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[Allods Online prepares players for patch 3.0.2 with a new mini-site]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/allods-online-prepares-players-for-patch-3-0-2-with-a-new-mini-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/allods-online-prepares-players-for-patch-3-0-2-with-a-new-mini-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/allods-online-prepares-players-for-patch-3-0-2-with-a-new-mini-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Allods Online
Allods Online's mascots are back for another humorous video, as Troll and Crab try their hands (claws) at making potions. It doesn't quite go as expected, but it's hard to blame Crab for what happens (he's just an earnest little guy). This is all to promote the game's newest update, patch 3.0.2, which promises to be a savory concoction for players to quaff. Over the weekend, gPotato opened up a new mini-site to promote the update and has since posted several new articles highlighting the changes.

Some of patch 3.0.2's big selling points include a revamp of the Alchemy profession, the ability for pets to do the looting, a neat-sounding mentor system, a new skirmish called The Deserted Farm, a free-for-all treasure hunting space, a new raid boss, and better questing.

Before you head over to see all of the patch changes, make sure to catch up on the latest episode of Troll and Crab after the break!

[Thanks to Alex for the tip!]

Continue reading Allods Online prepares players for patch 3.0.2 with a new mini-site

MassivelyAllods Online prepares players for patch 3.0.2 with a new mini-site originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.0.2alchemyallodsallods-onlineastral-spaceastrum-nivalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatohumormentormentor-systemmini-sitepatchpatch-3.0.2patch-previewpet-lootingpvpskirmishtrailertreasure-hunttroll-and-crabvideoMon, 14 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online's patch 3.0.2 bringing mentor system, new Astral space]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/allods-onlines-patch-3-0-1-bringing-mentor-system-new-astral-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/allods-onlines-patch-3-0-1-bringing-mentor-system-new-astral-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/allods-onlines-patch-3-0-1-bringing-mentor-system-new-astral-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Allods Online
Allods Online's astral space is about to get just a little bit bigger thanks to the game's recently announced patch 3.0.2. The title's publisher, gPotato, announced today that the game's May content update will be bringing "a host of fixes and tweaks alongside some significant new features, including a new mentoring system and a new sector of astral space dedicated to free-for-all treasure hunting."

The game's mentoring system allows experienced, high-level players to impart their wisdom and knowledge upon new characters of the same faction and archetype. The system is managed entirely through the game's mentor interface, which also helps to match prospective apprentices with a mentor. Mentors can receive a number of rewards, including gold and marks of diligence, depending on the amount of time the mentor spends with his apprentice. The update is also unveiling a new area of astral space wherein players will compete in a free-for-all battle for randomly spawning treasure, but be warned: The more players are in the zone, the higher the chance that a demon will show up to try to wreck your day. Players will have a limited amount of time to contend with opposing players and marauding demons and to gather the most loot possible before time's up.

To get a sneak peek at these shiny new features, just head on past the cut and have a look at the update's official trailer.

[Source: gPotato press release]

Continue reading Allods Online's patch 3.0.2 bringing mentor system, new Astral space

MassivelyAllods Online's patch 3.0.2 bringing mentor system, new Astral space originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastralastral-spaceastrum-nivalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatomentormentor-systemmentoringmentoring-systemmentorspatchpatchestrailertrailersupdateupdatesvideovideosMon, 30 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Who was your MMO mentor -- and whom did you mentor?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-daily-grind-who-was-your-mmo-mentor-and-whom-did-you-men/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-daily-grind-who-was-your-mmo-mentor-and-whom-did-you-men/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-daily-grind-who-was-your-mmo-mentor-and-whom-did-you-men/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Daily Grind
No matter how many years we have played MMOs, we shouldn't forget that we all had to start somewhere. Yes, we were all noobies once, floundering through our first days in an online game and aggroing everything in sight without understanding what "aggro" meant. We all needed help and guidance, and some of us got it in the form of a friendly mentor.

This mentor showed us the ropes, taught us the slang, gave us resources so we weren't as vulnerable, and helped us get our game footing. Maybe it was a guild leader, a real-life friend or family member, or even a now-forgotten Gnome who took time out of her day to take pity on a greenhorn such as yourself.

Later on as you gained more experience in the ways of the MMO, you had opportunities to mentor others in return. You heard the pleas from the advice channel, roped in a buddy to play the game, or taught a significant other about your hobby. The student became the teacher, and you found yourself explaining that mass-aggroing 20 mobs at once was not beneficial.

So tell us: Who was your MMO mentor -- and whom did you mentor?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Who was your MMO mentor -- and whom did you mentor? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindguidancehelpmenteementormentoringnoobieopiniontdgthe-daily-grindWed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Editorial examines MMO mentoring, community dynamics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/editorial-examines-mmo-mentoring-community-dynamics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/editorial-examines-mmo-mentoring-community-dynamics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/editorial-examines-mmo-mentoring-community-dynamics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

RIFT - dungeon group
A wise man once described current-gen MMOs as "playing alone together." OK, truthfully I don't know who said that, nor do I know if he is particularly wise, but it resonated (and it's also applicable to a new editorial at Gamasutra that focuses on improving the community aspects of our favorite genre).

The piece looks at several current games -- including Final Fantasy XIV, RIFT, and Dungeons and Dragons Online -- and analyzes how they both succeed and fail at bringing players together. Particular attention is paid to mentoring systems, though EverQuest II's is omitted. What ultimately emerges from the lengthy read is a portrait of a challenging issue that has its roots in both operational and design considerations, and while the piece doesn't offer any particular solution, it does provide quite a lot of food for thought.

MassivelyEditorial examines MMO mentoring, community dynamics originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communityddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeditorialeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfantayffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playgroupingmentormentor-systemmentoringopinionplaying-alone-togetherriftWed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should more MMOs implement sidekicking?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/the-daily-grind-should-more-mmos-implement-sidekicking/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/the-daily-grind-should-more-mmos-implement-sidekicking/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/the-daily-grind-should-more-mmos-implement-sidekicking/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

City of Heroes
Back when Ultima Online was young, gamers didn't have to think about things like levels or content walls. Regardless of our skills or how long we'd been playing, we just joined up with our guildmates and went dungeoning. Throw enough people at a lich lord or a demon and that sucker's going down! But with the rise of level-based themepark games, the gap between time-rich and time-poor players has widened -- you aren't going to accomplish much if you're level 15 and your friends are all 50 and knee-deep in the endgame.

To help alleviate that problem, games like City of Heroes and EverQuest II pioneered "sidekicking" and "mentoring" systems, which allow highbies to partner up with lowbies, effectively boosting the noobies' levels and enabling their access to high-end content. Other games shun such systems, perhaps because they're difficult to balance and allow players to (at least temporarily) skip grindy level-based content that's meant to slow them down and keep them paying. What do you think -- should more MMOs implement sidekicking systems?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Should more MMOs implement sidekicking? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgcity-of-heroesCity-of-Villainscohcovcoxeq2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-iimentormentoringnewbienoobieopinionsidekicksidekickingtdgthe-daily-grindtime-poortime-richultima-onlineuoThu, 20 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-the-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-the-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-the-highlight/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

A Tale in the Desert
Readers of the ever-so-humble Game Archaeologist will recall that earlier this year I had the opportunity to exchange informative words with Dr. Richard Bartle, the creator of MUD. Since he was -- and is -- a highly opinionated designer, I asked him what he thought was the most innovative MMO from the last decade. The answer was short and succinct.

"A Tale in the Desert, he replied, then added: "Note that 'innovative' doesn't necessarily mean 'successful.'"

Right there is the crux of ATITD's unique position in the MMO industry. Instead of storming down a path well-traveled, it took a machete and made its own trail -- a trail down which few have followed. As Jef recently noted in Some Assembly Required, it is an "odd duck" of a game, skewing as far away from combat as possible to focus on two often-neglected aspects of MMOs: crafting and politics. Even though its population has pegged it as an eternally niche game, it's proven that constant fighting isn't the only thing that can draw an online community together.

This week we're going to look at some of the more unique features of this innovative yet diminutive MMO, which began telling its tale back in 2003.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desertandrew-tepperatitdcivilizationcraftingdemi-pharaohegenesisegyptfeaturedgrieferlawlegal-systemmentorpharaohpolitical-systemrichard-bartlesandboxsexismsnide-impact-dirtbagssociologysome-assembly-requiredstrangertellingthe-game-archaeologistTue, 13 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gates of Andaron update to feature mentoring, three faction PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/gates-of-andaron-update-to-feature-mentoring-three-faction-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/gates-of-andaron-update-to-feature-mentoring-three-faction-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/30/gates-of-andaron-update-to-feature-mentoring-three-faction-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Gates of Andaron - warrior
What's been going on with Gates of Andaron lately? Quite a lot, actually. A new press release from Gameforge has the details, and they include a third warring faction, a new mentoring system, and browser-based gameplay.

The new Rise of Gor update will debut in October, and the patch introduces the Gor faction to challenge the existing Valorian and Derion forces. Starting at level 80, Gor players may enter "large PvP battles, tipping the balance of power for or against the underdogs in a given battle."

The update isn't all endgame, though, as the newbie town of Tebekut is being recreated and will include "the most impressive graphics yet." The mentoring system will also ease new players into the game (and mentors even receive a payout when their charges reach level 90). Gates of Andaron is free-to-play, and you'll want to head to the official site to learn more and grab the client.

Gallery: Gates of Andaron dev tour

MassivelyGates of Andaron update to feature mentoring, three faction PvP originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browser-basedbrowser-clientf2pfantasyfree-to-playgallerygameforgegates-of-andaronmentormentoring-systempatchpress-releaserise-of-gorscreenshotsthird-factionthree-faction-pvpupdateTue, 30 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Mentors, schmentors]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/wings-over-atreia-mentors-schmentors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/wings-over-atreia-mentors-schmentors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/wings-over-atreia-mentors-schmentors/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ahhh, the unadulterated bliss of traipsing about the promised land of milk and honey -- otherwise known as Atreia post 2.5. The siren call of the Empyrean Crucible, the plink of new tokens in the cube, the sounds of laughter as Daevas play with their newest cuddly little companions... what's that, you say? It is not all fluffy kittens and rainbows and sparkle ponies? *Gasp* How can that be?!

Last week, we touched on a number of the additions and improvements brought to Aion with the latest patch, Empyrean Calling. However, after the novelty of the the new features had worn off a bit, the negative impact of some of these improvements became apparent; no matter how much is put into a system, there will always be pros and cons. Such can be said of the new mentoring system.

Even while adding more to the gameplay of some, this system is taking away from it for others. Some were heard to be cursing mentoring from day one. Additionally, I venture to raise some concerns about long-term consequences that may not be considered in the rush to take advantage of the short-term gains. Sure, there are the benefits, but nothing comes without a cost. Nothing.

So what could be so bad about mentoring in Aion? Slip past the cut and I'll fill you in.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Mentors, schmentors

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Mentors, schmentors originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.5-patchaionaion-gameEmpyrean-CallingfeaturedgroupingGrouping-mechanicsmentormentor-systemmentoringmentoring-systemnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpatch-2.5petsWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 06 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: First impressions of Empyrean Calling]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/wings-over-atreia-first-impressions-of-empyrean-calling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/wings-over-atreia-first-impressions-of-empyrean-calling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/wings-over-atreia-first-impressions-of-empyrean-calling/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

IT'S HERE!!11! OMZG *cue altered cheer emote*

The wait is over. Yes folks, Aion 2.5 Empyrean Calling has finally arrived on the North American servers. And just as they did when 2.0 (Assault on Balaurea) launched, Daevas have been flocking back to check out a shiny new Atreia. My friends list is lighting up with names I haven't seen in... well, longer than I can actually recall!

Only the second Aion update to warrant an actual name, this patch certainly brings some new goodies to the table. While not as extensive as its predecessor, it still offers substance enough for Daevas to really sink their teeth into. But after so much anticipation, did it live up to expectations? Does the fact that I have lost track of my week since last Wednesday say anything? From the new instances to the mentoring system, there is certainly more to do in-game, especially for those who have made it to level cap and endgame.

But don't just take my word for it! In honor of the release, NCsoft is offering another reactivation celebration: For 10 days (beginning at 11:00 a.m. EDT on Friday, June 3rd and running until the same time on Monday, June 13th) any player with an Aion account can log in and experience the changes for herself.

Can't wait until the 3rd for a taste? Barrel roll past the cut to check out my first impressions of Empyrean Calling.

Gallery: Aion: 2.5 Empyrean Calling

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: First impressions of Empyrean Calling

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: First impressions of Empyrean Calling originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.5-patchaionaion-crucibleaion-gameEmpyrean-Callingempyrean-crucibleesoterraceesoterrace-instancefeaturedgalleryinstancesMentormentoringmentoring-systemnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionnew-featurespatchpatch-2.5Mon, 30 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion patch 2.5 goes live, free trial program introduced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/aion-patch-2-5-goes-live-free-trial-program-introduced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/aion-patch-2-5-goes-live-free-trial-program-introduced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/aion-patch-2-5-goes-live-free-trial-program-introduced/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's time to spread your wings and take to the skies once again as Aion's patch 2.5 (which we were fortunate enough to personally explore not long ago) goes live today. The new update from NCsoft introduces two new areas of content: the new Esoterrace instance and the Empyrean Crucible. Players will be conquering both of these new areas in style with the addition of stunning graphical updates and new character customization options. New skills and PvP gear will help players to triumph over their enemies with finesse, while the new mentor system allows low-level players to get a helping hand from their elders.

If you're not a current Aion player but you're still dying to take these new features for a spin, then you're in luck -- NCsoft is celebrating the new update by introducing a free trial program. Players in the program will be able to jump into the world of Atreia for 10 days and experience 20 levels' worth of content, all for free. You can choose your side and join the battle at the Aion official site.

MassivelyAion patch 2.5 goes live, free trial program introduced originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-emyprean-callingaion-patchempyrean-callingempyrean-crucibleesoterraceesoterrace-instancefree-trialgraphical-updategraphics-updategraphics-upgradementormentor-systemncsoftpatchpatch-2.5trialWed, 25 May 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Aion mentoring guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/massively-exclusive-aion-mentoring-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/massively-exclusive-aion-mentoring-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/massively-exclusive-aion-mentoring-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Aion's 2.5 patch is on final approach, and in fact the new content and game systems made a smooth landing on NCsoft's test server just last week. One of those new systems allows high-level players to mentor their low-level counterparts, and today Massively has teamed with NCsoft to present you with an exclusive guide to the new functionality.

In a nutshell, low-level players will receive XP and unrestricted loot drops while the high-level mentor earns token rewards that go toward the purchase of high-end gear. One of the complaints consistently leveled against Aion over the first two years of its North American life has centered on the game's steep leveling curve. When coupled with the new quests introduced in previous updates, the mentoring system looks to provide a quick and easy path to the cap for young Daevas as well as an excuse for Aion geezers to wax nostalgic about how much harder it was way back when.

Join us after the cut for the skinny on Aion's mentoring mechanics.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Aion mentoring guide

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Aion mentoring guide originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 May 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.52.5-patchaionaion-2.5dev-diarydev-journalexclusivefantasyfeaturedmassively-exclusivementormentor-systemmentoring-systemncsoftMon, 16 May 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion 2.5 on PTS today, new class skills video released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/aion-2-5-on-pts-today-new-class-skills-video-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/aion-2-5-on-pts-today-new-class-skills-video-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/aion-2-5-on-pts-today-new-class-skills-video-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Aion's 2.5 patch is right around the corner, and today marks the update's official debut on NCsoft's North American player test server (PTS). The patch, otherwise known as Empyrean Calling, brings several new game features to the denizens of Atreia including a mentor system, expanded character customization options, a graphics engine update, new legion features, pet interaction, and new PvE instances.

To celebrate the milestone, NCsoft has released a new trailer that shows off some new class skills that are also coming with 2.5. Sixteen different skills, two for each of Aion's classes, are shown in action as well as via textual descriptions.

Have a look at the trailer after the cut, and don't forget to head to the PTS to get an early glimpse of all the updates.

Continue reading Aion 2.5 on PTS today, new class skills video released

MassivelyAion 2.5 on PTS today, new class skills video released originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.52.5-patchaioncharacter-customizationcustomizationempyrean-callingfantasymentormentor-systemmentoringmentorsncsoftnew-instancesnew-skillspet-interactionpetspvetrailervideoThu, 12 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you have an MMO mentor?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/the-daily-grind-do-you-have-an-mmo-mentor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/the-daily-grind-do-you-have-an-mmo-mentor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/the-daily-grind-do-you-have-an-mmo-mentor/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Many of us come to MMORPGs alone, seeking a temporary reprieve from the hustle and bustle of our offline lives via bits of escapist fantasy. Others come in groups or join groups upon arrival, the better to learn the various sub-systems of particular titles as well as engage in endgame pastimes like raiding, PvP, and economic domination.

Despite the increase in solo-friendly MMO fare in recent years, it is a rare gamer who rises to the top all by her lonesome, especially when it comes to competitive activities that demand a certain amount of knowledge, skill, or both.

Today's Daily Grind is all about your MMO mentors. Specifically, do you (or did you) have one? Are you one yourself? What, if anything, did your mentor teach you about MMOs that you might not have discovered on your own?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you have an MMO mentor? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 May 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-discussiongamer-discussionmentormentoringmentorsmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopiniontdgthe-daily-grindwaterdanceMon, 09 May 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Free level 90? Heck yeah!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/the-tattered-notebook-free-level-90-heck-yeah/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/the-tattered-notebook-free-level-90-heck-yeah/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/the-tattered-notebook-free-level-90-heck-yeah/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I'm a bit late to the party, but I want to throw my two coppers into the discussion on the level 90 winback suggestion that Senior Producer Dave "SmokeJumper" Georgeson made recently. In a recent forum thread, he tossed out the idea of EverQuest II's offering level-capped characters to new players who purchased Destiny of Velious. After a fairly robust discussion, he pulled it off the table, but I actually think it should still be an option.

Before you make fists of fury at the screen, hear me out! In this week's Tattered Notebook, I'm going to look at why this promotion is needed and suggest a way that it actually could work for everyone's benefit.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Free level 90? Heck yeah!

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Free level 90? Heck yeah! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 May 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-georgesondestiny-of-veliousdoveq2eq2xeqiiEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iifeaturedmentormentor-systemmentoringsmokejumpertattered-notebookwinbackMon, 02 May 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP announces EVE create-a-ship contest winners]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/ccp-announces-eve-create-a-ship-contest-winners/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/ccp-announces-eve-create-a-ship-contest-winners/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/ccp-announces-eve-create-a-ship-contest-winners/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The results are in from CCP's create-a-ship contest for EVE Online, and CCP Guard has posted the official results on the game's forum. A player by the name of Alexey M takes home the top prize for his Mentor Battlecruiser, as well as $900 and a gaggle of EVE-related swag (including a one-year sub to the game and one of CCP's swanky ship models).

Four runners-up didn't do too badly either. Each of them walked away with a cool $600 and an EVE prize pack. In addition to the winning Mentor, which you can ogle in the image above (and which will be making its way into the live game in short order), CCP has published all of the finalists' handiwork on its website.

MassivelyCCP announces EVE create-a-ship contest winners originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexey-mccpccp-gamesccp-guardcontestcontestscreate-a-shipcreate-a-ship-contesteveeve-contesteve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsmentormentor-battlecruisersandboxsci-fishipsspaceshipsThu, 14 Apr 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Player help system added to City of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/player-help-system-added-to-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/player-help-system-added-to-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/player-help-system-added-to-city-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you're looking for a game that's friendly to new players, you could do far worse than City of Heroes. After all, it's friendly to groups or solo players, has a plethora of powers and archetypes available for every playstyle, and offers a broad range of content for everyone. But it can also be intimidating, what with seven years of backlog. That's why among its many other features, Issue 20 included a brand-new player mentoring system to help new players find the help they need.

Players who log on for the first time since the patch launch will see a dialog box with three options -- "Helper," "Help Me!" or "Neither." The last category is an opt out, but choosing to be a helper gives you the temporary Helper title as well as a golden name. The brand-new Help Channel has also been added to the global chat channels, allowing players to ask for help and guidance from the City of Heroes community as needed. So go forth, enjoy the update, and know that help is just a "Help Me!" away!

MassivelyPlayer help system added to City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcoh-issue-20communitycovcoxhelp-servicesi20issue-20mentorncsoftnew-player-servicesnew-playersparagonparagon-studiospatchesplayer-helpplayer-mentorupdatesThu, 07 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Archetype discussion - the Mentor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/storyboard-archetype-discussion-the-mentor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/storyboard-archetype-discussion-the-mentor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/storyboard-archetype-discussion-the-mentor/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I keep expecting to run out of ideas for the various archetypes that I've been discussing, but more of them keep coming to me. The past six columns have all highlighted characters who are distinct from one another yet at the same time make compelling centers to their own stories. For roleplaying purposes, they move to the forefront of the ensemble cast when needed and slip to the middle the rest of the time.

But not everyone whose name is in the credits is necessarily going to be The Hero. Today's archetype probably won't be remembered as the one who accomplished any great deeds, unless you look at it by association. But she's still a vital character to any group, someone who provides an emotional and moral center amidst a horde of conflicting personalities -- even if no one might remember it. Today we're taking a look at the Mentor and all of the things that she brings to the table even from a more subtle role.

Continue reading Storyboard: Archetype discussion - the Mentor

MassivelyStoryboard: Archetype discussion - the Mentor originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypearchetype-discussionbackgroundbackstorycharacter-originscolumnexperiencefeaturedlorementormentorsmetagamingopinionroleplayingrpstoryboardFri, 11 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: Building a better costume]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/alter-ego-building-a-better-costume/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/alter-ego-building-a-better-costume/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/alter-ego-building-a-better-costume/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

In last week's Alter-Ego column, I went over some of the basics of creating a character as well as my own view on the costume creator. This, in turn, set off a small firestorm of remarks in the comments both for and against the way DC Universe Online's designers have handled costuming. One thing was made fairly clear to me -- there are lot of people out there who don't entirely understand just how costuming and stat-based gear in DC Universe Online actually work. While you do start off with a limited number of options in the creator for costuming choices, a great many open up once you actually start playing the game. As such, I wanted to take some time in this week's column to really dig into how gear and costuming works in the game. Hopefully, it will help to clear up some confusion for people who haven't had a chance to actually play the game as yet.

So if you're curious about how to build your super costume choices or how the nuts and bolts of stat gear work for heroes and villains, then join me behind the break for this week's edition of Alter-Ego!

Continue reading Alter-Ego: Building a better costume

MassivelyAlter-Ego: Building a better costume originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alter-egocosmeticcosmeticscostumecostumescostumingdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedgearMentorsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentstatsvideoSat, 22 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Priston Tale 2 adds a new region and a mentoring system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/priston-tale-2-adds-a-new-region-and-a-mentoring-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/priston-tale-2-adds-a-new-region-and-a-mentoring-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/priston-tale-2-adds-a-new-region-and-a-mentoring-system/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you're one of the souls inspired to step into Priston Tale 2 thanks to Beau's recent foray into the game, you picked a fine time to start playing. A large update has just hit the servers, featuring a brand-new area for players to explore. The Damned Burial Ground may be just a bit late for the Halloween season, but it would have fit in just fine as a haven for the restless bones of fallen soldiers and demons.

The game has also launched the brand-new Master and Apprentice system, a setup by which experienced players can get rewards for mentoring newer players about the fine points of the game. Experienced players get to earn previously unavailable in-game items, and new players get rewarded with the full knowledge and experience of a game veteran. The newest update has come with a small selection of new screens as well, available in the gallery below and showing off what Priston Tale 2's engine is capable of producing.

Gallery: Priston Tale 2 Demon Burial Grounds

MassivelyPriston Tale 2 adds a new region and a mentoring system originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgallerygamerkraftgraphicsmaster-and-apprenticementornew-regionspriston-tale-2pt2regionsscreenshotscreenshotsWed, 17 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest 2 leveling from 20 - 70 to become significantly faster]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/everquest-2-leveling-from-20-70-to-become-drastically-faster/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/everquest-2-leveling-from-20-70-to-become-drastically-faster/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/everquest-2-leveling-from-20-70-to-become-drastically-faster/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The designers of EverQuest II are planning to make radical alterations in Game Update 49 to the leveling curve for characters between levels 20 and 70. A post by Design Supervisor Noel Walling on the official forums details the changes. Whereas it currently takes on average around 164 hours for a player to advance from 20 to 70, it will soon only take around 100. To compensate for this change, Adept I spell drops will increase.

Walling says these changes are intended to "get new players into the game faster." They're also a response to a low number of people in those level ranges. 1 - 20 and 70 - 80 are unchanged, but experience gains in the mentoring system are getting a boost to encourage higher level players to help new folks and alts level up. The benefits scale based on level, but players who are mentoring will gain between 50% and 300% extra XP from combat.

This is an answer to a big problem in these types of games; they become top-heavy, and an insurmountable barrier to entry goes up. At this point, though, does it even make sense for it to take 100 hours to reach 70? Why not just 50? If it's not fun for 164 hours, it's probably not for 100 either, right?

MassivelyEverQuest 2 leveling from 20 - 70 to become significantly faster originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capeq2eq2-gu-49eqiieverquest-2everquest-iiexperienceforumsgame-update-49gu-49hourslevelinglevelsmentormentoringnoel-wallingsoeWed, 17 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XI to receive mentoring-esque Level Sync system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/final-fantasy-xi-announces-mentoring-esque-level-sync-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/final-fantasy-xi-announces-mentoring-esque-level-sync-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/27/final-fantasy-xi-announces-mentoring-esque-level-sync-system/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Square-Enix is taking another step towards making Final Fantasy XI a little bit more playable for the masses by implementing what it calls the "Level Sync" system. The feature resembles the mentoring systems found in EverQuest II or Age of Conan in that it allows higher level players to drop down to friends' levels and adventure with them while gaining experience.

In its announcement of this feature, Square-Enix went out of its way to emphasize that it has built in the system safeguards against abuse by powerlevelers and gold farmers. There are also some reasonable limitations intended to keep the game streamlined, fun, and balanced. For example, equipment-based stat bonuses will scale down with each level a player drops.

There are explicit details at the official Final Fantasy XI website about how experience gains and equipment scale. We approve of this addition (as if you needed us to); in fact, we wonder why certain other games still don't have it. Being able to play with friends regardless of their time commitment and experience is a big positive, and we can't even think of a substantial drawback.

[Via Allakhazam]

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XI to receive mentoring-esque Level Sync system originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conaneverquest-2everquest-iifeatureff11ffxifinal-fantasy-xilevel-syncmentormentoringplay-onlinesquare-enixsqueenixWed, 27 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Tateru Nino interviewed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/massivelys-tateru-nino-interviewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/massivelys-tateru-nino-interviewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/massivelys-tateru-nino-interviewed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tateru Nino, formerly writing for Second Life Insider, has been a Second Life resident since August of 2005. She is known for her compassionate work as a Mentor (in the days when that was still an available vocation), which made her so popular a personage that a Cult grew up around her!

SLOz, an Australian site devoted to Second Life, has put up its interview with Tateru, and it's a good one. Those of you new to SL can glean a lot of information about it by reading this, and a fair amount of insight into one of Massively's stable of bloggers. Give it a read and send Tat a nice comment!

MassivelyMassively's Tateru Nino interviewed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cult-of-tateruinterviewmassivelymentorsecond-lifeSLOztateru-ninoWed, 07 Nov 2007 10:15:00 EST