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[MechWarrior Online announces closed beta and founder's program]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/mechwarrior-online-announces-closed-beta-and-founders-program/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/mechwarrior-online-announces-closed-beta-and-founders-program/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/mechwarrior-online-announces-closed-beta-and-founders-program/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MWO
Turn over the engine and light up the jet thrusters because MechWarrior Online is stomping into closed beta this week. Anyone who registers on the official site has a chance to check out the hot 'mech action before the rest of the crowd. While the beta is currently limited to North America, there is no IP blocking, so anyone can jump in as long as he or she doesn't mind a little lag.

Perhaps of more interest is Piranha Games' announcement of its founder's program, code-named Operation Inception. Yes, we guess the devs saw the movie too. While MWO will be free-to-play with optional microtransactions, Operation Inception lets players invest their money up-front to get special goodies and an early start to the game.

Players can buy into the founder's program starting June 19th. It will come in two tiers: a $30 veteran package and a $60 elite package. The veteran package includes $40 of in-game currency, a month of premium account status, a founder's tag, and early access. The elite package includes $80 of in-game currency, two months of premium status, the founder's tag, early access, and an exclusive BattleMech.

Early access for MechWarrior Online begins July 17th.

MassivelyMechWarrior Online announces closed beta and founder's program originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclosed-betaearly-accessf2pfounders-battlemechfounders-programfree-to-playinceptionip-blockinglaunchmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwooperation-inceptionpiranhapiranha-gamesregion-freesci-fiTue, 22 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online dev Q&A covers beta, grouping, and combat damage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/mechwarrior-online-dev-qanda-covers-beta-grouping-and-combat-dam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/mechwarrior-online-dev-qanda-covers-beta-grouping-and-combat-dam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/mechwarrior-online-dev-qanda-covers-beta-grouping-and-combat-dam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MWO
MechWarrior Online's devs aren't quite ready to disclose specifics on the game's minimum specs or beta process, but news for both is coming "soon." These vague assurances were the anomaly in a recent community Q&A, during which Piranha Games President Russ Bullock and Creative Director Bryan Ekman spilled on all of the minutia that fans were dying to know.

The duo said that they're "working very hard" to get MWO servers into every major region and that information about beta will be coming next week. They did confirm that there will be an open beta at some juncture, however.

Other details disclosed included the fact that players can form groups of up to 12 'Mechs, that legs cannot be blown off (but can be immobilized), and that the launch matchmaking system will be very basic and won't take into account player skill or records.

MassivelyMechWarrior Online dev Q&A covers beta, grouping, and combat damage originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaBryan-Ekmanclosed-betacommunity-q-and-af2pfree-to-playmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemin-specsminimum-specsmwoopen-betapiranhapiranha-gamespvpq-and-aRuss-Bullocksci-fisoonsoon-tmspecstweetchattwitterThu, 17 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online unleashes a torrent of new screenshots, plus new teaser trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/mechwarrior-online-unleashes-a-torrent-of-new-screenshots-plus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/mechwarrior-online-unleashes-a-torrent-of-new-screenshots-plus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/mechwarrior-online-unleashes-a-torrent-of-new-screenshots-plus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- MechWarrior Online
Piranha Games has spent the last few weeks inundating us with information on the various gameplay mechanics and customization options that players can expect from its upcoming free-to-play 'bot-battling title, MechWarrior Online, but today the studio has unleashed a deluge of screenshots and a new video that shows what the game's really about: big robots and even bigger explosions. Also, lots of lasers. Pew pew!

The screenshots showcase a variety of 'Mechs -- including the first in-game screens of the Dragon -- going at it with everything from lasers to long-range missiles and everything in between, plus there are quite a few showing off the game's MechLab customization features. The video, meanwhile, gives players yet another look at the game's combat, which, judging by the number of lasers flying around, could double as a (potentially fatal) light show. But enough words; go on and click through the gallery below and feast your eyes on all the giant robot goodness.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

Gallery: MechWarrior Online screenshots

Continue reading MechWarrior Online unleashes a torrent of new screenshots, plus new teaser trailer

MassivelyMechWarrior Online unleashes a torrent of new screenshots, plus new teaser trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamessci-fiscreenshotscreenshotstrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 11 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online unloads six preview videos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/mechwarrior-online-unloads-six-preview-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/mechwarrior-online-unloads-six-preview-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/mechwarrior-online-unloads-six-preview-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Oh, Medium Lasers, how I still love you.
With all the talk about how MechWarrior Online will play, potential players have no doubt been itching to see the game in full swing. We only recently got a peek at the first in-game screenshots, but today a veritable cascade of new information is available. Not one, not two, but six preview videos have been released, showing off the general gameplay, all four 'Mech weight classes, and the interface for customizing your 'Mech before you march it into battle.

Aside from a variety of gameplay footage (clearly unpolished but still encouraging), the videos give some insight into the game's design goals. Rather than following the route of the classic MechWarrior games that placed the heaviest 'Mechs at the top of the food chain, MechWarrior Online wants all machines to have a place on the battlefield depending on player style and battlefield objectives. But why read about it when you can watch it in action just past the break? After all, that way you're learning the same information and watching giant robots shoot at each other.

Continue reading MechWarrior Online unloads six preview videos

MassivelyMechWarrior Online unloads six preview videos originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamespreviewsci-fitrailertrailersvideovideo-previewvideosThu, 10 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online reveals the first in-game screens of the Catapult]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/mechwarrior-online-reveals-the-first-in-game-screens-of-the-cata/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/mechwarrior-online-reveals-the-first-in-game-screens-of-the-cata/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/mechwarrior-online-reveals-the-first-in-game-screens-of-the-cata/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

And then you roll a critical hit to the head. Boom.
Battles in MechWarrior Online are not about subtlety; they are about unloading huge amounts of firepower on enemy machines as fast as possible. That is the sole purpose of the Catapult, a 'Mech loaded with long-range missiles to pummel enemy units into submission. But the Catapult has another distinction -- it's the first 'Mech to receive screenshot treatment, showing the heavy support 'Mech off in all its jumping, missile-heavy goodness.

Fans familiar with previous games in the MechWarrior franchise or the BattleTech board game will know the Catapult quite well. It's just barely into the heavier weight class. sporting jump jets and medium lasers to help it move out of dangerous engagements or disable lighter units. And, of course, there are its twin missile banks, effective as a direct-fire weapon or for use as artillery with an assisting spotter unit. The game's screenshots also show off the classic variant replacing the missile banks with PPCs, high-powered energy cannons designed to fry targets at extreme range.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

Gallery: MechWarrior Online screenshots

MassivelyMechWarrior Online reveals the first in-game screens of the Catapult originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battletechf2pfirst-screenshotsfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwonewspiranhapiranha-gamespreviewsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsThu, 03 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online devs field 'Mech customization queries]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mechwarrior-online-devs-field-mech-customization-queries/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mechwarrior-online-devs-field-mech-customization-queries/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/mechwarrior-online-devs-field-mech-customization-queries/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MechWarrior Online
If you had four developers of a hot upcoming title trapped in a room and could ask them any question you wanted, what would it be? (Please note that if you actually are in this situation, Massively advises releasing the hostages and surrendering to the police.) While there might not be a filthy underground lair involved in MechWarrior Online's latest community Q&A session, the principle is the same.

A good bulk of the 27 questions thrown to the four members of Piranha Games' team revolve around 'Mech customization. MechWarrior Online will be pretty flexible in this regard, although not as flexible as pen-and-paper fans might hope. For example, custom decals won't be in the game at launch, as their inclusion would require too much monitoring. Still, if you're trying to get a sense of the scope of MWO's 'Mech customization, this Q&A might impress you.

Just because the community could ask doesn't mean that Piranha had to answer, however. When queried about the in-game economy, Creative Director Bryan Ekman put the answer off until later: "We're not ready to go into details on the economics of the game. We plan to cover this in greater detail in the next couple of months via our dev blogs."

MassivelyMechWarrior Online devs field 'Mech customization queries originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>community-q-and-acustomizationdev-q-and-aeconomyf2pfree-to-playin-game-economymechmech-customizationmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamesq-and-asci-fiWed, 18 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Step inside MechWarrior Online's MechLab and choose your weapon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/step-inside-mechwarrior-onlines-mechlab-and-choose-your-weapon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/step-inside-mechwarrior-onlines-mechlab-and-choose-your-weapon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/step-inside-mechwarrior-onlines-mechlab-and-choose-your-weapon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

McMech, the Scottish BattleMech
Over the past weeks, we've been seeing a steady drip of information about MechWarrior Online's various BattleMechs and the customization options available to players to make each 'Mech unique. Today, Piranha Games is giving players an inside look at the MechLab, which is the in-game interface players will use to modify their machines of death and destruction.

The MechLab uses what the studio calls a hardpoint system, which essentially means that weapons can only be swapped out for other weapons of the same type. For instance, energy weapons can be swapped only for other energy weapons, while ballistic weapons can be changed out only for other ballistic weapons. 'Mech customization also relies on a weight system meaning that each 'Mech has a maximum weight that it cannot exceed, so players will have to pick and choose between numerous lightweight enhancements or fewer, heavier ones (or some combination thereof). The full system, as fans of the series undoubtedly expect, is quite robust, so hop in the cockpit and jump-jet your way over to the official dev blog for the full details.

MassivelyStep inside MechWarrior Online's MechLab and choose your weapon originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>customizationf2pfree-to-playmechmechlabmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemodificationmwopiranhapiranha-gamessci-fiWed, 04 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Center your sights with MechWarrior Online's latest dev Q&A]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/center-your-sights-with-mechwarrior-onlines-latest-dev-qanda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/center-your-sights-with-mechwarrior-onlines-latest-dev-qanda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/center-your-sights-with-mechwarrior-onlines-latest-dev-qanda/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Concept Art -- MechWarrior Online
MechWarriors, start your engines. It's time for another Q&A session with the fine folks at Piranha Games, the studio behind the upcoming free-to-play MechWarrior Online. Combat is the name of the game today, and developers Matt Craig, Paul Inouye, David Bradley, and Garth Eriam have taken some time to answer players' burning questions.

The Q&A covers topics ranging from the game's reticle convergence mechanics to how exactly one goes about disabling an enemy 'Mech, and just as there's more than one way to skin a cat, there are myriad methods with which to bring destruction to your foes. Players will be able to bring down an enemy BattleMech by destroying the head, disabling the torso, or literally bringing the 'Mech to its knees by crippling its legs. But of course, that's much easier said than done. The game's reticle convergence system will require players to aim their shots well and time them even better if they plan to survive for long.

The full details, for those interested in the mechanics of combat, are available for perusal at the official MWO site.

MassivelyCenter your sights with MechWarrior Online's latest dev Q&A originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatcommunity-q-and-acommunity-qaf2pfree-to-playmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamesq-and-aqareticle-convergencesci-fiwarfareWed, 14 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scope out MechWarrior Online's high-octane action]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/scope-out-mechwarrior-onlines-high-octane-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/scope-out-mechwarrior-onlines-high-octane-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/scope-out-mechwarrior-onlines-high-octane-action/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MechWarrior Online
It's one thing to hear about how exciting an upcoming game might be, but it's something else to see it for yourself. While we were certainly impressed with what we heard and saw about MechWarrior Online from this past week's GDC, we weren't able to show you how the game actually plays. Until now, that is!

Piranha Games just released its first public video showing in-game footage of MechWarrior Online. In it, three 'Mechs -- an Atlas, a Jenner, and a Hunchback -- are duking it out in one of the game's wilderness arenas. While the video is short, there's plenty of sweet details to pick out, such as a barrage of missiles arcing toward a foe, battle-damage on enemy 'Mechs, and serious-looking warnings that pop up on the player's HUD.

MechWarrior Online is slated for a summer 2012 release. You can check out the gameplay video after the jump!

Continue reading Scope out MechWarrior Online's high-octane action

MassivelyScope out MechWarrior Online's high-octane action originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgameplay-footagein-game-footagemechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemoviemwopiranhapiranha-gamessci-fitrailervideoTue, 13 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking
Massively Speaking Episode 190 brings us another installment of the wild and wacky adventures of Massively's GDC crew. Today the entire ensemble has assembled, with Shawn, Jef, Karen, and MJ hogging the mike and sharing their impressions and experiences from the convention. Also, Karen rules from the Iron Throne, so do not mess with her or she'll send you to the Wall.

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

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



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-thronesbattleshipbattleshipsbigpointbiowarebrantbrianna-royceccpccp-gamesconsoledark-legendsdustdust-514eveeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgame-of-throneshistoricalhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemmofpsmwoopinionpiranhapiranha-gamesplaneplanesplaystationplaystation-3podcastpodcastingpodcastsps3pvpsci-fishooterspacetime-studiostanktanksthe9triontrion-worldswarwargaming-netwargaming.netwarplanewarplaneswobworld-of-battleshipsworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplaneswotwowpThu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 190Massively.com Staff00:28:20podcasts<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Locking on to MechWarrior Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-locking-on-to-mechwarrior-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-locking-on-to-mechwarrior-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-locking-on-to-mechwarrior-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MechWarrior Online
The notion of strapping oneself into a massive battle robot chassis and duking it out with other 'Mechs appeals to the inner child in all of us (or it should), so it's hard not to feel a tingle of excitement when the makers of MechWarrior Online promise that we'll soon be able to do just that. We caught up with the Piranha Games crew at GDC to become one of the very first non-studio witnesses of MWO's in-game footage and to hear why this is a title that should be on all of our radars.

The team is filled with huge fans of the MechWarrior and BattleTech franchises, so the devs were eager to construct a proper MechWarrior title when Piranha got ahold of the license this year. The studio seized upon the free-to-play model early on as the best way to draw in as many potential 'Mech pilots as possible. It also snagged the CryEngine 3 to provide the best possible graphical fidelity for its product. Unfortunately, it's going to be hard to categorize MWO as "massively," as its non-persistent arena maps will host up to only 24 players in 12v12 fights.

Setting-wise, MechWarrior Online begins in 3049, but that date will keep tempo with the real-world calendar (so tomorrow it'll be March 9th, 3049, and so on). As events happen in the story according to the game's canon, the game will change to reflect that in real-time.

Read on to hear what the devs had to say about two of the game's four pillars: mech warfare and role warfare.

Continue reading GDC 2012: Locking on to MechWarrior Online

MassivelyGDC 2012: Locking on to MechWarrior Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12v12community-warfareconconferenceconventionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012mechmech-warfaremechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemobamwopiranhapiranha-gamesrole-warfaresci-fiworld-of-tanksThu, 08 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online kicks off Mech Warfare Month]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/mechwarrior-online-kicks-off-mech-warfare-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/mechwarrior-online-kicks-off-mech-warfare-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/mechwarrior-online-kicks-off-mech-warfare-month/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MechWarrior Online
Driving a multi-ton battle 'Mech isn't like picking your friend up at the 7-11 in your dad's Prius; it's a massive, complicated war machine that has to be understood before it can be wielded against foes. So if you think that piloting one in MechWarrior Online will be as simple as hitting the WASD keys and the occasional 1 or 2, think again.

This is why Piranha Games has launched Mech Warfare Month on the official MWO site, giving us a full run-down of how movement and combat is handled in the game. Concepts such as 'Mech "torso twists," jump jets, environmental obstacles, and heat management have to be taken into account from the onset. To bring down the hammer on enemy 'Mechs, players will use a balance of energy, projectile, and ballistic weapons -- and they have to keep track of ammo while doing so.

Piranha wraps up the post with a lengthy list of keyboard and mouse commands that will be necessary to learn for safe 'Mech operation. While the full list of controls and HUD details may send some running for their nearest touch-screen device, this level of detail is exactly what attracts such a devoted fanbase to the franchise.

We're speaking with Piranha Games at GDC this week, so stay tuned for an in-depth interview as to how this game is shaping up!

[Thanks to Nimsy for the tip!]

MassivelyMechWarrior Online kicks off Mech Warfare Month originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatcombat-systemscontrolsf2pfree-to-playheat-managementhudjump-jetsmechmech-warfare-monthmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamessci-fitorso-twistwarfareWed, 07 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online unveils the classic CN9-A Centurion BattleMech]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/mechwarrior-online-unveils-the-classic-cn9-a-centurion-battlemec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/mechwarrior-online-unveils-the-classic-cn9-a-centurion-battlemec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/mechwarrior-online-unveils-the-classic-cn9-a-centurion-battlemec/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

CN9-A Centurion
Giant robot fans everywhere are getting pumped up for Piranha Games' upcoming MechWarrior Online, but what's a MechWarrior game without lots of badass BattleMechs? Boring, that's what. Fortunately, however, there's plenty of giant robot lovin' to go around in MWO, and today the team is revealing the newest (though we use that term loosely) addition to the roster: the Centurion.

The CN9-A Centurion is a long-time favorite of anyone who has hung around in the MechWarrior universe for long enough, and it's easy enough to see why. Armed with weapons suitable for any range, the Centurion is a force to be reckoned with no matter where he is on the battlefield. Whether it's launching LRM-10 missiles across the battlefield or wrecking someone's day personally with its AC/10 autocannon and medium lasers, you can bet the Centurion will be making a triumphant return in MechWarrior Online.

For the full details on the newly revealed BattleMech, just jump on over to the game's official site.

[Thanks to nimzy for the tip!]

MassivelyMechWarrior Online unveils the classic CN9-A Centurion BattleMech originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlemechbattlemechscenturionCN9-A-Centurionf2pfree-to-playmechmech-revealmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamesrevealrobotrobotsWed, 25 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Previewing the nuts and bolts of MechWarrior Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/previewing-the-nuts-and-bolts-of-mechwarrior-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/previewing-the-nuts-and-bolts-of-mechwarrior-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/previewing-the-nuts-and-bolts-of-mechwarrior-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

MechWarrior screenshot
MechWarrior Online might just be one of the most exciting titles to be announced in recent times. If you have ever played any version of the game or have ever enjoyed stomping around in the Battletech universe, you'll be happy to know that, yes, the new online game is actually being made. While the IP will soon turn 30 years old, it's still very popular. Some of us remember painting metal figures to place into our tiny lances, while others have fond memories of jumping and shooting, jumping and shooting, jumping and shooting.

Massively joined the press roundtable for the game this week and snagged some juicy information. We talked with Piranha Games' President Russ Bullock and Creative Director Bryan Ekman about how the development process is going, how their philosophies influence design, and how the game will actually play.

Click past the cut, and watch out for heat!

Continue reading Previewing the nuts and bolts of MechWarrior Online

MassivelyPreviewing the nuts and bolts of MechWarrior Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battletechbeau-hindmanboardgamebryan-ekmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpinterviewinterviewsmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-onlineminiaturespiranha-gamesruss-brownWed, 21 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perpetuum removing character attributes, tweaking character creation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/perpetuum-removing-character-attributes-tweaking-character-crea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/perpetuum-removing-character-attributes-tweaking-character-crea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/perpetuum-removing-character-attributes-tweaking-character-crea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Perpetuum - mech blasting
The end of the month is drawing nigh, and that means it's time to check in with the devs at Avatar Creations for the skinny on Perpetuum. The sci-fi sandbox is trucking right along, according to the latest dev blog, which outlines a few changes forthcoming in the near future.

First and foremost is the removal of character attributes. If you're not familiar with the game, the change isn't as dire as it initially sounds, as attributes basically determine the cost of extension points, which in turn leads to skill specialization. Avatar says that the only problem with the current system is that it forces players to make critical choices early in their Perpetuum careers (when most don't have a clue how they want to build their character or how the game works).

The attribute changes will also necessitate a character creation revamp, and you can read all about the tweaks on the official website.

MassivelyPerpetuum removing character attributes, tweaking character creation originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attributesavataravatar-creationscharacter-changesdev-blogdev-diarydev-updatemech-mmomechspatchesperpetuumsandboxsci-fiscifiupdateWed, 28 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Community Detective Issue #23: Perpetuum]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/community-detective-issue-23-perpetuum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/community-detective-issue-23-perpetuum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/community-detective-issue-23-perpetuum/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welcome to the Perpetuum edition of Community Detective. Avatar Creations' mech-based sandbox MMORPG launched back in November, and despite being relatively new to the market, it has already had time to release a free expansion and a 15-day free trial as well as build itself a small but dedicated fanbase.

I spent the last couple of weeks tooling around the game's tutorials and early mission content as well as observing Perpetuum's community and customer service offerings. Due to the size of the community and the bare-bones approach to customer service, this week's issue of Community Detective departs from my standard data-centric format in favor of some general impressions. Join me after the cut to see what's happening on the planet Nia.

Continue reading Community Detective Issue #23: Perpetuum

MassivelyCommunity Detective Issue #23: Perpetuum originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 May 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-creationscommunity-detectivecommunity-pollingcommunity-questionscustomer-servicefeaturedmechsniaopinionperpetuumsandboxsci-fiTue, 31 May 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perpetuum doubling world size, offering free trials]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/perpetuum-doubling-world-size-offering-free-trials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/perpetuum-doubling-world-size-offering-free-trials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/perpetuum-doubling-world-size-offering-free-trials/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What's new in the world of Perpetuum? Well, free trials for starters, as Avatar Creations has officially introduced a 15-day grace period for each newly created account. Trial players will not be able to trade items or currency, and they also will be prevented from joining corporations in order to safeguard the game's economy from exploits.

Perhaps the biggest update in the world of Perpetuum is, well, the world -- or rather, the world as it will look in an upcoming patch. Avatar's official dev blog details plans to effectively double the size of the planet known as Nia in a patch "planned for about a month from now." The new territory will include six new islands (three of them safe zones and three free-for-all areas). All of the zones will boast infrastructure, NPCs, and materials, and Avatar plans on introducing missions shortly after going live with the update.

MassivelyPerpetuum doubling world size, offering free trials originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-creationsfree-trialsgame-world-sizemechmechsperpetuumperpetuum-onlinesand-boxsandboxsci-fitrialtrial-accountworld-sizeMon, 21 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist goes PlanetSide: The fansite]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/the-game-archaeologist-goes-planetside-the-fansite/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/the-game-archaeologist-goes-planetside-the-fansite/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/the-game-archaeologist-goes-planetside-the-fansite/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Famous PvPer George S. Patton once said that "The object of war is not to die for your country but to make the other n00b die for his." We here at Game Archaeologist University applaud that line of thinking, especially when we want to be entertained. This perhaps explains the long-lasting appeal of PlanetSide. Another working theory is that Sony Online Entertainment is into witchcraft.

For an MMO I never gave much of a thought past "Huh, that's still around?" PlanetSide's surprised me with such a loyal -- and literate -- playerbase. Ever since starting this column, I've never received so many emails about an MMO. Memories and fearless love run strong in this community, and that intrigues me. What have I overlooked? Has PlanetSide proven that our ancestors' DNA contained the hybrid FPS/MMO gene, a gene that was passed down to a select group of winners?

In my quest to unwrap the formula of cult success, I first paid a visit to the folks over at PlanetSide Universe, one of the most established PlanetSide fan sites on the web. Hit the jump to have your mind blown -- and your internal organs donated against your will by a rocket launcher!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist goes PlanetSide: The fansite

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist goes PlanetSide: The fansite originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betachainguncore-combatdragon-wolvesfeaturedgalaxy-transportgeorge-pattonhammainterviewlegacymechmechsmerit-commendationmmofpsplanetsideplanetside-nextplanetside-universepssoesony-online-entertainmentthe-game-archaeologisttribeswitchcraftTue, 15 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perpetuum devs talk design inspiration, post-launch plans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/perpetuum-devs-talk-design-inspiration-post-launch-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/perpetuum-devs-talk-design-inspiration-post-launch-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/perpetuum-devs-talk-design-inspiration-post-launch-plans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You've probably heard of Perpetuum Online, the new mech-based title from indie developer Avatar Creations. What you may not know is that the sprawling sandbox is the result of a tiny 10-man development team. In a new interview with the devs over at Game Reactor, we also learned that even though the UI and certain gameplay elements resemble EVE Online, most of the Avatar team never played CCP's famous MMORPG and instead looked to the real world for design inspiration.

"When designing the crafting system we looked at how humanity would react when faced with new and alien technology and built crafting around those core ideas. The idea of a complex sandbox single-server world might be very similar, but most of the Perpetuum team never played EVE," Avatar says.

The interview also drops a few interesting nuggets including player beta reactions, post-launch development plans, and a peek at the dev team's stance on equalizing veterans and newbs. "Newcomers in any well designed game won't have a chance against seasoned veterans," Avatar states. Check out the full interview at Game Reactor and don't forget that Perpetuum launches November 25th.

MassivelyPerpetuum devs talk design inspiration, post-launch plans originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Avataravatar-creationsbetaccpCCP-Gameseveeve-onlinelaunchlaunch-datelaunchesmechmechsperpetuumperpetuum-onlinesci-fiMon, 15 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[All systems go: Perpetuum launching November 25th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/all-systems-go-perpetuum-launching-november-25th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/all-systems-go-perpetuum-launching-november-25th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/all-systems-go-perpetuum-launching-november-25th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's been five years in the making -- not to mention 18 months of beta testing -- but on November 25th, it all comes to a head. Perpetuum Online, which has been described as "EVE Online meets mechs," finally has a launch date.

Avatar Creations' project is a persistent world at war, in which players can build, pilot and destroy robots across the landscape. According to Perpetuum's manifesto, the dev team strived to make an MMO that focuses on a social experience that utilizes crafting, economy and territory control as tools to connect large amounts of players.

The download will be free, and Avatar Creations has announced that the pricing plan will be €8.95/$9.95 depending on the region. Interested players would do well to take the company up on the offer of early access, which costs the same but gives an additional week of play (early access players can start on November 18th) and four weeks of "extra extension points."

Hit the jump to see Perpetuum's launch trailer and figure out if this is the virtual world for you!

Continue reading All systems go: Perpetuum launching November 25th

MassivelyAll systems go: Perpetuum launching November 25th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-creationsearly-accesseve-onlineextension-pointsjohnny-five-is-alivelaunchlaunch-datelaunch-trailermanifestomechsperpetuumperpetuum-onlinepricing-planrobot-joxrobotsvideoTue, 09 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Command line execute: Perpetuum powers up open beta and early access]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/command-line-execute-perpetuum-powers-up-open-beta-and-early-ac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/command-line-execute-perpetuum-powers-up-open-beta-and-early-ac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/command-line-execute-perpetuum-powers-up-open-beta-and-early-ac/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Do you like robots? We know, look whom we're talking to -- of course you do. Who doesn't? Well, let us ask you this: Do you like piloting hulking robots with enough ordinance to take out a smallish city? Again, that's a mostly rhetorical question.

Ergo, it might be of interest to you to know that Perpetuum, the giant city-killing robot simulation MMO, has not only booted up its open beta, but is looking ahead to an early access program as well. Avatar Creations is coming off fresh from a year and a half of closed beta testing and has its sights set on a launch in the not-too-distant future. Interested parties may get their hands on the open beta starting October 18th, and if the game tickles your fancy, you can pay €9.95 to enter the Early Access program, which includes the first month of launch and an extra week prior to Perpetuum's release.

Perpetuum boasts a single persistent world where one robot can, in fact, make a difference. We've been intrigued by some of the interesting ideas this dev team has whipped up, so it will be great to get our hands on the beta at last. You can read the full press announcement over on the official site.

MassivelyCommand line execute: Perpetuum powers up open beta and early access originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-creationsbreakingclosed-betaearly-accessgiant-city-killing-robotsgiant-robotsjohnny-five-is-alivemechmechsno-disassembleopen-betaperpetuumperpetuum-onlinerobotWed, 06 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise reveals information on building damage and offensive structures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/earthrise-reveals-information-on-building-damage-and-offensive-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/earthrise-reveals-information-on-building-damage-and-offensive-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/earthrise-reveals-information-on-building-damage-and-offensive-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


A small note of neat news has come out of the Earthrise camp regarding building defensive structures for your guild and the options available to attackers who might wish to destroy said defensive structures.

In the forum's question of the week, the developers have revealed that base structures will have durability meters, as buildings just don't "break apart" the minute they're hit by something. However, these durability meters will slowly decline over time, representing wear and tear from the elements. This will require guilds to make sure that they upkeep their buildings, much like a real mechanic needs to check up on a building's machinery every so often. This "durability decrease" is currently set to a very infrequent amount, so busy guilds don't have to be repairing buildings constantly.

Attackers will also have combat options, but these will come in the form of mechs and temporary structures that can be placed on the map. These options have nowhere near the permanence of what defenders can produce, and that makes a large amount of sense to us, at least.

MassivelyEarthrise reveals information on building damage and offensive structures originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildingsdefensive-structuresdurabilityearthrisemechsoffensive-optionsrepairsiegesiege-enginesWed, 29 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deployment 16 stomps onto Tabula Rasa's battlefields]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/deployment-16-stomps-onto-tabula-rasas-battlefields/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/deployment-16-stomps-onto-tabula-rasas-battlefields/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/deployment-16-stomps-onto-tabula-rasas-battlefields/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If you've been clamoring for mechs, then clamor no more! Deployment 16 has now hit the Tabula Rasa servers, and you too can jump in a big 'ol mech and go stomp some people. Don't know how to find them? Don't worry, we've got you covered in that department.

The only downside to all of this mech joy is that they're only available in Edmund Range. But, with the mechs now being available, you can be sure that pretty much everyone is rushing on over to get a taste of steel in their system.

This patch isn't devoted entirely to mechs, though. Players will be happy to procure three new sets of armor, as well as 40 rare weapons that are named after TR players. The AFS buildings got a facelift as well, so there will be some new sights to see for all of the players before the game closes.

For the full patch notes, check them out on the Tabula Rasa website.

MassivelyDeployment 16 stomps onto Tabula Rasa's battlefields originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afsbreakingdeployment-16edmund-rangemechsncsoftnew-weaponspausrgtrtabula-rasaWed, 11 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TR's Mechs have arrived on PTS with Deployment 16]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/trs-mechs-have-arrived-on-pts-with-deployment-16/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/trs-mechs-have-arrived-on-pts-with-deployment-16/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/trs-mechs-have-arrived-on-pts-with-deployment-16/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Tabula Rasa's Public Test Server just received a brand new shipment of Mechs, and the AFS recruits are pumped! With the highly-anticipated Deployment 16 hitting the PTS last night, Personal Armor Units are finally here. The CELLAR Arena and the Edmund Range Training Grounds have both been expanded to accommodate the Mechs, as well as some newly available combat technology installed.

This patch also brought about some other goodies, including three new armor sets with level 50 stats that can be worn by any level, new pets, new emote items, hyper-EXP tokens and probably the coolest thing of all time: 40 unique weapons named after some of the game's most involved players. Look for a post later today regarding more on that. In the meantime, if you don't already have the PTS installed, check it out for these latest changes to the game before they go live.

MassivelyTR's Mechs have arrived on PTS with Deployment 16 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsmechspatchpauptspublic-test-servertabula-rasatrtr-deployment-16updateThu, 29 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you holding down the fort in Tabula Rasa?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/the-daily-grind-are-you-holding-down-the-fort-in-tabula-rasa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/the-daily-grind-are-you-holding-down-the-fort-in-tabula-rasa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/the-daily-grind-are-you-holding-down-the-fort-in-tabula-rasa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Listen up soldier and listen well! You have only a little over two months before the Bane reinforcements arrive and put the entire army of the Allied Free Sentients at risk in Richard Garriott's Tabula Rasa! We at the Massively.com detatchment want to know if you are on the front lines of the war, or are spending time in other battlefronts!

With the game becoming free to play, it seems that more soldiers are adding to the AFS front lines every day. But we here at Massively understand that you may not want to pick up your gun, as you know the war will be ending on February 28th! But the skilled engineers of the AFS have added many new tools of destruction to the field of war, such as a first-person tactical combat view and the highly anticipated PAUs and mechs!

So are you with us, soldier? Are you going to be using less mew mew and more pew pew? Shout out your plans in the comment box below, but be loud! That Bane artillery cannon on our position is causing too much of a racket!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are you holding down the fort in Tabula Rasa? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>first-person-viewfree-to-playmechsncsoftpausrgtrrichard-garriotttabula-rasathe-daily-grindThu, 08 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exteel's top ranking players and clans now viewable online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/exteels-top-ranking-players-and-clans-now-viewable-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/exteels-top-ranking-players-and-clans-now-viewable-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/exteels-top-ranking-players-and-clans-now-viewable-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


You guys sure do talk a lot of crap in-game. Let's see if those bragging rights really do belong to your clan. Now everyone really knows who the heck the top bots in Exteel are with the latest ranking feature on the Exteel website is live which displays player and clan ranks. There is no extra software to install, no manual profiles to keep up to date, all you have to do is log on and smash each other into smithereens. You can also search for clans and pilots too see where they stand, there's actually some jerk out there named Legolas. You know what to do if you see that player roaming in-game. Both ranking lists will update every 24 hours, early in the morning and the ranking system is currently in-beta so players can expect more features later down the road.

Be sure to check out our Exteel coverage, or jump right into the game by downloading the Exteel client.

MassivelyExteel's top ranking players and clans now viewable online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exteelfree-to-playgame-rankingsmechanaughtmechsmetricsncsoftplayer-rankspvpranksrobotsSat, 28 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[AFS mechs' new animations show their mettle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/afs-mechs-new-animations-show-their-mettle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/afs-mechs-new-animations-show-their-mettle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/afs-mechs-new-animations-show-their-mettle/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



As is usually the case, there were a lot of things that we wanted the Destination Games team to put into Tabula Rasa's patch 1.5 that we don't see in the build on the PTS. The opacity of the development process usually has that effect. But one of the nice benefits of our ignorance is that we are often quite pleasantly surprised by the unexpected things that we find every time a new build shows up on our a desktop. One of the things that eluded as when the patch notes were posted yesterday, but which delighted us when shown in motion is the new attacks and animations for the mechs that patrol the heavier AFS bases.

One player who goes by the name of Flashburn on the Planet TR forums was courteous enough to record these new animations for our viewing pleasure. Notice the way the mech raps on his head to unjam the rockets. It's subtle, but worthy of a chuckle. And who can't be at least slightly awed by that new jumping attack? Are these new animations in some a way preview for what's ahead with the long-promised personal armored units? We can only speculate at this point, but we're suddenly excited about the prospect all over again. We'll have more on the new build as we explore it.

MassivelyAFS mechs' new animations show their mettle originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationsdestination-gamesflashburnmechspatch-1.5paupausplanet-trptsrobotstabula-rasatrFri, 22 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST