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[Ask Massively: Second chances in MMO's]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/ask-massively-second-chances-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/ask-massively-second-chances-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/ask-massively-second-chances-in-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I'm feeling a bit cranky these days, so for this week's Ask Massively, I thought that I'd give you all my unvarnished opinion instead of kissing your collective backside in order to generate a few more page hits. Get your claws out for this one, folks. This nugget of truth is going to hurt a little.

Why do MMO's only have 1 shot when they change so *drastically* over time?

Games such as EQ2, DDO, Vanguard, Tabula Rasa, perhaps AoC...

6 months to a year later when the game is good and bursting with content etc. Why do players always chime the mantra "Too little too late" and perfer to just wait for the "next big thing" instead of re-visting these other games?

I understand feeling burnt for not getting everything at launch, but who cares? if the game has everything you wanted *now* who cares about the past when it *didnt*?

I just dont get it.

-Ding Dong Dang

Continue reading Ask Massively: Second chances in MMO's

MassivelyAsk Massively: Second chances in MMO's originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananarchy-onlineddodragonconeve-onlineeverquestfeaturedliving-legacytabula-rasaworld-of-warcraftThu, 28 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II seeks more Living Legacies until Sept. 30th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/everquest-ii-seeks-more-living-legacies-until-sept-30th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/everquest-ii-seeks-more-living-legacies-until-sept-30th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/everquest-ii-seeks-more-living-legacies-until-sept-30th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Apparently happy with results from earlier in the summer, SOE has added a new phase to the Living Legacy program. This time, all inactive EverQuest accounts may now try EverQuest II and all its expansions for free until September 30th. Yes, you read that right: inactive EverQuest accounts, not EverQuest II accounts. Looks like SOE is trying to bring old customers into the 21st century!

Participants also get $5 towards the purchase of this fall's new expansion (assuming they upgrade to a paying account) and a bunch of in-game items including a pet drake, a 12-slot bag, and a bag of XP potions. Word on the street is that the previous iteration of the Living Legacy program was a big success, so SOE is probably trying to keep the ball rolling.

Note, though, that this isn't being offered to current EverQuest subscribers, just lapsed ones. Apparently SOE doesn't want to lose current EQ players to EQ2, but if you're playing neither right now, it wants you to play the more modern one. Makes sense.

MassivelyEverQuest II seeks more Living Legacies until Sept. 30th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionliving-legacypromotionsoesonysony-online-entertainmentsubscribersFri, 08 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EQ devs talk upcoming expansion, old zone revamps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/23/eq-devs-talk-upcoming-expansion-old-zone-revamps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/23/eq-devs-talk-upcoming-expansion-old-zone-revamps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/23/eq-devs-talk-upcoming-expansion-old-zone-revamps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

A half dozen EverQuest developers sat down with their faithful players and discussed the details of the new expansion, Seeds of Destruction, which old zones were next to be hit with the revamp stick, and what other changes were on the horizon for SOE's most venerable, but still popular, game.

The next expansion will continue to require faction grinding to progress, similar to that in Secrets of Faydwer, though some changes will be made to address player complaints. Still, World of Warcraft-like faction grinding seems to be a big hit with EQ devs since its introduction in the Dragons of Norrath expansion, and we wll likely see it continue in the foreseeable future.

Continue reading EQ devs talk upcoming expansion, old zone revamps

MassivelyEQ devs talk upcoming expansion, old zone revamps originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugseqeverquestexpansionsfantasygame-mechanicsinterviewsliving-legacynewsnews-itemsseeds-of-destructionsoeworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 23 Jul 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Are you owed any EQ Veteran Rewards?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/are-you-owed-any-eq-veteran-rewards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/are-you-owed-any-eq-veteran-rewards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/are-you-owed-any-eq-veteran-rewards/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With many players returning to EverQuest after SOE's Living Legacy promotion, there are probably a lot of people out there who are owed Veteran Rewards that are sitting unclaimed. A new guide has been posted at the EverQuest Players website which not only explains exactly what the rewards are and how they are earned, but more importantly, goes over all of the reward tiers and their effects. Be careful before you go "/claim"-happy though -- once a particular reward is claimed on one character, no amount of GM bribing can ever allow it to be moved.

The EverQuest Veteran Rewards offer some pretty neat effects, from experience and stat buffs, to a Bristlebane puppet, right up to a summonable robot merchant (if you've been around for 10 years!). Have a look at the guide to see what your loyalty will be rewarded with in the coming years.

MassivelyAre you owed any EQ Veteran Rewards? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeverquestguideliving-legacysoesony-online-entertainmentveteran-rewardsTue, 22 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's readers (you) interview EQ2's Senior Producer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/massivelys-readers-you-interview-eq2s-senior-producer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/massivelys-readers-you-interview-eq2s-senior-producer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/massivelys-readers-you-interview-eq2s-senior-producer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

About two weeks ago we asked you to pass on some questions we could give to the EverQuest 2 team. Our own team of bloggers and columnists pitched in a few questions as well, and we brought the best of those to the attention of EQ2's Senior Producer Bruce Ferguson. He answered several of our questions in-depth, though some of his answers may not be exactly what you were hoping to hear.

Read on below the cut to see your questions answered! Mr. Ferguson chats about the purpose of the Living Legacy program, future plans for developing PvP in the game, and even tackles that burning question about solo vs. group play. Also, about the possibility of flying mounts in Norrath ...

Continue reading Massively's readers (you) interview EQ2's Senior Producer

MassivelyMassively's readers (you) interview EQ2's Senior Producer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bruce-fergusoneq2everquest-2everquest-iifeaturedinterviewjoystiqfeaturesliving-legacysoesony-online-entertainmentThu, 03 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EQII "Fight with Legends" campaign offers free game time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/eqii-fight-with-legends-campaign-offers-free-game-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/eqii-fight-with-legends-campaign-offers-free-game-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/eqii-fight-with-legends-campaign-offers-free-game-time/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


As part of the Living Legacy promotion that is taking place in EverQuest II right now, SOE has announced a brand new campaign that is kicking off today. Called "Fight with Legends", this initiative is aimed at bringing even more people to EQII by getting players to recruit their friends, and rewarding them for it.

For each account invitee that converts to a paying subscriber within 30 days of their trial conclusion, the inviting player will receive 1 month of EQII game time (added to the end of their current subscription). The number of friends you can do this with is limited to 20, which would mean a whopping 20 months of free game time; but even 1 month is a pretty nice bonus, so if you've got some bored friends, perhaps it's time to introduce them to Norrath.

MassivelyEQII "Fight with Legends" campaign offers free game time originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifight-with-legendsfree-game-timeliving-legacysoesony-online-entertainmentThu, 03 Jul 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Legends of Norrath Living Legacy Photo Contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/legends-of-norrath-living-legacy-photo-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/legends-of-norrath-living-legacy-photo-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/legends-of-norrath-living-legacy-photo-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


EverQuest and EverQuest II are getting the lion's share of the attention in SOE's Living Legacy promotion. But they are reserving something special for their massively collectible card game, Legends of Norrath. Win the Living Legacy Photo Contest, and not only will you get your picture painted, in character by artist Kieran Yanner for use on a Legends of Norrath card, but you'll be flown to the SOE Fan Faire this August. If you're an EverQuest player, your image will be made into a statue and placed into the guild halls of every guild in Norrath. If you are an EverQuest II player, your card will be made into a painting that can be hung in a place of honor in your apartment. All you need to do is to send them a picture that shows your passion for EverQuest. Find the complete rules on the Legends of Norrath web site. And good luck!

MassivelyLegends of Norrath Living Legacy Photo Contest originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestseqeq2eqiieventseverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifantasyfree-to-playlegends-of-norrathliving-legacytrading-card-gameTue, 01 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest's new lead designer on the future of SOE's venerable MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/everquests-new-lead-designer-on-the-future-of-soes-venerable-m/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/everquests-new-lead-designer-on-the-future-of-soes-venerable-m/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/everquests-new-lead-designer-on-the-future-of-soes-venerable-m/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ryan Barker is the newly-dubbed lead designer for SOE's venerable EverQuest, and recently sat down with the folks at Curse to talk the state of the game - and even a bit about the game's future. Barker again confirms the team's pleasure at having more times to work on expansion packs, a subject covered well in our discussion with previous EQ lead designer Travis McGeathy. They also note their heavy enthusiasm at seeing players return for the Living Legacy event, something we've also discussed on the site.

Without a doubt the most interesting segment is the design team's reflection on their favorite encounter in the game's history. Barker and several members of the design group point out their favorite moments from the nine years worth of content the game has on offer. Says Barker, "For me it was definitely Lord Nagafen back in original release. I was part of the first raid that killed him on Rallos Zek. It was such a rush going back through the fire giant castle and seeing that dragon for the first time. I think I seriously jumped out of my chair the first time he stuck his head through the door and bit me."

Your turn, then: What's your favorite encounter/quest/monster from EverQuest?

MassivelyEverQuest's new lead designer on the future of SOE's venerable MMO originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeverquestfantasyinterviewlead-designerliving-legacyryan-barkersoesony-online-entertainmentSat, 28 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vanguard offers 5 days free to past subscribers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/vanguard-offers-5-days-free-to-past-subscribers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/vanguard-offers-5-days-free-to-past-subscribers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/vanguard-offers-5-days-free-to-past-subscribers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The Vanguard team has deployed its own (more modest) version of EverQuest's much-publicized Living Legacy campaign. Anyone who used to have a Vanguard account may play for free up through the 31st. SOE is touting performance enhancements and "new code" intended to make the game run more smoothly.

See, when the game first launched, it had performance issues about as bad as (or maybe even worse than) those of Age of Conan's open beta event. The game was virtually unplayable in major cities for all but the most beastly systems. With each major game update, though, SOE has tweaked and optimized the engine to make it run better. Apparently the team now feels that it's reached the point where it can reach out to old players and say, "Hey, we fixed it; come back and try again!

MassivelyVanguard offers 5 days free to past subscribers originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Jun 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventeverquestfreeliving-legacysoesony-online-entertainmentsubscribersvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesSat, 28 Jun 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest's Living Legacy live event going on now]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/everquest-s-living-legacy-live-event-going-on-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/everquest-s-living-legacy-live-event-going-on-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/everquest-s-living-legacy-live-event-going-on-now/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Remember when Kerafym the Sleeper went on a rampage slaying every mortal after the Warders were defeated? Think further back to your first excursion into the Plane of Fear and Plane of Hate, when tragedy struck and what followed was the tireless effort to recover one's corpse or the ultimate raucous victory that immediately followed a guild's first God kill. Good times and bad, it was special. Many years have passed, bringing many unknown expansions since your last foray into Norrath, but that shouldn't stop you from visiting now with the Living Legacy promotion providing all inactive EverQuest and EverQuest II veterans with ample opportunity and incentives to return at no cost until the end of July and relive the adventures.

Events are planned all throughout the campaign and the current event running this weekend is: "Sacrifice at the Sand Keep." It is an endurance challenge that pits players against Eothar and his echelon of undead minions. The goal is to endure attacks as long as possible. Players can seek out Dougan Merule in the Southern Desert of Ro to initiate the expedition, but if you're a returning player you probably want to check out the Guild Halls first located in the Plane of Knowledge to find other fellow and more than helpful to answer any questions you have. So did you go back?

MassivelyEverQuest's Living Legacy live event going on now originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eothareqeq2eventseverquestliving-legacynorrathraidsacrifice-at-the-sandkeepsoesony-online-entertainmentThu, 26 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EQII "Become a Legend" contest gets you to prove your epicness]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/eqii-become-a-legend-contest-gets-you-to-prove-your-epicness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/eqii-become-a-legend-contest-gets-you-to-prove-your-epicness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/eqii-become-a-legend-contest-gets-you-to-prove-your-epicness/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You know how epic you are. You know that you're the best dragon-slayer there is, you've saved the most maidens, and have shiny gear that blinds mere mortals as you ride past. It's time to show the world what a hero you are -- and get rewarded for it. As part of EverQuest II's Living Legacy promotion, SOE is running a contest called "Become a Legend", asking entrants to snap a shot of their characters in their best digs, in an interesting location, and include a short history of their character's legendary adventures.

The winning entries will be treated to a digital copy of the next EQII expansion, and Living Legacy merchandise. As well as this, the winning pictures will be displayed at the Station website, and probably at the EQII sites. As always, there are some terms and conditions for this competition. You must be 18 years or older and live in the U.S. to take part -- visit the EQ2Players website to get the full contest details, including picture sizes and word limits.

MassivelyEQII "Become a Legend" contest gets you to prove your epicness originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>become-a-legendcompetitioneq2eq2playerseqiieverquest-2everquest-iiliving-legacysoesony-online-entertainmentWed, 25 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest 2 guild recruitment fair set to take place this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/everquest-2-guild-recruitment-fair-set-to-take-place-this-weeken/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/everquest-2-guild-recruitment-fair-set-to-take-place-this-weeken/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/everquest-2-guild-recruitment-fair-set-to-take-place-this-weeken/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Gnobrin has dropped into the official EverQuest 2 forums to announce a unique event this weekend. Players just returned for the Living Legacy event, or lone wolves looking to come in from the cold, will be happy to hear there's a guild recruitment fair set for June 28th and June 29th. Where you are going to be headed for the fair depends on what kind of server you're on, because of the dangers of open-world PvP. Folks on the hardcore servers will have to brave city lag, with goodies heading to the Claymore monument and evil-folk aiming for Execution Square in West Freeport. On PvE servers, you'll have an easier time. The Claymore in Antonica is the site of the fair for goodly players, while Evil players will want to head to the Crossroads in the Commonlands.

If you're looking for a guild right now, why not check out their guide to the guild search functionality? Gnobby also offers up a few previews for EQuinox #2, the official EQ magazine. This next issue is going to have a bunch of guild-related information; if you're interested there is a pdf preview available online. He also links to a massive image of the 'Guild Bill of Rights' from the magaizine. It's funny and smarmy; just like a gnome.

MassivelyEverQuest 2 guild recruitment fair set to take place this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2everquest-2everquest-iiguildguild-fairliving-legacysoesony-online-entertainmentWed, 25 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE runs first EverQuest magazine ad in years]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/soe-runs-first-everquest-magazine-ad-in-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/soe-runs-first-everquest-magazine-ad-in-years/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/soe-runs-first-everquest-magazine-ad-in-years/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment reportedly bought a "three-page advertising spread" for EverQuest in this month's issue of PC Gamer magazine. The massive ad promotes the Living Legacy campaign -- an initiative that allows former EQ and EverQuest II subscribers to play for free until the end of July.

In two interviews, reps from SOE told us that the Living Legacy initiative is intended to show lapsed and potential EQ and EQ2 players that both games have evolved over the years, and that they deserve a fresh look. A print ad is a bold statement, although new marketing pushes for old games are not unprecedented. Near Death Studios bought ad space for Meridian 59 on the Vault Network when the game relaunched in 2001 after a two year absence. Electronic Arts plastered the web with Ultima Online: Kingdom Reborn ads in the wake its 3D graphics engine upgrade.

But will it work? Should more old MMOs do it? Are advertizing blitzes and a couple of free months of play what MMOs of yore need, or does this industry move too fast for that to be sufficient? Commence pondering.

MassivelySOE runs first EverQuest magazine ad in years originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisementeqeq2everquesteverquest-iiliving-legacymagazinepc-gamerprintsoeMon, 23 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[An interview on the Living Legacy campaign]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/an-interview-on-the-living-legacy-campaign/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/an-interview-on-the-living-legacy-campaign/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/an-interview-on-the-living-legacy-campaign/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Sony Online Entertainment's Living Legacy promotion has reportedly become their most successful win-back campaign to date, doubling those efforts from other reactivation promotions. This hasn't come without controversy though. In a recent interview at Allakhazam, SOE's Torrie Dorrell explains some details on the success of this program and addresses the complaints heard from the current loyal subscribers of EverQuest and EverQuest II.

According to Dorrell, there are numerous advantages given to EQ's loyal players including live events and new lore leading up to the eventual launch of the newest expansion pack. "This is like complaining about a shiny someone picked up near you while you're opening an exquisite chest," Dorrell says. This interview goes on to debunk rumors that this campaign was timed to compete with the launch of other big-name MMOs and expansions due out this year.

MassivelyAn interview on the Living Legacy campaign originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>everquesteverquest-2living-legacysoesony-online-entertainmenttorrie-dorrellMon, 23 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Did Living Legacy bring you back?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/did-living-legacy-bring-you-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/did-living-legacy-bring-you-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/did-living-legacy-bring-you-back/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Were you a EverQuest or EverQuest II player who has returned because of this summer's Living Legacy promotion? You're not alone. From all we've heard, and all we've seen in game, people are coming back in droves. If you've come back, how are you liking it? The EverQuest II forums are full of stories of people who returned (and lots who are offering help as well). Having looked around EverQuest again, are you planning on staying for awhile?

MassivelyDid Living Legacy bring you back? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2eqiieventseverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifantasyforumsliving-legacySun, 22 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Raiding the I.R.A.]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/raiding-the-i-r-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/raiding-the-i-r-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/raiding-the-i-r-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's a dark time in EverQuest. Meldrath, the evil gnome necromancer harrying Faydwer with the mecha-monstrosities, has seen the summer celebrations bring joy to the land, and he is not happy. To prevent Meldrath from breaking out of his mecha-castle and taking over all of Norrath with his numberless mechanical minions, the engineers of Ak'Anon have constructed the Infinitely Regenerative Automaton -- the I.R.A. -- to stop him in his tracks. This marvelous machine pops back to life and full health two minutes after he is defeated, and so can never be stopped for long.

To make sure that the I.R.A. can handle whatever is thrown at it, they need you -- and lots of your friends -- to test it. As part of the Living Legacy promotion, your skill as a raider will be tracked and rewarded. Every time a raid that you're in takes the I.R.A. to 5% health, he will deactivate and reset, and you will get a point (which you can track on the clockwork abacus you will receive). At the end of the promotion, every player that participated in the fight against the I.R.A. will receive an augmentation -- the Silver Threaded Worm Gear -- with power that scales to the number of times they raged against the machine.

Check out the teaser video after the break.

Continue reading Raiding the I.R.A.

MassivelyRaiding the I.R.A. originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeventseverquestfantasyliving-legacymeldrathnewsvideoSun, 22 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest 2 Game Update 46 goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/everquest-2-game-update-46-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/everquest-2-game-update-46-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/everquest-2-game-update-46-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The tempest is gathering. Runnyeye, a storied dungeon since the days of the original EverQuest, is now a more dangerous locale. EverQuest 2 Game Update 46 is now live on the game servers, and we have some new media to go along with it. We've been previewing this content for some time now. You might recall Brenda Holloway's fantastic walkthroughs of The Void Storms live event, or the new heroic version of the Runnyeye dungeon. Make sure to check out the Void Storms while you can, because that event is only running through the middle of July.

Also make sure to check out improvements to Chelsith, Shard of Fear, and the Estate of Unrest; these locales will now offer up status points for adventurers brave enough to face them and survive. For another look at this great content check out our gallery below, or click on through to the brand new EQ2 Game Update 46 trailer below the cut.

Gallery: EverQuest II - GU46

Void Storms in EverfrostVoid Storms in the dungeonsVoid Storms in Lesser FaydarkHeroic RunnyeyeHeroic Runnyeye

Continue reading EverQuest 2 Game Update 46 goes live

MassivelyEverQuest 2 Game Update 46 goes live originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingeq2eq2-gu-46everquest-2everquest-iiheroic-runnyeyeliving-legacyrunnyeyesoesony-online-entertainmentvoid-stormsTue, 17 Jun 2008 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Podcast Episode 9]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/massively-speaking-podcast-episode-9/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/massively-speaking-podcast-episode-9/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/massively-speaking-podcast-episode-9/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 9 runs down news and features from Massively.com for the week of June 2nd - June 10th. WoW Insider superstars Elizabeth Harper and the irrepressible Turpster join Shawn and Michael for wide-ranging show. Getting away from the very focused discussions we've had the last few weeks, the hosts cover the numerous interesting subjects that have come up in the last seven days. Turbine's future plans, the possibility of a Harry Potter MMO, the new Living Legacy promotion from SOE, and even the weird state Tabula Rasa finds itself in all go under the magnifying glass. Listen in, won't you?

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot us an email to podcast AT massively DOT com. Maybe we'll read your letter on the air!

Get the podcast:
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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Podcast Episode 9

MassivelyMassively Speaking Podcast Episode 9 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturefeaturedharry-potterliving-legacymassively-speakingpodcastssoetabula-rasaturbineFri, 13 Jun 2008 09:30:00 ESTMassively Podcast Episode 9Massively.com Staff49:00podcasts<![CDATA[Exclusive interview with the developers of Legends of Norrath]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/exclusive-interview-with-the-legends-of-norrath-development-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/exclusive-interview-with-the-legends-of-norrath-development-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/exclusive-interview-with-the-legends-of-norrath-development-team/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The next set of Legends of Norrath cards is slated to release just next week. Oathbreaker will be the final set in the 'first block' or 'year one' of the SOE-Denver production. To get some information on Oathbreaker, new raids, and future plans, we sat down to talk with Kyle Heuer, Associate Producer for the game, and Tom Lischke, Producer at the Sony Online Entertainment studio in Denver.

Join us as we talk about raid play, tournaments, some exciting plans for integrating Legends of Norrath with EverQuest and EverQuest 2, and a few hopeful words about the future of loot mounts for EQ2 players. Also make sure to head over to our exclusive gallery of Oathbreaker loot cards!

Continue reading Exclusive interview with the developers of Legends of Norrath

MassivelyExclusive interview with the developers of Legends of Norrath originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2everquesteverquest-2featuredlegends-of-norrathliving-legacylonoathbreakersoesoe-denversony-online-entertainmentThu, 12 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The bigger picture behind SOE's Living Legacy strategy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/the-bigger-picture-behind-soes-living-legacy-strategy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/the-bigger-picture-behind-soes-living-legacy-strategy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/the-bigger-picture-behind-soes-living-legacy-strategy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Ancient Gaming Noob is stirring up the crack pots in this excellent post questioning whether or not a New World Order is taking shape over at Sony Online Entertainment. Why would he think that? Well all the ballyhoo surrounding the Living Legacy promotion of course. In an unprecedented move SOE reactivated and marked over a million EQ/EQ2 accounts for free play until July 25th. Oh yea, that's freakin' insane, not to mention the deal only gets sweeter because it comes with a ton of perks and incentives for those that resub to either EverQuest or EverQuestII.

While some disgruntled players who were already active EQ/EQ2 subscribers at the time of the announcement lament, as felt in various drama bombs around the blogosphere; the case he presents and the reasons listed are very intriguing. We would go into greater detail into the theory, but we don't want to spoil it. Go read it and come back here and tell us what you think about Living Legacy and the speculative truth behind it. Is he onto something?

MassivelyThe bigger picture behind SOE's Living Legacy strategy originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conspiracyeqeq2eq2-gu-46everquestliving-legacynew-world-ordersoesony-online-entertainmenttagnthe-ancient-gaming-noobSun, 08 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The week in massively features]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/the-week-in-massively-features/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/the-week-in-massively-features/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/the-week-in-massively-features/#commentsFiled under: ,

Massively goes to WAR: Every Warhammer class explained
The morning was quickly running out, and to compensate for the sheer amount of information we needed to pile through our demonstrators went into overdrive. For roughly an hour we moved quickly from class to class, visiting the highpoints of several different types of gameplay. Much of our discussion explored the karmic doppelgangers across classes; different races entirely that share similar roles or playstyles.
EverQuest's senior producer and designer on SOE's Living Legacy
Last week we sat down with EverQuest lead designer Ryan Barker, and senior producer Clint Worley. They were both very enthused to talk about the Living Legacy program, the just-announced initiative to bring adventurers back to Norrath. With the game's amazing tenth anniversary just about a year away, it was very interesting to speak with these industry veterans on what the team has in store for us this summer.
Unboxing EverQuest's Living Legacy
So you've decided to take SOE up on their Living Legacy promotion, with free two months of gameplay and all the goodies you can fit into your extra-large sized trick-or-treat bag, and are wondering just what you'll find in that bag when you open it. If you're finding yourself in EverQuest, you'll get quite a lot.
Tabula Rasa goes AWOL from Q1 NCSoft financial reports
When the financial reports for the Q1 performance of NCSoft hit the Massively offices, fingers were quickly pressed to pages with one intent -- finding out what was going on with Richard Garriott's Tabula Rasa. Already this year, we've heard dour reports on the status of the game, which were then rebuked by NCSoft, but those reports still planted seeds of doubt.
Massively interviews Jon Van Caneghem about the SCI FI Channel MMO
Massively sat down with Van Caneghem (a busy man since the news dropped on Monday) to chat about both the fantasy MMO and the SCI FI project, and what Trion's been working on since they formed. Van Caneghem told us why Trion wants to make a different kind of MMO, and how they'll balance an online game with a television series from the network that's running Battlestar Galactica. The interview starts right after you click the link below.

Continue reading The week in massively features

MassivelyThe week in massively features originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>everquestfeaturedliving-legacymassivley-goes-to-wartabula-rasatrionweek-in-mv-featuresSun, 08 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Living Legacy: What it does and what it doesn't]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/living-legacy-what-it-does-and-what-it-doesnt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/living-legacy-what-it-does-and-what-it-doesnt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/living-legacy-what-it-does-and-what-it-doesnt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Long-time players of Sony Online Entertainment's EverQuest will likely recall the name Loral Ciriclight. A fixture in the EQ community, he's written for years about the game at the Mobhunter site. Of late, the site has been dark. The Evil Agendas have been kept in the drawer, the thoughts on expansion cycles have been explained offline. In response to the recent hoopla around the Living Legacy event Ciriclight felt the need to offer his views on the initiative.

From the commentator's point of view, the drive just doesn't address the real issues behind EverQuest's decline. While the toys are neat and free playtime is always welcome, Ciriclight notes that the many problems that persist throughout the game's design are still there. Players left EverQuest for a reason. It might have been the mandatory grouping, or the large raid size. Or something else entirely. Whatever they left the game for - it's probably still there. The Mobhunter offers a few ideas of how they could attract the attention of wayward players and make them stick, but ultimately he doesn't seem too hopeful.

Says Ciriclight, "Without establishing new character baselines or changing the way the game is played, players are likely to leave for the same reason they left in the first place. At this time, other games are just more fun."

MassivelyLiving Legacy: What it does and what it doesn't originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeverquestliving-legacysoesony-online-entertainmentSun, 08 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Going back to EQ or EQ2 but -- which server?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/going-back-to-eq-or-eq2-but-which-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/going-back-to-eq-or-eq2-but-which-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/going-back-to-eq-or-eq2-but-which-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

SOE's new Living Legacy event seeks to lure people back to their two main EverQuest games (EverQuest Online Adventures for the PS2 and EverQuest Macintosh Edition get no love here) by using shiny new armors and abilities and super-fast leveling. Both EverQuest and EverQuest II have changed in so many fundamental ways in recent years that SOE really wants you to come back and try the games again.

Which server to play, though? Both games have many servers. Nothing like World of Warcraft's hundreds, but enough so that its not immediately obvious which one to choose. SOE has prepared a couple of pages that briefly list the servers and tell you what the odd letters next to their names mean, but in this article, we're going to try to examine servers a little more deeply, so that you can create your character knowing the sorts of people you'll find. More details -- LOTS more -- after the break.

Continue reading Going back to EQ or EQ2 but -- which server?

MassivelyGoing back to EQ or EQ2 but -- which server? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifantasyfeaturedgame-mechanicsliving-legacypvepvproleplayingserversworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 05 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How do you feel about Living Legacy?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-feel-about-living-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-feel-about-living-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-feel-about-living-legacy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The word on the blogosphere right now is that current subscribers are not happy with Sony Online Entertainment's Living Legacy marketing campaign. While former subscribers and trial account users are getting many perks to come back to EverQuest, many current subscribers are feeling a bit snubbed.

Living Legacy is certainly offering a multitude of events and other exciting opportunities for current users, but the general feeling is that these offerings don't come close to what former subscribers are getting. What we here at Massively want to know is how do, the current subscriber of EverQuest or EverQuest II feel? Is Living Legacy pleasing you with what it currently has, or do you want the campaign to give back more to those who have been with EQ?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: How do you feel about Living Legacy? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2everquesteverquest-2living-legacySOEsony-online-entertainmentthe-daily-grindThu, 05 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unboxing EverQuest's Living Legacy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/unboxing-everquests-living-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/unboxing-everquests-living-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/unboxing-everquests-living-legacy/#commentsFiled under: , ,

So you've decided to take SOE up on their Living Legacy promotion, with free two months of gameplay and all the goodies you can fit into your extra-large sized trick-or-treat bag, and are wondering just what you'll find in that bag when you open it. If you're finding yourself in EverQuest, you'll get quite a lot.

Legacy Satchel - Your trick-or-treat bag itself is rather nice. The Legacy Satchel is a seven slot bag that can hold any item, no matter how large. Sturdy straps make it easy to find a good spot for this bag among the other nine knapsacks you're juggling. It includes smaller pockets for your PDA and cell phone, for when those get invented.

More information on the armor, weapons, potions and other items you'll find in your Legacy Satchel -- after the break.

Continue reading Unboxing EverQuest's Living Legacy

MassivelyUnboxing EverQuest's Living Legacy originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeventseverquestfantasyfeaturedliving-legacysoeTue, 03 Jun 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Going back to EverCrack?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/the-daily-grind-going-back-to-evercrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/the-daily-grind-going-back-to-evercrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/the-daily-grind-going-back-to-evercrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


For those of you who haven't heard, Sony Online Entertainment has handed out 60 day subscriptions to all former EverQuest and EverQuest II subscribers -- even trial accounts! The whole initiative is part of this summer's Living Legacy marketing campaign, which will be including events, items, Legends of Norrath cards, experience weekends, and much much more! This is all leading up to the new expansion pack that will be released for EverQuest II later on this year.

So, this obviously begs the question, are you going to go back to your "EverCrack"? Is this aggressive marketing campaign enough to pull your hands away from the recently released Age of Conan, World of Warcraft, or other favorite MMO? With all of these incentives being offered, and so much to do inside of EverQuest each week this summer until August, will you find a need to go back to your old habits?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Going back to EverCrack? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2everquesteverquest-2featuredfree-subscriptionjoystiqfeatureslegends-of-norrathliving-legacylonmarketingsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-daily-grindTue, 03 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II's senior producer on SOE's Living Legacy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/everquest-iis-senior-producer-on-the-living-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/everquest-iis-senior-producer-on-the-living-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/everquest-iis-senior-producer-on-the-living-legacy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bruce Ferguson is both new to the EverQuest II team, and an old hand as well. Bruce was with the team back when the game first launched, and just a few months after his return we sat down to chat about the intriguing new Living Legacy program. Overlapping between the sequel and the original EverQuest, this ambitious recall program may be even more meaningful for EQ2 than the original game.

Many players were thrown by the launch game's strange approach to design. Locked encounters, a confusing class system, and numerous idiosyncrasies plagued early EQ2 players. The EverQuest 2 of today, in contrast, is a study in listening to the needs of the players. Join us as Mr. Ferguson explains a bit of that philosophy, talks about the numerous bonus XP weekends coming up, and hints at the many live events that will tie the past into the future with the next EQ2 expansion.

Continue reading EverQuest II's senior producer on SOE's Living Legacy

MassivelyEverQuest II's senior producer on SOE's Living Legacy originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bruce-fergusoneq2eq2-gu-46everquest-2everquest-iifeaturedliving-legacysoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 02 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest's senior producer and designer on SOE's Living Legacy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/everquests-senior-producer-and-designer-on-the-living-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/everquests-senior-producer-and-designer-on-the-living-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/everquests-senior-producer-and-designer-on-the-living-legacy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Last week we sat down with EverQuest lead designer Ryan Barker, and senior producer Clint Worley. They were both very enthused to talk about the Living Legacy program, the just-announced initiative to bring adventurers back to Norrath. With the game's amazing tenth anniversary just about a year away, it was very interesting to speak with these industry veterans on what the team has in store for us this summer.

Join us as we chat about the game's future, the special competition raid encounters slated for the Legacy event, and even how these events are rolling along in the direction of the mysterious next expansion!

Continue reading EverQuest's senior producer and designer on SOE's Living Legacy

MassivelyEverQuest's senior producer and designer on SOE's Living Legacy originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clint-worleyeqeverquestfeaturedliving-legacyryan-barkersoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 02 Jun 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE's Living Legacy campaign gives you 2 free months in EQ and EQ2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/soes-living-legacy-campaign-gives-you-2-free-months-in-eq-and-e/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/soes-living-legacy-campaign-gives-you-2-free-months-in-eq-and-e/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/soes-living-legacy-campaign-gives-you-2-free-months-in-eq-and-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment has today unveiled the official site for a huge summer initiative. Called Living Legacy, it's their most ambitious enterprise to date aimed at getting players back into the game. Starting today (they've probably already done it, if you want to go look) SOE will reactive the account of every player who's ever set foot into EverQuest or EverQuest II. Accounts are open and free until July 31st for EQ2 players, and July 25th for EQ players. Better still, both games will be completely patched with all expansion content: returning players have been gifted with the Secrets of Faydwer and/or Rise of Kunark all-in-one packs.

Not only are they offering a free pass back into Norrath, but a bevy of events and in-game items await the returning adventurer. EverQuest players are invited to "celebrate their hardcore heritage" with hot zones that give a 25% bonus to already-increased XP, free armor and weapons that will "get players up to speed" with their fellows, and even special trinkets if you convert to a paying customer. EQ2 players have as much, if not more, to look forward to with a full calendar of events ongoing throughout the summer. They've also got recruitment rewards, unique in-game items, and much more.

Read below for the full details on both programs, and check back with Massively.com for interviews with EQ senior producer Clint Worley, EQ senior designer Ryan Barker, and EQ2 senior producer Bruce Ferguson on this momentous initiative. You can also see the full Living Legacy trailer embedded below the cut.

Continue reading SOE's Living Legacy campaign gives you 2 free months in EQ and EQ2

MassivelySOE's Living Legacy campaign gives you 2 free months in EQ and EQ2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingeqeq2everquesteverquest-2living-legacysoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 02 Jun 2008 13:45:00 EST