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[Rise and Shiny: Threshold RPG]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/rise-and-shiny-threshold-rpg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/rise-and-shiny-threshold-rpg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/rise-and-shiny-threshold-rpg/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Threshold RPG screenshot
It's the third week in a row I have decided to spend with a MUD, or multi-user-dungeon. I've explained it before, but in case you are not familiar, a MUD is a text-based MMO. That's right: you play by typing commands and exploring environments, all in text form. I started this exploration with Gemstone IV, an amazing MUD that seems to be the gold standard for MUDs. I am still playing it and finding out how amazing it is. I moved on to BatMUD, a slightly more basic MUD that offered a great client but frustrated me. Honestly though, my time with BatMUD was a little unfair and I need to revisit the game. It really has some wonderful elements.

Now that I have moved on to Threshold RPG, another ancient MUD from before the time of mostly graphical MMOs, I feel as though I have finally reached an understanding as to how MUDs work and what makes them incredible adventures still to this day.

Threshold is more basic than all of them so far, but that's a good thing in many ways. There's also a lot that is lacking, and several tweaks that need to be made.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Threshold RPG

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Threshold RPG originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfrogdicehands-onlivestreammassively-tvmudmulti-user-dungeonrise-and-shinystreamthe-pride-of-taernthresholdthreshold-rpgthresholdrpgtwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 27 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: May 21 - 27, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/mv-guide-may-21-27-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/mv-guide-may-21-27-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/mv-guide-may-21-27-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EverQuest II
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively Stream Team logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises each week, so you'll find a variety of titles to watch. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, or simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule, and let us know if there's a specific game you'd like to see streamed next week!

Continue reading MV Guide: May 21 - 27, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: May 21 - 27, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 21 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: BatMUD]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/rise-and-shiny-batmud/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/rise-and-shiny-batmud/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/rise-and-shiny-batmud/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

BatMUD UI screenshot
Here I am making myself crazy once again. Why? Why do I insist on visiting games that I know will provoke issues both physical and mental? I guess it's because lately I have been fascinated with MUDs, or multi-user-dungeons. They are better described as text-based MMOs or choose-your-own-adventure books written with thousands of other players. It's a fascinating concept, especially when you consider how dissimilar it is to today's modern, easy-to-play offerings. The ancient design of the MUD now feels fresh, so much so that I have decided to dedicate a future article about the possibility of MUDs' viability in today's three-dimensional world.

I have found some good and some very bad over the last several weeks. I've also stumbled across brand-new versions of the migraines that often bother me when I concentrate way, way too hard on PC text. I have to admit that my issues do not seem that common, but it is important to look at a game from all angles, even from the angle of someone who has specific issues. BatMUD has tested my patience over the last few weeks and several hours. It's also shown me some wonderful adventure and sparked my imagination.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: BatMUD

MassivelyRise and Shiny: BatMUD originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatMUDbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onlivestreammassively-tvmudmulti-user-dungeonrise-and-shinystreamthreshold-rpgtwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 20 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: May 14 - 20, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/mv-guide-may-14-20-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/mv-guide-may-14-20-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/mv-guide-may-14-20-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lord of the Rings Online - The Shire
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively Stream Team logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises each week, so you'll find a variety of titles to watch. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, or simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule, and let us know if there's a specific game you'd like to see streamed next week!

Continue reading MV Guide: May 14 - 20, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: May 14 - 20, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 14 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Dark Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Legends screenshot
Dark Legends, the new title from mobile MMO king Spacetime Studios, is already creating a buzz with its liberal use of an energy pool that is sapped as players go through standard gameplay. If this mechanic were packaged any differently and inside a sandbox, it's possible that people would call it "realistic" or "hardcore." Unfortunately, problems set in as soon as players realized that playing the game for hours on end would require some infusion of real-life funds or the ability to kill pretty large chunks of time in non-combat areas.

I would argue that the gameplay does not have to be designed for marathon gaming sessions. It's very possible that the "casual" part of the game's description actually means "casual." I still had issues with the mechanic; don't get me wrong. But if I was bothered by anything it would be Dark Legends' lack of borrowing features from Pocket Legends, Spacetime's flagship mobile MMO, which offers actual persistent areas and other MMO staples.

Of course, it's possible that Spacetime is simply trying something new. Heaven forbid it should attempt a new design!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Dark Legends

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Dark Legends originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatMUDbeau-hindmanBioWareccpdark-legendseve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onlivestreammassively-tvmudrise-and-shinyspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamswtortwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 13 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: May 7 - 13, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/mv-guide-may-7-13-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/mv-guide-may-7-13-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/mv-guide-may-7-13-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EVE Online
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: May 7 - 13, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: May 7 - 13, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 07 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Looking back on two years and making changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/rise-and-shiny-looking-back-at-two-years-and-a-change-of-order/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/rise-and-shiny-looking-back-at-two-years-and-a-change-of-order/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/rise-and-shiny-looking-back-at-two-years-and-a-change-of-order/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
This column will turn two years old on May 8th, 2012. I'm proud of not only the fact that I have been able keep up the column with a decent amount of content and writing that has slowly gotten better over that time but also the fact that I have introduced the readers of Massively to so many games that they wouldn't otherwise have known about. Recently, I have increased my efforts by streaming odd and indie games as well as writing about the relatively new world of mobile MMOs.

This might all seem like I am attempting to build some sort of indie hipster street cred, but the totally honest truth is that nothing thrills me more than exposing a new game to the world or giving an older game some much-needed sunlight. If someone posts, "This game is still around?" in the comments section, I call that a win.

From now on, I am going to tweak how I do things for Rise and Shiny in order to raise the quality of coverage. Let me explain how as well as give you a few figures to illustrate just how many titles I have covered.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Looking back on two years and making changes

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Looking back on two years and making changes originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onLiveStreammabinogimassively-tvmassivelytvmilmomvtvrise-and-shinystreamstreamingtwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvtwo-year-anniversaryvideozentiaSun, 06 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: The perils of passive gaming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-soapbox-the-perils-of-passive-gaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-soapbox-the-perils-of-passive-gaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-soapbox-the-perils-of-passive-gaming/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Couch potato cat
Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

My folks don't really understand my infatuation with video games (and MMORPGs in particular). "How can you sit there and play a game for two or three hours at a time?" my mom is fond of asking. Ironically, this usually happens on a visit that ends where most of our visits do: on the couch in front of the television.

Don't get me wrong; she's no couch potato, and in fact she has the meanest green thumb you'll ever see. When the sun goes down, though, my parents (like most of their generation, I'll wager) park their butts in front of the TV. That I should park my own posterior in front of the computer is exceedingly strange to them even though online gaming is to the 21st century what television was to the 20th.

I wonder, though, if games are starting to become more passive forms of TV-like entertainment.

Continue reading The Soapbox: The perils of passive gaming

MassivelyThe Soapbox: The perils of passive gaming originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchallengecomplexitycouch-potatoeditorialeqeq1everquestf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgames-vs-tvhardcorehardcore-vs-casualinteractivitylets-playlivestreamlivestreamingmmo-industryop-edopinionpassivepassive-consumptionpassive-gamingpassive-vs-activepassivitypaying-to-skip-contentperils-of-passive-gamingrantrantsskipping-contentsoapboxsoapbox-jef-reahardsoesonysony-online-entertainmentthe-perils-of-passive-gamingthe-soapboxTue, 01 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Aion your way]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/wings-over-atreia-aion-your-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/wings-over-atreia-aion-your-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/wings-over-atreia-aion-your-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia
Though a recent catchphrase for Aion's conversion to the Truly Free model, having it "your way" ((R)[TM]BLT) predates NCsoft's usage. Burger joints and assassins for hire alike touted this business motto long before the game. So there is no real infringement if I borrow this philosophy and mold it to my own purposes. And mold it I will, like Playdoh on a hot summer's day.

Some of you may have noticed that I have been livestreaming on a weekly basis to help expand on the Aion experience. (If you haven't, it's never to late to watch!) The thing is, if we just follow my own personal playstyle, you might be stuck watching me rearrange furniture in my little condo for hours on end since I usually play however the mood strikes me at that moment. That's where you come in.

It's time to vicariously experience Aion your way! This week's Wings Over Atreia is all about getting to the heart of what you want. Then I can incorporate the things that you find interesting into the livestreams and even the weekly articles. How shall we accomplish this? Well, although it seems some of you have been able to resist the lure of the spiffy tag at the end of every column that asks for reader suggestions, how many of you can resist... *dramatic music* The Poll? So quick and simple, just a few clicks...

If you ever wanted to tell me where to go, now is your chance.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Aion your way

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Aion your way originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aioncmaf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onlivestreamLiveStreamingncsoftopinionpollpollsreaders-choicevotevotingwings-over-atreiaMon, 30 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: April 30 - May 6, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/mv-guide-april-30-may-6-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/mv-guide-april-30-may-6-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/mv-guide-april-30-may-6-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Image
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: April 30 - May 6, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: April 30 - May 6, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 30 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Gemstone IV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/rise-and-shiny-gemstone-iv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/rise-and-shiny-gemstone-iv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/rise-and-shiny-gemstone-iv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gemstone IV screenshot with map
This article was a long time coming. Not only have I avoided taking a look at any sort of pure MUD for many years, but I meant to write this up last week but real life interrupted my plans. I just didn't think it was fair to write up a first impressions based on only a few hours of play. I was quite hesitant to take a deeper look at Gemstone IV mainly because I knew that the non-stop reading would surely create more migraines that might derail my work again. I was very worried, actually.

Luckily, the Gemstone IV client is customizable enough to allow me to create a "book-style" experience: black text on a white background. I don't think I'm alone in my inability to view bright, colored text on a dark background comfortably. If I were, popular websites would still look like they were from 1996. We've moved past ugly fonts and horrible color combinations.

Unfortunately it took me most of the time with Gemstone IV just to learn how to play, make the text comfortable to read, and understand what my character was supposed to be doing. Once I got comfortable, though, I honestly had one of the most enchanting times in a game yet.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Gemstone IV

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Gemstone IV originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetArena-Netarenanetbeau-hindmandark-legendsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgemstone-ivGuild-Wars-2hands-onLiveStreammassively-tvmudmulti-user-dungeonriftrise-and-shinyspacetime-studiosstreamstreamingtext-based-adventurestwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 29 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of April 21st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
What a week it has been in Massively's world of streaming games! We have a little bit of something for all types of viewers. Hardcores, roleplayers, explorers, crafters and lazy-bums like yours truly: We have something for all of you. Be sure to bookmark our livestream schedule page so that you can always see the schedule ahead of time. It's much easier to plan your life around our videos if you know the schedule early. Invite your friends... we love to hear from new people in the chat room!

This week, we had some EVE Online adventuring with Mike followed by his attempt at Drakensang Online, a browser-based action MMO. Adventure Mike took a spin in the way-back machine and streamed some EverQuest, and MJ scored some time in EverQuest II, a chunk of Vanguard, and Aion. She's been a very busy streamer! Lastly, I took a look at Gemstone IV, a fantastic MUD that almost brought tears to my eyes. Tears of frustration, but many tears of joy.

Let's get to watching!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of April 21st

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of April 21st originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionccpdrakensang-onlineeve-onlineeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iifeaturedgemstone-ivLiveStreamlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvround-uproundupstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvanguardvideovideosSun, 29 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drakensang Online compares itself to Diablo III and Torchlight II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/drakensang-online-compares-itself-to-diablo-iii-and-torchlight-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Drakensang Online
Bigpoint Games is painting Drakensang Online as the Rocky Balboa of isometric hack-'n'-slash MMOs, and it's stepping into the ring with the upcoming title contenders and swinging away. The company released a comparison chart to show how its scrappy underdog is actually head and shoulders above the developing competition.

According to the comparison chart, Drakensang takes the lead by offering all that its competition has and more. When you've got a game that was developed in less than two years, is free-to-play, and is a full-fledged MMO, why would you ever want to sample the fruits of Blizzard's and Runic Games' trees?

Will Drakensang nip hard enough at Diablo III's heels to hobble the mighty demon as it releases next month? Time will tell, but you can check out our impressions of Drakensang when Mike plays it for you live on Massively TV this Wednesday evening!

[Source: Bigpoint Games press release]

MassivelyDrakensang Online compares itself to Diablo III and Torchlight II originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbigpointblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowser-basedcash-shopcomparison-chartd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidrakensangdrakensang-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playgothic-fantasylivestreammassively-tvmultiplayeronline-multiplayerrockyrocky-balboaroguelikerpgrunic-gamestorchlighttorchlight-iiTue, 24 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: April 23 - 29, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/mv-guide-april-23-29-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/mv-guide-april-23-29-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/mv-guide-april-23-29-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: April 23 - 29, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: April 23 - 29, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 23 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of April 14th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On logo
So you accidentally missed your favorite MassivelyTV livestream featuring your favorite Massively personality or writer? Don't worry; we'll forgive you as long as you promise to bookmark our MassivelyTV guide and check back on this weekly recap. That way you are sure not to miss another stream, and you wouldn't need to come back to us, begging for a link. You could also follow Massively on Twitter, one of the best ways to be alerted to new things.

This week we featured a Tboo Thursday, one of our most popular livestreams, which stars resident APB: Reloaded expert Taryn. We also had some more World of Warcraft Mists of Pandaria action from Richie, a bit of newbie content in EverQuest II with MJ at the helm, a quick introduction to skybox building in Second Life hosted by me, Mike's return to EVE Online in his shiny new Drake, and Adventure Mike's leap back into Final Fantasy XIV. Pretty exciting stuff if you're into giant rats, explosions, beautiful sunsets, and piles of bullets.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of April 14th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of April 14th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apb-reloadedbeau-hindmanBlizzardccpEQ2eve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playftpgamersfirstlinden-labLiveStreamLiveStreamingmassivelytvmists-of-pandariamj-guthriepreviously-on-mv-tvsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-EntertainmentSquare-Enixtwitchtwitch-tvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 22 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT community team livestreaming Infernal Dawn tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's not really a raid unless there's a ten-minute diversion when the tanks both go out for a smoke.
If you're playing RIFT, odds are good you're looking forward to the next major content update -- and if you're also a raider, so much the better. But it's one thing to read about all of the neat things that will be going on in a new raid and another thing entirely to actually see them. That's why the community team is hosting an official livestream of the new Infernal Dawn raid that's getting released this week.

The run will begin at 11:30 a.m. PDT, moving through the entirety of the raid and showing off all of the bosses without spoiling the fights themselves. The community team will also be explaining the lore behind the area and the bosses and answering community questions when possible. So if you've got the time around noon tomorrow to check it out, head over to the game's Facebook page and get ready for a guided tour of the newest raid.

[Source: Trion Worlds press release]

MassivelyRIFT community team livestreaming Infernal Dawn tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aion
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: April 16 - 22, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: April 16 - 22, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 16 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Stronghold Kingdoms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/rise-and-shiny-stronghold-kingdoms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/rise-and-shiny-stronghold-kingdoms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/rise-and-shiny-stronghold-kingdoms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Stronghold Kingdoms screenshot
There are certain designs in the MMORTS genre that have frankly started to burn me out. I was a bit worried that I had reached my tolerance point and would not be able to stomach another city-builder until I had put some time between me and my latest preview or first impressions. It's an amazing genre, and as I have argued before, it's more MMO than most MMOs. As in many genres, successful design is copied. The ironic thing is that all of these copies often dilute the market, making it worse on everyone. As much as I love the genre, I am a bit sick of running into the same design, stereotypical settings, and mechanics. Of course, we cannot take these copies and paint the whole genre with a terrible brush; if we did that, all of MMOdom would be in trouble. Still, I'm sick of it.

Luckily Firefly Worlds, maker of Stronghold Kingdoms, has a very persistent "PR ninja" who made a point to poke at me on Twitter. Usually, we funnel all PR contact to our lead editors for organization purposes, but hey, I can't resist a nice voice and a lovely looking game... and I have a high tolerance for fun people.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Stronghold Kingdoms

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Stronghold Kingdoms originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanf2pfeaturedFireflyfirefly-worldsfree-to-playfreemiumftpgemstone-ivhands-onlivestreammassively-tvmudrise-and-shinystreamstreaming-videostronghold-kingdomstwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideoSun, 15 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of April 7th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-7th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-7th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-7th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Oh hey, guys and gals, did you know that it was just Friday the 13th? Yes, it was. Don't worry; you'll have nothing but good luck on this week's recap of livestream goodness. If you missed a stream that you really wanted to see, or if you've never tuned in to check out what we do, head on over to our Twitch.tv page and keep an eye out. Be sure to bookmark the livestream guide as well so you can keep up with the current schedule. We have a lot of variety in our line-up, so it's always good to check back!

This week we had some great stuff! MJ has been streaming like her life depends on it lately, first jumping into EverQuest II, then spending some time in Vanguard: Saga of Heroes. She had to pay some attention Aion, of course, and there, she showed off some player housing and took a trip on an airlink. Mike was back in EVE Online avoiding death-rays and spacemen and later found himself dead in RIFT... again. The Mists of Pandaria have tempted Richie once again, and thankfully our cameras were there to capture it. Meanwhile, I spent some time boating in Second Life and gave a first look at Stronghold Kingdoms.

Just look at that lineup, will you? We're proud! Now click past the cut and get to viewing!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of April 7th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of April 7th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbeau-hindmanBlizzardccpeve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iifeaturedFirefly-Studioslinden-labLiveStreamlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmj-guthriemv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvriftround-uproundupsecond-lifeSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamstronghold-kingdomstelontriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvideovideosWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 15 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Forget guild housing -- Spirit Tales is bringing guild islands]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/forget-guild-housing-spirit-tales-is-bringing-guild-islands/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/forget-guild-housing-spirit-tales-is-bringing-guild-islands/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/forget-guild-housing-spirit-tales-is-bringing-guild-islands/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Spirit Tales
Because there are so many free-to-play games to choose from, developers who come up with something unique have an edge in attracting players. That's exactly what KoramGame Ltd. did with the guild island system in its upcoming title Spirit Tales. Why settle for just a house when you can own an entire private island?

"Guilds have had a long standing tradition in most MMORPGs, but never has there been a feature this extensive and dedicated to guilds. We're convinced that our Guild Island system will not only add to the traditional guild experience, but also take it in an exciting new direction," says General Manager Yann Wang

When guild members need a break from battling creatures and capturing magical pets, they can relax on their very own customizable guild islands, where they can access special buffs and content. Amenities that can be constructed on the islands include hot springs that provide power buffs, statues to immortalize guild members, a throne room meeting hall, a warehouse to store additional guild gear, and a buff vendor to access unique buffs.

If you want to get a glimpse of guild islands live and in action, join the Spirit Tales livestream event on April 13th at 5 p.m. EDT. There will even be prizes!

MassivelyForget guild housing -- Spirit Tales is bringing guild islands originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animebuffsf2pfree-to-playguild-housingguild-islandskoramgamekoramgame-ltdLiveStreamspirit-talesyann-wangThu, 12 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Clean up on aisle four]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/wings-over-atreia-clean-up-on-aisle-four/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/wings-over-atreia-clean-up-on-aisle-four/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/wings-over-atreia-clean-up-on-aisle-four/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia
Careful where you step; there's a bit of a mess.

After much ballyhoo about taking great pains to avoid the dreaded pay-to-win stigma as Aion converts to free-to-play (including screen time in the producers interview), NCsoft went ahead and began offering an eternal-grade weapon in the new BlackCloud Marketplace. Granted, it is for a limited time only, but the fact is that it's been offered at all has sparked a few tizzy-fits within the community. Of all the low-down, double-crossing...

I know some players feel lied to and misled. A few profess they've been downright hornswoggled by that single announcement and have turned away from the game. Meanwhile, others are sitting back chortling "What did you expect?" or mouthing a big "I told you so." But was this really an underhanded trick? Did the devs really go back on what they said? You have to wonder why, right in the midst of generating excitement for Aion, the developers would spite the players they are trying to lure in. And maybe they didn't.

Was this an innocent bonus or portent of things to come? Before we start stringing someone up in effigy, let's take a look at the details. Might just be all the fuss is much ado about nothing.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Clean up on aisle four

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Clean up on aisle four originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-3.0aion-ascensionblackcloudBlackCloud-Marketplacebonus-giftcash-shopf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlivestreamlivestreamingncsoftopinionpay-to-winveteran-rewardswings-over-atreiaMon, 09 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit Tales livestream giveaway happening this Friday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/spirit-tales-livestream-giveaway-happening-this-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/spirit-tales-livestream-giveaway-happening-this-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/spirit-tales-livestream-giveaway-happening-this-friday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Challenger keyboard
Spirit Tales is counting down the days until its open beta goes live on April 25th, but that doesn't mean there's nothing for players to do between now and then. On the contrary, KoramGame is hosting a livestream event on April 13th to both show off the game and hand out prizes to its devoted fans.

By tuning into the Spirit Tales livestream on Friday at 5:00 p.m. EDT, fans can get an eyeful of the game prior to open beta and have a chance at winning one of several giveaways. The livestream will cover a variety of topics, including character creation, PvP, dungeons, and the pet system. You'll need to be logged into Twitch.tv to have a chance at winning.

In addition to handing out goodies over the livestream, KoramGame is awarding one Tt eSPORTS Challenger gaming keyboard and five in-game pets to winners of a future drawing. To get a shot at this, you'll need to register for a free account at the Spirit Tales website.

MassivelySpirit Tales livestream giveaway happening this Friday originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacontestcutef2pfree-to-playgiveawaykoramgamelivestreamopen-betapreviewpromotionspirit-talestwitch-tvtwitch.tvMon, 09 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: April 9 - 15, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/mv-guide-april-9-15-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/mv-guide-april-9-15-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/mv-guide-april-9-15-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Stronghold Kingdoms
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: April 9 - 15, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: April 9 - 15, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 09 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Zandagort]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/rise-and-shiny-zandagort/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/rise-and-shiny-zandagort/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/rise-and-shiny-zandagort/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Zandagort screenshot
Zandagort, a very independent browser-based MMORTS by Zanda Games, really holds a lot of promise. I want to get that out of the way first. Potential, unfortunately, has nothing to do with a player's current experience with the game. No one sits at his PC or laptop and says, "Man, I sure am excited about what this game could be, so I'll keep playing." But that very potential often makes me a little depressed. Potential for good also means potential for bad; if a game is unfinished and has the chance to grow, there's likewise a very real possibility that the game could fester, lose development love, or worse yet, die on the vine. There's no guarantee that even a "AAA" massive-budget game like Star Wars: The Old Republic or RIFT will last forever or even a good amount of time. Who knows?

Usually with an indie game, if it isn't shining and picking up an audience relatively quickly, it just might be in trouble. Zandagort has an audience; I can see players in the outer reaches of space. I am not going to pass judgment on the number of players simply because indie budgets are often easily supported by a smaller playerbase, but I wonder what type of audience it is. I am open-minded and enjoy the occasional slog through an intense "spreadsheets-in-space"-style game, but Zandagort really wore down my patience.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Zandagort

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Zandagort originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancasualf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onLiveStreammassively-tvriftrise-and-shinysci-fisci-fi-mmoscience-fictionspacestreamstronghold-kingdomstwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideozanda-gameszandagortSun, 08 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of March 31st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-31st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

MVTV banner
What a week, huh? We had all sorts of great livestreaming for you to enjoy. If you missed some of the cool things we put on live during the week, no worry! Just check back here every week and you'll be able to recap many of the best moments from our week of live video games. Each week is something new, and this week is no different. We've got quite the variety!

This week, we have Mike jamming on some EVE Online and then jumping into RIFT for horrible magical adventures. Richie ventured into the Mists of Pandaria beta for World of Warcraft to show off cute, cuddly, and furry butts while wielding a weapon of destruction! I had to check out some of the good and bad points about Second Life's Linden Homes, free structures that come with any premium account; I also jumped into Luvinia Online to participate in a huge PvP event, and let me just give you two words to entice you to watch: giant chickens. Blake took some time to shoot things in Global Agenda, and finally, we had MJ taking on some Bristlebane quests in EverQuest II, following it up by attacking stuff all over Aion! Check us out!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of March 31st

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of March 31st originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbeau-hindmaneq-iieq2eve-onlineeverquest-iifeaturedglobal-agendalinden-labLiveStreamlivestreamingluvinia-onlinemassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvriftsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-Entertainmentstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftwowSun, 08 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: April 1 - 8, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/mv-guide-april-1-8-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/mv-guide-april-1-8-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/mv-guide-april-1-8-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Vanguard
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: April 1 - 8, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: April 1 - 8, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 02 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Remanum]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/rise-and-shiny-remanum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/rise-and-shiny-remanum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/rise-and-shiny-remanum/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Remanum screenshot
This week I was lucky enough to come across a pretty cool browser-based MMORTS that offers no combat whatsoever. That's right -- this game is all about trading, conquering your neighbors with prices, and building a reputation that is better than everybody else's. Remanum is brought to us by the makers of the famous Travian set of games. Slowly, but surely, the developers are trying out different styles of gameplay that all offer an art style that is obviously their own. I was thrilled to see them again try out something different with Remanum.

So how boring is a game that offers nothing but trade wars? Well, that all depends on how much you care for scratching your chin, sitting back, and plotting. It's a game of patience and working with others. I never pretend that most MMORTS titles are supposed to move at the same pace as Vindictus or Guild Wars; games just have different styles. Remanum is a great game to enjoy any place and any time, from a few minutes to a few hours a day.

I had a few issues with the game, so let's cover those as well.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Remanum

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Remanum originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-mmofeaturedlivestreammmortsremanumrise-and-shinytraviantravian-gamesvideozandagortSun, 01 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously On MVTV: The week of March 24th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-24th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-24th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-24th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Ah, spring is in the air. You know what that means! That means that we get to sit inside, away from all of the sunshine and pollen, and watch others play through video games that we just don't have access to or haven't given a chance yet. This week, we worked hard to bring you some more of our digital adventures and got some of our biggest viewership numbers ever! Remember, if you come across a game we haven't covered yet or want to see a certain title covered, take the time to tell us. Give us the website, why we should look at it, and any other information you think we need to know, and you just might see it live on MVTV!

First Blake jumped into Global Agenda for his Lunchtime Livecast; then Richie took some time to try out the Mists of Pandaria beta for World of Warcraft. Adventure Mike explored some content in Final Fantasy XIV, while plain old Mike burned some space dust in EVE Online and cast many spells in RIFT. I decided to look at Nadirim because it's been a while and gave the Rise and Shiny treatment to Remanum.

Be sure to bookmark our livestream MV Guide, a sort of TV Guide for our livestreams. That way you can blame only yourself when you miss one of our awesome streams!

Continue reading Previously On MVTV: The week of March 24th

MassivelyPreviously On MVTV: The week of March 24th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanBlizzardccpeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playftpLiveStreamLiveStreamingmists-of-pandarianadirimpreviously-on-mv-tvremanumriftSquare-Enixtravian-gamestriontwitchtwitch-tvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 01 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: March 26 - April 1, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/mv-guide-march-26-april-1-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/mv-guide-march-26-april-1-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/mv-guide-march-26-april-1-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: March 26 - April 1, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: March 26 - April 1, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 26 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Realm of the Mad God]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/rise-and-shiny-realm-of-the-mad-god/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/rise-and-shiny-realm-of-the-mad-god/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/rise-and-shiny-realm-of-the-mad-god/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Realm of the Mad God screenshot
In the past, I've made a few attempts at trying Realm of the Mad God, a "co-op fantasy MMO shooter" by Wild Shadow Studios. But I've been unsuccessful primarily because I couldn't find a way to get past the seemingly repetitive gameplay, horrible forum community and non-MMO status. Luckily a reader named Rick wrote to me and convinced me to give it one more go, saying that it was an MMO by showing me pictures and listing examples of how many players can be found in one area.

That settled it. I made a new account and jumped in, fully expecting to have an OK time but to come away knowing that this game was just for twitch-hooked kiddies. It turns out I was wrong, and now you know why it is a general rule of mine to always give a game a second chance. Or a third, of course.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Realm of the Mad God

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Realm of the Mad God originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancoop-shooterf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onlivestreammassively-tvrealm-of-the-mad-godremanumrise-and-shinyshooterstreamtwitchtwitch-tvvideowild-shadow-studiosSun, 25 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously On MVTV: The week of March 17th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-17th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-17th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-17th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Ah, livestreaming: the greatest thing we do here at Massively. Well, in my opinion at least. Playing video games live for others to watch is not just about virtual glory or showing off just how tough our rigs are (Jeremy wins, anyway), but they can act as instructional guides, introductions to new games, and special glimpses of content that has never before been seen. It's sort of a sad fact that some of these livestreams can do the work of entire columns. Pictures might be worth a thousand words, but animated pictures are worth much more.

This week we have a lot of variety as well as some old favorites for you. Be sure to check out and bookmark our MVTV Guide so that you know what is coming up and when to set your alarm clock. Once you're in the chat room, you can ask questions, point out errors (we love that), and jump into the game with the streamers!

In this week's roundup, Blake starts off with some Star Wars: The Old Republic, and Richie follows up with a bit of Guild Wars action. Next we have Mike returning to EVE Online and then popping into RIFT for some more exploration of the initial free 20 levels. I then take the time to add some animations to my otherwise-bland character in Second Life and then show off a bit of Parallel Kingdom, a browser-based MMO that is layered on top of the real-world map! Jeremy rounds things out with more Atlantica Online, showing off the Tactical Battle System that acts a lot like a boardgame within the game.

Continue reading Previously On MVTV: The week of March 17th

MassivelyPreviously On MVTV: The week of March 17th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarena-nearenanavatarbiowareccpeve-onfeaturedguild-warguild-wars-2lindenlinden-lablivelivestreamlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmv-tvmvtvparallel-kingdomperblueriftround-uproundupsecond-lifestar-warsstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamswtortriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideovideosSun, 25 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Fanfest talks Inferno, World of Darkness panel later today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/eve-fanfest-talks-inferno-world-of-darkness-panel-later-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/eve-fanfest-talks-inferno-world-of-darkness-panel-later-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/eve-fanfest-talks-inferno-world-of-darkness-panel-later-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Fanfest 2012 entrance
Day two of EVE Online Fanfest 2012 had a lot to offer fans of CCP's sci-fi sandbox. First and foremost was the announcement of Inferno's official launch date and the fact that EVE's latest expansion will roll out to Tranquility on May 22nd. As we told you yesterday, the patch is heavy on PvP tweaks, and everything from faction warfare to a new specialized mercenary marketplace is on the way.

The official EVE website also received a ton of updates yesterday, the better to catalogue all of the breaking news direct from Fanfest.

Today's docket is equally fascinating, and CCP devs are scheduled to speak about EVE-related game design topics that include war decs, concept art, and growing the game's infrastructure. Also on the menu is a presentation on World of Darkness that we'll be following with great interest. You can follow it too via our EVETV Livestream channel. Be sure to look for our expert analysis of all the Fanfest happenings in this Sunday's EVE Evolved column!

MassivelyEVE Fanfest talks Inferno, World of Darkness panel later today originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's that time of the year again, when thousands of EVE Online fans from across the globe fly to Iceland for the party at the top of the world. Every year, Fanfest is packed with high-profile reveals, sneak previews at what's to come, panels discussing hot topics, and round tables giving players the opportunity to discuss their ideas directly with developers.

For EVE players, Fanfest is more than just a party with some reveals thrown in; it's a place to meet players as enraptured with the game as they are, to share epic stories of battles won and lost, and to be a part of a truly global game community. Fanfest is three days of living in a world where the virtual universe of New Eden is real and the online exploits of its inhabitants are legend.

Last year, Massively attended the EVE Fanfest and brought you in-depth first-hand coverage of the event, but this year we take a back seat to the live reporting of EVE TV. Live streaming of the event has just begun and will continue for three full days. A full list of the talks, panels, speeches and events that will be streamed is available on the official EVE TV schedule. Each day's events will also be repeated during the night for those viewing from the US. Head over to our official Fanfest livestream page to watch the action!

MassivelyEVE Online's 2012 Fanfest kicks off with free livestreams originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconsoledustdust-514eveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2012eve-onlineeve-tveventeventsevetvfanfestfpsinternet-spaceshipslivestreamLiveStreamingmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3sandboxsci-fishooterspreadsheets-onlinestreamThu, 22 Mar 2012 08:50:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: March 19-25, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/mv-guide-march-19-25-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/mv-guide-march-19-25-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/mv-guide-march-19-25-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Conan is lost
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: March 19-25, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: March 19-25, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvMon, 19 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Lime Odyssey]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/rise-and-shiny-lime-odyssey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/rise-and-shiny-lime-odyssey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/rise-and-shiny-lime-odyssey/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Lime Odyssey screenshot
Lime Odyssey is an Anime-themed free-to-play MMO brought to us from publisher Aeria Games. It features three unique races and... oh, forget it. You already know this probably. The game has a lot of buzz behind it, and Aeria is known to put out some great titles. I knew that when I was invited to check out the alpha for a first impression of Lime Odyssey, I would find a game that was high-quality and beautiful and ran well.

Sure enough, I did find that game. There's something magical about so many Korean titles. Many of them sport some of the most refreshing and original artwork and music, and the engines that many of those titles use is perfectly fit for almost any machine. Yes, there are the three races to choose from, the great Anime graphics, the neat crafting system, and combat systems and much more. My only regret is that I was able to spend only a few days in the game.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Lime Odyssey

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Lime Odyssey originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaallods-onbeau-hindbeau-hindmanblizzardbrowser-basf2pfeaturedfree-tofree-to-playftpgpotatohands-onlivestreamlord-of-thelotromassively-tvrealm-of-the-mad-godrise-and-shirise-and-shinystreamstreaming-videturbinetwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideoworld-of-warwowSun, 18 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: March 12 - 18, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/mv-guide-march-12th-18th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/mv-guide-march-12th-18th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/mv-guide-march-12th-18th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RIFT screenshot
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: March 12 - 18, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: March 12 - 18, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlivestreamlivestreamerslivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreaming-videostreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvvideoMon, 12 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Spirit Tales]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/rise-and-shiny-spirit-tales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/rise-and-shiny-spirit-tales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/rise-and-shiny-spirit-tales/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Spirit Tales screenshot
It's funny, being asked to take a look at a game like Spirit Tales, one in a preview-only state. As usual, I am excited any time a new game pops up in need of being checked out, but when I am alone on the server and surrounded only by soulless NPCs, I feel a bit like a kid lost in an amusement park. Sure, it's a blast to ride all of the rides, but after the fifth go-around on the ferris wheel, I would be missing some humanity.

I soldiered on, however, and luckily I had some of the most adorable graphics ever keeping me company. Not only that, but my gracious hosts stuffed my tiny widdle pockets with cash-shop money. I blew the bulk of it on costumes for my little avatar and had quite a bit of fun playing dress-up. At first, I thought the game was going to be nothing but a game of dress-up.

Luckily for me, my livestream audience seemed to know more than I did.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Spirit Tales

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Spirit Tales originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onkoramgamelime-odysseylivestreammassively-tvrise-and-shinyspirit-talesstreamtwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideoSun, 11 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MVTV: The week of March 3rd, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-3rd-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-3rd-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-3rd-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Another week, another wrap-up of fantastic livestreaming, huh folks? In case you missed any of it, be sure to bookmark our MV Guide page. Check back on it often, maybe 12 times a day, and then you'll never miss another stream! Before you do that, though, sit back and check out some of the best moments of our week of gaming.

We'll start you off with Mike flying through some EVE space, followed by a visit to RIFT. Next up, Richie was perplexed by some Wakfu. I jumped into my usual weekly favorite Glitch to play some Game of Crowns while listening to metal, and then find out that watching Simball in Second Life is pretty darn awesome. Jeremy decided to follow that up with a visit to the turn-based world of Atlantica Online and then got all brave and found himself splattered in Darkfall. To round off the week, I ran some missions in Spiral Knights, and Blake brought up the rear by running and gunning in Global Agenda.

Continue reading Previously on MVTV: The week of March 3rd, 2012

MassivelyPreviously on MVTV: The week of March 3rd, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanfeaturedjeremy-strattonlivestreamlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmassivelytvmv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvround-uproundupstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideovideosSun, 11 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR's Guild Summit kicks off -- and lurkers are welcome [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/swtors-guild-summit-kicks-off-and-lurkers-are-welcome/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/swtors-guild-summit-kicks-off-and-lurkers-are-welcome/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/swtors-guild-summit-kicks-off-and-lurkers-are-welcome/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR
BioWare has assembled guilds from all across the world this week for a Star Wars: The Old Republic Guild Summit, and proceedings have already begun. Over 160 guilds have assembled in Austin, Texas, from places as far away from Norway, Brazil, and France.

The good news is that even if you're not reading this post from a spot on the summit floor, you can still tune into the panels and discussions via livestream. Today's events include a patch 1.2 presentation (which is coming "soon"), discussions about operations and flashpoints, and panels covering PvP, the Legacy system, the economy, roleplaying, guild features, and the user interface.

BioWare also announced its Friends of Star Wars program, which will give all current players the ability to give three one-week trials to others to check out the game. Finally, BioWare teased a new world events system.

Check out all of the action on SWTOR's Guild Summit livestream right now!

[Update: TORWars managed to record a shaky-cam version of the GU 1.2 Legacy video. It's now tucked behind the cut!]

Continue reading SWTOR's Guild Summit kicks off -- and lurkers are welcome [Updated]

MassivelySWTOR's Guild Summit kicks off -- and lurkers are welcome [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.2-patchbiowareeaelectronic-artsfree-trialfriends-of-star-warsgame-update-1.2guild-banksguild-summitlegacy-systemlivestreamlucasartspatch-1.2sci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictortrialupdate-1.2Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: March 5th - 11th, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/mv-guide-march-5th-11th-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/mv-guide-march-5th-11th-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/mv-guide-march-5th-11th-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MV Guide Star Trek Online header
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: March 5th - 11th, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: March 5th - 11th, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanfeaturedlivestreamlivestreamerslivestreamingmassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-guidemv-tvmvtvstreamstreamersstreamingstreaming-vidstreamteamtwitchtwitch-tvvideoMon, 05 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST