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[City of Heroes Issue 23 to open Night Ward zone, end Praetorian War]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/city-of-heroes-issue-23-to-open-night-ward-zone-end-praetorian/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/city-of-heroes-issue-23-to-open-night-ward-zone-end-praetorian/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/city-of-heroes-issue-23-to-open-night-ward-zone-end-praetorian/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

City of Heroes
Issue 23's coming up for the caped villains and crusaders of City of Heroes -- the only question is who will survive when it finally arrives. Titled Where Shadows Lie, the update promises to bring an end to the Praetorian War arc, which has seen the demise of both Statesman and Sister Psyche and the emergence of Emperor Cole as the greatest threat the world has ever known. Players will soon be able to force a showdown with Diabolique in a new Magisterium Incarnate Trial.

The end of the Praetorian War isn't the only thing planned for Issue 23. Mid-range players will have a new stomping ground called the Night Ward to explore. Night Ward is a level 30 through 35 zone that lies between the worlds of the living and the dead and is host to vile creatures like Drudges, Black Knights, and Animus Arcana.

Other goodies on tap include a global LFG channel for all players, an interdimensional portal system for fast travel, and a new signature story arc series, costumes, and powers for VIP players.

MassivelyCity of Heroes Issue 23 to open Night Ward zone, end Praetorian War originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescohcovcoxf2pfree-to-playglobal-lfgissue-23lfgMagisterium-Incarnate-Trialncsoftnight-wardparagonparagon-studiospatchpraetorian-warsuperheroupdatewhere-shadows-lieThu, 12 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

rift fishing
One of the parts of the recent RIFT producer's letter that caught my eye was the hint that there will soon be more to do in game besides "stab" stuff. Maybe I'm mellowing in my old age, or perhaps it's because of my inner Bartle explorer player-type, but I'm enjoying activities in MMOs that don't involve mass slaughter all the time. Usually, that means crafting, but the inventory management that's required often leaves me cross-eyed by the time I'm done.

With Update 1.8, RIFT will add two new skills to the game: fishing and survival. Non-combat activities have already been introduced in past updates, like the wedding instance, but these two new skills look to be fun games within the game, so I was eager to check things out. Join me as I don some hip-waders, pack up some flint, and head to PTS for a peek at fishing, survival, and a quick peek at the looking-for-guild tool.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin'

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin' originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingenter-at-your-own-riftfantasyfeaturedfishingkaren-bryanlfglooking-for-guildopinionpatchpatchespreviewpreviewsriftrift-fishingrift-looking-for-guild-windowrift-planes-of-telararift-survivalsurvivaltelaratriontrion-worldsWed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Does SWTOR need a better LFG tool?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/the-guild-counsel-does-swtor-need-a-better-lfg-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/the-guild-counsel-does-swtor-need-a-better-lfg-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/the-guild-counsel-does-swtor-need-a-better-lfg-tool/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

swtor
Often, this column has focused on guilds and communities in MMOs, both the good and the bad. With the launch of Star Wars: The Old Republic, it's interesting to look at the ways in which a community is slowly gelling on each server. Already there are players I'm bumping into more and more often, and while I tend to huddle around guildies most of the time, I find that I enjoy things much more when I'm surrounded by a good community of players.

There's already been a lively discussion among SWTOR fans about whether the current LFG tool is good enough or something more is needed. Do we need something more "meaty" to help do the job of grouping for us or not? Read on for some pros and cons, and weigh in on whether more is needed to help bring the community closer.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Does SWTOR need a better LFG tool?

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Does SWTOR need a better LFG tool? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredungeon-findereaelectronic-artsfeaturedgroupinggroupsguild-counselguild-managementguildsinstance-finderkaren-bryanlfglfg-toollooking-for-grouplucasartsopinionsci-fistar+wars+the+old+republicstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarwarstheoldrepublicswtorswtor+lfgswtor+newsswtor-dungeon-finderswtor-lfg-toolswtorlfgswtornewsthe+old+republicthe-old-republictheoldrepublictorThu, 29 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Finally 50]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/enter-at-your-own-rift-finally-50/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/enter-at-your-own-rift-finally-50/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/enter-at-your-own-rift-finally-50/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RIFT statue
As an MMO player, I'm generally behind the curve when it comes to leveling and cutting-edge content exploration. Pushing myself to level quickly is far less fun to me than taking my time and exploring all the nooks and crannies, and my available playtime is far less than it used to be. Ergo, while many of have been at the level cap for months and are either elite PvPers or Raiders of the Lost Hammerknell, I've just hit 50 this past week for the first time in RIFT.

In a way, being behind the curve is a blessing because others have gone before you and forged a path so that coming from behind is much easier. That said, I still felt overwhelmed when the final ding happened because my previously clear goals evaporated in a second. What do I do now? How do I gear up? What does one do at level 50, anyway?

Fortunately, I'm part of a guild that's full of seasoned 50s, not to mention that I'm friends with plenty of bloggers who were 50 when I was still in diapers. Metaphorically speaking, of course. Ahem. So for this week's Enter at Your Own Rift, I posited them this question: What do you and should you do when you hit 50 in the game? They came back to me with excellent responses that I'm now going to share with you.

PREPARE YOURSELF FOR IMMINENT KNOWLEDGE!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Finally 50

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Finally 50 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-tzronkowskicraftingdrowned-hallsenter-at-your-wn-riftepic-slantexpert-dungeonsexpert-riftfactionfeaturedferrelgeargearing-upgreenscales-blightlfglfg-toolmmo-reporternikaylaraid-riftreputationriftrunecrafterthe-fluff-factorthe-mmo-reportertier-1tier-2triontrion-worldswarfrontwarfrontsWed, 31 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: One-point-four]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/enter-at-your-own-rift-one-point-four/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/enter-at-your-own-rift-one-point-four/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/enter-at-your-own-rift-one-point-four/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Last week, Karen provided an excellent analysis on Trion Worlds' broad, eight-page State of the Game address as the company outlined its plans for the game's long-term future. This week, we're still going to cast our eyes to the present. As we wrap up the final phase of RIFT's Waves of Madness (how much fun is water bladder throwing, huh?) and raid guilds bang their way through Hammerknell, it's the time to revel in a brand-new content update: patch 1.4.

Yes, another patch. I think people are still in disbelief that Trion is able to pump out updates as rapidly as it has, and the current naysayer theory is that the company is merely polishing up content it wanted to get for launch but had to hold back for whatever reason. There's probably a kernel of truth to that, but it doesn't hold up from what we know. We know that Trion has parallel teams -- up to six of them -- working on live development, which includes world events and content updates. We know that some of the features we've seen in previous patches were a direct result of post-launch player feedback, so it can't all be capping off unfinished projects.

Say what you will, but from where I'm standing, Trion's putting its actions where its mouth is by continuing a hot-and-heavy updating streak without showing any signs of slowing down. It's smart, too; by providing faster updates than most MMOs on the market and giving players incentive to stay, return, and try the game for the first time, Trion's firming up its position as an MMO that's here to stay -- not one that's going to fold up shop when future titles hit.

So let's take a peek through the highlights of patch 1.4 as I offer my award-winning commentary on each of the points!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: One-point-four

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: One-point-four originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4chronicles-of-telaracommentarycrocnard-mountcross-server-lfgdrowned-hallsdungeon-runepic-quest-lineepic-storylinefeaturedintroductory-raidlegacy-of-the-fallenlfglooking-for-grouppatchpatch-1.4pugpvppvp-riftpvp-riftsraidriftstate-of-the-gamethe-drowned-hallsthe-water-sagatriontrion-worldsupdateupdate-schedulewarfrontwarfrontswater-sagawaves-of-madnessworld-pvpWed, 03 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's first State of the Game address floods players with news of the future [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/rifts-first-state-of-the-game-address-floods-players-with-news/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/rifts-first-state-of-the-game-address-floods-players-with-news/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/rifts-first-state-of-the-game-address-floods-players-with-news/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Trion Worlds has never been shy in talking about RIFT's upcoming content, especially considering how fast and furious said content's been flying down the pipe. However, the studio may have topped itself today as it gave its first State of the Game address, opening up about the title's history to date and both the near and far future of the team's plans.

It's difficult to try to summarize all of this news in a brief paragraph -- so we're not even going to try! Instead, Massively joined a number of other news outlets for a conference call with the RIFT team and Scott Hartsman to clarify all of the exciting content, fixes and features mentioned in this address.

So join us after the jump as we look at quality-of-life improvements, new types of rifts, vastly improved PvP experiences, solo dungeons, and something intriguing called "Instant Adventure."

Continue reading RIFT's first State of the Game address floods players with news of the future [Updated]

MassivelyRIFT's first State of the Game address floods players with news of the future [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-advancementchronicles-of-telaraescalationhigh-adventureinstant-adventurelfglfg-systemlfg-toolpatch-1.4planar-attunementplanar-attunement-treesplanesport-scionpreviewpvppvp-riftpvp-riftsriftriftsscarwood-reachscott-hartsmansolo-dungeonsstate-of-the-gamethe-chronicles-of-telaratriontrion-worldsupdateworld-pvpxpThu, 14 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT patch 1.4 arriving on test servers tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/rift-patch-1-4-arriving-on-test-servers-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/rift-patch-1-4-arriving-on-test-servers-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/rift-patch-1-4-arriving-on-test-servers-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

"The seas have not calmed here at Trion as we continue to bring you more to enjoy with each update," Trion Worlds' James Nichols writes. Why doth the seas continue to roil? Because RIFT's patch 1.4 is landing on test servers tomorrow, July 14th, at 6:00 p.m. EDT.

Patch 1.4 follows 1.3's Waves of Madness world event, Hammerknell raid and guild banks with even more high-profile goodies. Probably one of the most-requested features, the ability to look for groups across servers, will be part of the update. This will allow the LFG tool to draw from a wider range of potential dungeon runners.

Also included in the testing process is an alternative gameplay mode for the Whitefall Steppes PvP warfront. Players will have to collect and hold Sourcestone at their base to activate powerful rune cannons to obliterate the enemy.

Instructions on how to participate in RIFT's public test server can be found over at the site.

MassivelyRIFT patch 1.4 arriving on test servers tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4cross-server-lfgcross-shard-lfghammerknelljames-nicholslfglfg-toollooking-for-grouppatch-1.3patch-1.4public-test-serverpvpriftrift-planes-of-telarasourcestonetriontrion-worldswarfrontwaves-of-madnesswhitefall-steppesWed, 13 Jul 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: The no-quest challenge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-no-quest-challenge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-no-quest-challenge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-no-quest-challenge/#commentsFiled under: , ,

OK, I know you all probably want to talk about the news that addons are coming to RIFT, but the truth is that it's not that big of an issue for me. My feelings on addons are that I'm for them if they enhance the game and encourage player creativity, but I'm against them if they reduce players to mere statistics in the eyes of others (GearScore) or are absolutely necessary to tackle the game's content.

So if you feel passionate about this topic, I give you leave to vent more about it in the comments below, but as for me and mine, we're going to look at quests today. More specifically, not doing them.

Now, I generally like quests. They give me a feeling of accomplishment (as I am fond of checking off items from my to-do lists in real life), the stories are occasionally interesting, and they give nice boosts to leveling. But I've come to realize something interesting about RIFT that might run under the radar of most: Quests are superfluous to the game. Well, at the very least, they're optional and not the mandatory tasks that most modern MMOs make them out to be.

So I had a thought. What about playing RIFT without questing at all -- taking on a "no-quest challenge" of sorts? Is it not only possible but fun too? Hit the jump and we'll examine this from all the angles.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: The no-quest challenge

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: The no-quest challenge originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeonsenter-at-your-own-riftfeaturedfedexinstancesinvasionskill-ten-ratslfglfg-toolno-quest-challengeplanar-essencesplanaritepvpquestquestingquestsriftrift-planes-of-telarariftsrulesettriontrion-worldswarfrontwarfrontsworld-eventsworld-of-warcraftwowzone-wide-eventsWed, 08 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2011: EverQuest II's Dave Georgeson in 3-D]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-everquest-iis-dave-georgeson-in-3-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-everquest-iis-dave-georgeson-in-3-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/e3-2011-everquest-iis-dave-georgeson-in-3-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you're going to fly, why not fly with a little style -- and in 3-D? At E3, we were able to grab some facetime with Dave "Smokejumper" Georgeson, EverQuest II's executive producer, as he showed us the next dimension of MMO gameplay while we checked out some of the new aerial races in the game.

"We wanted to do a little more with the flying creatures than to go from Point A to Point B," Georgeson said, referencing EQII's aerial races. "So we put in these flying race courses, which is a good test ground for showing off 3-D."

It's one of those things that has to be seen to be believed. The 3-D effect while flying is, in a word, awesome. The user interface is up close, your character is somewhere in the middle, and the environment is in the background. The effect is very noticeable when you turn, which happens a lot while flying.

Hit the jump to hear more of Georgeson's thoughts on 3-D in EverQuest II as well as a get tantalizing sneak peek at the game's future!

Continue reading E3 2011: EverQuest II's Dave Georgeson in 3-D

MassivelyE3 2011: EverQuest II's Dave Georgeson in 3-D originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-daerial-racechildren-of-warclasscontent-updatedave-georgesondavid-georgesondungeon-findere3e3-2011eq2eqiieverquest-iiexpansionf2pfan-fairefeaturedflightfree-to-playfreeportglidersgugu-61interviewleaperslfgnew-classpeople-finderqeynossmokejumperWed, 08 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scott Hartsman: 'Happy customers stick around longer']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/scott-hartsman-happy-customers-stick-around-longer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/scott-hartsman-happy-customers-stick-around-longer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/scott-hartsman-happy-customers-stick-around-longer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

"Here's the overall philosophy behind all this: Happy customers stick around longer," Scott Hartsman said in an interview with Gamefront. "That's what we think. That's the beginning and end of it." It may seem like common sense, but for Hartsman and the team at Trion Worlds, it's a lesson they feel is easy to forget.

He cites this as the driving force behind one of the game's major upcoming changes: the ability to transfer characters between servers for free. Trion hopes that the character transfers will help friends connect without the obstacle of separate servers getting in their way. Hartsman said that the tech behind the transfer is impressive -- not to mention "instantaneous" from a customer standpoint.

Hartsman says that the team places a premium on talking frankly and frequently with players. If Trion doesn't always come across as perfect, he hopes that the company makes up for it with communication and sincerity: "We don't want to hide behind a big wall, and we don't want everything to come through a formal mouthpiece. I'd rather have us all out conversing with people and occasionally making a mistake here or there on the assumption that because we are talking to people more means that overall, things are going to be better."

The lengthy interview covers a wide range of pressing topics, from the "bumpy" River of Souls event to the LFG system and the free trial program.

MassivelyScott Hartsman: 'Happy customers stick around longer' originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-transfercharacter-transferscustomer-servicegamefronthappinesshappy-customersinterviewlfglfg-systemlfg-toolriftrift-planes-of-telarariver-of-soulsscott-hartsmanserver-transfertrialtriontrion-worldsTue, 07 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: The poor, lonely looking-for-group tool]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lost-pages-of-taborea-the-poor-lonely-looking-for-group-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lost-pages-of-taborea-the-poor-lonely-looking-for-group-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lost-pages-of-taborea-the-poor-lonely-looking-for-group-tool/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Karen's recent article about RIFT's new looking-for-group tool got me thinking about Runes of Magic's own LFG tool. It seems like such a nifty function, but it hardly ever gets used in RoM. It's such an interesting tool that I'm happy to see in the game, but it also seems to be better on paper than in practice. Part of the reason might be that it's slightly clumsy to use for the first time, which I'll get to a little later. LFG tools are one of those things that a lot of players ask for nowadays, but they only ever seem to be used minimally unless the devs attach incentives.

Let's turn caps-lock off, stop shouting in world chat, and take a closer look at RoM's LFG tool.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: The poor, lonely looking-for-group tool

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: The poor, lonely looking-for-group tool originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>application-boarddungeon-finderfeaturedfinding-groupsfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegroupinggrouping-mechanicsjeremy-strattonlfglfg-toollooking-for-grouplooking-for-group-toollost-pages-of-taboreapick-up-grouppick-up-groupspugpugsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentMon, 23 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT podcast celebrates the end with Scott Hartsman]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/rift-podcast-celebrates-the-end-with-scott-hartsman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/rift-podcast-celebrates-the-end-with-scott-hartsman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/rift-podcast-celebrates-the-end-with-scott-hartsman/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's a sad day for The RIFT podcast, as its latest episode, 42, will also be its last. It's not due to a lack of interest in the game, however, but rather to real-life health concerns. One of the hosts, Arithion, is extremely ill and apparently can't look at moving pictures on a screen for more than 10 minutes, making gaming impossible.

So the podcast creators decided to end the show on a high note, inviting Scott Hartsman and Cindy "Abigale" Bowens to join them for a candid interview about RIFT's future. Hartsman indicated that news about guild banks and character transfers is coming very soon, saying, "We have a slick little answer" for the latter. He also revealed that RIFT's Weather Cast summer ad campaign actually used real weatherpeople, and the fact that the company is continuing with television ads is a good indicator of how well the game is going.

The LFG tool has had a huge impact on the game, as Hartsman's seen "multiples" of increments of players diving into dungeons since it went into place. The team is hard at work tweaking the system to make it work perfectly.

While The RIFT Podcast is riding into the sunset, there's always hope. "Forty-two doesn't have to be the end," host Desikis said. "Who knows, there might be a comeback!"

MassivelyRIFT podcast celebrates the end with Scott Hartsman originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 May 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abigalecharacter-transferscindy-bowensdungeonsguild-bankshealth-concernsinterviewlfglfg-systemlfg-toolpodcastriftrift-podcastscott-hartsmanthe-rift-podcasttriontrion-worldsweather-castMon, 23 May 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's Spoils of War update deploys]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/rifts-spoils-of-war-update-deploys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/rifts-spoils-of-war-update-deploys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/rifts-spoils-of-war-update-deploys/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's a heady day for RIFTers as Trion Worlds has released the game's second major update. Titled Spoils of War, patch 1.2 includes several exciting additions to the game, most notably a Looking for Group tool, a cosmetic appearance system, and 10-man raid Slivers. The LFG interface will also offer daily dungeon quests with increased rewards as incentives to boost instance runs.

The full patch notes are up over on the RIFT forums, and they're a doozy to read (but one has to have some way to pass the time while the game updates, right?). In addition to the headlining features, there is a metric ton of changes, tweaks and sparkling gems to absorb. Spoils of War will make the game's expert dungeons more attractive to run, and players who love tinkering with RIFT's soul system should rejoice at the addition of a fifth role. Trion's also added a lot more love for social media with increased integration between the game and Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Tumblr.

There's really too much to cover in a few brief paragraphs, so after you read the patch notes, make sure to check out our larger coverage of this impressive update from a couple of weeks ago! If you haven't had a chance to get your hands on RIFT, Trion's also launched its seven-day free trial and Ascend-a-Friend programs for one and all.

MassivelyRIFT's Spoils of War update deploys originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-man-raid10-person-raidappearance-systemcosmetic-outfitcosmetic-systemexpert-dungeonsfacebooklfglfg-interfacelfg-toollooking-for-grouppatch-1.2riftrift-planes-of-telararolerolessliverssoul-systemspoils-of-wartriontrion-worldstumblrtwitterupdate-1.2wardrobewardrobe-systemyoutubeTue, 10 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: As the Forts Turn]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/wings-over-atreia-as-the-forts-turn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/wings-over-atreia-as-the-forts-turn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/wings-over-atreia-as-the-forts-turn/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Today's episode is brought to you by the letter QQ.

The remnants of battle could be seen wafting in the currents of the Abyss -- feathers both dark and light tumbling about. The victors shouted, drunk on the energy of conquest. The defeated limped off the battlefield, returning home to mend their wounds. Meanwhile, safely back in town, eyes glance at the chat box...

"OMG!1! We lost our fort! The world is ending, there is nothing for me to live for -- I am canceling my subscription!" Speedylips throws herself to the floor, body convulsing with sobs as she cries out in utter agony at the unfairness, the pure torture of it all, while all around her others are kicking and screaming. "WAAHHHHHH!"*

Not to be confused with Warhammer Online's trademark cry of battle "Waaaaaaggghhh," this cry* is the sound of desperation among the Daevas of Aion. Or -- in truer words -- infantile tantrums. Yes, tantrums. What else would you call it when people bemoan the change of fort ownership with vicious verbal attacks on others, excessive blame-placing, and numerous announcements of quitting that scroll by in LFG so quickly your head spins trying to catch the actual snippets of relevant chat? Yet this is the common sight whenever one faction starts losing some Abyss real estate to the enemy. And to be perfectly honest, I don't get it. In a game that is built on the give and take of battle, why do people get so put out when they suffer a setback? This is exactly what Aion needs to thrive.

I will admit, I cheer when the opposing faction turns out and succeeds in conquering a fortress. Why? Before you brand me a traitor, cut a swath past the cut and I will explain.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: As the Forts Turn

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: As the Forts Turn originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Abyssaionaion-gamedaevas-of-our-livesfeaturedfortsLFGnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpvppvpvesiegesiegestantrumtantrumswhiningWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 02 May 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's patch 1.2 moved to May 10th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/rifts-patch-1-2-moved-to-may-10th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/rifts-patch-1-2-moved-to-may-10th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/28/rifts-patch-1-2-moved-to-may-10th/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Don't break out the updater just yet, RIFT fans -- we've learned that you are going to have to wait a little bit longer to get your hands on the game's second big update. Patch 1.2, which was tentatively scheduled for a May 4th release, has been moved back to the 10th.

Trion Worlds let us know that the patch is still being "polished, tweaked and perfected," and as such the team needs additional time to get it ready.

When we talked with Scott Hartsman a week ago about the update, he made sure to mention that all of the details about RIFT's content patch, including the date, weren't set in stone. Patch 1.2 will contain additional endgame content, the wardrobe system, and a new Looking for Group tool.

MassivelyRIFT's patch 1.2 moved to May 10th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.2content-patchcontent-updateendgamelfglooking-for-grouppatchpatch-1.2riftrift-planes-of-telarascott-hartsmantriontrion-worldsupdateupdate-1.2wardrobeThu, 28 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Looking for groups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/enter-at-your-own-rift-looking-for-groups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/enter-at-your-own-rift-looking-for-groups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/enter-at-your-own-rift-looking-for-groups/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Like some of you, I feel that RIFT's Update 1.2 can't get here soon enough. A good content update, in my opinion, has a little something for everyone, and in talking with Trion Worlds last week, I definitely got that feeling from this patch. The team is catering to endgame players with Slivers, build-enthusiasts with a fifth role, rift-runners with new types of dynamic events, and people who aren't content to merely spam my Twitter feed with accomplishments but must now do so from inside Facebook as well.

I'd be lying if I said I'm not planning on spending huge amounts of time assembling dashing and fashionable outfits for my characters once the wardrobe is in the game, too. I'm all about outfits in Lord of the Rings Online, so it's great to see RIFT bring this type of system into the game (unlike some other stubborn studios, which shall remain nameless). Players like to feel powerful while looking incredible, and this outfit system will hopefully allay some of the complaints of similar-looking toons.

Above all this in Update 1.2 towers one of the biggest changes to the game yet: the Looking for Group (LFG) tool. Designed to assemble teams of players to tackle dungeons and group quests, the LFG tool will certainly change how we play RIFT. Will it be a good change or bad? That's the $1,000,000 question, which I will tackle after these brief messages, by which I mean, "after the jump."

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Looking for groups

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Looking for groups originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archonbarddpsdungeon-finderdungeonsdynamic-contententer-at-your-own-riftfacebookfeaturedhealerinstanceslfdlfglooking-for-dungeonlooking-for-grouplord-of-the-rings-onlinelotropros-and-conspvpriftrift-planes-of-telarariftssliverssupporttanktriontrion-worldstwitterwardrobewarfrontsworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 27 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2011: Delving LotRO dungeons deeply]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/pax-east-2011-delving-lotro-dungeons-deeply/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/pax-east-2011-delving-lotro-dungeons-deeply/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/pax-east-2011-delving-lotro-dungeons-deeply/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Right now, Lord of the Rings Online is in a brief respite between the insanity of PAX East and the upcoming March 21st release date for its next big update, Echoes of the Dead. To say that there's a lot coming with this update is a vast understatement, so it was great to get a sneak peek at the five new instances before they went live.

Earlier this year, players started to get rumblings about a major upcoming event as five mysterious relics popped up all over Middle-earth in Evendim, Forochel, Enedwaith, North Downs and the Trollshaws. By finding all five, players completed a special deed and got the title "Calm Before the Storm," foreshadowing dire events to follow. All anyone could do after that was prepare for an uncertain future.

It turns out that LotRO's players had good reason to prepare, because as of next week, five new dungeons will open their doors for business -- the business of eating adventurers alive and spitting out their bones, that is. Spurned Gaunt-lords have returned to make life for the Free Peoples of Middle-earth harder by transforming the very landscape into their hellish domain, and it's up to you to thwart their schemes.

Hit the jump as we traveled to these new instances at PAX East with LotRO Executive Producer Kate Paiz!

Continue reading PAX East 2011: Delving LotRO dungeons deeply

MassivelyPAX East 2011: Delving LotRO dungeons deeply originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alienscannibalechoes-of-the-deadenedwaithevendimfacehuggersfeaturedforochelgaunt-lordshobbitskate-paizLegbathillfflfglooking-for-fellowshiplooking-for-grouplord-of-the-rings-onlinelost-templelotromaggotsnorth-cottonfarmsnorth-downsOst-Dunhothpaxpax-2011pax-eastpax-east-2011sari-surmaspider-hobbitspidersstoneheightthe-shiretrollshawsturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 15 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Feeding trolls]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/wings-over-atreia-feeding-trolls/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/wings-over-atreia-feeding-trolls/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/wings-over-atreia-feeding-trolls/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

"WoW was the first MMO."
"WTF you --------- [bless the filter]."
"Your mom just left here."

Channel /3 will be the death of me. Or perhaps just my sanity. If not, then it may be the cause of some random homicides soon.

Although I had another topic all planned out (and already mostly penned), I had an about-face for this week's article. This subject is something that is always on the edge of my mind, and as of late, it has been more front and center. In fact, this week has seen discussions on the matter with friends, colleagues, legion-mates, and even my munchkins. The hot topic? Trolls.

Aion players know that /3 is the LFG (looking for group) channel, and occasionally you can actually find people looking for groups there! However, because it is the only server-wide channel, people mostly use it for any type of random chatter. And by chatter, I mean a range of sexual comments, preening, raging, and flat-out trolling. Granted, sometimes following along with /3 chatter is simply amusing, but oftentimes it becomes annoying or even outright offensive. In any case, it's hard to pick out anything of value through the fast-paced spam.

Now don't get me wrong; I am all for quips and banter and building a community, but it seems that the folks with any amount of consideration and class stay quiet for the most part. If we were to judge society off of universal chat channels, I think I would be all for large-scale nuclear annihilation; people treat others in virtual worlds like they wouldn't dream of vis-à-vis. Why is that? And what can we do to increase civility, decrease trolling, and improve gaming experiences overall?

Cross the bridge (don't stop to feed the trolls!) to explore these points with me and share some amusing trolling moments from your server! (Please keep it clean folks!)

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Feeding trolls

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Feeding trolls originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gameblock-listdramafeaturedglobal-chatlfglfg-channellfgchannellooking-for-groupnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aiontrolltrollsvirtual-worldsWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 24 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: My wish list for 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/the-road-to-mordor-my-wish-list-for-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/the-road-to-mordor-my-wish-list-for-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/14/the-road-to-mordor-my-wish-list-for-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

January is always a month of denial for me because it usually takes a full 30 days for the reality of a new year to settle into my skull. It can't be a new year! I just, just got used to the old one! I'm going to forget the real year when I sign my checks and then I'll be denounced as a fraud! What horrible teenage fad will be inflicted on us this year?

Seriously, Ke$ha was the final straw for me. She's like all four horsemen of the apocalypse melted down and recast as a talentless banshee with an ironic dollar sign smack in the middle of her name. But that's my problem.

A new year also means a virgin slate for all of our MMOs. What happened last year was so last year -- now we turn our eyes to the future. We know a little of what's upcoming for Lord of the Rings Online, but that doesn't mean we can't have wishes. You know what they say: If wishes were horses, I'd have the Steed of Night.

So in honor of '11, I've come up with an 11-point wish list of what I'd love to see in LotRO this year. I fully expect Turbine to drop everything -- everything -- to get on it!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: My wish list for 2011

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: My wish list for 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011a-casual-stroll-to-mordorcosmetic-outfitcosmetic-weaponsfeaturedhobbithousingiconsinstance-joinitem-storekeshalegendary-itemslegendary-weaponslfflfglilooking-for-fellowshiplord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-storemiddle-earthnew-yearpiesplayer-housingsteed-of-nightthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentturbine-pointsuiuser-interfacevovoice-overvolume-2wardrobewish-listWorld-of-WarcraftFri, 14 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT beta powow with Scott Hartsman]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/rift-beta-powow-with-scott-hartsman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/rift-beta-powow-with-scott-hartsman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/rift-beta-powow-with-scott-hartsman/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This is, by any measure, a busy week for RIFT. Fresh off the second beta event, Trion Worlds has dropped the NDA for the game and announced a third beta to take place over the holidays. As the process speeds exponentially faster toward launch, Scott Hartsman and his team have a white-knuckled grip on RIFT for all the bumps, shimmies, dips and hills that such a high-profile title offers.

Even with a heaping amount of work on its plate, the team has been willing to share its passion for RIFT with the press and community. During this slight lull between betas two and three, Hartsman sat down with us over the phone to jaw about lessons learned from the beta, why Trion has dropped the NDA, how RIFT's already made history, and when we might be seeing this game on the shelves.

Hit the jump and let's do this thing. As Hartsman is fond of saying about the game, "S**t just got real."

Continue reading RIFT beta powow with Scott Hartsman

MassivelyRIFT beta powow with Scott Hartsman originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artifactsbetabeta-eventbeta-onebeta-threebeta-twocharacter-wipecollectionsdirectxdungeonsexpert-dungeonsfeaturedin-game-eventinstancesinterviewinvasioninvasionsiron-tomblfglfg-toolndanon-disclosure-agreementoptimizationprince-hylas-aelfwarquicksilver-collegerealm-of-the-faeriftrift-planes-of-telarariftssanctumscott-hartsmansilverwood-foresttriontrion-worldswysiwygzone-wide-invasionsWed, 22 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: Grouping basics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/lost-pages-of-taborea-grouping-basics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/lost-pages-of-taborea-grouping-basics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/lost-pages-of-taborea-grouping-basics/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

This week, I've been thinking a lot about Runes of Magic's ability to cater to players with different MMO backgrounds. Many players may never have played a subscription game from the West, while others may never have experienced the different mechanics found in Eastern F2P MMOs. What you get is a banquet of food and all the guests aren't sure of the proper etiquette or rules or when it's time to eat. If we stick with a food analogy, the group feature would be a main dish.

Lots of F2P MMOs have been imported from the East, and they don't handle grouping in quite the same way as Western subscription-based games. In fact, the ideas of raiding, pick-up-groups, and instances that can be found in almost any Western MMO, don't exist in most F2P games. This article takes a look at some specifics of grouping in RoM, including the recruitment board, experience debt, looking for a group, and etiquette.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Grouping basics

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Grouping basics originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>etiquettefeaturedfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegroupinggroupslfglooking-for-grouplootloot-rollingloot-rollspartypick-up-grouppugpuggingraidraidingrecruitment-boardromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentteleportteleport-runeworld-chatzone-chatMon, 02 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LFG Expo postponed until next year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/lfg-expo-postponed-until-next-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/lfg-expo-postponed-until-next-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/lfg-expo-postponed-until-next-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In the midst of one of this year's biggest shows, a fledging expo later this month has decided to postpone their own event. The LFG Expo, which promises to be an MMO-focused event for developers and fans alike, has announced that they are postponing their first event. Previously scheduled for later this month, it's now scheduled for... next year. Eventually. The only concrete information is that the organizers are aiming at sometime during 2011, which is quite some distance in the future.

Readers may remember that we held a ticket giveaway not so long ago for the expo. As of yet, there's no word from the organizers regarding tickets and attendance. Officially, the schedule was moved to secure better developer support, although it's a rather vague statement. Quite possibly the show's close proximity to E3 worked against its developer attendance, but without more official word, all we can do is wait and see what happens next. With any luck, this is simply a minor setback in the LFG Expo's progress.

MassivelyLFG Expo postponed until next year originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaydeveloper-supportlfglfg-expommo-industrynewspostponedscheduleschedulesTue, 15 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a ticket to the LFG Expo from Massively [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/win-a-ticket-to-the-lfg-expo-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/win-a-ticket-to-the-lfg-expo-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/win-a-ticket-to-the-lfg-expo-from-massively/#commentsFiled under: ,

As we reported earlier in the week, the LFG Expo has opened registration for their inaugural event to be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota from June 25th through the 27th. This MMO-exclusive expo bills itself as the "ultimate MMO fan experience offering wall to wall activities, contests, events and adventures! "

If this sounds like something you might be interested in, we'd like to help sweeten the deal by offering 100 free 3-day passes to our readers. Plus, whether you win a ticket in the contest or not, we're also looking for someone to write about their experiences at the expo. Follow along after the jump for more details.

Continue reading Win a ticket to the LFG Expo from Massively [Updated]

MassivelyWin a ticket to the LFG Expo from Massively [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>giveawayslfglfg-expolfg-expo-2010Fri, 02 Apr 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LFG MMO Developer Awards Nominations Begin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/lfg-mmo-developer-awards-nominations-begin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/lfg-mmo-developer-awards-nominations-begin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/lfg-mmo-developer-awards-nominations-begin/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Looking For Group Expo is coming to Minneapolis this June, and the MMO Developer Awards will be a big part of the event. These awards give the behind-the-scenes talent a chance to shine and be recognized for what they do.

Ten categories will be covered in these awards, including a few not related to MMOs such as Best Web Comic and Best Offline Game. Of course, the primary focus will be on MMO gaming with categories such as MMO of the Year, Outstanding New Content, Best Cinematic, and Best Game Design, to name a few. Do you think your favorite MMO is a shoo-in for one of the categories? Nominations for the awards come straight from the fans, so this is your chance to make your voice heard. From now until April 30th, LFG will be accepting nominations for all categories via partner sites. The top five nominees in each category will go before the judges, and they'll announce the winners at LFGX on June 26th. Check out LFG's MMO Developer Awards page for the details.

MassivelyLFG MMO Developer Awards Nominations Begin originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lfglfg-expolfg-expo-2010MMO-developer-awardsTue, 09 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Looking For Group: An expo for MMOers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/looking-for-group-an-expo-for-mmoers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/looking-for-group-an-expo-for-mmoers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/11/looking-for-group-an-expo-for-mmoers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you don't have Minneapolis on your places to visit list, you might want to add it now. The city will play host to the first annual "Looking For Group Expo," a convention dedicated solely to MMOs and everything that surrounds them.

While details are sparse and the website is even more barren, LFG is being put together by Last Straw Productions, the gang behind the Independent Game Developers Conference, which is going on their fourth year. Last Straw is also no stranger to MMOs, as they're currently working on their first MMO game, Forbidden Planet.

The motivation behind the event is to provide to all MMOs what some MMOs have now -- a special convention that's designed just for them. We all can't be Blizzard or SOE, after all.

LFG is currently scheduled for June 25th through the 27th, putting it on the last weekend of June.

MassivelyLooking For Group: An expo for MMOers originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conventionsexpoforbidden-planetigdcindependent-game-developers-conferencelast-straw-productionslfglfg-expolooking-for-group-expominneapolisFri, 11 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Starting out in Vana'diel: Community, controls and cooperation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/starting-out-in-vanadiel-community-controls-and-cooperation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/starting-out-in-vanadiel-community-controls-and-cooperation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/starting-out-in-vanadiel-community-controls-and-cooperation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Hello there adventurers! It's Thursday, and that means more tips for those of you who are new to Vana'diel.

This time around we have some less documented topics to talk about -- the controls of Final Fantasy XI, how to get into groups and how to run groups, and answer one of the questions presented by reader Green Armadillo in last column's comment area.

I know these topics may seem weird for a recurring feature that is suppose to be a guide to starting out in Final Fantasy XI. You would think I would be tackling more game play issues or tips on how to level. However, these topics play right into getting the most out of your FFXI experience. Knowing these things is going to help you tremendously in Vana'diel, so let's stop talking about it and get down into it.

Continue reading Starting out in Vana'diel: Community, controls and cooperation

MassivelyStarting out in Vana'diel: Community, controls and cooperation originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction-housecommunitycontrollercontrolsfeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xigroupinggroupsguidehigh-qualityhq-itemsjoystiqfeatureslfgpcplayonlineps2soulboundsquare-enixstarting-out-in-vanadielusbusb-controllervanadielThu, 19 Mar 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOGology: Looking for incentive to group]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/mmogology-looking-for-incentive-to-group/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/mmogology-looking-for-incentive-to-group/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/mmogology-looking-for-incentive-to-group/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



In a post-World of Warcraft world the concept of grouping while leveling has changed. Where grouping was once essential to survival in MMOGs, today it's an optional extra. As a result, leveling up can feel pretty lonely. In most MMOGs it's no longer necessary to group unless you're running an instanced dungeon or the rare quest geared toward a specific number of players. While I love the fact that I can play WoW on my own terms and my own schedule I feel like I'm missing out on the whole "massively multiplayer" thing. Isn't that the reason we play MMOGs to begin with? Why should we wait until end-game raid content to play together?

Most people don't group while leveling because there's no real incentive to group. Soloing nets you more XP than grouping and most of the content is easy to take on by yourself. There's no waiting around for others, no sharing of loot, and no arguing about what to do when. So why bother? I'd like to see developers provide players with more incentive to level up together. In my opinion, MMOGs should always work to increase entertainment value when players work together. Read on to explore ways to achieve that objective.

Continue reading MMOGology: Looking for incentive to group

MassivelyMMOGology: Looking for incentive to group originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardfeaturedgroupinggroupsjoystiqfeatureslevelinglfgsoloingworld-of-warcraftMon, 05 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars Galaxies' looking for group improvements previewed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/star-wars-galaxies-looking-for-group-improvements-previewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/star-wars-galaxies-looking-for-group-improvements-previewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/star-wars-galaxies-looking-for-group-improvements-previewed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Posts to the official Star Wars Galaxies forums have noted that Game Update 4 will be released during the upcoming week; very welcome news for Officers, Smugglers, and especially Commandos. There's more goodness coming to the game beyond next week, though. The official site looks to the primary feature of Chapter 10 in this week's Friday Feature. The new and improved SWG group search tool is a concerted effort by the developers to solve the game's pressing population issue. Check out the accompanying forum post for hints at the community's reaction.

The new search functionality, which will extend galaxy-wide to reach as many players as possible, has numerous selectable criteria. On the individual player's side, there are several ways of advertising your interests. The role you want to play in a group, what kind of group you're looking for, even the possibility of gathering for social situations are all covered by the tool. The previous LFG tool had numerous drawbacks, including a limited range and now-useless search criteria. When actively searching for new group members, the tool offers a similar range of options. Professions, level ranges, and interest are all tweakable by the group leader. Pure utility, but interesting nonetheless.

MassivelyStar Wars Galaxies' looking for group improvements previewed originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 May 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lfglucasartssoesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesswgswg-chapter-10swg-game-update-4Sun, 25 May 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Losing influence with SOE: EQ2 Flames admin "LFG" tells all]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/losing-influence-with-soe-eq2-flames-admin-lfg-tells-all/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/losing-influence-with-soe-eq2-flames-admin-lfg-tells-all/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/18/losing-influence-with-soe-eq2-flames-admin-lfg-tells-all/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


He is an EverQuest 2 player that rose to power leading one of the largest fansite communities. He earned the esteemed "Community Influencer" rank that opened the gates to game designers and allowed him to forge ties with prominent SOE staff. With his connections it wasn't long before the site he administrates, EQ2 Flames, served as a clandestine outlet for EQ2 developers to post on. Behind the scenes "LFG" played a role working with inside sources to leak information that resulted in the EQ2 Test Server scandal. The forum also resulted in leak of the news (almost a month before it actually happened) that former Senior Producer, Scott Hartsman, was to part ways with Sony Online Entertainment.

His actions wouldn't come without serious ramifications. Last week SOE terminated his "Influencer" membership, citing a lack of participation and misconduct as the reasoning behind their decision. In the destructive wake that followed an ugly entanglement by both SOE developers and EQ2 players has surfaced. Allegations of cheating, developer corruption, and other scuttlebutt permeate forum posts. This is a drama that pits community against community, developers against players, and more than likely developers against developers. It is a story that has shaken up a very large community and that has once placed SOE in a questionable spotlight. I contacted "LFG", the EQ2 Flames administrator, to help bring some clarity to it all.

In the interview below several allegations involving SOE employees are levied. These along with other accusations on EQ2 Flames also raise other questions regarding SOE's internal policies. At the time of this posting SOE's community team had not yet responded with an official comment. When SOE does respond we will post it in full.

Continue reading Losing influence with SOE: EQ2 Flames admin "LFG" tells all

MassivelyLosing influence with SOE: EQ2 Flames admin "LFG" tells all originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Mar 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-crosbybrenlocraig-dalrympleeq2eq2-flameseq2flamesethical-conductfeaturedgaellnitegrimwelllfgscandalscott-hartsmansoesony-online-entertainmentTue, 18 Mar 2008 11:30:00 EST