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[MMObility: Command and Conquer's new twist on the MMORTS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/mmobility-command-and-conquers-new-twist-on-the-mmorts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/mmobility-command-and-conquers-new-twist-on-the-mmorts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/mmobility-command-and-conquers-new-twist-on-the-mmorts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Command and Conquer screenshot
I've had my fill of MMORTS games. I love them, and I mean love them, but after being asked to look at the 567,386th title from the genre, I am getting a wicked case of tunnel vision. Sometimes I wish I could hit a switch and see these games with the eyes of a brand-new player, to truly judge their quality without any preconceptions. That's not possible, unfortunately.

Luckily, once in a while there comes along a title that feels fresh or does enough with design to seem new and clever. Command and Conquer Tiberium Alliances stands out from the crowd with its interesting combat and a casual approach to hardcore gaming. I have to admit that, at first, I was a bit bummed at having to take a look at yet another epic strategy game that would probably not feel that epic, but my mind was changed after a solid week of playing.

Continue reading MMObility: Command and Conquer's new twist on the MMORTS

MassivelyMMObility: Command and Conquer's new twist on the MMORTS originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedCommand-and-Conquercommand-and-conquer-tiberium-alliancesfeaturedmmobilitymmortsmobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonesmartphoneTiberiumFri, 25 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes talks Dark Legends design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/spacetime-studios-cinco-barnes-talks-dark-legends-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/spacetime-studios-cinco-barnes-talks-dark-legends-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/spacetime-studios-cinco-barnes-talks-dark-legends-design/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Google Plus hangout screenshot
If you have wondered about what was going on in Spacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes' head while designing Dark Legends, wonder no more. I was asked to sit in on a Google + hangout, essentially a public video conference call, with Cinco, Carter Dotson from 148apps and Heidi Duran from GirlGamer. The event was moderated by Ashley Esqueda from G4TV. Cinco fielded some questions from us and fans of the game.

Want to see some cool concept art? Need to know if the energy mechanic in Dark Legends was created just to make fast cash? Have you heard about Spacetime's newly announced title Arcane Legends, but have no idea what might be involved with the game? Have you wondered about the images in the opening video, the appearance of top hats, and the possibility of obtaining all of those great costumes through in-game means? You can find out the answers to these and other important questions in the video, embedded just after the cut.

Continue reading Spacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes talks Dark Legends design

MassivelySpacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes talks Dark Legends design originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>148appsarcane-legendsashley-esquedabeau-hindmancarter-dotsoncinco-barnesdark-legendsG4TVGirlGamergooglegoogle-plusheidi-duranmobilepocket-legendsspacetime-studiosstar-legendsFri, 25 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: An exclusive look at the Runespan in RuneScape]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/mmobility-an-exclusive-look-at-the-runespan-in-runescape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/mmobility-an-exclusive-look-at-the-runespan-in-runescape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/mmobility-an-exclusive-look-at-the-runespan-in-runescape/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape screenshot
Jagex, developer of the ever-popular browser-based game RuneScape, is known for its rapid development schedule. Heck, I fully expect that this article will be outdated by the time I finish its rough draft. Players of the Jagex flagship MMO can log in to find new items, places to explore, and quests to do almost weekly. I tend to poke my nose into the game several times a week, so I know that a more casual player has endless amounts of content to run through. I might level up my construction skill and then switch to something completely different. I just recently spent an afternoon playing with just the new bonfire skill.

Of course, those pesky developers are at it again: giving me more content to go through even though my highest skills hover around only the level 40 mark. This time it's the Runespan, a brand-new area that helps players level runecrafting by offering them a one-stop shop that is more casual and non-competitive than the normal runecraft experience.

I got the chance to call up some of the lead developers on the phone and ask not only about the Runespan but about the new FPS improvements, so be sure to check that out!

Continue reading MMObility: An exclusive look at the Runespan in RuneScape

MassivelyMMObility: An exclusive look at the Runespan in RuneScape originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsjagexjagex-games-studiommobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonepreviewpreviewsrsrunescapesandboxsmartphonethe-runespanFri, 18 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Glitch's new updates stretch players' imaginations]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/mmobility-glitchs-new-updates-stretch-players-imaginations/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/mmobility-glitchs-new-updates-stretch-players-imaginations/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/mmobility-glitchs-new-updates-stretch-players-imaginations/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Glitch screenshot
When Tiny Speck, maker of the wonderfully odd browser-based sandbox Glitch, announced that it would be taking the game back to a beta state in order to retool many of the game's most essential systems, I was skeptical. Heck, I've remained skeptical. I stopped streaming the game due to time constraints but continued to log in and enjoy it. More specifically, I didn't feel like continuing to stream it until the new releases were officially released. I tend to enjoy betas but want to hold back my opinions until games are actually open, and this return to beta made me feel the same way.

Lately, however, the changes being tested and implemented into the game have just been too cool to stay hushed about. Housing is receiving wonderful, wonderful updates that will allow for complete creative freedom that is rarely seen in MMO housing. The UI is transforming as well, and new skills and creatures are being introduced.

Beta or not, there is some crazy-cool stuff going on in the land of Ur. In fact, check out these brand new patch notes!

Continue reading MMObility: Glitch's new updates stretch players' imaginations

MassivelyMMObility: Glitch's new updates stretch players' imaginations originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabeau-hindmanbetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualf2pfantasyfeaturedflashfree-to-playglitchhipsterhousing-changesmmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonesandboxsmartphonetiny-specktinyspeckunlauncheningFri, 11 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Project Triniate attempts to put an MMO on a Nintendo 3DS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/project-triniate-attempts-to-put-an-mmo-on-a-nintendo-3ds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/project-triniate-attempts-to-put-an-mmo-on-a-nintendo-3ds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/project-triniate-attempts-to-put-an-mmo-on-a-nintendo-3ds/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Project Triniate
There have been plenty of attempts at creating MMOs on mobile platforms, but so far those have been largely confined to smartphones, tablets, and iPod Touches. Enter Project Triniate, an MMO aiming to release on Nintendo's 3DS handheld platform by developer Robdeprop of 3DSPlaza.com.

Since the 3DS can't handle Java or Flash, the idea is that the player uses the system's browser to navigate to the official website and use the website to run the game instead. The title looks like a top-down 2-D game that relies on the stylus for any in-game conversations.

While interesting, it's certainly a long shot; even the developer says that it might not be released. Still, if you have a 3DS you can currently give the game a try -- for a buck, that is. Check out a demo video of Project Triniate after the jump.

Continue reading Project Triniate attempts to put an MMO on a Nintendo 3DS

MassivelyProject Triniate attempts to put an MMO on a Nintendo 3DS originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3dsplaza.combrowser-basedbrowser-mmodemohandheld-mmomobilemobile-mmonintendonintendo-3dsproject-triniateRobdeproptriniatevideoTue, 08 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Legends launches on Apple devices, hits 500K players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/dark-legends-launches-on-apple-devices-hits-500k-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/dark-legends-launches-on-apple-devices-hits-500k-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/dark-legends-launches-on-apple-devices-hits-500k-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dark Legends
The tortured souls of the underworld Apple users have twiddled their thumbs and sharpened their canines for over a month now, a month that Android and Chrome users have played Dark Legends to their hearts' content. After that long wait, iOS owners can stop penning brooding poetry on Livejournal and start playing the game proper: Spacetime Studios has released Dark Legends on the App Store.

Apple users can now joining the 500,000-plus Dark Legends community by simply downloading the game from the store and getting their vamp on. Edward-wannabes have a daunting task in front of them, however, as all of the darker fantasy forces are out to be a serious pain in their neck.

Dark Legends follows in the wake of Spacetime's enormously popular Pocket Legends and Star Legends. It's available as a free download with optional in-app purchases and can be played over wifi, edge, 3G, and 4G networks.

Our own Beau is livestreaming Dark Legends today on Massively TV, so be sure to see what he thinks of the game!

[Source: Spacetime Studios press release]

MassivelyDark Legends launches on Apple devices, hits 500K players originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapp-storeappleapple-app-storechromedark-legendsdraculaedwardf2pfree-to-playiosipadiphoneipod-touchitouchlaunchmobilemobile-mmoobscure-livejournal-referencepocket-legendsspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsvampireMon, 07 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: The pros and cons of Tibia's browser version]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/mmobility-the-pros-and-cons-of-tibias-browser-version/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/mmobility-the-pros-and-cons-of-tibias-browser-version/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/mmobility-the-pros-and-cons-of-tibias-browser-version/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Tibia screenshot
Tibia is an MMO that has been hanging in there for many, many years. You have to give it respect for that alone. When you add on the fact that the game seems to be updated relatively frequently and boasts a pretty good-sized playerbase, it becomes even more intriguing. I've played it in the past and have enjoyed the simple graphics and slower-paced gameplay. I like how NPCs chat with you, old-school EverQuest-style, and how there seems to be a lot more to the game than meets the eye.

There are plenty of eyesores, however. The developers recently released Tibia in a beta browser form. While the client was always easy enough to download and run on my multitude of devices, I always prefer to just jump into my browser and load it up.

I found a lot of neat little systems but also quite a few bugs or odd design choices. Colors and layout can be a problem, and I am not the biggest fan of Flash-based MMOs. Still, I am enjoying myself so far and look forward to more. Let's talk about what I found over these last several hours with Tibia's browser-based version.

Continue reading MMObility: The pros and cons of Tibia's browser version

MassivelyMMObility: The pros and cons of Tibia's browser version originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfeaturedflash-basedfree-to-playfreemiumftpisometric-viewMMObilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoOld-schoolopinionphonesmartphonetibiaUltima-OnlineFri, 04 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Killing the bland in Iruna Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/mmobility-killing-the-bland-in-iruna-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/mmobility-killing-the-bland-in-iruna-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/mmobility-killing-the-bland-in-iruna-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Iruna Online screenshot
Once again, Droid Gamers sent me a sweet tip regarding yet another Android-based MMO. This time around, it's Iruna Online, a real and actual MMO complete with open worlds, "millions" of other players, quests, equipment and monsters. In fact, the game reminds me in some ways of Final Fantasy XI. Iruna Online is not the first mobile MMO that has felt like the Square-Enix favorite, perhaps because they all share a similar art style. As I played, it struck me that the newer smartphones have enough power to run a game that looks as good as Final Fantasy XI, albeit with some graphics options turned down or off.

The similarities basically end there, however. Iruna Online is one of the newer stock of mobile MMOs that show mobile massively multiplayer gaming is really here. It should not be shocking or surprising anymore. Just as in the PC market, we are going to see many titles stream from the Eastern market. Many of them will be duds, but many will also be very, very cool.

Continue reading MMObility: Killing the bland in Iruna Online

MassivelyMMObility: Killing the bland in Iruna Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedfeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xigoogle-playHTC-inspireiruna-onlineMMObilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonepreviewsmartphonesmartphone-mmoSquare-EnixFri, 27 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer Online expansion includes new pirate class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/conquer-online-expansion-includes-new-pirate-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/conquer-online-expansion-includes-new-pirate-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/conquer-online-expansion-includes-new-pirate-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Conquer Online - pirate trailer
You might recall that Conquer Online made the jump from free-to-play PC MMO to iPad action RPG last December. Today NetDragon has announced the title's first expansion, called Invasion of Pirates. Unsurprisingly the content drop features a new Pirate class. You can see a video of it in action after the break.

The class wields pistols and rapiers, and NetDragon describes the resulting gameplay as the "most fiery, action-packed combat" in Conquer Online. The expansion pack is currently free if you download Conquer Online HD in the iPad App Store.

[Source: NetDragon press release]

Continue reading Conquer Online expansion includes new pirate class

MassivelyConquer Online expansion includes new pirate class originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquer-onlineconquer-online-expansionexpansionsf2pfree-to-playinvasion-of-piratesipadmobilepirate-classtrailervideoThu, 26 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vendetta celebrating 10-year anniversary, prepping new content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/vendetta-celebrating-10-year-anniversary-prepping-new-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/vendetta-celebrating-10-year-anniversary-prepping-new-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/vendetta-celebrating-10-year-anniversary-prepping-new-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Vendetta Online - 10 year anniversary
Ten years is an eternity in the game industry, and MMOs that manage to hang around for a decade or more are few and far between. One such title is Vendetta Online, which originally released on April 20th, 2002 and is still going strong today.

Guild Software is hosting a couple of celebration events this weekend. The company has also announced that its massive 1.9 patch is coming later this year, followed by an even more massive expansion in 2013.

Vendetta is unique among MMOs for its twitch-based space combat and extensive trading, mining, and exploration gameplay. Large space battles, dynamic territory control, and player-generated content systems round out the feature set, all of which is coded and maintained by a four-man dev team. The single-universe game server is accessible from a number of different platforms that include Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. In March 2011, Vendetta became the first PC MMO to jump to mobile platforms, and it spent several weeks as the number one paid app on Android devices.

Check out the game's official website for more info, and don't forget to sign up for the trial while you're there. You can also read Massively's latest game impressions in Some Assembly Required.

[Source: Guild press release]

MassivelyVendetta celebrating 10-year anniversary, prepping new content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androideventsexplorationguildguild-softwarein-game-eventsinternet-spaceshipslinuxmacmac-mmosminingmobileplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsandboxspace-combattradinguser-generated-contentvendettavendetta-10-year-anniversaryvendetta-anniversaryvendetta-onlinevendetta-ten-year-anniversaryFri, 20 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Dark Legends' cash shop, Thinix, and Parallel Mafia's launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/mmobility-dark-legends-cash-shop-thinix-and-parallel-mafias/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/mmobility-dark-legends-cash-shop-thinix-and-parallel-mafias/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/mmobility-dark-legends-cash-shop-thinix-and-parallel-mafias/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Legends screenshot
I know this is not what you want to hear if you are a fan of Spacetime Studios and were really excited about it new title, Dark Legends, but here goes: The energy mechanic that seems to have so many players upset is really not that bad at all. See, at some point many games decided to use a limited amount of energy to fuel character actions, and once it runs out, it seems like game over. It has always been the case (ever since Farmville first made the mechanic so popular that misguided gamers thought Zynga had somehow invented it) that energy in these sorts of games refills naturally, over time, for free.

I played through Dark Legends on launch night and was able to complete an entire campaign with some energy left over. Sure, I had to pause once to refill a couple of bars (they take five minutes each to refill), but other than that, I had no issues with it. If the energy becomes an issue at later levels, I do not know.

Let's not confuse things here: The energy mechanic in Dark Legends is nothing new, it's not a scam, and it does not force players to do anything. Allow me to explain, then we're moving on to other mobile MMO news.

Continue reading MMObility: Dark Legends' cash shop, Thinix, and Parallel Mafia's launch

MassivelyMMObility: Dark Legends' cash shop, Thinix, and Parallel Mafia's launch originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmandark-legendsfeaturedinspiron-duoIOSiphoneMMObilitymobileparallel-mafiaperbluespacetime-studiosthinixvideoFri, 13 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Legends goes live for Android and Chrome]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/dark-legends-goes-live-for-mobile-devices-and-chrome/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/dark-legends-goes-live-for-mobile-devices-and-chrome/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/dark-legends-goes-live-for-mobile-devices-and-chrome/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

He bit her right in her main catsup artery.
So you like vampires? It's kind of a thing these days. Maybe you like vampires so much that you really want to play around with some vampiric content on your mobile device. That's for the best, as Spacetime Studios has released Dark Legends today. Building off the success of the studio's previous mobile/browser titles (Pocket Legends and Star Legends), the newest game allows players to take on the role of a bloodsucking monster of the night.

The game is currently available in the the Google Play Store and the Chrome app store; it won't be available in the iOS app store for a few more weeks. Like previous offerings, it's free-to-play, and you can log in from separate devices to play both on the road and at home. Unlike previous games, this one is definitely not aiming for the family market, being a fair bit more overtly violent and bloody. Still, if you feel the urge to rampage through dark alleys while you are walking through said alleys in real life, Dark Legends has you covered.

[Update: We've clarified that the game is not yet available for Apple users. Sorry for the confusion!]

MassivelyDark Legends goes live for Android and Chrome originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-mmodark-legendsf2pfree-to-playmobilenew-gamesnew-titlespocket-legendsspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsvampiresWed, 11 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Reaching the MMORTS sweet-spot, slowly]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/mmobility-reaching-the-mmorts-sweet-spot-slowly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/mmobility-reaching-the-mmorts-sweet-spot-slowly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/mmobility-reaching-the-mmorts-sweet-spot-slowly/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Relaxed knight
As a player of many MMORTS titles, I have grown to understand that patience is not only a virtue but a necessity. Many titles from the genre are designed to make you spend real time to do anything. It's not that they are boring or tedious; instead, they are representing what it might be like to actually grow an army or trade hub and to explore the often massive world around you. The pacing is meant to be slow. These are not games of instant leveling or non-stop quest grinding. They're meant to be played in as little as a few minutes per day. This explains a lot of their success -- just imagine how popular they are with time-strapped players.

There is a time, however, after months of toiling away at building up various structures, growing a small army, or finally getting to the maxed out level in a certain area, when you can finally settle down for some real gameplay. It might sound silly to have to wait that long for glory, but come on... this is city-building we are talking about. It takes time.

Continue reading MMObility: Reaching the MMORTS sweet-spot, slowly

MassivelyMMObility: Reaching the MMORTS sweet-spot, slowly originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8realmsaeria-gamesbeau-hindmanbrowser-basedcasualfeaturedgolden-ageillyriadjagexmassive-armiesministry-of-warMMObilitymmortsmobilesnail-gamestradingFri, 06 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Real-life location games for your daily walks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/mmobility-real-life-location-games-for-your-daily-walks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/mmobility-real-life-location-games-for-your-daily-walks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/mmobility-real-life-location-games-for-your-daily-walks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Parallel Kingdom artwork
I've been having a lot of fun with Parallel Kingdom lately. It's a location-based MMO brought to us by PerBlue, one that offers a layer of reality thanks to the fact that it is built on top of the real-world map. You can claim your real-life block, help other members of your city, and trade with other players from all over the world. It's actually a pretty simple design, but it helps to give the game a sense of realism.

Parallel Kingdom isn't the only location-based game out there, though. I thought it might be cool to take a look at some of the other titles to see what the competition has to offer. So far I have only found a few that are stepping up in quality. Read on to see what I think of the rest!

Continue reading MMObility: Real-life location games for your daily walks

MassivelyMMObility: Real-life location games for your daily walks originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanfeaturedgrey-areaLife-is-Crimelocation-basedmassive-damagemerchant-kingdommmobilitmobileparallel-kingdomperblueplease-stay-calmshadow-citiesFri, 30 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: A few bad design apples ruin the whole bunch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/mmobility-a-few-bad-design-apples-ruin-the-whole-bunch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/mmobility-a-few-bad-design-apples-ruin-the-whole-bunch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/mmobility-a-few-bad-design-apples-ruin-the-whole-bunch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ministry of War artwork
The MMORTS genre is easily one of my favorite genres. There's so much potential in a game that is essentially a giant, endless boardgame with thousands of players. An epic scale occurs in even the smallest of titles because players control not only one or two grand heroes but entire armies that swarm from sprawling cities. Though many of Massively's readers might not hear a lot from the genre, I believe this genre to be one of the most popular out there. Browser-based access doesn't hurt, either, and generally the MMORTS titles I find do a great job of covering their design bases.

You know I have to play Devil's Advocate, however. Despite the fact that the genre is packed full of potentially wonderful gaming sessions, there is so, so much that needs to improve. The negative stereotypes exist for a reason, and I want to shine a light on a few of the more popular titles to show just how one or two bad design and business decisions might reflect poorly on the entire genre.

Continue reading MMObility: A few bad design apples ruin the whole bunch

MassivelyMMObility: A few bad design apples ruin the whole bunch originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriabeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedevonyf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpgolden-ageministry-of-warmmobilitymmortsmobileopinionsnail-gamesstrategyFri, 23 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gameloft bringing Order & Chaos Online to your Mac]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/gameloft-bringing-order-and-chaos-online-to-your-mac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/gameloft-bringing-order-and-chaos-online-to-your-mac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/gameloft-bringing-order-and-chaos-online-to-your-mac/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Order & Chaos Online - Two avatars fighting
It's been nearly a year since Gameloft released Order & Chaos Online to iOS and Android devices. The mobile fantasy MMORPG migrated to Facebook later in the summer of 2011, and now it's coming to a full-scale Mac near you.

Gameloft has just published a new trailer heralding Order & Chaos as "the MMORPG for Mac," and the video says that the client will be available for downloading in the Mac App store before the end of the month.

Order & Chaos features two playable factions and four classes, and you can get a glimpse of the promotional clip after the cut.

[Source: Gameloft press release]

Continue reading Gameloft bringing Order & Chaos Online to your Mac

MassivelyGameloft bringing Order & Chaos Online to your Mac originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualf2pfree-to-playgameloftmac-mmomac-mmorpgmobileorder-and-chaosorder-and-chaos-mac-clientorder-and-chaos-onlinetrailervideoTue, 20 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Parallel Mafia is not a typical Mafia game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/mmobility-parallel-mafia-is-not-a-typical-mafia-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/mmobility-parallel-mafia-is-not-a-typical-mafia-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/mmobility-parallel-mafia-is-not-a-typical-mafia-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Parallel Mafia icon
If you have played Parallel Kingdom by PerBlue before, then a lot of what I am going to describe might sound familiar. If not, then it might sound very unique and exciting. The truth is that I have been attempting to get into Parallel Kingdom for a while but always found myself a bit overwhelmed, so I was excited to be invited to check out PerBlue's new title Parallel Mafia. I hoped that I might squeeze in some questions about Parallel Kingdom while I had the team on the line. Sure enough, I not only got introduced to the new title but left the interview knowing a lot more about Parallel Kingdom. I have been playing heavily since then. As I compare the two titles, I can see a lot of similarities, but there are some nice differences as well.

Both titles are location-based MMORPGs. I have always wanted more options in the genre, but I imagine it's a tough one to develop in. What's the point of the real-life connection? Why would players want to play in a game that is basically spawned on top of Google Maps?

Continue reading MMObility: Parallel Mafia is not a typical Mafia game

MassivelyMMObility: Parallel Mafia is not a typical Mafia game originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedfeaturedgoogle-mapsiOSiphonelocation-basedmafia-warsmmobilitymobileperbluepocket-legendssmartphonespacetime-studiosstar-legendsUltima-OnlineZyngaFri, 16 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[XLGAMES' Jake Song not interested in consoles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/xlgames-jake-song-not-interested-in-consoles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/xlgames-jake-song-not-interested-in-consoles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/xlgames-jake-song-not-interested-in-consoles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

XLGAMES founder Jake Song
ArcheAge guru Jake Song weighed in on the future of console games at Seoul's SoGang University yesterday. The XLGAMES founder and Lineage creator was part of a public discussion called "Get All the Game Maniacs Together," and he responded with an emphatic "no" when asked if he plans to develop for consoles.

"[The Korean gaming industry] was able to set up such [a] wonderful environment for online games 15 years ago. So why should we go into the outdated market while so many overseas developers are suffering from learning our online games development experience," he said.

Song explained that the console business model relies on selling third-party software, and he also hinted at the fact that mobile software is both cheaper and comparable to its console counterpart in terms of quality.

MassivelyXLGAMES' Jake Song not interested in consoles originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archeagebusiness-modelsconsoleconsolesget-all-the-game-maniacs-togetherjake-songmmo-industrymobilexlxl-gamesxlgamesWed, 14 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Utilizing Windows 8 to help with MMO chores]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/mmobility-utilizing-windows-8-to-help-with-mmo-chores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/mmobility-utilizing-windows-8-to-help-with-mmo-chores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/mmobility-utilizing-windows-8-to-help-with-mmo-chores/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Windows 8 preview screenshot
Not so long ago, I told you about my acquisition of an Inspiron Duo netbook, a 10-inch device that was not only a small laptop but also a touchscreen tablet device. It is a very sturdy device, and the flip-around screen works well. The main problem with the device was that it came with Windows 7 while only sporting a dual core processor and two gigs of RAM. The other main issue was that the 10-inch screen has a 1366x768-pixel resolution, meaning that it was often uncomfortable to read on it or play games unless I zoomed in.

Recently Microsoft released the Windows 8 public preview, so I downloaded it after reading that it was really geared for tablet or touchcreen devices. Sure enough, the same 10-inch netbook that was not getting a lot of use around here suddenly became faster and much more friendly to the eyes.

It's perfect timing, as well, especially since I will be starting my "chores" experiment in which I see whether scheduling my gameplay each day will help me with an issue I have been having.

Continue reading MMObility: Utilizing Windows 8 to help with MMO chores

MassivelyMMObility: Utilizing Windows 8 to help with MMO chores originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointbsg-onlinecastle-empirechoresdie2niteduof2pfeaturedfree-to-pftpglitchgolden-agegunshineillyriadinspiron-duojagexjunebud-abmilmominitroopersmiramagiamirimagiammobilitymmortsmobilepocket-legendsriotzonerunescaspacetime-studiosstar-legendstouchscreentwinoidFri, 09 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: The Firing Line's PlanetSide 2 and DUST 514 redux]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/the-firing-line-more-on-planetside-2-and-dust-514-from-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/the-firing-line-more-on-planetside-2-and-dust-514-from-gdc/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/the-firing-line-more-on-planetside-2-and-dust-514-from-gdc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - GDC 2012 header
This week I was fortunate enough to chat up the developers on the two biggest MMOFPS titles of the year. Exactly what year that is remains to be seen, and after hearing Sony Online Entertainment use the word "alpha" quite a lot, I suspect that PlanetSide 2 may slip into 2013. And that's not a bad thing at all, by the way.

CCP's DUST 514, on the other hand, is surely coming in 2012. The devs will be doling out some long-awaited hands-on time with EVE's precocious little brother at Fanfest in a couple of weeks, and while DUST and PS2 share similar core gameplay, their target audiences (and the general feeling I get from each game) are completely different.

Continue reading GDC 2012: The Firing Line's PlanetSide 2 and DUST 514 redux

MassivelyGDC 2012: The Firing Line's PlanetSide 2 and DUST 514 redux originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconconferenceconventiondavid-reiddustdust-514dust-eve-integrationdust-playstationeveeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012game-mechanicsgdcgdc-2012hilmar-peturssoninterviewmatt-higbymmofpsmobilenew-edenopinionplanetside-2playstation-3ps2ps3pvpsandboxtflthe-firing-linethird-person-shootertpstramell-isaacvitaFri, 09 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: A look at Dark Legends with Spacetime Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-dark-legends-with-spacetime-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-dark-legends-with-spacetime-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-dark-legends-with-spacetime-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Legends
Life, death, and a return from the grave: That sums up the life of a vampire, but it also sums up the journey of Spacetime Studios. What do the two have in common? The studio's upcoming title called Dark Legends. At GDC 2012 this week, Massively had a chance to talk with Gary Gattis, CEO of Spacetime Studios, and we got a first-hand look at how the company successfully created a game in which people can play together on laptops, tablets, phones, and virtually any mobile device available.

Continue reading GDC 2012: A look at Dark Legends with Spacetime Studios

MassivelyGDC 2012: A look at Dark Legends with Spacetime Studios originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventiondark-legendsfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gary-gattisgdcgdc-2012interviewinterviewskaren-bryanmobilemobile-mmospocket-legendsspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsWed, 07 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 Vita version is companion app, not full game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/dust-514-vita-version-is-companion-app-not-full-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/dust-514-vita-version-is-companion-app-not-full-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/dust-514-vita-version-is-companion-app-not-full-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514 - Concept art
If you were hoping to play a mobile version of CCP's upcoming DUST 514 shooter, you might want to adjust your expectations just a bit. The EVE Online-inspired MMOFPS will be making an appearance on Sony's PlayStation Vita device... but as a companion app rather than a full-blown game.

CCP's Brandon Laurino explained the details to Eurogamer in an interview over the weekend. "At the most basic level, you can do transactions on the market, equip and customize your character, your vehicles, set up strategies with your friends and corporation members -- all of these sort of companion functions on the go," he says.

Laurino also says that the DUST Vita launch date has yet to be determined but that gamers should keep an eye out for further iterations of the app after its initial release. "As we continue to explore what the possibilities are between Vita and PS3, of which there are many, we'll keep updating the app with stuff like that over time," he explained.

MassivelyDUST 514 Vita version is companion app, not full game originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandon-laurinoccpccp-gamescompanion-appconsoledustdust-514dust-514-companion-appeveeve-onlinefpsmmofpsmobilenew-edenplaystationplaystation-3playstation-vitaps3shootervitaMon, 05 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: The 16 MMOs in my pocket]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/mmobility-the-16-mmos-in-my-pocket/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/mmobility-the-16-mmos-in-my-pocket/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/mmobility-the-16-mmos-in-my-pocket/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

HTC Inspire picture
I have a smartphone that is pretty much filled to the brim with actual, functional, persistent MMORPGs. Some of them are three-dimensional romps through massive worlds filled with dungeons and dragons; others are representational browser-based games that work through the phone's native browser; and the rest are hardly nothing more than a few dots on the screen and impressionistic gameplay.

Still, they are MMOs. I love having access to them, and over the last year I have actually grown to love simple, clever design and basic artwork over almost anything else. Forget Guild Wars 2; we'll hear enough about that to make us choke. Sure, it might be a fun game, but I'm a tech guy from the Bizarro universe. I prefer to see how little tech I need to game with. I want to push the limits even lower.

Anyway, it's springtime here in Texas, so it's time to clean out all sorts of crap from my life. I organize all of my hundreds of songs, films, movies and art pieces and get my digital life in order as well. This process includes tweaking my current line-up of basic technology and downloading any updates for the games that exist on those devices. It's time to cull the weak and glorify the wonderful.

Continue reading MMObility: The 16 MMOs in my pocket

MassivelyMMObility: The 16 MMOs in my pocket originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapplebeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddark-legendsdie2niteelemental-knights-online-the-worldempire-onlinefeaturedglitchHTC-inspireillyriadillyriad-gamesIOSiphoneMMObilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoOnLiveopinionorder-and-chaos-onlineparallel-kingdomperbluephonepocket-legendssmartphonespacetime-studiosstar-legendsstewart-butterfieldthe-infinite-blacktibiaMEtiny-specktraviantraviansVendetta-Onlinewarspear-onlineworld-of-midgardFri, 02 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeria Games unveils Aeria Mobile, inaugural titles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/aeria-games-unveils-aeria-mobile-inaugural-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/aeria-games-unveils-aeria-mobile-inaugural-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/aeria-games-unveils-aeria-mobile-inaugural-titles/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Aeria Games logo
Aeria Games, publisher of popular free-to-play titles such as Eden Eternal, announced in a press release today that it has established Aeria Mobile in order to deliver quality games to "the underserved mobile core gaming arena." The division is coming into the world with three inaugural mobile games. The first of these is Eden Eternal: Monster Arena. The game is (obviously) set in the world of Eden Eternal and "brings the beloved anime-style gameplay of the popular franchise to an innovative accelerometer-based shooter RPG."

Next up on the list is Tuff Tanks, a "turn-based artillery shooter set in a colorful world of monsters and tanks." The turn-based title will be familiar to fans of the Worms series, and it will allow players to face off against computer opponents or against one another. The third and final release title for Aeria Mobile is known as Armygeddon, "a turn-based military strategy game set in a near-future setting that features episodic single-player content and asynchronous multiplayer combat." So if you need to get your gaming fix on the go, Aeria Games has you covered. To check out the library and find out how to get your hands on the games for yourselves, just click on through the link below to the official Aeria Mobile site.

[Source: Aeria Games press release]

MassivelyAeria Games unveils Aeria Mobile, inaugural titles originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesaeria-mobilearmygeddoneden-eternal-monster-arenaf2pfree-to-playindustrymmo-industrymobilemobile-gamingtuff-tanksFri, 02 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Let's make a mobile MMO, part four]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-mmo-part-four/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-mmo-part-four/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-mmo-part-four/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Game Sketches
So here we are at the last part of a four-part mini-series in which Dave Toulouse, indie developer of games like Golemizer and Star Corsairs, and I have attempted to make a working mobile MMO. I started the series with the hopes of fostering discussion over design as well, and we have gotten some great conversations going in the comments section! I think many MMO gamers dream about game design at some point, and some go beyond that point and actually create a game. It can be tough, as this series has shown, just to get the basics down.

Well, here we are at the last. I wanted to go over some of the best ideas the readers had, cover what we were able to do with the actual game, and debate how much further it would need to go to be considered officially "done."

Continue reading MMObility: Let's make a mobile MMO, part four

MassivelyMMObility: Let's make a mobile MMO, part four originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindbrowserbrowser-baseddave-toulousef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpgolemizerhtcIOSipadiphoneMMObilitymobilesmartphonestar-corsairsworgoltFri, 24 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part three]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-three/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-three/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-three/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Worgolt title
Last week we continued our discussion about how to make a mobile game, and the Massively readers offered up some great input. I wish I had the space to write up every single comment, but instead I will pick some of my favorites and we can discuss it from there. Unfortunately, real life has pushed development on the game back just a bit. Dave Toulouse, my indie developer partner-in-crime in this series, not only has two games of his own to run, Star Corsairs and Golemizer, but is now dealing with my silly emails. So while last week's column got some great ideas in the comments section, we were really only able to switch out the artwork, name the game, and add a tad bit of lore.

Fear not, fair readers! I will break down the development that is still planned on being pushed into the game over the last week, and it's important to note that Dave and I plan on coming back to the experiment over time. I'd like to update the game and continue discussion since it has been so interesting so far! In the meanwhile, click here to go to the official game page!

Continue reading MMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part three

MassivelyMMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part three originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-mmodave-toulousef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpgolemizerindependentIndieMMObilitymobilestar-corsairsworgoltFri, 17 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

My MMO screenshot
Last week I started working with Dave Toulouse, indie developer of Golemizer and Star Corsairs, to build our very own mobile MMO. For the sake of completing the project within the month of February, we kept our game designs simple and easy for anyone to play. The idea was not to create a state-of-the-art video game but instead to build a working framework that illustrated some of the basics of MMO design.

Ironically, my first column on the subject was received rather coolly when I consider my normal column response, but last week's responses taught me a valuable lesson about design: Players often want to talk about what is not possible rather than what is. Dave told me how his players often told him what they wished his games would achieve, without ever considering just how difficult it is to make a game.

Still, there were several great ideas in the comments section. I'm going to use those ideas to break down this week's update.

Continue reading MMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part two

MassivelyMMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part two originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddave-toulousefeaturedgolemizerIOSMMObilitymobilemy-mmosmartphonestar-corsairsworgoltFri, 10 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part one]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Wurm Online screenshot
I thoroughly enjoy reading your comments, especially when the discussion turns to game design or suggestions for development. I decided it was high time that I sat down and experienced, even if just a little, how the design process goes. I've had plenty of peeks at different studios, but I wanted to know what it is like to actually make a game from basically beginning to end.

So for the next four weeks, I will be doing something special. I invited indie developer Dave Toulouse, maker of Golemizer and Star Corsairs, to help me in this journey. If you'd like to find out more about Dave, you can visit his official website, follow him on Twitter, or even read an interview I did with him a while ago. He really is the epitome of the indie spirit, and I am so thankful that he volunteered to do this with me.

The goal is to start with a basic idea and framework, and using input from our discussions and from reader comments, assemble a very basic working mobile MMO. So let's get started!

Continue reading MMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part one

MassivelyMMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part one originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-mmodave-toulousedie2nitef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpglitchgolemizerhardcoreillyriadIOSiphoneMMObilitymobilepollpollsstar-corsairsworgoltwurm-onlineFri, 03 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: The best Glitch apps and websites]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/mmobility-the-best-glitch-apps-and-websites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/mmobility-the-best-glitch-apps-and-websites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/mmobility-the-best-glitch-apps-and-websites/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Glitch database screenshot
Glitch is a wonderful game, but it can be a bit confusing. The sheer number of items, places, and ingredients can make navigating the world of Ur difficult. I decided I needed some assistance living in the world of the giants. It took but one post on the forums before the helpful community overwhelmed me with choices. The developer of Glitch, Tiny Speck, made sure that players and third-party developers can have a go at making applications or websites that connect to the game's information and characters. I had no idea how many people had created some sort of app or website so far!

I started to try them all out, and as of the time of this writing, I have barely scratched the surface. There are apps or websites for almost anything you can think of. I have already found some that I really like, and I wanted to share them with you. Feel free to let me know which ones you like, and why, in the comments section.

Continue reading MMObility: The best Glitch apps and websites

MassivelyMMObility: The best Glitch apps and websites originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpglitchglitchenMMObilitymobiletiny-speckwebsitesFri, 27 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT companion app brings chat, events, and loot to Android]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/rift-companion-app-brings-chat-events-and-loot-to-android-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/rift-companion-app-brings-chat-events-and-loot-to-android-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/rift-companion-app-brings-chat-events-and-loot-to-android-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RIFT Mobile
RIFT is stepping up its mobile connectivity game with the newly released RIFT mobile companion app, now for Android. The application contains what you might expect from a companion app, such as friend and guild chat, officer chat, and other guild capabilities, but it also features unique bits like zone event notifications, which can notify you when a zone event begins on your server. Of course, you can also filter which of these battles deserves a notification.

Perhaps most interestingly, you can also earn in-game loot by participating in what appears to be some kind of minigame. This game can reward players with crafting items, planar treasure, and artifacts, which are sent directly to their characters' mail-boxes. For the most part, it looks to be a pretty good tool for people who want to stay connected to the game even when they're not at their computers.

For the full details on the app, just click on through the link below. Meanwhile, if you want to skip the fluff and just grab the app, it's available for free on the iTunes store and now on the Android Market.

MassivelyRIFT companion app brings chat, events, and loot to Android originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappdroidiosiphoneipodmobilemobile-companion-appmobile-gamingriftrift-apprift-companion-apprift-mobilerift-mobile-companion-apprift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldsThu, 26 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spacetime's Dark Legends mobile vampire MMO available Q1 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/spacetimes-dark-legends-mobile-vampire-mmo-available-q1-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/spacetimes-dark-legends-mobile-vampire-mmo-available-q1-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/spacetimes-dark-legends-mobile-vampire-mmo-available-q1-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Spacetime Studios logo - Dudes, pls release some Dark Legends assets
We've reported previously on Spacetime Studios' new Dark Legends vampire MMO, but today we've got a launch window for you. The game will be available in the first quarter of 2012, and it represents the latest entry in the company's mobile Legends series which includes Pocket Legends and Star Legends.

Dark Legends features new gameplay tweaks, including more action via charge attacks and the ability to drain foes. There's also more of a focus on narrative thanks to something Spacetime calls an "interactive storybook" made from both missions and cutscenes. More info will be released at this year's Game Developer's Conference in early March.

[Source: Spacetime Studios press release]

MassivelySpacetime's Dark Legends mobile vampire MMO available Q1 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualcharge-mechanicsdark-legendsdrain-mechanicsf2pfantasyfree-to-playhorrorlegends-seriesmobilespacetimespacetime-studiosThu, 26 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony, CCP 'negotiating PS3 virtual item policy' for DUST 514]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/sony-ccp-negotiating-ps3-virtual-item-policy-for-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/sony-ccp-negotiating-ps3-virtual-item-policy-for-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/sony-ccp-negotiating-ps3-virtual-item-policy-for-dust-514/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514 - planetary concept art
DUST 514 is somewhat revolutionary in that it's attempting to tie together two separate games (on two separate platforms) that take place in the same fictional universe. CCP is also innovating on the backend according to a new article at Develop.

The upcoming EVE Online MMOFPS tie-in will establish universal PlayStation Network microtransaction rules according to CCP CEO Hilmar Petursson. Petursson told Develop that the ongoing CCP/Sony negotiations will ultimately result in the establishment of price tiers for virtual items as well as the revenue split between Sony and third-party devs.

CCP is also exploring retail options for DUST 514, despite early reports that the title would only be available as a digital download. Finally, Petursson tells Develop that the PlayStation Vita version of DUST will "give people access to more asynchronous parts of the game." While he doesn't commit one way or the other, it's possible that the portable version of the game will connect to both the PlayStation 3 and PC versions via EVE's universal ISK currency.

MassivelySony, CCP 'negotiating PS3 virtual item policy' for DUST 514 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelscash-shopccpccp-gamesdustdust-514dust-514-retaileveeve-onlinef2pfpsfree-to-playhilmar-peturssonitem-storemicrotransactionsmmo-shootermmofpsmobilenew-edenplaystation-3playstation-networkplaystation-vitaps3retailsandboxsci-fishootersonyvirtual-item-policyvitaMon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Two new MMOs, one tiny screen]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/mmobility-two-new-mmos-one-tiny-screen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/mmobility-two-new-mmos-one-tiny-screen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/mmobility-two-new-mmos-one-tiny-screen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Elemental Knights Online screenshot
You know what I love about discovering new mobile games? It's that moment when I realize they are actually pretty good and might give me some real MMO action on my smartphone. The biggest issue I have these days is separating the true MMOs from the social, multiplayer and singleplayer games that bombard the market. While I enjoy games from those genres, many of them arrive on my phone disguised as something else. Many of them even call themselves "MMOs" without having any real multiplayer interaction or persistence.

So you can imagine how happy I am when I find real, persistent MMOs that are available for my HTC Inspire Android phone and iOS. Yes, there are more of them out there than you might think. Let's take a look at a couple of new ones that I have found.

Continue reading MMObility: Two new MMOs, one tiny screen

MassivelyMMObility: Two new MMOs, one tiny screen originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanchibideep-space-nineelemental-knights-online-the-worldfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xiglitchIOSMMObilitymobilepocket-legendssmartphoneSquare-Enixthe-infinite-blackVendetta-OnlinewinlightFri, 20 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon signs agreement with Unity Technologies for development platform]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/nexon-signs-agreement-with-unity-technologies-for-development-pl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/nexon-signs-agreement-with-unity-technologies-for-development-pl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/nexon-signs-agreement-with-unity-technologies-for-development-pl/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nexon logo. It's hard to screencap a business agreement.
If you know MMOs, odds are good you know what Nexon is -- one of the biggest free-to-play publishers in South Korea with a stable of several games that have been quite successful in the US as well. You may not know of Unity Technologies, however. That may well change, as Nexon has just signed a license agreement with Unity Technologies to allow the company the rights to utilize the Unity development platform for further projects.

The Unity platform is meant to allow easier deployment of applications to alternative platforms, with the platform being in place for browsers, iOS, Android, and other systems. Nexon's agreement with Unity allows them full rights to the software for any and all subsidiaries, as well as the right to modify and alter the source code as necessary. Which projects Nexon has in the pipeline that might utilize this technology are unknown at this time, but it seems that the company is dedicated to branching out into alternative platforms.

[Source: Nexon/Unity Technologies press release]

MassivelyNexon signs agreement with Unity Technologies for development platform originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidarrangementsbrowser-gamingbrowsersdevelopmentdevelopment-platformindustry-dealsiosmmo-industrymobilemobile-devicesmobile-gamingnexonnexon-usasoftwareunity-technologiesTue, 17 Jan 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: The argument for a time-limited server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/mmobility-the-argument-for-a-time-limited-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/mmobility-the-argument-for-a-time-limited-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/mmobility-the-argument-for-a-time-limited-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Travian banner
If there is one thing we MMO gamers love about our favorite games, it's the fact that they go on almost forever. Even when we log off, the virtual worlds we inhabit exist without us. Players continue to adventure, craft and explore the game world as we sleep. It's exciting, and it separates MMOs from the rest of the gaming flock. But what if the world ended? What if the ending of the world was part of the gameplay, an understood happening that marked not only the end of one chapter but the fresh beginning of another?

Time-limited servers end, just as I described. While I have not seen the mechanic much in "standard" MMOs, only appearing really in a handful of titles like A Tale in the Desert, there are quite a few MMORTS titles that use it. In fact, some of the most popular MMORTS games out there use time limits in their games. It would seem that many players enjoy the occasional destruction or closing of their worlds.

Would the mechanic work for other games? How can mobile gaming benefit from the short-term servers?

Continue reading MMObility: The argument for a time-limited server

MassivelyMMObility: The argument for a time-limited server originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desert-6aloriahbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedfeaturedMMObilitymmortsmobiletime-limited-servertimed-servertraviantravian-gamesFri, 06 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spacetime Studios working on new mobile MMO Dark Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/spacetime-studios-working-on-new-mobile-mmo-dark-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/spacetime-studios-working-on-new-mobile-mmo-dark-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/spacetime-studios-working-on-new-mobile-mmo-dark-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dark Legends logo
Spacetime Studios, the developer of popular mobile MMO titles Pocket Legends and Star Legends, has announced that it has begun work on a new mobile game following the Legends format. The new title, about which we know virtually nothing aside from the fact that it exists, is called Dark Legends. Ominous, right? DroidGamers reports that Spacetime Studios CEO Gary Gattis has stated that "Dark Legends will be a bit of a departure from the formula that Pocket Legends established as we innovate on lessons learned." So there's clearly a new twist to the studio's standard gameplay, but we'll just have to wait and see what that twist may be.

MassivelySpacetime Studios working on new mobile MMO Dark Legends originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-legendsdroidf2pfree-to-playgary-gattismobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmospocket-legendsspacetime-studiosstar-legendsTue, 03 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your lootables and chatables on with Trion's new RIFT iOS app]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/get-your-lootables-and-chatables-on-with-trions-new-rift-ios-ap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/get-your-lootables-and-chatables-on-with-trions-new-rift-ios-ap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/get-your-lootables-and-chatables-on-with-trions-new-rift-ios-ap/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RIFT Mobile
With little fanfare, Trion Worlds has released an iPhone mobile app this past weekend for RIFT that should make staying in touch with guildies and in-game events far easier for the on-the-go set.

The app is called RIFT Mobile and is currently available for the low, low price of "free." The app allows RIFT players to talk to friends and guildies whether they're in-game or also using the app -- and yes, there are push notifications if you so desire. The app also supports guild and officer chat, guild messages of the day, zone event notifications, and the guild wall.

Probably the most intriguing feature of the RIFT Mobile app is something called "Lootables" -- ways to earn actual in-game loot while using the app. The app is available in English, French and German languages and can be used only by current players of the game. A community rep on the official forums has confirmed that it's "an early release/beta" and that more official info is on the way.

[Thanks to Valotith for the tip!]

MassivelyGet your lootables and chatables on with Trion's new RIFT iOS app originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple-appapple-storebetaguildguild-chatiosios-appiphone-applootablesmobilemobile-appmobile-tie-inriftrift-mobilesmartphonetriontrion-worldszone-eventsSun, 01 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: The year in mobile]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/mmobility-the-year-in-mobile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/mmobility-the-year-in-mobile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/mmobility-the-year-in-mobile/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

What a year, huh? We gamers have seen a lot of changes, but especially in the mobile market. New devices came and went, technologies spread out even further in the world, and MMO gaming established itself on the smallest screens possible. Of course, the mobile market is not as large as the standard MMO market, but it is definitely growing. As more devices appear, more players come to fill up the games.

Our phones are not what they used to be, even five years ago. They are now truly tiny and powerful computing devices that are always connected. A player can literally live all of his digital life on one small device. If we look at the laptop and netbook market, we see even more growth and power. All of these devices need games to play on them, and MMOs fit perfectly into the mobile lifestyle.

Click past the cut and I'll recap many of the best stories from Massively's mobile coverage!

Continue reading MMObility: The year in mobile

MassivelyMMObility: The year in mobile originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedchromeconquer-onlineempire-onlinef2pfacebookfeaturedfleckfree-to-playftpGameloftglitchgraal-onlinehotdog-studiohphp-touchpadIOSipadiphoneMMObilitymobilenc-softOnLiveorder-and-chaos-onlinepocket-legendsself-aware-gamesshadow-citiesspacetime-studiosstar-legendsstewart-butterfieldtiny-speckworld-of-magicWorld-of-WarcraftyslandiaFri, 30 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Simplifying design for the mobile market]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/mmobility-simplifying-design-for-the-mobile-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/mmobility-simplifying-design-for-the-mobile-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/mmobility-simplifying-design-for-the-mobile-market/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Whenever I write up something about a smartphone MMO, one of the most common complaints I hear is this: "If I wanted to play a game for several hours, I would sit at my gaming desktop." While this is true for many players, it is also true that games like Star Legends and Pocket Legends by Spacetime Studios have met with a lot of success. The developers were surprised to find that players were more than willing to sit for several hours while playing the games on their tiny screens.

Still, there is a lot of truth to the complaints about smartphone MMOs. An MMO is typically something a player wants to get lost in. We commonly refer to it as "immersion," but really we're just talking about being sucked into the ideas and design of a title. If you have found yourself daydreaming about a game while at work, you were "immersed."

I would argue that this type of deep immersion is very possible on the smaller screens of smartphones and tablets. However, in order to achieve it more commonly, developers might have to adjust many of their designs and theories. Click past the cut and we'll discuss it!

Continue reading MMObility: Simplifying design for the mobile market

MassivelyMMObility: Simplifying design for the mobile market originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsbeau-hindmanEQ2EverQuest-2everquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfleckMMObilitymobilemobile-mmomobile-mmospocket-legendssmartphonesmartphone-appsmartphone-mmoSOEspacetime-studiosstar-legendstheres-an-app-for-thatwizard-101wizard101wizardbloxFri, 23 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Pocket Legends and Star Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/rise-and-shiny-recap-pocket-legends-and-star-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/rise-and-shiny-recap-pocket-legends-and-star-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/rise-and-shiny-recap-pocket-legends-and-star-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Star Legends screenshot
This week my job was a bit harder than it usually is. This week I had to revisit Pocket Legends and Star Legends, the entirety of the Spacetime Studios lineup, in order to catch the updates and differences since both games were recently adapted to play within the Chrome browser.

See, the device that you play an MMO on does make a difference. While I haven't found many players who have an issue with moving up to a finer machine with a larger screen, I almost always receive a few comments in any of my mobile MMO columns about the lack of fun involved with playing anything on a screen that will fit in your hand. While I understand the difficulty in downgrading your monitor size, the mobile market's reception of Pocket Legends surprised even the developer. People are playing it, for many hours, on screens that are very small.

But now we have the ability to play it in our browser. Does it make a difference in the experience? Click past the cut and I'll let you know.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Pocket Legends and Star Legends

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Pocket Legends and Star Legends originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddungeon-fighter-onlinefeaturedlivestreammobilemobile-mmonexonpocket-legendsrise-and-shinyside-scrollingsmartphonespacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsvideovideosWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 18 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST