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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Eberron and beyond: Seven years of Dungeons and Dragons Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/eberron-and-beyond-seven-years-of-dungeons-and-dragons-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/eberron-and-beyond-seven-years-of-dungeons-and-dragons-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/eberron-and-beyond-seven-years-of-dungeons-and-dragons-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Eberron and beyond 7 years of DDO
Dungeons and Dragons Online has always been a strange creature in the realm of MMOs. Ever since its launch, it decided to veer off in its own direction instead of following the rest of the pack. It brought back complicated character creation, somehow worked the arcane rules of D&D into an MMO format, and put a huge emphasis on group instanced content instead of world exploration.

Then when Turbine turned DDO into an experimental platform for a successful free-to-play model, suddenly the rest of the industry was following DDO instead. Virtually overnight, a small-teetering-on-extinction MMO became a modest hit well into its lifespan.

As DDO celebrates its seventh anniversary and looks back on the past year, let's look at how this odd duck of a game continues to surprise and delight gamers. Join us as we consider the journey that bridged the gap from last February to this one -- and see if, just maybe, DDO is calling you to roll its dice once more.

Continue reading Eberron and beyond: Seven years of Dungeons and Dragons Online

MassivelyEberron and beyond: Seven years of Dungeons and Dragons Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7th-anniversaryanniversaryddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playmenace-of-the-underdarkseventh-anniversaryturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-15update-16update-17Thu, 28 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Taking the high road with DDO's Update 16]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/taking-the-high-road-with-ddos-update-16/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/taking-the-high-road-with-ddos-update-16/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/taking-the-high-road-with-ddos-update-16/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Taking the high road with DDO's Update 16
You know how the saying goes: Neither wind nor rain nor hurricane will keep Turbine from its appointed rounds. While the studio lost power due to this past week's Hurricane Sandy, all of its games kept on ticking. Dungeons and Dragons Online Senior Producer Eric Boyer said the studio is generally hurricane-proof. "The servers are in a secret location powered by magic and are not affected by anything," he laughed. "Well, most anything."

We spoke with Boyer on the phone about DDO's second post-expansion update, which is loosely scheduled to hit the game in a couple of weeks. Update 16: The Netherese Legacy will continue the Forgotten Realms storyline that began with Menace of the Underdark and Update 15. It's an update that takes us down a famous path, introduces a new enemy faction, and gives additional love to the fledgling Druid class.

Gallery: DDO Update 16

Continue reading Taking the high road with DDO's Update 16

MassivelyTaking the high road with DDO's Update 16 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineebberoneric-boyerexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedforgotten-realmsfree-to-playgalleryinterviewinterviewsmenace-of-the-underdarkneverwinterscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentunderdarkupdate-15update-16update-17Sat, 03 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Worst expansion names of all time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/the-perfect-ten-worst-expansion-names-of-all-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/the-perfect-ten-worst-expansion-names-of-all-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/the-perfect-ten-worst-expansion-names-of-all-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Worst expansion names of all time
When SOE announced that EverQuest's 19th expansion would be titled Rain of Fear, I instantly found myself tripping over the name. I shouldn't have -- it's a few simple words that are first round picks for spelling contests -- but it defied the traditional naming conventions for MMO expansions. Many people I talked to kept wanting to write "reign" instead because "rain" seemed like a deliberate misspelling by some intern in Smedley's empire.

Homophones aside, Rain of Fear is hardly the worst expansion title I've ever seen. The industry has had its share of bad names, from the confusing to the downright unpronounceable. Sure, we get used to these titles, and perhaps it's nit-picky to lug them out at such a late point in many of their lifespans, but petty is my middle name. My first name is Tom. And these are 10 poorly named expansions. Deal with it.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Worst expansion names of all time

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Worst expansion names of all time originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoccpccp-gamescity-of-heroescity-of-villainsclassic-mmocohconquestcovcoxddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artseqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiforgotten-realmsfree-to-playfreedomFreyafuncomgalaxiesgeorge-lucasgoing-roguehumorinternet-spaceshipsjohn-smedleylineagelineage-2lineage-iilord-britishmenace-of-the-underdarkmythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftopinionp10paragonparagon-studiosperfect-10perfect-tenpvprage-of-the-wookieesrain-of-fearred-moon-risingriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararounduprvrSamurai-Empiresandboxsarah-palinsci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinesquaresquare-enixstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesstom-legionsuperherosuperheroesswgswgoThe-Legacy-of-Ykeshathe-notum-warsthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenThe-Splitpaw-Sagathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listTreasures-of-Aht-Urhgantriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentultimaultima onlineunderdarkuoThu, 11 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX Prime 2012: DDO has been busy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/01/pax-prime-2012-ddo-has-been-busy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/01/pax-prime-2012-ddo-has-been-busy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/01/pax-prime-2012-ddo-has-been-busy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

PAX Prime 2012 Song of Druid's Deep redux
Dungeons and Dragons Online has been keeping its dev team incredibly busy. It wasn't too long ago that the Menace of the Underdark expansion came out, and hot on its heels came update 15, the Song of Druid's Deep. Did you blink? Have you missed some of what's been going on? Luckily for you, we caught up with the Turbine team at PAX and have everything you need to know to get up to speed.

Menace of the Underdark introduced the world of the Forgotten Realms by leading players through the Demonweb, into the Underdark, and out into Faerûn and the town of Eveningstar. The Song of Druid's Deep update sends out the first tendrils of adventure into the wide world around Eveningstar. Players have to deal with a growing corruption -- zombie-like plant beings and infected humans and dryads -- and chase it to its putrid heart. If you want an in-depth look at the update, be sure to read our hands-on article about the Druid's Deep experience.

Update 15 comes not only with new quests and monsters, but the digital version of the time-honored monster manuals. Players with monster manuals can earn rewards, including Turbine points for big achievements and exclusive creature companions for the biggest achievements, while keeping track of all the terrifying foes they've faced. Additionally, there is a variant of the Ruined Keep challenge called the Daybreak Ritual.

The team isn't slowing down. With plans for a few quality of life fixes in the very near future and update 16 in November, Turbine is keeping up its quick pace. Update 16 will bring in five new quests, another wilderness area, and an emphasis on creating real connection between the areas of Faerûn.

Massively's on the ground in Seattle during the weekend of August 31st - September 2nd, bringing you all the best news from PAX Prime 2012. Whether you're dying to know more about WildStar, PlanetSide 2, RIFT: Storm Legion, or any MMO in between, you can bet we'll have it covered!

MassivelyPAX Prime 2012: DDO has been busy originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventionddodnddruiddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpof2pfantasyfree-to-playmenace-of-the-underdarkpatchpatchespaxpax-2012pax-primepax-prime-2012penny-arcade-exposong-of-druids-deepturbineturbine-entertainmentupdateupdate-15update-16Sat, 01 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A song of trees and fire: A deeper look at DDO's Update 15]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/24/a-song-of-trees-and-fire-a-deeper-look-at-ddos-update-15/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/24/a-song-of-trees-and-fire-a-deeper-look-at-ddos-update-15/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/24/a-song-of-trees-and-fire-a-deeper-look-at-ddos-update-15/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

A song of trees and fire A deeper look at DDO's Update 15
Earlier this week, Turbine released Update 15: Song of Druid's Deep for Dungeons and Dragons Online. Seeing as this was the first post-expansion update and that it took us further into the Forgotten Realms setting, we had to get a closer look at what Update 15 added to the game.

Lead Content Designer Ricardo Liu and Community Manager Amanda Grove invited us along to a tour of the new content. Liu said that the speed of Update 15's arrival is a sign that Turbine wants to kick up the pace of releases. The update includes a new four-quest adventure pack, the monster manual, and an additional challenge.

With Update 15, many more options are available in the DDO store. Turbine's set the pricing as follows: Menace of the Underdark adventure packs are 2495 Turbine Points for all, account-wide epic destiny unlock is 995 TP, the Eveningstar Challenge Pack is free for VIPs and 695 TP for others, and the Druid class is free for VIPs and 1495 TP for others.

The pricing details out of the way, we got right into the fun of all of Update 15's new adventures. It's a tale that will give the green thumbs among you a plague of nightmares.

Continue reading A song of trees and fire: A deeper look at DDO's Update 15

MassivelyA song of trees and fire: A deeper look at DDO's Update 15 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Aug 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amanda-groveddodnddruiddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineelminstereveningstarexpansionf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playhands-onharpersinterviewinterviewsmenace-of-the-underdarkpreviewpreviewsricardo-liusong-of-druids-deepturbineturbine-entertainmentunderdarkupdate-15Fri, 24 Aug 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO Update 15 goes live with new adventure pack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/ddo-update-15-goes-live-with-new-adventure-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/ddo-update-15-goes-live-with-new-adventure-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/ddo-update-15-goes-live-with-new-adventure-pack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

DDO Update 15 goes live with new adventure pack
Never letting a little thing like releasing an expansion pack slow them down, the developers at Turbine have pumped out the first post-Menace of the Underdark update for Dungeons and Dragons Online.

Update 15: Song of Druid's Deep significantly adds on to the expansion content, including the titular adventure pack for high-level characters. This adventure pack includes four quests and comes in two varieties: level 17 and 23. There's also a new challenge called The Ruined Keep: The Daybreak Ritual which is being included with the Eveningstar challenge pack.

On top of that, the latest update for DDO includes a "monster manual" that can be filled out for extra rewards, the ability to purchase the expansion through the DDO store, and several tweaks for the wet-behind-the-ears Druid class.

MassivelyDDO Update 15 goes live with new adventure pack originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygen-congen-con-2012menace-of-the-underdarkpatchpatchesscreenshotscreenshotssong-of-druids-deepturbineturbine-entertainmentunderdarkupdateupdate-15updatesMon, 20 Aug 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[D&D Online's Song of Druid's Deep screenshots released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/dandd-onlines-song-of-druids-deep-screenshots-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/dandd-onlines-song-of-druids-deep-screenshots-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/16/dandd-onlines-song-of-druids-deep-screenshots-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dungeons & Dragons Online screenshots released
It's been a little while since Dungeons & Dragons Online's Menace of the Underdark expansion came out, which means it must be time for a content update. Surely enough, Monday, August 20th, will be playing host to the launch of the game's Update 15: Song of Druid's Deep.

The update will bring in a new Monster Manual and a brand-new adventure pack with new dungeons and exciting monsters. You can get a sneak peek of three of the dungeons -- Outbreak, Overgrowth, and Thorn & Paw -- right here! Check out the gallery below to get a glimpse of what awaits you in the Song of Druid's Deep.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: D&D Online update 15: Song of Druid's Deep

MassivelyD&D Online's Song of Druid's Deep screenshots released originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Aug 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygen-congen-con-2012menace-of-the-underdarkpatchpatchesscreenshotscreenshotssong-of-druids-deepturbineturbine-entertainmentunderdarkupdateupdate-15updatesThu, 16 Aug 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes Extra: Five exclusive DDO music tracks for your listening pleasure]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/jukebox-heroes-extra-five-exclusive-ddo-music-tracks-for-your-l/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/jukebox-heroes-extra-five-exclusive-ddo-music-tracks-for-your-l/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/jukebox-heroes-extra-five-exclusive-ddo-music-tracks-for-your-l/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Extra Five exclusive DDO music tracks for your listening pleasure
I'll be honest: Part of the reason I'm doing this column is to get my grubby mitts (and ears) on as much MMO music as possible. So while it's great to talk with composers about their projects, I'm even more interesting in hearing the finished result.

For a companion piece to my Chance Thomas interview, Turbine sent over five exclusive tracks from Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark. Sound Video Technology Director Steve DiGregorio wrote, performed, and recorded each of these, as both he and Thomas collaborated on Turbine's two expansions. In addition to the tracks and my thoughts on them, DiGregorio provided descriptions of each for illumination.

Are you excited? I know I am, so let's hop to it!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes Extra: Five exclusive DDO music tracks for your listening pleasure

MassivelyJukebox Heroes Extra: Five exclusive DDO music tracks for your listening pleasure originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Aug 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chance-thomascomposercomposersddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexclusiveexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedforgotten-realmsfree-to-playgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimenace-of-the-underdarkmmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionphil-speerriders-of-rohanrorscoresoundtracksoundtracksSteve-DiGregorioturbineturbine-entertainmentunderdarkThu, 02 Aug 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Chance Thomas talks about scoring Turbine's expansions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/jukebox-heroes-chance-thomas-talks-about-scoring-turbines-expa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/jukebox-heroes-chance-thomas-talks-about-scoring-turbines-expa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/jukebox-heroes-chance-thomas-talks-about-scoring-turbines-expa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes A chat with Chance Thomas about scoring Turbine's expansions
For many Lord of the Rings Online players, the name Chance Thomas is synonymous with the feel of virtual Middle-earth. From the earliest days in the game, explorers have traversed the Shire, Moria, and beyond listening to Thomas' melodies. So we were excited to hear that Turbine is bringing Thomas back to score not only Riders of Rohan (his first soundtrack for the game since Mines of Moria) but also Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark as well.

Thomas is an Oscar- and Emmy-winning composer who's been working primarily in the field of video game music since 1998. Being a huge fan of MMO soundtracks, I made it a personal quest to talk with him about these two new scores and how he feels about working in this genre. In the weeks ahead, I'll be reviewing both Rohan and Underdark's soundtracks, but today I wanted to focus on the man behind the music.

Join me, then, as we embark on a voyage to worlds far away, sailing on the wings of a song. Geez, that's cheesy, ain't it?

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Chance Thomas talks about scoring Turbine's expansions

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Chance Thomas talks about scoring Turbine's expansions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarchampions-onlinechance-thomascomposercomposerscompositioncrypticddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineemmyexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedforgotten-realmsfree-to-playgame-musicinterviewjames-cameronjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromenace-of-the-underdarkmiddle-earth-onlinemines-of-moriammo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionoscarquest-for-glory-vriders-of-rohanrorscoreshadows-of-angmarshadows-of-mordorsierra-onlinesoundtracksoundtrackssteve-digregoriotreason-of-isengardturbineturbine-entertainmentunderdarkuniversalvivendivivendi-universalTue, 31 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[D&D Online showcases two more Menace of the Underdark dungeons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/dandd-online-showcases-two-more-menace-of-the-underdark-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/dandd-online-showcases-two-more-menace-of-the-underdark-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/dandd-online-showcases-two-more-menace-of-the-underdark-dungeons/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Dungeons & Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark screenshot
If you have the urge to hack-and-slash your way through some undead or test your mettle against a new type of demon, Dungeon and Dragons Online's recent expansion Menace of the Underdark has just the two dungeons for you. The Unquiet Graves dungeon features Drow necromancers desecrating a once-peaceful graveyard and constantly reanimating the bodies of the dead. The second dungeon, The Deal and the Demon, pairs players with the notorious mercenaries, the Yugoloth, to get rid of a demon lord deep inside the Demonweb.

Peer into these new dungeons in the gallery below.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyD&D Online showcases two more Menace of the Underdark dungeons originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoDemonwebdnddungeonsdungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playgallerymenace-of-the-underdarknew-dungeonsscreenshotsThe-Deal-and-the-DemonThe-Unquiet-Gravesturbineturbine-entertainmentunderdarkYugolothThu, 19 Jul 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO opens a window to Menace of the Underdark raid]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/ddo-opens-a-window-to-menace-of-the-underdark-raid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/ddo-opens-a-window-to-menace-of-the-underdark-raid/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/ddo-opens-a-window-to-menace-of-the-underdark-raid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

DDO opens a window to Menace of the Underdark raid
While Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark has been out almost a month now, there's still a lot of the new expansion that remains to be seen by the public. One of these views is that of the final boss of the capstone 12-person raid, Lolth.

Turbine's sent in a few pictures showing this intense battle between level 25 players and her royal spiderness in the Demonweb. Check them out! That's not a suggestion; it's an order.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyDDO opens a window to Menace of the Underdark raid originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playgallerylolthmenace-of-the-underdarkraidscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentunderdarkWed, 11 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO shows off new expansion dungeon House of Broken Chains]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/03/ddo-shows-off-new-expansion-dungeon-house-of-broken-chains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/03/ddo-shows-off-new-expansion-dungeon-house-of-broken-chains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/03/ddo-shows-off-new-expansion-dungeon-house-of-broken-chains/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

DDO: Menace of the Underdark screenshot
Dungeons and Dragons Online's first expansion Menace of the Underdark is now a week old, but have you seen everything? Neither have we. Luckily for us all, Turbine keeps treating us to screenshots showcasing the new areas. Today the spotlight is on the new dungeon called House of Broken Chains. Besides just offering the standard fare of foes, this dungeon presents a new dynamic in the game. As players fight both slaves and their masters, they can choose to kill all of the slave masters and free the slaves or simply eradicate everything in true hack-and-slash form.

Take a look at the images of this new dungeon along with other Menace of the Underdark screens in the gallery below.

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark


[Source: Turbine press release]

MassivelyDDO shows off new expansion dungeon House of Broken Chains originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jul 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddungeonsdungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playgalleryHouse-of-Broken-Chainsmenace-of-the-underdarknew-dungeonsscreenshotsslavesturbineturbine-entertainmentunderdarkTue, 03 Jul 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 206: Tear harvesters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/massively-speaking-episode-206-tear-harvesters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/massively-speaking-episode-206-tear-harvesters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/massively-speaking-episode-206-tear-harvesters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 206 Expanding our minds
It's expansion week here on Massively Speaking, as we tackle numerous additions to our favorite games (as well as a brand-new one launching this week)! Bree's back with her acerbic charm, and Justin's positively bouncing with the desire to relay all of this in a giant showtunes number. The MMO news train stops for nobody, so hop aboard and pull that whistle!

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:
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 206: Tear harvesters

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 206: Tear harvesters originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrantbrianna-roycecash-shopccpccp-gamesconquestd3ddodiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveeve-onlineexpansionf2pfactionfantasyfeaturedffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiforgotten-realmsfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasyhorrorhumorinternet-spaceshipsjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmenace-of-the-underdarkmultiplayermythologyonline-multiplayeropinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastspvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararoguelikerpgrvrsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldSeekers-of-Adoulinskill-basedsoaspreadsheets-onlinesquaresquare-enixthe-secret-worldthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldstswturbineturbine-entertainmentunderdarkTue, 26 Jun 2012 16:30:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 206Massively.com Staff01:04:44podcasts<![CDATA[Touring Dungeons and Dragons Online's Demonweb]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/touring-dungeons-and-dragons-onlines-demonweb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/touring-dungeons-and-dragons-onlines-demonweb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/touring-dungeons-and-dragons-onlines-demonweb/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

DDO's Demonweb
To be honest, I haven't delved very deep into Dungeons and Dragons Online, and I have lost count of how many times I've gone through that first introductory dungeon. The reason isn't the game itself. It seems great, and Turbine has done a lot of work on it over the years. What always gets to me is the setting. For me, "Dungeons and Dragons" is synonymous with Forgotten Realms, and while Eberron seems interesting, it causes a mental disconnect.

So when Turbine finally got its hands on the Forgotten Realms-license and offered Massively a tour of some of the areas in the now-released expansion Menace of the Underdark, I jumped at the opportunity. Even if I'm not Chaotic Evil in real life, my inner Drow couldn't resist a trip to the Demonweb.

Continue reading Touring Dungeons and Dragons Online's Demonweb

MassivelyTouring Dungeons and Dragons Online's Demonweb originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online Menace of the Underdark goes live
Hope your dice are polished and your character sheets fresh from the copier: Dungeons and Dragons Online's first expansion has gone live on Turbine's servers. Menace of the Underdark is now available for all players who have purchased the digital expansion pack from the studio.

Menace of the Underdark represents a sizable addition to the game. With it, DDO is expanding into the Forgotten Realms campaign setting and offers a new class, the Druid. Players will also be able to level up to 25 and expand their characters with the epic destinies system.

"Menace of the Underdark delivers a wealth of content for our players and introduces significant engine upgrades that allow us to bring to life in a striking, visually impressive manner two of the most requested features, the new Druid class and access to the Forgotten Realms setting," said Executive Producer Fernando Paiz.

While you patch up the game, you can check out the last of Menace of the Underdark's developer interviews after the jump!

[Source: Turbine press release]

[Update: Turbine just announced over Twitter that the game is now available on Steam!]

Continue reading Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark goes live [Updated]

MassivelyDungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark goes live [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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No expansions ever open up new sunny resort islands and a new foot massage system.
If you're an avid Dungeons & Dragons Online player, you probably already have Menace of the Underdark preordered. After all, the expansion is launching on June 25th, so you've got less than a week to wait. But that's still not quite "launching right now," and even if you have the expansion purchased, you might want a look at more of what to expect. The newest batch of expansion screenshots should help tide you over for the next few days.

So what's in there? Aside from previews of two of the new quests coming in the expansion, there's also a look at the environment and architecture of Sschyndrylin, which is not exactly a pleasant spot to hang out over the weekend. Take a look at the gallery below for a full lineup of all the new screenshots as well as the previous shots of the expansion, and mark your calendar for Monday, when you can start killing Drow on your new Druid.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyDungeons & Dragons Online offers up new Menace of the Underdark screens originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymenace-of-the-underdarkmotunew-screenshotspreviewpreview-screenshotspreviewsscreenshotscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentWed, 20 Jun 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Breaking down Riders of Rohan's pre-purchase]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/09/the-road-to-mordor-breaking-down-riders-of-rohans-pre-purchase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/09/the-road-to-mordor-breaking-down-riders-of-rohans-pre-purchase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/09/the-road-to-mordor-breaking-down-riders-of-rohans-pre-purchase/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Road to Mordor Breaking down Riders of Rohan's prepurchase
This past week or so has been absolutely nuts with all the new information flooding in about this fall's Riders of Rohan. We've gotten confirmation about the release date, the expansion website, pricing information for the different expansion pack editions, a partial feature list, an official FAQ, word of a forthcoming instance cluster, and a first look at the mounted combat system.

Expansions always rile up the Lord of the Rings Online faithful, and I'm pretty jazzed to see whether Turbine can pull off what's probably the most epic addition to the game since Mines of Moria. I'm going to save analysis of the expansion as a whole until next week because today I want to dive into the slightly confusing morass of pre-purchase options and pricing to see what's worth pursuing -- and what might be worth ignoring.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Breaking down Riders of Rohan's pre-purchase

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Breaking down Riders of Rohan's pre-purchase originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 09 Jun 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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I have the conch shell, and that means I get to be High Priestess, and I say today is Sacrifice Everyone Else Who Wants To Be High Priestess Day!
In preparation for the upcoming expansion Menace of the Underdark, the team behind Dungeons & Dragons Online has been producing a series of preview videos about the new content to be found. The newest video focuses on the lore of the Underdark and the Forgotten Realms, a far more traditional fantasy setting compared to Dungeons & Dragons Online's normal home of Eberron. As discussed in the video, it's a challenging setting to work with, and not just because player expectations are high.

From a visual standpoint, the Underdark is iconic, but it's also challenging to keep interesting -- after all, it's made up of miles of caverns that need extra points of visual interest. On the storytelling side, the problem is almost reversed, with so many iconic monsters and characters that it's a challenge to fit everything in there. Take a look at the preview just past the break to see how the team addressed these issues and to get a peek at some of the monsters and environments from the new expansion.

Continue reading Dungeons & Dragons Online discusses the lore of the Underdark

MassivelyDungeons & Dragons Online discusses the lore of the Underdark originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jun 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-menace-of-the-underdarkdnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionexpansion-previewexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playloremenace-of-the-underdarkmenace-of-the-underdark-video-previewpreviewpreviewstrailertrailersturbineturbine-entertainmentvideovideosThu, 07 Jun 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeons and Dragons Online unveils new Menace of the Underdark screens, video, open beta [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/dungeons-and-dragons-online-unveils-new-menace-of-the-underdark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/dungeons-and-dragons-online-unveils-new-menace-of-the-underdark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/dungeons-and-dragons-online-unveils-new-menace-of-the-underdark/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Dungeons and Dragons Online
On the 25th of this month, Dungeons and Dragons Online players will have the opportunity to set foot in the treacherous caverns of the Underdark for the first time with the launch of the game's next expansion, Menace of the Underdark. To help players prepare for this momentous excursion, the folks at Turbine have released a new behind-the-scenes video that introduces players to some of what they can expect from the depths of the Drow homeland.

Drow, of course, are a given. Players can look forward to squaring off against the race's nefarious priestesses and mutated dryders while they explore the city of Sschindylryn below the King's Forest of Cormyr. A number of deadly creatures await curious adventurers, including a new dragon for players to hunt. For the full details on what to expect from the Underdark, just check out the gallery below and then click past the cut for the full video.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark



[Update: Turbine likewise announced today that the expansion is in open beta, so head to the forums and jump in!]

Continue reading Dungeons and Dragons Online unveils new Menace of the Underdark screens, video, open beta [Updated]

MassivelyDungeons and Dragons Online unveils new Menace of the Underdark screens, video, open beta [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jun 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online - Lolth in Demonweb
It's Wednesday, which generally means two things. One, there are only a couple of days left until the weekend. Two, there are probably some new Dungeons and Dragons Online expansion screenshots to share. Turbine has gifted us with yet another set of captures from the upcoming Menace of the Underdark update.

This batch centers on the Demonweb region. If you're not up on your Forgotten Realms lore, Demonweb is basically the spider goddess Lolth's home plane. As a result, arachnophobes will want to move on to the next post. For everyone else, there's our MotU gallery below.

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyDDO expansion screens take you inside Demonweb originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online - dryads
Want the latest Dungeons and Dragons Online expansion screenshots? We've got them for you in our gallery below, and they focus on dryads and werewolf monsters from the forthcoming Menace of the Underdark patch. The shots are set in the Eveningstar region of the Forgotten Realms, which players will initially encounter after porting over from DDO's original Eberron locale.

Menace of the Underdark will add quite a bit of new content to DDO, including a new Druid class, epic destinies, and an old familiar campaign setting. The expansion is now available for pre-order on Turbine's website. It launches on June 25th.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyDDO expansion screens show off dryads, werewolves originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online - Druid wolf form
Turbine continues its Menace of the Underdark info blitz this morning with a new video centering on Dungeons and Dragons Online's maiden expansion. If you've been hiding in a troll cave for the last month, you may not be aware that the devs are taking players from Eberron to the Forgotten Realms starting on June 25th.

There's also a new Druid class, which is the focus of today's dev diary clip. Executive producer Fernando Paiz calls the Druid the single most requested feature by the DDO playerbase over the last six years. Click past the cut to learn more about the class and see if it measures up to your expectations.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Continue reading New DDO Menace of the Underdark video profiles Druid class

MassivelyNew DDO Menace of the Underdark video profiles Druid class originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DDO
On Thursday, Turbine will take the wraps off of Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark and commence with the closed beta. It's a heady time for both the team and playerbase, as this 2007 title steps into the big leagues of expansion-holding MMOs. And because we know you hate waiting for all the goods, we joined Turbine on the test server for an advance look at some of the hottest features coming with June's launch.

On the phone with us was Senior Producer Eric Boyer, Community Specialist Amanda Grove, and Design Director Ian Currie. "We want to show players how big the expansion pack is and how much it'll be changing the game," Boyer began, telling us that levels one through 20 were merely "heroic" -- now it'll be time to make the move into epic territory.

From a look at the much-anticipated Druid and the previously vague Epic Destinies to a lightning tour of your first day in the Forgotten Realms, the team was out to convince us that Menace of the Underdark is fully worthy of the "expansion" moniker. How's it looking so far? Take a look for yourself!

Continue reading Druids, Drow, and destinies in an epic DDO expansion tour

MassivelyDruids, Drow, and destinies in an epic DDO expansion tour originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amanda-grovebetacharacter-customizationddodnddrowdruiddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronepic-destiniesepic-destinyepic-destiny-systemeric-boyerEveningStarexpansionf2pfantasyfate-pointsforgotten-realmsfree-to-playhands-onian-currielevel-cap-increaselord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromenace-of-the-underdarkmoriapreviewthe-darkeningturbineturbine-entertainmenttwist-of-fateuiupdate-15wolf-packWed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO's Menace of the Underdark expansion beta starts May 10th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/ddos-menace-of-the-underdark-expansion-beta-starts-may-10th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/ddos-menace-of-the-underdark-expansion-beta-starts-may-10th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/ddos-menace-of-the-underdark-expansion-beta-starts-may-10th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - when dark elves attack
Last week we showed you some screenshots of Eveningstar, a new town in Dungeons and Dragons Online's upcoming Menace of the Underdark expansion. Today Turbine has released four additional shots taken in and around the small settlement that greets players as they transition from Eberron to the Forgotten Realms.

Turbine has also told us that the expansion closed beta will kick off on May 10th. The testing period will be exclusive to pre-order purchasers of MotU, so head to the official DDO site to learn more!

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyDDO's Menace of the Underdark expansion beta starts May 10th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online - Eveningstar under siege
Another week, another set of screenshots for Dungeons and Dragons Online's new Menace of the Underdark expansion. This time around, we've got two new areas to explore: the town of Eveningstar (and some night battles set therein) and the Ruins of Temple Mystra.

DDO players can check these areas out after leaving Eberron behind and stepping into Turbine's version of the beloved Forgotten Realms campaign setting. The expansion, DDO's first, is slated for June 25th. Head to the official website for more, but not before you peruse our screenshot gallery below.

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark


[Source: Turbine press release]

MassivelySee Eveningstar under siege in new DDO expansion screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online - spider queen
Turbine has released the next installment in its Menace of the Underdark dev diary series. The video clip runs for two-and-a-half minutes and features various developer personalities discussing Dungeons and Dragons Online's jump from one fantasy world to another.

"It's really important to us that Faerun feels unique and is more true to the classic high-fantasy setting," says producer Fernando Paiz. Whereas Eberron featured elements of fantasy-tech and magicpunk, the Forgotten Realms is one of the more iconic and traditional high fantasy settings around. As such, Turbine says, it has collaborated closely with Wizards of the Coast to ensure the authenticity of the expansion experience.

So what is the link between these two different realms? In a word, Lolth, the drow spider-queen goddess who is powerful enough to connect the worlds. Turbine remains mum on the specifics, though, so you'll have to check out the expansion to see for yourself.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Continue reading Turbine talks Eberron vs. Forgotten realms in new DDO video

MassivelyTurbine talks Eberron vs. Forgotten realms in new DDO video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beyond-the-gamebeyond-the-web-trailerddoddo-expansionddo-expansion-videoddo-videodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playmagicpunkmenace-of-the-underdarkmenace-of-the-underdark-videoturbineturbine-entertainmentvideoFri, 20 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine shows off new DDO expansion beasties]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/turbine-shows-off-new-ddo-expansion-beasties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/turbine-shows-off-new-ddo-expansion-beasties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/turbine-shows-off-new-ddo-expansion-beasties/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - dire carebear
Those coy devils at Turbine have released another batch of screenshots hyping the upcoming expansion pack for Dungeons and Dragons Online. As you're probably aware, the Menace of the Underdark update will transport players from Eberron to the Forgotten Realms. As such, there are certain iconic D&D monsters that simply must make an appearance.

Chief among these are the drider, the dire bear, the green dragon, and the draegloth. We've got these and a few more available for your perusal in our DDO gallery below, so give them a good look before you head to the game's official site for more info on the expansion. And hurry up already; the new content is coming June 25th!

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyTurbine shows off new DDO expansion beasties originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online - Menace of the Underdark combat
Can't get enough of Turbine's new Dungeons and Dragons Online expansion, eh? We can't either, and fortunately the firm has released a new trailer that takes us behind the scenes on the making of the Menace of the Underdark content.

The clip features producer Fernando Paiz, who calls the expansion the largest content push in the game's six-year history. Since the expansion is delving into a new IP (the Forgotten Realms, as opposed to DDO's original Eberron setting), the devs have had to adjust their thinking in terms of both content and art direction. Turbine's Jeff De Puy says that "almost all the monsters [the devs are] creating for Forgotten Realms are epically large and big."

How epically large and big? You'll have to click past the cut and view the video to find out.

Continue reading New DDO trailer goes behind the scenes on Underdark expansion

MassivelyNew DDO trailer goes behind the scenes on Underdark expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online concept art
Dungeons and Dragons Online players are in for a whole new world of adventure when Menace of the Underdark launches this summer. The expansion, due to release on June 25th, will send players into the Forgotten Realms to fight against the Queen of Spiders, Lolth. Executive Producer Fernando Paiz and Senior Producer Eric Boyer welcomed us into their lair... er, Turbine's booth... to talk about the upcoming expansion at this year's PAX East. Read on for our preview!

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Menace of the Underdark brings big changes to Dungeons and Dragons Online

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Menace of the Underdark brings big changes to Dungeons and Dragons Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons & Dragons Online - Eveningstar cavern
A new Menace of the Underdark update is here, and no, we're not talking about the latest antics of elected officials in EVE Online. You're probably aware by now that Turbine is branching out its Dungeons & Dragons Online foothold to include portions of the beloved Forgotten Realms campaign setting. Players crossing over from Eberron to the Realms will first encounter a mystical forest cavern underneath the new Eveningstar region. Turbine has released a handful of screenshots to show off the new zone, and we've collected them for you in the gallery below.

The MotU expansion is due on June 25th, and in it, adventurers will explore the "vast subterranean world of the underdark" as well as play around with a new Druid class and an increased level cap.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyTurbine releases new DDO expansion screens, shows off Eveningstar cavern originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online - Druid shapeshifting
Turbine has a present for all you would-be shape-shifters out there, and it takes the form of the new Druid class coming with Dungeons and Dragons Online's new Menace of the Underdark expansion.

The content drops on June 25th, and the Druid will be available as a premium playable class (and free to VIPs). The Druid is primarily a caster, but he's also proficient with daggers, sickles, staves, and clubs. His signature ability allows him to transform into a winter wolf, a dire bear, a water elemental, or a fire elemental. Each shape has its own set of spells, and the class also features a Druidic oath that boosts resistances to entanglement, poison, and other natural ailments.

More info on the expansion is available via Turbine's official website.

[Source: Turbine press release]

MassivelyTurbine reveals shape-shifting DDO Druid class originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesddodnddruiddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionsf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playmenace-of-the-underdarkshape-shiftingshapeshifterturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine enlists Chance Thomas to score LotRO, DDO expansions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/turbine-enlists-chance-thomas-to-score-lotro-ddo-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/turbine-enlists-chance-thomas-to-score-lotro-ddo-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/turbine-enlists-chance-thomas-to-score-lotro-ddo-expansions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chance Thomas
If you were disappointed by the absence of new music in Lord of the Rings Online's last couple of expansions, then today is a good opportunity to break out the headphones in celebration. Composer Chance Thomas has announced that Turbine contracted him to create an "all-original orchestral, choral and acoustic ensemble score" for this fall's Riders of Rohan.

It's not just LotRO audiophiles who have cause to rejoice, either: Thomas is also on board with creating the music for Dungeons and Dragons Online's first expansion, Menace of the Underdark.

Thomas' career in video game music dates back to the late '90s with Quest for Glory V. LotRO players know him best as one of the composers for both Shadows of Angmar and Mines of Moria. Menace of the Underdark will release June 25th, while Riders of Rohan is scheduled for some time this fall.

MassivelyTurbine enlists Chance Thomas to score LotRO, DDO expansions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chance-thomascomposerddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromenace-of-the-underdarkmines-of-moriamusicriders-of-rohanscoreshadows-of-angmarsoundtrackturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 06 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

DDO Menace of the Underdark
Speaking of Guinness World Records for video games, I wonder whether Dungeons and Dragons Online would be eligible for "Longest time between game release and launch of its first expansion?" Six years may just be the longest we've ever witnessed, as DDO released in 2006, and it wasn't until 2012 that Menace of the Underdark was revealed. The good news is that come June 25th, the drought will be over.

We asked Turbine why now seemed like a good time for an expansion. The devs said that Atari had made some noise back in the day about one, but it never came to fruition. With the success of free-to-play, Turbine wanted to see whether the expansion model was still viable, so Lord of the Rings Online was chosen as a test subject. When Rise of Isengard became the best-selling expansion for the company, the company felt secure letting DDO have a chance, although there was quite a lot of wrangling with Wizards of the Coast about the details and permissions.

Record or no, it's an exciting event for DDO players, and the today, Turbine has announced the two biggest details for the expansion's schedule. The first is that Menace of the Underdark has a release date, and the second is the opening of pre-orders. Read on to get all of the juicy infos.

Continue reading DDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders

MassivelyDDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DDO
The vanguard of the free-to-play MMO movement is bearing down on the industry this spring, as Dungeons and Dragons Online prepares for its sixth birthday, its 13th update, and its first expansion. We sat down with Turbine Executive Producer Fernando Paiz and Senior Producer Eric Boyer to talk about this coming Monday's Update 13 and what players have to look forward to once it goes live.

Update 13 comes at what could be seen as a renaissance in the game's history. Following DDO's transition to F2P, Turbine saw an upsurge in players and profits that continues to this day. Paiz said that "the game is doing very well," and while he did not disclose numbers, he feels that DDO's status as one of the first F2P adaptations gave it a lead that others have yet to overtake.

Even so, with only five updates in 2011, it's hard to deny that DDO has faded into the background somewhat as newer titles and more recent F2P transitions hogged the spotlight. Turbine means to rectify this: "I think it's safe to say that this year we're making some noise again," Paiz said confidently. He went on to share just why this Monday's patch will be one of the most pivitol in DDO's history.

Continue reading Unraveling DDO's Web of Chaos: Turbine talks Update 13

MassivelyUnraveling DDO's Web of Chaos: Turbine talks Update 13 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online - Lolth
Dungeons and Dragons Online's new Forgotten Realms-themed expansion is on its way, but before it arrives on your desktop, Turbine will be upgrading the game via a prequel patch called Web of Chaos. Update 13 includes three new quests (the Lords of Dust, Servants of the Overlord, and Spinner of Shadows) as well as new veteran status that allows players to start their characters at level seven.

The update features new items too, and we've got a preview of the patch in our DDO gallery below. Check it out for the latest screenshots featuring Lolth and the Drow.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online Update 13 Preview

MassivelyTurbine releases new DDO Web of Chaos images originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DDO
Prequels are generally bad, bad things that your mother warned you about but you didn't believe her until you saw The Phantom Menace. Occasionally, however, there is the rare exception, such as Dungeons & Dragons Online's Update 13, which Turbine is billing as the prequel to this summer's Menace of the Underdark expansion pack.

Update 13: Web of Chaos has a generous portion of goodies for all players in the form of three new free quests. These quests include tackling a uppity cult, freeing a prisoner from captivity, and battling the nefarious Spinner of Shadows itself.

Also coming with DDO's next update will be a few additional store options, cosmetic pets, and the ability to unlock level 7 veteran status. The latter acquisition will allow you to make a new level 7 adventurer right out of the gate and can either be purchased with real money or in-game favor.

You can read up on Update 13 and the expansion pack in our recent interview with Turbine.

MassivelyDDO 'prequel' update prepping community for the expansion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online - dark elves
Turbine doesn't think subscription MMOs are dying, which might come as something of a surprise to fans of the pay-as-you-go business model that's spreading like wildfire across the Western MMO landscape.

"It's probably not right to say the subscription MMO is dying, it's probably more right to say the idea of forcing a player to only have one option for having to consume your content -- that's probably dying," says spokesman Adam Mersky in a piece at Eurogamer.

Mersky goes on to say that brave new business models are the norm across the entertainment spectrum, and he also claims that Turbine "certainly pioneered" free-to-play in the online gaming space (though it's worth noting that Funcom introduced a F2P option for Anarchy Online in 2004, five years before Dungeons and Dragons Online took the plunge).

Finally, the Eurogamer piece touches on the upcoming Menace of the Underdark expansion as well as the unnamed "future project" that the company first hinted about in 2009.

MassivelyTurbine: Subscription model isn't dead originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-merskybusiness-modelsddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playmenace-of-the-underdarksubscription-modelturbineTurbine-EntertainmentMon, 30 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine makes 'biggest announcement since free-to-play' for Dungeons and Dragons Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/turbine-makes-biggest-announcement-since-free-to-play-for-dung/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/turbine-makes-biggest-announcement-since-free-to-play-for-dung/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/turbine-makes-biggest-announcement-since-free-to-play-for-dung/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lolth
The Dungeons and Dragons Online developers have been enjoying the game's success, and things are running smoothly, but fans know that doesn't mean the team's been kicking back and relaxing. We've had content updates regularly, and not just little token patches but rather new adventure packs, new races and classes, the addition of crafting, and much more.

Have you enjoyed the past year or so in DDO? Well, hang on to your hats because we spent some time chatting with Eric Boyer and Fernando Paiz and... well, those updates aren't the only thing the developers have been working on.

Click past the break to see what's about to take DDO by storm.

Continue reading Turbine makes 'biggest announcement since free-to-play' for Dungeons and Dragons Online

MassivelyTurbine makes 'biggest announcement since free-to-play' for Dungeons and Dragons Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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