Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Soapbox: Mechanical buildup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/the-soapbox-mechanical-buildup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/the-soapbox-mechanical-buildup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/the-soapbox-mechanical-buildup/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

I was in high school when I discovered a love for simplified tabletop games. I'd long been fond of the absurdly detailed and baroque structure that you could find in Advanced Dungeons & Dragons, going so far as to purchase all of the various little add-ons that allowed you to reinvent the game systems in dizzying density. And I can pinpoint the moment when I decided that all of that was for the birds.

Specifically, it was the moment when I sat there with Skills & Powers open to one page, the Player's Handbook open to another, and the Complete Psionics Handbook open to yet another. It was when I stared at three separate passages and realized that I was on the second hour of making a character that resembled nothing so much as a math project. On that day, I understood intuitively why designers would look at the whole thing and advocate sweeping the mess away altogether -- just like what many, many MMOs do as they grow long in the tooth.

Continue reading The Soapbox: Mechanical buildup

MassivelyThe Soapbox: Mechanical buildup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>designeditorialfeaturedgame-mechanicsgame-systemsmechanical-cruftmechanicsop-edopinionrantrantssoapboxsystemsthe-soapboxFri, 30 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's lead designer explains abilities, skills, gear, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - beta ability wheel
Funcom's been pretty quiet since its GDC reveal of The Secret World. Today, though, lead designer Martin Bruusgaard has dropped the smack down on the information void via a lengthy blog post on the game's official site.

You'll probably want a couple of caffeinated beverages for this one because Bruusgaard has a lot to say about The Secret World's abilities, skills, gear, progression, and crafting systems. We would try to summarize it for you, but we'd still be typing this time tomorrow, so suffice it to say that basically every mechanical question you have about the game is at least touched on in this post.

There are plenty of interesting tidbits too, like the fact that TSW is shaping up to be one of the more non-linear experiences to be found among the latest crop of AAA MMORPGs. "The players are free to go wherever they want from the beginning, but they will most likely get their ass handed to them in the more difficult zones," Bruusgaard explains.

MassivelyThe Secret World's lead designer explains abilities, skills, gear, and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diaryfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormartin-bruusgaardmechanicsmythologyprogressionsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskillsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-craftingthe-secret-world-mechanicsthe-secret-world-progressiontswMon, 26 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Misunderstandings about our robot overlords edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/ask-massively-misunderstandings-about-our-robot-overlords-editi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/ask-massively-misunderstandings-about-our-robot-overlords-editi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/ask-massively-misunderstandings-about-our-robot-overlords-editi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Unfortunately, afterwards there will still be a lot of novelty robots out of a job.
As I personally have no real reservations about the impending destruction of human society by perfect killer robots, I thought I'd take the opportunity to dispel certain misunderstandings about living under the thumb of mechanical overseers. Specifically, I'd like to dispel the idea that we'll be living. Robots wouldn't be sending us to work in mines; they can build machines to do that faster than our frail organic bodies. Not to mention that those machines would whine a lot less. So don't worry! You won't be toiling for a monolithic AI for years; you'll just be obliterated or used as organic building material. Doesn't that make things better?

In unrelated news, it's time for this week's installment of Ask Massively, which focuses on the question of raw, unfettered action. If you've got a question you'd like to see in a future installment of the column, mail it along to ask@massively.com or leave it in the comments below. Questions may be edited slightly for clarity and/or brevity.

Continue reading Ask Massively: Misunderstandings about our robot overlords edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: Misunderstandings about our robot overlords edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionadviceadvice-columnask-massivelycombatculturedevelopmentfeaturedgame-mechanicshumorindustry-trendsmassively-metamechanicsmetaopinionThu, 22 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online puts you in contact with your duty officers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/star-trek-online-puts-you-into-contact-with-your-duty-officers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/star-trek-online-puts-you-into-contact-with-your-duty-officers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/star-trek-online-puts-you-into-contact-with-your-duty-officers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you're hoping that one of the assignments from your CMO is Unresolved Romance Subplot, well, I can't blame you.
It's easy to forget from time to time, but no matter what level you're at in Star Trek Online, you've got a pretty big ship under your command. That means there are all sorts of people who need help, all manner of different departments to address, and generally enough running around to fill an hour of programming every week for seven years. The game's newest patch, which rolls out this week, aims to address that feel by adding several assignment contacts to your ship interior, fleshing out the ship and offering you another set of content to explore.

Some of the assignments offered within your ship are new, while others allow you to further focus your efforts on a given commendation category. Almost all of them involve seeking out and speaking to the appropriate part of your duty roster, meaning that your Engineering officer will be in charge of a plethora of Engineering-related assignments. It's a great chance to get to know your crew as more than just piles of stats, and it should give you just a bit more of that ever-important Star Trek feel.

MassivelyStar Trek Online puts you in contact with your duty officers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosduty-officersf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsmechanicsofficerspatchpatchesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoWed, 21 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Okay. Maybe this is okay. Maybe it just wants a bacon strip.
The Secret World is going to feature a lot of different monsters to contend with, and that means a lot of different tricks to deal with all of them. We've known for a while that the game will feature a freeform skill system, but in a recent video diary the development staff shows off some of these freeform skills in action and in visual flow. As stated before, players can pick any different combination of skills and abilities from the skill wheel, with the big key simply being to look for synergy between your various abilities.

Regardless of what your character has unlocked, you'll be limited to seven active abilities and seven passive abilities at any given time, thereby ensuring that more experienced characters will have more options rather than more raw power. The video also talks about templates to help guide new players and the game's equipment system, all of which emphasize the role of players in determining how they want to play. If this sounds right up your alley, take a look at the full video diary just past the break.

Continue reading The Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression

MassivelyThe Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesdev-diarydeveloper-diaryfactionfantasyfreeform-progressionfuncomgame-mechanicshorrormechanicsmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskill-progressionskillsthe-secret-worldtswvideovideosWed, 21 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Digital Enhancements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/a-mild-mannered-reporter-digital-enhancements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/a-mild-mannered-reporter-digital-enhancements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/a-mild-mannered-reporter-digital-enhancements/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Illustration by A. Fienemann
Last week, I covered the raw basics of Enhancements in City of Heroes. This was a good place to start, but it also glossed over everything but the basics. It's telling that glossing over everything but the basics still involves stuff that's as bogglingly complicated as diversification, but then, there's a reason I decided to do these columns in the first place. But with all the basics out of the way, what more could there be to cover?

Lots, as it happens, because last week didn't touch upon dual Enhancements or Inventions, both of which cover the same ground and take into account the specifics of Enhancement Diversification and so forth. So for those of you wondering why I didn't talk about IOs, those still trying to get a handle on the system, or those just morbidly curious about how the game works, it's time to start in with the enhancements that broke the entire system in half more or less the second they were introduced: Inventions.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Digital Enhancements

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Digital Enhancements originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mild-mannered-reportercity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcraftingenhancementsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomgame-mechanicsinventionsmechanicsmild-mannered-reporterncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiossuperherosuperheroessystemsWed, 21 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall believes in magic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/darkfall-believes-in-magic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/darkfall-believes-in-magic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/darkfall-believes-in-magic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Okay, not believing in magic is a mite hard at times in a magical fantasy world.
There are a lot of changes in the pipeline for Darkfall, but it's safe to say that whatever else changes in the game, magic will remain important. The newest development blog for the game discusses the revised state of low-level magic and some of the basics of more powerful magic as well. Every character can use the lowest tier of magic, which mixes both Intelligence and Wisdom as important stats and can be cast regardless of what the character is wearing. Known as Minor Incantations, the school contains only five spells, but they're all of basic utility, ranging from basic magical damage to a simple self-healing spell.

Beyond the earliest steps, the developers have taken pains to try to make magic more balanced and interesting. The biggest element in spell potency is the governing attribute of the spell (Intelligence or Wisdom), but the level of the spell, the staff being used by the caster, and the overall level of the magic school in question all come into play. Take a look at the full diary to get a better sense of where the game's mystical arts are heading in the future.

[Thanks to Dengar for the tip!]

MassivelyDarkfall believes in magic originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agonaventurinedarkfalldffantasygame-mechanicsmagicmechanicsnewsopen-pvppvpsandboxupdatesThu, 15 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online talks about bringing ship trees to ship shape]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/eve-online-talks-about-bringing-ship-trees-to-ship-shape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/eve-online-talks-about-bringing-ship-trees-to-ship-shape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/eve-online-talks-about-bringing-ship-trees-to-ship-shape/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Because you can never have enough internet spaceships, right?
Every MMO has to face an issue of complexity creep, and EVE Online is no exception. The current trees for ship progression and skill advancement are the result of numerous patches, additions, and alterations to a core system that's left an enormous mess behind. As a result, the whole system is in need of an overhaul, one that the most recent development blog discusses in detail.

The first changes involve cleaning up and streamlining the progression system so that ships such as Destroyers and Battlecruisers are a part of the standard path rather than unusual deviations. There's also a removal of some of the more labyrinthine requirements for tech 2 ships. The other major focus is a removal of the current system of ship tiers, with the developers trying to specialize ships based on roles and make each hull useful in its own fashion. EVE Online players are going to be seeing a big upheaval in the way that ships work in the future, so it's probably a good idea to get a feel for where the changes are arriving sooner rather than later.

MassivelyEVE Online talks about bringing ship trees to ship shape originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balanceccpccp-gameseveeve-onlineeve-shipsgame-mechanicsgame-systemsinternet-spaceshipsmechanical-balancemechanicssandboxsci-fiship-tiersshipsspreadsheets-onlinesystemsTue, 06 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Ballad of a teenage Zorai]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/choose-my-adventure-ballad-of-a-teenage-zorai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/choose-my-adventure-ballad-of-a-teenage-zorai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/choose-my-adventure-ballad-of-a-teenage-zorai/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

I did get some great screenshots out of Ryzom, I have to say.
Last week, the unthinkable happened. Or at least the unprecedented. Yes, after a dozen or so columns under my belt for Choose My Adventure, one of the "joke" choices finally won a poll. Either everyone thought that the paradise city was actually a thing in Ryzom or the impassioned pleas in the comments the week before had done the trick.

For those of you under the misapprehension that this was, in fact, an actual thing, I apologize for the not particularly elaborate act of deception.

My question to myself, at this point, was what I actually had to do at this point. Did this mean that I had to search through every city in the game to find a paradise, only to discover at the end that paradise had metaphorically been at home the whole time? Was I already in the paradise city, judging by the fact that some people would call the jungle a virtual paradise? The girls were pretty, the grass was green, and by almost any metric you cared to use, Corlede was as close to home as she was getting.

But no, I knew what I had to do. Something I had known since I started playing. I went home.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Ballad of a teenage Zorai

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Ballad of a teenage Zorai originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurecmacolumncolumnscriticismculturedesigndesign-decisionsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsmechanicsopinionparallelspollpollsryzomsystemsthe-saga-of-ryzomwinch-gatewinch-gate-property-limitedWed, 29 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/why-i-play-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/why-i-play-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/why-i-play-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One of the first shots I took from beta.
From the moment I set foot in the beta to Final Fantasy XIV, I was hooked. This, if you somehow managed to miss everything going on around the game's launch, was the exact opposite of most players' reactions. Most people found the interface clunky and counterintuitive, the main form of content repetitive, and the combat system awkward and frequently frustrating.

Here's the thing: None of those statements is wrong. The game has made enormous progress over the past year toward fixing those issues, but the players like yours truly who do enjoy the game don't love these elements. They love the game that lies underneath all of that, the design elements that shine through despite a lot of hoops you have to jump through first.

I enjoyed the game at launch. I enjoy the game now, and based on what I've seen so far, I'm going to enjoy the game in the future. There's something very special about the game amidst all of the downsides, something that made me decide back in beta that even if this game is going to take extra work to play, it's going to reward the effort.

Continue reading Why I Play: Final Fantasy XIV

MassivelyWhy I Play: Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>complexityculturefeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgatheringmechanicsopinionsquaresquare-enixwhy-i-playWed, 29 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online rolling out Role and Stat changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/champions-online-rolling-out-role-and-stat-changes-stat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/champions-online-rolling-out-role-and-stat-changes-stat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/champions-online-rolling-out-role-and-stat-changes-stat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Balance isn't a stat. It's just a good idea.
Like many MMOs, Champions Online is at its heart a game of numbers. Your character type focuses on certain stats, and you want to make those stats go higher. But sometimes the way those stats work together is a bit less than intuitive in the live game, hence some recent changes to Super Stats and regular stats on the test servers. The biggest change assigns one primary and two secondary, rather than two Super Stats, to players, which alleviates the current problems with Super Stats (certain pairs of Super Stats work poorly together and are poorly represented in itemization).

Individual stats have also seen some tweaks: Strength is no longer hard-capped for melee damage, Presence has had its threat component removed and a soft-cap introduced, Ego is now solely a ranged stat, and Dexterity has seen improvements to its critical benefits. Roles are also being balanced differently, giving more consistent stat benefits that are more in line with what players in a given role will actually need to do. It's a pretty sweeping set of changes, but the end goal is to give Champions Online players a more straightforward numbers game to play.

MassivelyChampions Online rolling out Role and Stat changes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesbalancebalance-changeschampions-onlinecharacter-buildscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsmechanicsnewsperfect-world-entertainmentpwestatisticsstatssystemstestFri, 24 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A closer look at Guild Wars 2 world vs. world PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/a-closer-look-at-guild-wars-2-world-vs-world-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/a-closer-look-at-guild-wars-2-world-vs-world-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/a-closer-look-at-guild-wars-2-world-vs-world-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Trebuchets lob death over the battlements of Stonemist Castle, the gigantic central stronghold in the Mists.
Guild Wars 2's competitive 5-player PvP has been getting a lot of love lately. To even the score, ArenaNet has put up a blog post dedicated to the second PvP type in Guild Wars 2: world vs. world, in which three servers compete in a two-week battle for glory.

Each WvW arena is made up of four huge maps. Each map is capable of holding more than 100 players from each of three factions (servers), which means that upwards of 1,200 concurrent players will be able to get in on the large-scale action. The beauty of having three teams duking it out is that things tend to balance themselves out naturally. If one team goes beast-mode and starts making life miserable for everybody, the other two teams can naturally gang up to fight against the first.

Although lore justification might be a little tricky, in a world with as much magitech the Guild Wars universe already plays host to, it's not too hard to imagine that people from alternate versions of the same world get spat into yet another mutually accessible copy of the world, where their first inclination is (naturally) to start beating the crud out of each other.

Continue reading A closer look at Guild Wars 2 world vs. world PvP

MassivelyA closer look at Guild Wars 2 world vs. world PvP originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogGuild-Wars-2guild-wars-2-previewgw2loremechanicsncsoftnewsplayer-vs-playerpvpseigethe-mistsworld-vs-worldwvwThu, 16 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs answers questions about Class3's open world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/undead-labs-answers-questions-about-class3s-open-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/undead-labs-answers-questions-about-class3s-open-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/undead-labs-answers-questions-about-class3s-open-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Zombie piloting has a negative effect on airline safety.
Undead Labs has been putting out a steady stream of information for potential players of Class3, the company's upcoming single-player prelude to the massively multiplayer Class4. The last major update in January showed some previews of the game under development, something that prompted a great deal of discussion about how the game will play. As a result, this month's session of questions and answers focuses on player speculation and the game's open-world environment.

According to this set of answers, players will be able to explore the game through a variety of means, including taking shelter inside the houses across the landscape, jumping over fences, and making careful use of vehicles found through the world. There's also discussion about making use of the environment as a weapon via ragdoll physics plus a tantalizing hint that more information will be forthcoming about the game in the spring. Fans of the upcoming zombie apocalypse will want to take a look at the full set of answers, which will hopefully serve as a precursor to an epic MMO in the same vein.

MassivelyUndead Labs answers questions about Class3's open world originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class3class4game-mechanicsmechanicsopen-worldpreviewsq-and-aquestions-and-answersundead-labsupcoming-titleszombiezombie-survivalzombiesSun, 12 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Craft it one piece at a time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/choose-my-adventure-craft-it-one-piece-at-a-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/choose-my-adventure-craft-it-one-piece-at-a-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/choose-my-adventure-craft-it-one-piece-at-a-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Said Corlede in... well, not snow.
Sometimes, a well-planned weekend turns into a complete mess. Case in point: This past weekend, which I fully meant to use to get more of a footing in Ryzom, wound up being almost entirely dominated by a mixture of other responsibilities and necessities. As a result, I didn't get nearly as much time playing the game as I would have liked. The plan is to spend more time crafting away over the course of the week, but this article needs to be written up earlier than that.

As you can imagine, this results in a little bit of a hole in the narrative. Fortunately, crafting is pretty deep as a system but fairly thin in terms of a core narrative, unless you find "and then I made another set of light sleeves" to be engrossing. So while I didn't get several hours of story, if you're not familiar with what the system offers, there's still plenty of ground to cover.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Craft it one piece at a time

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Craft it one piece at a time originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurecmacolumncraftcraftingdesigndetailfeaturedmechanicsopinionpollpollsryzomthe-saga-of-ryzomwinch-gateWed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: Evolution of a class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/the-soapbox-evolution-of-a-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/the-soapbox-evolution-of-a-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/the-soapbox-evolution-of-a-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

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

In 1974, the first roleplaying game was published under the name Dungeons & Dragons. Being the first of its field, it still had certain rough parts, which later designers would consider fundamental failures. Modern tabletop design looks at things like classes and levels as being relics in many ways -- elements that made sense as a crutch when the design of RPGs was one step removed from tactical wargames.

Compare that to, well, pretty much every MMORPG on the market. While there are certainly games that don't follow the class/level model, they're outnumbered by games that embrace it wholeheartedly. As a result, it's easy to look at the way game development has gone and feel as if the design of online games has not only stagnated but actively slid backward, going from a more advanced system to a far less developed one.

Continue reading The Soapbox: Evolution of a class

MassivelyThe Soapbox: Evolution of a class originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advancementclass-designclass-level-systemclassesculturedesignfeaturedgame-mechanicsmechanicsopinionskill-systemskillssoapboxthe-soapboxTue, 07 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dawn of Fantasy shows off the Online Kingdoms mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/dawn-of-fantasy-shows-off-the-online-kingdoms-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/dawn-of-fantasy-shows-off-the-online-kingdoms-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/dawn-of-fantasy-shows-off-the-online-kingdoms-mode/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

War is not super-pretty even in a fantasy world.
If you've followed stories on Dawn of Fantasy, you know that the game offers an MMORTS mode in addition to its offline modes. What you may not know is exactly how the MMO side of gameplay works out in practice, and that's the sort of thing that's really important to know before you dive into a game. The team at Reverie World Studios has helpfully put together a video diary detailing the Online Kingdoms mode, showing off how players can experience the game in a persistent online world.

The focus of the game, naturally, is on creating and running one's own city; it takes some time to turn your plot of land into a functional city, and in the midst of all that you still have troops to recruit, train, and improve. It's a mixture of quest-based gameplay and more traditional RTS mechanics, but you don't need to take our word for it. Jump past the break to watch the full video and see if it looks like the right mix of both tastes for you.

[Source: Reverie World Studios press release]

Continue reading Dawn of Fantasy shows off the Online Kingdoms mode

MassivelyDawn of Fantasy shows off the Online Kingdoms mode originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SWTOR - The Bounty Hunter
So you're thinking of being a Star Wars: The Old Republic Bounty Hunter, are you? It's a fine choice of profession. Challenging work, definitely. Requires a lot of travel, a quick draw, and a willingness to take on impossible odds. Some Hunters might see themselves as the avenging hand of the law, some just want to get paid, and some of them genuinely care about the Sith cause. But at the end of the day, every Bounty Hunter lives according to the same code: Find the mark and get paid for the job.

Of course, the in-game Bounty Hunter has all the tools needed to make that happen. With a plethora of tricks in his suit of armor, Hunters can do everything -- provide field medical support, keep targets occupied long enough for others to take them down, or even just waste everything with a plethora of missiles. There are a lot of options available to players who go down the route of the Bounty Hunter, and it doesn't hurt that the entire class oozes with style and intrigue from the start.

Continue reading SWTOR: So you want to play a Bounty Hunter

MassivelySWTOR: So you want to play a Bounty Hunter originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-austinbounty-hunterclassclass-mechanicsclassesdpseaea-biowareelectronic-artsfeaturedgame-mechanicsguideguideshealerhealingloremechanicsopinionrolesstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-class-guideswtor-guideswtor-launchswtor-launch-guidetanktankingthe-old-republictorMon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR: So you want to play a Smuggler]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-so-you-want-to-play-a-smuggler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-so-you-want-to-play-a-smuggler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-so-you-want-to-play-a-smuggler/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

SWTOR - The Smuggler
If someone were to ask Star Wars fans which of the characters had the most personality, most likely they would answer Han Solo. In the Expanded Universe, and most notably in the Star Wars video games, smugglers always mirror this dashing rogue of a character archetype established by none other than Harrison Ford. If that's why you're wanting to play the Smuggler class in Star Wars: The Old Republic, then you're in luck because you'll get exactly what you're hoping for.

The SWTOR Smuggler starts out on the world of Ord Mantell, a fringe planet on the brink of civil war. Of course, being a Smuggler, he breaks through the planetary blockade to deliver his shipment of weapons to gangsters on the ground. After that, things get really interesting...

Continue reading SWTOR: So you want to play a Smuggler

MassivelySWTOR: So you want to play a Smuggler originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced-classesBioWareClassescoverEAElectronic-ArtsfeaturedgameplayguideguidesgunslingerLucasArtsmechanicspreviewpreviewssci-fiscoundrelSmugglerStar-WarsStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicSWTORswtor-class-guideswtor-guideswtor-launch-guidethe-old-republicTORMon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Mind tricks are the lazy way of doing things edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/ask-massively-mind-tricks-are-the-lazy-way-of-doing-things-edit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/ask-massively-mind-tricks-are-the-lazy-way-of-doing-things-edit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/ask-massively-mind-tricks-are-the-lazy-way-of-doing-things-edit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As has been demonstrated.
Recently, I've become enamored of the Bavarian Fire Drill. For those who don't want to click on that link (it's work-safe in the sense that it contains no cursing and not work-safe in the sense that you'll be clicking for hours), it's the art of infiltrating a building by carrying a clipboard and acting like you're supposed to be there. Sure, you could just wave your hand and tell people that these aren't the droids they're looking for, but wouldn't you rather have the chutzpah to just walk around like it wasn't a thing?

That leads very naturally to this week's installment of Ask Massively, in which we discuss whether or not leveling mechanics have worn our their collective welcomes in MMOs. As always, if you've got an urgent question for a future week, feel free to leave it in the comments or mail it along to ask@massively.com. Questions may be edited slightly for clarity and/or brevity.

Continue reading Ask Massively: Mind tricks are the lazy way of doing things edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: Mind tricks are the lazy way of doing things edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-massivelycultureexperiencegame-mechanicsgame-systemsgatinglevelinglevelsmechanicsopinionprogressionturkeyThu, 01 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Forbidden screenshot edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/ask-massively-forbidden-screenshot-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/ask-massively-forbidden-screenshot-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/ask-massively-forbidden-screenshot-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

[ALT TEXT REDACTED]
OK, so this past weekend I was in a beta for... well, I can't tell you that. And I had to heavily censor this screenshot from the game. I also can't tell you what sort of character I was playing, where I was standing, or how the game actually played. Oh, and I definitely can't tell you what the interface looked like. But I hope the edited form of this screenshot still brings you some excitement. I was going to leave in a bit of elbow, but I was told that would be considered a spoiler.

This week of Ask Massively will not discuss this forbidden screenshot or the game that I can't talk about. But it will talk about novel mechanics and schadenfreude, albeit in two separate questions. If you've got a question you would like answered in a future installment of the column, leave a comment in the comment field or just mail it along to ask@massively.com. The screenshot will not be discussed.

Continue reading Ask Massively: Forbidden screenshot edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: Forbidden screenshot edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-massivelycolumnculturefeaturedhumorlineage-eternal.lineage-3lineage-iiimechanicsnew-mechanicsopinionworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 17 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar Wednesday tackles the sandbox vs. themepark debate]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/wildstar-wednesday-tackles-the-sandbox-vs-themepark-debate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/wildstar-wednesday-tackles-the-sandbox-vs-themepark-debate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/wildstar-wednesday-tackles-the-sandbox-vs-themepark-debate/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- WildStar
Sandbox or themepark? It's a never-ending debate around these parts of the internet. Carbine Studios knows both sides of the argument all too well, and it shows. Which side of the argument does WildStar fall on, though? If today's WildStar Wednesday dev diary is to be believed, the game straddles the fence between the two.

WildStar's Executive Producer Jeremy Gaffney points out that "developer-directed game play isn't always at odds with the player-directed experience" and notes that sometimes leaning too heavily in either direction can be detrimental to the overall gameplay. As such, the developers are attempting to hit the sweet spot between sandbox and themepark gameplay. If you're interested in finding out how they plan to do that, head on over to the dev diary at WildStar's official site.

MassivelyWildStar Wednesday tackles the sandbox vs. themepark debate originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosdev-blogdev-diaryjeremy-gaffneymechanicssandboxtheme-parkwildstarwildstar-wednesdayThu, 03 Nov 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Paradox's Björn Johannessen hosts Salem Q&A]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/paradoxs-bjorn-johannessen-hosts-salem-qanda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/paradoxs-bjorn-johannessen-hosts-salem-qanda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/paradoxs-bjorn-johannessen-hosts-salem-qanda/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Salem concept art
Paradox Interactive's upcoming MMO Salem has garnered a good bit of attention due to the game's unique frontier-fantasy setting and the fact that it will feature -- gasp! -- permadeath. Of course, as with any mold-breaking game that comes along, there are bound to be a lot of questions about how the game's mechanics will work. Salem's Creative Director, Björn Johannessen, realizes this, and decided to stop by Reddit for an AMA session. For the uninitiated, AMA stands for "Ask Me Anything," and that's exactly what the fine Redditors over at /r/IAmA did.

A wealth of information can be found over at the thread, whether you're interested in the game's influences, the way permadeath will work, the reasoning behind permadeath's inclusion in the game, or more. So if you're interested in Salem to any degree, head on over to Reddit and give the thread a look.

MassivelyParadox's Björn Johannessen hosts Salem Q&A originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AMABjörn-Johannessenbjorn-johannessenmechanicsparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathq-and-aQAquestion-and-answerredditsalemWed, 02 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Flyff expansion grants players a New Beginning]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/new-flyff-expansion-grants-players-a-new-beginning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/new-flyff-expansion-grants-players-a-new-beginning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/new-flyff-expansion-grants-players-a-new-beginning/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Flyff
The dust only recently settled on the Flyff World Championship, and Gala Networks Europe has announced a new update coming to the game. The expansion, known as New Beginning, brings a load of new content for European Flyff players. Many of the game's mechanics -- such as the loot system, legendary quests, and the upgrade system -- have been entirely revamped.

Meanwhile, three new dungeons are available for players looking to test their mettle, and of course new, powerful rewards for said dungeons will be available. Over 100 new scenario and dungeon quests have been added as well, ensuring that players won't lack things to do. The update will be hitting the French and German servers in December.

[Source: Gala Networks Europe press release]

MassivelyNew Flyff expansion grants players a New Beginning originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeondungeonsexpansionf2pfly-for-funflyfffree-to-playgala-netgala-networks-europegpotatogpotato-europemechanicsnew-beginningquestsrevamprevampedMon, 31 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Transformers Universe NYCC panel recap]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/transformers-universe-nycc-panel-recap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/transformers-universe-nycc-panel-recap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/transformers-universe-nycc-panel-recap/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Transformers Universe banner
Autobots, transform and roll -- Oh, hi. No, I wasn't playing with action figures. Anyway, how about that new Transformers Universe game that Jagex is making, huh? Well, there's some new information about it straight from the Q&A panel at New York Comic Con, so let's talk about that and not the action figures I wasn't playing with.

The panel covers a veritable smorgasbord of information, ranging from lore to gameplay to voice acting to technology and security. The team points out that the game will not tie into the Michael Bay movies in any way, as it takes place in the franchise's Prime universe. The game will be browser-based and free-to-play, though the team isn't ready to announce how the game will be monetized. PvE and PvP will both be available -- as if a Transformers game would be complete without Autobot vs. Decepticon action -- but the team says that both tie in to story elements within the game. The devs also note that players' Transformers' vehicle modes will be more than just mounts (that is to say, vehicle mode will tie into combat somehow) but they're not ready to discuss specifics.

The full panel addresses much more in greater detail, so click on through the link below to read the full report.

MassivelyTransformers Universe NYCC panel recap originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedf2pfree-to-playhasbrojagexloremechanicsnew-york-comic-con-2011panelq-aq-and-aq-and-a-panelqatransformerstransformers-universeFri, 21 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Our interview with Final Fantasy XIV's Naoki Yoshida]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/our-interview-with-final-fantasy-xivs-naoki-yoshida/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/our-interview-with-final-fantasy-xivs-naoki-yoshida/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/our-interview-with-final-fantasy-xivs-naoki-yoshida/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Spot all the references! The one on the left may evade you.
There are big changes on the horizon for Final Fantasy XIV, as revealed last Friday. After a year of free play, the game is bringing its extended free trial to a close and setting the stage for further large-scale improvements, culminating in the preview of "version 2.0" that will change the face of the world and the game forever. It promises to be a year filled with new content, time-limited events, and plenty for players to enjoy as the new version approaches.

We were fortunate to have a chance to talk with the man at the head of all the changes, Naoki Yoshida, about the changes already put into place and the ones on the horizon. Past the break are Yoshida's opening remarks regarding the state of the game and the community as well as our questions, which covered everything from class balance to the end of the very extended free trial period.

Continue reading Our interview with Final Fantasy XIV's Naoki Yoshida

MassivelyOur interview with Final Fantasy XIV's Naoki Yoshida originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balanceclassesdevelopmentf14featuredffffxivffxiv-patch-1.19ffxiv-patch-1.20final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfinal-fantasy-xiv-2.0future-patchesgame-mechanicsinterviewinterviewslaunchesmechanicsnaoki-yoshidapatchesrelaunchesrevampssquaresquare-enixupdatesyoshi-pFri, 21 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World unveils Tokyo Flashback at New York Comic Con]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/16/the-secret-world-unveils-tokyo-flashback-at-new-york-comic-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/16/the-secret-world-unveils-tokyo-flashback-at-new-york-comic-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/16/the-secret-world-unveils-tokyo-flashback-at-new-york-comic-con/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
As The Secret World draws ever closer to its April 2012 launch date, more and more information on the game continues to trickle forth. Today's treat comes to you from New York Comic Con, where Funcom has revealed the first eight-ish minutes of gameplay that new players will experience when they jump into the game.

This introductory instance is known as Tokyo Flashback, and not only does it serve to introduce players to the mechanics of combat within The Secret World, but it also sets up the game's conspiracy-laden storyline by introducing players to four key characters of The Secret World's universe. Most players will be familiar with these characters from the title'sprevious trailers, including the one from Gamescom 2011.

The demo of Tokyo Flashback follows a shotgun-toting heroine as she tags along with the NPCs against a horde of infected humans known as the Filth. The demo also imparts some new knowledge of gameplay mechanics. For instance, mobility is very important, and few -- if any -- abilities will root the character in place, allowing players to move freely at all times. It's also revealed that combat (or shotgun combat, at any rate) uses a combo-point-esque mechanic wherein certain attacks build resources on a target, and other "finisher" attacks expend those resources.

For the full trailer, head on past the cut, and check out the write-up of the Comic Con panel over at The Hydra Initiative. And don't forget, players interested in beta-testing The Secret World can sign up for The Secret War on the game's official site.

Continue reading The Secret World unveils Tokyo Flashback at New York Comic Con

MassivelyThe Secret World unveils Tokyo Flashback at New York Comic Con originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demofuncomgame-mechanicsmechanicsnew-york-comic-con-2011nycc-2011starter-areastarter-zonethe-secret-worldtokyo-flashbacktswvideovideosSun, 16 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV releases notes for patch 1.19]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/final-fantasy-xiv-releases-notes-for-patch-1-19/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/final-fantasy-xiv-releases-notes-for-patch-1-19/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/final-fantasy-xiv-releases-notes-for-patch-1-19/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Magma axes - for when chopping things up without burning them at the same time just feels too wussy.
It's going to take another few days before Final Fantasy XIV drops the enormous patch 1.19 onto the live servers, but the patch notes have already been released. And most players will likely agree upon glancing at the extensive list of updates that the patch is well worth the wait. Several portions of the update have already been previewed, ranging from the crafting changes to the battle mechanic updates, but there's also a long list of improvements, additions, and other elements to look forward to.

More details are available regarding the many additions to the Grand Company system, including Company leves, new quests, and the details for obtaining a Company chocobo along with obtaining membership. There's also a listing of new items available, a rundown of the new materia system, and a variety of updates and improvements to stats, mechanics, and abilities. The patch is planned for release on Tuesday, October 4th, a date that the game's players will likely be awaiting with bated breath.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV releases notes for patch 1.19 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>endgameffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgrand-companiesguildleveslevequestslevesmechanicsnew-contentnewspatch-notespatchessquaresquare-enixupdatesFri, 30 Sep 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Duel me!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/storyboard-duel-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/storyboard-duel-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/storyboard-duel-me/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I'm not good at taking screenshots at the best of times, much less when I'm in the middle of combat.
Let it never be said that roleplaying lacks drama if it has no violence. Many times, the confrontations and conflicts in roleplaying happen without a single threat of physical injury or even interaction. Even when threats are involved, frequently that's all there is -- a threat, a wayward mention, a confident statement that if one party undertakes an action, there will be very short and brutal repercussions. Not every scene, or even most scenes, end with characters locked in combat.

That having been said, when you have a couple of characters whose day-to-day lives involve turning vicious critters into fine red mist, sooner or later someone is going to solve other problems with the same toolset.

It's not like violence isn't a valid means of dramatic expression; look at how many of Shakespeare's plays ended with some kind of swordfight if you really need backup. (Several of them, and the ones that don't merely lacked a way to add in a CGI army at the end.) The problem is more that MMOs do not handle this sort of conflict between players very well, if at all.

Continue reading Storyboard: Duel me!

MassivelyStoryboard: Duel me! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columncombatduelsfeaturedgame-mechanicsicin-charactermechanicsoocopinionout-of-characterpvproleplayingrpstoryboardFri, 16 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: ASTA video talks design philosophy and DAoC inspiration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-asta-video-talks-design-philosophy-and-daoc-inspi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-asta-video-talks-design-philosophy-and-daoc-inspi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-asta-video-talks-design-philosophy-and-daoc-inspi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

ASTA - caster
Last month we brought you a brief blurb about ASTA, the new fantasy MMORPG from NHN. The CryEngine3-powered title is making its official debut at this week's Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, and a six-minute video trailer has surfaced that shows off quite a bit of detail about the new title.

The clip features a lot of concept art, behind-the-scenes shots, and talking-head developer interviews as well as an English-dubbed voiceover that's heavy on lore and backstory bits. There's also a lot of commentary regarding ASTA's design philosophy as well as how the developers are striving to avoid Asian MMO cliches to create a title that is original yet familiar.

Finally, the video lets us in on the fact that ASTA is aimed at players "who are not very good at controlling the keyboard and the mouse simultaneously." Despite its apparent simplicity, ASTA will be featuring RvR and PvP mechanics designed specifically to facilitate large-scale conflict rather than small-party skirmishes or duels. Dark Age of Camelot fans may be interested to know that the ASTA video specifically references the older title as inspirational material, and you can find that and more after the cut.

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: ASTA video talks design philosophy and DAoC inspiration

MassivelyGamescom 2011: ASTA video talks design philosophy and DAoC inspiration originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astacryengine-3daocdark-age-of-cameloteastern-fantasyfantasygame-mechanicsgamescomgamescom-2011loremechanicsnhnpvpreal-world-eventsrealm-vs-realmrvrtrailervideoWed, 17 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Wargaming.net answers our World of Warplanes questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/massively-exclusive-wargaming-net-answers-our-world-of-warplane/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/massively-exclusive-wargaming-net-answers-our-world-of-warplane/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/massively-exclusive-wargaming-net-answers-our-world-of-warplane/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

World of Warplanes - key art
Flight sim fans are abuzz over Wargaming.net's recent World of Warplanes announcement, and many are casting an expectant eye toward this year's Gamescom in Cologne, Germany. The reason? Wargaming.net is set to officially reveal the action MMO that features a large selection of aircraft from pre-World War II to the jet age.

Today we're pleased to bring you an exclusive interview with Wargaming.net project manager Alexander Zezulin, so join us after the cut for loads of details on the game, including the debut trailer from Gamescom. Much like its World of Tanks predecessor, World of Warplanes looks to make squad-based vehicular combat more accessible to a wide audience while maintaining a sense of historical accuracy when it comes to said vehicles.

Gallery: World of Warplanes

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Wargaming.net answers our World of Warplanes questions

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Wargaming.net answers our World of Warplanes questions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoalexander-zezulinaviationexclusivef2pfeaturedflight-simfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgamescomgamescom-2011historicalinterviewmassively-exclusivemechanicssquad-based-combatwarwargaming.networld-of-warplanesworld-war-2world-war-iiwowpww2wwiiWed, 17 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose your abilities with ArcheAge's custom class creator]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/14/choose-your-abilities-with-archeages-custom-class-creator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/14/choose-your-abilities-with-archeages-custom-class-creator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/14/choose-your-abilities-with-archeages-custom-class-creator/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - character creator
ArcheAge's skill and class system is still something of a mystery to most folks in the West, due to both the language barrier and the fact that XL Games hasn't outlined all the particulars in detail. The company has updated its English-language website, though, and the ability-combination page gives a bit more insight into what players can expect when building characters in the upcoming sandpark title.

The page features a charted list of abilities that, when combined in groups of three, result in a particular class name being displayed. We're assuming that the resulting class will then get to select specific skills from each ability tree. For example, selecting the artistry, calling, and wild abilities results in a class called a Plainsrunner, and reading between the lines on each ability description indicates a Ranger-like class with a pet, stealth, support buffs, and ranged attacks.

If you're looking for a traditional fantasy class, XL provides premade Warrior, Priest, and Wizard templates just above the chart (as well as something called a Chaser), and you can also view brief videos of 10 of the listed abilities via the link in the left margin.

MassivelyChoose your abilities with ArcheAge's custom class creator originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 14 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesability-combosarche-agearcheagechaserclass-builderclassesfantasygame-mechanicsmechanicsplainsrunnerpriestsandboxsandparkskillswarriorwizardxlxl-gamesSun, 14 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Which MMO has the hardest learning curve?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/the-daily-grind-which-mmo-has-the-hardest-learning-curve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/the-daily-grind-which-mmo-has-the-hardest-learning-curve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/the-daily-grind-which-mmo-has-the-hardest-learning-curve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Chalkboard demonstrating mathematical complexity
MMOs come in all shapes and sizes, and with new titles launching every other day, there's bound to be one out there that caters to just about every skill level imaginable. While many of these games boast similar mechanics, occasionally a dev team will stray from the norm and create a head-scratchingly complex title (or in some cases, a title that is deliberately user-unfriendly).

Games like EVE Online and Second Life are renowned for their learning curve and the amount of research necessary to play at a high level, and we're curious to hear about others you may have experienced.

For this edition of The Daily Grind, share your thoughts on MMO complexity, and whether the term entails mechanics, the UI, gameplay options, or some combination of all three. While you've got your thinking cap on, which MMO has the hardest learning curve?

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: Which MMO has the hardest learning curve? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>complexitydifficultyeveeve-onlinegame-discussiongame-mechanicsgamer-discussionmechanicsmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicssandboxsecond-lifespreadsheets-in-spacetdgthe-daily-grinduiuser-interfaceTue, 09 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What was your favorite experience as a damage dealer?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/the-daily-grind-what-was-your-favorite-experience-as-a-damage-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/the-daily-grind-what-was-your-favorite-experience-as-a-damage-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/the-daily-grind-what-was-your-favorite-experience-as-a-damage-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Out of the three roles of the holy trinity, damage dealers (or DPS, depending on personal preference) are usually seen as the most superfluous. After all, you just have to pound something into the ground, right? But that's neglecting all of the work that damage dealers actually do, and it's neglecting the fact that you notice when your resident monster-pounder isn't up to snuff. Just because there are an awful lot of damage-dealing players in certain games (World of Warcraft springs to mind) doesn't mean there aren't some noteworthy members of the role.

From EverQuest to RIFT, pretty much every game has some way of allowing players to just rack up huge numbers and lay waste to the opposition. So what has your favorite experience been when piling on the damage? Was there a time that you broke numbers you didn't even think you were capable of hitting? A time when you showed your entire party just how good you were at what you did? Or was it a game where you got to combine your love of breaking things with a more party-oriented utility approach?

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 was your favorite experience as a damage dealer? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesdamage-dealerdpsgame-mechanicsgroup-playholy-trinitymechanicsopinionpartyparty-contentrolestdgthe-daily-grindMon, 01 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rusty Hearts dev diary unveils new PvP details]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/rusty-hearts-dev-diary-unveils-new-pvp-details/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/rusty-hearts-dev-diary-unveils-new-pvp-details/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/rusty-hearts-dev-diary-unveils-new-pvp-details/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The latest Rusty Hearts dev diary from Perfect World Entertainment is a short one, but it's still packed to the brim with new details on the game's PvP system. So if you're the type of player who would rather smash your comrades' faces into the dirt than -- gag -- cooperate, listen up.

Players will be able to create private rooms for their friends to join and take part in PvP combat, which comes in a variety of delicious flavors. Of course, you've got your vanilla team deathmatch for those of you who like to keep it traditional, or the elimination deathmatch in which two teams battle until only one is left standing. There's also the VIP gametype, which designates one player of each team the VIP, while the other players are tasked with protecting their own VIP and assassinating the enemy's.

All of these games' statistics will be logged for bragging rights, and players will also be rewarded with PvP points that can be spent on fancy new items. Players will also be ranked in a ladder system that will allow them to see where they stand compared to the rest of the world. With all this and certainly more to come, it looks like Rusty Hearts is shaping up to be a competitive player's dream. Jump on past the cut for the full dev diary.

Continue reading Rusty Hearts dev diary unveils new PvP details

MassivelyRusty Hearts dev diary unveils new PvP details originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beat-em-upbrawlerdev-diariesdev-diaryf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsmechanicsperfect-world-entertainmentpvppvp-systempwerusty-heartstrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 22 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV launches patch 1.18]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-18/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-18/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-18/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Final Fantasy XIV players have been waiting for patch 1.18 to drop for quite some time, but the wait is finally over. Players can finally access the variety of updates and improvements that the newest patch has promised, including a large overhaul to the combat system that ushers in auto-attack functionality and the addition of the new Grand Companies. While the former is just the first step toward making a more thorough overhaul of the game's combat engine, the latter will give players rank 22 and up new missions to participate in while attempting to safeguard Eorzea.

Other improvements include a streamlining of the enmity system complete with in-game warnings, improvements to repair functionality, and a general streamlining and adjustment of the guildleve system. All told, it's quite a large change to the existing elements of the game, something that Final Fantasy XIV players will no doubt want to devote a fair chunk of time to exploring.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV launches patch 1.18 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adjustmentsattackauto-attackbalance-adjustmentscombat-systemsffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.18final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgrand-companiesguildleveslevequestsmechanicsnew-systemsnewspatchessquaresquare-enixupdatesThu, 21 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR writer talks economy, endgame, and polish]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/swtor-writer-talks-economy-endgame-and-polish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/swtor-writer-talks-economy-endgame-and-polish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/swtor-writer-talks-economy-endgame-and-polish/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

We told you yesterday about your chance to get your hands dirty with a Star Wars The Old Republic flashpoint demo later this month. Today we've heard tell of a new video interview with TOR lead writer Daniel Erickson that's worth a viewing.

Game Reactor has just released a 15-minute sit-down with Erickson from this year's E3, and the discussion ranges from story, to endgame, to the possibility of an open beta in the near future.

"It's our launch year," Erickson says, "so I finally get to quit saying -- for the most part -- I can't talk about that." Head to Game Reactor to see what Erickson can talk about, including blurbs on the player economy, raiding, and polish, and don't forget to let us know what you think in the comments.

[Thanks to Petter for the tip!]

MassivelySWTOR writer talks economy, endgame, and polish originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredaniel-ericksone3-2011ea-biowareendgameinterviewmechanicsmmo-industrynew-titlessci-fistar-wars-the-old-republicstoryswtorthe-old-republictorWed, 13 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Man in the mirror]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/hyperspace-beacon-man-in-the-mirror/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/hyperspace-beacon-man-in-the-mirror/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/hyperspace-beacon-man-in-the-mirror/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

On Friday, our friends on the BioWare community team gave us a second progression video for the Bounty Hunter in Star Wars: The Old Republic. As with anything on the internet, the video wasn't above scrutiny and complaint by followers. The complaints ranged from "we already have a Bounty Hunter progression video" to "why don't we have a Jedi Consular video yet?" But that doesn't hit on the real issue: There were no fiery explosions for the Bounty Hunter to walk away from in slow motion! He just can't be cool unless he turns his back on the destruction like he just doesn't frelling care.

Despite the lack of carnage in the class progression video, we did glean insight into many of the class powers, some of which mirror its Republic counterpart: the Trooper. I know for marketing reasons and to keep from confusing the potential player, it's not a good idea to use the word "mirror" when describing The Old Republic classes. But it's hard to deny that the Imperial Bounty Hunter and the Republic Trooper are very much mirrored insofar as combat roles and abilities. After the break, I will explain to you what I see that is the same and what is different between the two classes. Then, in the end, I will let you decide whether the classes are truly mirrored or not.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Man in the mirror

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Man in the mirror originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebounty-hunterclassescomparisonDamage-Per-SecondDPSEAeletronic-artsempirefeaturedgameplayhealerhyperspace-beaconLucasArtsmechanicsmirroredmirrored-classesprogression-videorepublicStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicStephen-Reidswtortankthe-old-republictortrinitytrooperTue, 05 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: This might just work!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/04/flameseeker-chronicles-this-might-just-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/04/flameseeker-chronicles-this-might-just-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/04/flameseeker-chronicles-this-might-just-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

OK, it's confession time. I hated the idea of 5-man dungeons in Guild Wars 2. Well, "hated" may have been too strong a word, but since I'm an MMO gamer whose fun largely centers around playing with my friends and guildmates, the thought of being forced to only play with four of them was sort of a turn-off.

My mind has been changed, so let's cut right to the chase. Follow along after the jump and I'll tell you why!

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: This might just work!

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: This might just work! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetclass-rolesclassescombatdungeonsfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-wars-2gw2mechanicsncsoftrolesMon, 04 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Find the Force]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/hyperspace-beacon-find-the-force/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/hyperspace-beacon-find-the-force/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/hyperspace-beacon-find-the-force/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

With E3 last week, I really considered devoting this article to opinions regarding the latest news for Star Wars: The Old Republic. Then I realized that Massively already published a ton of SWTOR related articles about E3 this week. During the show itself, Dan gave his impressions of playing the game, and all four of our attendees delivered impressions yesterday. It's good to read impressions from people who love MMOs but aren't necessarily die-hard fans of BioWare or Star Wars -- you'll get a different perspective than you would reading this column.

So instead, this week I'll examine the announced abilities for the Jedi Consular class. The majority of this information stems from the advanced class page, but there is a little bit that comes from MMORPG's interview with Georg Zoeller. Hop past the break as we explore the abilities of this powerful Force-user.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Find the Force

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Find the Force originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced-classesBioWareclassclassesdaniel-ericksonEAElectronic-Artsfeaturedforcegeorg-zoellerhealerhyperspace-beaconJedijedi-consularJedi-SageJedi-ShadowLucasArtsmechanicsrogueStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstealthswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 14 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest Engineering Report previews Season 4 of Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/newest-engineering-report-previews-season-4-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/newest-engineering-report-previews-season-4-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/newest-engineering-report-previews-season-4-of-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's always exciting to be on the cusp of a new season, especially if you're a Star Trek Online fan. The latest Engineering Report has just gone live, bringing with it a promise that Season 4 will be up on the test server very soon, with a projected release in early July. That means a full revamp to ground combat, changing the game from the previous rather dull experience into a much more action-oriented affair. But the mechanics of fighting aren't the only thing that's changing -- enemies on the ground are also being overhauled, with HP scaling in a more tuned fashion.

There are also changes to Qo'nos for Klingon players, making the world feel more vibrant for starting characters. The update also sports the Duty Officer Roster for all captains to experience and a variety of other quality of life improvements. And as always, the report looks beyond the immediate future and into the distant future, taking aim at everything from changes to the outfit system to improved system maps for important regions of space. Star Trek Online players should take a look at the full report and check back in later this week as Captain's Log examines the changes in depth.

MassivelyNewest Engineering Report previews Season 4 of Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 May 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricombatcrypticcryptic-studiosengineering-reportgame-mechanicsground-combatmechanicspatchesseason-4star-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosto-season-4upcoming-patchesupdatesMon, 16 May 2011 21:00:00 EST