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[Flameseeker Chronicles: I hope you like PvE stuff]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/flameseeker-chronicles-i-hope-you-like-pve-stuff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/flameseeker-chronicles-i-hope-you-like-pve-stuff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/flameseeker-chronicles-i-hope-you-like-pve-stuff/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 folks: What a week it's been, am I right? After the flood of impressions and videos after the select press embargo lifted, ArenaNet decided to whip fans into a veritable frenzy by accepting beta signups from Wednesday to Friday. Fan response was insane -- over 1,000,000 signups in under 50 hours. While a few cool kids on the internet have tried to scoff at that number, I really can't -- it's just staggering to me.

If you were on vacation, sick, or hiding under your pet rock between Wednesday and Friday, I'm sorry -- there was a lot going on. You might consider checking out ArenaNet's blog post to catch up, as there's now a link roundup for your convenience. It's like the team wants you to be able to find out stuff about this game it eventually wants you to buy. Next the devs will be making themselves available for question-pelting on Reddit in an effort to promote clear and rapid comm-- oh wait.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: I hope you like PvE stuff

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: I hope you like PvE stuff originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbooksfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-previewgw1gw2kristin-perrymapsncsoftopinionpersonalityTue, 28 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest sets sights on March 16th for free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/everquest-sets-sights-on-march-16th-for-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/everquest-sets-sights-on-march-16th-for-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/everquest-sets-sights-on-march-16th-for-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest
On March 16th, 1999, Sony Online Entertainment launched one of the most monumental MMOs in history, and 13 years later, the studio is taking EverQuest to the next level with a free-to-play model. That's right, SOE's set the date for EQ's F2P conversion to be Friday, March 16 in order to coincide with the game's anniversary.

SOE promises that this won't be the only highlight of the teenage game's big day, as anniversary events will arrive in the game on that date as well.

In the meanwhile, the studio is asking for talented map-makers and artists to submit their own custom maps to be included in the game. There's no specific details yet on this process, but SOE says that it will be asking for these maps soon.

MassivelyEverQuest sets sights on March 16th for free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>13th-anniversaryanniversarycontestcustom-mapseqeverquestf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventsmapmapssoesony-online-entertainmentthirteenth-anniversaryThu, 23 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet reveals new PvP map with four new screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/arenanet-reveals-new-pvp-map-with-four-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/arenanet-reveals-new-pvp-map-with-four-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/arenanet-reveals-new-pvp-map-with-four-new-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Guild Wars 2
Now that it finally has a (rumored) tentative launch window, fans can officially get hyped for Guild Wars 2, only to have their hopes dashed when the release is pushed back. OK, not really (hopefully), but we do have some fancy new screenshots for you folks today courtesy of Guild Wars Insider. ArenaNet has released four new screenshots of a to-be-announced PvP map. Though we have all of no idea what kind of map it is, how it plays, or even what it's called... doesn't matter, new screenshots! To get a look at the new map in all of its splendor, just click on through the link below to Guild Wars Insider.

MassivelyArenaNet reveals new PvP map with four new screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetguild-wars-2gw2mapmapsncsoftnew-pvp-mapplayer-vs-playerpvppvp-mapsscreenshotscreenshotsMon, 30 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How much searching do you want in your game?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/the-daily-grind-how-much-searching-do-you-want-in-your-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/the-daily-grind-how-much-searching-do-you-want-in-your-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/the-daily-grind-how-much-searching-do-you-want-in-your-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

After calibrating the satellite, I'm no longer lost, I'm lost with 95% certainty of where I'm not.
No matter how clear the maps and how many waypoints we get, our first time in any MMO is going to include a whole lot of getting lost. After all, we're not familiar with the game yet. But some games give you plenty of pointers to send you in the right direction, ways to ensure that you know where a given quest is pointing you. It's useful, but at the same time, it means that you aren't exploring the wild reaches in the distance so much as following a glowing blip on your minimap.

Most players aren't clamoring for a return to days when you had to draw maps on graph paper as you walked, but there is something to be said for having a bit more ambiguity in destination. How much do you want to search for things when you play? Do you want to have clearly marked objectives, a wide-open map to explore, or something in the middle?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: How much searching do you want in your game? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturedirectionsgame-mechanicsmapmapsnavigationobjectivesopiniontdgthe-daily-grindwaypointsSun, 15 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks dishes up Tanksgiving and the Update 7.0 trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/world-of-tanks-dishes-up-tanksgiving-and-the-update-7-0-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/world-of-tanks-dishes-up-tanksgiving-and-the-update-7-0-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/world-of-tanks-dishes-up-tanksgiving-and-the-update-7-0-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks
Trust us on this: Never before has the word "fjords" been issued with such goosebump-raising intensity. But such is the World of Tanks and its passionate love for geography and the many, many ways that it can be blown to smithereens.

Wargaming.net is pumping up the hype for Update 7.0 with a new trailer showing off the famous Fjords map, the new camouflage feature, and (of course) massive tank battles. Update 7.0 is currently in public testing for release in the near future.

This week also will see "Tanksgiving" coming to the game on November 24th. During Tanksgiving -- November 24th through the 28th -- select tanks will receive double credits during matches. Wargaming.net promises even more to come with the event, but the studio is keeping its cards tight against its chest until the event arrives.

You can watch the Update 7.0 trailer after the jump!

Continue reading World of Tanks dishes up Tanksgiving and the Update 7.0 trailer

MassivelyWorld of Tanks dishes up Tanksgiving and the Update 7.0 trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fjordfjordsin-game-eventmapsswampstanksgivingthanksgivingtrailerupdate-7update-7.0videowargamingwargaming.networld-of-tankswotTue, 22 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios opens a website portal to Project Copernicus' world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/38-studios-opens-a-website-portal-to-project-copernicus-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/38-studios-opens-a-website-portal-to-project-copernicus-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/38-studios-opens-a-website-portal-to-project-copernicus-world/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Amalur
While 38 Studios' top-secret Project Copernicus MMO lacks a proper title or most of its details, at least we can now visit the world that it and its single-player RPG brother, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, inhabits.

The studio launched a pair of websites devoted to the game world and its first game today. Over on Amalur, 38 Studios has unleashed its loremasters to share with you the stories, features, histories, and settings of this fantasy landscape. And while Reckoning is just a prequel to the eventual MMO, its website contains quite a few lore snippets as well as a world map to pour over while you're planning your future conquests.

As part of the twin projects, R.A. Salvatore has created over 10,000 years of fictional history for the world of Amalur, stretching from The Deep Gloam to the Age of Heroes. Reckoning takes place during the Age of Arcana, with Copernicus happening some time thereafter.

Massively38 Studios opens a website portal to Project Copernicus' world originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosamalurcopernicushistorykingdoms-of-amalurkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningloremapmapsproject-copernicusr-a-salvatorer.a.-salvatorera-salvatorereckoningsalvatorestorywebsitewebsite-launchwebsitesTue, 08 Nov 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Scarlet Legacy prepping mammoth beta update for September 1st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/scarlet-legacy-prepping-mammoth-beta-update-for-september-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/scarlet-legacy-prepping-mammoth-beta-update-for-september-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/scarlet-legacy-prepping-mammoth-beta-update-for-september-1st/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Scarlet Legacy
The open beta MMO that's not afraid to bribe players to come give it a try is gearing up for one of its biggest updates yet. Scarlet Legacy is counting down the hours until it uploads an elephant's worth of content onto the servers for testers to enjoy (and, hopefully, thoroughly vet).

This September 1st content update includes, but is not limited to, an increase in level cap to 45, dozens of new skills, 12 additional stances, three more maps, 68 quests, 46 crafting recipes, 154 weapons and pieces of armor, eight pets, high-level events, and a partridge in a pear tree. Well, maybe not the partridge.

It's hard to say which part of the content update is most enticing, although our money is on the three new maps with intriguing names like Hidden Evil Island and Ancient Grave. There's also a virgin dungeon that's ready to be plundered for its goodies: Soul Trapping Matrix. For story lovers, the tale of Princess Scarlet will be extended up through level 45 to match the level cap increase.

GamesCampus vows to release similarly large updates "at least once a month" from here on out.

MassivelyScarlet Legacy prepping mammoth beta update for September 1st originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-gravearmorbetabribescontent-updatecraftingdungeoneventsf2pfree-to-playhidden-evil-islandlevel-caplevel-cap-increasemapsopen-betapetsprincess-scarletquestsrecipiesscarlet-legacyskillssoul-trapping-matrixstancesweaponsMon, 29 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: LotRO's Rise of Isengard screen captures on display]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-lotros-rise-of-isengard-screen-captures-on-displ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-lotros-rise-of-isengard-screen-captures-on-displ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/gamescom-2011-lotros-rise-of-isengard-screen-captures-on-displ/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online - Isengard map
If you're not in Turbine's Rise of Isengard beta, A Casual Stroll to Mordor has some Gamescom screen caps you might be interested in seeing. Even if you are in the testing phase for Lord of the Rings Online's next expansion, it's worth a look-see if only to glimpse a few things you might've missed.

The screens were captured on a cell phone camera, so the quality isn't worth writing home about, but they do show off an early version of the Isengard map as well as new wound pots, Forthbrond Village, a portion of the Gap of Rohan, the tower of Orthanc, and Saruman impaled on a giant spike just like in the movies! OK, just kidding about that last part, but it was funny seeing you lore-monkeys twitch.

MassivelyGamescom 2011: LotRO's Rise of Isengard screen captures on display originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyforthbrond-villagefree-to-playgamescomgamescom-2011gap-of-rohanisengardlord-of-the-ring-onlinelord-of-the-ringslotromapsmiddle-earthreal-world-eventsrise-of-isengardrise-of-isengard-betaturbinewound-potsFri, 19 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Best in-game maps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/the-perfect-ten-best-in-game-maps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/the-perfect-ten-best-in-game-maps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/the-perfect-ten-best-in-game-maps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

I love me a good map. Seriously. When I was a boy and we'd go on vacations, I think I spent more time flipping through the detailed atlas in the car than looking out of the windows (and how sad is that?). Even today, I'm fascinated with a good map, as it allows my imagination to roam across lands quickly and imagine what they must be like.

In MMOs, maps are one of the most important tools in your user interface. They help orient you, direct you to your next quest objective, allow you to plan a journey in the safest possible manner, and tantalize you with the potentials of unexplored areas. I started to think about how much we rely on a good in-game map when I was reading the Star Wars: The Old Republic dev diary on how that team is implementing their map system.

I've found that in-game maps can be a mixed bag, depending on the game you visit. Some may look great but be functionally useless. Some may be uglier than dirt but hit the spot nevertheless. But the best are the ones that marry good aesthetics with practicality, and those are the ones I want to spotlight today. So without further ado, my favorite in-game maps from MMOs!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Best in-game maps

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Best in-game maps originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaaage-of-conanaionaocblizzarddoodledoodleseveeve-onlinefallen-earthfamily-circusfefeaturedguild-warsgwin-game-mapslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromapmapspyrographyreliefriftstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-forestthe-old-republictollkientopographytorturbinewarwarhammer-onlinewizard101wood-burningworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 14 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What game has your favorite instanced PvP?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/the-daily-grind-what-game-has-your-favorite-instanced-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/the-daily-grind-what-game-has-your-favorite-instanced-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/the-daily-grind-what-game-has-your-favorite-instanced-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

In some ways, it's much easier to design an open PvP environment than an instanced battlefield. All one needs for the former is a world wherein anyone can attack anyone else, but creating an instanced map requires a set of objectives for players to fight over, an interesting layout to create diverse battles, and a balance so that every side within the instanced map will have a fair chance out of the gate. It's similar to creating a solid map for a first-person shooter, but with far more variables at play and much wider ranges of abilities for all participants.

Despite the obstacles, the instanced PvP map has become one of the most common features of games with any sort of PvP system. So which games offer the best instanced PvP experience? Is it Warhammer Online's diverse and varied Scenario maps? RIFT's balanced Warfronts with specialized PvP-only character builds? What game makes instanced PvP feel the most vibrant and interesting in play?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What game has your favorite instanced PvP? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>area-balanceareascombatinstanced-pvpinstancesmapsopinionpvptdgthe-daily-grindzonesSun, 03 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Battle of the Immortals reveals two new instances]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/massively-exclusive-battle-of-the-immortals-reveals-two-new-ins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/massively-exclusive-battle-of-the-immortals-reveals-two-new-ins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/massively-exclusive-battle-of-the-immortals-reveals-two-new-ins/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sharpen your swords and fletch your arrows, because when the Titan update hits in Battle of the Immortals, it'll be time to dive into two of the fiercest dungeons known to mankind.

While we've looked at some of the lore behind the Titan update last week, now it's time to get into the nitty-gritty details of what this patch will bring. Perfect World has created two new maps for players to explore -- and exploit -- in their efforts to become big, rich and powerful: Black Dragon Lair and Giants Kingdom.

The update will also include the much-awaited Generation III pets, which can be bred with two Generation II pets of both genders. Generation IIIs feature faster attack speeds and higher damage output, so it's safe to say they'll be highly desired by players.

Battle of the Immortals' Titan update is scheduled for a July release, but in the meanwhile you can read up on the new dungeons in an exclusive dev blog after the jump!

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Battle of the Immortals reveals two new instances

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Battle of the Immortals reveals two new instances originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-of-the-immortalsblack-dragon-lairdungeondungeonsfeaturedgeneration-iigeneration-iiigeneration-iii-petsgiants-kingdomgunkinstanceinstanceskronosmapmapsmoserperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetpetspwerobotrobotsthird-generation-petstitantitan-updateTue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: A look at Update 1.2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/enter-at-your-own-rift-a-look-at-update-1-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/enter-at-your-own-rift-a-look-at-update-1-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/enter-at-your-own-rift-a-look-at-update-1-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With a rowdy Dwarven "ha ha, YES!" (does anyone else think that cheer was voiced over by Ed McMahon?) and a flash of coin pouches, Update 1.2 arrived in RIFT this past week. It was a rather meaty update, with new content, some well-deserved zone improvements, and the much-discussed looking for group tool.

In this week's Enter at Your Own Rift, we'll take a look at a few notable changes that came along with the update -- for better or worse.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: A look at Update 1.2

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: A look at Update 1.2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bikiniclothesclothiercosmeticscostumesdungeon-finderenter-at-your-own-riftfeaturedleglfg-toolmapmapsriftrift-invasionrift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldsupdate-1.2wardrobewardstonesWed, 18 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks trailer shows off two new maps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/world-of-tanks-trailer-shows-off-two-new-maps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/world-of-tanks-trailer-shows-off-two-new-maps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/world-of-tanks-trailer-shows-off-two-new-maps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

All's been fairly quiet on the World of Tanks front since the free-to-play World War II action MMO went live last April. Today, Wargaming.net has released a new video heralding the upcoming 0.6.4 game update.

The setup is a series of idyllic scenery shots that look to be taken directly from the picturesque landscape of any number of fantasy MMOs. The tranquility doesn't last for long, though, as various tank squads are shown rolling through the countryside and shelling their enemies with abandon. This particular video exists to show off the two new maps coming in the 0.6.4 patch, and despite a relatively short running time (1:30), it does a darn fine job. The Mountain Pass and Prairies regions are vast and rather beautiful -- and a stark contrast to the scarred steel of the player-controlled tanks using the landscape for cover.

Check out all the details after break, and be sure to head to the official World of Tanks website to read the 0.6.4 patch notes.

Continue reading World of Tanks trailer shows off two new maps

MassivelyWorld of Tanks trailer shows off two new maps originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 May 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0.6.40.6.4-patchf2pfree-to-playgame-updatemapsmountain-passnew-mapspatchprairiestrailerupdatevideowargamingwargaming.networld-of-tankswotWed, 11 May 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New iPad MMO Fleck turns real maps into fantasy landscapes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/new-ipad-mmo-fleck-turns-real-maps-into-fantasy-landscapes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/new-ipad-mmo-fleck-turns-real-maps-into-fantasy-landscapes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/new-ipad-mmo-fleck-turns-real-maps-into-fantasy-landscapes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With the sheer number of GPS-enabled devices capable of gaming, it seems inevitable that games will start taking the hard part out of developing intricate maps. Sure enough, the brand-new iPad MMO Fleck is giving you the chance to fight monsters, tend gardens, and meet new friends, all by wandering around in your neighborhood. The game is build on an overlay by Google Maps, letting players explore the fantasy world at the same time that they move through the real world.

The game is currently available for the iPad and browsers, and the team at Self Aware Games is also working on porting the game over to support other mobile devices such as iPhones, Droids, and similar smartphones. The game currently supports play throughout the continental United States as well as portions of southern Canada and northern Mexico. While the game's location-based setup might make travel times a uniquely involved process, iPad owners might well find something to like in Fleck as development continues.

MassivelyNew iPad MMO Fleck turns real maps into fantasy landscapes originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fleckgoogle-mapsipadmapsmmo-on-the-gomobilemobile-devicesmobile-gamesmobile-mmosreal-world-mapsself-aware-gamesSat, 07 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Boss world tour -- Inggison]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/wings-over-atreia-boss-world-tour-inggison/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/wings-over-atreia-boss-world-tour-inggison/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/wings-over-atreia-boss-world-tour-inggison/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Back in January, Wings Over Atreia brought you the first installment of a series highlighting the who, where, what, and even some how of Aion's world bosses. At that time, we took a tour around the land of Heiron and met up with those tough (and some not-so-tough) bosses who taunt players with their juicy, coveted loot. But Heiron is for youngins; this week, we will focus our tour on the playground of the highest levels, the lands of Balaurea -- specifically, Inggison.

It never fails -- the best goodies are never the easy-to-get goodies. As much as Daevas may want to get their hot little hands on some of the weapons, armor, and crafting materials dropped by these world bosses, they have to first find these giants and second actually defeat them. So much easier said than done. On the bright side, some of the mobs are easier to kill and can even be soloed (although they are also well-camped). On the not-bright side, others don't seem to show their faces as often as hungry loot-hunters would like, or they take a friend or 20 to take down. So what's a Daeva to do?

Soar past the cut for some tips, tricks, and a handy map for seeking out those Inggison bosses and convincing them to give up their loot.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Boss world tour -- Inggison

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Boss world tour -- Inggison originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gamebalaureabossbosseseliteelite-grade-mobseliteseternal-grade-lootexploitexploitsfeaturedgold-armorgold-weaponherohero-grade-mobhinthintsInggisonlegendarylegendary-grade-moblootmapsnamed-mobnamed-mobsnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aiontipstricksWings-Over-Atreiaworld-bossworld-bossesMon, 11 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Urban warfare comes to Fantasy Earth Zero]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/urban-warfare-comes-to-fantasy-earth-zero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/urban-warfare-comes-to-fantasy-earth-zero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/urban-warfare-comes-to-fantasy-earth-zero/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fantasy Earth Zero's central conceit is what ultimately stands as an unwinnable contest of thrones, five nations battling for supremacy over the central continent. Up until now, the battle for control of Melpharia has been kept in fields and away from civilization... but that's changing with the addition of new maps bringing the conflict into the city. Two new maps are being added to the game, making up the last part of the game's far-reaching Season 2 update that's included a new class, new features, and now a new set of battlefields.

Due to hit the live servers at some point tomorrow, the new maps are focused around street fighting in both larger urban environments and smaller villages. With Fantasy Earth Zero's emphasis on action-based combat, the narrow streets and limited passageways will have a decisive impact on gameplay. Players will also be treated to a new worldwide single-elimination tournament in the colosseum, with the national rulers using the tournament to determine their most admirable and skilled warriors. It's the sort of thing that could have FEZ players dancing in the streets -- or, as seems more likely, preparing for battle in them.

MassivelyUrban warfare comes to Fantasy Earth Zero originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundsf2pfantasy-earth-zerofezfree-to-playgamepotgamepot-usamapsmelphariapvpsquaresquare-enixurban-combaturban-warfareTue, 09 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: Aion's Beshmundir Temple goes hard mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/exclusive-aions-beshmundir-temple-goes-hard-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/exclusive-aions-beshmundir-temple-goes-hard-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/exclusive-aions-beshmundir-temple-goes-hard-mode/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Assault on Balaurea has been a part of Aion for nearly two months now. Are you getting bored yet? If you feel like you've done all of the new content so much that it's a snooze, get ready for a new challenge.

Beshmundir Temple is going into hard mode. Aion developers have been hard at work on this for a long time, and they've prepared a huge guide for the PowerWiki. You'll find advice, walkthroughs, details on the named bosses, and much more.

The guide will be released next week, but Massively got an exclusive look at it ahead of time. We've formatted it all up into a handy overview for you, so follow along after the jump for a look at what Beshmundir Temple hard mode has to offer!

Continue reading Exclusive: Aion's Beshmundir Temple goes hard mode

MassivelyExclusive: Aion's Beshmundir Temple goes hard mode originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-the-tower-of-eternitybeshmundir-templeboss-fightsboss-skillsdesign-docdesign-documentdeveloper-tourdeveloper-walkthroughdungeondungeonsexclusiveexclusivesfeaturedguideguideshard-modehardmodemapmapsmechanicsncsoftpveskillsstormwingstrategywalkthroughFri, 05 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Maps and quest levels explained for Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/maps-and-quest-levels-explained-for-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/maps-and-quest-levels-explained-for-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/maps-and-quest-levels-explained-for-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Since the earliest days of MMOs, players have asked a very simple question: "Where the heck am I?" And thankfully, the ubiquitous in-game map is there to provide an answer to the question. Of course, it's all too easy to feel a bit lost anyway with Final Fantasy XIV's maps, which are long on flavor and in-game writing and a bit short on what the various symbols actually mean. So the most recent developer dispatch on the official player site has clarified the symbols on the map and helped explain where to find crucial information.

In addition, the dispatch covers the game's strength-indicating icons for monsters, as well as the intervals for new quests. There are also unlocking intervals for new class-specific guildleves, both regional and local. It's a good incentive to continue leveling a few classes instead of dabbling too broadly, something that's a definite possibility with Final Fantasy XIV's permissive cross-class system. Take a look at the full dispatch for more details on the most recent round of developer-answered questions.

MassivelyMaps and quest levels explained for Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classclass-guildlevesclass-questsclass-specific-questsclassesdecipheringdestinationffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivflavorguildlevesiconslevelinglevelslocationmapmapsmonster-strengthnavigationparty-versus-partyshorthandsquaresquare-enixstrengthstrength-gaugesMon, 25 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet releases images from Guild Wars 2 Designing Dynamic Events panel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/arenanet-releases-images-from-guild-wars-2-designing-dynamic-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/arenanet-releases-images-from-guild-wars-2-designing-dynamic-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/arenanet-releases-images-from-guild-wars-2-designing-dynamic-eve/#commentsFiled under: , ,

New races, new lands, and talk of familiar places with a new look. The Guild Wars 2 Dynamic Events panel at PAX stirred up quite a bit of conversation and even more curiosity.

What are these regions? What events are there? What is a krait obelisk for? What does The Great Oouo look like? Guild Wars 2 fans watched all the video taken by hand held cameras at the panel and viewed snapshots of the screen, trying to get a better look.

If you've been dying for an up-close view of the Regrown Flame, orrian undead, and yes, even The Great Oouo, you're in luck. ArenaNet has generously provided Massively with the images used in the panel, so check out the gallery below for the newest look at Tyria of the future!

Gallery: Guild Wars 2 Dynamic Events panel images

MassivelyArenaNet releases images from Guild Wars 2 Designing Dynamic Events panel originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetconcept-artdynamic-eventsguild-wars-2gw2kraitmapsncsoftorrian-undeadpanelPAXpax-2010pax-primepax-prime-2010quagganWed, 15 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's hands-on with End of Nations' PvE and PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-end-of-nations-pve-and-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-end-of-nations-pve-and-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-end-of-nations-pve-and-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

You know that scene in Contact in which Jodie Foster is looking out at the cosmos, telling the folks at mission control that they should have sent a poet? All the while I was playing End of Nations at Trion World's Gamer's Day event, I kept thinking, "Massively should have sent a StarCraft guru!" I initially felt very much out of my element. MMOs and RPGs are my shtick; I only rarely dive into turn-based strategy games. And RTS games? Forget it. They don't agree with me. If it doesn't have a pause button, I probably don't have time for it. I'm too easily distractible, too impatient, and too exhausted after a work-day of multi-tasking to spend my playtime multi-tasking even more. There's just no time for cooking meals, browsing lolcats, and chatting with the spouse when you're neck-deep in an RTS. RTS games are serious business; they require my undivided attention and concentration, and I don't like doing things halfway.

And yet maybe that makes me just the right person to try out an MMORTS hybrid like Trion's EoN. Most people who give it a spin when it hits the market will probably have a lot in common with me -- they'll be loyalists to one side or the other, not to both. Maybe an RTS novice is just the sort of person who can test out the game, present it to MMO gamers, and explain just what the heck this game thinks it's doing playing around in our end of the pool.

Or maybe I'll end up sobbing amidst the charred remains of my tank minions. You'll never know if you don't hit the break!

Gallery: End of Nations Gamer's Day

Continue reading Massively's hands-on with End of Nations' PvE and PvP

MassivelyMassively's hands-on with End of Nations' PvE and PvP originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armycandy-apple-red-is-too-a-good-tank-colorCommandercommander-rolecustomizationend-of-nationseonfeaturedgallerygamers-dayHeadquartersmagadanmapmapsmmortsmovieomanorder-of-nationspetroglyphpetroglyph-studiospreviewpvepvpreally-big-nukeRTSscreenshotsstrategytanktankingtankstrailertrailerstriontrion-worldswarWed, 18 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Just a few weeks ago, I was invited to attend Trion Worlds' Gamer's Day in San Francisco to get some hands-on time with a couple of the company's upcoming titles, including Rift: Planes of Telara. If Rift seems to have come out of nowhere, that might be due both to the acquisition of EverQuest II veteran Scott Hartsman to head the project as executive producer, and to a clever name change meant to reflect the team's shift in development focus.

In fact, that shift in development focus is precisely what I was at Trion's studio to test -- I got to check out the Rifts themselves in all their glory, in the context of the greater dynamic content system that the developers are so excited about. Massively's writers have been able to play and report on character creation and the starting areas of Rift several times over the last year or so, including earlier this summer at E3. But until today's embargo lift (coinciding with the reveal at Gamescom), no one had quite seen the fabled planar invasions and takeovers in action.

Now we have.

Continue reading Massively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content

MassivelyMassively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementAchievementsaddonsalphaalpha-testbattlegroundsbuildscallingCapture-the-flagcharacter-creationcharge-barclericclunkcollectionCollectionscraftingdefiantDemodynamic-contentEarth-Elementalelementalistepic-mountfeaturedfootholdfootholdsgallerygloamwoodgraphicsgroupgroupinggroupsguardianhealershealinghell-levelsheroes-of-telaraholy-city-of-sanctuminstanceinstancesinterfaceinvasionjumpingjust-say-no-to-hell-levelslootmapmapsminimapmodsp2ppay-to-playpetsphilosophyplaneplanesplanes-of-telarapublic-questspvpquestingrealm-of-the-faerespecresurrectionriftrift-planes-of-telarariftsscott-hartsmanscreenshotsshadowlandssoul-walkSteamPunkstrategerystrategysubscriptionswimmingtalent-treestalentstavril-plazatelaratrailertriontrion-worldsUIvideowarfrontwarfrontsWed, 18 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Still clicking: Our exclusive interview with the Mythos dev team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/still-clicking-our-exclusive-interview-with-the-mythos-dev-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/still-clicking-our-exclusive-interview-with-the-mythos-dev-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/still-clicking-our-exclusive-interview-with-the-mythos-dev-team/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Considering Mythos' stormy post-Flagship past and its relatively low profile over the past half year, we were pleased to see the team at Redbana unveil a website revamp last month, complete with a slew of vibrant new screenshots to tease the upcoming closed beta. The infrastructure revealed in the images suggests that the game has come a long way since we last checked in with the team; although many players might once have pigeon-holed Mythos as "just another Diablo clone," it's now maturing into a hybrid MMORPG that seems to have as much in common with Blizzard's other fantasy game as with the click-fests of yesteryear.

Curious, we commandeered the team at Redbana in order to ask about the progress of the game. Meet up with us after the break as we discuss the transition to Redbana, overcoming the Diablo stigma, camera perspectives, map travel, character customization, and the likelihood that Mythos will be free-to-play. Oh, and did I mention you can play satyrs and cyclopes?!

Continue reading Still clicking: Our exclusive interview with the Mythos dev team

MassivelyStill clicking: Our exclusive interview with the Mythos dev team originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bana-cashBlizzardcharacter-customizationclick-click-clickclick-festDiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-clonediablo-iidiablo-iiiDungeon-SiegefeaturedFlagshipflagship-studiosflagshippedfree-cameraguild-warsgwhellgate-londoninterviewInterviewsinventoryIsometriclord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromapmap-travelmapsmythologymythosredbanaskill-treeskill-treesstashtitan-questtorchlightWorld-of-WarcraftwowThu, 15 Jul 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mapping the way to the Soul Master closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/mapping-the-way-to-the-soul-master-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/mapping-the-way-to-the-soul-master-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/mapping-the-way-to-the-soul-master-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

With tons of MMO options available, players are looking for fun and interesting mechanics that might well scratch their gaming itch. That's why the folks at Gamescampus are hoping that their shiny new action MMORTS, Soul Master, will catch players' eyes by offering lots of interesting new maps and challenges to differentiate it from your everyday hack-and-slash game. As the closed beta is set to start "this summer" we're guessing that players won't have too much longer to wait before we start to hear more about this upcoming title.

With most of the mechanics sounding very similar to regular RTS games (creating your own defensive and offensive units, resource gathering, producing upgrades, etc.) and talk of MMO-style raiding thrown in, it's still a bit early to say just precisely where this will land on the MMO spectrum. Nonetheless, we do have a handful of shiny new images featuring different maps and monsters in the gallery below for you to check out. Alternatively, if you'd prefer a taste of the action up-front, there's also a video embedded behind the break for your viewing pleasure.

In either case, if you're an RTS-fiend who wants to see just how far down the MMO rabbit-hole this particular game goes, you can head over to the Soul Master site and sign up for the closed beta.

Gallery: Soul Master

Continue reading Mapping the way to the Soul Master closed beta

MassivelyMapping the way to the Soul Master closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 May 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closed-betaf2pfree-to-playgalleryGamescampusmapsmmortsscreenshotssmsoul-mastervideoWed, 26 May 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Community (roundup)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/22/the-mog-log-community-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/22/the-mog-log-community-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/22/the-mog-log-community-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The state of higher education in Vana'diel is, quite frankly, appalling. It's easy enough to see why -- all of the Scholars are out doing field work instead of staffing any sort of university. Oh, sure, Windurst has its facilities, but most of the professors are too busy chasing skirts or trying to take over the world to bother enlightening any of the students. Let's face it, the only real chance that anyone has of learning anything when it comes to Final Fantasy XI is the community.

It's been a fairly quiet month in terms of big news bursts, but Final Fantasy XIV is still a hot subject of conversation for reasons we can't even begin to fathom. And we've been getting more information on the lore of the game, certainly. Meanwhile, we've got a new version update en route for Final Fantasy XI, so while there hasn't been a great deal new to chat over, there's certainly plenty of things to speculate on. Take a look at some of the community threads we've been pointed to or found after the break.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Community (roundup)

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Community (roundup) originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 May 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eco-warriorfeaturedffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivlevel-caplevelslimit-breakloremapmapspatchesscolarssquaresquare-enixupdatesvanafest-2010Sat, 22 May 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World map and points of interest in latest Final Fantasy XIV update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/20/world-map-and-points-of-interest-in-latest-final-fantasy-xiv-upd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/20/world-map-and-points-of-interest-in-latest-final-fantasy-xiv-upd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/20/world-map-and-points-of-interest-in-latest-final-fantasy-xiv-upd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

When news starts coming from Famitsu regarding Final Fantasy XIV, it usually heralds information coming direct from Square-Enix shortly thereafter. Only a short time after the leak that gave us a look at the world map and some of the points of interest, the official site updated with more information on the world. While there was some information accessible from the prior scans, the new section on Limsa Lominsa details the city extensively, as well as adding sections for the two other city states, Ul'dah and Gridania.

Although the three states each bear some similarities to Final Fantasy XI's great nations, they're quite different in feel and in scope. The biggest similarity seems to be that much like the previous game, they're filled with distinct personalities and locations. Limsa Lominsa is the only city to get full detailing on its landmarks, but those range from the former pirate dive that's been turned into the adventurer's guild (The Drowning Wench) to the city's center at an ancient swamped battleship (The Mizzenmast). Final Fantasy XIV fans are encouraged to take a look at the official site for its updates, which continue to paint the world of Eorzea in broad strokes.

MassivelyWorld map and points of interest in latest Final Fantasy XIV update originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 May 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstoryffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivlimsa-lominsaloremapsofficialofficial-revealsquaresquare-enixworld-mapThu, 20 May 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you like getting lost?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-getting-lost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-getting-lost/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-getting-lost/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


In everything from fantasy to science fiction, maps are important. Frequently, navigation comes down to a character picking up a compass, or a sextant, or activating the cross-subspace differential beacon scanner, picking a direction and then heading that way with all the certainty of an indecisive ferret. But that isn't usually a problem in most MMOs. Hitting the "m" key is frequently pre-bound to bring up your map, and you usually have a minimap as well, in addition to a dot on your map representing exactly where you are and arrows pointing you out where to go. In games that support modifications, you usually have several of them devoted to making navigation even easier for players.

Every so often, however, you wind up underground or in an area where your map doesn't work for whatever reason. And there's something to be said for that sense of adventure, that lack of a map and a clear picture where you're going, to have to just strike off in what you think is the right direction. Today, we ask: do you like being lost and having to find your own way? Does it make the game more invigorating for you? Or is it an obnoxious gimmick designed to frustrate players and force them to take more time for simple objectives?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you like getting lost? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturegimmicksimmersionirritationlostmapsnavigationtdgthe-daily-grindMon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Sense of Space...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/08/a-sense-of-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/08/a-sense-of-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/08/a-sense-of-space/#commentsFiled under: , ,


For entirely unrelated reasons, I've been giving the Vanguard 14-day trial a go. It is a game that has many things, and lacks many things also, but one thing it certainly doesn't lack, is room. Its initial Isle of Dawn starter map is an immense place, and judging by the map tabs for the three different mainland continents, this theme of great open spaces and expansive countryside appears to continue throughout the game. Early quests send you off on lengthy runs to distant places and the minimap barely flinches, suggesting a very large land indeed.

I found myself quite surprised at the distances and travel times involved, and in turn, surprised that I was surprised. Clearly, I have become used to a much smaller kind of vast wilderness in my online gaming, and for a self-diagnosed Bartle Explorer type I wonder if I haven't gotten a bit soft when it comes to all things distance related. Was this a trend that had crept up on me, or does size simply not matter any more, in our MMO gaming?

Continue reading A Sense of Space...

MassivelyA Sense of Space... originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eve-onlinefeaturedguild-warslord-of-the-rings-onlinemapsmountsstar wars galaxiesStarWarsGalaxiestravelworldSat, 08 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Your favorite MMO art?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/the-daily-grind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/the-daily-grind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/the-daily-grind/#commentsFiled under: ,


As MMO fiends, many of us tend to gather game art up as we move from title to title. For some of us, it can be as simple as a folder full of screenshots of particular MMO moments that spoke to us - the first time we saw certain places and admired a designer's vision. Others may have MMO art as a matter of history - we just happened to be around and playing when this game or that started up, and we got a special item they mailed out. Still others of us devotedly pick up Collector's Editions for the bonus included soundtracks or art books. Beyond that, there are posters, fan art and even tattoos based on MMOs. This morning we thought we'd ask what some of your favorite bits of MMO art are? Did you particularly enjoy certain art books? Do you have a big collection of maps from worlds you've traveled in? Perhaps you love an MMO so much that you went and got some ink, or created your own art based on the imagery? What are some of your favorite bits of MMO art?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Your favorite MMO art? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-bookscollectors-editioncomic-booksmapsmmo-artmousepadspostersscreenshotstattoosMon, 20 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Starting out in Vana'diel: Questing and you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/starting-out-in-vanadiel-questing-and-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/starting-out-in-vanadiel-questing-and-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/starting-out-in-vanadiel-questing-and-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


Hello again adventurers! Today's topic is once again back on hard gaming ground instead of community theory as I introduce quests and their purpose.

Questing in Final Fantasy XI is not like questing in other games. Quests exist, but they don't jump out at you with bright yellow exclamation points. NPCs don't scream, "I have things for you to do for me!" Quests don't hold your hand as you pursue their goals. Also, most importantly, quests don't reward experience.

So why bother, right? If you're only going to get come cruddy gold and maybe an item, why should you spend your time doing the quest? Beautiful question, and a very accurate one. Let's take a look at the quest system, what it has to offer you, and how to find some quests at your level with ease.

Continue reading Starting out in Vana'diel: Questing and you

MassivelyStarting out in Vana'diel: Questing and you originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bardsequipmentfamefeaturedffxiffxiclopediafinal-fantasy-xiitemsjoystiqfeaturesmapsmog-housemog-house-exitquestingquestsrare-itemsreputationstarting-out-in-vanadielTue, 24 Mar 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Detailed LotRO maps document a year of new content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/detailed-lotro-maps-document-a-year-of-new-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/detailed-lotro-maps-document-a-year-of-new-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/detailed-lotro-maps-document-a-year-of-new-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2008 has been a great year for Lord of the Rings Online. Not only for the exploding playerbase, but also for the amazing amount of content that has been added to the game since it launched. This includes everything from new classes, housing, hobbies, trophies, weapons, armor, and of course, new areas to explore.

As a testament to this, the wonderful fan site Visions of the Ring has compiled a "before" and "after" set of maps showing the areas we had available a year ago versus the areas we have to explore now. You'll notice the addition of Forochel, Eregion, the Mines, Lothlorien and more. These maps are taken and compiled from the overhead radar map, so the detail is all there. While you're at the site, be sure to check out the Interactive Horse Routes Flash Map, the Homesteads Flash Maps and the Speculated Expansions Flash Map, which is said to be updated for the new year's expanded areas very soon.

MassivelyDetailed LotRO maps document a year of new content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>areasexpansionslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromapsturbinevisions-of-the-ringzonesWed, 31 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bringing WAR to the web]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/bringing-war-to-the-web/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/bringing-war-to-the-web/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/bringing-war-to-the-web/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Any massively multiplayer online game built around the twin pillars of PvP and territorial control can't go wrong by providing realtime status updates of the struggle via the web. Warhammer Online has endeavored to do just that with the Realm War site, as addressed in a dev diary by the title's Web Development Lead, Scott Stricklin. The dev blog touches on what Mythic has accomplished thus far with bringing WAR to the web, and what they hope to accomplish in the future -- namely, podcasts, community news, and character and guild profiles. While they have no shortage of ideas about how to expand WAR outside of the client, their first objective has been to bring Realm vs. Realm data to the web. That goal has now been realized, and Stricklin walks the reader through the features of the newly revamped Realm War site.

Players now have access to updated information about the overall campaign and the status of each capital city, Stricklin writes. This information is also presented visually, with each capital city's look changing based on its status, ranging from peaceful to besieged. This can all be kept in a pop up box in your browser to provide continual updates for when the tide of battle turns. Further information is provided through selectors which represent a server's racial pairings, giving a snapshot of what's happening with each tier's zone control. An added bonus to this are influence maps for each zone, similar to the in-game maps, which show the status of the various RvR objectives and allow a player to mouse over keeps, seeing when it was last captured and by which guild. Have a look at Scott Stricklin's dev diary for more on the Realm War site, or better yet, just head over there and try it out for yourself.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyBringing WAR to the web originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capital-citiesdestructionea-mythicendgamefantasygame-mechanicsinfluence-mapkeepkeepsmapsmythic-entertainmentorderpvpracesrealm-vs-realmrealm-warrealm-war-sitervrscott-stricklinterritorial-controltierswarwarhammer-onlinezone-controlzonesFri, 21 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wrath of the Lich King 101]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/wow-insiders-wrath-101-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/wow-insiders-wrath-101-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/wow-insiders-wrath-101-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


The much-anticipated Wrath of the Lich King expansion has arrived for World of Warcraft, and may well be one of the most popular expansions we've ever seen in the MMO industry. That said, WoW players may find themselves a bit overwhelmed by their unfamiliar surroundings. Fortunately, our friends over at our sister site WoW Insider have been tearing into WotLK, and put together a series of guides called "Wrath 101." The WoW Insider guides will give you an in-depth look at the Wrath expansion's geography, and help you to find your way around. We've rounded up the entire guide series and assembled them for you here. Enjoy, and keep watching Massively for our ongoing news and features focusing on the Wrath of the Lich King expansion.
Wrath 101: How to get to Northrend and where to go once you're there
How do I get to Northrend? For Alliance, head to the northernmost dock at Stormwind Harbor to get to Borean Tundra or take the boat out of Menethil Harbor in the Wetlands to be dropped off in Howling Fjord.
Wrath 101: Level 70 PvP gear
If you were looking forward to getting gear upgrades through Honor at Level 70 when Wrath of the Lich King finally arrives in a few days, you probably shouldn't hold your breath. I know I advised doing a lot of PvP, but I meant that you should be keeping all that Honor for Level 80 rewards.
Wrath 101: Getting from Borean Tundra to Howling Fjord and vice versa
One of the questions frequently asked is which zone will you be leveling in first? A large majority of players will pick Borean Tundra or Howling Fjord. Why not both?
Wrath 101: Alliance flight paths in Howling Fjord, Borean Tundra, and Dragonblight
We'll all be storming the (figurative) gates of Northrend, in one of two zones: Borean Tundra and Howling Fjord. The zones are pretty large, but fortunately, they're replete with flight paths.
Wrath 101: Horde flight paths in Howling Fjord, Borean Tundra, and Dragonblight
Previously, we covered the Alliance flight paths of the first three zones in Northrend. Now it's the Horde's turn.

Continue reading Wrath of the Lich King 101

MassivelyWrath of the Lich King 101 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionsfantasyguideslaunchesmapstips-and-tricksworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwow-insiderwrathwrath-101wrath-of-the-lich-kingThu, 13 Nov 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Keeping yourself alive in EVE with safespots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/keeping-yourself-alive-in-eve-with-safespots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/keeping-yourself-alive-in-eve-with-safespots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/keeping-yourself-alive-in-eve-with-safespots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Learning how to create safespots in EVE Online is an essential survival skill, but it's one that takes some time to get the hang of. The Goonfleet video tutorial to safespotting is an excellent start, but other player resources are popping up and explain how important it is to have and properly use different types of safespots.

EVE blogger Manasi has written an excellent guide to safespotting called "Getting your A$$ out of the fire" that covers the different types of safespots a player in EVE can make use of. Namely, "gate" safespots (useful for watching a gate at range while cloaked), "deep" safespots (used most often, numerous such bookmarks are needed), and "station" safespots (within docking range of a given station, allowing you to evade attackers by docking up). Manasi goes into detail about how to create each type of safespot, and -- most importantly -- how to use them. Manasi's "Getting your A$$ out of the fire" paired with the aforementioned Goonfleet Safespotting 101 are all you need to get a handle on safespotting in EVE Online. Be sure to check them both out if you're a new pilot. Goonfleet's Safespotting 101 video tutorial is embedded below the cut.

Continue reading Keeping yourself alive in EVE with safespots

MassivelyKeeping yourself alive in EVE with safespots originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mule-in-eveccpccp-gamesevadeevasioneveeve-onlinegame-mechanicsgoonfleetgoonswarmguidesmanasimapmapssafespotsafespottingsci-fisurvivalsystem-maptips-and-tricksvideoMon, 15 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online's answer to GPS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/eve-onlines-answer-to-gps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/eve-onlines-answer-to-gps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/eve-onlines-answer-to-gps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online is a vast setting where all players interact in one galaxy. While other MMOs are sharded across different servers, some with different locales, EVE places all of its players together. Its implementation ensures that many servers seem to be just one from the perspective of any pilot flying in New Eden. However, given the daunting size of EVE's explorable environment, there have been some players who took it upon themselves to map the known universe and release their findings as a resource for other pilots. Shayne Smart, aka Serenity Steele, is one such player. He's been getting some media attention in recent months as Vice-Chairman of the Council of Stellar Management (CSM). Beyond his duties on the CSM, Smart is also well-known to many players as the creator of EVE Strategic Maps, a spiral bound collection of star charts which some fans of the game find indispensable.

You would think Smart would find mapping out 5000 solar systems (each with its own myriad planets, moons, stations, and other resources) a feat hard to top. But what Smart's done is found a way to use the in-game browser in the EVE client to act as a sort of GPS, tracking your position as you jump from one solar system to the next, and allowing you to better see your relative position in the galaxy as part of your overview. The cartographer's latest 'minimap' effort is presently 2-D only and in beta, though is well worth a look and quite simple to use. Click the gallery below for Shayne Smart's instructions on how to use the free 2D minimap within your in-game browser.


Gallery: Serenity Steele's 2D minimap

Minimap overviewA few tipsThe map will track your locationClick on the minimap to begin a searchSearch maps vs. auto-update maps

MassivelyEVE Online's answer to GPS originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartographercartographyccpccp-gamescommunitycouncil-of-stellar-managementcrazykinuxcsmeveeve-mapseve-onlineeve-strategic-mapeve-strategic-mapsgalleriesgame-mechanicsgpsigbin-game-browsermapmapsminimapminimap-addonsnew-edenoverviewresourcessci-fiserenity-steeleshane-smartsolar-systemsstarchartsstarmapsstellar-cartographerstellar-cartographytips-and-tricksFri, 05 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Empyrean Age factional warfare map included with newest E-ON issue]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/empyrean-age-factional-warfare-map-included-with-newest-e-on-iss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/empyrean-age-factional-warfare-map-included-with-newest-e-on-iss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/empyrean-age-factional-warfare-map-included-with-newest-e-on-iss/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EVE Online's latest dev blog comes from Zapatero, one of the staff at E-ON, the quarterly magazine all about EVE. Our own Massively columnist Brendan Drain, aka Nyphur, has been a past contributor to E-ON, which should give you an idea of how in-depth some of the articles are. The magazine is a useful resource for any serious player of the game and the fiction is pretty solid as well, it's just a shame that there's a few-month gap between each issue's release. Maybe it was that wait that pushed him over the edge, but rumor has it one of the Massively writers snapped and bought every back issue of E-ON, but we think that he's unhealthily obsessed anyway.

Zapatero writes that E-ON is about to celebrate its third year in operation with the release of issue 12, which will ship on July 4th. As a bonus to readers, it will include a free poster of the Empyrean Age New Eden star cluster, to aid players who have enlisted in factional warfare. The map was created by Council of Stellar Management (CSM) delegate Serenity Steele, who also brought EVE Strategic Maps (a book of star charts) to fans of the game. The free poster map will include region names and outposts. Faction warfare-enabled regions will be highlighted and the security status of each system will be color-coded. For those who actually have EVE Strategic Maps, the poster is cross-referenced with the book, although Zapatero states that the map will be useful on its own. He outlines what will be in issue 12 in his dev blog; if the content matches up to what the E-ON staff has put out in past issues, it should be worth checking out.

Continue reading Empyrean Age factional warfare map included with newest E-ON issue

MassivelyEmpyrean Age factional warfare map included with newest E-ON issue originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescouncilcsmdevdev-bloge-onempyrean-ageeveeve-onlinefactionfactional-warfaremagazinemapmapsnew-edennyphurserenity-steelezapateroThu, 03 Jul 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythos Overworld delayed; more beta news leaks out]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/mythos-overworld-delayed-more-beta-news-leaks-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/mythos-overworld-delayed-more-beta-news-leaks-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/mythos-overworld-delayed-more-beta-news-leaks-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


Flagship Studios sends their regrets, but the mega-update to Mythos that would turn their heavily instanced over world into one seamless land spattered, Oblivion-like, with dungeons has been delayed. Due yesterday, it now looks as if Mythos beta testers will have to wait until next week to run naked and free ... through Mythos' world of Uld, at any rate.

To tide us over while we wait, player Kirent has compiled a list of all the interesting snippets of developer responses to questions about the delay. Characters won't be wiped when the Overworld goes live, but they likely will be wiped when the test server is folded into the live beta server, after which open beta will likely begin. Zones 2 and 3 (mid and high level areas) won't be enabled initially, but we knew that. The pressures of pushing the Overworld out the door means that new monsters, dungeons, and quests won't be in in any significant way. Most of the crafting changes will be on the test server, but the balancing of the heraldries (temporary buffs applied to crafted items) will not be. Special armor sets, a new class (!!!) , retirement (here you voluntarily retire a high level character to start a new character with some sort of advantage) and any sort of endgame are all taking a back seat to the Overworld. However, it sounds like Epic weapons will be in.

Mythos is currently slated to release late this year. It will be free to play, but with an item store where you can buy items for real money, though you will be able to see and do everything in the game without paying a cent. Bored with waiting for the update? Kanthalos at MMOre Insight has been writing a series of articles about the best character builds for maximum wtfpwnage -- check it out!

MassivelyMythos Overworld delayed; more beta news leaks out originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclassescraftingfantasyflagship-studiosfree-to-playkanthalosmapsmmore-insightmythosnew-titlesnewsoblivionpatchesFri, 16 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE strategic maps warping your way]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/20/eve-strategic-maps-warping-your-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/20/eve-strategic-maps-warping-your-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/20/eve-strategic-maps-warping-your-way/#commentsFiled under: , ,


EVE is a big place, a really big place. Going from one end of the galaxy to the other not only takes an incredible amount of time, but it is also filled with numerous dangers. If you're not careful, you'll find yourself lost, surrounded, and a frozen testament to the power of missiles. Sure, there is that little in game map that you have to zoom into, plan your route, and then hope all is peachy along the way. However, it is confusing trying to navigate an escape route in three dimensions when it's you, your ore, and some angry rebel outlaws who just decided to say hello.

Though we are no where near a soothing voice telling us to "Warp to KLY-CO gate, avoid war zone, destination on right," we will soon have a booklet of useful maps to navigate by. What is so massively awesome about this? The maps are strategic maps. Want to put a mechanical parrot on your shoulder and pirate? They can tell you where useful choke points are. Want to PvP? Head down to a certain system and let loose the dogs of war. Want to mine peacefully while listening to Mozart? Go ahead and check out a few ice fields in empire. The maps should help get you to your destination easily and safely. If not, we still have clone vats and insurance to fall back on.

MassivelyEVE strategic maps warping your way originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eveeve-mapseve-onlineeve-strategic-mapmapspvpSun, 20 Apr 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan-made LotRO map guesses at expansion details: Mordor in 2012!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/fan-made-lotro-map-guesses-at-expansion-details-mordor-in-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/fan-made-lotro-map-guesses-at-expansion-details-mordor-in-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/fan-made-lotro-map-guesses-at-expansion-details-mordor-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


This has been out there for a while now, but if you haven't already seen it then it's definitely worth a look. Visions of the Ring has a player-made map that speculates a time line for Lord of the Rings Online expansions. It is flash-based, and you can scroll by months or years and see when the map creator Hayoo expects different content will be added, and what the overall game map will look like at any particular time.

Before you go thinking, "What a nutjob!", and dismiss the whole thing, Hayoo has a lot of reasoning behind the map's dates and the order in which things will come.

Continue reading Fan-made LotRO map guesses at expansion details: Mordor in 2012!

MassivelyFan-made LotRO map guesses at expansion details: Mordor in 2012! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Dec 2007 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012hayooingamelotromapsmordornutjobplayer-madevisions-of-the-ringMon, 10 Dec 2007 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer maps on Ten Ton Hammer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/17/warhammer-maps-on-ten-ton-hammer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/17/warhammer-maps-on-ten-ton-hammer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/17/warhammer-maps-on-ten-ton-hammer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Seriously, there are so many puns for this one I will just steer clear of them all. Ten Ton Hammer has outdone themselves, publishing a Cartographer's Corner with all the lovely mapage from Warhammer Online that you could ask for, and even some you didn't. The maps themselves seem to be drawn by characters within the game, and give us more than just a sense of the vastness of this landscape. We're shown that this game will definitely have a sense of humor (just check out the sample above to see "wut" I'm talking about.)

All told the current number of maps in the corner totals 19, and it looks like they are still expecting a few to fill out their collection. Are they MMO players or what! If you are at all interested in what this world looks like, pop on over to Ten Ton, and tell them Amanda sent you.

MassivelyWarhammer maps on Ten Ton Hammer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Oct 2007 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-reckoningmapswarhammerWed, 17 Oct 2007 16:29:00 EST