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[Uncharted Waters Online discounts Steam packages before a big patch docks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/uncharted-waters-online-discounts-steam-packages-before-a-big-pa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/uncharted-waters-online-discounts-steam-packages-before-a-big-pa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/uncharted-waters-online-discounts-steam-packages-before-a-big-pa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Logically speaking even a really cruddy ship would still be ship-shape.
Is your ship in Uncharted Waters Online something less than ship-shape? Perhaps you could put the wind back in your sails with one of the special item packs available for the game on Steam. In anticipation of the game's next major patch arriving on the 28th, Netmarble has lowered the prices on all three packs by 70%, allowing characters to leave port with big boosts for fewer of your hard-earned real money.

The Booster pack is down to just $1.49 and provides faster experience gain, faster ship movement, and the ability to revive fallen sailors away from a port. The Premium pack is only $2.99, offers even faster experience gain, and also sets up you with 200 million ducats (in-game currency) and possibly even a rare ship. Last but not least, the Sea Adventure pack is down to $11.99 and offers the best possible experience boost, 300 million ducats, and several exclusive items. So if you're looking to set sail, a little money now will help you find your fortune.

MassivelyUncharted Waters Online discounts Steam packages before a big patch docks originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booster-packsdealsdiscountdiscountsf2pfree-to-playitem-packsmicrotransactionsnetmarblepackspromotionssteamuncharted-waters-onlineuwoWed, 22 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/conquer-online-10th-anniversary-trailer-takes-the-cake/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/conquer-online-10th-anniversary-trailer-takes-the-cake/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/conquer-online-10th-anniversary-trailer-takes-the-cake/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Conquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake
Hitting the big 1-0 is certainly a cause for celebration. So how does Conquer Online top its free trip to China offered last year? With a trailer that offers a unique look at the last 10 years and turns attention towards the future. That, and a number of festivities lasting through mid-June that span events, bonuses, and gifts galore. Oh, did we mention another trip to China? This time the trip goes to the supreme champion of the first World Fighting League, a contest open to all new and veteran players spanning all 10 versions of CO.

Launched in 2003, the oriental fantasy game boasting plenty of kung-fu elements has continually added new content over the years, including pirates and more PvP-based activities. This year will see even more expansions, from a new character (the mysterious Kung Fu Master) to a new massive cross-server PvP battle, the Kingdom War. To accommodate new players, Conquer Online has opened two new servers and is giving away special Starter's Packs to aid the newcomers. Veterans have not been forgotten; they'll receive a gift when logging into their original servers.

Want a glimpse at what the future holds for Conquer Online? You'll have to get through the first half of the video to see the preview. Check it out after the cut.

[Source: TQ Digital press release]

Continue reading Conquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake

MassivelyConquer Online 10th anniversary trailer takes the cake originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10th-Anniversaryanniversary-giftsCOconquer-onlineeventsf2pfree-to-playfree-tripfree-trip-to-Chinafreemiummartial-artsmartial-arts-mmomicrotransactionmicrotransactionsNetDragonpremiumPvPtq-digitalWorld-Fighting-LeagueFri, 17 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Arcane Saga triggers its beta test]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/arcane-saga-triggers-its-beta-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/arcane-saga-triggers-its-beta-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/arcane-saga-triggers-its-beta-test/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Arcane Saga triggers beta test
The MMO formerly known as Prince, er, Prius Online has gone into beta in preparation for its relaunch. The newly titled Arcane Saga represents a reworking of Prius' old content to include new features and content.

Netmarble Head Project Manager Joe Kim invites you to check out the changes: "With the start of the beta phase today, players will finally get to experience for themselves all of the improvements we've made to the world of Prius over the past year."

Assuming all goes well in the beta, Arcane Saga is scheduled to launch in the next couple of months. In the meantime, check out our interview about the re-launching of this title.

[Source: Netmarble press release]

MassivelyArcane Saga triggers its beta test originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcane-sagabetaf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumindustryinterviewsjoe-kimmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnetmarblepremiumprius-onlinere-launchre-releaseWed, 08 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/not-so-massively-moba-patch-week-star-citizen-hits-9-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/not-so-massively-moba-patch-week-star-citizen-hits-9-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/not-so-massively-moba-patch-week-star-citizen-hits-9-million/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset
This week is packed with MOBA news as almost every major title released a new patch. Infinite Crisis introduced new champions Poison Ivy and Gaslight Catwoman and announced that the game's closed beta will start in two days' time on May 8th. SMITE introduced new Norse god Fenrir the Unbound, and League of Legends released a champion spotlight on new Ice Witch champion Lissandra. Dota 2 also released new hero Elder Titan based on the original DotA hero Tauren Chieftain, and Heroes of Newerth released several months of balance changes at once in its colossal version 3.1 update.

Star Citizen celebrated hitting $9 million US in its ongoing crowdfunding campaign, and to celebrate, developers controversially gave all current backers free lifetime insurance on their ships. The title's success has also spurred EVE Online developer CCP Games to show off its own virtual reality dogfighter called EVR that uses the upcoming Oculus Rift headset.

Diablo III's first anniversary is just over a week away; details of any celebrations haven't yet been released. Developers confirmed that the PlayStation 4 version will not be getting mouse and keyboard support and that the PC version won't be getting support for analog controllers. For those of you up for some oldschool dungeon-crawling, Diablo II also announced that its ladder will be reset on May 14th this week and all players will start the game fresh again.

Continue reading Not So Massively: MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset

MassivelyNot So Massively: MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 May 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbetabeta-testbeta-testingblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopccpccp-gameschris-robertscompetitive-gamingconsoled3defense-of-the-ancientsdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportselder-titanesportesportseveeve-onlineevrexploitf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgothic-fantasyhon-tourhontourice-witchinternet-spaceshipsladderladder-resetleagueleague-of-legendslissandralolmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmoculus-riftonline-multiplayeropinionpatch-1.0.8playstationplaystation-3playstation-4Playstation3premiumps4pvpriotriot-gamesroguelikeround-uprounduprpgsandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlinetauren-chieftaintestingtrailertrailersvideovideosvirtual-realitywitch-doctorMon, 06 May 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Greed Monger screenshots and video show off tropical climate area]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/greed-monger-screenshots-and-video-show-off-tropical-climate-are/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/greed-monger-screenshots-and-video-show-off-tropical-climate-are/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/greed-monger-screenshots-and-video-show-off-tropical-climate-are/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Greed Monger screenshots and video show off tropical climate area
Moving right along after tripling its Kickstarter funding goal back in November, the developers behind Greed Monger have been busy slowly bringing the crafting-centric game to life. A working day/night cycle is already implemented, and over the weekend a chunk of the tropical climate area was imported to the test server, allowing devs to finally meet up in the same space together. The character creation UI and finished models (with armor sets) will be heading in this week. The team is also currently working on avatar animation and making sure controls work.

Want to get a peek at how Greed Monger is coming along? Then check out the brief fly-through video of the tropics climate region after the break. Then head on over to the official site to see the snazzy new in-game screenshots.

Continue reading Greed Monger screenshots and video show off tropical climate area

MassivelyGreed Monger screenshots and video show off tropical climate area originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyenvironmentsf2pfree-to-playfreemiumgreed-mongergreed-monger-partnerskickstartermicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnew-screenshotsplayer-driven-economyplayer-economypremiumsandboxtropical-climatevideoMon, 29 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Wind Roundtable: NSFW edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/second-wind-roundtable-nsfw-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/second-wind-roundtable-nsfw-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/second-wind-roundtable-nsfw-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Yes, we know it's spelled
For this edition of the Second Wind Roundtable, I thought it'd be a funny little prank to coerce a couple of my colleagues into playing Scarlet Blade with me. I was wrong. I was so, so very wrong. We lost some good men in there, but those of us who survived to talk about it gathered 'round for some group therapy over hard whiskey and mind-bleach.

Coincidentally, we also transcribed it so that you can learn from our mistakes. Be warned, many screenshots below the cut are explicit, though some have been tastefully censored for the sake of all things holy and sacred. No, really, we are not kidding: This post is not safe for work/children/anyone with a sense of common decency. That being said, you can join us after the cut.

I'm so, so sorry.

Continue reading Second Wind Roundtable: NSFW edition

MassivelySecond Wind Roundtable: NSFW edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumi-dont-want-to-live-on-this-planet-anymoremicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnsfwopinionpost-launchpremiumre-reviewreviewroundtablescarlet-bladesecond-impressionssecond-looksecond-windsecond-wind-roundtabletranscriptupdated-impressionsFri, 19 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trailer shows off China's upcoming Monster Hunters Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/trailer-shows-off-chinas-upcoming-monster-hunters-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/trailer-shows-off-chinas-upcoming-monster-hunters-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/19/trailer-shows-off-chinas-upcoming-monster-hunters-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Trailer shows off China's upcoming Monster Hunters Online
If you've had the urge to slay dinosaurs, dragons, and even giant beavers, you'll have the chance -- if you live in China. The Monster Hunter franchise is expanding into the Chinese market with a free-to-play version called Monster Hunter Online. Along with the aforementioned giant bosses (and plenty of others), the MMO will add more weapons, monsters, and locales to the series.

Developed by Tencent Games and Capcom, Monster Hunter Online will be powered by CryEngine 3 instead of Capcom's own engine. How big of a difference does that make? Check out the trailer after the cut and see for yourself.

Continue reading Trailer shows off China's upcoming Monster Hunters Online

MassivelyTrailer shows off China's upcoming Monster Hunters Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CapcomChinaCryEngine-3f2pfree-to-playfreemiummicrotransactionmicrotransactionsMonster-HunterMonster-Hunter-OnlinepremiumTencentFri, 19 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Wind: Spiral Knights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/second-wind-spiral-knights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/second-wind-spiral-knights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/second-wind-spiral-knights/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Spiral Knights
There's something to be said for the rise of browser-based games. What once was an elephant graveyard of bad ideas, low-res graphics, and trite or incomplete game mechanics has now evolved into a veritable playground of new ideas and fun casual titles. Games like City of Steam and Drakensang Online continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in a browser window, delivering engaging experiences with depth and high fidelity.

Browser game represent some of the coolest technological innovations in the MMO niche. They also, often, represent the very worst in predatory monetization schemes and "pay-to-win" exploitation.

Spiral Knights does both. And it does both well.

Continue reading Second Wind: Spiral Knights

MassivelySecond Wind: Spiral Knights originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiummicrotransactionmicrotransactionspost-launchpremiumpuzzle-piratesre-reviewreviewsci-fantasysci-fisecond-impressionssecond-looksecond-windsegaspiral-knightssteamthree-ringsthree-rings-designupdated-impressionsThu, 18 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythology-inspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/mythology-inspired-the-lost-titans-launches-open-beta-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/mythology-inspired-the-lost-titans-launches-open-beta-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/mythology-inspired-the-lost-titans-launches-open-beta-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Mythologyinspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today
The Lost Titans, a free-to-play fantasy game inspired by real Egyptian, Greek, and Roman mythologies launches into open beta tonight with the creation of a brand-new Olympus server. At 10 p.m. EDT, doors open to a revamped beginners' area as well as new mounts, pets, and events. Players can test their luck by spinning Fortuna's Wheel for a chance at prizes or delve deeper into the Core of Aristos to avenge their Titan ruler Hyperion.

Open beta also brings new PvP features, including a dueling system and a battleground where players can mount up and face both bosses and other players simultaneously. For a sneak peek of the action, check out the images in the gallery below and the trailer after the break.

[Source: ZQGAME press release]

Gallery: The Lost Titans

Continue reading Mythology-inspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today

MassivelyMythology-inspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playfreemiumgalleriesgallerymicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmountsmythologypetspremiumpvpscreenshotscreenshotsThe-Lost-TitansvideozqgameThu, 18 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grimlands heralds Linux and Mac announcement with second video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grimlands-heralds-linux-and-mac-announcement-with-second-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grimlands-heralds-linux-and-mac-announcement-with-second-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grimlands-heralds-linux-and-mac-announcement-with-second-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

If the post-apocalyptic wastelands of Grimlands caught your eye but you didn't think you could play on Linux or Mac systems, think again; DRAGO Entertainment has just announced that the shooter will be developed on both platforms. And players needn't worry about which version they are playing from, as everyone will be on the same servers together. The studio doesn't intend to stop there either: DRAGO's Lucjan Mikociak added, "And there are even more versions planned down the road."

Along with this announcement, DRAGO has released the second installment of the three-part Making Of series. In the video, Wiktoryn Zerebecki details the importance of crafting and the player-driven economy and Krystian Kofin expounds on vehicles. Watch the full video after the break.

[Source: DRAGO press release]

Continue reading Grimlands heralds Linux and Mac announcement with second video

MassivelyGrimlands heralds Linux and Mac announcement with second video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrowdfundingDRAGODRAGO-entertainmentf2pfree-to-playfreemiumGrimlandsKickstarterKrystian-KofinLinuxLucjan-MikociakMacMac-OSMaking-Of-part-2Making-Of-videomicrotransactionmicrotransactionspalyer-driven-economypost-apocalypticpremiumPvPsci-fivehicklesWiktoryn-ZerebeckiFri, 12 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: How the mobile market is trying to change MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/mmobility-how-the-mobile-market-is-trying-to-change-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/mmobility-how-the-mobile-market-is-trying-to-change-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/mmobility-how-the-mobile-market-is-trying-to-change-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Real Racing 3 screenshot
My brother called me the other day to tell me that he had just beaten me in Real Racing 3, an EA title that has drawn some criticism for its use of microtransactions. I enjoyed the heck out of the game, and it seems that EA is not worried about the criticism thanks to the overall positive response to the title. I asked my brother about the in-game purchases and he didn't really know what I was talking about. It was only more evidence that the rest of the market -- especially the huge mobile market -- doesn't really appear to care about persistent worlds or immersive lore. The fact is that pseudo-MMOs or games that are barely on the edge of MMO are MMO enough for many people, even people like my brother, who is no stranger to MMO gaming and has spent years in and out of World of Warcraft raiding and leveling.

I was going to write about a game called Raft Pirates for this column, but when I started to look at it, I realized that it didn't quite seem like a "real" MMO, and so I asked the developer to define the game for me. The response I got back only added to my confusion about where the mobile market is going. So in today's MMObility, I want to continue the discussion I started last week, but this time I'll like to look at how the mobile market is keeping things muddy.

Continue reading MMObility: How the mobile market is trying to change MMOs

MassivelyMMObility: How the mobile market is trying to change MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddefining-mmosEAfeaturedMicrotransactionsmmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphoneraft-piratesreal-racing-3smartphoneWorld-of-WarcraftFri, 05 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2013: The MMO impact of the Webzen and Gala-Net merge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/gdc-2013-the-mmo-impact-of-the-webzen-and-gala-net-merge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/gdc-2013-the-mmo-impact-of-the-webzen-and-gala-net-merge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/gdc-2013-the-mmo-impact-of-the-webzen-and-gala-net-merge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

GDC 2013 Interview sheds light on Webzen and Gala merge
Acquisition. Though it sounds pretty benign on its own, when used in reference to one developer taking over another, the word can inspire fear in the hearts of gamers. Questions quickly arise about the future of titles that fall on the acquired side of the equation. How will the games and players be affected by the change? Will there even still be a game?

I sat down with Claas Wolter (European PR Manager) and Deanna Peter (Marketing/PR Associate) to discuss just this topic regarding the recent purchase of Gala-Net (the parent company of gPotato) by Webzen and how that acquisition will affect Allods Online, Age of Wulin, Terras Militaris, and the company's other MMORPGs.

Continue reading GDC 2013: The MMO impact of the Webzen and Gala-Net merge

MassivelyGDC 2013: The MMO impact of the Webzen and Gala-Net merge originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionage-of-wulinallodsallods-onlinearctic-combatasiaastrum-nivalchinachinesechinese-mmoclaas-wolterconconferencecontinent-of-the-ninth-sealconventiondeanna-petereventevent-coverageeventsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgala-netgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013gpotatogvginterviewinterviewskidnappingmail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesmartial-artsmassively-event-coveragemergermicrotransactionmicrotransactionsming-dynastymu-onlinepremiumpvpsandboxsevencoresnail-gamessnail-games-usaTerras-Militariswebzen.comwushuwuxiaWed, 03 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/massively-exclusive-new-code-electra-class-sizzles-in-elsword/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/massively-exclusive-new-code-electra-class-sizzles-in-elsword/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/massively-exclusive-new-code-electra-class-sizzles-in-elsword/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer
If you've wanted more sizzle in your Elsword gaming, you're in luck! Kill3rCombo has revealed Code Electra, the next class in its transformation series. Along with a whole new look, fans of Eve can revel in unleashing powerful electrical attacks and zapping enemies with devastating laser beams.

With the Code Electra class, the queen of a lost robotic race will unlock the El Spectrum ability, allowing her to alter her attacks by switching between multiple modes. Need to scatter the laser beam to hit more enemies? Can do. How about focus the beam for increased damage? Yup. This mode switching will affect all of the various skills available to Eve, offering players a multitude of strategic options.

Check out Eve's new look as Code Electra in the gallery below and watch her new abilities in action in the video after the break.

[Source: Kill3rCombo press release]

Gallery: Elsword Online

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Renaissance Heroes
A few months ago, when New Year's resolutions came around, I decided to take broad, sweeping strides outside of my comfort zone -- I decided to play more FPS games. Long have I lingered in the comforting bosom of tab targeting, cast bars, and kill-10-boars. So when Renaissance Heroes, a newly released free-to-play FPS, came to my attention, I thought I might have finally found an FPS game that's more my style, that style being "shoot people in the face with crossbows."

I was not disappointed.

Continue reading Ascots and crossbows: Hands-on with Renaissance Heroes

MassivelyAscots and crossbows: Hands-on with Renaissance Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfeaturedfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playfreemiumGamefusehands-onimpressionslivestreammatthew-lenehanmicrotransactionspreviewpreviewsrenaissance-heroesshooterstreamstreamingvideovideosWed, 27 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft
Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft is a brand-spankin'-new online collectible card game from Blizzard, announced just yesterday here at PAX East 2013. And since I love you guys soooo much, I took the time to stand in line to take a look for myself. It certainly had nothing to do with the fact that I flock to CCGs like a moth to flame. No sirree.

Of course, this isn't your traditional MMO, so it's difficult to write a traditional review, especially considering I was able to play only a single match (which I won by a landslide, thank you very much), so instead I'm just going to give y'all a rundown of how the game plays and let you draw your own conclusions. Shuffle your cards, cut your decks, and read on for the skinny on Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft.

Continue reading PAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft

MassivelyPAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbetabeta-testbeta-testingblizzardblizzard-entertainmentccgcollectible-card-gameconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhands-onhearthstonehearthstone-heroes-of-warcraftheroes-of-warcraftjoystiqmassively-event-coveragemicrotransactionmicrotransactionspaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopremiumpreviewpreviewstcgtestingtrading-card-gamewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 23 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2013: Hands-on with City of Steam]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-city-of-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-city-of-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-city-of-steam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- City of Steam
I don't know what it is about steam engines, brass goggles, and copious amounts of clockwork mechanisms that excites me so much, but the steampunk genre has a special place in my heart. With that in mind, it should be no surprise that when I discovered that Mechanist Games, the
studio behind upcoming F2P browser MMO City of Steam, was going to be at PAX East, I immediately claimed the assignment.

For the uninitiated, City of Steam is a title that mixes the traditional fantasy flavors of magic, elves, and goblins with steampunk staples of industrialism, clockwork automatons, and airships to create what is described as "industrial age fantasy in a fallen world." During my time at PAX East, I got to spend just under an hour exploring the world of City of Steam and chatting with the game's developers who were milling about the booth. It's a fairly ambitious title that's aiming to bring a high-quality, modern MMO experience to players' browsers, but will it run like clockwork or go up in a cloud of steam?

Continue reading PAX East 2013: Hands-on with City of Steam

MassivelyPAX East 2013: Hands-on with City of Steam originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-steamconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgoblinhands-onmassively-event-coveragemechanistmechanist-gamesmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewssci-fisteampunkSat, 23 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: Book of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/first-impressions-book-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/first-impressions-book-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/first-impressions-book-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

First Impressions Book of Heroes
Within the ever-changing landscape of MMOs, the mobile MMO is a peculiar beast. Not too often will you find any perfect storm of MMO features in one mobile title, but as players, we're instead forced to make do with a game that includes our favorite parts and pieces.

Book of Heroes is a mobile MMO that first launched for Apple devices in November of 2011 and on Android in March of 2012. The game's developer, Venan Entertainment, has most recently produced Chapter 3: Dragonmoor, which puts the game even closer to what one might want from a "true" MMO. It's not even close to being there quite yet, but if you like raiding and battling up the leaderboards with your friends, you might just enjoy this game.

Continue reading First Impressions: Book of Heroes

MassivelyFirst Impressions: Book of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappbook-of-heroesdroidf2pfeaturedFirst-Impressionsfree-to-playfreemiumhands-oniosmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmobilepremiumpreviewpreviewsvenanVenan-EntertainmentWed, 20 Mar 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The vampires of Moonlight Online: Global come out March 21st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/the-vampires-of-moonlight-online-global-come-out-march-21st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/the-vampires-of-moonlight-online-global-come-out-march-21st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/the-vampires-of-moonlight-online-global-come-out-march-21st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The vampires of Moonlight Online Global come out March 21
If you've got a thirst for a vampire-themed MMO, you're in luck. Starting at 9:30 p.m. EDT on March 21st, you can sink your teeth into Moonlight Online: Global, a new free-to-play game by IGG (which incidentally also made Angels Online). And if you just so happen to be a Twilight fan as well, you're in double-luck: The studio promises players the chance to create their own version of the cast to recreate and live the story themselves.

Can't wait until tomorrow? Then jump on over to the official site, where four different forum events are going on, each offering the chance for prizes such as a newbie gift pack in game, superior weapons, and points. You can try your hand at Lucky Treasure Box, Counting Numbers, Sign Up for Snowballs, and Screen Grab Characters.

[Source: IGG press release]

MassivelyThe vampires of Moonlight Online: Global come out March 21st originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playfreemiumIGGmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmoonlight-onlineMoonlight-Online-GlobalpremiumTwilightvampirevampiresWed, 20 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online dev blog goes behind-the-scenes of the Lemurian Invasion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/16/champions-online-dev-blog-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-lemurian/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Champions Online's Lemurian Invasion
Last week, Champions Online's Lemurian Invasion event hit the live servers, and since then players have been valiantly fighting to defend the world against the alien forces. But as the latest Champions devblog notes, "an invasion force like the Lemurians doesn't come out of nowhere." With that in mind, Cryptic has released a brand-new devblog that takes players behind the curtain for a look at the making of the Lemurian invasion. In the post, Champions Online's new Live Producer, Tom "Lord Gar" Edwards, takes players on a brief tour of the process behind creating a live event.

Edwards details all of the hard work that went into the Lemurian Invasion, from the event's initial conception to 3-D models, animations, and playtesting. But perhaps more importantly, he takes a few paragraphs to talk about the future: "[In] the first half 2013, [Cryptic's] plan is to release several story arcs of a similar scale to the Lemurian invasion." He adds that "each arc will have a lockbox, some smaller missions, and then a larger mission at the end." According to Edwards, each mission will " have its own themed rewards and new items [that will] sometimes focus on character improvements, and some on vehicles." Champions' next arc will involve "gladiatorial combat" and will focus on the aforementioned character improvements.

Edwards promises that more info is coming soon. Until then, how about heading over to the Champions Online devblog for all the tasty Lemurian Invasion details?

[Thanks to Matixzun for the tip!]

MassivelyChampions Online dev blog goes behind-the-scenes of the Lemurian Invasion originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-sceneschampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosdevblogdevblogseventeventsf2pfree-to-playfreemiumin-game-eventin-game-eventslemurian-invasionlive-eventlive-eventsmaking-ofmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpremiumpwesuperherosuperheroesSat, 16 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Do PLEX make EVE pay-to-win?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/eve-evolved-do-plex-make-eve-pay-to-win/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/eve-evolved-do-plex-make-eve-pay-to-win/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/eve-evolved-do-plex-make-eve-pay-to-win/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
Several years ago, the subscription model was king and the mere mention of an MMO selling in-game items for cash was almost enough to cause a virtual riot. RMT was the devil, and players who bought swords or spaceships for cash deserved nothing short of a permanent ban. The past decade of development has changed the MMO landscape and brought in a new generation of gamers with different attitudes. Today's players have grown up with and embraced ideas like the free-to-play business model, microtransaction shops, and perhaps even the idea of buying in-game advantages for cash.

In his latest Free for All column, Massively's Beau Hindman tackled the controversial issue of MMOs selling power for real cash, and his points about EVE Online sparked some pretty interesting discussion in the comments. The crux of the argument was that an EVE player can currently take out his wallet and buy his way into a bigger ship or even pick up a pre-trained veteran character. That's certainly true, but is that the same as buying an unfair advantage and does it necessarily make EVE pay-to-win?

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at why players find PLEX so much more palatable than direct item sales and ask whether the system fits the definition of pay-to-win.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Do PLEX make EVE pay-to-win?

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Do PLEX make EVE pay-to-win? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Georgeson interview reveals removal of F2P restrictions on class, race, and more in EQ, EQ II
What single action could unite all Norrathians in grand celebration? In the words of Mel Gibson's William Wallace: Freeeeeeeeeedoooooooom.

It's no secret that EverQuest and EverQuest II have had fairly restrictive free-to-play models, with severe limitations that unfortunately deterred some players from trying or sticking with the games. Although teased with a wide variety of races and classes, free (once called bronze) and silver players could choose from among only a few without dipping into their wallets. Other restrictions included limited bag slots, little to no shared bank access, and a very low cap on active quests.

But if those restrictions are what put you off, fire up that launchpad again because I've got good news for you: SOE has taken a giant eraser and wiped them right off of the free-to-play matrices. And now is a good time to get back into the games as the EverQuest franchise is set to commemorate its 14th anniversary with celebrations in both games.

In my interview with Dave Georgeson, the man at the helm of all things EQ, I scouted out the specifics of the F2P restrictions that will lift come the middle of next week. Georgeson also revealed some incoming updates for EQ as well as discussed the special events marking the anniversary that will kick off on March 16th. And you just know I tried to slip in a question or two about EQ Next.

Continue reading EverQuest, EverQuest II repeal F2P restrictions on class, race, and more

MassivelyEverQuest, EverQuest II repeal F2P restrictions on class, race, and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-georgesoneqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq1eq2eqiieqneverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiuminterviewinterviewsmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspremiumremoving-restrictionsrevamping-f2psoesonysony-online-entertainmentThu, 07 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Interview: Re-launching Prius Online as Arcane Saga]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-interview-re-launching-prius-online-as-arcane-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-interview-re-launching-prius-online-as-arcane-saga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/massively-interview-re-launching-prius-online-as-arcane-saga/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Arcane Saga Header
Prius Online, a free-to-play, fantasy MMO published by gPotato, launched in North America in 2011. Roughly a year later, the MMO was shut down. Now, another year later, the game's original developer is re-branding, re-visiting and re-launching Prius Online under a new moniker: Arcane Saga.

Curious about how, when, and why a company would choose to re-open a shuttered game, we sat down with Netmarble's Jon-Enée Merriex to ask. Merriex walked us through what it takes to restart a game, why good MMOs sometimes go by the wayside, and how his company plans to iterate and improve on the Prius Online experience that the title's original players enjoyed.

Continue reading Massively Interview: Re-launching Prius Online as Arcane Saga

MassivelyMassively Interview: Re-launching Prius Online as Arcane Saga originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcane-sagaf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgPotatoindustryinterviewinterviewsJon-Enée-Merriexjon-enee-merriexmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnetmarblepremiumprius-onlinere-launchre-releaseWed, 06 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[So EA isn't putting microtransactions in every game after all]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/so-ea-isnt-putting-microtransactions-in-every-game-after-all/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/so-ea-isnt-putting-microtransactions-in-every-game-after-all/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/so-ea-isnt-putting-microtransactions-in-every-game-after-all/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

So EA isn't putting microtransactions in every game after allRemember that one time when EA CFO Blake Jorgensen pissed off the entire internet (except for Beau) by intimating that the gaming giant would be building microtransactions into all of its upcoming games?

Well, forget that, because apparently that's not what he meant.

"I made a statement in the conference along the lines of 'we'll have microtransactions in our games' and the community read that to mean all our games," Jorgensen told Polygon. "And that's really not true. All of our mobile games will have microtransactions in them, because almost all of them are going to a world where they are play for free."

Jorgensen goes on to say that EA will likely be putting in-house credit card processing and download support into all of its titles, but that doesn't necessarily mean a mass conversion to the microtransaction model.

MassivelySo EA isn't putting microtransactions in every game after all originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blake-Jorgensenbusiness-modelseaElectronic-Artsf2pfree-to-playmicrotransactionsout-of-contextspinwhoopsWed, 06 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Conflict launches on Steam]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/star-conflict-launches-on-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/star-conflict-launches-on-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/star-conflict-launches-on-steam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Conflict launches on Steam
It's been a while since we've heard from Star Conflict, the free-to-play PvP-based space sim that entered beta last year. But it didn't completely fall off the face of the, uh, galaxy -- folks who want to take command of a battleship and seek fame and fortune in space can now access the game on Steam. In a setting 3,000 years after colonists left Earth, pilots in Star Conflict take part in an interplanetary skirmish as they vie for their piece of the pie in a remote corner of the galaxy called Sector 1337.

According to Steam, the game has full audio support for both English and Russian and offers three different DLC packs starting at $14.99. Star Conflict can be played on PC or Mac.

[Thanks to Bartillo for the tip!]

MassivelyStar Conflict launches on Steam originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Firefall Copacabana
As any fan of my streams can tell you, I am not awesome at video games. So when Massively asked me to take a look at Firefall, a twitch-heavy, free-to-play shooter developed by Red 5 Studios, it was only with trepidation that I accepted. Could I really find happiness in a world that relied on reflexes and skill more than clever spell rotations? Or would my incompetence make the game so frustrating that I would end up smashing my keyboard with my face?

After procrastinating for days and hoping that the project would vanish into the night (beta goblins or something), I finally sat down to check the game out. What I discovered is that Firefall is much more than a shooter; it is a vibrant universe packed with fun things to do, intriguing content to explore, and enough character customization to please even the most ardent of tweakers.

Gallery: Firefall battleframe design

Continue reading Bugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE

MassivelyBugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingf2pfeaturedfirefallfpsfree-to-playfreemiumgalleriesgalleryhands-onmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmmo-shooterpremiumpreviewpreviewspvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsshootertestingthird-person-shooterwarFri, 01 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online spotlights ships for players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/star-trek-online-spotlights-ships-for-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/star-trek-online-spotlights-ships-for-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/star-trek-online-spotlights-ships-for-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

There are two types of people: those who see the Ambassador class as an ugly and ungainly fusion of Constitution and Galaxy ships, and those who like ugly ships.
Space -- the final frontier. These are the voyages of the USS Why-In-The-World-Are-You-Flying-That-For-Starfleet. The name's a bit cumbersome, but considering the sheer number of different ships you can pilot in Star Trek Online, we think it's rather apropos. Then again, one look at some of the machines on display in the game's newest spotlight video and it's difficult to feel all that bad about explaining why you're flying a ship that belongs to your faction's sworn enemies.

The spotlight highlights some of the new ships from lockboxes, ships available from Fleet projects, and those available for direct purchase from the game's microtransaction store. It also shows off the ships in space combat because while scanning a planet for life is all well and good, it's not terribly exciting to watch. Take a look at the full video just past the break, and consider whether one of these ships might make your trek across the stars a bit more stylish.

Continue reading Star Trek Online spotlights ships for players

MassivelyStar Trek Online spotlights ships for players originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosf2pfleet-projectsfleetsfree-to-playlockboxesmicrotransactionsnewsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewspwesci-fiship-classesship-typesshipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestovideovideosFri, 22 Feb 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Path of Exile server upgrades, Dota 2 broadcasters turn to crowdfunding]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/not-so-massively-path-of-exile-server-upgrades-dota-2-broadcas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/not-so-massively-path-of-exile-server-upgrades-dota-2-broadcas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/not-so-massively-path-of-exile-server-upgrades-dota-2-broadcas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Path of Exile continued upgrading its servers to cope with the increasing load of new players following its open beta release, closing the servers for three hours this week to add several new database servers. Massively exclusively revealed Blacklight: Retribution's new Safehold and metro maps, and Firefall developer Red 5 Studios explained its development plans for the next quarter.

Rise of Immortals released a spotlight video on its new long-range mage immortal Undine, while Guardians of Middle-Earth showed off its latest two DLC characters Radagast the Brown Wizard and Glóin, father of Gimli.

League of Legends made some balance changes to its Honor system, which rewards players for being nice to each other. Riot also talked to some of Season 3's newest competitive players about what being a professional gamer means to them. Dota 2 finally got its long-awaited team matchmaking system this week, and community broadcaster Beyond The Summit launched a crowdfunding campaign to pay for full-time tournament broadcasting.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Path of Exile server upgrades, Dota 2 broadcasters turn to crowdfunding

MassivelyNot So Massively: Path of Exile server upgrades, Dota 2 broadcasters turn to crowdfunding originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoantisocial-behaviorbattle-for-graxiabeyond-the-summitblacklightblacklight-retributionbroadcastersbroadcastingcompetitive-gamingconsolediablodotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgimligloingraxiagrinding-geargrinding-gear-gameshonorhonor-systemleague-of-legendslollord-of-the-ringslotrmatchmakingmetromicrotransactionsmiddle-earthmmofpsmobamonolithmonolith-studiosnewsnot-so-massivelynsmpath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesplaystation-networkpoeps3psnpvppweradagastred-5-studiosretributionriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uproundupSafeholdserverserver-downtimeserversteam-matchmakingtournamenttournamentsundinevalvevideowarner-brosxboxxbox-360xbox-livexbox360Mon, 11 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Interview: TERA's Patrick Sun on free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/massively-interview-tera-s-patrick-sun-on-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/massively-interview-tera-s-patrick-sun-on-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/massively-interview-tera-s-patrick-sun-on-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA Combat
Action-MMO TERA officially went free-to-play last week, and with the transition came a number of questions regarding payment tiers, transition plans, and En Masse's vision for the future of the game. Will TERA turn into a "pay-to-win" graveyard, or will it be another shining example of how to do free-to-play just right?

We sat down with associate producer Patrick Sun to find out.

Continue reading Massively Interview: TERA's Patrick Sun on free-to-play

MassivelyMassively Interview: TERA's Patrick Sun on free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiuminterviewinterviewsmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspatrick-sunpremiumteraMon, 11 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Wind: Taking another look at TERA]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/second-wind-taking-another-look-at-tera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/second-wind-taking-another-look-at-tera/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/second-wind-taking-another-look-at-tera/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA Header
I am beautiful. Seriously, I'm the best-looking game character that has ever pretended to live. Not only am I gorgeous, I'm lethal. With my massive lance, heavy shield, and ridiculously tight dress, I can make short work of pretty much any foe with the stones to come at me. I am as dangerous as I am attractive, and that is saying quite a bit.

This is TERA. Launched in the west by En Masse Entertainment back in May, the fantasy MMO promised gorgeous graphics, fast-paced action combat and a different way to experience a now-familiar formula. Lured in by pretty trailers and compelling class descriptions, I picked up the collector's edition of the game just before release. I played for a few weeks, streamed it a couple of times, and promptly forgot it existed. When my initial 30 days expired, I never subscribed for more.

But now TERA is going free-to-play. And since En Masse was kind enough to give me (and everyone else) a couple of free weeks of playtime before the F2P transition, I figured now was as good a time as any to revisit the title and see if removing my wallet from the equation would be enough to keep me engaged.

The answer? Perhaps.

Gallery: TERA PAX 2012

Continue reading Second Wind: Taking another look at TERA

MassivelySecond Wind: Taking another look at TERA originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhands-onmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspost-launchpremiumPrettyre-reviewroundtablesecond-impressionssecond-looksecond-windteratera-freetranscriptupdated-impressionsFri, 25 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Interview: Piranha Games' Russ Bullock talks MechWarrior Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/massively-interview-piranha-games-russ-bullock-talks-mechwarri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/massively-interview-piranha-games-russ-bullock-talks-mechwarri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/massively-interview-piranha-games-russ-bullock-talks-mechwarri/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Death's Knell
Is there anything more fun than massive suits of mechanical armor smashing into one another and firing lasers all over the place? MechWarrior Online, the free-to-play MMO-like set in the MechWarrior universe and developed by Piranha Games, would argue that the answer to that question is pretty obvious.

Piranha has just today announced the addition of a new Command Hero Mech, christened Death's Knell. The mech is tiny by MechWarrior standards, weighing in at only 25 tons, but it packs four powerful lasers on each arm and is quite fast to boot. Piranha also confirmed the addition of the familiar Bitching Betty startup sequence, which should give longtime MechWarrior fans a jolt of nostalgia straight through the eardrums.

We sat down with Russ Bullock, president of Piranha Games, to talk mechs, MMOs, and the future of MechWarrior Online. Check out the full interview and a video of Death's Knell in action after the break.

Continue reading Massively Interview: Piranha Games' Russ Bullock talks MechWarrior Online

MassivelyMassively Interview: Piranha Games' Russ Bullock talks MechWarrior Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiuminterviewinterviewsmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmwopiranhapiranha-gamespremiumsci-fitrailertrailersvideovideosWed, 23 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard 'actively working' on All-Stars MOBA]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/blizzard-all-stars-moba-reappears-on-radar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/blizzard-all-stars-moba-reappears-on-radar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/blizzard-all-stars-moba-reappears-on-radar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Blizzard AllStars MOBA reappears on radar
Last spring there was a brouhaha over the name DotA that was ultimately settled with Valve keeping the four-letter moniker and Blizzard changing its upcoming MOBA to Blizzard All-Stars. But after that, the newly rechristened game seemingly fell off the radar. Even the official website only offers the tease "coming soonish." Despite the lack of information, however, the game is still being developed.

A recent statement by StarCraft II's production director Chris Sigaty notes that the studio hasn't forgotten about Blizzard All-Stars, but is focusing on its free-to-play business model. "We're actively working on it," Sigaty said. "That I can confirm. A lot of the stuff that's remaining right now that we need to focus on are the systems necessary to pull off a game with a different business model than StarCraft II."

MassivelyBlizzard 'actively working' on All-Stars MOBA originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activision-BlizzardBlizzardBlizzard-All_starsBlizzard-DotAbusiness-modelsChris-Sigatyf2pfree-to-playfreemiummicrotransactionmicrotransactionspayment-modelpayment-modelspremiumstarcraft-iiWed, 23 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GamesCampus closing doors on Scarlet Legacy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/gamescampus-closing-doors-on-scarlet-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/gamescampus-closing-doors-on-scarlet-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/gamescampus-closing-doors-on-scarlet-legacy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

GamesCampus closing doors on Scarlet Legacy
While last year certainly had its share of MMO closures, it didn't take long for a game to hit the chopping block in 2013. Scarlet Legacy, the free-to-play game that started its run with an open beta back in August 2011, will head into the sunset on February 12th. While the server will remain open until this date for players, the cash shop has already closed down.

GamesCampus thanks players for all their support and noted that while it cannot offer compensation for already purchased items, it is looking into giving folks Campus Credit or bonus packages to other GamesCampus games.

MassivelyGamesCampus closing doors on Scarlet Legacy originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jan 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closingclosuref2pfree-to-playfreemiumGamesCampusmicrotransactionmicrotransactionspremiumscarlet-legacysunsettingThu, 17 Jan 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest answers questions about the addition of Krono]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/everquest-answers-questions-about-the-addition-of-krono/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/everquest-answers-questions-about-the-addition-of-krono/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/everquest-answers-questions-about-the-addition-of-krono/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Trigger warning.
If you play EverQuest but not the sequel, EverQuest II feels like the younger sibling that gets everything it wants. A new graphical engine, more expansions, more developer time, it's not fair. And then the game gets the option for players to buy game time and sell it for real currency in the game, which is just so unfair. But if you buy into this hypothetical pseudo-sibling rivalry, good news -- the Krono option is coming to classic EverQuest in the near future.

An official FAQ has been posted explaining how Krono works and how players can use them to purchase time with in-game money or vice versa. The FAQ also clarifies that purchased Krono works in both EverQuest II and the original EverQuest so long as you purchase one directly; if you trade it to another player it's tied to the game where you made the trade. Take a look at the full FAQ and start enjoying the freedom to pay with your game subscription through in-game farming.

MassivelyEverQuest answers questions about the addition of Krono originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq1everquestf2pfantasyfaqfree-to-playfrequently-asked-questionskronomicrotransactionsplexsoesonysony-online-entertainmentsubscriptionsubscription-timeThu, 10 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ragnarok Online 2 open beta denied to most of the world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/ragnarok-online-2-open-beta-denied-to-most-of-the-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/ragnarok-online-2-open-beta-denied-to-most-of-the-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/02/ragnarok-online-2-open-beta-denied-to-most-of-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ragnarok Online 2 open beta unavailable outside of select Asian countries
Do you have your heart set on trying out the betalicious Ragnarok Online 2? Well, unless you are reading this from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, or Vietnam, you're fresh out of luck.

While Ragnarok Online 2's open beta begins tomorrow, Asiasoft posted the news that it will be unavailable outside of those four countries "due to [its] license agreement with the game's developer, Gravity Co., Ltd."

The open beta was previously scheduled to begin on December 27th of last year but apparently ran into unspecified problems.

[Thanks to Anthony and Ville for the tip!]

MassivelyRagnarok Online 2 open beta denied to most of the world originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AsiasoftAsiasoft-Onlinebetabeta-testbeta-testingclosed-betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playfreemiumgravitymicrotransactionmicrotransactionspremiumRagnarok-2Ragnarok-Online-2Ragnarok-Online-2-Legend-of-the-SecondRagnarok-Online-IIWed, 02 Jan 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ragnarok Online 2 open beta begins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/ragnarok-online-2-open-beta-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/ragnarok-online-2-open-beta-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/ragnarok-online-2-open-beta-begins/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ragnarok Online 2 open beta begins
Ragnarok Online 2 crosses the open beta threshold for its English version today, as any and all players are welcome to give this MMO sequel a spin. The game is a reworking of the first title, and brings back the job system, professions, the card system, and pets. There's also a way to set up your character to act as a player vendor while you're offline.

The open beta may be undergoing hiccups right now, as the official website is down and Wikipedia is reporting "connection problems." We'll be keeping an eye on its progress for those of you interested in this title!

MassivelyRagnarok Online 2 open beta begins originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AsiasoftAsiasoft-Onlinebetabeta-testbeta-testingclosed-betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playfreemiumgravitymicrotransactionmicrotransactionspremiumRagnarok-2Ragnarok-Online-2Ragnarok-Online-2-Legend-of-the-SecondRagnarok-Online-IIThu, 27 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ragnarok Online 2 closed beta ended today, switches to open December 27th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/ragnarok-online-2-closed-beta-ended-today-switches-to-open-dece/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/ragnarok-online-2-closed-beta-ended-today-switches-to-open-dece/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/ragnarok-online-2-closed-beta-ended-today-switches-to-open-dece/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ragnarok Online 2 closed beta ended today, switches to open December 27th
For the past six days, Ragnarok Online 2's closed beta testers have been participating in what online game operator Asiasoft Online called a "wildly successful" CBT run. As of today, the closed beta is kaput; the studio has moved on to fixing the technical issues and squashing the in-game bugs folks encountered during that test in preparation for the upcoming open beta period. Starting on December 27th, players will be able to access the open beta, and shortly thereafter, the cash shop will be introduced.

In a press release issued today, Sherman Tan, Chairman of Aisiasoft Online, expressed gratitude for the response and thanked all of the participating testers who contributed to improving the game. He stated, "The Ragnarok Online 2 [beta] launch has been one of our biggest successes and we are very humbled and encouraged by the overwhelming response from players who filled our game servers during the CBT period."

To get in the open beta, visit the official site to download the free client.

[Source: Asiasoft Online press release]

MassivelyRagnarok Online 2 closed beta ended today, switches to open December 27th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AsiasoftAsiasoft-Onlinebetabeta-testbeta-testingclosed-betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playfreemiumgravitymicrotransactionmicrotransactionspremiumRagnarok-2Ragnarok-Online-2Ragnarok-Online-2-Legend-of-the-SecondRagnarok-Online-IISherman-TantestingThu, 13 Dec 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World officially abolishes subscriptions [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/the-secret-world-officially-abolishes-subscriptions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/the-secret-world-officially-abolishes-subscriptions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/the-secret-world-officially-abolishes-subscriptions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World abolishes subscriptions no, really!
Joel Bylos' first End of Days video log hinted at it (if you call busting into a conference room hinting!), and now it is official: The Secret World is permanently removing subscriptions from the equation. Some of you are undoubtedly exclaiming, "I knew it!" but all of you may be wondering what that means for you. Here's the scoop.

Funcom's new payment model for TSW is buy-to-play with three membership tiers: free, member, and grand master. After purchasing the game itself, folks can play indefinitely without any additional fees, or they can opt to purchase monthly memberships that provide special bonuses. Players who already have or purchase the grandmaster package maintain their lifetime membership and receive additional bonuses.

Gamers will be glad to know that the conversion will not introduce any restrictions to the game's current content; free players will have full access to every aspect of issues #1 - 4, including weapons, dungeons, and missions. But what of future content? TSW will continue to receive regular patches of free content, just not at the volume of previous issues. More content will be also available periodically through downloadable content packs (DLCs) in the in-game store. Issue #5 DLC, coming soon, will be free to all accounts registered as of the end of December.

Players opting to maintain a membership will get an XP bonus item, 1,200 bonus points monthly, a special monthly gift, and a 10% discount in the in-game store. Grand masters will receive all that plus another 10% off store purchases. Both members and grand masters can use their free monthly bonus points to purchase DLC.

Folks who purchased the initiate pack previously will be reimbursed 1800 bonus points, and all remaining subscription time will be converted to membership time. For more information, you can check out the official FAQ. And catch the new trailer after the break!

[Updated with Pay Once, Play Forever trailer]

[Source: Funcom press release]

Continue reading The Secret World officially abolishes subscriptions [Updated]

MassivelyThe Secret World officially abolishes subscriptions [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 06:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>B2Pbuy-to-playf2pfactionfantasyfree-to-playfree-to-play-conversionfreemiumfuncomgrandmasterhorrorlifetime-membershipmembership-bonusesmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmythologypayment-modelpremiumsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtrailertswwideoWed, 12 Dec 2012 06:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: I demand to pay more for this!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/the-soapbox-i-demand-to-pay-more-for-this/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/the-soapbox-i-demand-to-pay-more-for-this/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/the-soapbox-i-demand-to-pay-more-for-this/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Buy me, my friends!
Champions Online launched amidst a bunch of controversy. Admittedly, this was back in a time when we as a community had a much lower bar for controversy, but still, there were accusations and recriminations flying around like, well, superheroes. One of the chief complaints was that the game had a subscription fee, but it also had a cash shop right from launch. Scandalous!

These days we don't blink too much at this sort of thing. Pretty much every game in the world has a cash shop now, and the rare exceptions are games that try to pretend it's something else. But there are still a lot of people who object to the idea, who would much rather have a subscription or nothing or see everything from the cash shop free to subscribers.

I am not one of those people. In fact, I'm happy when a game goes into the free model or just opens up a cash shop of any stripe. The way I see it, there are some definite upsides to having a cash shop.

Continue reading The Soapbox: I demand to pay more for this!

MassivelyThe Soapbox: I demand to pay more for this! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelscash-shopcash-shopseditorialfeaturedfinancialmicrotransactionsmoneyop-edopinionprofitspromotionsrantrantssalesshut-up-and-take-my-moneysoapboxthe-soapboxTue, 04 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online explains the nuances of dilithium]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/star-trek-online-explains-the-nuances-of-dilithium/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/star-trek-online-explains-the-nuances-of-dilithium/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/star-trek-online-explains-the-nuances-of-dilithium/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Who's down with dilithium? Every last homie who wants a spaceship above the default.
Dilithium -- how can Star Trek Online explain it? Perhaps the development team can take and frame-by-frame it to have players mine, refine, and spend it. And that's just what's been done in a new development diary explaining to new players and returning players how dilithium works. It's the game's universal currency, in short, but it also serves to bridge the gap between having plenty of real money and having lots of in-game money with less real money.

Dilithium is rewarded to players through several means, but it's awarded as unrefined ore. The refining process is slow, with players having a soft limit of about 8000 refined dilithium a week (veteran and subscription players can refine slightly more). You can also trade it for the game's microtransaction currency on a live market. Once you have it, you can use it to buy new ships, rare crafting items, special gear, and certain Duty Officers. The full guide should answer any lingering questions you have about the currency, although it does not ask at any point if the players are down with dilithium.

MassivelyStar Trek Online explains the nuances of dilithium originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studioscurrencycurrency-exchangedilithiumf2pfree-to-playguidein-game-moneymicrotransactionsmoneyperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesalessci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 27 Nov 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Yup, you're dead: Hands-on with Wizardry Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/yup-youre-dead-hands-on-with-wizardry-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/yup-youre-dead-hands-on-with-wizardry-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/yup-youre-dead-hands-on-with-wizardry-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Wizardry Online
Wizardry Online, an upcoming fantasy-based MMO from Sony Online Entertainment, is a "hardcore" MMO. I know this because the word "hardcore" shows up on the game's official beta sign-up page no fewer than three times (once in all caps). The website promises that thanks to Wizardry Online's "insane difficulty," my "greatest challenge" will be found somewhere in its universe. Perhaps in one of those "complex mazes" packed with "unrelenting mobs."

Now, I'm not one to back down from a challenge. In fact, I love a good fight, especially if it can potentially end in my suffering an embarrassing and expensive defeat. So I hopped into the brutal world of Wizardry Online to tempt fate and see just what this game was all about.

As it turns out, it's about dungeons, permadeath, and missed opportunities to make either worthwhile.

Gallery: Wizardry Online

Continue reading Yup, you're dead: Hands-on with Wizardry Online

MassivelyYup, you're dead: Hands-on with Wizardry Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingdungeonsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgamepothands-onhardcoremicrotransactionmicrotransactionsopen-pvppermadeathpkplayer-killingpremiumpreviewpreviewspvpsir-techsoesony-online-entertainmenttestingwizardrywizardry-onlineTue, 27 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST