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[MMO sandbox TUG launches its Kickstarter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/mmo-sandbox-tug-launches-its-kickstarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/mmo-sandbox-tug-launches-its-kickstarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/mmo-sandbox-tug-launches-its-kickstarter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

MMO sandbox TUG launches on Kickstarter
If you're the sort of sandbox aficionado who's more into crafting and exploration than griefing, then this post is for you. Brand-new to Kickstarter today is an MMO called, well, The Untitled Game, or TUG for short. Inspired by the likes of Minecraft, Zelda, and EVE Online, TUG promises an immersion-driven, "massive procedurally generated world to explore" along with such features as combat, crafting, building, an organic UI, modding tools, hidden civilizations, animal taming, "logic engineering," day/season cycles, realistic weights, support for roleplayers, and no DRM. Like rival Shroud of the Avatar, TUG will be playable solo, on a private server, and on the official MMO server.

Developer Nerd Kingdom styles itself as "a collective of scientists, researchers, technologists, economists, content creators, artists, modders, and gamers from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds" with a "deep passion for the nerdery of academic sciences, art, and technology," but in spite of its academic background, the studio promises a survival sandbox/multiplayer RPG hybrid without all the associated spreadsheets and number-crunching.

The game is targeting 2015 for launch with an alpha this coming July; the digital download edition of the game can be secured for as little as 10 bucks on Kickstarter now. See whether the videos behind the break don't convince you.

Continue reading MMO sandbox TUG launches its Kickstarter

MassivelyMMO sandbox TUG launches its Kickstarter originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingcrowdfundingeve-onlinekickstarterminecraftnerd-kingdomprocedural-generationprocedurally-generatedsandboxthe-untitled-gametrailertrailerstugvideovideosWed, 01 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Building the perfect fortress in Camelot Unchained [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/building-the-perfect-fortress-in-camelot-unchained/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/building-the-perfect-fortress-in-camelot-unchained/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/building-the-perfect-fortress-in-camelot-unchained/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Camelot Unchained's housing, building, and mining revealed
The Camelot Unchained team has just released a new video dev blog for Kickstarter backers outlining some fairly ambitious plans for mining and construction in the upcoming PvE-free sandbox. The system will involve combinations of custom and prefab cells in which players so inclined can build up the empires and trading posts and fortifications of their dreams. And in a nod to games like Minecraft, the construction mechanics are built on a foundation of supplies procured through co-op mining gameplay.

Ahead of the reveal, we asked City State Entertainment's Mark Jacobs a few questions about the systems he's proposing, from the influence of Mojang's popular sandbox to whether mining will become my new part-time job. Read on for the complete interview!

[Update: As of Monday, CSE has also released the document form of the housing plans.]

Continue reading Building the perfect fortress in Camelot Unchained [Updated]

MassivelyBuilding the perfect fortress in Camelot Unchained [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueprintsbuildersbuildingcamelotcamelot-unchainedcellscity-statecity-state-entertainmentconstructioncsefeaturedgriefinghousinginterviewinterviewsmaintenancemark-jacobsmineminecraftminesminingprefabpvprentrvrscuttlingstructuresupkeepSat, 20 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: The consequences of kids at conventions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/mmo-family-the-consequences-of-kids-at-conventions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/mmo-family-the-consequences-of-kids-at-conventions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/mmo-family-the-consequences-of-kids-at-conventions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

MMO Family The consequences of kids at conventions
As I wound down my time at PAX East recently, I couldn't help but notice how different this convention was compared to when I went a couple of years ago. Yes, the exhibition floor was bigger, and there were many more in attendance, but the overall feel was different as well, and part of that was the increased presence of children.

We normally don't think of a video game convention as a family activity, and yet the fact that so many adults brought their children is telling. And whether you agree with it or not, there's something to be learned from the presence of kids at game conventions.

Continue reading MMO Family: The consequences of kids at conventions

MassivelyMMO Family: The consequences of kids at conventions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmosconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpofamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-and-game-conventionskids-gameslegomassively-event-coverageminecraftmmo-familyopinionpaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-exposoe-liveWed, 03 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: What exactly is a kid-friendly MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/mmo-family-what-exactly-is-a-kid-friendly-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/mmo-family-what-exactly-is-a-kid-friendly-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/mmo-family-what-exactly-is-a-kid-friendly-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

MMO Family What exactly is a kidfriendly MMO
Recently, Massively's Jef Reahard seemed to revisit his inner-child with his Why I Play article on Clone Wars Adventures and a Daily Grind of a similar topic. He summed up perfectly why CWA, a kid-friendly MMO, is a lot of fun for grown-ups too. There are actually many MMOs that are marketed toward a younger audience but are fun and challenging enough to entertain adults. Meanwhile, there are plenty of kids who have no problem holding their own in "grown-up" MMOs.

So what exactly makes an MMO kid-friendly? It might not be as easy to define as we think.

Continue reading MMO Family: What exactly is a kid-friendly MMO?

MassivelyMMO Family: What exactly is a kid-friendly MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmosclone-wars-adventuresfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedflyffkid-friendlykidskids-gamesminecraftmmo-familyopinionpirate101robloxswtorwizard101Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Failure isn't just an option; it's a requirement]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/mmo-family-failure-isnt-just-an-option-its-a-requirement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/mmo-family-failure-isnt-just-an-option-its-a-requirement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/mmo-family-failure-isnt-just-an-option-its-a-requirement/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MMO Family Failure isn't just an option, it's a requirement
The other day, I stumbled on an interview of author Paul Tough, who wrote the book called How Children Succeed. He stressed the importance of building grit, curiosity, and character in our children as they grown and learn. In addition, he emphasized the need to let our kids fail as they grow. In an age of helicopter parents and trophies for all, his message is simple but uncommon.

It's not unusual to hear people debate whether children are getting soft because of the need to protect them from failure. Could video games actually be the answer? This week, let's look at the topic of failure to see whether it might be more than an option -- it might be a requirement.

Continue reading MMO Family: Failure isn't just an option; it's a requirement

MassivelyMMO Family: Failure isn't just an option; it's a requirement originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmoseveeve-onlinefailurefamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkid-friendlykidskids-gamesminecraftmmo-familyopinionpaul-toughred-penvideo-games-are-goodvideo-games-failureWed, 06 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Have you ever attempted a large-scale building project in an MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/the-daily-grind-have-you-ever-attempted-a-large-scale-building/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/the-daily-grind-have-you-ever-attempted-a-large-scale-building/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/31/the-daily-grind-have-you-ever-attempted-a-large-scale-building/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

King's Landing in Minecraft
In case you missed it, a hundred enterprising souls spent the past four months reconstructing A Song of Ice and Fire's capital city of King's Landing in Minecraft. And when I say reconstructed, I don't mean they simply made a model of the Red Keep or the Sept of Baelor and called it a day.

I mean they built the entire bloody town, right down to the interior decorations for 3,000 unique buildings.

Now, I've undertaken a few MMO building projects in my time, but all of that pales in comparison to what goes on in Minecraft. What about you, Massively readers? Have you ever participated in a big construction project in an MMO or co-op title?

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: Have you ever attempted a large-scale building project in an MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-song-of-ice-and-firedaily-grindgame-of-thronesminecraftminecraft-kings-landingopinionsandboxtdgthe-daily-grindThu, 31 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Is the Google generation losing its inventive spirit?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/mmo-family-is-the-google-generation-losing-its-inventive-spiri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/mmo-family-is-the-google-generation-losing-its-inventive-spiri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/09/mmo-family-is-the-google-generation-losing-its-inventive-spiri/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MMO Family Is the Google generation losing its inventive spirit
I was witness to an interesting juxtaposition over Christmas vacation. On one end of the breakfast table was my laptop, with an article about an inventor who warns that the "Google generation" of children is growing up "brain dead" and without the ability to invent and create. But right next to it was my son's laptop, and he was deeply engrossed in a game of Minecraft with his sister and two cousins.

Are our children really losing their inventive spirit because of the internet? Should kids put down Minecraft and pick up Meccano instead? Let's take a look at inventor Trevor Baylis' concerns.

Continue reading MMO Family: Is the Google generation losing its inventive spirit?

MassivelyMMO Family: Is the Google generation losing its inventive spirit? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brain-deadcasualchildrenchildrens-mmosfamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedgoogleinventorskid-friendlykidskids-gameslosing-inventorsmeccanominecraftmmo-familyopinionrobloxtrevor-baylisWed, 09 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Deepworld]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/06/rise-and-shiny-deepworld/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/06/rise-and-shiny-deepworld/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/06/rise-and-shiny-deepworld/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Deepworld screenshot
When I first got my hands on Deepworld, a new iOS sandbox MMO by Bytebin, I knew I was holding something unique. Sure, it took some cues from Minecraft and came from one of my least favorite schools of design -- steampunk -- but it was being built by a young team of indie developers who simply wanted to make a world that was free-form, open to a player's creativity, and multi-platform. After spending some time with the game, I'd say that they have mostly succeeded.

There are some issues with the game, and I have played enough indie titles to know how rough games can be when launch rolls around. So far, however, the issues are relatively minor and could be easily fixed.

Gallery: Deepworld screenshots

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Deepworld

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Deepworld originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbytebindeepworldf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onIOSlivestreamMacmassively-tvminecraftrise-and-shinySandboxstar-sonatastreamtwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 06 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Time names Guild Wars 2 the top video game of 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/07/time-names-guild-wars-2-the-top-video-game-of-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/07/time-names-guild-wars-2-the-top-video-game-of-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/07/time-names-guild-wars-2-the-top-video-game-of-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Time puts Guild Wars 2 as top video game of 2012
What's the best video game of 2012? If you're Time magazine or are looking at the headline of this article, chances are you probably know the answer. Time's website counted down the year's top 10 video games, putting Guild Wars 2 at the top of the list.

The author seems taken with the game's dynamic event system: "All those events and hundreds more play out in real-time -- with, as Bono would say, or without you -- lending Guild Wars 2 the feel of a living world, and the sort of compulsive anywhere-you-go playability other MMOs only dream of."

Torchlight II also made it into the list at the number 10 spot, with the author saying that it delivered the same action-RPG rush of Diablo III at a third of the price.

MassivelyTime names Guild Wars 2 the top video game of 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Dec 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarpgbest-of-2012best-of-the-yearbuildingfantasyguild-wars-2gw2indie-game-magazine-radiointerviewmax-schaeferminecraftncsoftresource-managementresourcesrpsrunic-gamestimetime.comtltl2top-10-listtop-ten-listtorchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iiFri, 07 Dec 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Minecraft creator Notch's 0x10c is aiming at a monthly subscription fee]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/minecraft-creator-notchs-0x10c-is-aiming-at-a-monthly-subscript/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/minecraft-creator-notchs-0x10c-is-aiming-at-a-monthly-subscript/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/minecraft-creator-notchs-0x10c-is-aiming-at-a-monthly-subscript/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's like Marathon without crazy AIs.
Minecraft has had a substantial impact on gaming in general and MMOs in specific, which means that Markus "Notch" Persson's next project is going to be watched closely by a lot of people. So it's interesting to note that in a recent interview he discusses giving 0x10c a sort of shared living space in an MMO style as well as mentioning that the game may very well charge players a regular subscription fee.

Notch freely admits that it's a matter of making money off of the game, and it's meant to be a flexible approach. If free-to-play is more palatable than a subscription model, he's willing to experiment with that as well. The interview talks extensively about keeping the game's playing field level regardless of the business model as well as potential actions in an almost-MMO space; if you're curious to see what the game might look like, head on over for all the details.

MassivelyMinecraft creator Notch's 0x10c is aiming at a monthly subscription fee originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0x10cbusiness-modelsfeegamesgamingindieindie-gamesmarkus-notch-perssonmarkus-perssonminecraftmojangnotchpseudo-mmossubscription-feeThu, 29 Nov 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Torchlight II might take some inspiration from Minecraft down the road]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/sandbox-this-baby-torchlight-might-get-minecraft-styling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/sandbox-this-baby-torchlight-might-get-minecraft-styling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/sandbox-this-baby-torchlight-might-get-minecraft-styling/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Torchlight II might take some inspiration from Minecraft down the road
You like Torchlight II, right? Pummeling your way through waves of baddies, reducing those baddies to nothing more than piles of gold and items -- it's exhilarating, isn't it? But what if you could do more? Maybe like building a little house or planting a field of wheat?

Max Schaefer, designer extraordinaire, hinted in a recent interview that that's the sort of future addition he'd like for Torchlight II. He said that his personal hope for the game would be "to get the building and resource aspects of Minecraft and put them into an ARPG, just so it's a little more than just wandering from one monster to the next and hitting them."

Schaefer is a fan of this idea as a way to lend a sense of permanence to the game and a way for players to add to their game world. However, he's not the only person at Runic Games, which means his idea is just one of many possibilities for the future of Torchlight II. "We're a long way from exhausting the possibilities," he added.

To hear about power creep, player mods, and how awesome a Minecraft-Torchlight II fusion would be, hit up the full interview.

MassivelyTorchlight II might take some inspiration from Minecraft down the road originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgbuildingindie-game-magazine-radiointerviewmax-schaeferminecraftresource-managementresourcesrpsrunic-gamestltl2torchlighttorchlight-2torchlight-iiWed, 24 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Linden Lab preps four releases for November]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/linden-lab-preps-four-releases-for-november/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/linden-lab-preps-four-releases-for-november/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/linden-lab-preps-four-releases-for-november/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Linden Lab preps four games for November
The boys and girls of Linden Lab are expanding their operation. Rapidly expanding, as it turns out. The Second Life studio announced that it has not one, not two, not three, but four titles scheduled for release in November.

We've already heard about the first, which is the Minecraft-wannabe Patterns, but the others are just now being revealed. The second is the iPad-only (for now) Creatorverse, which allows users to draw shapes, have them interact via physics, and then share them on the cloud. The final two are Dio, a room creator, and Versu, a storytelling toolset.

Linden Lab CEO Rod Humble affirmed that Second Life will remain important to the studio, but it will need to make room for all of the new children coming into the family.

MassivelyLinden Lab preps four releases for November originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2lcreatorversediolindenlinden-labminecraftpatternsreal-lifereleaserelease-windowrod-humblesandboxsecond-lifeslversuvirtual-worldvirtual-worldsThu, 11 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Linden Lab reveals its next game, Patterns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/linden-lab-reveals-its-next-game-patterns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/linden-lab-reveals-its-next-game-patterns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/20/linden-lab-reveals-its-next-game-patterns/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Pointy.
Where does a company like Linden Lab go after Second Life? Obviously any other titles from the studio need to be creative and offer players a wide realm of personalized options... but Second Life is so open that it's difficult to follow up with something that's any more open to player creativity. Nevertheless, the company is certainly aiming for that with its upcoming new title, Patterns. And while the game looks at a glance like Minecraft with triangles, there's more to the concept than that.

As explained in the trailer, Patterns is focused on an experience not dissimilar to Minecraft but with a heavier focus on creativity. The game will sport a real-time physics engine as demonstrated in the trailer, giving objects physical properties that come into play as they enter the world. While the game is still in very early development, you can get a sense of what's in the future by glancing at the trailer just past the break.

Continue reading Linden Lab reveals its next game, Patterns

MassivelyLinden Lab reveals its next game, Patterns originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Sep 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept-trailerearly-developmentgame-enginegame-mechanicslinden-labminecraftnew-titlespatternsphysicsphysics-engineplayer-generated-contentpreview-trailerpreviewssecond-lifesltrailerupcoming-titlesThu, 20 Sep 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Blender: Karen's kid-friendly game with grown-up appeal]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/mmo-blender-karens-kid-friendly-game-with-grown-up-appeal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/mmo-blender-karens-kid-friendly-game-with-grown-up-appeal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/07/mmo-blender-karens-kid-friendly-game-with-grown-up-appeal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MMO Blender A kidfriendly game with grownup appeal
I regularly explore the good, bad, and the ugly in kid-friendly MMOs, so I was eager to have a turn with the MMO Blender to see if I could concoct a game that would be appealing for kids but also have some features that should be standard in grown-up MMOs as well. There are a lot of MMOs out there that are aimed at a young audience, but I think the industry sometimes holds back and opts to make a game that's safe. The result of going safe, though, is that it's also not that compelling. Let's take a look at a few features that would make a (nearly) perfect kid-friendly MMO, one that might even be appealing to adults.

Continue reading MMO Blender: Karen's kid-friendly game with grown-up appeal

MassivelyMMO Blender: Karen's kid-friendly game with grown-up appeal originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Sep 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armchair-game-designbiowareClone-Wars-Adventurescwaeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifavorite-mmofeaturedfree-realmsgame-designgame-mechanicskingsislemechanicsminecraftmmo-blendermmo-mechanicsmmo-mix-tapemmo-mixologyopinionpirate101robloxswtorwizard101Fri, 07 Sep 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Trying to find real MMOs on the app market]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/24/mmobility-trying-to-find-real-mmos-on-the-app-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/24/mmobility-trying-to-find-real-mmos-on-the-app-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/24/mmobility-trying-to-find-real-mmos-on-the-app-market/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Nexus 7 games list screenshot
If you spend as much time as I do scouring your favorite app marketplace, you know just how frustrating it can be to quickly download a new "MMORPG" only to find out it's not really an MMORPG. Luckily, the Play Store makes it relatively easy to get a refund on a newly purchased games, and uninstalling is easy enough. It can still be very frustrating to become excited for a title only to find out it's nothing like its description.

The fact is that there are a lot of great MMOs on the mobile markets. Most are available on both Android or iOS as well. I also search on Google a lot, but the results from the search giant can sometimes be more unreliable. When it comes down to it, the only way to know whether a game is a true MMO is to download it and try it out.

Or, of course, keep an eye on columns like mine.

Continue reading MMObility: Trying to find real MMOs on the app market

MassivelyMMObility: Trying to find real MMOs on the app market originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidarenas-trial-of-valorbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddie2nitefeaturedgoogle-playIOSlittle-empiresminecraftmmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonesmartphoneFri, 24 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DayZ becomes a standalone project]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/dayz-becomes-a-standalone-project/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/dayz-becomes-a-standalone-project/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/dayz-becomes-a-standalone-project/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

DayZ
DayZ, the little mod that could, has grown up and moved out of the house. The Arma II mod will now be developed as a standalone project by Bohemia Interactive with lead developer Dean Hall as the project's boss.

The mod and the standalone game will continue to be developed side-by-side, so if you're invested in the mod, now you can keep on keepin' on just as you have been. Like Minecraft, the game will have an alpha version available for a big discount, and alpha will go through fast iterations.

Hall promised more information in the coming weeks.

MassivelyDayZ becomes a standalone project originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armaarma-2arma-iibohemia-interactivedayzdayz-gamedayz-moddean-hallminecraftmmofpsmodmoddingsurvivalTue, 07 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Gender choice and guild drama]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/the-guild-counsel-gender-choice-and-guild-drama/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/the-guild-counsel-gender-choice-and-guild-drama/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/02/the-guild-counsel-gender-choice-and-guild-drama/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Guild Counsel Gender choice and guild drama
There are many reasons for guild drama, but one of the most challenging comes from a single choice that we make before our characters even see the light of day. In MMOs, character creation can consist of full customization, or it can simply be a choice among some pre-sets, but the majority of games give you the choice to pick your gender. Even if you select a non-human race, there are usually male versions and female versions. For many players, this is a no-brainer, and they play as their own gender. But many others opt to go cross-gender, and that can lead to drama later on, even if it's unintended. In this week's Guild Counsel, let's look at the topic of gender to see why it can be so problematic and how guilds can avoid potential drama from it.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Gender choice and guild drama

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Gender choice and guild drama originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Aug 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceavatar-selectioncross-genderfeaturedgender-bendingguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildskaren-bryanleadershipmarkus-perssonminecraftminecraft-steveopinionraph-kosterthe-guild-counselThu, 02 Aug 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: League of Legends' balance patch and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/not-so-massively-league-of-legends-balance-patch-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/not-so-massively-league-of-legends-balance-patch-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/not-so-massively-league-of-legends-balance-patch-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
It's been a big week for League of Legends, with a major balance update and new champion Zyra being released. Sona, Malzahar, and Xin Zhao received major buffs, while Evelynn and Twitch were both completely reworked as part of a plan to balance persistent stealth. Dota 2 released new hero Templar Assassin and revealed a limited edition microtransaction key that is needed to open a rare chest. Heroes of Newerth also released its own new hero this week, a ranged damage-dealer called Prophet, who thrives on teamwork.

Blizzard revealed a few details on Diablo III's upcoming legendary item buffs, and players manually recreated the game's Diamond Gates of Heaven area in Minecraft. Path of Exile continued to show its impressive character customisation options in its latest Build of the Week video and offered a sneak peek at the new passive skill tree layout. Finally, the Torchlight II crew announced that it will be at PAX Prime at the end of August and will be running a Torchlight cosplay contest while there.

Continue reading Not So Massively: League of Legends' balance patch and more

MassivelyNot So Massively: League of Legends' balance patch and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jul 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbalancebattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbuffcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsevelynnf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslegendarylegendary-itemslolminecraftmobamultiplayernerfnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpatchpatch-previewpath-of-exileplant-magepoeprophetpvpriotriot-gamesround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamess2s2-gamestemplar-assassintwitchvalvevideozyraMon, 16 Jul 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: The death of AAA]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/the-soapbox-the-death-of-aaa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/the-soapbox-the-death-of-aaa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/26/the-soapbox-the-death-of-aaa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

I think we're all pretty familiar with the tragic story of 38 Studios by now. If not, take some time to familiarize yourself with it. Essentially it is a tale of massive dreams, botched plans, and hundreds of job losses. I'm not yet sure exactly what went wrong, but I have a feeling that the lackluster response to the studio's stand-alone title might be to blame on top of the poor performance in the high-end of the company. Either way, I have seen many comments exclaiming the end of the big-budget title or at least more trepidation from governments that feel the need to get into a game (no pun intended) they were unfamiliar with.

If we could take a poll of the several million "AAA" MMO players in North America, it's my bet that most of them simply go from one title to the other. The RIFT players who are now enjoying Star Wars: The Old Republic came from World of Warcraft, and before that (if they played MMOs before WoW) they might have been City of Heroes fans and EverQuest players before that. For a long time, large studios held all of the players. Then, AAA started rolling down the steep hill to where it is now.

Continue reading The Soapbox: The death of AAA

MassivelyThe Soapbox: The death of AAA originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosAnarchy-Onlinebattlestar-galactica-onlineBigpointBlizzardcity-of-heroeseditorialeverquestfeaturedflyfffree-realmsgemstone-ivglitchillyriadjagexkurt-schillingmabinogiMapleStorymilmominecraftop-edopinionpocket-legendsrantrantsrappelzriftrunescapesecond-lifeSegasoapboxSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentspiral-knightsstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-soapboxthree-ringstiny-specktrionvindictuswizard101World-of-Warcraftwowwurm-onlineTue, 26 Jun 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Glitch dev Google Maps all of World of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/glitch-dev-google-maps-all-of-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/glitch-dev-google-maps-all-of-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/glitch-dev-google-maps-all-of-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Glitch dev Google Maps all of World of Warcraft
What do MMO developers do on their days off? If you're Tiny Speck co-founder Cal Henderson, you engage in huge projects concerning other MMOs. The man partially responsible for the sleeper hit Glitch spent a gob of time recreating World of Warcraft in Google Maps, and the result is awesome.

Henderson was inspired by an earlier attempt to provide a comprehensive map of the game but felt that he could vastly improve upon the project. He details in his blog how he went about converting the entire world of Azeroth into Google Maps, including the dungeons and several off-the-grid areas unseen by most players. Henderson also shares a few interesting tidbits that he dug up in WoW's files, including earlier names for areas.

World of Warcraft is a popular target for such crazy projects. We reported earlier this year that a player was working to create a Minecraft version of the entirety of Azeroth.

MassivelyGlitch dev Google Maps all of World of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionback-to-betabetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedcal-hendersoncasualf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playglitchgoogle-mapshipstermapmappingmapsminecraftsandboxtiny-specktinyspeckunlauncheningwarcraftworld-of-mapcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 18 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Roblox first impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/mmo-family-roblox-first-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/mmo-family-roblox-first-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/mmo-family-roblox-first-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

MMO Family Roblox first impressions
In last week's MMO Family, we had the chance to talk to Roblox CEO David Baszucki and hear how he took a physics-based simulation program and turned it into a successful game design tool that's enabled players of all ages to build and explore an endless variety of game worlds.

But what exactly is Roblox? It's been compared to LEGO and Minecraft, but there's actually a lot more to it than that. In this week's MMO Family, we'll dive into the game for some first impressions and explore why everyone, both young and old, should check it out!

Continue reading MMO Family: Roblox first impressions

MassivelyMMO Family: Roblox first impressions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jun 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmosdavid-baszuckifamilyfamily-friendlyfeaturedkaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gameslegosminecraftmmo-familyopinionrobloxsandboxuser-generated-contentWed, 13 Jun 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Notch's 0x10c an MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/is-notchs-0x10c-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/is-notchs-0x10c-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/is-notchs-0x10c-an-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Notch
Markus "Notch" Persson has let slip the fact that he's working on a followup to Minecraft. The title -- jokingly referred to as Mars Effect a couple of weeks ago -- is now known as 0x10c, and it's got enough geek cred to make our hearts go pitter-patter.

First of all it's hard science-fiction, and second of all, it has an ambitious feature list that boasts an advanced economy, space battles, seamless planetary landings, and "lots of engineering." It's also got a nifty ship system wherein players will need to manage a generator and wattage to power various onboard systems.

Finally, there's a fully functioning computer within the computer game. Notch says that the "emulated 16-bit CPU can be used to control your entire ship, or just to play games [...] while waiting for a large mining operation to finish." The only question left in our minds (other than when can we play it) is whether or not it's an MMO. The website hints at single- and multiplayer functionality "via the multiverse," and it also mentions a monthly fee.

MassivelyIs Notch's 0x10c an MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0x10chard-sci-fiis-notchs-game-an-mmoMarkus-Perssonmars-effectminecraftmmo-industrynew-titlesnotchsci-fiThu, 05 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Retro-themed sandbox 8BitMMO announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/retro-themed-sandbox-8bitmmo-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/retro-themed-sandbox-8bitmmo-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/retro-themed-sandbox-8bitmmo-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

8BitMMO
Archive Entertainment is looking to get a slice of the massive Minecraft pie (which is square, not round), as the team has dived into the concept of a retro-style sandbox MMO called 8BitMMO. It may not boast the most incredible graphics, but that's kind of the point; players who recall their NES days with fondness will be right at home with the presentation on display.

8BitMMO is touted to be a "100% player-built world," where anything can be built, destroyed, and harvested for raw materials. Up to 250 players can occupy a server at the same time, and there's the option to group or go solo while you build, explore, or fight off the evil LawyerCats. There are quests, PvP engagements, and methods of protecting one's buildings from griefing.

This project is the sole creation of Robby Zinchak, who was formerly a producer at Microsoft. Zinchak has been working on 8BitMMO since 2001 and is impressed with the creativity shown in the game so far: "People are creating some genuinely cool architecture - everything from towering windmills to sports arenas. One player even made a huge statue of a flying dragon. The community is very inventive, and I can't wait to see what they'll come up with next!"

Currently, 8BitMMO can be played on the official website as it continues to be developed. You can watch the trailer for this interesting project after the jump.

[Source: Archive Entertainment press release]

Continue reading Retro-themed sandbox 8BitMMO announced

MassivelyRetro-themed sandbox 8BitMMO announced originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8-bit8bit8bitmmoarchivearchive-entertainmentf2pfree-to-playhumorindieindie-mmolawyercatsminecraftminecraft-mmonespvpRobby-Zinchaksandboxsandbox-mmoFri, 16 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: What kids MMOs can learn from markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mmo-family-what-kids-mmos-can-learn-from-markers-jackpot-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mmo-family-what-kids-mmos-can-learn-from-markers-jackpot-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mmo-family-what-kids-mmos-can-learn-from-markers-jackpot-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Markers
Play is important. Whether you're a kid or a grown-up, play has an important role in our lives, and video games are taking an increasingly large percentage of our playtime these days. But for kids' play in particular, there's always a question about the quality of video game time and whether or not it's actually just a waste of time.

Kid-friendly MMOs are a relatively new segment of the MMO industry, but it often feels like they're just grown-up MMOs with kid-friendly graphics. Sometimes, the games are even stripped of the grown-up features in an attempt to make them easier, but that often results in a less than compelling game. Here's a quest; do it. Here's a creature; zap it. Here's a pet; hug it. Here are some clothes and decorative items; buy them. I may sound a bit jaded, but that's only because I think kid-friendly MMOs can be so much better than they currently are.

To do that, we have to step back and examine how kids play, and studios must concentrate game design around that. In this week's MMO Family, I'll be looking at three areas of kids' play and exploring why games should look to Magic Markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders for inspiration.

Continue reading MMO Family: What kids MMOs can learn from markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders

MassivelyMMO Family: What kids MMOs can learn from markers, Jackpot, and Chutes and Ladders originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenchildrens-mmoschutes-and-laddersfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-friendly-mmosfeaturedfree-realmsjackpotkaren-bryankid-friendlykidskids-gameskids-mmosmagic-markersminecraftmmo-and-imaginationmmo-familyopinionWed, 22 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Chocolate makes you fat edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-mmo-report-chocolate-makes-you-fat-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-mmo-report-chocolate-makes-you-fat-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-mmo-report-chocolate-makes-you-fat-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey delivers a Valentine's Day rant before moving on to the latest news -- namely, The Secret World's release date rumors, Wakfu's PvP, and the sunset of sci-fi sandbox Earthrise. He also rounds up the latest Blizzard headlines, noting the lawsuit against Valve, World of Warcraft's recent sub losses, and the "valiant and pointless exercise" of rebuilding Azeroth in Minecraft.

Finally, Uncle Casey's Mailbag provides a forum for the debate over just how we're supposed to pronounce "SWTOR." All this and more in the video behind the break!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Chocolate makes you fat edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Chocolate makes you fat edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azerothblizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcasey-schreinerchocolatedotadota-2earthrisefuncomlawsuitminecraftmmo-reportnewsopinionpvpstar-wars-the-old-republicsub-lossessunsetswtorthe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtswvalentines-dayvalvevideovideoswakfuThu, 16 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The world of World of Warcraft recreated in Minecraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/the-world-of-world-of-warcraft-recreated-in-minecraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/the-world-of-world-of-warcraft-recreated-in-minecraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/the-world-of-world-of-warcraft-recreated-in-minecraft/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Minecraft
Minecraft players are well-known for their insane, over-the-top LEGO building projects, but one may have all the rest beat. A player named Rumsey is in the process of recreating the entire world of Azeroth from World of Warcraft inside the game, and while it's not completed quite yet, it's already incredibly impressive.

Rumsey says that he had to cheat a little: Instead of placing every single block by hand, he wrote a piece of software that helps to automate the process of making full-scale version of the world. He's recently completed one continent -- Kalimdor -- and has plans to do the others as well as all of WoW's dungeons. He says that the only problem he's run into is Minecraft's height limit of 128 blocks, so he's had to employ mods to get around that.

When the project is complete, Rumsey has hopes that it will be hosted online for tourists to visit this much blockier version of their favorite WoW stomping grounds.

MassivelyThe world of World of Warcraft recreated in Minecraft originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azerothcustom-softwarefunnyhumorinsane-projectskalimdorlegolego-bricksminecraftminecraft-blocksmodelmodsrecreationrumseyworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 09 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Four ways to improve kid-friendly MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/mmo-family-four-ways-to-improve-kid-friendly-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/mmo-family-four-ways-to-improve-kid-friendly-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/mmo-family-four-ways-to-improve-kid-friendly-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Minecraft flame field
Right now, there's a small war going on in our house. It's winter, we're all cooped up inside, and we're interested in different games. What's particularly interesting is that my kids will tolerate most of the games I play and join in, except for one: Star Wars: The Old Republic. They aren't remotely interested in it, and any time I fire it up, they push back by demanding their favorite game, which is Minecraft.

It got me thinking about why kids would prefer a 16-bit, block-shaped world to a glitzy, voiced-over, multi-million dollar title. Adult gamers love to hash out why they love one game over another, but what makes games appealing from a kid's perspective? Furthermore, we often see differences in kid-friendly MMOs and their features compared to games for grown ups, but can those features be improved?

Continue reading MMO Family: Four ways to improve kid-friendly MMOs

MassivelyMMO Family: Four ways to improve kid-friendly MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarechatchat-filterscollectible-petseaElectronic-Artsfeaturedgated-contentintrinsic-funkaren-bryankid-friendlykid-friendly-mmosminecraftminipetsmmo-familymojangpetpetsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorvanity-petszone-wallsWed, 25 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Minecraft guild creates massive world to help educate children]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/minecraft-guild-creates-massive-world-to-help-educate-children/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/minecraft-guild-creates-massive-world-to-help-educate-children/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/minecraft-guild-creates-massive-world-to-help-educate-children/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Massively Minecraft Miner's Guild
Yes, I know that Minecraft isn't technically an MMO, but with multiplayer servers, you can have up to 999 players connected simultaneously in the same space, which is ironically more than many MMOs. But I digress!

Massively Minecraft (no relation) is a community of Minecraft players dedicated to the education of children on a massive scale through the popular indie sandbox. Created by virtual world vet Jokaydia, Massively Minecraft is "a Guild based learning community for kids aged 4-16 who are interested in developing digital media skills, exploring their creativity and developing online social skills." Of course, in an environment like that, there's an application process to get onto the multiplayer server's whitelist, so safety is a priority.

You can learn more about how the Massively Minecraft community operates by visiting its website.

[Thanks Tateru for the tip!]

MassivelyMinecraft guild creates massive world to help educate children originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communityeducationfor-the-childrenjokaydiamassively-minecraftminecraftmojangMojang-SpecificationsFri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Shut up, that's why edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/the-mmo-report-shut-up-thats-why-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/the-mmo-report-shut-up-thats-why-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/the-mmo-report-shut-up-thats-why-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The MMO Report - Minecraft
Why does The MMO Report cover Minecraft? "Shut up, that's why," says Casey with a smile. In addition to chronicling Minecraft's newest FarmVille-esque update, the Beard meanders through the Dark Millennium Online cancellation rumors, The Secret World's Illuminati trailer, and TERA's upcoming May release date ("your cue to start claiming it's better than WoW, internet"). Finally, Casey touches on the patch delays suffered by Star Wars: The Old Republic, excusing the tardiness by suggesting the promised dates are more like guidelines, and besides, "Only a Sith deals in absolutes."

All this and a quick dip into Uncle Casey's Mailbag can be found in the full HD video behind the cut.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Shut up, that's why edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Shut up, that's why edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblueholebluehole-studioscasey-schreinerdark-millennium-onlineeaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfarmvillefuncomgames-workshophumorlucasartsminecraftmmo-reportmojangopinionsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-mmo-reportthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthqtortswuncle-caseys-mailbagvideovideosvigilvigil-gameswar40kwar40k-dark-millennium-onlineWarhammer-40KThu, 19 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Hangover edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/the-mmo-report-hangover-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/the-mmo-report-hangover-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/the-mmo-report-hangover-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey stumbles in from the office Christmas party to report on Ubisoft's rumored triple-AAA Wii-U MMO, Marvel Universe Online's endless parade of character art, and the politics of Minecraft's design (psst... Minecraft -- sandbox? Yes. MMO? Not really!). He also jokes about Star Wars: The Old Republic's two million beta testers, suggesting that the number proves "nerds will flock to anything with a Star Wars or BioWare logo on the box." We're sure he speaks from personal experience.

Finally, The Beard dips into Uncle Casey's Mailbag to recount some harrowing tales of MMO deflowering. Enjoy the full MMO Report past the cut!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Hangover edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Hangover edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecaseycasey-schreinereaElectronic-Artsffxivfinal-fantasy-xivgazillion-entertainmenthangoverhumormarvel-universe-onlineminecraftmmo-reportmojangmuonerdsnewsSquare-EnixStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-mmo-reporttorubisoftuncle-caseys-mailbagvideovideosThu, 08 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Schreinercraft edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/the-mmo-report-schreinercraft-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/the-mmo-report-schreinercraft-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/the-mmo-report-schreinercraft-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey covers South Korea's Cinderella Law, Firefall's attempts at class balance, and World of Warcraft's 4.3 patch. He also suggests that "it's beginning to look a lot like riftmas" in RIFT (groan) before announcing that in honor of Minecon and Minecraft's 240 million logins per month, he will soon begin work on "Schreinercraft, a graphically minimalist, open-source game where players build, create, and customize virtual beards for their avatars." He notes that he doesn't "have any programming experience, start-up capital, or a business plan," but he "love[s] money and would enjoy having more of it." Don't we all!

Finally, he dives into Uncle Casey's Mailbag and asks readers to mail him the story of their first MMO experience for possible inclusion in a future show.

All this and more in the full HD video behind the break!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Schreinercraft edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Schreinercraft edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balanceBlizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcaseycasey-schreinercinderella-lawfirefallmineconminecraftmmo-reportnewsred-5red-5-studiosriftschreinercraftsouth-koreathe-mmo-reporttriontrion-worldsuncle-caseys-mailbagvideovideosWorld-of-WarcraftwowThu, 01 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Occupy Azeroth edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/mmo-report-occupy-azeroth-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/mmo-report-occupy-azeroth-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/mmo-report-occupy-azeroth-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey wonders whether we're occupying Azeroth yet -- after all, Blizzard seems to be one of the few MMO companies capable of losing a million players while increasing profits. "You guys gonna have to sell your Lear jets in order to cover your yacht maintenance costs?" wonders Casey. No. No, they are not.

The Beard also discusses EverQuest II's latest free-to-play transition ("people are still paying for that game?!"), The Secret World's Templar week, Minecon in Las Vegas this weekend, and Bigpoint's Game of Thrones MMO -- an IP we'll probably be sick of "before the game even comes out."

Casey winds down with a list of winners for the ongoing MMO Report drinking game contest and an amendment to the rules: "Taking a drink every time I say something sarcastic is not a drinking game. That's just called drinking. Because it never ends."

Make the jump for the full MMO Report!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Occupy Azeroth edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Occupy Azeroth edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BigpointblizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcasey-schreinereqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfree-to-playfuncomgame-of-thronesmineconminecraftmmo-reportnewsoccupy-azerothsoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttemplartemplar-weektemplar-weekeq2the-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtswvideovideosWorld-of-WarcraftwowThu, 17 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter At Your Own Rift: The big takeaways from GDC]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-big-takeaways-from-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-big-takeaways-from-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-big-takeaways-from-gdc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ember Isle
After dining on enough beef brisket to feed an army of hungry cowboys, I returned from Austin's GDC Online to chip away at the Ashes of History world event quests. RIFT had a nice showing at the GDC Online Awards ceremony, walking away with awards for Best Online Technology and Best New Online Game. In addition, Trion CCO and RIFT Executive Producer Scott Hartsman gave a talk about RIFT's pre-launch preparations and post-launch plans. GDC was dominated by a handful of common topics, like free-to-play, metrics, monetization, and technology. In this week's Enter at Your Own Rift, we'll take a look at a few of these to see how they apply to RIFT, and then we'll look at the big takeaways from GDC overall.

Continue reading Enter At Your Own Rift: The big takeaways from GDC

MassivelyEnter At Your Own Rift: The big takeaways from GDC originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Benedikt-GrindelChristopher-Schmitzenter-at-your-own-rifteqeverquestextra-life-2011f2pfeaturedfree-to-playgdcgdc-onlinegdc-online-2011georg-zoellerkaren-bryanMarkus-Perssonminecraftmojangmonitizationpanelpanelsred-doorriftscott-hartsmansettlers-onlineshadow-citiesstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortelarathe-settlers-onlinetriontrion-worldsubisoft-blue-bytewizard101Wed, 26 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Angular blocky dragons edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/the-mmo-report-angular-blocky-dragons-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/the-mmo-report-angular-blocky-dragons-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/the-mmo-report-angular-blocky-dragons-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report ("where Steve Jobs is an exalted Buddhist saint of secular humanism"), Casey Schreiner chats about Neverwinter's new status as a full MMO, PlanetSide 2's famed story-writer, and Fallen Earth's long journey to the land of F2P. He also discusses Star Wars: The Old Republic's companion features and Minecraft's impending November 18th release (you can "waste your time chasing angular, blocky dragons" until then).

Finally, Casey allows his ego to be inflated by Uncle Casey's Mailbag and announces he's headed to a geeky event to which he'll bring "a picnic basket, six changes of pants, four boxes of Kleenex, and one candy cigarette." You'll just have to tune in past the cut to find out where.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Angular blocky dragons edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Angular blocky dragons edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey-schreinerf2pfallen-earthfree-to-playminecraftmmo-reportneverwinternewsplanetside-2star-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-mmo-reportthe-old-republictorvideoThu, 13 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: A talk with Teppy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-a-talk-with-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-a-talk-with-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-game-archaeologist-spins-a-tale-in-the-desert-a-talk-with-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

A Tale in the Desert
I have to say, I have nothing but admiration for lone wolf-style developers who decide to pish-posh giant studio teams and massive budgets and jump into the game-making mosh pit anyway. Andrew "Teppy" Tepper is one of these visionaries who had an idea for a unique MMO and took it to fruition. I mean, most of us come up with "totally tubular" notions for online games, but how many of us make it happen? Outside of a couple of doodles on a Post-It, that is.

In our second week covering the fascinating sandbox world of A Tale in the Desert, The Game Archaeologist had the pleasure of sitting down with Teppy to get his perspective on how one man bootstrapped his way into the MMO world. He also dishes on the team's next MMO project, which we'll be talking more about on Massively later this week.

So what's it like to create the ultimate sandbox in Egypt of all places? Teppy, take it away!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: A talk with Teppy

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist spins A Tale in the Desert: A talk with Teppy originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-deserta-tale-in-the-desert-5a-tale-in-the-desert-6andrew-teppercodecraftingdemi-pharaohdragons-taleegenesisegyptfeaturedinterviewlaissez-fairelawlawsminecraftpharaohsandboxsociologicalsociologytellingteppywurm-onlineTue, 20 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Unwanted guests from Connecticut edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/the-mmo-report-unwanted-guests-from-connecticut-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/the-mmo-report-unwanted-guests-from-connecticut-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/15/the-mmo-report-unwanted-guests-from-connecticut-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

The MMO Report - Casey and Dave
This week's MMO Report finds host Casey Schreiner in fine form despite the disconcerting presence of another neck-bearded nerd crowding the camera during the show's opening monologue. The interloper turns out to be Schreiner's cousin Dave, who is apparently taking our intrepid host up on last week's hospitality offer.

Never fear, though -- there is some MMO news to be had during the show's eight-minute running time. City of Heroes and its upcoming free-to-play conversion gets a mention, as does the Star Wars The Old Republic trailer focused on Smugglers (who Casey says will "kick you in the nuts, tag you with a sticky grenade, and laugh in your face as you fall to your knees in agony"). There's also a blurb about Dungeons and Dragons Online's new update, RIFT's latest promotion, Minecraft's adventure pack, and of course Uncle Casey's mailbag. Check it out after the break.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Unwanted guests from Connecticut edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Unwanted guests from Connecticut edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey-schreinercity-of-heroescohcousin-dave-from-connecticutf2pfantasyfree-to-playg4g4tvminecraftMiscellaneousmmo-reportriftsci-fistar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-mmo-reportvideoThu, 15 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: What EQII can learn from Minecraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/the-tattered-notebook-what-eqii-can-learn-from-minecraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/the-tattered-notebook-what-eqii-can-learn-from-minecraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/the-tattered-notebook-what-eqii-can-learn-from-minecraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EverQuest II home
EverQuest II's Update 61 is officially here, and the sweeping itemization revamp has been about as pleasant as the arrival of Hurricane Irene. I spent the better part of a morning trying to go through all my gear and then redo all my AAs. But I was one of the lucky ones because I don't really have alts. Some of my guildmates had at least half a dozen or so toons to fix, and they had to do that two or three times because hotfixes were resetting gear all over again.

It's not really that surprising when we consider there's a mountain of gear in game, and over the years, certain stats grew in value only to be de-emphasized in a future expansion. But it's frustrating for players because some hard-earned gear has become less powerful by comparison, and that's altered the landscape when it comes to old content and challenge.

I ran out of gas about two-thirds of the way into respeccing, and I decided to shift gears and check out the new housing changes. The leaderboards are great because people can surf the list of homes and directly port to them to see them up close. The problem right now is that the ranking system could use a little work; it currently allows for abuse and griefing. But despite the issues, it's helped put the decorating community in the limelight, and it's given housing a new purpose in game.

That got me thinking about the future of EQII's housing system and the upcoming addition of player-created dungeons. With the new focus on player-generated content, EQII could learn quite a lot from an unlikely candidate -- Minecraft. Let's take a look at how.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: What EQII can learn from Minecraft

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: What EQII can learn from Minecraft originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EQ2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-ii-extendedfeaturedhousingkaren-bryanminecraftopinionpgcplayer-generated-contenttattered-notebookSat, 03 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Casey says frak edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-mmo-report-casey-says-frak-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-mmo-report-casey-says-frak-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-mmo-report-casey-says-frak-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This week's MMO Report is all about Casey's ego. Not one shred of MMO news bullied its way onto the show this week, unless you count a story about Battlestar Galactica Online reaching two million subscribers as news. OK, maybe you can count Age of Conan going free-to-play, or maybe the newest Minecraft update is technically news. Perhaps Perfect World Entertainment buying Cryptic Studios would be considered news, too. But let's not forget: The MMO Report is really about Uncle Casey's Mail Bag. So that is exactly what will fill the rest of this post.

The Mail Bag this week is all about love, love, and memes. Fans share their love for each other, love for Casey, and love for Morgan Webb. Yes, she's been gone for two weeks, but apparently Casey's manly smell has not ousted the memory of the time Morgan hosted the MMO Report. One fan has not forgotten; he was so inspired that he created a meme about it just to show how much he cared.

Jump past the break if you are interested in catching a glimpse of Casey Schreiner's ego. We have the full video ready to go. Maybe you will catch the news that we missed while staring at Casey's incredible beard.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Casey says frak edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Casey says frak edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocbattlestar-galactica-onlineBigpointbsg-onlinebsgocasey-schreinercryptic-studiosfuncomg4g4tvminecraftmmo-reportmorgan-webbperfect-world-entertainmentthe-mmo-reportuncle-caseys-mailbagThu, 02 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: A case for player housing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/enter-at-your-own-rift-a-case-for-player-housing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/enter-at-your-own-rift-a-case-for-player-housing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/enter-at-your-own-rift-a-case-for-player-housing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Earlier this week we were treated to the news that Trion Worlds is going to offer free character transfers between "select servers" once Update 1.3 hits. Now, how useful this will be is anyone's guess -- as some have noted, this may just be a clever ploy to redistribute the population from high-pop servers to low-pop ones -- but generally it's been met with applause from the community. I remain impressed as a consumer with how fast and aggressive Trion is pumping out content, and the fact that this is a free transfer once per week is really cool considering how most other subscription MMOs charge for a similar "premium" service.

Whatever Trion's motive and however it'll play out, I do know this: The company needs to continue to bring the heat to the competition. It's vital that RIFT distinguishes itself from the rest of the pack in some way, whether it be polish, originality, speed, customer service, or innovation.

Today I'd like to make a case for what I think should be high up on Trion's development schedule: player housing. We know it's something the devs have discussed, with some very much for and some very much against, but I'm hoping it's gone past the brainstorming phase. Why should we care about what might seem like fluff? How could housing work in RIFT? Tune in after the jump, same Bat-time, same Bat-channel to find out!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: A case for player housing

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: A case for player housing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artifactartifactsblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcharacter-transferscity-of-heroescohcollectionsdynamic-contentendless-courtenter-at-your-own-rifteq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedguild-housinghousinginvasionsjeflord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrominecraftmythicpatch-1.3phplayer-housingriftrift-planes-of-telarariftssandboxsupergroupthe-simstriontrion-worldsvanity-petswarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 25 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Lineage shutdown, Lion's Arch, and Sith Inquisitor trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/the-mmo-report-lineage-shutdown-lions-arch-and-sith-inquisit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/the-mmo-report-lineage-shutdown-lions-arch-and-sith-inquisit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/the-mmo-report-lineage-shutdown-lions-arch-and-sith-inquisit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Today's MMO Report, sadly, suffers from a distinct lack of Casey Schreiner. But all is well, as G4's Morgan Webb has stepped up to the plate to cover for Casey as he celebrates his 30th birthday.

The first order of business is the announcement that NCSoft will be shutting down the North American Lineage servers on June 29th. All inactive accounts for the 13-year-old game have been reactivated, and the game will be free-to-play until the servers go dark.

Secondly, we move on to the much-anticipated Guild Wars 2 and the confirmation that Lion's Arch, a social hub featured in the first game, would be making its return in Guild Wars 2. Be sure to check out our coverage of the unveiling of the fly-through video and some analytical commentary from our own Rubi Bayer.

Next up is some screen-time for Minecraft. While the game is not strictly an MMO, there's no doubt that the indie title has gained immense popularity in the gaming community. Morgan reports that Minecraft creator Notch is contemplating holding a Las Vegas launch party... err, convention tentatively dated for November 11th.

Star Wars: The Old Republic's Sith Inquisitor made its trailer debut earlier this week. Being described by Morgan as "the one player character you really don't want to meet in a dark alley," the class incorporates elements of both spellcasters and stealth classes into one mean, Force-fueled combination.

Lastly, we have a fly-through video of the starting zones of Perfect World Entertainment's Ether Saga Odyssey. The free-to-play MMO launched late last month.

For the full Casey-and-mailbag-deprived video, scuttle on past the cut.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Lineage shutdown, Lion's Arch, and Sith Inquisitor trailer

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Lineage shutdown, Lion's Arch, and Sith Inquisitor trailer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcasey-schreinerether-sagaether-saga-odysseyether-saga-onlineguild-wars-2gw2inquisitorlineagelions-archminecraftmorgan-webbncsoftperfect-world-entertainmentpweserver-shutdownshutdownsith-inquisitorstar-wars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-mmo-reportthe-old-republictorThu, 19 May 2011 20:00:00 EST