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[MapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MapleStory 7th Anniversary
Do you feel lucky, MapleStory players? You should, because Nexon is celebrating the game's lucky seventh anniversary, and the studio is passing the good fortune on to the players with a series of in-game events and double experience weekends.

For the duration of the month, players will be treated not only to double experience and drops every weekend, but they'll also be able to take part in events such as the Maple Rising Star Contest, which requires players to complete tasks to show support for their favorite NPC contestant. And of course, no anniversary would be complete without a visit from the deliciously vicious Cake Boss monster, which combines a challenging battle and a tasty treat into one mutant monstrosity. To put the icing on the proverbial cake, Nexon has released a short anniversary trailer that recaps the major MapleStory events of the past year, so put on your party hats and join the festivities after the cut.

[Source: Nexon America press release]

Continue reading MapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters

MassivelyMapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7th-anniversaryanniversarydouble-experience-weekenddouble-xpdouble-xp-weekenddouble-xp-weekendseventsf2pfantasyfree-to-playin-game-eventin-game-eventsmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreaseventh-anniversarytrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 11 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory proclaims Alliance Eternal this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/maplestory-proclaims-alliance-eternal-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/maplestory-proclaims-alliance-eternal-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/maplestory-proclaims-alliance-eternal-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MapleStory
With this week's Alliance Eternal patch in MapleStory, Nexon has returned the balance of the classes to where it should be. The final update in the Alliance trilogy focuses on Cygnus Knights and Explorer classes, retuning them and bringing their power levels back up to par with the classes that received developer love with the previous updates.

Alliance Eternal has a few other fun surprises for players. Level 120 characters can hop through a Dimensional Schism and take on the sinister-sounding Arkarium, while Cygnus Knights level 110 or above have new quest chains to investigate.

Nexon's also looking forward to the coming months. MapleStory will hit its seven-year anniversary in May, and players should expect a big bash when that happens. The devs also teased a "big summer content release" on the horizon with two new characters including the Phantom hero.

MassivelyMapleStory proclaims Alliance Eternal this week originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliance-eternalalliance-eternal-patchalliance-eternal-updatebalanceCygnus-Knightexplorerf2pfantasyfree-to-playmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreapatchrebalancingupdateMon, 23 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory gets political, players respond with bewilderment]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/maplestory-gets-political-players-respond-with-bewilderment/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/maplestory-gets-political-players-respond-with-bewilderment/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/maplestory-gets-political-players-respond-with-bewilderment/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Pictured: MapleStory. Not pictured: political acumen.
It's an election year in the United States, and that means that it's time to start polling for opinions across the country. If the country goes the path of MapleStory, the incumbent President has nothing to worry about. A survey of 1,655 random MapleStory players was conducted this past weekend, with 47.79% claiming that Barack Obama had made the most positive impact out of the current candidates. The runner-up? Abject confusion. More than 20% of respondents did not recognize any of the names involved.

The respondents were also polled on the most important issue facing the presidential candidates, with unemployment taking the top spot (40%) and the gap between rich and poor taking second place (28%). It's not necessarily indicative of much, but even though it's an informal poll conducted by Nexon America of a fairly random playerbase, there's a staggering degree of confusion at work. Or MapleStory players really like President Obama, one or the other.

MassivelyMapleStory gets political, players respond with bewilderment originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturef2pfantasyfree-to-playmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreapolitical-pollpoliticssurveysurveyswhat-is-this-i-cant-evenTue, 27 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory allies against aliens]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/maplestory-allies-against-aliens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/maplestory-allies-against-aliens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/maplestory-allies-against-aliens/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MapleStory
It's a bad day to be an alien in MapleStory -- and a good day to be a player. Nexon has released its latest major update for the game, Alliance Unbound, and it's placing a bounty on every E.T. and Klingon you can find. Nasty space critters are causing town-demolishing earthquakes in the area, and what's worse is that their technology is somewhat more advanced than swords or clubs.

While a majority of the content for Alliance Unbound is for high-level characters, there's still plenty for lowbies to do as well. The main update quest line opens up at level 15 and offers both a high- and low-level version.

The update has plenty of meat to it in other ways. A gigantic 31-part quest chain has been added to Ellin Forest for level 95s in which players will jump back in time and explore the making of one of the key regions in the game. There's also a nifty and powerful alien socket system that grants players the ability to upgrade weapons. Finally, Nexon's got plenty of new Event Cards and a collection system to keep players busy.

MassivelyMapleStory allies against aliens originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alienaliensalliance-unboundEllin-Forestetevent-cardsf2pfantasyfree-to-playklingonmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreapatchupdateweapon-modificationFri, 16 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Two years and counting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/free-for-all-two-years-and-counting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/free-for-all-two-years-and-counting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/free-for-all-two-years-and-counting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Free for All two year anniversary banner
On March 9th, 2012, this column will turn two years old. I thought it would be a fun idea to look back on those two years and recount what I might have learned. I've learned a lot, actually. When I was first hired to write a column about free-to-play games, I thought I would be covering relatively simple topics, stuff like "how much would you pay for a horse?" or "how many free-to-play games do you have on your hard drive?" Pretty soon I realized that free-to-play, to many people, represents a sort of gaming movement and genre rather than a payment model.

The discussions have been open, frank, and sometimes infuriating. It's easy for me to write so simply that it can seem as though I am attempting to make a larger point, and it's much easier to make much more of the term "free-to-play" than is necessary. I have seen the lines being drawn by many players who feel that free-to-play is a sort of scary neighbor who threatens the peaceful existence of their neighborhood, while many others couldn't care less.

Like I said, I have learned a lot.

Continue reading Free for All: Two years and counting

MassivelyFree for All: Two years and counting originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animeanniversarybeau-hindbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-plfree-to-playfreemiumftpindependentindiemaplestoryopinionvelvet-ropeWed, 07 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Dungeon Fighter Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/rise-and-shiny-recap-dungeon-fighter-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/rise-and-shiny-recap-dungeon-fighter-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/rise-and-shiny-recap-dungeon-fighter-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Dungeon Fighter Online screenshot
I'm glad that over the last week I found the time to finally get me some Dungeon Fighter Online by Nexon. I knew that it has quite the following, and I knew that it's supposed to be a blast, sort of like an 8bit Vindictus, but I was still surprised at a few things while I played. The game isn't what I thought it would be in several ways. NPCs have voices and hand out actual quests, the world is more open than I thought it would be, and the graphics feel snappy and fluid despite their primitive nature.

Don't get me wrong -- there is plenty that needs to be tweaked or fixed before the game smells of anything near perfection. Much of it is beyond the ability of the developers, but many of the problems with the game could be fixed relatively easy.

Click past the cut and I'll tell you what I thought during my time fighting in dungeons... online!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Dungeon Fighter Online

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Dungeon Fighter Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8bitbeau-hindmandungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpmabinogiMapleStorymin-kimNexonnexon-americarise-and-shinySide-scrollervindictusSun, 25 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Korean gaming giants adjusting data collection policies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/korean-gaming-giants-adjusting-data-collection-policies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/korean-gaming-giants-adjusting-data-collection-policies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/korean-gaming-giants-adjusting-data-collection-policies/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

NCsoft logo
Changes are afoot in the Korean gaming industry in the wake of last month's massive Nexon hack that cost over 13 million MapleStory users their personal information. NCsoft has decided to stop collecting its players' Resident Registration Number (which is a Korean analog to the American Social Security number) due to concerns over privacy issues.

Korean gamers will still need to fork over the number to play NCsoft games, though, according to a report at ThisIsGame.com. Players need only an email and password to register for the PlayNC portal, but the RRN may still be required to verify that new registrants aren't bots, and NCsoft has handed off the collection responsibilities to a third-party agency. "We have acknowledged the importance of personal information for a long time. So we have collected minimum personal information and have asked another agency to do the sensitive information work including the RRN on behalf of us," said an NCsoft official.

ThisIsGame also reports that NHN Hangame has decided to stop collecting personal information, while Nexon and Neowiz are formulating new collection policies.

MassivelyKorean gaming giants adjusting data collection policies originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>data-collectionhackshangamemaplestorymaplestory-hackmmo-industryncsoftneowiznexonnexon-hacknhn-hangamepersonal-informationresident-registration-numberrrnsecurityMon, 19 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[[Updated] On the fourth day of giveaways, Nexon gave to me...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/on-the-fourth-day-of-giveaways-nexon-gave-to-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/on-the-fourth-day-of-giveaways-nexon-gave-to-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/on-the-fourth-day-of-giveaways-nexon-gave-to-me/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Royal Crimson Stallion Mount
[UPDATE: All winners have been selected and contacted. Thanks to everyone who entered!]

On the fourth day of giveaways, Nexon gave to me... four pet items!
On the third day of giveaways, Wargaming.net gave to me... three premium years!
On the second day of giveaways, BioWare gave to me... two warring factions!
On the first day of giveaways, Turbine gave to me... a lifetime VIP!

MapleStory fans, your day is here! Nexon is joining the 12 Days of Giveaways event again this year with some fun MapleStory pet packs. Each package contains four items: a permanent pet (either a White Bunny, a Mir, or a Jr. Reaper), a permanent pet equip, pet food, and a pet scroll. We've got 20 of these pet four-packs to hand out to our readers, but that's not all!

If Dragon Nest is more your speed, Nexon has you covered as well! We have four Dragon Nest prize packages, each containing 10 Dragon Eggs. Each egg opens to reveal a random prize -- anything from yellow or black Cupid wings to a Royal Crimson Stallion, and many other possibilities.

If you want to pick up one of these prizes, just enter by leaving a comment to tell us which of these two games is your favorite and why. The entry deadline is tomorrow, December 17th, at noon EST. Check out our contest rules to make sure you're eligible, and best of luck!

CONTEST FAQ OFFICIAL RULES

Massively[Updated] On the fourth day of giveaways, Nexon gave to me... originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-giveaways-2011contestcontestsdragon-nestf2pfree-to-playgiveawaygiveawaysmaplestorynexonFri, 16 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory adds the Cannoneer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/maplestory-adds-the-cannoneer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/maplestory-adds-the-cannoneer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/maplestory-adds-the-cannoneer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Son of a gun.
Are you ready to solve all of your problems with the application of cannons? Up until now, MapleStory has allowed players to solve maybe a fifth of all your problems via the application of cannons. But the newest character type in the game, the Cannoneer, solves the vast majority of his problems via... well, you can guess. He also makes use of bombs and perhaps the odd aerial bombardment as well, just in case you wanted to diversify your problem-solving skills a bit.

To show off this first update in the Legends patch, we have posted not one, not two, but three videos just past the break. There is, of course, a gameplay trailer for the Cannoneer and a trailer for the patch as a whole. But there's also the "audition" trailer for the Cannoneer as the staff at Nexon tries to decide on the next class to add to the game. Check out the videos just past the break, and get ready to open fire.

[Source: Nexon press release]

Continue reading MapleStory adds the Cannoneer

MassivelyMapleStory adds the Cannoneer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cannoneerf2pfree-to-playmaplestorymaplestory-legendsnewsnexonnexon-usapatchpatchestrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 08 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 176: Black and Blue Friday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/massively-speaking-episode-176-black-and-blue-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/massively-speaking-episode-176-black-and-blue-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/massively-speaking-episode-176-black-and-blue-friday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Black Friday shoppers are insane
Massively Speaking Episode 176 is on its third new microphone in as many weeks, but we're rolling with the punches and rounding up the biggest MMO news stories from this past week even so. Whether it be a lengthy chat with Massively's own Larry about his thoughts on the Star Wars: The Old Republic beta, our tribute to World of Warcraft on its 7th anniversary, or keen insights into the shopping mentality of Black Friday, we aim to cover all the bases!

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
[RSS] Add Massively Speaking to your RSS aggregator.
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 176: Black and Blue Friday

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 176: Black and Blue Friday originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-fridaychampions-onlinecinderella-lawlarrymaplestorymassively-speakingmythospathfinderpathfinder-onlinepodcastpodcastsriftrunes-of-magicstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorworld-of-warcraftTue, 29 Nov 2011 13:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 176Massively.com Staff01:04:56podcasts<![CDATA[MapleStory breached, 13 million accounts exposed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/maplestory-breached-13-million-accounts-exposed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/maplestory-breached-13-million-accounts-exposed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/maplestory-breached-13-million-accounts-exposed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MapleStory
The famously hacked Sony has a sympathetic shoulder this week, as Nexon recently discovered a massive breach that's exposed over 13 million MapleStory player accounts to cyber ne'er-do-wells. Discovered this past Thursday, the breach was solely limited to South Korea, as Nexon hosts separate countries on their own servers.

This means that any South Korean MapleStory player's information is at risk, including user IDs, names, passwords, and residential registration numbers. This information could potentially be stolen and used for a variety of crimes.

While there's been no word whether actual personal information has been stolen, Nexon nevertheless urged these 13+ million subscribers to change their passwords. The company has contacted the police to ask for a formal investigation.

This comes at an unfortunate time for the company, as Nexon is poised to present its IPO on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in December.

MassivelyMapleStory breached, 13 million accounts exposed originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-securitybreachhackhackedhackersipokoreanmaplestorymaplestory-breachnexonsecurity-breachsoesonysouth-koreatokyo-stock-exchangeSat, 26 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory Legends trailer introduces three new characters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/maplestory-legends-trailer-introduces-three-new-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/maplestory-legends-trailer-introduces-three-new-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/maplestory-legends-trailer-introduces-three-new-characters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

MapleStory Legends
The next content update coming to Nexon's popular sidescroller MapleStory, known as MapleStory Legends, brings three new playable characters to the mix. The Cannoneer's name should be self explanatory: He carries a massive cannon with which to blast enemies to kingdom come. Mercedes rocks a pair of crossbows and specializes in ranged combat, while the Demon Slayer boasts a pair of devilish wings that can be used both for flight and for combat. To take a look at these new classes in MapleStory Legends' debut trailer, just click on past the cut.

Continue reading MapleStory Legends trailer introduces three new characters

MassivelyMapleStory Legends trailer introduces three new characters originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cannoneerdemon-slayerf2pfree-to-playmaplestorymaplestory-legendsmercedesnexontrailertrailersvideovideosTue, 15 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon's Japanese IPO aims at raising $1.3 billion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/nexons-japanese-ipo-aims-at-raising-1-3-billion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/nexons-japanese-ipo-aims-at-raising-1-3-billion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/nexons-japanese-ipo-aims-at-raising-1-3-billion/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nexon
When Nexon is finally added to the Tokyo Stock Exchange in December, the company has to be planning a massive "We're in the money!" song-and-dance to celebrate. TechCrunch reports that this will be the biggest IPO in Japan in 2011, with a corporate goal of raising $1.3 billion (100 billion yen) from the listing.

The Korean company recently moved its headquarters from Seoul to Tokyo, and is well-known for its popular MMOs such as MapleStory, Mabinogi, and Vindictus. Nexon has over 3,000 people in its employ across the world, and previously said that it is open to purchasing more companies in Japan after the IPO.

The company commented on its post-IPO strategy in a brief statement: "As we pursue our strategic objectives, we regularly review our options for accelerating our growth. We have made no decisions or announcements about any specific financing or other plans and cannot comment on rumors."

The IPO will be handled by Nomura Securities, Morgan Stanley, and Goldman Sachs. Nexon is hoping that the move will raise its market cap to $9 billion, which will make it the biggest online gaming company listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. The company is currently worth $7.7 billion.

MassivelyNexon's Japanese IPO aims at raising $1.3 billion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Goldman-Sachsinitial-public-offeringipomabinogimaplestoryMorgan-StanleynexonNomura-Securitiesstockstock-exchangestockstokyo-stock-exchangevindictusTue, 08 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: October 17-23, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/mv-guide-october-17-23-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/mv-guide-october-17-23-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/mv-guide-october-17-23-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Alganon screenshot
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively's Livestream channel.

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

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

Continue reading MV Guide: October 17-23, 2011

MassivelyMV Guide: October 17-23, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonallods-onlinechampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosgpotatoleague-of-legendslivestreamlollord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromagicduelmaplestorymv-guidemv-tvnexonquest-onlineriotriot-gamesrise-of-isengardturbineMon, 17 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take to the skies with MapleStory Ascension]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/take-to-the-skies-with-maplestory-ascension/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/take-to-the-skies-with-maplestory-ascension/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/take-to-the-skies-with-maplestory-ascension/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- MapleStory
Rise up, MapleStory players! The new Ascension update is coming on September 28th, and it's bringing players a wealth of new features to enjoy. Warriors, Magicians, and Bowmen are all receiving class revamps that update the classes with "new strength and new looks."

Players can also band together to take on the challenges of Spiegelmann's Monster Park, which grants an extra 50% experience for parties as well as higher drop rates. For the lovebirds in the crowd, the team is implementing new wedding quests. Meanwhile, team players are being given three new party quests as well as six updated ones, and the rewards from party quests are "more lucrative than ever." To top it all off, a new event calendar has been added to the game, so players will always be up to date on current events.

To get in on all the Ascension action, head on over to the official site and register for an account.

MassivelyTake to the skies with MapleStory Ascension originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascensionclass-updateclassesf2pfree-to-playmaplestorymonster-parknexonnexon-americaparty-questsspiegelmanns-monster-parkwedding-questsweddingsThu, 22 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory Adventures scores 3 million players -- before it even launches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/maplestory-adventures-scores-3-million-players-before-it-even/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/maplestory-adventures-scores-3-million-players-before-it-even/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/maplestory-adventures-scores-3-million-players-before-it-even/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MapleStory Adventures
The Facebook spin-off of MapleStory has hit a big milestone today -- a very big one indeed. Nexon announced that MapleStory Adventures crossed the three million registered player threshold. This feat is more incredible when you consider that the game is still in open beta.

MapleStory Adventures is Nexon's first Facebook game, and it is soon to be joined by the company's second: Wonder Cruise. Nexon's been making strategic moves into the social gaming market this year, including a recent partnership with developer 6waves Lolapps. The company saw an impressive 59% increase in revenue last quarter.

MapleStory was an obvious choice for a Facebook conversion, considering that the title was already in 2-D and has a mass-market appeal. While MapleStory Adventures is similar in many ways to its predecessor, some elements have been simplified for the platform, such as the number of classes and skill trees.

MassivelyMapleStory Adventures scores 3 million players -- before it even launches originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-million6waves-Lolappsclassesfacebookmaplestorymaplestory-adventuresnexonnexon-americaskill-treessocial-gamingwonder-cruiseMon, 19 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[75% of MapleStory's marriages suffer the heartbreak of divorce]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/75-of-maplestorys-marriages-suffer-the-heartbreak-of-divorce/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/75-of-maplestorys-marriages-suffer-the-heartbreak-of-divorce/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/75-of-maplestorys-marriages-suffer-the-heartbreak-of-divorce/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MapleStory wedding
Monogamy isn't in the cards for most MapleStory players, and neither are faithfulness, silver anniversaries or alimony-free lifestyles. You see, MapleStory boasts an incredibly high rate of divorces with its marriage system, as a whopping 75% of players who get married in-game end up getting those unions annulled.

MapleStory's marriage system is fairly popular, with 26,982 such events occurring last year in North America alone. Each marriage costs $25 for the couple, but it seems that the initial investment wasn't enough to keep a majority of the players together for long. Within a year, over 20,000 of those marriages broke up.

Due to the high divorce rate -- much higher than the real-world version by far -- Nexon investigated individual stories of in-game divorce trying to figure out why these virtual marriages aren't sticking. One player named Seth realized that his "Maple spouse" was merely using their relationship to bum free items off of him, which led to their break-up.

Marriage in MapleStory is a detailed process involving an official engagement, two rings, real-world cash, and a spiffy in-game item that gives the happy pair a big boost to stats. However, if a marriage is annulled, each partner has a 10-day cooling off period before he or she can remarry.

[Source: Nexon press release]

Massively75% of MapleStory's marriages suffer the heartbreak of divorce originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>annulledannulmentdivorceengagementf2pfree-to-playin-game-marriagemaple-spousemaplestorymarriagemarriagesnexonnexon-nanexon-north-americaweddingwedding-bellsThu, 15 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: In-game marriage is for losers edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-mmo-report-in-game-marriage-is-for-losers-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-mmo-report-in-game-marriage-is-for-losers-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-mmo-report-in-game-marriage-is-for-losers-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The MMO Report - Casey Schreiner
This week's MMO Report finds Casey Schreiner in a celebratory mood, and why not? After all, G4TV's massively multiplayer-focused video blog has been entertaining work-bound slackers for four years now, and it's his birthday tomorrow.

The show hits all the MMO news highlights for the past week including DC Universe Online's new content pack, Minecraft's new adventuring trailer, The Secret World's sub-plus-cash-shop business model reveal, and Star Trek Online's foregone conclusion of a free-to-play announcement. Casey has a bit of fun with fans of the F2P model, saying that STO is "answering the call of thousands of underpaid comics and collectible store employees who can't afford 15 bucks a month."

If that's not enough for you, consider that Casey also spends a bit of time talking about the merits of in-game marriage, and more specifically, why so many of MapleStory's pairings end in annulment. Seriously. Check it out after the break.

Continue reading The MMO Report: In-game marriage is for losers edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: In-game marriage is for losers edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey-schreinerdc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfree-to-playhumorin-game-marriagemaplestoryMiscellaneousmmo-reportstar-trek-onlinestothe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtswvideoThu, 08 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Maplestory Age of Triumph trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/massively-exclusive-maplestory-age-of-triumph-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/massively-exclusive-maplestory-age-of-triumph-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/massively-exclusive-maplestory-age-of-triumph-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Last week, Nexon announced the conclusion of the Chaos series in their free-to-play fantasy side-scroller MapleStory -- Age of Triumph. Today, the studio offers Massively an exclusive video trailer for a peek at the action that is scheduled to release on August 17th.

The video highlights the three main features coming up in this patch: The new PvP game Capture the Flag; footage of the new Silent Crusade story line, a full-length quest for players level 37-110; and even the new Crusader Codex, a book highlighting the various monsters that roam Maple World which players can add to after defeating new monsters.

Click past the cut for a look at these upcoming features in Age of Triumph.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Maplestory Age of Triumph trailer

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Maplestory Age of Triumph trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Age-of-Triumphcapture-the-flagchaoscrusader-codexf2pfree-to-playMapleStorymassively-exclusivenew-contentnexonpatchpatchespvpSilent-CrusadetrailerupdatevideoWed, 10 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon concludes MapleStory's Chaos series with loads of new content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/nexon-concludes-maplestorys-chaos-series-with-loads-of-new-cont/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/nexon-concludes-maplestorys-chaos-series-with-loads-of-new-cont/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/nexon-concludes-maplestorys-chaos-series-with-loads-of-new-cont/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MapleStory's Chaos series of updates is ending with a bang with the Age of Triumph, which according to Nexon, is "a huge update that brings unique content exclusively to those players who traverse Maple World on Global MapleStory servers."

So what does the final update have in store for Maple World? Well, for starters it brings an all-new storyline titled The Silent Crusade. The storyline quests are available for players in the incredibly broad level range of 37-110, and they introduce players to a force that specializes in the elimination of Master Monsters (a new faction of enemies). Alongside the new storyline, the update will also introduce PvPers to the new Capture the Flag mode. And lastly, players will find in their inventory a Crusader Codex, which is essentially an encyclopedia of the monsters of Maple World. Each page can be filled with Monster Cards, which drop from various enemies. Once a page is completed, the page will display the monster's information such as levels, locations, and item drops, and players will receive unique prizes such as medals. For some new screenshots of the upcoming update, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: MapleStory

MassivelyNexon concludes MapleStory's Chaos series with loads of new content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capture-the-flagchaoschaos-updatechaos-update-serieschaos-updatescrusader-codexctff2pfree-to-playmaple-storymaplestorymsnexonnexon-americathe-silent-crusadeFri, 05 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon releases new MapleStory map and two new classes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/nexon-releases-new-maplestory-map-and-two-new-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/nexon-releases-new-maplestory-map-and-two-new-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/nexon-releases-new-maplestory-map-and-two-new-classes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

MapleStory - Wild HunterMapleStory's Big Bang patch series is reloading for a second round of content updates, and this time the new stuff includes a new map, two new classes, and a new story.

Nexon's free-to-play fantasy side-scroller now features the Wild Hunter and Battle Mage classes, which players can commandeer in an effort to stem the tide of the relentless Black Wing menace that threatens to destroy the Resistance. Surprisingly, the Battle Mage isn't a bring-up-the-rear kind of DPSer like most mages you may have met. Nexon's press release says he'll be "the first into danger, placing himself between his teammates and the forces of darkness."

The Wild Hunter, on the other hand, is very much a keep-'em-at-range kind of gal who "will shoot down her targets with deadly accuracy [while riding] on the back of a jaguar." MapleStory will also be featuring another Hot Time event on August 6th, so mark your calendars and be sure to log in, grab an SP reset scroll and get some double XP. Finally, don't forget to click past the cut for a couple of videos focused on the new classes.

Continue reading Nexon releases new MapleStory map and two new classes

MassivelyNexon releases new MapleStory map and two new classes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-mageclassesdouble-xpdpsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicshot-timehottimehunterjaguarmagemaple-storymaplestorynew-contentnexonpatchespress-releaseranged-damagetrailersvideowild-hunterThu, 04 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon invests in social gaming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/nexon-invests-in-social-gaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/nexon-invests-in-social-gaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/nexon-invests-in-social-gaming/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nexon, the creator of the action-based MMOs Dragon Nest and Vindictus, recently invested a significant amount of money in the Hong Kong-based social-gaming developer 6waves Lolapps. Gamasutra quotes Nexon CEO Seung-woo Choi as saying, "We made this investment because we believe that 6waves Lolapps places the same value that we do in providing exciting games to our players and driving growth for the company by doing so."

There is no direct link between this partnership and Nexon's announcing that its flagship MMO MapleStory will be spun off into a Facebook game called Maplestory Adventures, but 6Waves CEO Rex Ng believes the relationship between the two gaming companies can only benefit the player with great content and adventures in the long run.

This news comes on the coattails of another MMO developer, NCSoft, buying a smartphone application developer. The MMO space is expanding well beyond the at-home PC. The MMO gaming industry is integrating itself into more and more aspects of our daily lives, stretching the definition of "living world."

MassivelyNexon invests in social gaming originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6waves-LolappsDragon-Nestf2pfree-to-playftpMapleStoryncsoftNexonRex-NgSeung-woo-Choisocial-gamingVindictusThu, 04 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory chills out with Ice Knight Battle mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/maplestory-chills-out-with-ice-knight-battle-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/maplestory-chills-out-with-ice-knight-battle-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/maplestory-chills-out-with-ice-knight-battle-mode/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Nexon has cried havoc, and let slip the dogs of wa-- err, the Ice Knight, rather. Continuing with MapleStory's Chaos series of summer content updates, Nexon has unleashed a brand-new PvP gametype, called the Ice Knight Battle.

The Ice Knight Battle takes cues from traditional king-of-the-hill gametypes, but with one exciting twist: One of the ten players, chosen at random, becomes the Ice Knight at the beginning of the game. This transformation grants the Ice Knight a huge power boost as well as a number of unique abilities that can be used as the Ice Knight fills his Ice Gauge. From there, the remaining players have seven minutes to bring down the Ice Knight, which is sure to be no mean feat. For some shots of the Ice Knight Battle in action, hit the gallery below.

Gallery: MapleStory

MassivelyMapleStory chills out with Ice Knight Battle mode originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryice-knightice-knight-battlemaplestorymsnexonplayer-versus-playerpvpscreenshotscreenshotsThu, 28 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory's Chaos updates kicking off with the Age of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/maplestorys-chaos-updates-kicking-off-with-the-age-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/maplestorys-chaos-updates-kicking-off-with-the-age-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/maplestorys-chaos-updates-kicking-off-with-the-age-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's been a while since we've heard from MapleStory, but today the free-to-play side-scroller from Nexon has taken the wraps off its Chaos summer update plans. The next two months will bring major content updates to Maple World courtesy of the Age of Heroes patch that drops on June 29th. New quests, zones, and a new high-level boss are all on tap, as is a battle through the Henesys Ruins and the Knight Stronghold that Nexon's press release describes as "the most formidable challenge in the entire game."

The Age of Heroes update will also bring about a hero class re-balance, and restrictions for creating Dual Blade, Aran, and Evan classes will be lifted. Explorers, Cygnus, and Resistance classes are also being tweaked, and players will find them "more powerful than ever" due to main skill enhancements.

Later in the summer, the Age of Artisans update will unveil a new level-based crafting system, and the Age of Battle will bring a PvP mode to MapleStory. Head to the official site for all the details.

MassivelyMapleStory's Chaos updates kicking off with the Age of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-artisansage-of-battleage-of-heroeschaoschaos-updatechaos-updatesclassescraftingf2pfantasyfree-to-playmaple-storymaplestorymaplestory-chaosnexonpatchespress-releasepvpquestingside-scrollerupdatesThu, 23 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

I like lists. Lists help keep my candy-coated brain functioning. I see so many games, devices, and developers that I need to write things down periodically or become lost. Not so long ago I made a list of 25 games for your shiny new laptop, but I wanted to update it with other devices as well. I'd like to clarify the devices I have, though, especially since it was brought to my attention that a lot of players use laptops as their primary gaming machines. When I refer to a laptop, it is far from a gaming machine and could not run games like EverQuest II or Age of Conan.

So here are some stats: I have an HTC Inspire, an iPhone 3GS, an iPad, a Phenom Triple-core PC desktop with an Nvidia 9800 card, six gigs of ram and onboard sound. My laptop is an HP G62 with an AMD Athlon II P340 dual core processor, three gigs of ram and an AMD graphics chip built in. I also have a more powerful gaming PC, but that is often referred to as "the wife's machine" around here, and it is so packed with her items that I rarely touch it. So most of these games can be run on their native devices, and if they are meant for PC, probably on netbooks as well. When I'm playing on netbooks, resolution is often the major issue. Some games just will not fit on the tiny screens without some slight modding.

Anyway, click past the cut to see the list. The first 11 are my favorites, the ones that I play often, if not every day. The rest are in no particular order, so keep that in mind as well. Remember that this year is going to be an incredible one for mobile, thanks to the new games I found at E3. So this list will change!

Continue reading MMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle

MassivelyMMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landadventurequest-worldsAnarchy-Onlineasherons-callatmosphirbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanccpcity-of-eternalsClone-Wars-Adventurescrowns-of-powerdark-orbitdark-orbit-gamesdie2niteDofusdomain-of-heroesdragon-fabledungeon-blitzeden-eternaleve-onlineeverquestf2pfeaturedfleckfree-realmsfree-to-playftpfusion-fallgilfors-talesglitchgunshineillyriadkingsisle-entertainmentlinkrealmsmabinogiMapleStorymilmoministry-of-warmiramagiaMMObilitymobilemonkey-questmonster-forestnadirimNexonorder-and-chaos-onlinepets-vs-monsterspirate-galaxypocket-legendspockie-ninjapoptropicapuzzle-piratesrunescapeshin-megami-tensei-imagine-onlineSOEspiral-knightsThreeRingstravianswakfuwizard-101World-of-WarcraftzentiaTue, 21 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory invites you to a Jubilation!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/maplestory-invites-you-to-a-jubilation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/maplestory-invites-you-to-a-jubilation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/maplestory-invites-you-to-a-jubilation/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's a stupendous month for MapleStory as the obscenely popular MMO not only dinged its sixth year in operation but also racked up over eight million accounts and 24 million characters created. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Nexon is throwing a joyful celebration for the game code-named Jubilation.

As the name suggests, Jubilation is all about partying, and party the players shall. For starters, there's a dual-raid for two teams of three competing to down a balloon first. Those looking for more relaxing activities may want to help grow a small maple sapling into a mighty tree by collecting sunshine, assembling an anniversary jigsaw puzzle by collecting all the trees, or simply logging in every day to earn enough stamps for a loyalty medal with spiffy stats attached.

MapleStory's sixth anniversary events are going on now through June 14th, so there's plenty of time to check it all out! You can read the full details of the game's Jubilation at the official site.

MassivelyMapleStory invites you to a Jubilation! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 May 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6th-anniversaryanniversaryballoon-raidbirthdaycelebrationdual-raideventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventjigsaw-puzzlejubilationjubileeloyalty-medalmaple-saplingmaple-treemaplestorynexonpartysixth-anniversarywiggity-wiggity-whackFri, 06 May 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon America posts 59% revenue growth in first quarter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/nexon-america-posts-59-revenue-growth-in-first-quarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/nexon-america-posts-59-revenue-growth-in-first-quarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/nexon-america-posts-59-revenue-growth-in-first-quarter/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nexon America, publisher of various microtransaction-based games such as MapleStory and Dungeon Fighter Online, has announced that its revenue gain for the first quarter is up by 59%. The press release notes that, typically, "first quarter sales tend to decline seasonally compared to the rest of the year, making the enormous jump in revenues particularly notable."

What's Nexon's secret to success? According to Daniel Kim, CEO of Nexon America, the key lies in its "ability to deliver engaging content that our players find valuable, whether they are playing for free or purchasing items in our game." As if business wasn't already booming for Nexon, it is presently planning to release its newest game, Dragon Nest, and will be taking its first foray into social gaming with MapleStory Adventures for Facebook sometime this summer.

MassivelyNexon America posts 59% revenue growth in first quarter originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 May 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daniel-kimdragon-nestDragonNestf2pfree-to-playmaplestorymicrotransactionsnexonnexon-americaWed, 04 May 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: New episode of MapleStory's New Leaf Saga]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/exclusive-new-episode-of-maplestorys-new-leaf-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/exclusive-new-episode-of-maplestorys-new-leaf-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/exclusive-new-episode-of-maplestorys-new-leaf-saga/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

So you want to get started in Nexon's MapleStory? It can be a little bit baffling at times, as you could expect from starting a new game. But the New Leaf Saga is designed to help players get accustomed to the game through a gentle series of animated game videos showing off how the game works. Our last exclusive installment dealt with the plethora of classes available in the game, but the newest installment deals with a problem that can apply to almost any game.

Our intrepid protagonist, still struggling to find her place within the game, is ready to head off and adventure with her pet dragon and her friend. Unfortunately, said friend needs to briefly step away from the computer to take care of some other matters, and the new girl starts getting a little bored. If you're a fan of MapleStory, new to the game, or just new to MMOs in general, skip on past the break to give the latest episode of the New Leaf Saga a quick watch.

Continue reading Exclusive: New episode of MapleStory's New Leaf Saga

MassivelyExclusive: New episode of MapleStory's New Leaf Saga originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 May 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cultureexclusiveinstructional-videomachinimamaplestorynew-leaf-saganexonnexon-usaspecial-videostarting-outvideovideosMon, 02 May 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory goes Greek: New island coming to the game April 6th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/maplestory-goes-greek-new-island-coming-to-the-game-april-6th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/maplestory-goes-greek-new-island-coming-to-the-game-april-6th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/maplestory-goes-greek-new-island-coming-to-the-game-april-6th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's no April Fools' joke: Nexon is adding a Greek-themed island to MapleStory on April 6th, ancient columns and all.

Chyrse is a floating island -- thanks to a mysterious power -- that's long since left the world and has been in isolation because of its distance. Now things have changed, and Chyrse is open for business and for war. Xerxes, a fearsome baddie, has declared war against the friendly giants of the isle, and it's up to you to stop him.

MapleStory players between the levels of 55 and 75 are encouraged to team up with friends to take on Xerxes and his forces. If players are victorious, Nexon promises to reward them with new, unique weapons and gear.

While you wait for the 6th, you can check out the first images of Chyrse in the gallery below!

Gallery: MapleStory

MassivelyMapleStory goes Greek: New island coming to the game April 6th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-foolsChyrsefloating-islandgiantsgreekmaplestorynew-zonenexonxerxeszoneFri, 01 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory exclusive cartoon: New Leaf Saga]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/maplestory-exclusive-cartoon-new-leaf-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/maplestory-exclusive-cartoon-new-leaf-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/maplestory-exclusive-cartoon-new-leaf-saga/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The goofy creators at Nexon have put together a video to help you noobs understand the mechanics of their side-scrolling MMO MapleStory. This third episode of the New Leaf Saga follows the adventures of a girl trying to find her place in the world. Where does she belong? What class should she play?

Of course, the first place to turn for the answer would be her friends. Each friend wants the girl to play the same class he or she did -- well, except the thief; he wants to steal her purse. But we come to find out there are far more classes in MapleStory than she has friends. Our new adventurer asks a very important question: "How many classes are there?" For the answer to that question, step past the break and watch the Massively Exclusive video: Classy.

(Let me know if you notice the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time sound effect, too.)

Continue reading MapleStory exclusive cartoon: New Leaf Saga

MassivelyMapleStory exclusive cartoon: New Leaf Saga originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartoonclass-choiceclassesexclusivehumorMapleStorynexontrailervideoThu, 24 Mar 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Dragonica]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/06/rise-and-shiny-recap-dragonica/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/06/rise-and-shiny-recap-dragonica/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/06/rise-and-shiny-recap-dragonica/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I was so glad to get back to normal this week, logging into a new (well, newish) game to enjoy and to write about. Dragonica, from what I remember, had been shut down some time ago. Somehow, magically, the announcement of its return slipped past my eyes, but here it is. It seems gPotato EU is going to be publishing it, considering that that's where I found it. I know, I know -- I work at Massively.com, the worlds' coolest and most reliable source for all things MMO, so how did this news get past me? I have no idea.

Still, I was glad to see it sitting on my hard drive, waiting to be played. I never gave it much of a chance before, mainly because side-scroller combat games were normally good for just a weekend jaunt or two. I hate repetition, generally, and sometimes the combat in these kinds of games can be boring at best. I was pretty surprised, though, once I gave the game a chance and learned some of my moves. It grew on me really, really fast. Also, it ran like a dream and was adorable to the point of nosebleed, which always helps.

Still, there's more. Click past the cut and find out!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Dragonica

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Dragonica originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionbeau-hindmancash-shopdragonicadragonica-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpgpotatogpotato-euhousingMapleStorymario-brosmario-brothersNexonnexon-americaSide-scrollerside-scrollingSun, 06 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2011: Nexon's future is so bright, it's gotta wear shades]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/gdc-2011-nexons-future-is-so-bright-its-gotta-wear-shades/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/gdc-2011-nexons-future-is-so-bright-its-gotta-wear-shades/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/gdc-2011-nexons-future-is-so-bright-its-gotta-wear-shades/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not only are Nexon's revenues on the way up with no sign of slowing, but the company's famed "Nexon iNitiative" is already producing hearty results. Unlike the Dharma Initiative, the Nexon iNitiative is a force for good, as the company is funding promising indie developers and their pet projects. Last year, Antic Entertainment and one2tribe both received a chunk of the $1 million funding to make games that would be published worldwide by Nexon, and a similar program is underway for 2011.

At GDC we sat down with Nexon America CEO Daniel Kim to talk about the future direction of the company. Nexon's in its 17th year and considers itself the most accomplished global provider of online games. Whether or not you agree with that statement, the fact that the company has over 30 titles under its belt in over 71 countries is impressive, and that's not even looking at the way Nexon casually drops how many hundreds of millions of players check out its titles daily.

Interesting Nexon tidbit: The name comes from the company's philosophy, to look for the "next online" trend. Now you have something to say during awkward silences at dinner parties.

Hit the jump to hear about some of the future projects and developments of this online pioneer, including MapleStory and Dragon Nest!

Continue reading GDC 2011: Nexon's future is so bright, it's gotta wear shades

MassivelyGDC 2011: Nexon's future is so bright, it's gotta wear shades originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antic-entertainmentcash-shopcash-storeconsoledaniel-kimdragon-nestdungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfacebookfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegdcgdc-2011item-shopitem-storekartriderkartrider-rushmaplestorymaplestory-adventuresmicrotransactionsnexonnexon-americanexon-initiativeone2tribetriangle-of-awesomevideoSat, 05 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: MapleStory video preview of upcoming class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/26/exclusive-maplestory-video-preview-of-upcoming-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/26/exclusive-maplestory-video-preview-of-upcoming-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/26/exclusive-maplestory-video-preview-of-upcoming-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

New classes and new abilities are always a good thing. MapleStory is already full of classes and abilities, but the upcoming Aftershock update will be adding in a new set of abilities for the Cygnus Knight class. Players who have attained level 120 in the class will be granted the option of making a new character of the Ultimate Explorer class, a character starting at level 50 and bypassing the early training levels for veteran players.

The fine folks at Nexon have put together a preview showing off some of the new abilities and attacks players will be able to enjoy in the new update, animated with MapleStory's usual aplomb. While it's a bit on the short side, it should still give a picture of what new destruction can be wrought in the game's side-scrolling regions. Click on past the break for the video, and keep an eye out for further news as the patch gets closer.

Continue reading Exclusive: MapleStory video preview of upcoming class

MassivelyExclusive: MapleStory video preview of upcoming class originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusiveexclusive-previewf2pfree-to-playmaplestorymaplestory-aftershocknexonnexon-americanexon-usapatchpatch-previewpending-updatespreviewpreview-videovideovideosSat, 26 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Further developments in MapleStory Europe's hacking madness]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/further-developments-in-maplestory-europes-hacking-madness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/further-developments-in-maplestory-europes-hacking-madness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/further-developments-in-maplestory-europes-hacking-madness/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Last week, we brought you the news that players abusing an exploit had brought MapleStory Europe's in-game economy to its knees. Using a packet-forging exploit, players with the Meso Guard skill were able to trick the server into giving them 2.17 billion mesos. Hundreds of mule accounts were created to house the forged currency, and trillions was poured into the economy via trades and market stalls. Nexon EU's initial response was to trade-ban all characters with over a certain amount of currency, a move that was criticised for catching a great deal of legitimate players and also somehow missing many of the hackers' mule accounts.

Despite concerns that the issue had gotten out of hand, Nexon EU stated that the company opted not to perform a server rollback. "The reason why we didn't perform a rollback on our servers," a Nexon EU representative told us, "was because we detected the exploit too late which may make the players lose even more of their gains if we were to turn everything back." The company's final plan for dealing with the massive influx of mesos has finally been announced, and it's bad news for practically everyone involved. After determining that the damage to the economy had become irreversible, Nexon decided to try to bring balance back to the economy by deleting a large percentage of every single player's mesos.

The forums have been in an uproar about the solution, with players complaining that it harms legitimate players more than the hackers. Legitimate players who have never cheated nor hacked will log in to find up to 90% of their hard-earned cash gone. Hackers will suffer the same percentage deduction, but with trillions stashed away in mule accounts they'll still be a lot better off than they were before the incident. Nexon EU clarified the statement in a later announcement, stating that "the deduction of Mesos will only be applied to users who have logged into the game between January 5th, 2011 and February 9th, 2011 5:00 A.M. (GMT+1)." Accounts that were previously trade-banned will also be receiving 1,000 maple points and an incubator as compensation.

MassivelyFurther developments in MapleStory Europe's hacking madness originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deleteexploithackmaple-storymaplestorymaplestory-europemesosnexonnexon-eunexon-europepacketThu, 10 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory Europe's economy collapses due to currency exploit [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/maplestory-europes-economy-collapses-due-to-currency-exploit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/maplestory-europes-economy-collapses-due-to-currency-exploit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/maplestory-europes-economy-collapses-due-to-currency-exploit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Despite its huge financial success, MapleStory Europe has had more than its fair share of problems. Last month, controversy hit MapleStory Europe when double-xp cards lasting for 90 days, instead of the intended 24 hours, were accidentally placed in the cash shop during the new year sale. The latest issue to hit MapleStory Europe has done serious and potentially irrecoverable damage to the game's economy. The exploit involved the Chief Bandit and Shadower classes, which both have a skill called "Meso Guard". This causes them to lose mesos, the game's currency, when hit instead of hitpoints.

Packet-forging exploits have been used for some time to alter the damage players deal to monsters or receive from them. Combined with Meso Guard, hackers were able to fool the game into hitting them for -2,147,483,648 damage (the largest negative value a signed 32-bit integer can hold). Since the damage was a negative value, the Meso Guard skill then granted the player over two billion mesos. Hacking players used their ill-gotten gains to buy up practically everything in players' market stalls, massively inflating the game's economy by pouring untold billions into the hands of random players.

Nexon attempted to patch the exploit last night and responded by permanently trade-banning countless accounts. Reports from players indicate that the exploit is still possible and that many of the offending accounts were not banned. To make matters worse, a large number of legitimate players who were traded ill-gotten currency were also allegedly trade-banned. The follow-up to another meso exploit found last year was similarly lackluster, with no server rollback performed in either instance.

[Update: Scott Yoo from Nexon Europe got in touch with us to provide an update on the story. He had the following to say: "[W]e did 'trade-ban' suspected accounts temporarily in order to conduct an internal investigation but we also had to make sure no-more illicitly gained Mesos (in-game currency) are going out to the in-game market and contained in the meanwhile. We do admit that a certain amount of legitimate players can be included in the trade banned list and that's what we are going to reveal through the investigation carefully. [...] The reason why we didn't perform a rollback on our servers was because we detected the exploit too late which may make the players lose even more of their gains if we were to turn everything back. Another announcement that includes more details on this incident will go up live shortly (either today or tomorrow as the latest)."]

MassivelyMapleStory Europe's economy collapses due to currency exploit [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chief-banditeconomyexploitexploitshackhackinghacksmaplemaple-storyMapleStorymaplestory-europemesomeso-guardmesospacketrollbackshadowerTue, 01 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gears 'n' glory: MapleStory unveils the Mechanic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/gears-n-glory-maplestory-unveils-the-mechanic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/gears-n-glory-maplestory-unveils-the-mechanic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/gears-n-glory-maplestory-unveils-the-mechanic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nexon's MapleStory has been to the brink of the world's end and beyond with its Big Bang overhaul. Spread out over three significant updates, Big Bang started out with a game mechanics renovation in phase one and a pair of original classes in phase two, not to mention the addition of several new zones. Today, Nexon is happy to announce the onset of the third and final phase to this literal game-changer.

In phase three, titled "Birth of the Mechanic" in honor of the newest class in the game, MapleStory is rolling out one of the more unique MMO classes in the genre. Mechanics are pirate tank-drivers who ride into battle on their trusty mech steeds, unleashing robot minions and throwing out long-range damage while retaining the ability to heal themselves. Mechanics can also hit multiple targets at once, making the class an AoE-lover's dream.

Players wishing to honor the valiant Mechanic can raise their wrenches high on January 22nd and log into the game at precisely 2:00 p.m. PST to receive an SP Reset Scroll and a chance at a few other goodies. Hit the gallery below to check out the Mechanic in all his high-tech glory, and get caught up on Big Bang with our Crystin Cox interview!

Gallery: MapleStory

MassivelyGears 'n' glory: MapleStory unveils the Mechanic originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big-bangbig-bang-updatebirth-of-the-mechanicclasscrystin-coxgalleryinterviewmaple-storymaplestorymechmechanicnexonphase-onephase-threephase-twoThu, 20 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Item-swap controversy hits MapleStory Europe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/item-swap-controversy-hits-maplestory-europe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/item-swap-controversy-hits-maplestory-europe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/item-swap-controversy-hits-maplestory-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

To celebrate the new year, MapleStory Europe recently launched a sale on various cash shop items. Among the discounted items was a series of double experience cards lasting for varying durations, each marked at 15% off the usual price. It wasn't long before players noticed that Nexon had listed the 24-hour double experience card with an expiry time of 90 days instead of of 24 hours. Players flocked to the item shop in droves to take advantage of this amazing deal, many suspecting that the item must have been a mistake. Sure enough, Nexon noticed the mistake after a week and removed the item from the sale.

What followed next has had players in outrage on the MapleStory Europe forums. Nexon removed all of the 90-day double experience cards players had bought in the sale and replaced them with 24-hour versions set to expire the following day. Some players have been voicing their support for the decision, saying that it was obvious that the item had been mis-priced. Others have been less forgiving, pointing out that they wouldn't have bought the item had it not been such a fantastically good deal, and suggesting that Nexon has done this kind of thing before. The game's terms of use agreement has even been cited as an argument that items bought must be honoured up to their purchased due date. Nexon issued an official apology earlier today for the incident but has stood by its decision to remove the offending cards from the game and has not yet issued any refunds for the replaced items.

MassivelyItem-swap controversy hits MapleStory Europe originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-hour90-daydouble-xpfantasyMapleStorymaplestory-europenexonxp-cardThu, 13 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Even though MMOs are the products of great teams of talented workers -- from sound artists to writers -- it's inevitable that a few of the people behind the curtain step out into the limelight. It's a smart move, really; it provides a personal face for people to associate with the game, it keeps messages consistent, and it draws any potential hate onto one person instead of the team at large.

It stands to reason that these public figures end up being some of the major movers and shakers in the industry because of their high-profile positions. From CEOs to community managers, these are the people with power to make decisions, the voice to change opinions, and the personalities to inspire millions.

Oh, that last sentence is pure poetry. Let's re-read it again, shall we?

So in our last Perfect Ten of the year, I've asked the Massively team to compile a list of the 10 biggest MMO movers and shakers of this year. All of these people now owe us cupcakes of gratitude. (Legal Disclaimer: This does not signify a binding cupcake-blogger contract.)

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30-studiosage-of-conanaocarenanetask-crypticbiowarebioware-mythicbree-profred-this-tgachampionschampions-onlinechris-caocoocraig-morrisoncraig-zinkievichcrypticcryptic-studioscupcakecupcake-contractcurt-schillingdan-ericksondan-stahldaniel-ericksondaniel-stahldark-side-of-the-forcedc-universe-onlinedcuoddodungeon-fighter-onlinedungeons-and-dragons-onlineea-biowareend-of-the-yearend-of-the-year-2010engineering-reportseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfourth-pillarfree-to-playfuncomguild-warsguild-wars-2jack-emmertkate-paizlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromabinogimaplestorymike-obrienmin-kimneverwinternexonnexon-nanexon-north-americapaizperfect-10perfect-tenrhode-islandriftrift-planes-of-telarascott-hartsmanstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicstoswtorthe-old-republicthe-perfect-tentortriontrion-worldsturbinevindictusworld-of-warcraftThu, 30 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Twenty-five free MMOs for that shiny new laptop]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/free-for-all-twenty-five-free-mmos-for-that-shiny-new-laptop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/free-for-all-twenty-five-free-mmos-for-that-shiny-new-laptop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/free-for-all-twenty-five-free-mmos-for-that-shiny-new-laptop/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

So there you are, reading a column from your favorite Massively writer on your shiny new laptop. You might be stuck with your parents and family because of the snow, or you might simply want to find a new MMORPG to play on the device. Perhaps you broke down and bought that cute pink netbook at Target, and now you need something to do with it besides reading your favorite writer of all time?

Don't worry, because I've taken the time to compile and test 25 MMOs that will work wonderfully on your new toy! Yes, there are real MMOs out there that are not dependent on the latest graphics card or six gigs of ram. These are fully realized worlds, complete with chat windows and socializing. I will make a note if the game might have some difficulty on the oldest of hardware -- or the least powerful -- so keep an eye out for that. Otherwise, download away!

For the record, this is my new toy. I got it for work, but you know the first thing I had to do was try out gaming on it. Click past the cut to see the list!

Continue reading Free for All: Twenty-five free MMOs for that shiny new laptop

MassivelyFree for All: Twenty-five free MMOs for that shiny new laptop originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurequest-worldsbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedcanaan-onlinecash-shopcode-of-everanddarkorbitdarkwindDofusdomain-of-heroeseternal-landsf2pfeaturedfragoriafree-to-playftpfusionfallglitchgolemizerheroes-of-might-and-magic-onlineindependentIndielinkrealmsmabinogiMapleStorymight-and-magic-heroes-kingdomsmilmopoptropicapuzzle-piratesrunescapeshadowtaletalesweavertibiaunitywizard-101wizard101Wed, 29 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The top indie and free-to-play stories of 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/the-top-indie-and-free-to-play-stories-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/the-top-indie-and-free-to-play-stories-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/the-top-indie-and-free-to-play-stories-of-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

I have to admit to feeling slightly amazed when I read that someone thought of 2010 as a bad year for MMORPG fans. Then, when I think about it, I realize that he was talking about the year in "AAA" subscription gaming -- something almost alien to me. I just don't get turned on by huge-budget subscription games like I did seven or eight years ago. Well, it might be better to say that I am always suspicious of big-budget gaming. Gaming is a lot like movies, and look at how bad most blockbusters are. They are often silly, over-the-top, special-effects-laden bores. If those movies were the only ones I watched, I might be a little depressed about Hollywood as well.

If you pay attention only to what the major publishers are pushing out, you are simply going to have a narrow view of MMO gaming. You will miss too much. The year 2010 offered more than any year before it, and 2011 will top that. Thanks to mobile technologies and the always-dropping price of computers, you will find that smaller or unknown games have much more of a chance of grabbing a gamer's eye than ever before.

So, what were some of the high and low points in free-to-play and indie gaming this year? Click past the cut and let's take a look!

Continue reading The top indie and free-to-play stories of 2010

MassivelyThe top indie and free-to-play stories of 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonallodsallods-onlineapbbattle-of-the-immortalsbeau-hindmanboicash-shopcataclysmchang-youderek-smartend-of-the-year-2010everquestEverQuest-2f2pfeaturedforsaken-worldfree-realmsfree-to-playfreemiumftpgpotatoipadiTuneskingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlegend-of-martial-artslomalord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroMapleStorymicrotransactionMicrotransactionsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpocket-legendsquest-onlineSOESony-Online-EntertainmentUltima-OnlinevanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvelvet-ropevelvet-rope-modelwe-rulewizard-101World-of-Warcraftzentiazentia-mmoTue, 28 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST