Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Art of Wushu: Paying doesn't mean winning]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/the-art-of-wushu-paying-doesnt-mean-winning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/the-art-of-wushu-paying-doesnt-mean-winning/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/the-art-of-wushu-paying-doesnt-mean-winning/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Art of Wushu Paying doesn't mean winning
Age of Wushu has come under a lot of fire as a pay-to-win game. There are ways to get in-game power for out-of-game money, so there are a lot of reasons to assume that real cash can turn you into one of the top fighters in Jianghu.

Fortunately for the dedicated players (and to the chagrin of cash shop whales), the truth is a bit more skewed. There are varying degrees of pay-to-win cash shops, but Age of Wushu's cash shop provides very few outlets to directly buy power. The main culprit is the simple fact that spending real money can give a player silver to spend on anything he or she wants.

Silver is king in Age of Wushu. The entire player market revolves around silver, and the largest source of it comes from the cash shop. Does this mean you need to pay to have a chance?

Continue reading The Art of Wushu: Paying doesn't mean winning

MassivelyThe Art of Wushu: Paying doesn't mean winning originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinage-of-wushuart-of-wushucash-shopcash-shopschinachinesechinese-mythologycolumncultivationepic-mountfeaturedgoes-fasthorseinternal-cultivationkung-fumartial-artsmartial-trainingmountneigongopinionpay-to-winpay-to-win-debatesandboxsnail-gamessnail-games-usatangmentangmen-goes-fastwushuwuxiaWed, 13 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft releases a new member of the sparklepony family]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/world-of-warcraft-releases-a-new-member-of-the-sparklepony-famil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/world-of-warcraft-releases-a-new-member-of-the-sparklepony-famil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/world-of-warcraft-releases-a-new-member-of-the-sparklepony-famil/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I think it looks nice, but mileage may vary. (Image from MMO-Champion.)
The Internet exploded with rage when World of Warcraft released a mount for $25 the first time around. But it sold well, and as a result we've seen several new mounts released for the game over the years. So the new Swift Windsteed likely won't raise many eyebrows over its release or its now-familiar price point, which is the same $25 you have probably come to expect.

As with previous special mounts, the Swift Windsteed can operate as a flying mount and will scale to match your highest riding speed, making it a purely cosmetic option. The unlock is account-wide once purchased, giving all present and future characters a free mount for all-purpose use in perpetuity. So if you collect mounts or just feel like you could use a qilin to carry you across the skies of Azeroth, you've got reason to be excited.

MassivelyWorld of Warcraft releases a new member of the sparklepony family originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopfantasymicrotransactionmountmountssparkle-ponyswift-windsteedwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 08 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA entices players to buy boxed copies with a totally sweet lion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/tera-entices-players-to-buy-boxed-copies-with-a-totally-sweet-li/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/tera-entices-players-to-buy-boxed-copies-with-a-totally-sweet-li/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/13/tera-entices-players-to-buy-boxed-copies-with-a-totally-sweet-li/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sorry, I was waiting on a panther.
You are a discerning consumer. You've looked at the the box for TERA many a time, and you've said to yourself, "I would enjoy this game... but not yet. No, I want to wait until buying this box gives me an awesome lion to ride around as a mount. I will name her Karen." If this sounds like you, good news! Your oddly specific desire has been rewarded with the game's newest promotion!

So how do you go about getting this completely awesome lion mount, technically referred to by the game as the tawny huntress? You just buy a boxed copy of the game and enter the authorization code backwards. The promotion also rewards you with two emeralds and two semi-enigmatic scrolls, but the lion is the centerpiece. However, this promotion is only valid for boxed copies of the game bought on or after December 12th. If you already have a box, you're a bit out of luck, but anyone waiting on a free lion has just lucked out.

MassivelyTERA entices players to buy boxed copies with a totally sweet lion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosboxboxed-copyen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygame-promotionlionmountpromotionpromotional-offerretail-boxteratotally-sweet-lionThu, 13 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's LotRO Riders of Rohan launch-day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/15/massivelys-lotro-riders-of-rohan-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/15/massivelys-lotro-riders-of-rohan-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/15/massivelys-lotro-riders-of-rohan-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online title image
When you first heard about Lord of the Rings Online, you probably had an idea of which areas from the Lord of the Rings lore you'd want to visit and which events you'd like to take part in. Not all of the areas in Middle-earth were part of LotRO when it launched, but with each expansion the game world gets a bit more complete. Developer Turbine has been hard at work developing iconic areas like the Mines of Moria and Isengard, but the zone players have been anticipating the most is the Plains of Rohan.

The Riders of Rohan expansion goes live today, opening the visually stunning Plains of Rohan area and introducing tons of new content, class updates and gameplay changes. Developers have been careful to capture the feel of the plains in not only the area's art style but also its impressive musical score. The Riders of Rohan expansion adds a new mounted combat feature that lets players fight on customisable war horses. The open plains are filled with roving warbands of orcs and other challenges to be overcome. Read on for a run-down of all the latest news on the Riders of Rohan expansion.

Continue reading Massively's LotRO Riders of Rohan launch-day roundup

MassivelyMassively's LotRO Riders of Rohan launch-day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artbreakingburglarcaptainchampionclass-changesexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playguardianhunterlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelore-masterloremasterlotromines-of-moriaminstrelmountmounted-combatmountsmusicriders-of-rohanrohanround-uprounduprune-keeperrunekeeperturbineturbine-entertainmentwar-horseMon, 15 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The low-tier ships of Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/captains-log-the-low-tier-ships-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/captains-log-the-low-tier-ships-of-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/01/captains-log-the-low-tier-ships-of-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

STO Vesta
It seems as if most MMOs have their own version of the "mount," something that allows for faster travel from one area of the game's world to another. Mounts are known as being one of the key "shinies" that players can buy in a game, and they come with different costumes or extended health parameters to allow a player to escape a surprise attack from an unseen enemy. For the most part, they're meant to be modes of transportation only.

But in Star Trek Online, the game's mounts -- its ships -- are far more than just a means of getting from one area of sector space to another. They are the player's second character, a complementary entity that engages in battle in a very different way than the characters created at the beginning of the game.

In this installment of my series of tips for new players, I will begin to address the ships of Star Trek Online, specifically the Federation ships available to the first three ranks in the game.

Continue reading Captain's Log: The low-tier ships of Star Trek Online

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The low-tier ships of Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguideguidesmountmountsopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fishipshipsSpidermitchstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 01 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO hands over war-steed reins in dev diary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/lotro-hands-over-war-steed-reins-in-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/lotro-hands-over-war-steed-reins-in-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/lotro-hands-over-war-steed-reins-in-dev-diary/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

LotRO hands over warsteed reins in dev diary
The Lord of the Rings Online team is hard at work putting the final touches on next month's Riders of Rohan, and a new dev diary shines a spotlight on the expansion's star attraction: trainable war-steeds.

The article gives a brief overview of the types of mounts -- light, medium, and heavy -- as well as the trait trees that accompany them. According to the devs, each war-steed will have 32 potential traits to unlock. The good news, they say, is that retraiting a mount is easily accomplished on the fly for the cost of a few coins.

The devs round out the post by sharing a few of their favorite traits and skills that war-steeds boast. These include feigning injury to dump threat, trampling enemies, giving additional damage to attacking from behind, and boosting crit chance by a whopping 25%.

MassivelyLotRO hands over war-steed reins in dev diary originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-diariesdev-diaryexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromountmounted-combatmountsriders-of-rohanrorsteedsturbineturbine-entertainmentwar-steedThu, 13 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Order & Chaos dropping subscription, adding PvP modes and mounts [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/order-and-chaos-dropping-subscription-adding-pvp-modes-and-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/order-and-chaos-dropping-subscription-adding-pvp-modes-and-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/order-and-chaos-dropping-subscription-adding-pvp-modes-and-mounts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Order & Chaos dropping subscription, adding PvP modes and mounts
Gameloft's mobile MMO is entering a new phase in its lifecycle. The studio announced that Order & Chaos is not only due for a major update, but is dropping its nominal subscription fee to make it completely free-to-play.

The update, which is slated to be pushed to iOS devices later this month, will contain important features for the pint-sized title. First up are PvP combat arenas, which come in 1v1, 2v2, 3v3, and 4v4 varieties. Next is the addition of four new mounts to the game: two horses and two giant wolves. Finally, Gameloft is adding the second part of the Salien dungeon for hardcore adventurers.

Previously, Order & Chaos charged $0.99 a month or $2.99 for six months to access on top of the original app purchase price. Gameloft is also developing a spin-off title called Order & Chaos Heroes.

[Update: Gameloft contacted us to clarify that there is still a fee for the game's download, but there is no subscription fee and current players will pay nothing extra.]

[Source: Gameloft press release]

MassivelyOrder & Chaos dropping subscription, adding PvP modes and mounts [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeonf2pfantasyfree-to-playgameloftinfographicipadmobilemobile-mmomountmountsorder-and-chaosorder-and-chaos-heroesorder-and-chaos-onlinepatchpreviewpvpsaliensubscriptionupdateWed, 08 Aug 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge trailer shows off new houses and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/archeage-trailer-shows-off-new-houses-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/archeage-trailer-shows-off-new-houses-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/archeage-trailer-shows-off-new-houses-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

ArcheAge
ArcheAge is a little more than a week away from its fifth closed beta test, and the new features up for testing are being highlighted one by one. The newest trailer introduces the Mirage Island, a location where players will be able to window shop and preview different sorts of items.

The video shows players testing out mounts, looking at fancy clothes, and inspecting houses. The island allows players to try out items and see what suits their fancy, with everything from adorable pets (which can grow up to be big, strong mounts!) to miniaturized towers lined up side-by-side for comparison.

Jump below the cut to see for yourself.

Continue reading ArcheAge trailer shows off new houses and more

MassivelyArcheAge trailer shows off new houses and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaarche-agearcheagebetabeta-testcbtcbt-5closed-beta-testfantasyisland-of-illusionmirage-islandmountpet-systempvpsandboxsandparktrailervideovideosxl-gamesxlgamesTue, 07 Aug 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT offers a new cat mount for sale]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/rift-offers-a-new-cat-mount-for-sale-to-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/rift-offers-a-new-cat-mount-for-sale-to-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/rift-offers-a-new-cat-mount-for-sale-to-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's still at least five dollars more than I'd be willing to pay, but hey, it's cool that the offer is extended. The jokes, unfortunately, wrote themselves.
In a bold move not at all reminiscent of the actions of any other gaming company, Trion Worlds has launched a new product for RIFT players to purchase via the account page. It's a special mount, a white tiger that we imagine would be extremely sparkly due to all of the gold trim and so forth. And it can be yours for the low price of $15, which is $10 less than it would be if it cost $25!

Tongue-in-cheek jokes aside, the White War Tiger was originally an exclusive bonus for players of RIFT over in Korea. The mount has been ported over to the US version for a limited time so that more players can access it. If you've already got your wallet out, just log into the main site and check in the same spot for the game edition upgrades to get your very own tiger. While it may sparkle, you can take solace in the fact that it does not fly.

[Thanks to soundersfc.tif for the tip!]

MassivelyRIFT offers a new cat mount for sale originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestfantasymicrotransactionsmountmountspvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsnarksparkle-kittysparkle-ponysparkle-tigerthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsThu, 12 Jul 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO devs show off its mounted combat system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/03/lotro-devs-show-mounted-combat-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/03/lotro-devs-show-mounted-combat-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/03/lotro-devs-show-mounted-combat-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

LotRO devs explain mounted combat system
While the upcoming Riders of Rohan expansion for Lord of the Rings Online promises a great wealth of content for players, undoubtedly its keystone feature is mounted combat. This system became the centerpiece of a filmed discussion between CM Rick Heaton and Producer Aaron Campbell.

One of the concerns that Heaton addresses is how player classes will translate once on horseback. Campbell says that the team has created ways for those roles to continue, albeit in a slightly different form. One example given was how Guardians can taunt, except that on horseback, it means that the enemy will then start riding alongside of you. "You can bring them in and control the battlefield," Campbell says.

Other points of discussion include how Fellowships work while mounted, the different stances (aggressive, utility, and defensive), the speed of combat, and situational awareness. The pair also gives us a first glimpse of mounted combat in action.

You can watch the full dev video after the jump!

Continue reading LotRO devs show off its mounted combat system

MassivelyLotRO devs show off its mounted combat system originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jul 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaron-campbelldev-diarydev-videoexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playhorsehorseback-combatlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromountmounted-combatmountsrick-heatonriders-of-rohanrorrowansapienceturbineturbine-entertainmentvideowar-steedTue, 03 Jul 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: The superiority of goats]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/the-road-to-mordor-the-superiority-of-goats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/the-road-to-mordor-the-superiority-of-goats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/the-road-to-mordor-the-superiority-of-goats/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Road to Mordor The superiority of goats
I love goats. OK, pipe down there. I mean that I love the goat mounts in Lord of the Rings Online. Shush! Man, this column isn't starting well. It sounded better in my head.

It's a well-known fact that LotRO lacks the mount diversity shown by most other fantasy MMOs. It's pretty much horses all the way down, and chances are it's going to stay that way thanks to the IP. Unless, of course, the devs give in to my flying eagles suggestion. There just isn't much wiggle-room in Tolkien's works for the Free People of Middle-earth to be taking a 2012 Mechanospider to work.

However, the devs did shoehorn in one different flavor of mount for the Mines of Moria expansion. Goats received a room at the stable and were integral to navigating through the labyrinthine deeps. They never did match horses in terms of popularity or even variety, and I doubt that we'll be seeing War-goats for Riders of Rohan. Still, if I had my pick (and I do), I'd pick goats any day of the week. They're so much better than horses, and I'm going to tell you just why.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: The superiority of goats

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: The superiority of goats originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 30 Jun 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionf2pfantasyfeaturedflying-eagle-mountsfree-to-playgoatgoatslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-storemines-of-moriamountmountsopinionreprep-grindreputationreputation-grindriders-of-rohanroad-to-mordorrorthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentyeah-justin-turned-in-an-article-about-goatsSat, 30 Jun 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO launches its Fifth Anniversary Festival]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/lotro-launches-its-fifth-anniversary-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/lotro-launches-its-fifth-anniversary-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/lotro-launches-its-fifth-anniversary-festival/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

LotRO
Lord of the Rings Online's fifth anniversary is upon us, and Turbine is determined to make it a party to remember! Today the studio has released LotRO's Update 6.1, the centerpiece of which is the completely revamped and upgraded Anniversary Festival.

While the anniversary was perceived as a haphazard affair in previous years, Turbine's devs have fleshed it out to rival the other four annual festivals. The focus of the Anniversary Festival is on fireworks and lots of them. There are several new quests to discover, a new fireworks-themed mount to obtain, and beer battles to win.

Because reaching five years is a big deal for any MMO, Turbine's also showering players with free gifts if they log in during this period. The gifts range from fireworks to cloaks to a special mount that is reserved for five-year veterans of the game.

During the anniversary, monsters will drop special tokens that can be redeemed for a wide variety of prizes. There's also a double-XP weekend coming up, which will run from April 24th through the 30th.

MassivelyLotRO launches its Fifth Anniversary Festival originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-anniversary5th-anniversary-festival6.16.1-updateanniversaryanniversary-festivalf2pfantasyfestivalfifth-anniversaryfifth-anniversary-festivalfireworksfree-to-playgiftslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromountpatchpatch-6.1patch-notesprizesturbineturbine-entertainmentupdateupdate-6.1update-notesMon, 16 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 throws massive mount sale]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/wizard101-throws-massive-mount-sale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/wizard101-throws-massive-mount-sale/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/wizard101-throws-massive-mount-sale/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wizard101
It's a good time to be in the market for a new mode of transportation, especially if you're a cash-strapped wizard or witch in Wizard101. The annual Mount-a-Palooza is back, and KingsIsle Entertainment is magically shrinking costs and teleporting in rare inventory to make as many customers as happy as possible.

From now through Sunday, April 22nd, players can snag any permanent mount in the in-game store at a whopping 60% off the list price. Some of the mounts in the store will be only available during this brief window, as KingsIsle is retiring four mounts at the end of the sale while bringing back three other previous retirees for impulse shoppers to peruse.

And if you like Wizard101 mounts, you might want to keep an eye on Massively tomorrow. Our crystal ball says that your future may look bright if you do!

MassivelyWizard101 throws massive mount sale originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealdiscountf2pfree-to-playkingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmountmount-a-poloozamountssalewizard101Thu, 12 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon offers exclusive mount for TERA pre-orders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/amazon-offers-exclusive-mount-for-tera-pre-orders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/amazon-offers-exclusive-mount-for-tera-pre-orders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/amazon-offers-exclusive-mount-for-tera-pre-orders/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA
With TERA's May launch coming up in under a month, the window to pre-order the action MMO is shrinking daily. Those who are loyal members of the En Masse Army have a tough decision to make at this juncture: Where should you pre-order? Amazon hopes that you'll choose it, of course, and has a unique bonus to tip your favor in its direction.

Amazon has worked out a special deal with En Masse to entice players to its store. Those who pre-order with Amazon.com will be guaranteed an in-game horse mount that's decked out in all manner of wicked-looking armor (note that the armor appearance gives no armor bonuses.) It's called the Pinto, and it won't be found anywhere else. In addition to this special mount, pre-orders guarantee a three-day head start to the game, name reservations, and in-game gear.

There's added incentive to getting in on any of TERA's pre-orders if you haven't already, as they'll secure your spot in the next beta test, which is scheduled for April 20th. Also be sure to check out a new teaser trailer after the jump that was released exclusively for Amazon for those looking to learn a bit more about the game.

Continue reading Amazon offers exclusive mount for TERA pre-orders

MassivelyAmazon offers exclusive mount for TERA pre-orders originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.comarmored-pintobetabeta-testbeta-weekendblueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasymountopen-beta-testpre-orderpre-order-bonusesteratrailerunique-mountvideoFri, 06 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Ride to ruin and the world's ending!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/the-road-to-mordor-ride-to-ruin-and-the-worlds-ending/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/the-road-to-mordor-ride-to-ruin-and-the-worlds-ending/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/24/the-road-to-mordor-ride-to-ruin-and-the-worlds-ending/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

LotRO
Mounted combat's been on my mind a lot lately, particularly when I was galloping around Dunland and various clansmen knocked me off my horse. It was then that I wished I had a skill called "Trample to a Bloody Pulp -- For Rohan!" and that Turbine would finally earn that AO rating it's always craved. Barring that skill, I would just love a massive war horse that would send enemies fleeing from me instead of making a beeline for my knees (which are a prime target for arrows).

I'm both excited and nervous about the mounted combat system coming in Riders of Rohan. I'm excited that it will open up a new style of gameplay in this five-year-old game and nervous that it'll drag Lord of the Rings Online down if it's not done right. Whatever type of horseback combat we might envision will surely be different than the final product, and that uncertainty leaves me feeling in limbo.

More than anything else, Riders of Rohan is about mounted combat. Turbine's centering the expansion around it, dedicating an entire zone to it, and developing loads of assets and skills for it, and the company will undoubtedly be hyping it strongly over the course of the summer. It's a bold step to take but a necessary one as well, as the IP and nation of Rohan are steeped in mounted combat, and it's been a little weird that we've had to dismount to swing a sword ever since leaving the shire.

So will mounted combat prevail, fail, or muddle in the middle?

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Ride to ruin and the world's ending!

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Ride to ruin and the world's ending! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Age-of-Conanargent-tournamenteast-plainsf2pFallen-EarthfantasyfeaturedForsaken-Worldfree-to-playjoustinglord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromountmounted-combatmountsopinionriders-of-rohanrise-of-isengardroad-to-mordorrohanTales-of-Fantasythe-road-to-mordortrampleturbineturbine-entertainmentwar-horseswar-steedwar-steedswarbandsworld-of-warcraftSat, 24 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Did someone say 3.0?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/wings-over-atreia-did-someone-say-3-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/wings-over-atreia-did-someone-say-3-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/wings-over-atreia-did-someone-say-3-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia header
You might be a bit weary of hearing about the launch of Aion's next big thing. Then again, maybe you just can't get enough. Everyone in the former group can conclude his reading here because this week's Ascension launch date announcement and subsequent information deluge offered plenty of new tidbits to share. And share I must. It is my civic duty.

Previously, we explored the different aspects of 3.0 using the translated Korean patch notes. Those are all well and good for giving us a good basis for what to expect, but there are always little changes in the western release of the game (see instance names), not to mention exact details of some of the systems (like mounts) are lacking. Luckily Aion's newly released official game guide, though incomplete, has new information to pass along to interested Daevas. And let's not forget the unexpected goodness of the impending free-to-play model. Yup, I can definitely find a few more things to chat about there.

If you are still reading, then either you had your interest rekindled or you are patiently waiting for me to get to the goods. So let's get on with it!

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Did someone say 3.0?

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Did someone say 3.0? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.03.0-patchaionaion-3.0Aion-AscensionArden-ManorascensionDorgal-ManorElementis-Forestf2pfabledfabled-gearfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playLandis-Forestmountmountsncsoftopinionpatch-3.0Rentus-Basetruly-freewings-over-atreiaMon, 19 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0, second verse]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0-second-verse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0-second-verse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0-second-verse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia header
Encore!

You are my expansion,
My favorite expansion,
You'll make me happy
With a house and more.
You have to know, dear,
How much I want you!
Please hurry the expansion to my door!

Just when I thought I was getting a handle on waiting for Aion's sorta-soon-to-be-released 3.0 patch, NCsoft went and announced a slightly less nebulous launch date of "this spring." Our patch-to-be even has the auspicious privilege of having a name: Ascension. And you know a name means extra special! WOOO! I, of course, started a requisite wing-flapping celebratory dance, but my tune soon changed: As exciting as this news was, I quickly realized that the more concrete the knowledge, the more I wanted it to release already. GAH -- this wait is truly taxing my patience! There is just so much to look forward to.

Last week I regaled you with a stirring, soulful rendition of anticipation for 3.0. Together we explored just a few of the goodies in store for patient and -- luckily for me -- not-so-patient Daevas alike. This week the recital continues, and as promised, Wings Over Atreia takes another peek at more of the features coming our way and highlights some of the more tantalizing additions and changes, including new fortresses with their own unique siege system, XP changes, mounts, and more.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0, second verse

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0, second verse originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.03.0-patchaionaion-3.0aion-ascensionaion-crucibleaion-gameexpansionfeaturedgrind-reductionmountmountsnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpatch-3.0reducing-grindreducing-xp-grindsiegesiegessiegingvehiclevehiclesxp-grindMon, 27 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's buried treasure resurfaces in a new dev diary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/lotros-buried-treasure-resurfaces-in-a-new-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/lotros-buried-treasure-resurfaces-in-a-new-dev-diary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/lotros-buried-treasure-resurfaces-in-a-new-dev-diary/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
Deep under the soil of Middle-earth are riches galore, and only the Dwarves know where to dig. Fortunately for players, the Dwarves are totally fine with interlopers coming along to try their luck at finding a bit of buried treasure -- and they've even made an event out of it.

While we previously saw a test run of the Buried Treasure event in Lord of the Rings Online, Turbine's put forth a dev diary that indicates we should be seeing more of it fairly soon. The event challenges players to flock to a treasure field, grab some picks, and get diggin' for booty. There's a strategy behind it that utilizes trained animals and dowsing sticks to find the best goods, although treasure hunters can just start digging randomly as well.

The treasure will vary in size and quality, ranging from special mounts and cosmetic gear to more picks and barter tokens. While players can earn picks in-game through a repeatable quest, Turbine will also be selling them through the LotRO store for those who want to speed up their winnings.

The dev diary posted several pictures of the nifty rewards that can be mined and states that the event is "seasonally agnostic," coming and going at various times during the year.

MassivelyLotRO's buried treasure resurfaces in a new dev diary originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buried-treasureburied-treasure-eventcosmeticcosmetic-outfitdev-diaryeventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-storemountoutfitoutfitspickstreasure-hunter-picktreasure-huntingtreasure-hunting-pickturbineturbine-entertainmentFri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battle.net Balance boots up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/battle-net-balance-boots-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/battle-net-balance-boots-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/battle-net-balance-boots-up/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Battle.net
Diablo III may not be out yet, but that's no good reason not to be filling up your virtual coffers for the day that it hits the streets! Blizzard has thrown the switch on Battle.net Balance, activating its online payment service that allows players to charge up their Battle.net funds to purchase various Blizzard game services.

The new Balance system can be used to buy World of Warcraft game time (although you can't set up a recurring subscription with it), in-game pets and mounts, paid account services in WoW such as character transfers, digital copies of Blizzard titles, and the opportunity to buy and sell items on Diablo III's auction house. It's important to note that not all regions will be able to participate in Diablo III's real-money transactions, however.

Once real money has been funneled into Battle.net Balance, it cannot be converted back into cash. Blizzard does state that in some regions, players will have an option to get cash back on Diablo III auction sales via PayPal. The company also mentioned that there is a cap on how much any player can have in his or her Balance account and that there are potentially region-specific expiration dates for Balance funds.

MassivelyBattle.net Balance boots up originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle.netbattle.net-balancebattlenetd3diablo-3diablo-iiidiiigame-timemicrotransactionsmountmountspaypalpetpetsreal-money-tradingreal-money-transactionsrmtsubscriptionsvirtual-walletworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earn prizes in Allods Online's 14-day giveaway event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/earn-prizes-in-allods-onlines-14-day-giveaway-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/earn-prizes-in-allods-onlines-14-day-giveaway-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/earn-prizes-in-allods-onlines-14-day-giveaway-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Allods Online title image
To celebrate the upcoming release of Allods Online's patch 3.0, gPotato is giving away prizes to players who log in on the days leading up to and following the patch. The event starts on February 7th and will run until February 21st, with the patch arriving in the middle on February 14th. Players who log in for a full hour each day during the event will receive progressively valuable rewards, with the best reward saved for those who log in for an hour during all 14 days.

Prizes start with special coins for the first day and rapidly ramp up to consumables and costumes, with a Sinister Lion mount for players who log in during all 14 days. To qualify each day, one hour must be spent playing the game before midnight by your server's clock; the time can be split across multiple characters on your account and the prizes are limited to one set per account. gPotato requests that all players entering the contest log out before midnight each day as staying logged in may make you ineligible for that day. As this is a tiered event, players who miss even a single day will never be able to get the top prize of a Sinister Lion mount. For a full list of prizes and contest terms, head over to the official contest announcement.

MassivelyEarn prizes in Allods Online's 14-day giveaway event originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalcompetitioncontestcostumeseventf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatomountnewsplay-for-rewardsprizessinister-lionSun, 05 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Mechanized vs. monster mounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/leaderboard-mechanized-vs-monster-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/leaderboard-mechanized-vs-monster-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/leaderboard-mechanized-vs-monster-mounts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Leaderboard
Unless you're stuck in the invisible wall, no jumping, running-with-your-hands-flopping-about hell of Guild Wars, chances are you've gotten the opportunity to pick up a mount or two in an MMO. It's one of the ways that MMOs are so superior to the real world: There are no driver tests, no insurance policies, no (usually) gas. You just plop down some money and the vendor looks the other way while you go off-roading in a major metropolitan area.

But it wouldn't be a Leaderboard if we didn't force you to choose between your '67 Mustang and your pet Tauntaun, and so it shall be. In the world of mounts, there are two categories: the mechanized and the monsters. Vehicle mounts may be more rare due to fantasy's dominance over the genre, but they're still there and quite popular for the set that doesn't appreciate staring at horse doody all the live-long day. Then again, the fantastic creatures that have served as animal mounts are unceasing in variety as they are in style.

So what shall it be? Will you plug Old Yeller and go with your motorcycle, or will you mothball your favorite dune buggy in favor of Seabiscuit? Vote after the jump!

Continue reading Leaderboard: Mechanized vs. monster mounts

MassivelyLeaderboard: Mechanized vs. monster mounts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animalcarfeaturedguild-warsgwhorseleaderboardmechanizedmonstermotorcyclemountmountsold-yelleropinionpollseabiscuitvehiclevehiclesvotevotersvotesMon, 30 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do MMOs coddle us too much in the early game?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/the-daily-grind-do-mmos-coddle-us-too-much-in-the-early-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/the-daily-grind-do-mmos-coddle-us-too-much-in-the-early-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/the-daily-grind-do-mmos-coddle-us-too-much-in-the-early-game/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Aika
As much as I loved playing RIFT this year -- and I truly did -- one of my biggest critiques happened to be something beloved by many. This was the fact that the early game was so skewed toward giving you everything all at once: access to mounts and all of your class souls (and several builds). As nice as it was for the moment, I soon realized that it robbed me of that strong desire I usually have to want to level and reach significant milestones in my journey, as marked by finally getting said mount or finally gaining access to new classes.

The devs said that these changes were a result of player feedback, of which I have no doubt -- if you're going to ask players if they want everything as soon as they start a game, they're going to say "yes" whether it's a good idea or not. In practice, it felt like the game was coddling our new characters so much that we weren't put in much danger or had to struggle hard to gain these shiny toys.

What say you? In your MMO of choice, does the game coddle newbies so much that it picks them up every time they stub their toes, is it a perfect balance of challenge and ease, or is it even too difficult? Is coddling a good thing to retain new players or is it bad for the game over the long haul?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do MMOs coddle us too much in the early game? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildsclassclassescoddledevsearly-gamefeaturedmountmountsnewbiesopinionrifttdgthe-daily-grindWed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online adding mount emotes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/lord-of-the-rings-online-adding-mount-emotes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/lord-of-the-rings-online-adding-mount-emotes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/lord-of-the-rings-online-adding-mount-emotes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online
Emotes: They're not just for Elves, Hobbits, Dwarves, and Men any longer. Naaay, Turbine is preparing to give emote love in Lord of the Rings Online to player mounts as well. Players' horses and goats will soon be able to rear up, kick, and bow with the best of them.

While the emotes are not yet available in the game, CM Sapience announced on the forums that players have a chance to win one for free through the LotRO lottos:
All weekend long we'll be running lotteries for the brand new, unreleased, Mounted Rear Up emote. That's right, Mount Emotes are coming to the LotRO Store! Enter the lotteries this weekend and you could win it for free, before your friends can buy it. You'll have a few weeks to show it off and brag before it hits the LotRO Store.

Check back often as new lotteries will be starting randomly throughout the weekend and on Halloween!
The LotRO lottery system is available on the my.lotro website.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online adding mount emotes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-casual-stroll-to-mordorf2pfree-to-playgiveawaylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-lotterylotro-lottolotro-storemountmount-emotemount-emotesmountsmy.lotropromotionsapienceturbineturbine-entertainmentThu, 27 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest introduces pegasuses (pegasi?) to the Marketplace]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/everquest-introduces-pegasuses-pegasi-to-the-marketplace/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/everquest-introduces-pegasuses-pegasi-to-the-marketplace/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/everquest-introduces-pegasuses-pegasi-to-the-marketplace/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- EverQuest pegasus
Citizens of Norrath, have you ever wanted to soar about the land on the back of a horse that, inexplicably, has wings? If you answered yes, then you think about some awfully specific things. Also, you're in luck.

Sony Online Entertainment has announced that your dreams can now come true, as a number of pegasus mounts have been added to EverQuest's Marketplace. Yeah, that's right, it's going to cost you a bit of cash, but isn't it worth it to fly around on a frilly little equine-avian hybrid? Of course it is, now hush and go look at the pictures in the gallery below.

Gallery: EverQuest Pegasus mount

MassivelyEverQuest introduces pegasuses (pegasi?) to the Marketplace originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeverquestmarketplacemicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmountmountspegasipegasussoesony-online-entertainmentwhat-is-the-pluralWed, 12 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: A 'Top Gear' look at mounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/08/the-tattered-notebook-a-top-gear-look-at-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/08/the-tattered-notebook-a-top-gear-look-at-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/08/the-tattered-notebook-a-top-gear-look-at-mounts/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EQII fire spirit mount
Previously, I've been writing about the weighty topic of free-to-play vs. live subscription servers in EverQuest II. This week, I'd like to switch gears, both figuratively and literally, to talk about speed. I've recently become a fan of the show Top Gear, a British program(me) that is completely devoted to the love of cars. I don't know why -- I'm not really into cars, and my Volkswagon Passat Wagon hardly qualifies as a car with a soul. But I was watching a recent episode, the one in which Jeremy was driving an Aston Martin across country, and I thought about how far EQII's mount selection has grown. Gone are the days when your choices ranged from a horse with brown spots to a horse with white spots to the really impressive horse with brown and white spots. The only unique mounts back then were the Paladin and Shadow Knight "fun" mounts.

Today, there are dozens of different types of mounts that run, leap, glide, and fly. And they're not all just marketplace quick hits; several are easily attained from simple quests or live events. In this week's Tattered Notebook, I'll look at a few of my favorite mounts with an ode to Top Gear.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: A 'Top Gear' look at mounts

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: A 'Top Gear' look at mounts originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq-2eq-iieq2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-ii-extendedeverquest2favoritesfeaturedfire-spirit-steedflying-carpet-mountflying-mountsglidershorsehorse-of-a-different-colorhorseskaren-bryanmoonlight-enchantmentsmountmountsopiniontattered-notebooktop-geartreegliderSat, 08 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Ghosts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/choose-my-adventure-ghosts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/choose-my-adventure-ghosts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/choose-my-adventure-ghosts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Choose My Adventure: Ghosts
If any of you have been following me on Twitter, then you know that I have been extremely active in RIFT this week. However, I did not gain the levels I had hoped. I am currently level 17, which is nice, but I had hoped to be level 19 or 20 by now. I will definitely get there this week.

I cannot say this enough: Visually, RIFT is stunning. Below you'll find the gallery of my adventures; I included 19 new screenshots this week. They complement Seriia's story throughout Freemarch and especially the Scarred Mire. The gallery includes some excellent screenshots of Jakub the Tyrant, Alsbeth the Discordant, and March Warden Eliam. My new mount and the Abyssal visions from the daily half-birthday quests also make an appearance.

After the break, Seriia dreams of ghosts and tyrants. Eliam Fields seems to be a home for her; she loves the place. Also, I need your help with invasions -- I am not exactly performing the way I would like to in large group activities. Maybe a new soul will help. Let me know what you think after the break.

Let the Telaran adventure begin!

Gallery: CMA: RIFT

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Ghosts

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Ghosts originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alsbethalsbeth-the-discordantchoose-my-adventurecmaeliamfeaturedgalleryghostshauntedJakubkitterlivestreamloremountPatrekplanes-of-telarapollpollsriftrift-planes-of-telararoleplay-eventscarred-mirescreenshotsseriiatombstriontrion-worldsvideoWed, 07 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PvP, slivers and crocodiles: RIFT outlines patch 1.4]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/pvp-slivers-and-crocodiles-rift-outlines-patch-1-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/pvp-slivers-and-crocodiles-rift-outlines-patch-1-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/pvp-slivers-and-crocodiles-rift-outlines-patch-1-4/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While RIFT's patch 1.4 has been on the test servers for a couple weeks now, we've finally received concrete details about Trion Worlds' latest update to this dynamic MMO. Titled "Legacy of the Fallen," 1.4 follows up the recent world event with a new epic quest line and a 10-man instance revolving around the continued threat of the Abyssal.

The epic chain, called the Water Saga, not only reveals the truth about the origins of the Abyssal cult, but gives players an opportunity to score high-end loot and a special crocnard mount. Those looking for more group-oriented activities may want to check out the Drowned Halls, a 10-person sliver that presents an alternate view of history where the Abyssal have conquered Telara.

Patch 1.4 has plenty of PvP action as well, including PvP rifts and alternative forms of warfronts. There are plenty of other goodies in store from the RIFT team, including quest item storage, the LFG tool expanding cross-server, and several new crafting options. Currently, there is no date for the patch.

MassivelyPvP, slivers and crocodiles: RIFT outlines patch 1.4 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4abyssalalternate-historycraftingcrocnardcrocnard-mountcrocodiledrowned-hallsepic-quest-lineepic-storylinelegacy-of-the-fallenmountpatch-1.4pvppvp-riftsriftriftssliverthe-drowned-hallsthe-water-sagatriontrion-worldswater-sagaFri, 29 Jul 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ankama releases new Vulkania zone for DOFUS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/ankama-releases-new-vulkania-zone-for-dofus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/ankama-releases-new-vulkania-zone-for-dofus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/ankama-releases-new-vulkania-zone-for-dofus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DOFUS, the free-to-play fantasy MMO from Ankama, is embarking on a somewhat novel approach to new zone content. The game's newest map area is an archipelago called Vulkania, and it's only available to players during the months of July and August.

The isle features varying terrain including white sand beaches, tropical jungles, craters, and various caverns, not to mention strange wildlife. Among the new monster species are the sauroshell family and a pet/mount called a madreggon. According to an Ankama press release, "Vulkania is also home to Grozilla and Grasmera, two terrors who are back to shake the World of Twelve once more!"

The release also provides a concise summary of what we can expect from Vulkania aside from its monsters, and amenities include 40 new quests, 13 new equipment items, and 3 new titles. Check out the official DOFUS website for more.

MassivelyAnkama releases new Vulkania zone for DOFUS originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamadofusf2pfantasyfree-to-playgrasmeragrozillamadreggonmountpetpress-releasesauroshellvulkaniaThu, 07 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leapers and gliders swoop into EverQuest II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/leapers-and-gliders-swoop-into-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/leapers-and-gliders-swoop-into-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/leapers-and-gliders-swoop-into-everquest-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Slipping in under the cloud cover -- or soaring above it -- of a busy day for SOE is the news that leapers and gliders have landed in EverQuest II. These are special mounts for lower-level characters that allow them to get a taste of flight without the full thing, by giving them either the ability to "super-jump" or glide for a good distance.

We first heard about these mounts at E3, where David Georgeson revealed how players as young as level 30 could start earning their wings (so to speak). As part of this update, ground mounts have had their speeds significantly increased, going from 65% to as high as 130%. Ground mounts are still faster than leapers and gliders on land, and players will have to stick to the same category of mount for alternate appearances (no flying rhinos, alas).

EverQuest II has the details about where to get your spiffy new mounts, and don't miss our own thoughts about how these jumpers and soarers will change the landscape of the game!

MassivelyLeapers and gliders swoop into EverQuest II originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-appearancesdave-georgesondavid-georgesone3e3-2011eq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iiflyersflying-rhinoleapersmountmountssoesony-online-entertainmentFri, 24 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Do the shopping cart: Prius Online opens item shop]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/do-the-shopping-cart-prius-online-opens-item-shop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/do-the-shopping-cart-prius-online-opens-item-shop/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/do-the-shopping-cart-prius-online-opens-item-shop/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Prius Online has taken another step toward full-fledged release, as gPotato opened the doors to an in-game item shop today. As with many free-to-play titles, Prius Online will chug along under the power of microtransactions from shop purchases.

The item shop will hold an attractive array of fun and useful goods, ranging from costumes to mounts to all manner of helpful trinkets. To celebrate the shop's opening, Prius Online is handing out a free Leaf of Oblivion to players who log in between June 15th and 19th. The Leaf is capable of resetting your skill points, including your initial job choice, so that you can respec into a better build.

Prius Online went into open beta earlier this month, and any interested parties can check the game out by visiting the website and signing up!

MassivelyDo the shopping cart: Prius Online opens item shop originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopcostumef2pfree-to-playgala-netgpotatoitem-shopitem-storeleaf-of-oblivionmicrotransactionmountpriusprius-onlineWed, 15 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Press 1 to charge, press 2 to breathe fire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/one-shots-press-1-to-charge-press-2-to-breathe-fire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/one-shots-press-1-to-charge-press-2-to-breathe-fire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/one-shots-press-1-to-charge-press-2-to-breathe-fire/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We're kicking off Mount Week on One Shots with the perfect blend of traditional and futuristic mounts: a robot horse. Today's image comes to us from Massively reader Clinton:
In RIFT, players have an option of playing one of two separate factions -- the Guardians and the Defiant. It's been noted that Defiant have a heavy majority of the population on lots of servers, and people have been trying to figure out why for a while. It's been in front of everyone's noses all this time -- the mounts! Who wouldn't want to ride a silver robotic horse with a dragon's head for the hindquarters?
While we have to agree that a robot horse with a dragon's head on its hindquarters is the very embodiment of awesome, we also know that there are more mounts out there that are just as awesome and/or unusual. Prove us right and grab a screenshot of your finest ride, be it hooved, feathered, wheeled, or otherwise. Send it to oneshots@massively.com along with your name and the name of the game, and tell us a little about what we're seeing and how you came by that particular mount.

If you'd like a head-start on the following week, we'll be focusing on weird foes. Do you have a great shot of a dancing Abaddon in Guild Wars or a nose-picking foe from Gates of Andaron? Send those in too and we'll feature them on One Shots!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Press 1 to charge, press 2 to breathe fire originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 May 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>galleriesgallerymountmount-weekmountsone-shotsriftrift-planes-of-telarascreenshotscreenshotstriontrion-worldsMon, 30 May 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Shopping at the LotRO Depot]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/the-road-to-mordor-shopping-at-the-lotro-depot/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/the-road-to-mordor-shopping-at-the-lotro-depot/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/the-road-to-mordor-shopping-at-the-lotro-depot/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

About 99% of the time I'm in Lord of the Rings Online I never think about the LotRO Store. Ever since the store came online last year, it's been adventure as usual in the Olivetti household. Sure, I mock the "You got 5 Turbine Points! Now you can retire in the Caymans!" popups like everyone else, but I've always felt that Turbine does a good job balancing the store presence between the polar extremes of obnoxious and invisible.

That isn't to say I haven't used the store at all; on the contrary, I've been a sporadic if loyal customer of sorts, trundling my shopping cart through the aisles of Shire-Mart looking for a good deal. Thus far I haven't dropped any additional cash into the game, choosing to subsist on my monthly allotment of TP with whatever I earn through deeds. Every once in a while I'll boot up the store and see what niceties I can give to my character as a reward for slaughtering his 5,000th Neeker-beeker.

The LotRO Store has two categories of customers: the free-to-players and the upper class. Does that sound snooty? It's not intentional -- all I mean is that some folks use the store to provide basic necessities for gameplay (like quest packs, riding skills, class unlocks) while others are already well-off in the game and shop for luxury items. I'm in awe of the F2P gamers who can get a good chunk of their content by methodically knocking deeds out so they can purchase the next zone, but I'm fortunate enough not to have to do that.

So today I wanted to give myself an audit of what I've spent in the store so far and analyze whether they were wise purchases, wasteful frivolities, or overpriced insanity.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Shopping at the LotRO Depot

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Shopping at the LotRO Depot originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 May 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auditcash-shopdeeddeed-acceleratorf2pfeaturedfree-to-playin-game-storeitem-shopitem-storekill-acceleratorlegendary-itemslilord-of-the-rings-onlinelore-masterlotrolotro-depotlotro-storemilestonemountmountsneeker-beekeroutfitshop-smart-shop-shire-martshoppingstat-tomesstoragetptravelturbineturbine-entertainmentturbine-lemon-wedgeturbine-pointstwenty-first-hallupper-classvaultvirtueswardrobeFri, 20 May 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Explore Realms Online on a new mount from Massively and GameSamba]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/explore-realms-online-on-a-new-mount-from-massively-and-gamesamb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/explore-realms-online-on-a-new-mount-from-massively-and-gamesamb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/explore-realms-online-on-a-new-mount-from-massively-and-gamesamb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

GameSamba, one of the newest names in the free-to-play MMO world, has big plans for new titles this year. The company's third title, Realms Online, began open beta today, and we've got a gift for you to celebrate!

We've got an Alsius White Wolf mount so you can enter the game in style. "Brought to these lands by the Nordos, their predatory instinct made them some of the most feared beasts of the Icy Mountains. Since ancient times, the Nordos learned to tame them, making them one of the most attractive mounts available in the world."

Ready to saddle up and get into the game? Simply pick up your Alsius White Wolf code on our giveaway page and download Realms Online. Once you're in-game, press ESC and choose "Redeem Code" from the popup window.

Enjoy your new mount, and enjoy Realms Online!


TO THE GIVEAWAY

MassivelyExplore Realms Online on a new mount from Massively and GameSamba originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alsius-white-wolfcontestcontestsf2pfree-mountfree-to-playftpgamesambagiveawaygiveawaysmountmountsrealms-onlineTue, 03 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Creating your roadmap]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/the-road-to-mordor-creating-your-roadmap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/the-road-to-mordor-creating-your-roadmap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/the-road-to-mordor-creating-your-roadmap/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I wish to preface this week's column by saying that I'm not advocating just one way to play a game. I think it's equally valid to explore at your own pace, team up as a duo, maximize TP revenue, or set whatever goals you like and pursue them. But after leveling one character to the cap and playing several others, I've begun to develop a roadmap, if you will, that helps guide my progress somewhat efficiently. It's this roadmap that I want to share with you today.

The thing is, for all I love about Lord of the Rings Online, the game is definitely littered with timesinks of epic proportions. It already takes a long, long time to get your character up to 65 and through the two expansions, and that's only going to increase as the game grows. There are a lot of distractions and unnecessary grinds (such as virtues you will never use) that can bog you down too long and perhaps dishearten you.

So when I created a Minstrel in LotRO a little while back, I decided to map out his progress from level 1 through 65 by creating a broad framework -- an outline, really -- that serves to keep me on track so I don't have to backtrack as much later on to get these goals done. I have a very "two birds with one stone" mentality, so if I'm doing one task in a zone, I'd rather be accomplishing two or three at the same time. So for example, if I'm grinding out a deed, I'd rather do it at level at which I'm getting XP than 20 levels later when I'm not (although the latter has its merits for rapid deed completion).

Hit the jump and I'll give you the rundown of how to eliminate some of the confusion and speed bumps of leveling.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Creating your roadmap

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Creating your roadmap originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemastersdeedsepic-storylinefeaturedguidelegendary-itemslegendary-traitslevelingleveling-guidelord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrominstrelmountmountsriding-skillroadmapsara-oakheartskirmishestraitsturbineturbine-entertainmentturbine-pointsvirtuesvolume-1volume-2Fri, 04 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrate Zentia's upcoming patch with our mount giveaway!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/celebrate-zentias-upcoming-patch-with-our-mount-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/celebrate-zentias-upcoming-patch-with-our-mount-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/celebrate-zentias-upcoming-patch-with-our-mount-giveaway/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Zentia devs are gearing up to bring a lot of new content to their game. Patch 1.2 promises to bring even more fun to a game that already boasts a quirky and popular approach to free-to-play MMO gaming.

While you're waiting for the patch, enjoy some Zentia goodies courtesy of Massively. We've got three unusual mounts to help you zip around the game in style, and each one is built for two so you can bring a friend along for the ride. Check out our giveaway pages: the Thunder Drum is sure to garner a few glances as you pass by, or you could choose to recline in the comfy seats of a Colorful Umbrella. Want something a little more classic? We've got you covered with a good old Flying Carpet mount.

We've got 100 of each to give away, so choose your favorite and get ready to take to the skies in Zentia!

MassivelyCelebrate Zentia's upcoming patch with our mount giveaway! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chang-youcolorful-umbrellaf2pflying-carpetfree-to-playftpgiveawaygiveawaysmountmountsthunder-drumzentiaMon, 31 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Free ride]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/wasteland-diaries-free-ride/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/wasteland-diaries-free-ride/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/wasteland-diaries-free-ride/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Grand Canyon Province is where Fallen Earth is set. It is a vast place, and the public transit system is completely obliterated. Most of the towns are separated by kilometers, so walking (or running) from place to place would be sheer folly. Luckily there are alternatives to walking. If you've played Fallen Earth for any length of time, you probably know what I'm getting at. Transportation in the Grand Canyon can cost next to nothing once you get it figured out.

The goal of this post will be to get a new player up and running in the wasteland. Actually, up and driving and/or riding, rather. Once you know what to do, getting around is practically free. There are a number of ways to get yourself a better ride. Some of them involve a bit of work in-game and a good deal of time (mostly while you are offline). But there are shortcuts if your goal is to be tearing up the highways of Fallen Earth on a motorcycle as soon as possible. After the cut, I'll give you a step-by-step method of providing yourself with better transportation right up until you have a bike.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Free ride

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Free ride originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atvcraftingcrafting-vehiclesfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedhorsesicarusicarus-studiosmotorcyclemountmountsresearchscavengetradeskillsvehiclesFri, 28 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II's Destiny of Velious offers a trio of pre-orders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/everquest-iis-destiny-of-velious-offers-a-trio-of-pre-orders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/everquest-iis-destiny-of-velious-offers-a-trio-of-pre-orders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/everquest-iis-destiny-of-velious-offers-a-trio-of-pre-orders/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Which way would you like your EverQuest II: Destiny of Velious expansion pack? Sunny-side up? With fries? Medium-rare? If you like options, then SOE's assortment of pre-orders will have you pouring over the menu quite carefully.

Destiny of Velious became available for pre-orders yesterday, and EverQuest II's website lists three versions of the game available for purchase. The standard digital version is $39.99 and offers a loyal snow hound pet and four in-game paintings for your house as special rewards. If you want to kick it up a notch and shell out for the digital collector's edition, you'll get the snow hound, paintings, Tserrina's Wedding Present housing item, cosmetic ice armor, a prestige house and the ability to transform your griffon into a Stormfeather Brood Guardian. The collector's edition is temporarily priced at $59.99 for the next few weeks, and will go up to $89.99 on February 22nd.

There's also a retail version through Amazon and GameStop for those who prefer a physical copy of the game. The retail version contains the four paintings and an animated cloak as fun rewards. All versions of Destiny of Velious come with the core game and all of the expansions to date, and will include a full month of free gametime for new accounts. You can read all of the nitty-gritty details over at EverQuest II.

Update: Fixed the date of the CE price increase.

MassivelyEverQuest II's Destiny of Velious offers a trio of pre-orders originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazoncollectors-editiondestiny-of-veliousdigital-pre-orderdigital-versioneq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iigamestopmountpetpre-orderpre-orderssnow-houndsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 19 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Double-plus good: Luna Online expansion heading to test servers December 24th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/double-plus-good-luna-online-expansion-heading-to-test-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/double-plus-good-luna-online-expansion-heading-to-test-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/double-plus-good-luna-online-expansion-heading-to-test-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

And now for a public service announcement from your friends at Massively. Are you suffering from a severe cute deficiency in your MMO diet? Then you may want to consider Luna Online, which has 400% of the recommended daily allowance of big eyes, oversized heads and giggly animals.

To make your Luna Online life even better, gPotato has announced that the new expansion for the game, Luna Plus, is hitting the public test servers from December 24th through January 7th. Testers will be able to preview all of the new content and zones, including a 30-level increase (to the new level 150 cap), an additional race, a castle siege and seven previously unexplored areas. If that's not enough, Luna Plus will feature eight-person mounts, such as a giant snail. We just hope you and your party don't want to get anywhere in a pressing hurry.

Luna Online players have a lot to look forward to with this first expansion, especially with the ability to get their hands on it even earlier. For more information, ask your local librarian or head over to Luna Online. The more you know -- and knowing is half the battle.

MassivelyDouble-plus good: Luna Online expansion heading to test servers December 24th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castle-siegeclassexpansiongiggly-animalsgpotatoknowing-is-half-the-battlelevel-capluna-onlineluna-plusmountmountspsasnailtest-serverthe-more-you-knowThu, 23 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fly with the bears in Moonlight Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/fly-with-the-bears-in-moonlight-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/fly-with-the-bears-in-moonlight-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/fly-with-the-bears-in-moonlight-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Have you ever dreamed of a truly special mount in your MMO, perhaps a half-lion, half-tiger that you name a Liger? While Ligers may be a dream of the future, Moonlight Online has plenty of fanciful mounts now that don't easily fit in typical MMO stereotypes.

Coming soon to the game are a plethora of bizarrely beautiful mounts that run the spectrum from dinosaur (Megalosaurus), Harry Potter pal (Phoenix), combustible lupine (Flaming Wolf), round (Crystal Ball), blind (Bat), and two of the most unstoppable forces of nature combined into one (Angel Bear).

Players will be able to "evolve" these special mounts over time as well. Every time a mount levels up, it increases its attributes, gains faster speed, and even has the chance to gain a cool new skill, such an an AOE attack. Mounts also change in appearance as they evolve, which means that Angel Bear just got 100% more awesome.

Check out the new mounts as well as the game over at IGG's Moonlight Online forums.

MassivelyFly with the bears in Moonlight Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angel-bearcrystal-balldinosaurevolutionflaming-wolfgodless-soulless-killing-machinesharry-potteriggligermoonlightmoonlight-onlinemountmountsphoenixMon, 20 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Bits 'n' pieces]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/the-road-to-mordor-bits-n-pieces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/the-road-to-mordor-bits-n-pieces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/the-road-to-mordor-bits-n-pieces/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Three wolves. A full moon. One incredible cloak in the Lord of the Rings Online store. As a forum poster asked, is the Cloak of the Mountain Wolves too powerful and too intrinsically sweet?

I think it is a distinct possibility. I already own six and have Sauron on farm status because of them. Forget piddly rings -- this is the one cloak to rule them all, and in the darkness, blind them.

I'm a bit all over the place in today's column, so bear with me as I spew forth a 427-line stream-of-consciousness poem devoted to Aragorn's stubble. You totally know you want to hit the jump to read it. I triple-dog-dare ya.

[Editor -- No, Justin, you have to write a normal column. Don't make me get the fire hose.]

Darn.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Bits 'n' pieces

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Bits 'n' pieces originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aragorns-stubblebarter-walletcloak-of-the-mountain-wolvescosmetic-outfitdwarfelfenedwaithf2pfeaturedfestivalfree-to-playguardianhousing-decorationslone-landslord-of-the-rings-onlinelore-masterlotrolotro-storemarketingmirkwoodmoriamountnovember-updatepatchpierep-horsereputationrune-keepersantasauronshiresteed-of-nighttask-systemthree-wolf-moonturbineTurbine-Entertainmentupdatevaultvault-3.0winter-homeyule-festivalFri, 03 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST