Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Touring a galaxy reborn]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/eve-evolved-touring-a-galaxy-reborn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/eve-evolved-touring-a-galaxy-reborn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/eve-evolved-touring-a-galaxy-reborn/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title
EVE Online recently celebrated the release of its incredible Crucible expansion, noted as one of the most feature-heavy expansions in the game's history despite the majority of its features being produced in a period of just a few weeks. Two years' worth of graphical upgrades, features, balance upgrades and quality-of-life fixes hit Tranquility all at once, and the response from players has been incredibly positive.

Last week I rounded up all the information there is to know about the Crucible expansion, but reading articles and news posts is no substitute for hands-on experience. This week I took a tour around parts of New Eden to explore the incredible new graphics Crucible delivered. As I have a background in graphics programming, the graphical upgrades are obviously the most exciting change for me. The astounding background nebulae are even more impressive when you know just how difficult it would be to build a nebula system that looks this incredible from any location.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I explore a reborn galaxy and catalogue my adventures in a massive HD gallery.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Touring a galaxy reborn

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Touring a galaxy reborn originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpccp-eveccp-gamescrucibleengine-trailseveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexpansionexpansionsexplorationexplorerfeaturedgalaxygallentegallerygraphicsgraphics-enginegraphics-programminggraphics-updatehands-onhighseclowsecminmatarnebulanebulaenebulasnew-edennullsecscreenshotscreenshotsspacewarpwarp-drivewarpingSun, 11 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE dev video shows work on engine trails, custom ship skins and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/eve-dev-video-shows-work-on-engine-trails-custom-ship-skins-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/eve-dev-video-shows-work-on-engine-trails-custom-ship-skins-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/eve-dev-video-shows-work-on-engine-trails-custom-ship-skins-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

OMG engine trails
If you're a fan of EVE Online, I apologise in advance for the funny looks you get when you jump out of your seat yelling "HELL YES!" while watching the latest In Development video. In this second part of CCP Games' new video devblog series, CCP Guard takes a live hand grenade into EVE Online's art department to show us just what's going on behind the scenes. We've already seen the impressive nebula effects and new Raven model due for release in the winter expansion, and today CCP showed off some massive shadow improvements, but those upcoming additions pale in comparison to what's planned for after the winter period.

The latest In Development video shows that CCP is currently working on engine trails, custom ship skins, a new cyno effect, a new warp tunnel, and graphical upgrades for every single ship in the game. It's a tall order, one that's unlikely to be fulfilled in the winter expansion despite developers' recent laser focus on delivering new features. The video gives a sneak peek at the models for the Amarr and Caldari tier 3 battlecruisers, which were selected from fan-submitted entries to last year's design contest in a similar manner to the already revealed Minmatar Tornado and Gallente Talos.

Read on to find out why custom ship skins are more work to implement than most of us realise and to watch the new video in HD.

Continue reading EVE dev video shows work on engine trails, custom ship skins and more

MassivelyEVE dev video shows work on engine trails, custom ship skins and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrartart-departmentbattlecruiserBenjamin-Bohnblogcaldariccpccp-eveccp-gamesccp-guardcustom-skinsdevblogengine-trailseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinegallentein-developmentminmatarpaint-jobsship-skinsskinstalostornadov3-projectvideovideo-devblogvideo-developer-diaryTue, 01 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE dev blog talks new Minmatar battlecruiser]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/eve-dev-blog-talks-new-minmatar-battlecruiser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/eve-dev-blog-talks-new-minmatar-battlecruiser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/eve-dev-blog-talks-new-minmatar-battlecruiser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Tornado battlecruiserMore good news for EVE Online fans just showed up on the sci-fi sandbox game's official website. It turns out that CCP wasn't kidding when it said it has shifted its focus back to internet spaceships.

The latest EVE dev blog features a couple of images of the new Minmatar Tornado battlecruiser as well as a bit of verbiage confirming that CCP will be announcing the ship's factional counterparts in the coming weeks.

And yes, we did say battlecruiser, since CCP has thought better of its original plan to release the Tornado as a battleship. "When reviewing the armadas of existing ships we came to the conclusion that it would make much more sense to add another tier of battlecruisers instead of a fourth battleship tier, and that the accessibility of BC skills would mean more of these ships might be in the hands of younger, brasher pilots. That means more pew pew pew overall," CCP Guard writes.

MassivelyEVE dev blog talks new Minmatar battlecruiser originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlecruiserbattleshipccpccp-gamesccp-guarddev-blogdev-diaryeveeve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsminmatarmore-pew-pewnew-edennew-shipssandboxsci-fitornadoFri, 21 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE adds more racial captain's quarters to test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/eve-adds-more-racial-captains-quarters-to-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/eve-adds-more-racial-captains-quarters-to-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/eve-adds-more-racial-captains-quarters-to-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Gallente captain's quarters
Those of you chafing under the constraints of the Minmatar captain's quarters released earlier this summer as part of EVE Online's Incarna expansion have reason to celebrate. The other three racially themed quarters have just been deployed to Singularity (that's the test server, for you EVE newbs).

When we say racially themed, we don't mean like an Al Sharpton monologue but rather like the Gallente, Caldari, and Amarr races who, along with the Minmatar, make up EVE's four playable factions. A new dev blog hits the highlights of each CQ, and each one boasts a visual aesthetic that mirrors its race.

Gallente quarters, for example, are "are slick and streamlined -- comfort through elegant design. The mirror is also prominent, since the Gallenteans are known to spend a lot of time in front of it." The Minmatar pad has also been tweaked, and you can read all the details at the official EVE website. Before you go, check out the preview video after the cut.

[Update: CCP has also uploaded a video explaining the new time dilation feature.]

Continue reading EVE adds more racial captain's quarters to test server

MassivelyEVE adds more racial captain's quarters to test server originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldaricaptains-quartersccpccp-gamescqeveeve-onlinegallenteincarnaminmatarsci-fiscifisingularitytest-servertrailervideoFri, 30 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Minmatar captain's quarters coming to EVE Online test server this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/minmatar-captains-quarters-coming-to-eve-online-test-server-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/minmatar-captains-quarters-coming-to-eve-online-test-server-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/minmatar-captains-quarters-coming-to-eve-online-test-server-thi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Get ready, capsuleers. Captain's quarters are coming, and sooner than you might expect. CCP Tanis breaks the news that a rough version of the Minmatar captain's quarters will be making an appearance on the Duality test server this Thursday, April 21st.

That's right: Two days hence, all you Brutors, Sebiestors, and Vherokiors will finally be able to walk around on your own two legs inside of the EVE Online client. CCP's newest dev blog cautions that the test environment is a true work-in-progress, and Tanis states that "we're still at the chisel-in-hand-in-front-of-a-marble-form stage."

Why make the environment available to the public at this point? CCP is mainly looking to gather feedback and general impressions on usability, since the captain's quarters interface is eventually slated to replace the current in-game hangar view. The test run will also feature new in-station and crash course tutorials as well as interfaces for planetary interaction, corporation management, avatar re-customization, and ship fitting.

In other EVE Online news, the new Council of Stellar Management held its first fireside chat a few days ago, and an audio recording of the broadcast is now available for download on the official EVE forums.

MassivelyMinmatar captain's quarters coming to EVE Online test server this week originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambulationaudiocaptains-quartersccpccp-gamesccp-taniscouncil-of-stellar-managementcsmdev-blogdev-diarydualityeveeve-onlinefeedbackfireside-chatincarnainterfaceminmatarsandboxsci-fitest-environmenttest-serverwalking-in-stationswooooooTue, 19 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Squish]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/one-shots-squish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/one-shots-squish/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/one-shots-squish/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Most of the fun of EVE Online, many players might well agree, is never knowing just who or what you're going to run into while flying around in New Eden. With that said, we've never really seen something like this happen before. This Minmatar Rifter -- an inexpensive ship with good speed and firepower -- seems to have attracted a squishy passenger, intent on catching a ride. Thankfully, the EVE Online pilot Shrqansh managed to grab a screenshot of it for us before the situation changed. He explains:

"I dearly love my Rifter and its fancy grillwork, but, just as when barreling down a highway, one's grillwork is likely to catch bugs. Here's a story of two trajectories -- somebody's mining drone and my beloved. I never could shake it out, not until I finally warped out and gave the bug a taste of hyperspace."

If you've spotted something silly in your favorite MMO, why not snap a screenshot of it and send it in? We love to see the odd things going on in games. Email the image to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. Please make sure it's at least 1024 pixels wide and has as few visible UI elements as possible. We'll post it out here for everyone to enjoy and give you the credit for sending it in. Easy!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Squish originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 May 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-onlinemining-droneminmatarone-shotsrifterscreenshotscreenshotsShrqanshMon, 24 May 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE video corner: "Future Proof"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/eve-video-corner-future-proof/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/eve-video-corner-future-proof/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/eve-video-corner-future-proof/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There's no doubt about it that EVE Online can produce some stunning visuals and incredible stories. New Eden has been the setting for countless creative works, some featuring real gameplay and events and others pushing the limits of the prime fiction. Every so often, I come across a video so mind-blowing that it has to be shared. Last night CrazyKinux's Musing pointed me toward an awesome new EVE video that's been seven months in the making.

Produced by Kale Ryoko, "Future Proof" tells the tale of a Caldari militia fleet on a combat mission for the state. Headed up by support commander Firefox of the Chimera "Overlord", the fleet must do all it takes to push through to their objective. Assisting with this twelve minute masterpiece is Veto corporation's Kyoko Sadako, the mastermind behind such incredible videos as "War Has Come" and "The Angel Cartel (Push Eject)". Made using some of EVE's art assets and the Unreal 3 Engine, Future Proof is a video that simply must be seen.

Skip past the cut to watch both parts of the video in HD. The original version is available for download at the video's official page on the EVE forums.

Continue reading EVE video corner: "Future Proof"

MassivelyEVE video corner: "Future Proof" originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caldariccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineeve-video-cornerfaction-warfarefactional-warfarefictionfilmkale-ryokokyoko-sakodaminmatarpvpstorystorytellingunreal-3-engineunreal-engineunreal-engine-3vetoveto-corpvideovideosWed, 31 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New EVE Online novel "The Burning Life" released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/28/new-eve-online-novel-the-burning-life-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/28/new-eve-online-novel-the-burning-life-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/28/new-eve-online-novel-the-burning-life-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Storyline is an important part of any MMO and EVE Online is no exception. New Eden is steeped in story-telling, from the regularly released fictional chronicles to the countless blogs, battle reports and dramatic events recorded by players. EVE is a game that lends itself very well to creating immersive stories, videos and other creative efforts. Back in June of 2008, CCP commissioned author Tony Gonzales to write a novel set in the EVE universe. The novel, titled "Empyrean Age," came at the same time as the expansion of the same name and gave some background story for faction warfare. June 2009 brought the announcement that CCP's own fiction-writer Hjalti Daníelsson had begun work on a second EVE novel entitled "EVE: The Burning Life." Hjalti is better known as CCP Abraxis, the pen behind most of the EVE chronicles and the current driving force behind the game's storyline.

Continue reading New EVE Online novel "The Burning Life" released

MassivelyNew EVE Online novel "The Burning Life" released originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AmarrCaldariccpccp-abraxasccp-eveccp-gamesdevblogeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineeve-the-burning-lifeGallentehjalti-danielssonloreMinmatarnovelNovelizationpiratepirate-factionspiratesstorystorylinethe-burning-lifeSun, 28 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 1: The healers of EVE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/21/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-1-the-healers-of-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/21/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-1-the-healers-of-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/21/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-1-the-healers-of-eve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The holy trinity of tank, healer and damage-dealer is present in every MMO, including EVE Online. While most MMOs dedicate these roles to specific classes, ships in EVE can do all three at the same time. When running missions solo, for example, a ship will need to tank incoming damage, repair it and deal damage themselves. Setting up a ship for solo PvE becomes a balancing act between the three roles. Too little tank and you'll find yourself in trouble, but too little damage and you'll take forever to kill NPCs.

As part of a gang, however, remote armour repair and shield transfer modules allow pilots to specialise into a traditional healer role. Rather than having each player repair their own damage, it can be much more effective to have a dedicated medic ship to repair anyone that gets shot at. There are even specialised ships for would-be healers in EVE, from entry-level cruisers to advanced Tech 2 Logistics ships and massive capital ships. Medic ships can be an effective part of any gang, whether you're tackling a tough level 4 or 5 mission or engaging in large-scale gang PvP.

In this first part of a two-part look into dedicated healers in EVE Online, I look at the more affordable ships and modules available and the best strategy for healing in PvE.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 1: The healers of EVE

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 1: The healers of EVE originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpccp-eveccp-gamesdpseveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedgallentegroupgroupsguardianguidehealerhealershealinglogisticsminmataroneirossolotanktankingtipstips-and-tricksSun, 21 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Trade hubs of New Eden - Caldari and Minmatar page 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/24/eve-evolved-trade-hubs-of-new-eden-caldari-and-minmatar-page/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/24/eve-evolved-trade-hubs-of-new-eden-caldari-and-minmatar-page/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/24/eve-evolved-trade-hubs-of-new-eden-caldari-and-minmatar-page/#commentsContinue reading EVE Evolved: Trade hubs of New Eden - Caldari and Minmatar page 2

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Trade hubs of New Eden - Caldari and Minmatar page 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caldariccpccp-gameseconomyeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineguideheimatarhekjitaloremetropolisminmatarmotsurenssandboxthe-citadelthe-forgetradetrade-hubtradingSun, 24 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Trade hubs of New Eden - Caldari and Minmatar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/24/eve-evolved-trade-hubs-of-new-eden-caldari-and-minmatar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/24/eve-evolved-trade-hubs-of-new-eden-caldari-and-minmatar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/24/eve-evolved-trade-hubs-of-new-eden-caldari-and-minmatar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

A natural consequence of EVE Online's sandbox style market system is that eventually the players will form trade hubs around the most heavily used areas. Before the four empires began gearing up for war, the main trade hub of New Eden was in Yulai, the CONCORD headquarters system with super-highway stargates into the heart of each empire's space. When the super-highways were dismantled, Yulai became more difficult to get to and its popularity as a trade hub dissolved. It was eventually superceded by Jita, a Caldari system in The Forge region. But while Jita is EVE's biggest and most notable trade hub, it's not the only one by a long shot. Smaller hubs have always tended to erupt around centres of population and activity such as popular mission-running systems or the borders of warzones. Understandably, it's traders who reap the largest benefit from knowing all the best trade hubs. Trading in multiple regions can reduce the risk of competition and increase the volume of their sales.

In this two-part series, I look at some of EVE's biggest trade hubs, what can be found there and how to use them to your advantage as a trader. In today's first part I look at a few of the biggest Caldari and Minmatar trade hubs.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Trade hubs of New Eden - Caldari and Minmatar

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Trade hubs of New Eden - Caldari and Minmatar originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caldariccpccp-gameseconomyeveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedguideheimatarhekjitaloremetropolisminmatarmotsurenssandboxthe-citadelthe-forgetradetrade-hubtradingSun, 24 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE's animated hangar backgrounds available as high-def downloads]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/eves-animated-hangar-backgrounds-available-as-high-def-download/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/eves-animated-hangar-backgrounds-available-as-high-def-download/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/eves-animated-hangar-backgrounds-available-as-high-def-download/#commentsFiled under: , ,


EVE Online players who were fortunate enough to attend Fanfest in 2009 kept raving about a collection of animated video backgrounds that were running on screens during panels and presentations. Players were so taken with these that they'd been pressing CCP Games to make them available for download. CCP delivered on their promise this week, making these sweeping tours of the Gallente, Caldari, Amarr, and Minmatar space station interiors available for download in HD.

Once you see them, you'll probably understand why the EVE Fanfest attendees have been wanting them ever since. Those are some fairly hefty file sizes though, so for a quick look you can also see all four of the hangars and a nice selection of each race's ships in HD on YouTube. Stick with us past the jump for a look within an Amarr hangar which shows off the theocratic race's golden fleet.

Continue reading EVE's animated hangar backgrounds available as high-def downloads

MassivelyEVE's animated hangar backgrounds available as high-def downloads originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpccp-gameseveeve-fanfesteve-onlinegallentehdhigh-defminmatarvideoyoutubeTue, 19 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: The faction warfare mission debacle, page 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/eve-evolved-the-faction-warfare-mission-debacle-page-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/eve-evolved-the-faction-warfare-mission-debacle-page-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/eve-evolved-the-faction-warfare-mission-debacle-page-3/#commentsContinue reading EVE Evolved: The faction warfare mission debacle, page 3

MassivelyEVE Evolved: The faction warfare mission debacle, page 3 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrarmageddoncaldariccpccp-gamesDominiondominixempyrean-ageeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionexploitexposeexposedfactionfactional-warfarefleetgallentegangminmatarnavypvpscorpionstrategytyphoonwarfareSun, 06 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: The faction warfare mission debacle, page 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/eve-evolved-the-faction-warfare-mission-debacle-page-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/eve-evolved-the-faction-warfare-mission-debacle-page-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/eve-evolved-the-faction-warfare-mission-debacle-page-2/#commentsContinue reading EVE Evolved: The faction warfare mission debacle, page 2

MassivelyEVE Evolved: The faction warfare mission debacle, page 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrarmageddoncaldariccpccp-gamesDominiondominixempyrean-ageeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionexploitexposeexposedfactionfactional-warfarefleetgallentegangminmatarnavypvpscorpionstrategytyphoonwarfareSun, 06 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: The faction warfare mission debacle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/eve-evolved-the-faction-warfare-mission-debacle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/eve-evolved-the-faction-warfare-mission-debacle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/eve-evolved-the-faction-warfare-mission-debacle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

When faction warfare went live with EVE Online's Empyrean Age expansion back in the summer of 2008, It was a magnificent success. It was intended as a way for newer players to get into PvP and as a stepping stone from the safe haven of empire to full-on sovereignty warfare. It wasn't long before large fleets were duking it out in low security space and for a time, it was great. Eventually, problems began to come to light that demanded developer attention. Capturing exploits and a lack of rewards were causing players to leave the war and after a year with no development, faction warfare was looking abandoned.

Rewards were eventually implemented in an attempt to revitalise the ageing faction warfare system and promote PvP. With the Dominion expansion came the most anticipated of those rewards - new tier 1 navy battleships available only from the faction warfare loyalty point store. Since the announcement that they were coming, mission-runners have been farming faction warfare missions like crazy for loyalty points. The promise of unique rewards from the missions was intended to revitalise the game and give pilots something to fight over. But did the rewards really improve faction warfare and promote PvP or was it a huge mistake?

In this three page exposé, I run down the history of faction warfare missions, from the development mistakes to the EVE corp that made almost enough ISK to build a titan. Did the mission buff revitalise faction warfare or did it put the final nail in its coffin? And just how did mission-runners make billions of ISK?

Continue reading EVE Evolved: The faction warfare mission debacle

MassivelyEVE Evolved: The faction warfare mission debacle originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrarmageddoncaldariccpccp-gamesDominiondominixempyrean-ageeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionexploitexposeexposedfactionfactional-warfarefeaturedfleetgallentegangminmatarnavypvpscorpionstrategytyphoonwarfareSun, 06 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP Games drops more details on EVE's new mission arcs for pirate factions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/ccp-games-drops-more-details-on-eves-new-mission-arcs-for-pirat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/ccp-games-drops-more-details-on-eves-new-mission-arcs-for-pirat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/ccp-games-drops-more-details-on-eves-new-mission-arcs-for-pirat/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We recently wrote a bit about the new PvE content coming to EVE Online in the Dominion expansion -- Epic Mission Arcs for the Angel Cartel and Guristas pirate factions where your speed will help you survive. Now CCP Games has dropped more info on these branching pirate missions; the Guristas arc is called "Smash and Grab" while the Angel Cartel arc is "Angel Sound". A dev blog written by CCP Jasonitas walks readers through the standings requirements -- if your Angel Cartel standings are horrible but you have decent standings with either the Minmatar or Amarr, you can still run the Angel arc. Likewise with the Guristas, your Caldari or Gallente faction standings will let you embark on the Guristas pirate arc.

In some respects, these arcs will open up pirate faction mission running for many players, given that completion of an arc will impart a 30% standings gain towards that faction. Players have long wanted a way to repair their negative standings towards New Eden's pirate factions and this seems to be the first step towards that. Still, that standings gain won't benefit players who are particularly loathed by a given pirate faction unless the arcs can be repeated some months down the line as with standard Epic Mission Arcs.

Continue reading CCP Games drops more details on EVE's new mission arcs for pirate factions

MassivelyCCP Games drops more details on EVE's new mission arcs for pirate factions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrangel-cartelangel-soundcaldariccp-jasonitasdev-blogdominionepic-mission-arcseveeve-onlineexpansionsgallenteguristasinterceptorsminmatarmission-runningnew-edenpiratepirate-factionspirate-missionspvesmash-and-grabspeed-boat-missionsstandingsWed, 18 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Mission-running ship design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/05/eve-evolved-mission-running-ship-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/05/eve-evolved-mission-running-ship-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/05/eve-evolved-mission-running-ship-design/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

In last week's first instalment of this guide, I explained the basics of mission-running in EVE Online and how to find your best agent. In this second part of the guide, I get into the nitty gritty details of essential ship designs for mission-runners. Choosing an appropriate ship and fitting it adequately are arguably the two most important factors in mission-running. While having a weak mission strategy and poor support skills can cause a lot of bother, a poorly designed ship is almost guaranteed death on some of the tougher missions. With the advice in this guide, a little research and a good deal of practice, you'll be well on your way to becoming a mission guru.

Read after the cut for a race-by-race break-down of EVE's most popular and effective mission-running ships, complete with links to some further reading and popular mission fittings.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Mission-running ship design

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Mission-running ship design originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpccp-gameseveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedgallentejoystiqfeaturesminmatarmissionshiptankSun, 05 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Minmatar stargate]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/08/one-shots-minmatar-stargate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/08/one-shots-minmatar-stargate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/08/one-shots-minmatar-stargate/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Known as the tribal race in EVE Online, the Minmatar have spent years being ground under the heels of the Amarr empire. According to lore, they have been enslaved by them, and those who have escaped or evaded capture banded together in a tribal affiliation. Their architecture, while just as useful as that of other races, tends to be towards the ragged-looking, angular and sharp side, as if it was put together on the run, or out of found parts. Today's EVE Online One Shots was sent in to us by Sered Woolahra, who captured a shot of this decrepit-looking Minmatar stargate while flying around deadspace in New Eden.

Have you found an interesting set of ruins, or near-ruins, in your favorite MMO? If so, we'd love to see them. Just email them to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name and the game it's from. A description is always welcome, but not required. We'll post them out here and give you the credit for sending the screenshot in.

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Minmatar stargate originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrccpcrowd-control-productionsdeadspacedeadspace-complexeveeve-onlineminmatarone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssered-woolahraSun, 08 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Slave emancipation a major change in EVE Online's lore]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/28/slave-emancipation-a-major-change-in-eve-onlines-lore/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/28/slave-emancipation-a-major-change-in-eve-onlines-lore/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/28/slave-emancipation-a-major-change-in-eve-onlines-lore/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


A significant twist in EVE Online's lore was announced on Christmas day: emancipation for much of the subjugated Minmatar race. EVE's far-future galactic setting of New Eden is characterized by struggles between the four (playable) races. Of those races, the dynamic between the theocratic but cruel Amarr and the tribal Minmatar is often one of master and servant. The Amarr enslaved the Minmatar race centuries ago; this is a prevalent aspect of the backstory (lore), the game's missions (quests) and factional warfare, as well as a focal point of the roleplaying that some players opt to engage in. Even some player alliances have taken a stance for or against slavery in the game. (Those who don't play EVE might be surprised to learn that slaves can be bought and sold on the open market as a low-cost commodity. Note, however, that the players themselves cannot be forced into slavery. It's just an aspect of the setting... one which is intended to evoke response from the players.)

CCP Games has decided this change in the Amarr-Minmatar dynamic was warranted in terms of New Eden's backstory, with the freed slaves numbering in the hundreds of millions, although the existence of slavery in EVE is still far from being abolished.

Continue reading Slave emancipation a major change in EVE Online's lore

MassivelySlave emancipation a major change in EVE Online's lore originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Dec 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrbackstorybirth-of-new-edenbreakingccpccp-gamesemancipationempressempyrean-ageeveeve-onlinefactional-warfarejamyl-sarumloreminmatarnew-edenquestsroleplayroleplayingsci-fislaveslaverySun, 28 Dec 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Angel at war]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/28/one-shots-angel-at-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/28/one-shots-angel-at-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/28/one-shots-angel-at-war/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The ships in EVE Online may be varied in look, size, and function - but all of them are extremely well modeled and lovely to look at. As many only get a chance to see other ships in battle, we're glad to present this ship today as part of One Shots. This particular screenshot comes to us from our very own Brendan "Nyphur" Drain, who writes the entertainingly informative column for us, EVE Evolved. Brendan tells us a bit about this ship today: This is an NPC Angel battleship. The Guardian Angels are a pirate faction that use primarily Minmatar weaponry such as auto-cannons and artillery. The ship seen here is called a Machariel and a version of it is available for players, with limited run blueprints dropped as rare loot at the end of hard-to-find complexes (dungeons).

If you've got screenshots, we need them! One Shots is best when it has community input, so we're reaching out to you. We're looking for any and all screenshots that you think are cool. Have something to show off that you're proud of? Want to tell everyone how cool your group of MMO friends are? Or maybe you just found some area, npc, or the like that you think is pretty awesome and should be shown off. Whatever your reasons, we want to hear from you. Grab a screenshot (or a bunch) and send them to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, game and any other information you'd like to add. We'll post your screen and share your tale with all the Massively readers worldwide!

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Angel at war originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brendan-drainccpcrowd-control-productionseve-evolvedeve-onlineguardian-angelsmacharielminmatarnyphurone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotsFri, 28 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively interviews Clear Skies creator Ian Chisholm]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/08/massively-interviews-clear-skies-creator-ian-chisholm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/08/massively-interviews-clear-skies-creator-ian-chisholm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/08/massively-interviews-clear-skies-creator-ian-chisholm/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


One of the most significant works of machinima created in recent years is Clear Skies, an unconventional amalgam of the gritty, far future setting of EVE Online tempered with a more human touch, imbued with life through clever writing and exacting manipulation of Half-Life 2 character models. Fans and critics alike have praised Clear Skies since its release. Indeed, the film recently took top honors at Machinima Filmfest 2008, garnering a Mackie award for Best Long Format Film.

This success at the festival was met with astonishment from Clear Skies creator Ian Chisholm as well as from his collaborators, John Guthrie and Richie Powles. But it was decidedly less of a surprise to the many fans of the film, a seemingly ever-growing number judging by the number of times Clear Skies has been downloaded from EVE-Files.

Massively recently caught up with Clear Skies creator Ian Chisholm, who was gracious enough to provide us with a sequence of production stills from Clear Skies 2, explaining how he brings a scene to life in stages from voice recording, to choreography, to the culmination of this work in the final footage. While we had his attention, Ian also discussed what drives a man to dedicate years of his life to a project of this caliber, and what he has in store for us with Clear Skies 2.

Gallery: Behind the scenes of Clear Skies 2

Raw voice recordingLipsyncingChoreographyHammer map editorShot from final footage

Continue reading Massively interviews Clear Skies creator Ian Chisholm

MassivelyMassively interviews Clear Skies creator Ian Chisholm originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-scenesccpccp-gamesclear-skiesclear-skies-2cultureeveeve-onlinefeaturedfilmhalf-life-2half-life2ian-chisholminterviewsjohn-guthriejoystiqfeaturesmachinimamachinima-filmfestmachinima-filmfest-2008massively-interviewsminmatarrichie-powlessci-fivideovideosSat, 08 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New EVE Online video advances backstory]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/new-eve-online-video-advances-backstory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/new-eve-online-video-advances-backstory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/new-eve-online-video-advances-backstory/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Fans of EVE Online's backstory will want to see CCP's latest video tied into the game's lore. The two previous videos CCP Games released were linked to the events that unfolded in The Empyrean Age novel, as broadcast by The Scope news agency: 'Alexander Noir's' suicide attack obliterating hopes for peace between the Gallente and Caldari races, and the unified showing of Minmatar strength that served as a threat to those who would hinder their race's pursuit of freedom.

The latest video, from Amarr Certified News, shows the full might of the Amarr Imperial Domain Fleet, with a multitude of Avatar titans and Revelation dreadnaughts arrayed in elaborate formation, heralding the arrival of their newly coronated Empress, Jamyl Sarum. Having successfully navigated her way to the top while usurping her formidable adversaries, Empress Jamyl Sarum's rise to prominence establishes her as, quite possibly, the most powerful individual in New Eden. All of New Eden witnesses her broadcast, and hears her proclaim, "I am the harbinger of hope. I am the sword of the righteous. And to all who hear my words, I say this: What you give to this Empire, I shall give back unto you." While the theocratic Amarr will operate under some new guiding principles through her rule, it's clear that the Reclamation will proceed, and world after world will come under her control as she 'saves all those wayward children, from themselves.' You can view the video footage of Empress Jamyl Sarum's coronation speech after the cut, as she ushers in a new age for the Amarr race, and for New Eden itself.

Continue reading New EVE Online video advances backstory

MassivelyNew EVE Online video advances backstory originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexander-noiramarramarr-certified-newsbackstorycaldariccpccp-gamescoronationeveeve-onlinegallentejamyl-sarumloreminmatarracesreclamationsci-fistorylinethe-scopethukkerthukker-tribevideoSat, 11 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Visual Guide: The Birth of New Eden]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/eve-visual-guide-the-birth-of-new-eden/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/eve-visual-guide-the-birth-of-new-eden/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/eve-visual-guide-the-birth-of-new-eden/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The backstory of EVE Online is one of the game's major strengths. Not all players immerse themselves in the setting, which is a shame as the backstory -- built up over years -- is rich. No epic science fiction tale is without a grand struggle, and the story of EVE is one of the corrupting interplay of high technology and the power it brings, generation upon generation.

EVE's backstory is a departure from the established notions of 'good vs. evil'; even its villains can become heroes in the gritty setting of New Eden. As the empires created by EVE's pilots rise and fall with relentless alliance warfare in 0.0 space, as they lend their strength to causes in the factional warfare of the Empyrean Age, they take the concepts established in the backstory and run with them -- in some respects, making the game into what they want it to be. The Birth of New Eden is a visual tour of the backstory of EVE, from humanity's first steps beyond the EVE Gate into the unknown, to the sweeping conflict of The Empyrean Age.

Gallery: The Birth of New Eden

In the beginning...The first stargatesRuthless corporations seize powerThe discovery of the EVE GateThe collapse

MassivelyEVE Visual Guide: The Birth of New Eden originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allianceamarrbackstorybirth-of-new-edencaldaricapsuleercapsuleersccpccp-gamesconcordempyrean-ageeveeve-gateeve-onlineeve-visual-guideeve-visual-guidesfeaturedfictiongallentejovejovianjoystiqfeaturesloremilitiaminmatarnew-edenpvepvpracessci-fistorylineterritorial-controlwarFri, 29 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Community Spotlight: Jade Constantine]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/eve-community-spotlight-jade-constantine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/eve-community-spotlight-jade-constantine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/13/eve-community-spotlight-jade-constantine/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jade Constantine is a veteran player of EVE Online, long known for having a forceful personality and a flair for writing. As the CEO of Jericho Fraction and the head of The Star Fraction alliance, Jade has become a pioneer in EVE roleplay, upholding ideologies of freedom that run counter to some of the very systems that define the game.

Along the way, Jade has made some enemies, but clearly some allies as well, having garnered the most votes in the Council of Stellar Management (CSM) election. As Chairman of the CSM, Jade Constantine is a magnet for controversy, but as an elected delegate, is also in a unique position to deal directly with CCP Games and potentially change EVE. Massively recently spoke with Jade on the state of roleplaying in EVE Online, the challenges that the CSM faces, and what it's like to be under the magnifying glass.

Continue reading EVE Community Spotlight: Jade Constantine

MassivelyEVE Community Spotlight: Jade Constantine originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allianceamarrbackstorycaldaricapsuleerccpccp-gamesceocommunitycommunity-spotlightcorpcorporationcouncilcsmempyrean-ageeveeve-community-spotlighteve-onlineexpansionexpansionsfactionfactional-warfarefeaturedgallentegame-mechanicsjadejade-constantinejericho-fractionjoystiqfeaturesmilitiaminmatarpoliticsroleplayroleplayingrpsandboxstar-fractionWed, 13 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP Games releases faction overview for EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/02/ccp-games-releases-faction-overview-for-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/02/ccp-games-releases-faction-overview-for-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/02/ccp-games-releases-faction-overview-for-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


For participants in EVE Online's factional warfare in the Empyrean Age expansion, it's common knowledge that there are four races embroiled in conflict. However, CCP Games has decided to add some more variety to the roles that EVE players can assume. To that end, EVE dev Matthew Woodward (aka CCP Greyscale) created a political overview for those who wish to immerse themselves a bit more in the backstory, or for those who wish to assume roles in the factional struggle beyond what is currently known about the key races in EVE's setting of New Eden.

The cruel yet devoutly religious Amarr bring worlds and systems under their heel to 'save them from themselves.' They're opposed by the fractious Minmatar, a group of tribes resisting Amarr tyranny -- many of whom are chemically enslaved by a tailored virus and regular fixes of its narcotic treatment, ensuring their continued servitude to the Amarr.

Continue reading CCP Games releases faction overview for EVE Online

MassivelyCCP Games releases faction overview for EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrbackstorycaldariccpccp-gamesccp-greyscaleccp-wranglerempyrean-ageeveeve-onlineexpansionfactionfactional-warfareforumsgallenteguideguidesimmersionlorematthew-woodwardmilitiaminmatarpvpracesroleplayerroleplayingsci-fistorylineSat, 02 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Passes on sale for The Party at the Top of the World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/26/passes-on-sale-to-the-party-at-the-top-of-the-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/26/passes-on-sale-to-the-party-at-the-top-of-the-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/26/passes-on-sale-to-the-party-at-the-top-of-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

CCP has finally opened their war declaration on boring game conventions, opening up the sales for the much-anticipated passes to the EVE Online Fan Fest. Also known as "The Party at the Top of the World", this year's Fan Fest looks to be a continuation of the excitement and fun of years past!

Events scheduled for this year include all the regular events that EVE Online fans have come to love, such as PvP tournaments, lots of different presentations and panels, the Jita meetup and a silent auction. Additionally, this year players will get a chance to check out a special hands-on demo of the incoming Ambulation technology, which will allow players to finally break free of their pods! (You know, without the use of someone else's weaponry.)

Passes are on sale for $75 USD, which nets you a confirmation code to bring to the event for badge pickup. Spouse passes aren't available yet, but will only be available if you've already purchased a regular EVEnt pass. Also, if you need travel and hotel there are still some spots open in Icelandair's group packages, so be sure to book soon before they all run out!

MassivelyPasses on sale for The Party at the Top of the World originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpcrowd-control-productionseveeve-onlinefan-festfan-fest-2008gallenteminmatarparty-at-the-top-of-the-worldSat, 26 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Divinity and malevolence personified in latest EVE Chronicle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/divinity-and-malevolence-personified-in-latest-eve-chronicle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/divinity-and-malevolence-personified-in-latest-eve-chronicle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/divinity-and-malevolence-personified-in-latest-eve-chronicle/#commentsFiled under: , ,


CCP Games has been giving us a glimpse into the lives and motivations of the four leaders of the warring races in EVE Online, through a series of weekly Chronicles. Thus far we've seen the weight of years of struggle carried by the Minmatar leader, Sanmatar Maleatu Shakor, and the Gallente President Souro Foiritan forced to make horrific compromises to ensure the future of his people. We've also seen the questionable background of Tibus Heth, the head of the Caldari State. But it seems that CCP saved the best for last: Jamyl Sarum, Empress of the Amarr Empire, is by far the most forceful personality among the four -- a feared and loved ruler of billions.

And rightly so, we've witnessed how grandiose her actions tend to be in the Empyrean Age trailer; she commanded the battleship which obliterated a vastly superior Minmatar fleet which included a Ragnarok-class titan. This time, in "All These Wayward Children," it's her words that speak louder than her actions. The viewing platform of an Amarrian starship, bearing the newly-coronated Empress, is the setting for the final of the weekly Chronicles. "All These Wayward Children" shows her extreme beliefs about the divine imperative to conquer other civilizations and how she doesn't simply punish perceived wrongs; she exacts sadistic retribution upon her enemies, political and otherwise... her "Benediction."

Continue reading Divinity and malevolence personified in latest EVE Chronicle

MassivelyDivinity and malevolence personified in latest EVE Chronicle originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrbackstorycaldariccpccp-gameschroniclesempyrean-ageeveeve-chronicleseve-onlinefactionfactional-warfaregallentejamyl-sarumloremilitiaminmatarstorylinewarMon, 21 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lessons learned in Empyrean Age's factional warfare]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/lessons-learned-in-empyrean-ages-factional-warfare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/lessons-learned-in-empyrean-ages-factional-warfare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/lessons-learned-in-empyrean-ages-factional-warfare/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Podcasting hero Van Hemlock has been blogging about EVE Online quite a bit of late. His recent post 'The Lessons of War' chronicles his experience of learning the factional warfare rules of engagement in the Empyrean Age expansion. He writes about being a solo pilot for the Minmatar Tribal Liberation Force, when the entire militias of the Amarr and Caldari races have kill rights on him anytime and anywhere. It's even harder to do well when you're running with an alt fresh out of the academy but, win or lose, he seems to be having a good time.

Van Hemlock's approach is to spend very little on any individual ship (it's likely to be blown apart anyway) and learn what he can from the experience of trying to survive. As he explains a bit about the mechanics of factional warfare, and its objectives, Van Hemlock imparts three key bits of wisdom in "The Lessons of War...": there are ways of preventing a (single) rival from engaging you, flying fast and nimble can trump much greater firepower, and as fast as you may be -- there can always be someone faster who will try and take you out. Although he openly states that he doesn't know a great deal about PvP in EVE yet, it's clear that he's learning very quickly from his mistakes, and doing so with minimal emo rage. See Van Hemlock's "The Lessons of War" to learn a few things from his successes and failures in EVE Online, it's certainly a good read.

MassivelyLessons learned in Empyrean Age's factional warfare originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Jul 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrblogbloggerccpccp-gamesempyrean-ageeveeve-onlineexpansionfactionfactional-warfaregame-mechanicsmilitaminmatarpiratepodcastpodcastingpvpracessci-fivan-hemlockWed, 09 Jul 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Chronicle puts players at the center of factional warfare]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/eve-chronicle-puts-players-at-the-center-of-factional-warfare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/eve-chronicle-puts-players-at-the-center-of-factional-warfare/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/eve-chronicle-puts-players-at-the-center-of-factional-warfare/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The latest EVE Chronicle is called "The Dark End of Space." This installment connects the events seen in the full Empyrean Age trailer (namely, Jamyl Sarum's utter obliteration of a greater Minmatar fleet) with the lowsec militia conflicts and missions that have embroiled EVE Online's players in factional warfare. Indeed, "The Dark End of Space" focuses on how each of the four races -- despite having conflicting goals and ideologies -- view the capsuleers... the actual players in EVE Online: "A group of people so powerful they're practically a faction unto themselves. Immortal, fearless and wealthy beyond imagining. Born of all four empires but beholden, in truth, to no one but themselves. And utterly untapped, in this little skirmish of ours."

"The Dark End of Space" shows how each of the races face similar difficulties, and how the players of EVE are thought by each faction to be the solution to their problems. EVE dev CCP Abraxas says of the newest Chronicle: "... this one breaks rank and instead focuses on the capsuleers. It explains how we went from the end of the novel to the onset of factional warfare, and how you guys got pulled into it." This could get very interesting if factional propaganda enters into the game, with each race's militia trying to further sway the capsuleers to their cause and tip the balance of power in the Empyrean Age. But for the time being, the Empyrean Age novel, the trailer, and the Chronicles are intertwined, and it seems that EVE's players are firmly at the center of what is to come.

MassivelyEVE Chronicle puts players at the center of factional warfare originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrbackstorycaldaricapsuleerccpccp-abraxasccp-gameschronicleempyrean-ageeveeve-chronicleeve-onlinefactional-warfarefictiongallenteloremilitiaminmatarnovelpropagandapvepvproleplayingstorylineterritorial-controlMon, 07 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BattleClinic's exclusive Factional Warfare guide by CCP Games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/battleclinics-exclusive-factional-warfare-guide-by-ccp-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/battleclinics-exclusive-factional-warfare-guide-by-ccp-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/battleclinics-exclusive-factional-warfare-guide-by-ccp-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BattleClinic, a popular EVE Online web resource run by players, now has another thing going in its favor. Matthew Woodward, a Game Designer from CCP Games, has put together an in-character factional warfare guide, which is exclusive to the site. Woodward writes under the guise of one 'Sergeant-Major Illivia', and tries to whip the reader into shape as if they were a new recruit in Boot Camp.

Sergeant-Major Illivia's ranting introduction to factional warfare in the Empyrean Age walks you through militia enlistment, battlefield intelligence, your objectives in the war, and most importantly -- how to stay alive in EVE. It's a clever way of conveying what's involved in factional conflict to a prospective recruit, although Woodward/Illivia does make you feel like a whelp at times. Check out the "Faction Warfare Enlistment Debrief" at BattleClinic for fiction with practical applications.

MassivelyBattleClinic's exclusive Factional Warfare guide by CCP Games originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrbattlecliniccaldariccpccp-gamesdevdeveloperempyrean-ageeveeve-onlineexpansionfactionfactional-warfarefictiongallentegame-designgame-designergame-mechanicsguidematthew-woodwardminmatarpvpTue, 01 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP chronicles lives of Empyrean Age's warlike leaders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/ccp-chronicles-the-lives-of-empyrean-ages-warlike-leaders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/ccp-chronicles-the-lives-of-empyrean-ages-warlike-leaders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/ccp-chronicles-the-lives-of-empyrean-ages-warlike-leaders/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

CCP has announced a weekly series of chronicles -- short lore stories -- related to the EVE Online's Empyrean Age expansion. The first four will tell stories about the motivations of the heads of the four factions in this new time of war. The final chronicle will focus on regular ol' capsuleers.

The first chronicle -- titled "Silent Furies" -- is available now. It's a talky story starring Sanmatar Maleatu Shakor, the head honcho of the Minmatar faction. Check it out if you're really into EVE lore. Needless to say, though, you don't need to know any of this stuff to just log in and blow people up.

In the event that you do read it, CCP has provided an official forum thread for chronicle-related discussions.

MassivelyCCP chronicles lives of Empyrean Age's warlike leaders originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicleempyrean-ageeve-onlinefictionforumloreminmatarsanmatar-maleatu-shakorsilent-furiesstoryTue, 24 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Van Hemlock: The distrust of recruits and the path of acceptance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/van-hemlock-the-distrust-of-recruits-and-the-path-of-acceptance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/van-hemlock-the-distrust-of-recruits-and-the-path-of-acceptance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/van-hemlock-the-distrust-of-recruits-and-the-path-of-acceptance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Podcaster and PlanetSide-fragger extraordinaire Van Hemlock recently had a look at EVE Online's Empyrean Age expansion, and gave his take on what's needed to get the most from factional warfare. He tackled The Empyrean Age in two parts: The Distrust of Recruits... and The Path of Acceptance.

In The Distrust of Recruits, Van Hemlock was surprised that factional warfare isn't quite as accessible as he envisioned. He wasn't daunted though, and prepared to move his main character into the battlefield. Except, there were one or two issues. Perhaps the main one, which is a core mantra in EVE, is that you "don't fly what you can't afford to lose." By joining up with any of the militia, you become a war target for two other factions, who will attempt to kill you on sight -- no matter where they see you. No matter what you've done. That's the price you pay for access to this level of PvP, a first in the game, but for some that price tag is too steep.

Continue reading Van Hemlock: The distrust of recruits and the path of acceptance

MassivelyVan Hemlock: The distrust of recruits and the path of acceptance originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpccp-gamesempyrean-ageeveeve-onlinefactionfactional-warfaregallentegrindminmatarmissionmissionspvpstandingsvan-hemlockMon, 16 Jun 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Empyrean Age opinions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/the-daily-grind-empyrean-age-opinions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/the-daily-grind-empyrean-age-opinions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/the-daily-grind-empyrean-age-opinions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Tranquility came up earlier than originally projected, and many EVE Online players got to jump out and enjoy some good old fashioned (new fashioned?) factional warfare. For some others, it was business as usual, forming up fleets for mining ops, ratting, or running things all over the place. But for those of you who got a chance to get out there and get your hands dirty in EVE's new factional warfare, we thought we'd ask this morning -- how are you enjoying the Empyrean Age? Is this the next best thing to sliced bread, or what? Or do you really not care so much, and are perhaps waiting instead for something totally new like the upcoming addition of ambulation? Tell us your front-line stories and observations!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Empyrean Age opinions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpempyrean-ageeveeve-onlinefactional-warfaregallentegetting-poddedminmataropinionthe-daily-grindWed, 11 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online meets Half-Life 2 in machinima masterpiece]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/eve-online-meets-half-life-2-in-machinima-masterpiece/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/eve-online-meets-half-life-2-in-machinima-masterpiece/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/eve-online-meets-half-life-2-in-machinima-masterpiece/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Clear Skies is a groundbreaking machinima produced by Ian Chisholm, which takes place entirely within the galactic setting of EVE Online, known as New Eden. Any attempt to lump Clear Skies in with your run-of-the-mill machinima would be a disservice to the scope of the work; the film clocks in at just under 40 minutes and was a labor of love for two years in the lives of its creators.

Clear Skies follows a trio of down-and-out misfits who've seen no end of bad luck. John Rourke is the obstinate captain of the Clear Skies, a Tempest class battleship manufactured by the downtrodden Minmatar race of New Eden. Rourke's attitude toward his hazardous chosen lifestyle is cavalier, although this does not sit well with his friends among the crew. Solomon Burke is the pessimistic ship's engineer, while Charlie Fodder -- a gunner with an ironic name -- does his best to keep the crew alive. Typical of life in New Eden, Fodder is doomed to remain a rather busy man.

Continue reading EVE Online meets Half-Life 2 in machinima masterpiece

MassivelyEVE Online meets Half-Life 2 in machinima masterpiece originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycaldariccpccp-gameschribbaclear-skieseveeve-fileseve-onlinehalf-life-2hl-2humorloremachinimaminmatarnew-edenpurepure-alliancesci-fistorylinevideoMon, 09 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Empyrean Age details revealed in EVE developer chat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/empyrean-age-details-revealed-in-eve-developer-chat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/empyrean-age-details-revealed-in-eve-developer-chat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/empyrean-age-details-revealed-in-eve-developer-chat/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


MMORPG.com invited a few of the EVE Online staff from CCP Games to participate in a live developer chat this past Sunday. MMORPG.com was kind enough to provide a complete log of the chat, which was hosted by their own Community Manager, Laura 'Taera' Genender. Among the EVE Online devs present were CCP Greyscale (game designer/factional warfare), CCP Ginger (ISD manager/storyline), t0nyG (lead writer), and CCP Wrangler (community manager).

The developer chat was primarily focused on the changes that The Empyrean Age and its factional warfare will bring, but the CCP staff addressed a number of other issues and concerns as well:

Continue reading Empyrean Age details revealed in EVE developer chat

MassivelyEmpyrean Age details revealed in EVE developer chat originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingamarrbountybounty-huntingcaldariccpccp-gamesconcorddevdev-chatempyrean-ageeveeve-onlinefactionfactional-warfaregallentegame-mechanicsminmatarmmorpgpiracypiratepvepvpterritorial-controlterritorytvTue, 03 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Weekend ratting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/one-shots-weekend-ratting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/one-shots-weekend-ratting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/one-shots-weekend-ratting/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


As you may already know, we've been looking for a few good pilots to join our ranks here at Massively. The competition has been extremely tough, but we're almost at the end of the process. (Thank you for those who have been hanging in there!) To relax, some of us have been hanging out in EVE, enjoying many of the different aspects of game-play. Today's One Shot comes from one such (noob) adventure -- mine! This was taken while running a mission in Minmatar space, with a pile of rats bearing down on me, and a mining colony to save. Also: yum, lots of salvage.

Do you have a great screenshot of Corp war, or of something equally exciting sitting in your screenshot folder gathering virtual dust? Why let it languish? Send those screenshots on to us at oneshots@massively.com along with whatever information you'd like to tell us about the scene in the picture. It could be here next. Until then, fly safe!

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Weekend ratting originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpEVEEVE-onlinefeaturedminingminmatarone-shotsratsrattingrifterscreenshotSat, 22 Mar 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Fan Fest is here]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/eve-fan-faire-is-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/eve-fan-faire-is-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/eve-fan-faire-is-here/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Amarr and Minmatar come together at the top of the world for what CCP touts as a "party like no other." For those of you not familiar with EVE Online, this means that the 2007 Fan Fest has started in CCP's hometown of Reykjavik, Iceland. And from the sounds of it, this one is going to be a lot of fun!

While I didn't have the clams to travel to the Fan Fest this year (and you know, busy with this really massive new site that y'all should check out) I have to admit, it looks like something I would totally get into. The Fan Fest boasts lots of great events for Gallente and Caldari alike to get together over a glass of Quafe and get either their battle or their business on. The event hosts a huge PvP tournament, round-table discussions, panels, and what looks to be a seriously kickin' dancefloor in a new venue.

For those of curious, you can find all the details here. And to all of you going, be sure to have some Quafe for me, eh?

MassivelyEVE Fan Fest is here originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Nov 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpeveeve-onlinefan-festfan-fest-2007gallenteminmatarThu, 01 Nov 2007 09:30:00 EST