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[Wings Over Atreia: This little Daeva went to market...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/wings-over-atreia-this-little-daeva-went-to-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/wings-over-atreia-this-little-daeva-went-to-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/wings-over-atreia-this-little-daeva-went-to-market/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia
Milk
Bread
Red Shell Potcrab
Life Leaf
Bulldozer...

You all know the old adage "Never go grocery shopping while hungry," right? It is sound advice for avoiding filling your cart with impulse purchases that might decimate your budget (and your waistline). How many of you have also used the shopping list tactic to try to minimize said impulse purchases? Well, you just might want to put that skill into practice when visiting Aion's BlackCloud Marketplace.

When the BlackCloud Marketplace launched last month, the inventory had pretty slim pickings for a game that needed to make all of its profit from the cash shop. Since all content in Aion is free, we knew more things would appear; it was just a matter of what and when. And even while there was still some trepidation about what items would be introduced over time (how many would play into the whole pay-to-win debate?), Daevas looked forward to new offerings and wondered what would be available next.

Wonder no more! Those little Shugos came in last Wednesday and stocked the marketplace shelves with over 100 new items. Some items were expected, some were not, and some were even clamored for by the masses. To help you construct your shopping list before heading to the store, Wing Over Atreia has perused the aisles for you to find what's new, what's interesting, and what's on special.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: This little Daeva went to market...

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: This little Daeva went to market... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionBlackCloud-Marketplacebonus-itemcash-shopcash-shop-bonuscash-shop-itemsCUBEdecoratingf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfurnishingsfurniturehousingmountsncsoftopinionpet-storagepetsspecial-dealsspecialswings-over-atreiaMon, 14 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a Wizard101 rare mount package from Massively!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/win-a-wizard101-rare-mount-package-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/win-a-wizard101-rare-mount-package-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/win-a-wizard101-rare-mount-package-from-massively/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wizard101 Bloodraven
If you haven't had a chance to make your purchase in Wizard101's Mount-a-Palooza sale going on right now, fear not! We're giving you a chance to get the five rarest mounts in the game in one set, all for free!

KingsIsle Entertainment was kind enough to send us 25 codes for these rare mount sets, which we'll be giving away through our Twitter page, our Facebook page, and a random drawing.

Each rare mount set contains: Swift Gryphon, Bone Dragon, Great Hornocerous (2 person), Nightmare, and Blood Raven (2-person). For a chance at your own set, simply send an email to shawn@massively.com with the subject line "Gimme My Wizard101 Mount Code!" before Sunday, April 15th, at 8 p.m. EDT. On Monday, we'll present 15 random winners their very own code. Be sure to copy and paste those exact words into the subject line of your email, or it won't get filtered properly. The remaining 10 codes will be randomly released on our Twitter and/or Facebook pages throughout this entire weekend, so keep your eyes open!

Also be sure to check past the cut below for images of three of the mounts in the package.

Continue reading Win a Wizard101 rare mount package from Massively!

MassivelyWin a Wizard101 rare mount package from Massively! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestsf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playgiveawaygiveawayskid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmountsrare-mountswizard101Fri, 13 Apr 2012 16:00:00 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[Wings Over Atreia: An interview sheds light on the new BlackCloud]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/wings-over-atreia-an-interview-sheds-light-on-the-new-blackclou/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/wings-over-atreia-an-interview-sheds-light-on-the-new-blackclou/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/wings-over-atreia-an-interview-sheds-light-on-the-new-blackclou/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aion
Information is like gold 'round these parts, and I've been out prospecting, sifting, and searching in the hopes of at least finding a few flakes if not hitting pay dirt. But even with Aion Ascension just around the corner, finding many nuggets of information on the new BlackCloud Marketplace hasn't panned out. Until now. Eureka!

Welcome to the Massively Gold Rush. OK, so maybe a "rush" is a bit of an overstatement, but I have discovered a few golden nuggets about Aion's renovated cash shop and impending 3.0 expansion. I had the chance to catch up with Producer Adam Christensen and learn a bit more about what Daevas will find in the BlackCloud Marketplace as well as get some details about various new upcoming features like housing, mounts, and the level 60 Daevanion armor.

And with the BlackCloud Marketplace finally opening its doors, Daevas can check out the selection for themselves and pre-purchase items to be delivered at Ascension's Launch.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: An interview sheds light on the new BlackCloud

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: An interview sheds light on the new BlackCloud originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.03.0-patchAdam-ChristensenaionAion-AscensionBlackCloud-Marketplacecash-shopConstructioncraftingcrafting-Constructioncrafting-professionDaevanion-armorexlusive-interviewf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfurniturehousinginterviewinterviewsmountsncsoftnew-crafting-professionopinionstorage-spacewings-over-atreiaThu, 05 Apr 2012 09:00:00 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[GDC 2012: Frogster shows off Eligium: The Chosen One]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-frogster-shows-off-eligium-the-chosen-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-frogster-shows-off-eligium-the-chosen-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-frogster-shows-off-eligium-the-chosen-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Eligium concept art
At GDC, there is much to see and do. And one of the best things to do (besides try to win a really cool fuzzy hat) is to actually experience a game through a demonstration or even some hands-on play. I had the opportunity to do just that with one of Frogster's upcoming games. No, not that one; the other one. Ellen-Jane Austin, Country Manager UK, and Marco Neubert, Director Product PR, took me on a brief tour of Eligium: The Chosen One.

Although this game from Shanda Games Ltd. is pretty similar to other games in many respects, there are a few features that give it a unique flair, especially the virtue system, mounts, and my personal favorite, an ability to shape-change into a two-headed dragon!

Continue reading GDC 2012: Frogster shows off Eligium: The Chosen One

MassivelyGDC 2012: Frogster shows off Eligium: The Chosen One originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventioneligiumeligium-the-chosen-oneEllen-Jane-Austinfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012Marco-NeubertmountspetsShanda-GamesShanda-Games-LtdshapeshiftshapeshiftingSun, 11 Mar 2012 19:00:00 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[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[Noria and gPotato release new Sevencore trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/noria-and-gpotato-release-new-sevencore-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/noria-and-gpotato-release-new-sevencore-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/noria-and-gpotato-release-new-sevencore-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Sevencore - dragon mount
Last summer we showed you a couple of trailers for a new Korean free-to-play import called Sevencore. The title is an interesting mixture of fantasy and sci-fi, and it is also the product of an alliance between development firm Noria and publishing partner gPotato. The game's Korean open beta is close at hand, and the two companies have released a new cinematic trailer to drum up some interest.

Click past the cut for your daily dose of fantasy violence, brooding male voiceovers, and orchestral action-movie music. There are also a few glimpses of Sevencore's unique mounts, including a fire-breathing dragon and some sort of swoop analog that we'd love to take for a spin.

Continue reading Noria and gPotato release new Sevencore trailer

MassivelyNoria and gPotato release new Sevencore trailer originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadragondragon-mountf2pfantasyfree-to-playgpotatokorean-betakorean-open-betamountsnoriaopen-betasci-fisevencoretrailervideoSat, 04 Feb 2012 20:00:00 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[Final Fantasy XIV teasing players with a rideable goobbue]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/final-fantasy-xiv-teasing-players-with-a-rideable-goobbue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/final-fantasy-xiv-teasing-players-with-a-rideable-goobbue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/final-fantasy-xiv-teasing-players-with-a-rideable-goobbue/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

what is this I can't even
Every so often, there are pieces of information put out that are transparently false, stories so insane you know they simply must be fabricated... like the idea that Final Fantasy XIV would promise the introduction of a new mount and that said mount would be one of the toothy monsters known as a goobbue. It's the sort of thing that could be immediately ignored as being a series of enterprising photoshopped pictures if not for the fact that it's being passed along by the official site.

Yes, apparently, the lumbering beasts that terrorize players in both Final Fantasy XI and Final Fantasy XIV will be added to the stable of mounts alongside chocobos. The preview video itself (embedded just after the break) states that they'll only be available for a limited time before version 2.0; the lore article claims that the very idea seems absurd even in the game world, but there it is. Hopefully players can learn how to obtain the mount soon, with the added caveat that we'll probably have to believe it's a real thing at that point.

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIV teasing players with a rideable goobbue

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV teasing players with a rideable goobbue originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmount-previewmountsnewspreviewsquaresquare-enixupdatesvideovideoswhatWed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What would you pay for a fancy ride?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for-a-fancy-ride/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for-a-fancy-ride/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/the-daily-grind-what-would-you-pay-for-a-fancy-ride/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

My carpet brings all the girls to the yard. Darn right it's better than yours.
World of Warcraft set the bar at $25 for a shiny horse. EverQuest II followed suit. You can imitate Marty McFly or Aladdin in City of Heroes for about $7.50. And for various amounts of cash in Star Trek Online, you can pimp out your spaceship with all sorts of shiny new nacelles -- or you can ride in a ship with some famous modifications. It's certainly cheaper than a sports car in the real world, but it's still part of a trend of real-world cash buying you a new vehicle. (Or carpet.)

So the question should be obvious -- what would you pay for a fancy in-game ride? Are you willing to drop sparklepony money? Would you not pay more than a dollar for something that doesn't have any functional benefit over other in-game options? Or would you drop even more money on something sufficiently shiny, perhaps a horse-car that could be seen from orbit?

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: What would you pay for a fancy ride? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopmicrotransactionsmountsopinionridessparkleponytdgthe-daily-grindvanity-itemsvanity-mountsvanity-ridesvehiclesvisualvisual-upgradesSun, 08 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reid on Reddit: SWTOR fans ask him anything and everything]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/reid-on-reddit-swtor-fans-ask-him-anything-and-everything/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/reid-on-reddit-swtor-fans-ask-him-anything-and-everything/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/reid-on-reddit-swtor-fans-ask-him-anything-and-everything/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR
"Ask me anything." That's a dangerous command for anyone to issue, nevermind the community manager of the hottest new MMO on the block. Yet that's just what Stephen Reid said today to the Star Wars: The Old Republic community on Reddit, and the length of questions and answers would make for a mini-novel if packaged as such.

While Reid certainly hedges on issues that BioWare is not quite ready to address, he doesn't shy away from direct answers when applicable. The compiled Reddit thread lists dozens and dozens of Q&As, including the much-asked-for guild housing ("on the list for future development"), the ability delay issue ("we'll talk about it publicly soon"), and an upgraded Galactic Trade Network ("improvements will come to the GTN in time, definitely").

In response to the request for non-mechanical (read: animal) mounts, Reid said, "Maybe -- it's a technical challenge, I've been told." He's most excited about the upcoming legacy system reveals, but he's not allowed to talk on it just yet.

Amidst the probing questions of the newly launched title is a personal query about what it's like for him to be at the helm of SWTOR community management. "What's it like?" Reid responded. "Bewildering and overwhelming and exciting and demanding, all at once, all day long (and often into the night). I had some idea what I was getting into, but it was bigger than expected. I'll stay as long as I'm wanted."

MassivelyReid on Reddit: SWTOR fans ask him anything and everything originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amaask-me-anythingauction-housebiowarecommunity-managementcommunity-q-and-aeaea-biowaregalactic-trade-networkgtnguild-housinghousinglegacy-systemmountspetsq-and-aquestions-and-answersredditstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorWed, 28 Dec 2011 21:00:00 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[The Daily Grind: What's the coolest ride you've had in an MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/the-daily-grind-whats-the-coolest-ride-youve-had-in-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/the-daily-grind-whats-the-coolest-ride-youve-had-in-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/the-daily-grind-whats-the-coolest-ride-youve-had-in-an-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Sure, it looks like a cool trip, but the insurance premiums are murder.
One of the universal aspects of MMOs is the fact that you have to cover some distance. And not just a few feet in any given direction -- no matter how instanced, you'll be getting from one end of the map to the other on a regular basis. In some games, such as Guild Wars, this is accomplished with easy teleportation, but most games give you some other way of getting from place to place. Sometimes it's a mount, and sometimes you ride a javelin from one point on the map to the next for a specific quest.

Maybe you think the coolest ride you've had has been a mount, perhaps a motorcycle or a ravenous beast. Maybe it's been a form of static transport, like an airship or a boat. Or maybe you thought the coolest ride ever was something unique to a given quest, like riding a bomb down to a new quest area. So what's your choice for the coolest ride to be had in an MMO?

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: What's the coolest ride you've had in an MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturemobilitymountsopinionridestdgthe-daily-grindtransporttransportationvisualsSun, 04 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion 3.0 trailer details housing, new dungeons, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/aion-3-0-trailer-details-housing-new-dungeons-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/aion-3-0-trailer-details-housing-new-dungeons-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/aion-3-0-trailer-details-housing-new-dungeons-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Aion - 3.0 mount
Aion fans rejoice! The near-mythical 3.0 update is coming to Korea inside of a week (which means it's a few months removed from the American servers, of course). If the new Korean trailer is any indication, though, it should be well worth the wait.

The four-minute clip takes us inside the Promised Land patch's player housing mechanics, not to mention six new instanced areas and a variety of open world locales. You can also glimpse the patch's assorted air and ground mounts. We reported on some early looks at the 3.0 content last month, but the new trailer is even more extensive. Head past the cut to view it in full, and then mosey over to MMO Culture for a few new screenshots.

Continue reading Aion 3.0 trailer details housing, new dungeons, and more

MassivelyAion 3.0 trailer details housing, new dungeons, and more originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.0aionaion-3.0aion-promised-landatreiaexpansionsfantasyhousingmountsncsoftnew-dungeonspatchesplayer-housingpromised-landtrailervehiclesvideoSat, 05 Nov 2011 17:00:00 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[New ArcheAge clip shows off CBT4 transportation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/new-archeage-clip-shows-off-cbt4-transportation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/new-archeage-clip-shows-off-cbt4-transportation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/new-archeage-clip-shows-off-cbt4-transportation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - carriage mount
Starving ArcheAge fans, take heart. With the onset of the game's fourth Korean closed beta test, we'll likely be seeing more news and views from the upcoming fantasy sandpark over the next few weeks.

Today's reveal is a two-minute video focusing on the game's mounts, and while there are a couple of clips that we've seen before (notably portions of the hang-gliding footage and the airship shots), there is a whole bunch of new stuff as well. There are the requisite horses, of course, but also some nifty steampunk automated carriage thingamabobs. The video also features some mouth-watering shots of player ships complete with unfurling sails, what appears to be functional rigging, and players climbing masts, turning the ship's wheel, and more. See for yourself after the cut.

Continue reading New ArcheAge clip shows off CBT4 transportation

MassivelyNew ArcheAge clip shows off CBT4 transportation originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airshiparcheagecarriagescbt4closed-betafantasyhang-gliderhang-glidingkorean-closed-betamountssandboxsandparkvideoxlxl-gamesThu, 27 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Prius Online releases Stronghold of the North expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/prius-online-releases-stronghold-of-the-north-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/prius-online-releases-stronghold-of-the-north-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/prius-online-releases-stronghold-of-the-north-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Prius Online - character create screen
A couple of weeks ago we told you about Prius Online's new Stronghold of the North expansion. The content was slated to release sometime in October, and today we're finally able to report that it is in fact live and available for you to download.

Stronghold adds 500 quests, three new dungeons, two exotic mounts, and a new item upgrade system that "allows players to design their own gear with powerful stats and a unique appearance that suits their character," according to the latest gPotato press release.

That's not all, either, as the expansion brings new looted gear and a new city-based venue for guild siege warfare. Finally, gPotato is offering up a double XP weekend to celebrate all the new content. From October 28th through October 30th, players can look forward to XP bonuses, double drop rates, and welcome back bundles for returning players that include combat enhancers and premium item upgrades. Check out some of the new gear (and the two mounts) in our gallery below.

[Source: gPotato press release]

Gallery: Prius Online

MassivelyPrius Online releases Stronghold of the North expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-xpdouble-xp-weekenddungeonsexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgpotatoitem-upgrade-systemmountsnew-questspress-releasepriusprius-onlinestronghold-of-the-northWed, 26 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise releases vehicle patch, reactivates old accounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/earthrise-releases-vehicle-patch-reactivates-old-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/earthrise-releases-vehicle-patch-reactivates-old-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/earthrise-releases-vehicle-patch-reactivates-old-accounts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Masthead Studios has just informed us of the latest patch for Earthrise. There's good news for former players too, as the company is re-upping all inactive accounts for a free 14-day trial period.

The patch itself includes new vehicles that can be obtained via quest lines, player crafters, or in-game vendors. The mounts are called hoovers, and when coupled with Earthrise's physics model, they allow players to perform drifts, jumps, and various stunts. Speed is a major factor as well, and Masthead says that explorers will appreciate the new vehicles when checking out the various nooks and crannies across the world of Enterra.

Finally, the patch includes "large numbers of strong monsters" designed to provide more of a challenge for PvE players as well as provide greater loot rewards. You can learn more about Earthrise at the game's official website. Also, don't forget to check out the new vehicle concept art in our gallery.

Gallery: Earthrise



[Source: Masthead press release]

MassivelyEarthrise releases vehicle patch, reactivates old accounts originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthriseenterragalleryhoovermastheadmasthead-studiosmountspatchespress-releasepvesandboxsci-fiscreenshotsvehiclesFri, 21 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion's 3.0 update features extensive housing mechanics, mounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/aions-3-0-update-features-extensive-housing-mechanics-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/aions-3-0-update-features-extensive-housing-mechanics-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/aions-3-0-update-features-extensive-housing-mechanics-mounts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aion - housing
Remember that really slick Aion "vision" trailer that NCsoft released in November of 2009? If you're a fan of the Daeva-centric fantasy MMO you've probably seen the nine-minute clip floating around the intarwebs (and marveled at its graphical upgrades, mounts, player housing, and various bells and whistles).

While NCsoft has already implemented some of the visual tweaks in a previous patch, the housing and mounts have remained conspicuously absent. Now, though, new info leaking out of Korea confirms that the features (and the rest of Aion 3.0) are indeed on the way. Housing will be available at level 21 and will boast many different styles, customizable interiors and exteriors (including color and elevation), functional wardrobes, and a variety of furniture items that will be produced by crafters.

Mounts will come in both flying and ground-based flavors, and will need to be hatched from eggs like most of Aion's other pets. Finally, it's worth noting that NCsoft has no official release date for 3.0, and the North American servers usually lag several months behind their Korean counterparts in terms of content updates.

MassivelyAion's 3.0 update features extensive housing mechanics, mounts originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.03.0-patchaionaion-3.0and-there-was-much-rejoicingatreiacraftingfantasyflying-mountsfurniturehousingmountsncsoftplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentplayer-housingzomg-housingTue, 18 Oct 2011 11:00:00 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[Age of Conan long-term subs available, Funcom gifting weekly consumable packs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/age-of-conan-long-term-subs-available-funcom-gifting-weekly-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/age-of-conan-long-term-subs-available-funcom-gifting-weekly-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/age-of-conan-long-term-subs-available-funcom-gifting-weekly-con/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Age of Conan - Bountiful Harvest pack
We've got more Age of Conan-related subscription news for you this morning. Yesterday we mentioned the lifetime sub sweepstakes currently ongoing at AoC's Facebook page. Today we came across some new time-limited sub offers on the game's forums as well as a blurb about free weekly login items.

The sub offers come in three-, six-, and 12-month flavors, and each also features a bundle of in-game goods designed to make your Hyborian life a little easier. All three packs give you assorted potions and the basic riding skill, while the six- and 12-month varieties give you mounts to go with it.

The weekly login items feature packs of consumables and are available via the special offers tab of the in-game store. This week's pack is labeled A Bountiful Harvest, while subsequent weeks will feature A Hearty Harvest, A Fine Harvest, and The Harvest Reward packs.

MassivelyAge of Conan long-term subs available, Funcom gifting weekly consumable packs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocaoc-unchainedconanf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhyboriamountspetspotion-packspotionssubscription-packagessubscriptionstime-limited-subscription-offersunchainedweekly-login-itemsWed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Inside Isengard]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/the-road-to-mordor-inside-isengard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/the-road-to-mordor-inside-isengard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/the-road-to-mordor-inside-isengard/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online
It's one thing to sit down during a beta and poke around on your own, making educated guesses about why what went where and who what is wherefore. It's another thing entirely to pick up the phone and go, "Hey Turbine? Drop everything -- no, not your pants! -- and take me on a tour of Rise of Isengard! Um, magic word? Oh! Pretty please? With a cherry on top?"

The first approach is good, but I wanted to get a more in-depth look into the making of Lord of the Rings Online's third expansion from the people who actually made it. How does one approach fleshing out an area that received relatively little source support from the books? What is Turbine trying to do differently in its fourth year of LotRO development? And why should we be afraid of an old guy in a bathrobe who won't come out of his tower?

See? These are good questions to ask, which is why I sat down with Bob Hess, Aaron Campbell and Adam Mersky, who graciously took me on a whirlwind tour of Rise of Isengard. I wanted to cut through the PR-speak and learn about the real stories of the making of the expansion and what we'll be encountering within, and the devs were happy to oblige.

Hit the jump as we travel further down The Road to Mordor and take the Hobbits to Isengard!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Inside Isengard

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Inside Isengard originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaron-campbelladam-merskybetabob-hessdunlandexpansionfeaturedhorsesisengardlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromountsndaopen-betaorthancrise-of-isengardrohanrohirrimsarumanturbineturbine-entertainmentwulfs-cleftFri, 09 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: Lions and tigers and bears, oh... mounts!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/lost-pages-of-taborea-lions-and-tigers-and-bears-oh-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/lost-pages-of-taborea-lions-and-tigers-and-bears-oh-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/05/lost-pages-of-taborea-lions-and-tigers-and-bears-oh-mounts/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Runes of Magic screenshot
Summer is starting to wane, and the cold winds will soon be blustering through the city streets. Kids with chattering teeth and blue fingers will be sitting in front of stoves or fireplaces, rolling their eyes as grandpa proclaims that he had to walk to and from school barefoot through snow uphill both ways. While our grandfathers fantasize about the pride of hardships, we can slip off to the computer and live in our fantasy worlds that provide mounts to make traveling a bit more fun.

Runes of Magic has a wide variety of mounts that can run, hover and float over water. Some of these mounts are more rare than others, like those seen only on holidays or during special fundraisers, while some are two-seaters. From the sleek and vicious to the large and powerful to the just plain wacky, RoM has a mount for all occasions. In this week's Lost Pages of Taborea, I go over the mounts that are available, their rarity, their speed, and some ways to give your preferred mount a boost.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Lions and tigers and bears, oh... mounts!

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Lions and tigers and bears, oh... mounts! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredfloat-on-waterfloatingfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegroundhoverhoveringjeremy-strattonlost-pages-of-taboreamountsover-waterromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttransportationtraveltravelingwaterborneMon, 05 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Frogster announces new Eligium MMO, reveals cinematic trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/frogster-announces-new-eligium-mmo-reveals-cinematic-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/frogster-announces-new-eligium-mmo-reveals-cinematic-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/frogster-announces-new-eligium-mmo-reveals-cinematic-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Eligium - castle screenshot
Most modern MMORPGs are all about making thousands of players feel like mighty heroes, but Frogster's newest endeavor is taking that concept to another level if the game's title is anything to go by. A new cinematic trailer for Eligium - The Chosen One was just announced, and the game itself will be shown off later this week at Gamescom 2011. The free-to-play fantasy title "challenges players to see if they have what it takes to be the chosen one and free the world from the invading demonic hordes," according to a Frogster press release.

Eligium was actually developed by a Chinese firm called Shanda Games Ltd. (Frogster is serving as the publisher), and the title will be launching in the first quarter of 2012 to the English, German, French, and Polish markets.

In terms of gameplay, Eligium features five playable race/class combinations (including panda fighters), extensive crafting and item upgrade options, and group instances as well as world boss battles. There's also a bit of PvP on offer and guild systems designed to bring factional warfare to the forefront. Frogster's press material also mentions player housing and a pet/mount-hatching system. You can glimpse the first official Eligium trailer after the break.

Continue reading Frogster announces new Eligium MMO, reveals cinematic trailer

MassivelyFrogster announces new Eligium MMO, reveals cinematic trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eligiumeligium-the-chosen-onef2pfaction-warsfantasyfree-to-playfrogstergame-mechanicsgamescom-2011mount-hatchingmountspetsplayer-housingpvepvpreal-world-eventsshandashanda-gamesshanda-games-limitedthe-chosen-onetrailervideoTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge video shows off unusual transportation options]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/archeage-video-shows-off-unusual-transportation-options/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/archeage-video-shows-off-unusual-transportation-options/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/archeage-video-shows-off-unusual-transportation-options/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - transportation
We've stumbled across another ArcheAge video, and unlike the last such that focused heavily on PvP, this time around we get a good look at some of the sandpark title's unique transportation alternatives.

There are a gaggle of mounts on display, and with apologies to our Korean friends who will no doubt correct us in due time, we're just going to call them like we see them. Aside from your traditional horse and rider option there's also what appears to be some sort of spotted lion as well as a curious cross between a tauntaun and a bunny rabbit.

We also get a glimpse of some city-based transport systems including a steampunk-esque horse and floating carriage (with some sort of mechanical contraption filling in for the horse), as well as the hang-gliding option we saw previously in the ChinaJoy trailer. Finally, there's more footage of the famous airship that's been featured in several previous ArcheAge clips. Head past the cut to see the sights.

Continue reading ArcheAge video shows off unusual transportation options

MassivelyArcheAge video shows off unusual transportation options originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagebunny-rabbit-mountcarriagefantasyhorsesmountsrabbit-mountsandboxsandparksteampunktauntauntransportationvideoxlxl-gamesFri, 12 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragonica expansion bringing new race, class, and mountable pets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/dragonica-expansion-bringing-new-race-class-and-mountable-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/dragonica-expansion-bringing-new-race-class-and-mountable-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/dragonica-expansion-bringing-new-race-class-and-mountable-pets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

There's a new Dragonica expansion in the works, and gPotato and Gala Networks Europe have issued a new press release outlining a few details from the upcoming New Origin patch. The expansion launches this September, and looks to be the largest content update in Dragonica's history.

What's the big deal?

For starters, the patch will bring about a new playable race and mountable pets. Strangely, today's press release doesn't mention the new race by name, and instead says that it will "arrive with an entirely new player class" that uses summoning magic in some form, and "differ[s] significantly from [the] classes currently available." As for the new mount system, gPotato says that players may use their existing pets and may also deploy the mounts during battle. The expansion will include new pets as well, and we'll bring you more on all the New Origin content in the near future.

MassivelyDragonica expansion bringing new race, class, and mountable pets originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragonicaexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalagala-networksgala-networks-europegpotatomagicmountable-petsmountsnew-classesnew-originnew-origin-expansionnew-racepetspress-releasesummonersummoning-magicMon, 08 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a free EverQuest II mount from Massively!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/win-a-free-everquest-ii-mount-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/win-a-free-everquest-ii-mount-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/win-a-free-everquest-ii-mount-from-massively/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you're an EverQuest II player, you've most likely noticed some cool new mounts running around this summer. If you thought they looked pretty cool and would love one for your own, you're in luck! Sony Online Entertainment was kind enough to share codes for Terrorbird and Storm Wind Komodo mounts with us, and we're passing them along to you!

All you have to do to enter and win one is leave a comment here letting us know which one you'd like. We'll continue taking comments until 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, August 7th. Monday morning we'll choose winners and share codes. Make sure you read our contest rules, leave your comment here, and best of luck!

OFFICIAL RULES

MassivelyWin a free EverQuest II mount from Massively! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestseqiieverquest-iigiveawaygiveawaysmountssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentFri, 05 Aug 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Nuna bites]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/hyperspace-beacon-nuna-bites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/hyperspace-beacon-nuna-bites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/hyperspace-beacon-nuna-bites/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you happened to be in San Diego this weekend then you may have noticed a large gathering of geekery known as Comic-Con. Usually, this mecca of nerdom focuses on comic book related publications. Although Star Wars: The Old Republic isn't exactly comic book gold, Dark Horse comics rose through the ranks of pulp royalty because of its vast library of Star Wars-related publications. It only seems right that TOR presents itself to this audience.

Besides the panel in Comic-Con proper, BioWare developers hosted three separate question and answer sessions focusing on Star Wars: The Old Republic. As with most Q&As, the majority of questions asked have been answered already in the past. If you were hanging out in Darth Hater's Ventrilo server like I was during the live broadcasts, then you heard a lot of "We knew that already." That being said, there were some pieces of juicy meat tossed to the crowd that we had not heard before. I will call them nuna bites, and you can find your slice after the break.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Nuna bites

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Nuna bites originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ACadvanced-classesBioWarecompanionsdallas-dickinsonEAElectronic-Artsendgamefeaturedflashpointgeorg-zoellerHolly-FieldIlumjames-ohlenLucasArtsmountspet-classPvEPvPrich-vogelsan-diegosan-diego-comic-consan-diego-comic-con-2011sdccsdcc-2011Star-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicStephen-Reidswtorthe-old-republictorvehicleTue, 26 Jul 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare talks Star Wars: The Old Republic vehicles and launches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/bioware-talks-star-wars-the-old-republic-vehicles-and-launches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/bioware-talks-star-wars-the-old-republic-vehicles-and-launches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/bioware-talks-star-wars-the-old-republic-vehicles-and-launches/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Vehicles are cool. Not that having a trusty steed isn't cool in any game, but Star Wars: The Old Republic is a game emulating films in which every single vehicle was a character unto itself. In the most recent panel for the game at this year's San Diego Comic-Con, it's been made clear that the designers aren't limiting vehicles to simply spaceships for players and for ambient encounters. Landspeeders and speeder bikes will be available for players, with several styles shown off to the attendees.

As always, iconic imagery is at the top of the priority list for development, up to and including the opening text crawl following character creation. A firm release date has still not been announced, but the team has once again reiterated that the game will be out for this year's holiday season. Frustratingly vague? Perhaps, but at least there's plenty of tasty information to chew on despite the insistent lack of clarity elsewhere.

MassivelyBioWare talks Star Wars: The Old Republic vehicles and launches originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementsbiowarebioware-austinconventionseaelectronic-artslaunch-windowsmountspanelsreal-world-eventsreleasesan-diego-comic-con-2011sdcc-2011star-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorvehiclesFri, 22 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge video shows six minutes of scenery]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/archeage-video-shows-six-minutes-of-scenery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/archeage-video-shows-six-minutes-of-scenery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/archeage-video-shows-six-minutes-of-scenery/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

ArcheAge fans have been aching for news updates since the close of the title's latest Korean beta last May. XL Games is presumably hard at work processing feedback and adding functionality, as we haven't heard a peep from Jake Song's dev team in quite some time.

Fortunately, our friends at AAPortal are parceling out various bits of video footage captured during CBT3. Last week we got a look at an ArcheAge cityscape by way of a parkour clip, and today we're treated to a six-minute montage of the game's stunning scenery. The footage takes us on a journey across tranquil meadows, arid deserts, and rocky shorelines, and even along for the ride as a player chases an airship (and later boards it, leading to some spectacular high-altitude nighttime vistas).

Head past the cut to check it out, and mosey on over to AAportal for the source post.

Continue reading ArcheAge video shows six minutes of scenery

MassivelyArcheAge video shows six minutes of scenery originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airshiparche-agearcheagebetacbt3closed-beta-3desertsfantasyforestsjake-songkorean-betamountssandboxscenerytrailervideoxlxl-gamesWed, 20 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scarlet Legacy mounts revealed in new screens and video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/scarlet-legacy-mounts-revealed-in-new-screens-and-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/scarlet-legacy-mounts-revealed-in-new-screens-and-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/scarlet-legacy-mounts-revealed-in-new-screens-and-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

GamesCampus has released some new screenshots and video of its Scarlet Legacy title and frankly my dear, we don't give a damn. Er, wait... it's not that Scarlett, so we do give a damn. The reveal concerns the game's mounts, and since closed beta testing is rapidly approaching (August 4th to be exact), players would do well to get their in-game transportation arrangements in order.

Scarlet Legacy is an action-oriented martial arts fantasy wherein players take on thousands of quests in an effort to save Princess Scarlet. A new GamesCampus press release highlights an "auto-pilot" fighting system that allows players to "jump straight into the fray alongside their friends" and dispenses with the need "to spend hours deciphering complex control combinations."

The game also does away with targeting according to GamesCampus, and whether you're fighting hordes of enemies or controlling one of Scarlet Legacy's numerous beast and vehicle mounts, you'll be having a grand old time. Hit up the game's website to learn more, and cozy up to the trailer after the cut.

Gallery: Scarlet Legacy

Continue reading Scarlet Legacy mounts revealed in new screens and video

MassivelyScarlet Legacy mounts revealed in new screens and video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto-pilotcasual-friendly-combatf2pfantasyfree-to-playgallerygamescampusmountsno-targetingpress-releasescarlet-legacyscreenshotstrailervideoFri, 08 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Luvinia closed beta begins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/luvinia-closed-beta-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/luvinia-closed-beta-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/luvinia-closed-beta-begins/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Luvinia Online's closed beta is officially open, and Outspark has confirmed via press release that testers will be able to experience game content up to level 69. Three class archetypes (as well as six subclasses) are open for testing, and a number of in-game events are in the works.

Players who reach level 40 will receive a panda rabbit mount after the conclusion of the beta period, and everyone can join in the fun to be had in the Luvster Race, weekly Bingo Society loot competitions, and an end-of-beta Graduation Celebration.

The events tie in with the larger Festival of Sparks event series taking place across multiple Outspark titles, and participating players can earn summer sparks which are used to purchase in-game rewards. You can learn more about the Festival at the Outspark website, and don't forget to hop over and check out the Luvinia information while you're at it.

MassivelyLuvinia closed beta begins originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-eventsclosed-betaf2pfantasyfestival-of-sparksfree-to-playin-game-eventsluvinialuvinia-onlinemountsoutsparkprizesFri, 08 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Recruit-a-Friend program comes to EverQuest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment's Recruit-a-Friend program (otherwise known as the powerlevel-your-alts-with-multiple-accounts program) has been a hit in EverQuest II for quite some time now. It's only natural that the initiative make its way to the original incarnation of Norrath, and SOE's Piestro has posted a notice on the official EverQuest boards marking just such an occasion.

Recruits and recruiters will enjoy a wealth of benefits including in-game mounts, bonus Station Cash, Legends of Norrath booster packs, a unique title, and of course, loads of bonus XP. Check out all the details on the o-boards, then hit up the official RaF page to get started.

MassivelyRecruit-a-Friend program comes to EverQuest originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpeqeverquestfantasyin-game-itemsmmo-industrymountsnorrathpiestropromotionsrafrecruit-a-friendsoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttitlesxpxp-bonusSat, 02 Jul 2011 14:00:00 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[The Game Archaeologist and the What Ifs: True Fantasy Live Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-what-ifs-true-fantasy-live-onlin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-what-ifs-true-fantasy-live-onlin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-what-ifs-true-fantasy-live-onlin/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As an extremely amateur historian -- and an extremely attractive archaeologist -- I've always been fascinated with the "what ifs" of gaming's timeline. What if Blizzard had pulled the plug on World of Warcraft during development as it did for Warcraft Adventures? What if Hellgate: London had a lot more time and resources before it launched? What if North America had embraced the free-to-play model much earlier instead of the subscription model? What if Shawn came to his senses before he hired me?

Life would've been a lot better. Or worse. That's the problem with counterfactual history: We can make educated guesses, but we'll never really know. While it's sad to see MMOs shut down due to underperformance, it's especially maddening to contemplate MMOs canceled before they even made it to the starting gate. In a new periodic series here at The Game Archaeologist, I'm going to look at a few of the "what ifs" of prematurely terminated MMORPGs.

And to kick us off, I'm tackling probably one of the most frustrating, painful subjects that still linger amongst potential fans. I'm talking, of course, of True Fantasy Live Online, the game that could've shown the true potential of console MMOs. Or, y'know, not.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the What Ifs: True Fantasy Live Online

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the What Ifs: True Fantasy Live Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Akihiro-Hinoblizzardcel-shadedcounterfactual-historydreamcastdust-514eqeverquestevolutionfablefeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-viifinal-fantasy-xigamespothellgate-londonkiller-appkiller-applicationlevel-5microsoftmountsnesplayer-evolutionplayer-housingplaystationprofessor-laytonsegasuper-mario-brostflothe-game-archaeologisttokyo-game-showtrue-fantasy-live-onlineundead-labsvoice-chatvoice-communicationwarcraft-adventureswhat-ifwhat-ifsworld-of-warcraftwowxboxxbox-360xbox-liveTue, 14 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Leapers, gliders, and Beastlords, oh my!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/the-tattered-notebook-leapers-gliders-and-beastlords-oh-my/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/the-tattered-notebook-leapers-gliders-and-beastlords-oh-my/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/the-tattered-notebook-leapers-gliders-and-beastlords-oh-my/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

E3 has come and gone, but EverQuest II fans are left with more questions than answers. Children of War has just launched, and already, players are wondering what's coming down the road. We do know about some of the more immediate changes, such as the rebuilding of the Dragon Ring and Spires live event, new mounts, and the Freeport Revamp. But there were some hints at much bigger changes down the road -- and few details on how exactly it would change the game.

In this week's Tattered Notebook, we'll break out the crystal ball and speculate on whether EQII is growing closer to EQ2X and whether we might in fact see the arrival of Beastlords in game.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Leapers, gliders, and Beastlords, oh my!

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Leapers, gliders, and Beastlords, oh my! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packbeastlordclassesdave-georgesoneq2eq2xEQIIeverquest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-ii-extendedexpansionsfandomfeaturedflightflying-labfree-to-playleapingmountssmokejumpertattered-notebookMon, 13 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST