Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Five ways LotRO should be streamlined]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/19/the-road-to-mordor-five-ways-lotro-should-be-streamlined/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/19/the-road-to-mordor-five-ways-lotro-should-be-streamlined/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/19/the-road-to-mordor-five-ways-lotro-should-be-streamlined/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
You would think that growth and expansion is nothing but a good thing for MMOs -- after all, those are the hallmarks of the genre. But as these games get bigger, issues emerge as the developers add new zones, features, and systems. In short, maturing MMOs gravitate toward complexity, and this can have an adverse effect on the game as a whole.

The problem is that there is eventually too much a brand-new player has to absorb and master, not to mention the hassle of rolling alts and having to navigate all of that content once more. If developers don't stay on top of the situation, then the game starts to lose overall cohesion and becomes a befuddling mess.

With three expansions and numerous updates under its belt, Lord of the Rings Online is venturing deep into this territory. I have friends who are leveling up for the first time and finding themselves overwhelmed with everything that needs doing as well as all the systems that are not clearly explained. So today I want to play backseat developer and talk about five ways that LotRO should be streamlined for the good of all players, old and new.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Five ways LotRO should be streamlined

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Five ways LotRO should be streamlined originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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With summer almost upon us, the fair free folk of Middle-earth are gearing up for the largest player-organized in-game event of the year: Weatherstock 2011! Lord of the Rings Online adventurers from around the world will flock to the summit of Weathertop in the Lone-lands on the Landroval server to hear nine excellent outfits perform in an epic Battle of the Bands.

A Casual Stroll to Mordor has all of the essential details for this event, which runs from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. EDT on Saturday, June 18th. Among those contributing to the concert are The Green Hill Music Society, The Breakfast Club, and The Blackheart Pirates. Each band will perform a trio of songs (plus a possible encore) in an effort to take home one of three awards.

Weatherstock is made possible by LotRO's unique music system, which allows players to compose and perform songs with a variety of instruments. This is always a fun event, and the LotRO Lorebook has additional information for those attending (hint: turn off names!). Mark this on your calendar so that you don't miss the excellent tunes!

MassivelyLotRO musicians prepare for Weatherstock 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-casual-stroll-to-mordorbandsbattle-of-the-bandbattle-of-the-bandsconcertcstmgreen-hill-music-societyin-game-eventlandrovallone-landslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotromusicmusic-systemplayer-eventplayer-eventsplayer-run-eventthe-blackheart-piratesthe-breakfast-clubturbineturbine-entertainmentweatherstockweatherstock-2011weathertopwoodstockSun, 05 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Luck be a lady tonight]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/the-road-to-mordor-luck-be-a-lady-tonight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/the-road-to-mordor-luck-be-a-lady-tonight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/the-road-to-mordor-luck-be-a-lady-tonight/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

During this past week in the wild world of Lord of the Rings Online, we were treated to a snippet of exceptionally good news: The LotRO lotteries are back.

Some of you might be indifferent to this news, some might be overjoyed, and some -- I'm guessing -- are totally puzzled about what this all means. Considering how many new players have immigrated to LotRO this year and how long the lottos have been out of commission (several months now), it wouldn't surprise me if a player hadn't even heard of these at all.

Simply put, the lotteries are a "for fun" bonus that Turbine implemented to give all players a chance to win some nifty in-game items. These winnings can include anything from beer to gold to housing items to mounts. It really depends on your luck and how generous the devs are feeling any given week. Some of the lottos have huge payouts, while others deliver prizes as silly and paltry as a single lump of coal.

So if you're new to the LotRO lotteries -- or just need a refresher course -- hit the jump and let's suss this thing out!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Luck be a lady tonight

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Luck be a lady tonight originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beerf2pfree-to-playgreen-beerlord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotrolotro-lotterylotterylottery-widgetlottolottosmylotromylotro.comsapiencethe-road-to-mordorturbineTurbine-Entertainmentvipwelcome-wagonFri, 24 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Hillmen of LotRO's Ost Crithlanc want to kill you: read about it]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/the-hillmen-of-lotros-ost-crithlanc-want-to-kill-you-read-abou/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/the-hillmen-of-lotros-ost-crithlanc-want-to-kill-you-read-abou/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/the-hillmen-of-lotros-ost-crithlanc-want-to-kill-you-read-abou/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Angmar is the source of most of the evil of the Shadows of Angmar volume of The Lord of the Rings Online. It's home to the Witch-king of (you guessed it) Angmar, the right-hand man of the Dark Lord Sauron. So it probably won't be surpassed in pure evilness (at least not lore-wise) until Mordor is added to the game in, oh, 10 years or so.

Turbine's LotRO Lorebook has been updated with an entry for Ost Crithlanc, some ruins at the border of Angmar (all bad) and the North Downs (only mostly bad). The ruins have been seized by an army of Witch-king-serving Hillmen who are preparing to sweep through Eriador and slaughter everyone -- even those cute little hobbits. God, they're evil.

The Lorebook has a little more detail on this Turbine-created, Tolkien-inspired location, along with a few pretty neat images. Enjoy!

MassivelyThe Hillmen of LotRO's Ost Crithlanc want to kill you: read about it originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We've always enjoyed Turbine's regular The Lord of the Rings Online Lorebook updates. The Lorebook is essentially a wiki that contains both gameplay information and Middle-earth lore. Some of the entries are made by players, and some are official. They usually focus on a particular character or place that Turbine has extrapolated or expanded from J.R.R. Tolkien's book trilogy.

The North American LotRO site hadn't been updated with any featured Lorebook entries in a while, but a couple new ones have finally arrived. First up is Bolgrukh -- a half-woman, half-bat horror who picks of hapless adventurers near Carn Dum. Apparently she was enslaved by Morgoth, and if you know your Middle-earth lore, you know that makes her really old. And old monsters are usually scarier than young ones!

The second entry is the Rogmul (Balrog slave) Udúnion, a level 52 Nemesis boss who will most certainly annihilate almost everyone he ever sees. He too is extremely old; the entry lists several historical events he's witnessed. And you know something's badass when its classifications are "Ancient Evil" and "Nameless." Fear!

MassivelyLotRO Lorebook updates players on ancient horrors originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-evilbalrogbatbat-womanbolgrukhcarn-dumcodemasterslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelorebooklotronameless-fearrogmulturbineudnionThu, 28 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's Lorebook updated with Champion class guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/lotros-lorebook-updated-with-champion-class-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/lotros-lorebook-updated-with-champion-class-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/lotros-lorebook-updated-with-champion-class-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


One of the great online tools for Lord of the Rings Online players is LotRO's recently updated official wiki, The Lorebook. Being a wiki, player contributions were requested and lately the Lorebook has seen more than minor edits. Players who enjoy writing up extensive play guides on the forums are now getting their work spotlighted on the wiki as well.

The latest contribution is a guide to the DPS class, the Champion, by player Aceeka. It's quite an extensive overview of the class covering equipment choices, stances, traits, playstyle and more. It even explores the heavily debated racial skills and how those impact the class.

The other excellent class guide in this section of the Lorebook is the brilliant "What we wish other classes knew about the Champion." Every class has one of these threads in the official forums, but it's great to see this one ensconced on the Lorebook as well. As soon as the Lorebook becomes available in-game, we're going to point every pick up group to this article.

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online Book 14 Gallery

MassivelyLotRO's Lorebook updated with Champion class guide originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championclass-guideguideguide-to-championslorebooklotrolotro-wikiturbineWed, 30 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's Gaunt-lords will scare the bejeesus out of you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/lotros-gaunt-lords-will-scare-the-bejeesus-out-of-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/lotros-gaunt-lords-will-scare-the-bejeesus-out-of-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/lotros-gaunt-lords-will-scare-the-bejeesus-out-of-you/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Making it into the Lord of the Rings Online lorebook this week are the supremely evil Gaunt-lords. Beginning their lives -- err, their "undeath" -- as Gaunt-men, they moved throughout Middle-earth in service to Morgoth, raising wights as they went. It was only later on, when serving the Witch-king, that five of these Gaunt-men became Gaunt-lords, to match the power of the Wizards aiding the Free Peoples.

Donning their sinister crowned helms and peering with hollow eyes, the five Gaunt-lords stand for death, famine, pestilence, war, and evil. Approaching these powerful foes will strike fear into any adventurer's heart, and great courage will be required from those attempting to dispatch them. Find out more about the Gaunt-lords history at their new lore page.

MassivelyLotRO's Gaunt-lords will scare the bejeesus out of you originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 21 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-peoplesgaunt-lordsgaunt-menlord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotrolotro-lorebookmorgothturbinewizardsSat, 21 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The LotRO lorebook gains a real estate agent]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/15/the-lotro-lorebook-gains-a-real-estate-agent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/15/the-lotro-lorebook-gains-a-real-estate-agent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/15/the-lotro-lorebook-gains-a-real-estate-agent/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Well, only peripherally. Badennas is an elf who helps players work on their first home in Eriador. She gives players quests when they feel it's time to put down roots and become valued members of the community. Why does she do it? According to the lorebook, "Badennas has delayed her departure from Middle-earth twice out of love for the lands she calls home. She has taken on many responsibilities for the good of her neighbors, including the procurement of materials needed to build more housing." In other words, she's just a hell of a woman.

The Lord of the Rings Online lorebook grows in content with each addition, and as you can see, there is no one personage who is any less worthy of inclusion than any other. We salute you, Badennas! May your eventual journey to the West be an uneventful one!

MassivelyThe LotRO lorebook gains a real estate agent originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>badennaslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotrolotro-lorebookSun, 15 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Man (or Woman)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/blogging-into-mordor-finding-the-perfect-name-for-your-man-or/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/blogging-into-mordor-finding-the-perfect-name-for-your-man-or/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/08/blogging-into-mordor-finding-the-perfect-name-for-your-man-or/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



Having the most available classes and arguably the best racial abilities in The Lord of the Rings Online, the Race of Man is also the most popular. So it can be hard to find a decent name for your human. Everyone wants to be a hero, for their character to be great and achieve fame and glory. But can you do this without naming your character "Aragorrn" or "Boromier"? You bet! This guide will take you through finding the perfect first name and surname for your man or woman.

Unlike the other races, a member of the Race of Man's name relies heavily on its origin/nationality. A man from Dale's name is going to sound nothing like the name of a man from Bree. The conventions for both the first names and surnames are highly varied between each culture. This is mostly due to the fact that men live such short lives and live so far away from each other, and also due to war, which has separated members of the race greatly. The cultures of the four nationalities are so varied that if you want a lore-appropriate name for role-playing, you will have to choose the name first based on your character's chosen nationality. With the other races, this isn't as important.

Continue reading Blogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Man (or Woman)

MassivelyBlogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Man (or Woman) originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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According to Turbine's most recently highlighted The Lord of the Rings Online Lorebook entry, even Ents can turn to the proverbial dark side. One might think that even if they did, it would take them such a long time to work out how to kill you that they wouldn't be much of a threat. Unfortunately, you'll hear a different story from anyone who's faced the dour-root -- or Huorn, as some call it -- in Agamaur.

To be more specific, the monster is an Elite Master boss encounter in the Lone-lands' Garth Agarwen instance. It's probably not the first killer tree encountered by most LotRO players. That honor most likely goes to the Warped Oaks in the Old Forest.

MassivelyLorebook tells tales of Ents gone bad originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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When The Lord of the Rings Online players think of the Chetwood, they usually think first of the Blackwold brigands. Most quests in the area are focused on that humanoid nuisance. But something far darker lurks in the Chetwood -- Baugurch, the vicious warg who terrorizes the nightmares of lowbies everywhere! Err, okay, just lowbies in the Chetwood.

Baugurch is the subject of Turbine's latest featured Lorebook article. Sure, this named mob is only level 15, but even the low level nasties have to have a history in LotRO. Plus, he's elite, so it's special. Apparently Baugurch originally hailed (or growled, one imagines) from Angmar. Our guess is that the Angmarrim kicked him out for being too low level.

If you're from Europe, don't forget; you can finally contribute to the Lorebook fun with your LotRO login and password.

MassivelyNamed warg terrorizes Lorebook originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 May 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angmarbaugurchchetwoodlord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotroturbinewargSat, 31 May 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lorebook opens to European subscribers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/lorebook-opens-to-european-subscribers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/lorebook-opens-to-european-subscribers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/lorebook-opens-to-european-subscribers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Lorebook is one of The Lord of the Rings Online's best features, even though it isn't in the game. It's a community-moderated wiki containing vast amounts of information about LotRO's world and, of course, lore. Unfortunately, European players have never been able to fully participate. They could view the contents, but not edit them.

That's changed. European players may now use their login names and passwords to edit Lorebook entries. If you've been itching to take part in the conversation, head on over. But be aware; for the moment only English-language entries are accepted. Also, the Lorebook does not yet contain European server listings. No word has been given on when those will come.

MassivelyLorebook opens to European subscribers originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 May 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementenglisheuropeloginlord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotroturbinewikiFri, 30 May 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's Smeagol is sneakin' in the Lorebook]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/lotros-smeagol-is-sneakin-in-the-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/lotros-smeagol-is-sneakin-in-the-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/25/lotros-smeagol-is-sneakin-in-the-lorebook/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Lord of the Rings Online's Book 11 introduced Gollum as a character with whom players could interact. His cameo appearance was a fun addition, albeit a minor one. Turbine hasn't forgotten him, though; he's the subject of the Lorebook entry most recently featured at the official LotRO website.

The entry tells the "sad and perilous" tale of an innocent little fellow who was consumed by his "precious" -- the One Ring which at first seemed pretty and innocent, but which drove him to murder. We all know the ring is neither pretty nor innocent. As Gandalf said: "it wants to be found," and the one who's looking for it is none too pleasant.

Gollum is one of the classic characters in English language literature. And if you're a fan of the movies as well as the books, then you'll surely agree that Gollum is the greatest CGI character in film history. Don't even get us started with that Jar Jar guy.

MassivelyLotRO's Smeagol is sneakin' in the Lorebook originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 May 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Looking for a name for your little halfling? Unwilling to settle for "Frodow" "Samwizze" or "Bihlbo"? Have you already named your character one of these but are looking to change it to something decent and lore-abiding? This guide will help you to find the perfect name for your hobbit and avoid the wrath incurred when you turn on your role-playing flag with the name "Kneestabberxx". You will also find tips on choosing a surname. If you've already named your hobbit but are looking to construct an interesting back-story, this guide might be useful to you as well!

J. R. R. Tolkien gave each different race and culture in the game its own customs and naming systems. Looking at the names of different hobbits can tell you things about them -- where they might have been born, what family they might be a part of. This gives you the opportunity to give your character a back-story if you wish, though simply using this guide to choose a cool name is good as well. And there is nothing wrong with taking some of the names here and using them in other games! Always make sure to read the naming guidelines of whatever game you play so that you do not break any rules and face punishment. In The Lord of the Rings Online, using a name that is even close to a character from the lore (such as Frodo, Lobelia, or Pippin) is strictly against the rules. So if you want a name that sounds hobbity and not a violation of the rules, you have to get creative. Luckily, Tolkien himself was creative and named enough of these creatures to give us an idea of how to do it!

Even after reading this guide remember that the best name is the one you enjoy seeing and think fits your character, no matter how much you play it. What you think of your hobbit's name is more important than what other people think as long as it doesn't violate the naming conditions of your game.

Continue reading Blogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Hobbit.

MassivelyBlogging into Mordor: Finding the perfect name for your Hobbit. originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 May 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredhalflinghobbitlord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelorebooklotronamingnaming-policyshiretolkienturbineFri, 23 May 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Two more Dwarves take their places in the LotRO lorebook]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/two-more-dwarves-take-their-places-in-the-lotro-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/two-more-dwarves-take-their-places-in-the-lotro-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/two-more-dwarves-take-their-places-in-the-lotro-lorebook/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Lord of the Rings Online lorebook has had another two worthy additions over the last few days, with updates being added for Flosi the prospector and Dori, formerly one of Thorin Oakenshield's thirteen companions. Although not particularly famous in the Lord of the Rings lore, the name Flosi should ring a bell for many players, as he is located near the frequently visited Thorin's Hall. He is involved in some low level quests, and those wanting to find out a bit more about a familiar face can visit his new lorebook page.

Dori will likely need less of an introduction for LotR fans, as he and his brothers Ori and Nori were involved in the adventures of one Bilbo Baggins -- often reluctantly, as the inexperienced Hobbit caused a fair bit of extra trouble for the party. In LotRO, he can be found at the Othrikar outpost in the North Downs, and players exploring this area may end up assisting him with his mission there. You can check out his newly added page at the lorebook.

MassivelyTwo more Dwarves take their places in the LotRO lorebook originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 May 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bilbo-bagginsdoriflosilord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotrolotro-lorebooknorinorth-downsoriothrikarthorinthorin-oakenshieldthorins-hallturbineThu, 15 May 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The mysterious River-maiden Goldberry gets a Lorebook page]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/the-mysterious-river-maiden-goldberry-gets-a-lorebook-page/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/the-mysterious-river-maiden-goldberry-gets-a-lorebook-page/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/the-mysterious-river-maiden-goldberry-gets-a-lorebook-page/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ahh, the Old Forest. Lord of the Rings Online players have mixed emotions about this area: fear, respect, probably a very healthy portion of loathing as they stumble around in circles for far too long trying to get through it. It is here that you may stumble upon Goldberry, who has just been given her own page in the Lorebook.

Goldberry is a River-maiden, but no one really knows what a River-maiden is. Appearance-wise, they resemble the races of Man and Elf, but much about them remains a mystery. Goldberry is married to Tom Bombadil, but only after failing to capture him once and having him come back to her later on -- if at first you don't succeed, hey? Bombadil is all kinds of crazy, so a visit to these two in the Old Forest is sure to yield some fun quests. You can view Goldberry's new lorebook page to find out a bit about the tasks she has for you, and also see the map of her location, if it's any help at all in the unforgiving forest.

MassivelyThe mysterious River-maiden Goldberry gets a Lorebook page originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In releasing Book 13 on its one-year anniversary, the Lord of the Rings Online finishes off its first year with five large content updates, known as Books. In addition to new epic storylines, the lore progressed significantly this past year as new Books were added. Let's take a look at all the changes made since April 24, 2007.

The game began with eight questing zones and one player-versus-monster-player zone as well as seven classes and 10 crafting professions. It also launched many promises from the developers for much-demanded features such as player-owned houses and Fishing.

At this point it was very difficult to reach the level cap of 50 due to a lack of significant content in the level 30-50 range, which Turbine promised to address. And that promise materialized with the first free content patch.

Find out what Book 9 brought to the game ===>>

MassivelyThe Lord of the Rings Online's one-year anniversary: A look back originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>book-10book-11book-12book-9epic-quest-lineevendimfeaturedforocheljoystiqfeatureslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotrolotro-book-13rivendelltrollshawsturbineThu, 24 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your Kinship into the LotRO lorebook]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/get-your-kinship-into-the-lotro-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/get-your-kinship-into-the-lotro-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/get-your-kinship-into-the-lotro-lorebook/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


A post has been made on the Lord of the Rings Online forums with the intent of raising awareness of the Kinship facilities of the Lorebook. Not many Kinships have made use of this feature yet, but the number should dramatically increase following this reminder, and the fact that Kinship listings will no longer be stickied on the forums.

A Kinship page can be filled with everything that interested applicants need to know, and you can slot yourself into categories like server, type or theme. Logos can be uploaded, and there is an external links section which can lead to an official Kinship website. Visit the base Kinship page to get started with creating, and scroll down to see the categories of existing pages. The forum post also contains some quick links to server-specific Kinship listings on the Lorebook.

MassivelyGet your Kinship into the LotRO lorebook originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Apr 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communityforumskinkinshipslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotroturbineFri, 18 Apr 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dwalin, Master of Thorin's Hall, enters the lorebook]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/dwalin-master-of-thorins-hall-enters-the-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/dwalin-master-of-thorins-hall-enters-the-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/dwalin-master-of-thorins-hall-enters-the-lorebook/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dwalin hardly needs an introduction, but it's good to see that the latest update to the Lord of the Rings Online lorebook is a page devoted to this famous Dwarf. He is currently the Master of Thorin's Hall, and since he is involved in many story lines, adventurers of all levels will likely have made the trip up the long stairs to his throne.

He was first sent to Thorin's Hall by King Dáin Ironfoot to find out why the Master at the time had stopped paying tribute to Erebor, and ended up discovering an evil Dourhand scheme. He stayed on as the new Master, and continues to watch over the area. Of course, Dwalin will be remembered most as one of Thorin Oakenshield's party, along with his brother Balin and a few other notable companions. Take a look at the new lorebook entry to find out more about Dwalin, and some of the quests that he plays a part in.

MassivelyDwalin, Master of Thorin's Hall, enters the lorebook originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Apr 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balindwalinking-dain-ironfootlorebooklotromaster-of-thorins-hallthorin-oakenshieldthorins-hallturbineThu, 03 Apr 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Ranger Amdir featured in latest lorebook entry]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/the-ranger-amdir-featured-in-latest-lorebook-entry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/the-ranger-amdir-featured-in-latest-lorebook-entry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/the-ranger-amdir-featured-in-latest-lorebook-entry/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Amdir, a Ranger found in the town of Archet, is the subject of an update to the Lord of the Rings Online lorebook.
The Nazgûl entering the Shire seemed to cause an increase in the Blackwold brigand troubles in Bree-land, and so Amdir was sent to Archet to investigate. Here he attended to the problem of some missing Hobbits, and got himself deep into some nasty business because of it.

He should be familiar to those whose adventure began in Archet, and he is featured in both the Hobbit and Man starting instances, as well as the Epic prologue quest for Bree-land. Without giving too much away, we'll say that he is very involved in this storyline. View the lorebook entry to see some of the quests he's involved with, and the map of his location.

MassivelyThe Ranger Amdir featured in latest lorebook entry originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tâl Bruinen is the focus of a new article in the Lord of the Rings Online lorebook, and we get to find out why the area is so uninhabited. Once upon a time, there were many small settlements in Tâl Bruinen (which is located in The Trollshaws, south of Rivendell). Now only a few camps of fisherman and adventurers remain, but it's no great mystery -- ask yourself if you would stick around when your home is the subject of repeated Troll-raids.

These Trolls are still around, but there are other nasties now as well to make sure that no one feels like moving back -- Orcs, worms, and Gauredain stop most people from feeling safe enough to settle down in the area. However, it's not all bad, as those in the low 40's will find plenty to kill and a few quests to boot. View the lorebook entry for more screenies and the usual map.

MassivelyLotRO lorebook update features Tâl Bruinen originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gauredainlorebooklotrotal-bruinenthe-trollshawstrollstrollshawsturbineWed, 26 Mar 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rally against the Dourhands of Sarnúr]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/rally-against-the-dourhands-of-sarnur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/rally-against-the-dourhands-of-sarnur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/rally-against-the-dourhands-of-sarnur/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Lord of the Rings Online site has been updated with a new area, the Dourhand dwelling of Sarnúr. After the Dourhands were driven from Thorin's Hall by the Longbeards, they came across the ruins of one of their ancestor's cities, gave it a new name and settled in there. Here they dwell, preparing for assaults on the Dwarves to the north and the Elves to the south.

Sarnúr is a popular area to earn reputation with Thorin's Hall, with the Dourhands there commonly dropping reputation hand-in items. It is a higher level area, intended for mid to upper 40's, and there are some good grinding deeds there not only for the Dourhands, but also the beasts and Trolls that inhabit the ruined city. It's an easy dungeon to reach, just east of Noglond, with almost no high level mobs to run through to reach the entrance. Check out the new lorebook entry to find out more and use the interactive map that plots the area's location.

MassivelyRally against the Dourhands of Sarnúr originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Mar 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dourhandduillondlongbeardslorebooklotronoglondreputationsarnurthorins-hallturbineTue, 25 Mar 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The shady Harry Goatleaf featured on LotRO's lorebook]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/23/the-shady-harry-goatleaf-featured-on-lotros-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/23/the-shady-harry-goatleaf-featured-on-lotros-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/23/the-shady-harry-goatleaf-featured-on-lotros-lorebook/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Next trip to Bree, visit old Harry Goatleaf at the West-gate. The Lord of the Rings Online lorebook has been updated to include an entry for this dodgy individual, and details his connections with various groups of ill-repute. With no actual criminal evidence against him, and with Chief Watcher Grimbriar needing all the help he can get with the city's defense, Harry has managed to keep his position watching the gate through all the rumors.

He did at one point meet with Frodo and his party, in The Lord of the Rings, letting them into the city. The lorebook entry hints that, although nothing about him can be proven to this point, he may live up to his infamous reputation yet in LotRO.

MassivelyThe shady Harry Goatleaf featured on LotRO's lorebook originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 23 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breechief-watcher-grimbriargoatleafgrimbriarharry-goatleaflorebooklotroturbinewest-gateSun, 23 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO lorebook examines Halbarad, North Downs hero]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/12/lotro-lorebook-examines-halbarad-north-downs-hero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/12/lotro-lorebook-examines-halbarad-north-downs-hero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/12/lotro-lorebook-examines-halbarad-north-downs-hero/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A new character of Middle-earth has stepped into the Lord of the Rings Online lorebook spotlight. Halbarad is a key figure in the North Downs, and helps to coordinate the defense against the forces of Angmar from his central location of Esteldin. He plays many parts in the story of LotRO's Book III, and has strong ties with a famous fellow named Aragorn.

Those who have read The Lord of the Rings may recall that Halbarad was the leader of the Grey Company that meets up with Aragorn in Rohan. The lorebook lists his class as unknown, stating that he possesses the skills of both a warrior and a lore-master. Take a look at Halbarad's detailed entry to find out more about this significant character, and the quests he is involved in.

MassivelyLotRO lorebook examines Halbarad, North Downs hero originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Mar 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aragornbook-3esteldinhalbaradlord-of-the-ringslorebooklotrlotronorth-downsWed, 12 Mar 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Delving into the monster den of Haudh Iarchith]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/delving-into-the-monster-den-of-haudh-iarchith/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/delving-into-the-monster-den-of-haudh-iarchith/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/delving-into-the-monster-den-of-haudh-iarchith/#commentsFiled under: , ,

West of Bree lies the Ranger haven of the Barrow-downs. At least it used to be a haven, until a plague swooped over the land of Middle-earth and obliterated it along with the Dúnedain. After the brave Rangers were all but gone, the Witch-king ordered his fell spirits to inhabit the remains of the dead buried in the ground -- creating the terrifying Barrow-wights.

There are some places within the Barrow-downs that are widely known as being worse than any other within the region. One of these places is Haudh larchith, an old clan-barrow of a rich and powerful family -- it now serves as nothing more than a dungeon, quite literally. This is actually an instanced dungeon for Lord of the Rings Online, where players able to handle some foul, creepy wights and seeking to improve their standing with the Rangers can do just that.

We're not afraid of wights, the only thing that scares us are bats, aliens, ghosts, ghost-bats and ghost-aliens.

MassivelyDelving into the monster den of Haudh Iarchith originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A new Lord of the Rings Online Lorebook entry is up and focuses on a character this time around. Glóin is a Dwarven fire-maker who traveled with Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit, however he is also featured in the later the Lord of the Rings trilogy as well -- lets not forget he's also the father of Gimli. In LotRO, he can be found holding down his fort against the Dourhands in the Misty Mountains. The reason for his presence there is to clear out the Dourhands so that the passage through the mountains would be safe. Although such work really has no end, which is why many quests await players who travel to the fortress.

This new Lorebook entry not only gives us a google map location of Glóin, but it also breaks down the quests that he's involved with -- which is incredibly cool.

MassivelyLorebook entry spotlights fire-master Glóin, father of Gimli originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Mar 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gloingoogle-mapslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotromisty-mountainsthe-hobbitthe-lord-of-the-ringsturbineWed, 05 Mar 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at Goblin-town in the Misty Mountains]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/a-look-at-goblin-town-in-the-misty-mountains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/a-look-at-goblin-town-in-the-misty-mountains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/a-look-at-goblin-town-in-the-misty-mountains/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Lord of the Rings Online lorebook has been updated with a page devoted to Goblin-town. You won't have been there before unless you are nearing the maximum level, as the area is teeming with dangerous and seasoned goblins, and is reached by going through the perilous Misty Mountains.

Lore buffs will recognize that Goblin-town was the backdrop for a momentous event in Lord of the Rings history, as the lorebook entry explains, for it is here that Bilbo Baggins fell into Gollum's cavern and found an extremely important object -- yep, that one. It is also where Gandalf defeated the Great Goblin to save Thorin Oakenshield's party. These bits of lore may give you the urge to visit Goblin-town, but the goblins aren't going to help show you around, so be prepared to fight.

MassivelyA look at Goblin-town in the Misty Mountains originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A different kind of lorebook entry has gone up under the Lord of the Rings Online site's points of interest series. It's not a look at one of the game's many locations -- this time, we get to meet two characters, Bob and Nob, that inhabit the game.

Bob and Nob are two hobbits that help out Barliman Butterbur in running the famous Prancing Pony Inn. Butterbur is absent-minded and a tad incompetent, so a lot of responsibility falls on his assistants to ensure that business is taken care of. In-game, you'll find Nob just outside the Prancing Pony, and Bob is inside in the kitchen, and you can read more about them at the new lorebook entry before your visit.

MassivelyLotRO lorebook updated with Bob and Nob originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A new Lord of the Rings Online lorebook entry has been posted to the game's website, with the focus being the Vale of Thrain. The Vale of Thrain is found in Ered Luin, south of Thorin's Gate, and is a low level area that is situated near both the Elf and Dwarf starting locations. Two quest hubs can be found in the area: Nogrond, a way-point, and Gondamon, a fortress down at the southern end of the Vale.

The Dourhand Dwarves and goblins that inhabit the area have hindered trading efforts along the central road, and there are opportunities for an enterprising adventurer to assist the locals with this problem. Visit the lorebook entry to find out more about the area and see a couple more screenshots.

MassivelyLotRO spotlight on the Vale of Thrain originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dourhanddourhand-dwarvesered-luinlorebooklotropoint-of-interestturbinevale-of-thrainSun, 24 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Angmarim fortress exposed by new Lorebook entry]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/angmarim-fortress-exposed-by-new-lorebook-entry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/angmarim-fortress-exposed-by-new-lorebook-entry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/angmarim-fortress-exposed-by-new-lorebook-entry/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A new lorebook entry has graced the official Lord of the Rings Online website, this one focusing on Rhunendin. Long ago when the hosts of Angmar were driven from the North-kingdom, the they were scattered to the wind. Even though the Angmarim numbers were few, time was on their side. The many years that would pass gave these scattered remnants time to re-multiply into a strong force.

Continue reading Angmarim fortress exposed by new Lorebook entry

MassivelyAngmarim fortress exposed by new Lorebook entry originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There's a new The Lord of the Rings Online Lorebook entry that should interest would-be Tomb Raiders in virtual Middle-earth. Turbine has pointed the lore spotlight at Men Erain, a structure near Annúminas in Evendim. As usual, two very attractive screenshots are included with the new entry.

Men Erain has for centuries served as the tomb for the royalty of the now-fallen Western kingdom of Arnor, who ruled from the nearby city of Annúminas. Those kings were heirs of Isildur, the man who cut the ring from Sauron's hand. Now the tomb has been looted, but it may yet hold some secrets to be discovered.

By now you could look up all the featured Lorebook locations and spend about three weeks going on an unbelievably geeky lore pilgrimage, if you're into that sort of thing.

MassivelyLorebook raids the tomb at Men Erain originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Feb 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Over at the official website for Lord of The Rings Online there's another tasty Lorebook entry for lore-junkies to enjoy. Sporting the Google-powered map as usual, the entry is about Bonfire Glade -- a clearing within the dark and foreboding Old Forest.

There's a legend saying that the trees from the forest attacked Buckland and in retaliation the Brandybucks' invaded the Old Forest -- where they cut down many trees and created a large bonfire. The Glade which it created still exists now, making sure to remind those today of the terrible events from the past.

We can't seem to get enough of these Lorebook entries, they're a great way to learn more about the world of LotRO in nice little chunks. It's especially nice that they seem rather consistent, because if they were to stop suddenly we might find ourselves suffering from withdrawal!

MassivelyA Lorebook look into Middle-earth: Bonfire Glade originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Lord of the Rings Online points of interest series takes us on a trip to the Blue Mountains this time around, and to Blue Stone Garrison. Dwalin and his company established Blue Stone Garrison to help protect against Ered Luin goblin and Dourhand Dwarf attacks. The Dourhands in particular are always causing trouble in the area, and that's where you come in.

A visit to Blue Stone Garrison will show you that the Blue Mountain Dwarves stationed there need assistance, and aren't afraid to ask any travelers that pass through. Helping them out will result in positive gains with the Blue Mountain Dwarf faction, so there's some extra incentive to lend a hand. Take a look at some more screenshots and information on the mountain stronghold at the lorebook entry.

MassivelyAid the Blue Mountain Dwarves at Blue Stone Garrison originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The long awaited Book 12 content patch has hit Roheryn, the Lord of the Ring's Online test server today. The lengthy patch notes are available on LotRO's official wiki, the Lorebook.

The Ashen Wastes, as this patch is called, offers no new adventure area, but revamps the existing high level outdoor zone, Angmar. The area got a big polish to smooth out quest progression, mob level dispersion and general flow and playability. Honestly, the zone needed it in a bad way, but since many players are at the level cap was this done for alts or new players? We're glad to see this clunky zone get the dev loving it needed before the game launched, but we're not sure how much of the player population will get to appreciate it.

Class revamps continue with three classes getting the once over:
  • Guardians are getting a DPS stance for faster soloing as well as a mixed bag of nerfs and buffs to their bread-and-butter tanking ability with a sprinkle of new utility skills.
  • Burglars, the debuff class, are getting a new buff that affects many of their existing crowd control skills, new abilities to use after a successful Fellowship Maneuver and the ability to bring a friend into stealth. Plus, clubs!
  • Champions, the melee dps and off-tank class, are getting a new stance that balances offense and defense skills. Also, their tanking stance is being granted at an earlier level and many of their Legendary skills are getting reworked.
The LotRO devs tend to do more good than harm with class revamps. There's some guarded optimism by the classes affected. Once the changes go live and players have a chance to try them we'll see if the tweaks have the desired effect.

In addition to all that, there is the new Outfit System and Barbershop functionality, the reintroduction (again) of Troll/Ranger PvMP combat, the introduction of the Ettendeep (a new large PvMP dungeon), and, of course, the continuation of the Epic Story quest line.

There is a metric ton of other patch notes to go through including small changes to almost all classes and tradeskills, new housing features, improvements to repuation gain and much needed relief for those farming for their Legendary pages. And let's not forget new tools to fight the brazen and ever present gold spammers.

We'll have more analysis as we dig into the Test server.

MassivelyLotRO Book 12 patch notes land on the test server originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Jan 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angmarashen-wastesbarbershopbook-12ettendeeplegendary-pageslorebooklotromonth-of-the-burglarmonth-of-the-championmonth-of-the-guardianoutfit-systemtroll-ranger-pvmpturbineMon, 21 Jan 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lorebook spotlights Gamgee handiwork at Bag End]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/lorebook-spotlights-gamgee-handiwork-at-bag-end/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/lorebook-spotlights-gamgee-handiwork-at-bag-end/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/20/lorebook-spotlights-gamgee-handiwork-at-bag-end/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Most of us love Hobbits. Really, how could we not? These are people for whom pie-eating is a cornerstone of society. It's hard not to be envious of that laid-back lifestyle.

And few Hobbits have lived more comfortably and extravagantly than Bilbo Baggins, the old proprietor of Bag End. His adventures with Gandalf and the Dwarves netted him a personal fortune, and he spent no small part of that fortune on his gardens.

Those gardens -- maintained by Ham Gamgee and his son Samwise -- are the subject of the most recent featured article in LotRO's Lorebook. Sneak up to Turbine's window and start droppin' eaves to learn more!

MassivelyLorebook spotlights Gamgee handiwork at Bag End originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bag-endbaggingsbilboexploring-middle-earthfrodogaffergamgeegardenslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelorebooklotroturbineThu, 20 Dec 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lorebook describes things older and fouler than orcs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/lorebook-describes-things-older-and-fouler-than-orcs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/lorebook-describes-things-older-and-fouler-than-orcs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/lorebook-describes-things-older-and-fouler-than-orcs/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Another Lorebook entry has been featured on the official Lord of the Rings Online website. This time we get to learn a bit about the Rogmul -- a monster found in high-level encounters.

While Turbine has worked hard to stay as faithful to Tolkien's literature as is practical, they've had to extrapolate a few new things from the texts to fill up the game world. For example; the Neeker-Beekers of the Midgewater Marshes are based on an odd sound described in one one line from the books.

The Rogmul are also a Turbine invention. They're lesser demons that serve the Balrogs. "Wherever a Balrog is or once was," says the Lorebook, "it can be wagered that a Romgul or two is not far away."

MassivelyLorebook describes things older and fouler than orcs originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balrogdemonslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelorebooklotromobsmonstersmoriaromgulspiritsturbineMon, 17 Dec 2007 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO Lorebook now includes item effects]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/lotro-lorebook-now-includes-item-effects/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/lotro-lorebook-now-includes-item-effects/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/14/lotro-lorebook-now-includes-item-effects/#commentsFiled under: ,

Is that a sword? Luxury!
Turbine have updated the Lord of the Rings Online Lorebook again, and this time it's something awesome: the Lorebook now features full item effects.

Hurrah! This is a great step to making the Lorebook really useful, rather than just for... well, lore. Further updates are planned -- according to Aylwyne, item set pages have been implemented, and will be going into the Lorebook shortly after the holidays. One minor problem with the item effects currently, though: if an item has a use effect, the cooldown is listed properly but not what the use effect actually does. You'll have to look elsewhere for that.

MassivelyLotRO Lorebook now includes item effects originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aylwynecooldownsitem-effectsitemslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorebooklotroturbineFri, 14 Dec 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO Lorebook features guide on using the Advanced Search function]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/09/lotro-lorebook-features-guide-on-using-the-advanced-search-funct/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/09/lotro-lorebook-features-guide-on-using-the-advanced-search-funct/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/09/lotro-lorebook-features-guide-on-using-the-advanced-search-funct/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


There is a feature guide at Lord of the Rings Online's Lorebook on using the advanced search function to peruse the wealth of information available there. You might ask yourself, why do I need a guide on running a search? Well the truth is, you probably don't -- the sign of a good search is its simplicity of use.

The benefit of the guide is in letting people know that the advanced search exists. It is a recently implemented feature, and with more information being added to the lorebook on a regular basis, it certainly comes in handy. The categories you can search in are Weapons, Armor, Quests, Deeds, Traits, NPCs, and Recipes. Following this, you can narrow your search down some more with other options that are based on the category. The pictured example shows an advanced search for Recipes, Tier 2, and Scholar.

Although the lorebook is incomplete, the advanced search is a useful addition to the site, and you can give it a spin here.

MassivelyLotRO Lorebook features guide on using the Advanced Search function originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Dec 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced-searchcategoryguidehow-tolorebooklotrosearchturbineSun, 09 Dec 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO lorebook heads north, finds civilization]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/05/lotro-lorebook-heads-north-finds-civilization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/05/lotro-lorebook-heads-north-finds-civilization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/05/lotro-lorebook-heads-north-finds-civilization/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You... shall... not... pass!Turbine have returned to their Lord of the Rings Online lorebook groove with a spotlight on Ost Forod, one of the main outposts in the Evendim region. Last week it was wolf-men, this week it's brigands and tomb raiders. No, not Lara Croft.

Northeast of Lake Evendim (which in itself is north and east of the Shire), Ost Forod is a trading village not so much built on the bones of an ruined fortress as part of one. But by the time you visit, there's more than a little bit of trouble in paradise.

Turbine have really flexed their creative muscles for the whole Evendim area. Even if you're not a fan of LotRO, you have to admire Turbine's phenomenal handling of the enviroment; they're living and breathing lore so well it's not always obvious what's Tolkien and what's Turbine.

MassivelyLotRO lorebook heads north, finds civilization originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Dec 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dunedainevendimlara-croftlorelorebooklotroost-forodthe-shiretolkienturbineWed, 05 Dec 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wannabe werewolves featured in Lorebook]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/wannabe-werewolves-featured-in-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/wannabe-werewolves-featured-in-lorebook/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/wannabe-werewolves-featured-in-lorebook/#commentsFiled under: , ,

North of the land once known as Arnor (the setting for The Lord of the Rings Online), there is an icy wasteland called Forochel. That grave place is inhabited by savage men who have mostly tended to their own wars and concerns, and who do not participate in the affairs of Middle-earth, except to occasionally sweep south and plunder.

Some of those cruel men inhabit Dol Haedir -- a landmark Turbine created in northern Evendim, and the subject of the newest official Lorebook entry. According to the entry, the men of Dol Haedir are savage cannibals called the Gauredain.

One of the cool things about Turbine's aspirations of authenticity is its careful use of Tolkien's languages even for newly invented peoples and places. The Sindarin "Gauredain" translates roughly to "Werewolf Men." These guys certainly look the part ... and act it too, what with the eating human flesh and all.

MassivelyWannabe werewolves featured in Lorebook originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dol-haedirevendimgauredainlord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelorebooklotrotolkienturbinewerewolvesThu, 29 Nov 2007 20:00:00 EST