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[Blade & Soul Korea getting major update next week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/19/blade-and-soul-korea-getting-major-update-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/19/blade-and-soul-korea-getting-major-update-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/19/blade-and-soul-korea-getting-major-update-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

blade and soul korea getting major update low priority because low info, can skip
Blade & Soul's biggest update yet is coming on June 26th according to Steparu.com. The site reports that new skill revisions, an upgrading system, new dungeons, an increased level cap, new story chapters, new instanced dungeons, and new PvP areas are on the way.

Whew!

Yes, that's a lot of new, and Steparu has also posted a handful of gorgeous new Blade & Soul posters for your viewing enjoyment. Have a look via the link below.

MassivelyBlade & Soul Korea getting major update next week originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blade-and-soulblade-and-soul-dungeonsblade-and-soul-updatefantasymartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreaWed, 19 Jun 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Raiding in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/flameseeker-chronicles-raiding-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/flameseeker-chronicles-raiding-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/flameseeker-chronicles-raiding-in-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Flameseeker Chronicles Raiding in Guild Wars 2
Guild Wars 2 has been criticized in the past for not having having much PvE content for guilds and large groups of players. Several months ago, guild missions were added and helped fill that gap, but apparently we have more to look forward to.

ArenaNet's Chris Whiteside was chatting with players in the game and was asked whether or not we'd ever see raiding in Guild Wars 2. His reply was, "Our answer to raiding may very well be in the works! It is something I am very excited about and will be unique to GW2."

What could this mean for Guild Wars 2 and its players? What kind of unique spin could ArenaNet put on raiding? Let's dive into those questions after the break in a video edition of the Flameseeker Chronicles!

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Raiding in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Raiding in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playchris whitesidechris-whitesidecontentfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsGuild-Wars-2gwgw1gw2ncsoftopinionraidingraidstrailertrailersvideovideosTue, 18 Jun 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Tabula Rasa's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/jukebox-heroes-tabula-rasas-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/jukebox-heroes-tabula-rasas-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/18/jukebox-heroes-tabula-rasas-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Tabula Rasa's soundtrack
It's a well-known fact that the ghost of Tabula Rasa haunts the Massively offices. I think it's because Shawn keeps feeding it ectopellets because he's not quite ready to let his beloved MMO go. The ghost is driving the rest of us crazy because it's constantly switching the labels on our lunchboxes and whistling the Tabula Rasa theme through the air ducts while we're trying to get honest work done.

So while the MMO no longer exists outside of a few forlorn collector's editions picking up dust on store shelves, the music persists. Tabula Rasa boasted a strong score thanks to the work of Tracy W. Bush. Bush is a name you should know when it comes to MMO soundtracks: He had a huge hand in the World of Warcraft score and contributed to several NCsoft titles (which are all dead, but that's probably not his fault). [Edit: Several readers wrote in to let me know that Curse Mackey, Stacie Cline, Chris Vrenna, and Clint Walsh also contributed to the score. Thanks!]

I find that sci-fi MMOs, particularly shooter-based ones, tend to elicit heavier tracks and more synth work than orchestral, and they are sometimes relentlessly grim. All of the above certainly can be applied to Tabula Rasa, up to and including its final surprising track.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Tabula Rasa's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Tabula Rasa's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue-turns-to-greycomposercomposersfeaturedgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftopinionshutdownsoundtracksoundtrackssunsettabula-rasatracy-w-bushworld-of-warcraftTue, 18 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: It's all right if people don't like WildStar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/the-nexus-telegraph-its-all-right-if-people-dont-like-wildsta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/the-nexus-telegraph-its-all-right-if-people-dont-like-wildsta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/the-nexus-telegraph-its-all-right-if-people-dont-like-wildsta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

My girl wants to party all the time. I favor a more nuanced partying portfolio.
I like WildStar a lot. You knew from an early time that I liked the game's aesthetic and sense of humor, and as time went on it became clear that I also liked the mechanics and the approaches it has toward an endgame. When I finally got my first hands-on playtime with the game, I liked that, too. What I'm getting at here is that WildStar is currently fighting with Final Fantasy XIV for the title of my absolute favorite MMO, and they both coexist in a space of I want to play you both all the time.

But some people aren't in that boat. Some people aren't that wild about the game, even some people whom I work alongside. And that is totally fine.

Last week's events made me decide to do one of my periodic column-topic-switches to discuss the fact that there is going to be bad press about WildStar out there, sometimes even bad press that complains about things that you don't think are relevant. And the best thing you can do is be cool.

Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: It's all right if people don't like WildStar

MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: It's all right if people don't like WildStar originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Jun 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>affectioncarbinecarbine-studioscolumncommunitycriticismculturedislikefeaturedinteractionlikencsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionrantresponsesandparksci-fantasysci-fithe-nexus-telegraphwildstarMon, 17 Jun 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Caveman edition, June 17 - 23, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/the-stream-team-caveman-edition-june-17-23-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/the-stream-team-caveman-edition-june-17-23-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/17/the-stream-team-caveman-edition-june-17-23-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Caveman edition, June 17 23, 2013
With all the talk about bashing stuff lately, I can't help but envision a certain prehistoric child going around whacking everything with a club, "Bam! Bam! Bam!" Of course, who can blame the little tyke? There are definitely times in game that we've all wanted to swing a cudgel or two, be it a nerf design or a just-quitcher-whining bat.

Destructive tendencies can even be harbored in the gentle hearts of your favorite Stream Team hosts. A number of you can surely attest to that. Need proof? Just watch Massively TV and see for yourself. Warning: You may start to feel sympathy for those poor mobs...

Continue reading The Stream Team: Caveman edition, June 17 - 23, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Caveman edition, June 17 - 23, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionagonaionanetArcane-Sagaarenanetascensionaventurinebiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gamesconquestconsoleconsolesdarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdfDotA-2eaelectronic-artseqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfallen-earthfamilyfantasyfefeaturedfirefallfpsfrfree-realmsfree-to-playfuncomg1gamersfirstguild-wars-2gw2historicalhorrorinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidskids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmetammo-shootermv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftopen-pvppiratepirate101piratesplaystation-3playstation3pollpost-apocpost-apocalypticps3pvpragnarok-online-2red-5red-5-studiosriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedsoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlessswtortanktankstelonthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamThe-Westthird-person-shooterthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptorTridektriontrion-worldstruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvunholy-warsvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwarwarcraftwargaming.netwastelandsworld-of-tanksworld-of-warcraftwotwowMon, 17 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Do you always dress like that?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/16/one-shots-do-you-always-dress-like-that/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/16/one-shots-do-you-always-dress-like-that/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/16/one-shots-do-you-always-dress-like-that/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Do you always dress like that
Here's a tip from your friendly One Shots coordinator: If you send in a screenshot from a game that hardly ever gets featured in this column, there's a better-than-average chance that I'm going to bump it right up to the top of the pack. Case in point: this groovy shot from Lineage II.

Reader Johnny said he played this game back in 2007: "Behind me we can see the endgame, the Baium Raid Boss. Baium resides on the 13th floor of a the Tower of Insolence, a massive, non-instanced hunting ground with 13 fully accessible and monster-packed floors. The weapon I am holding is a Flaming Dragon Skull, an A-grade blunt weapon."

Be prepared for A-grade awesome screenshots and B-grade commentary as you forge on in this week's repository of player-submitted pictures!

Continue reading One Shots: Do you always dress like that?

MassivelyOne Shots: Do you always dress like that? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bring-back-one-shotsddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgallerylineagelineage-2lineage-iilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsscreenshotscreenshotstabula-rasaturbineturbine-entertainmentuser-submissionsSun, 16 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Exclusive peek into Aion 4.0's new zones]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/15/wings-over-atreia-exclusive-peek-into-aion-4-0s-new-zones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/15/wings-over-atreia-exclusive-peek-into-aion-4-0s-new-zones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/15/wings-over-atreia-exclusive-peek-into-aion-4-0s-new-zones/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia Exclusive Peek into Aion 40's new zones
I have a pretty standard M.O. when it comes to my MMOs: Regardless of how various tutorials want to direct me, I wander off and explore the new world I find myself in. I love to poke around, look into corners, and see all there is to see. The same goes for any time a patch or expansion opens up new places to meander through. That's really just how I roll/run/fly/shamble/hop. So it should come as no surprise that I am excitedly awaiting the new lands of Katalam and Danaria when Aion: Dark Betrayal launches on the 26th.

I know that I am not alone in my anticipation, so for all those who are also looking forward to taking off into Aion's new realms, I've got something special for you. No, I can't let you into the game early (but if they ever open the door early for me, I'll prop it for you!), but I do have the next best thing to a first-hand experience: a visual tour.

I've gotten a hold of -- legitimately, I swear -- a video and a number of screenshots showing off all three (yes, I said three) new zones, and I want to share them with you. On top of that, I also have some highlights of the story behind these new areas that Daevas will soon be soaring into. Join me to take a tour and learn the lore of Katalam, Danaria, and Idian Depths.

Gallery: Aion: Dark Betrayal

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Exclusive peek into Aion 4.0's new zones

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Exclusive peek into Aion 4.0's new zones originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 15 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.0aionascensionDanariaDark-Betrayalexclusivef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playIdian-DepthskatalamMassively-exclusivencsoftopiniontrailertrailerstruly-freevideovideo-tourvideoswings-over-atreiaSat, 15 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet teases GW2 Dragon Bash finale event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/arenanet-teases-gw2-dragon-bash-finale-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/arenanet-teases-gw2-dragon-bash-finale-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/arenanet-teases-gw2-dragon-bash-finale-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

ArenaNet teases GW2 Dragon Bash finale event
ArenaNet has not one, not two, but three website updates that should scratch your stuck-at-work-on-a-Friday-but-thinking-about-Guild-Wars-2 itch.

The first is a Dragon Bash video featuring the dev team doing its best Schuster family pinata-destroying imitation. Next we have another video blurb, this time chronicling Dragon Bash shenanigans at Cologne, Germany's RPC 2013 event. The third and final update concerns the Dragon Bash climax coming your way on June 18th. The festival will conclude with a single-player instance called Memories on the Pyre, which you can read about via the source link below. You can see the two videos behind the break.

Continue reading ArenaNet teases GW2 Dragon Bash finale event

MassivelyArenaNet teases GW2 Dragon Bash finale event originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playdragon-bashfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftvideoFri, 14 Jun 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2013: Chatting with Team WildStar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/e3-2013-chatting-with-team-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/e3-2013-chatting-with-team-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/14/e3-2013-chatting-with-team-wildstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

WildStar
Massively returned to the WildStar demos at E3 on Thursday to chat one last time with the team from Carbine. As we noted in yesterday's Q&A article, Carbine had already declared it wasn't making any big announcements at E3. It always intended a low-key presence, sharing a booth hosted by Alienware and offering the same demo gamers are at PAX East, just brought to the west coast.

Why Alienware? WildStar runs really great on a laptop.

Good news, though: Carbine plans to have a big WildStar presence at Gamescom and PAX, and the team is working on demos that will show new content, new races, and new classes.

Continue reading E3 2013: Chatting with Team WildStar

MassivelyE3 2013: Chatting with Team WildStar originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Jun 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosconconventionconvention-coveragee3e3-2013electronic-entertainment-expoevent-coverageexpofeaturedinterviewinterviewsmassively-event-coveragencsoftpreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fiWildStarwsFri, 14 Jun 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The origin story of Guild Wars 2's Dragon Bash theme song]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/the-origin-story-of-guild-wars-2s-dragon-bash-theme-song/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/the-origin-story-of-guild-wars-2s-dragon-bash-theme-song/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/the-origin-story-of-guild-wars-2s-dragon-bash-theme-song/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

gw2 dragon bash theme song
If you like music, Guild Wars 2, or Guild Wars 2 music, you'll probably want to scope out the latest ArenaNet dev blog. It's all about the new Dragon Bash theme song, which originated way back in 2010 when ANet's Matthew Moore penned Spawn the Dragon, an a cappella ditty that captured the punchy spirit of the devs who pulled an all-nighter getting the fledgling game ready for its Gamescom debut.

The blog entry also details how the original song evolved into the boisterous pub-crawling tune that's present in today's live game. You can watch a behind-the-scenes recording video after the break, then head to the official Guild Wars 2 site for the full write-up.

Continue reading The origin story of Guild Wars 2's Dragon Bash theme song

MassivelyThe origin story of Guild Wars 2's Dragon Bash theme song originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playdragon-bashdragon-bash-themefantasyguild-wars-2gw2matthew-moorencsoftThu, 13 Jun 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2013: WildStar press briefing and Q&A with Jeremy Gaffney]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/e3-2013-wildstar-press-briefing-and-qanda-with-jeremy-gaffney/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/e3-2013-wildstar-press-briefing-and-qanda-with-jeremy-gaffney/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/e3-2013-wildstar-press-briefing-and-qanda-with-jeremy-gaffney/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

WildStar
When I was told I'd get to attend a media briefing with Jeremy Gaffney, I ran to my closet and busted out my old "STFU University" shirt! Good old South Tenkarrdum Foundry University! For those who don't know (or have forgotten), Gaffney was a founder of Turbine and worked on both Asheron's Call and Asheron's Call 2, my first two MMOs. Oh, and there's that WildStar game he was talking about. That sounds pretty cool too.

Sadly, about a week before E3, I was told that Carbine wouldn't be making any big announcement at the con. This would be a catch-up conference, and from what I saw, it was mainly aimed at Korean gamers who might not already be familar in the game. I love E3 because of its international setting, and truthfully, even from "old" news you can usually find some new information if you're careful... or a selfish reporter can snag the question-asking mic two times in one briefing. Don't worry; the second time was in a big batch of "raise your hand if you have a question" end-of-the-Q&A type deals. I'm not that selfish.

Continue reading E3 2013: WildStar press briefing and Q&A with Jeremy Gaffney

MassivelyE3 2013: WildStar press briefing and Q&A with Jeremy Gaffney originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosconconventionconvention-coveragee3e3-2013electronic-entertainment-expoevent-coverageexpofeaturedinterviewinterviewsjeremy gaffneyjeremy-gaffneyJeremyGaffneymassively-event-coveragencsoftpreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fiWildStarwsThu, 13 Jun 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar gets the band together for a game jam]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/12/wildstar-gets-the-band-together-for-a-game-jam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/12/wildstar-gets-the-band-together-for-a-game-jam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/12/wildstar-gets-the-band-together-for-a-game-jam/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A game jelly, meanwhile, is crushed and candied game discs. It's kind of horrible.
You don't get into a video game career to make huge stacks of money, you do it because you love games. That means that the idea of Game Jams can actually make sense. What's a Game Jam? Well, it's the event on display in the latest WildStar Wednesday, and it's also a way for the Carbine Studios team to relax from the stress of a work week by coming in and working for another eight hours on something crazy.

No, that's really the idea. As explained in the article, Game Jams consist of people coming into the office, deciding on a task, and splitting off into small teams to make a playable build of something within eight hours. It's a chance for designers, programmers, and artists to all stretch their legs a bit more, possibly exploring aspects of the game that they're not normally involved in on a day-to-day basis. And a chance for people to relax from work by doing more work, that's also a thing.

MassivelyWildStar gets the band together for a game jam originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Jun 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosdesignexperimentsgame-designgame-jamgame-mechanicsncsoftsandparksci-fantasysci-fiwildstarwildstar-wednesdaywsWed, 12 Jun 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2013: Not so wild about WildStar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/12/e3-2013-not-so-wild-about-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/12/e3-2013-not-so-wild-about-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/12/e3-2013-not-so-wild-about-wildstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

WildStar's promising players the moon, but are gamers just star-struck? I know I personally wasn't paying too much attention to the game until the recent video about paths. I'm not against the graphics, I think themeparks can be fun, and I've put up with PvE vs. PvP stats for about a decade and a half, so what's another year? But... well, I just keep getting the feeling that there's a lot of hype and no substance. The path video and the scientist path hands-on preview got me excited though. No longer were these empty promises! Someone had seen some of them first-hand! But maybe this was my downfall.

For those who don't know, E3 isn't about playing any game you want any way you want. Sometimes devs just bring the live game and let you have at it, but I find that often these games don't have a lot of announcements to make and are mainly there to let... ah, "less informed" gaming journalists see the game. No, instead, you often have a developer leading you on a very strict path, if you're even allowed to play the game. Maybe they release you with a premade character into a specific dungeon that "ends" when the boss dies. Or, as with my hands on with Wildstar, you might be restricted to a few class/paths and have to do the newbie experience.

Continue reading E3 2013: Not so wild about WildStar

MassivelyE3 2013: Not so wild about WildStar originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosconconventionconvention-coveragee3e3-2013electronic-entertainment-expoevent-coverageexpofeaturedhands-onmassively-event-coveragencsoftpreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fiWildStarwsWed, 12 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion interview discusses changes in crafting, a new rift, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/aion-qanda-discusses-changes-in-crafting-a-new-rift-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/aion-qanda-discusses-changes-in-crafting-a-new-rift-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/aion-qanda-discusses-changes-in-crafting-a-new-rift-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

AIon Q&A discussed changed in crafting, a new rift, and more
With Aion: Dark Betrayal just a short two weeks away, many eyes are turning (and returning) to the world of Atreia. The Gunslinger and Songeweaver have certainly sparked interest in new and veteran players alike. But 4.0 is more than just the new classes; it also includes an updated crafting system (to create items comparable to those in dungeons and the Abyss) and changes to neutral zone mechanics (to prevent invulnerable healers).

To answer some player questions about 4.0 and beyond, developer Seunguk Baek discussed these topics with Massively, touching on lower-level PvP, racial abilities, and even a new type of rift for higher-level Daevas that opens to another dimension entirely. See what he has to say after the break.

Continue reading Aion interview discusses changes in crafting, a new rift, and more

MassivelyAion interview discusses changes in crafting, a new rift, and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jun 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensioncraftingcrafting-changesf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsncsoftneutral-zonenew-riftPvPSeunguk-Baektruly-freeTue, 11 Jun 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Temporary content in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/flameseeker-chronicles-temporary-content-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/flameseeker-chronicles-temporary-content-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/flameseeker-chronicles-temporary-content-in-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Flameseeker Chronicles Temporary content in Guild Wars 2
Dragon Bash hits Guild Wars 2 today, and if you haven't yet checked out our video preview of the festivities, what are you waiting for? Dragon Bash is a holiday event, so much of what we'll be seeing in this update will be temporary content. These limited-time events have been the subject of much conversation in the community of late and, consequently, they're the topic of today's video edition of the Flameseeker Chronicles. Let's get to it!

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Temporary content in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Temporary content in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jun 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playcontentdragon-bashdragon-bash-festivalfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesgame-updatesguild-warsGuild-Wars-2gwgw1gw2ncsoftopinionpatchtrailertrailersvideovideosTue, 11 Jun 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: Raiding in WildStar is its own creature]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/the-nexus-telegraph-raiding-in-wildstar-is-its-own-creature/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/the-nexus-telegraph-raiding-in-wildstar-is-its-own-creature/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/the-nexus-telegraph-raiding-in-wildstar-is-its-own-creature/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Raid as a double entendre.
When WildStar comes out, it is going to have raiding. It's going to have the sort of raiding and group content that is meant to be challenging. No facerolls intended here; you'd better bring your A-game on raid night, or you will be facedown in the dirt so often that people will think you're doing a performance piece on the Kennedy family tree.

I am not a lover of raiding. This is not difficult to find evidence of on this site because I've talked about the issues with group-only endgame antics on more than one occasion. Heck, I wrote about how raiding turns you into a horrible person. So you would think I'd look at what we know about WildStar's endgame and start facepalming, possibly whilst shaking my head and muttering obscenities.

But I'm not. I'm totally cool with what we've been told so far about the endgame because there's much more than just the raiding aspect in the game, and I'm intrigued by how it's working out.

Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: Raiding in WildStar is its own creature

MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: Raiding in WildStar is its own creature originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioscolumnendgamefeaturedgroup-contentgroupsncsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionraidingraidssandparksci-fantasysci-fispeculationthe-nexus-telegraphwildstarMon, 10 Jun 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Wedding singer edition, June 10 - 16, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/the-stream-team-wedding-singer-edition-june-10-16-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/the-stream-team-wedding-singer-edition-june-10-16-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/the-stream-team-wedding-singer-edition-june-10-16-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Wedding singer edition, June 10 16, 2013
Have you ever been someplace, perhaps at an event, and spontaneously broken into song? And just maybe that wasn't quite an appropriate venue for a favorite heavy tune? Boy, the looks some people give you; I mean, what's really so wrong with injecting a little more groove into a wedding march anyways?

Well, luckily there are no such social taboos for spouting random song snippets on Massively TV! I know you understand that urge to just let loose a tune or two, right? It could be that you've belted out a concert-worthy rendition yourself when playing or watching your favorite games. We here at The Stream Team fully support that. We even contribute to the official organization: BOSS (Belting Out Spontaneous Songs). So why not join us where you know you won't be judged. Who knows, you might find a song to sing along with in this weeks streams.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Wedding singer edition, June 10 - 16, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Wedding singer edition, June 10 - 16, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video preview of Guild War 2's Dragon Bash Festival
ArenaNet's content train for Guild Wars 2 continues to chug along at full speed, and the next stop is the Dragon Bash festival. Unlike the Dragon Festival of the original Guild Wars, this festival won't find anyone revering dragons. The Elder Dragons put a kibosh on any warm sentiments that the humanoids of Tyria might have had for them in the past. Dragon Bash is all about unifying the races in celebration during these dark and terrifying times by distracting them with fireworks, gambling, and candy-filled dragon piñatas!

The celebrations officially kick off tomorrow, but we have a video preview of the Dragon Bash celebrations to whet your appetite.

Continue reading Video preview of Guild War 2's Dragon Bash Festival

MassivelyVideo preview of Guild War 2's Dragon Bash Festival originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playdragon-bashdragon-bash-festivaldragon-festivalfantasyfeaturedguild-warsGuild-Wars-2gwgw2ncsoftpreviewpreviewstrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 10 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: March beneath the raptor's wings]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/09/one-shots-march-beneath-the-raptors-wings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/09/one-shots-march-beneath-the-raptors-wings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/09/one-shots-march-beneath-the-raptors-wings/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots March beneath the raptor's wings
Man, it's downright shadowy underneath the raptor's wings! Reader Draxos is kicking off our player screenshot exhibition this week with an interestingly lit picture from Star Trek Online's new expansion.

"This picture is of my new Romulan character inside a Romulan space station that was having a few ... issues," Draxos wrote in. "When the lights suddenly go out in a space station, you become thankful for the brightness outside the window because then at least there is some chance of seeing what may now be lurking within the darkness. Although you could say that my Reman crew members are the true ones to be fearful of in the dark."

Couldn't you use the Borg's head as a flashlight? That's what I would do. Join us for more shadowy flights into dangerous worlds of characters who do not exist in today's One Shots!

Continue reading One Shots: March beneath the raptor's wings

MassivelyOne Shots: March beneath the raptor's wings originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryguild-wars-2gw2legacy-of-romulusncsoftone-shotsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpics-or-it-didnt-happenplaystation-3playstation3ps3pwereader-screenshotsreader-submissionsremusromulussandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosuperherosuperheroestelonuser-submissionsvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgSun, 09 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Aion 4.0 videos showcase new classes and skills]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/08/massively-exclusive-aion-4-0-videos-showcase-new-classes-and-sk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/08/massively-exclusive-aion-4-0-videos-showcase-new-classes-and-sk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/08/massively-exclusive-aion-4-0-videos-showcase-new-classes-and-sk/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive Aion 40 videos showcase new classes and skills
The clock is ticking down, and the wait for Aion 4.0 is almost over. But eager Daevas don't have to sit and twiddle their wings until June 26th to see the new classes in action; NCsoft offered Massively a sneak peek with a new trailer depicting the Gunslinger toting guns galore (from pistols to aethercannons) and the Songweaver, who packs a mean treble clef and can heal mana. If you want to blast holes in your opponents or turn them into dancing penguins, this is the video for you.

Not interested in a new class? Then how about getting a gander at the new skills coming to the tried and true classes! There's something new for everyone as Daevas advance up to level 65. Take a look at those skills in the second video beyond the break.

[Source: NCsoft press release]

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Aion 4.0 videos showcase new classes and skills

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Aion 4.0 videos showcase new classes and skills originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.0aionAion-4.0ascensionDark-Betrayalexclusivef2pfantasyfree-to-playGunslingerlevel-cap-increaseMassively-Exclusivencsoftnew-classesnew-skillsSongweavertrailerstruly-freevideosSat, 08 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 launches authorized shoutcaster program]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/07/guild-wars-2-launches-authorized-shoutcaster-program/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/07/guild-wars-2-launches-authorized-shoutcaster-program/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/07/guild-wars-2-launches-authorized-shoutcaster-program/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars
According to ArenaNet, the introduction of Custom Arenas and Spectator Mode to Guild Wars 2 has resulted in a surge of new tournaments, which naturally has been accompanied by a surge in people shouting about those tournaments. ArenaNet hopes to keep the shouts coming with the introduction of its Authorized Shoutcaster Program.

Under the new program, Authorized Shoutcasters will receive notifications when highly rated teams square off against one another. Those shoutcasters can then jump into the match and stream the content live to what we can assume is a cheering throng of e-sports/Guild Wars fanatics. Streams will be delayed to prevent them from influencing the outcome of matches.

ArenaNet has already selected its first set of shoutcasters based on their community contributions and shoutcasting bona-fides. If you'd like to be considered for the role, you can post a link to your stream on the official Guild Wars 2 forums.

In other, somewhat related news, character slot expansions will be half-off 20% off (math!) from June 7th to June 9th. You can find the offer by checking in with the Black Lion Trading Company in-game.

Oh! And don't forget: Massively is in the market for a new Guild Wars 2 columnist.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 launches authorized shoutcaster program originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Jun 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetblack-lion-trading-companybuy-to-playesportsfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftshoutcastingshoutingFri, 07 Jun 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar will pull in the ex-WoW crowd, says dev]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/07/wildstar-will-pull-in-the-ex-wow-crowd-says-dev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/07/wildstar-will-pull-in-the-ex-wow-crowd-says-dev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/07/wildstar-will-pull-in-the-ex-wow-crowd-says-dev/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

WildStar will pull in the exWoW crowd, says dev
Finding the sweet spot in an MMO that applies to both casual and hardcore players might be the holy grail of the industry, but Carbine is convinced that it can deliver with WildStar -- and do so in a way that World of Warcraft no longer can.

Game Design Producer Stephan Frost was bold in his statements to MCV, saying that WildStar will be a true success story. "We're making something that's different," he said. "We're coming out at a time when WoW is losing subscribers, and we can fill the void for people who want an MMO that's deep, hardcore but also accessible to people. We've found through betas and trade shows that MMO players understand our game. They can see the improvements we've made and notice that this game is something pretty cool."

MassivelyWildStar will pull in the ex-WoW crowd, says dev originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Jun 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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WildStar
If you participated in WildStar's first stress test, aka The Stressening, or hope to jump in with its sequel, The Stress Continues, then this week's WildStar Wednesday is for you. Carbine Studios community director Troy Hewitt, live producer Craig Turner, and senior community manager David Bass penned the latest blog entry to discuss how the stress tests are going and what, exactly, the team managed to break this go-round, starting with instances capping improperly and names being distorted. (This last bit is probably a blessing for those testers running around named Legolas and Tyrion Lannister. You know I'm right.)

Bass specifically addresses the challenges of herding gamers who are "used to the usual 'STRESS TEST WEEKEND WOOOOOO!' hype," which is, you know, pretty much all of us. "The problem," he wrote, "was that we needed to do an actual stress test... one where we kept adding more and more players until something broke so that we could see where our weaknesses were." Like Bass, we're sure the "promise of a future beta invite" soothed any grumpiness.

MassivelyWildStar's devs break all the things in the latest stress test originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosCraig-Turnerdavid-bassdev-blogncsoftsandparksci-fantasysci-fistress-testtroy-hewittwildstarwildstar-wednesdaywsThu, 06 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet on the future of zergs and roles in Guild Wars 2's WvW]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/05/arenanet-on-the-future-of-zergs-and-roles-in-guild-wars-2s-wvw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/05/arenanet-on-the-future-of-zergs-and-roles-in-guild-wars-2s-wvw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/05/arenanet-on-the-future-of-zergs-and-roles-in-guild-wars-2s-wvw/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

ArenaNet on the future of zergs and roles in Guild Wars 2's WvW
ArenaNet designer Devon Carver has teased the team's vision for the future of Guild Wars 2 world-vs.-world PvP in a lengthy new blog post.

The entry is broken down into an analysis of the feature's current state as well as ANet's immediate and long-term goals. Among the latter are plans to address the zerg, player roles, and matchups and matchup scoring.

"Right now our game rewards you for holding an objective, not necessarily for taking it, and overwhelmingly favors the last server to log out for the day," Carver says. "We have some ideas in the pipeline to try to increase scoring when people are playing the game and to make it much more difficult to keep your territory without actively guarding it."

In other GW2 news, the dev team released a new video yesterday that focuses on the lore behind the Last Stand at Southsun and how it affects the game's "living story." Watch it after the break.

Continue reading ArenaNet on the future of zergs and roles in Guild Wars 2's WvW

MassivelyArenaNet on the future of zergs and roles in Guild Wars 2's WvW originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Jun 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playdevon-carterfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftpvpworld-vs-worldwvwWed, 05 Jun 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blade & Soul's 2.0 patch boasts weapon and skill upgrades]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/05/blade-and-souls-2-0-patch-boasts-weapon-and-skill-upgrades/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/05/blade-and-souls-2-0-patch-boasts-weapon-and-skill-upgrades/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/05/blade-and-souls-2-0-patch-boasts-weapon-and-skill-upgrades/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Blade & Soul's 2.0 patch boasts weapon and skill upgrades
NCsoft Korea just updated Blade & Soul's weapon and skill mechanics. According to Steparu.com, it's a game-changing patch because it introduces weapon upgrades and version 2.0 of the skill system. The latter includes special sub-menus and enhancement options for each skill, and Steparu speculates that the patch could be NCsoft's response to players who are looking for something to keep them busy at endgame.

The 2.0 patch also features crafting tweaks, a simplified repair system, and new belt and bracelet slots. You can see plenty of 2.0 screenshots at the source link below, as well as a gameplay video after the break.

Continue reading Blade & Soul's 2.0 patch boasts weapon and skill upgrades

MassivelyBlade & Soul's 2.0 patch boasts weapon and skill upgrades originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Jun 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blade-and-soulblade-and-soul-2.0blade-and-soul-gameplayfantasymartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoncsoftncsoft-koreaskillsvideoweapon-upgradesWed, 05 Jun 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Put me in, coach]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/05/choose-my-adventure-put-me-in-coach/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/05/choose-my-adventure-put-me-in-coach/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/05/choose-my-adventure-put-me-in-coach/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/05/choose-my-adventure-i-have-no-idea-what-im-doing-edition/
Every games writer must wonder, at some point in his career, whether he is in fact horrible at video games. Be the game Dota 2, EVE Online, or any of the other titles that make up my weekly play schedule, I worry I'm much better at having a good time than I am at actually manipulating game mechanics and making them perform the way I would want.

But it doesn't have to be that way. Yes, dear friends -- I can change. I just can't do it alone. I need your help to become the most powerful, handsome, talented, handsome, elite-geared, handsome video gamester in all the world. It's up to you to Choose My Adventure and in doing so to decide which title offers me the best chance of becoming a golden gaming god and offers you the best chance to be my tough-but-fair coach who is totally a lovable teddy bear underneath all the swearing and yelling.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Put me in, coach

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Put me in, coach originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Last week, the Last Stand at Southsun game update hit Guild Wars 2, and players were urged to infiltrate Canach's Lair to curtail the villainous Sylvari's latest scheme. While there may not be an official patch today, ArenaNet has offered up a guide previewing some new content that will be made available today.

Players bested the Ancient Karka during the November Lost Shores event, and now the Crazed Karka Queen has emerged to exact her sweet revenge. Unlike most of the Living Story content, however, this crabby boss encounter (and the event chains that accompany it) are permanent additions to the game.

If you're a fan of world boss encounters, map-wide event chains, and vendors with new loot, then you'll want to check out the special video edition of the Flameseeker Chronicles after the cut.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Bow down to the queen of Karka in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Bow down to the queen of Karka in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsGuild-Wars-2gwgw1gw2karkalast-stand-at-southsunncsoftopinionpreviewpreviewssouthsunsouthsun-covetrailertrailersvideovideosTue, 04 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Witness the betrayal in Aion's 4.0 E3 Trailer -- Beritra's Plot]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/04/massively-exclusive-witness-the-betrayal-in-aions-4-0-e3-trai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/04/massively-exclusive-witness-the-betrayal-in-aions-4-0-e3-trai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/04/massively-exclusive-witness-the-betrayal-in-aions-4-0-e3-trai/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive Witness the betrayal in Aion's 40 E3 Trailer Beritra's Plot
We've known for some time now that Aion's upcoming expansion, Dark Betrayal, is coming out this month. And thanks to this weekend's announcement, we even have the exact date the new classes and new lands will become available. But one bit of information has still eluded us: The details of this nefarious betrayal. Who exactly betrayed whom? The answer lies in this new 4.0 E3 launch trailer.

Dragon Lord Tiamat, defeated by Daevas, was betrayed by one of her own -- one who stole her dark secret to unlocking a powerful weapon for himself. And now that weapon is poised to bring forth a new era for the Balaur by eradicating Elyos and Asmodians alike. Get a glimpse of the newest threat to Daevas and watch the plot unfold in the launch trailer after the break.

[Source: NCsoft press release]

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Witness the betrayal in Aion's 4.0 E3 Trailer -- Beritra's Plot

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Witness the betrayal in Aion's 4.0 E3 Trailer -- Beritra's Plot originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.0aionAion-4.0ascensionBeritrabetrayalDark-BetrayalE3E3-launch-trailerf2pfantasyfree-to-playMassively-exclusivencsoftSciTechTiamattruly-freeTue, 04 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 celebrates Dragon Bash festival by giving us stuff to break]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/04/guild-wars-2-celebrates-dragon-bash-festival-by-giving-us-stuff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/04/guild-wars-2-celebrates-dragon-bash-festival-by-giving-us-stuff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/04/guild-wars-2-celebrates-dragon-bash-festival-by-giving-us-stuff/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 celebrates Dragon Bash festival by giving us stuff to break
If you're a fan of ArenaNet's parties (no, not those epic PAX parties -- in-game parties!) then we have a treat for you.

Starting June 11, Guild Wars 2 will be celebrating the Dragon Bash festival in game where players can build and destroy giant dragon effigies for candy and boosts, compete at mini-games like Dragon Ball and Moa Racing, win special rewards including exclusive weapon skins and holographic dragon wings, shoot off fireworks, and more. The grand finale will culminate in a lighting ceremony on June 18 in Lion's Arch.

To help kick off this year's event, ArenaNet sent around a few real-life piñatas for various gaming website staff to break open themselves and record on video. You can bet that we went a little... overboard with this one. Follow along in the gallery below for images from the festival and after the cut for some piñata bashing, Massively style.

Gallery: Guild Wars 2 Dragon Bash

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 celebrates Dragon Bash festival by giving us stuff to break

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 celebrates Dragon Bash festival by giving us stuff to break originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playcrazydragon-bashdragon-bash-festivalfantasyguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftpinatavideoTue, 04 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: Playing a WildStar mind game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/the-nexus-telegraph-playing-a-wildstar-mind-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/the-nexus-telegraph-playing-a-wildstar-mind-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/the-nexus-telegraph-playing-a-wildstar-mind-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Look those trailing titles are hard sometimes.
We still don't know exactly what the last two WildStar classes will look like, unless my speculation turns out to be true (and you'd better believe that I believe it). But as it happens, we don't know quite as much about one of the four we are aware of. Espers are a known quantity, but they've been... not hidden, precisely. But they're also not as visible as Spellslingers, Warriors, and Stalkers. Ironic, since they were one of the first classes we knew about.

Last week I was focused on unpacking paths from the recent preview event. This time, I want to talk about Espers. I also want to talk about leveling your character and dissecting some of the other information we've been getting about the title, while leaving out one crucial bit of WildStar discussion in anticipation of next week. Yes, I have plans. You'll figure it out or see it in the "next week" blurb. Either way.

Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: Playing a WildStar mind game

MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: Playing a WildStar mind game originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Jun 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosclassclassescolumnespersfeaturedgame-mechanicsncsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionperkssandparksci-fantasysci-fispecializationstalentsthe-nexus-telegraphwildstarMon, 03 Jun 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Calorie-free edition, June 3 - 9, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/the-stream-team-calorie-free-edition-june-3-9-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/the-stream-team-calorie-free-edition-june-3-9-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/03/the-stream-team-calorie-free-edition-june-3-9-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Caloriefree edition, June 3 9, 2013
With summer right around the corner, a number of folks are thinking of ways to shape up a little more before hitting the beaches. Of course, as gamers we may not understand this strange desire to actually go out in the sunlight, but we, too, can be swept up in the fervor. So The Stream Team is here to offer you some calorie-free treats to help you through your week. Each and every tasty morsel on Massively TV is guaranteed to be 100% calorie-free.

Got cravings in between your livestream meals? Just click on a rerun and snack away anytime you like! Then just sit back and watch the hours just melt away.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Calorie-free edition, June 3 - 9, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Calorie-free edition, June 3 - 9, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionagonaionanetaq-worldsArcane-Sagaarenanetarkark-hunterarkfallascensionaventurinebiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gamesconquestconsoleconsolesdarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdefiancedfdota-2eaelectronic-artselsword-onlineeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfrfree-realmsfree-to-playguild-wars-2gw2hi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidskids-mmolivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmetammo-shootermmofpsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvncsoftopen-pvpplaneplanesplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3pollps2ps3pvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fishooterSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamswtorsyfythe-old-republicthe-stream-teamthird-person-shooterthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptortpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstruly-freetvtwitchtwitch-tvunholy-warswarwarcraftwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warplaneswowwowpxboxMon, 03 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia Exclusive: Soar into Aion 4.0 June 26th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/01/wings-over-atreia-exclusive-soar-into-aion-4-0-june-26th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/01/wings-over-atreia-exclusive-soar-into-aion-4-0-june-26th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/01/wings-over-atreia-exclusive-soar-into-aion-4-0-june-26th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia Exclusive Soar into Aion 40 June 26th
Could it be? Is that really... it IS! Your eyes do not deceive you; there really is a bonafide date set for the release of Aion's next expansion, Dark Betrayal. And I've got to tell you, it is such a relief to be able to share the news without the chance of that electric shock collar going off. You'll be able to spread your wings in Katalam and Danaria -- or just spread new wings period if you go for one of the new classes -- come June 26th. But here's the catch: If you still have things you want to get in order before the expansion hits (perhaps gain a level or two like some people we know), now you've got a deadline!

Luckily, for all those stuck in the position of needing to advance in levels a bit to experience all of what 4.0 offers, Aion's got just the event to help you out. Starting June 5th and going all the way to launch on the 26th, any and all Daevas -- meaning level 10 and above -- can participate in Code Red and receive special enhancements to aid in their adventures.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia Exclusive: Soar into Aion 4.0 June 26th

MassivelyWings Over Atreia Exclusive: Soar into Aion 4.0 June 26th originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Jun 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.04.0-launch-dateaionAion-4.0ascensionBlack-Cloud-MarketplaceBlackCloud-MarketplaceCode-RedCode-Red-eventDanariaDark-Betrayalf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playKatalammassively-exclusivencsoftopinionspecial-dealsspecial-eventtruly-freewings-over-atreiaSat, 01 Jun 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar economy post talks item decay, Raph Koster, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/31/wildstar-economy-post-talks-item-decay-raph-koster-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/31/wildstar-economy-post-talks-item-decay-raph-koster-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/31/wildstar-economy-post-talks-item-decay-raph-koster-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

WildStar economy post talks item decay, Raph Koster, and more
What do hyperinflation and Raph Koster's A Theory of Fun for Game Design have to do with WildStar? Well, they're both mentioned in the game's latest dev blog. As you may have guessed, it's all about the title's economy, and Senior Systems Designer Charles "Bull" Durham expends quite a bit of virtual ink talking about things like resource sinks, resource fonts, and Carbine's interpretation of "fun" as it relates to resource reallocation.

Durham also mentions item decay in passing, though it's not clear whether or not the game will make use of the mechanic in some form or fashion. "We also want to make sure that when you have to make a choice, it is based on what you, the player, feels is most important. Therefore, the choices cannot be too obvious or too enmeshed in critical needs," he writes. "Item repair, for example, doesn't offer much in the way of choice, so it shouldn't be an impactful, painful thing. We will get into this particular money sink later, but it is a very handy and fair money sink to have."

MassivelyWildStar economy post talks item decay, Raph Koster, and more originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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ArenaNet releases Last Stand at Southsun Cove guide
Are you looking for a how-to on Guild Wars 2's Last Stand at Southsun Cove content? You're in luck, because ArenaNet has penned a guide that will point you in the right direction. Depending on your level of spoiler sensitivity, you may want to stick with the Spoiler-Free Mini Guide. If you're more of an all-spoilers-all-the-time type, go ahead and peruse the New Rewards and New Achievements section of the guide while you're at it.

We would tell you more, but then there'd be no reason to click through to the guide itself, now would there?

MassivelyArenaNet releases Last Stand at Southsun Cove guide originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyguidesguild-wars-2gw2gw2-guideslast-stand-at-southsunlast-stand-at-southsun-covencsoftThu, 30 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wildstar Wednesday: Caste, ritual and the ascension of an emperor god]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/wildstar-wednesday-caste-ritual-and-the-ascension-of-an-empero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/wildstar-wednesday-caste-ritual-and-the-ascension-of-an-empero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/wildstar-wednesday-caste-ritual-and-the-ascension-of-an-empero/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Wildstar Wednesday
WildStar is set in a dangerous and unpredictable universe where anything goes, but that doesn't mean some of the game's inhabitants aren't just dripping with class and old-money tradition. This week's WildStar Wednesday outlines the history of the Luminai, an Eldan-human hybrid race that currently walks the halls of power in the Dominion -- and has its eyes set on the conquest of Nexus.

The story of the Luminai is deep and intriguing and hinges on some familiar themes. There's a lauded leader who reigned over 300 years of peace, an elite tier of people who named themselves as gods, a caste system forged by an emperor's decree, and an ongoing tussle for power between competing houses that often results in bloodshed and betrayal. Heck, there's even a forced coup and a "dark reign."

Click the jump to get a closer look at Myrcalus the Vindicator, the current emperor of the Dominion and the man-Eldan who swears to bring Nexus under its rule. And keep a lookout for the Luminai while you're in WildStar. They are, after all, your gods.

Continue reading Wildstar Wednesday: Caste, ritual and the ascension of an emperor god

MassivelyWildstar Wednesday: Caste, ritual and the ascension of an emperor god originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacarbinecarbine-studiosdominionlorencsoftnexussandparksci-fantasysci-fiwildstarwildstar-wednesdaywsWed, 29 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 data mining finds evidence of LFG tool]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/guild-wars-2-data-mining-finds-evidence-of-lfg-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/guild-wars-2-data-mining-finds-evidence-of-lfg-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/guild-wars-2-data-mining-finds-evidence-of-lfg-tool/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 data mining finds evidence of LFG tool
An enterprising Redditor has discovered evidence of a looking for group tool in Guild Wars 2's current files. After plowing through file strings in the game's .dat file, the player found hints that a LFG tool is not just in development but may be coming soon to a game near us.

The files imply players will be able to filter/advertise/find/pull an LFG search, advertising one's group, finding players for living world content, and pulling together a party for a full range of dungeons and PvP.

The .dat file has a few more insights into the future of Guild Wars 2, including back-to-school town clothes, swimwear, a dragon mask, an unlimited logging axe, festive dragon coffers, and something called Skyhammer. Regarding the latter, one of its commands reads, "Maintain control of the Skyhammer cannon to call down lightning and vaporize your foes." Obviously, you need one of these, don't you?

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 data mining finds evidence of LFG tool originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playdragondragon-festivalfantasyguild-wars-2gw2lfglfg-toollooking-for-grouplooking-for-group-toolncsoftredditskyhammerWed, 29 May 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lindvior touches down in Lineage 2 today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/lindvior-touches-down-in-lineage-2-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/lindvior-touches-down-in-lineage-2-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/29/lindvior-touches-down-in-lineage-2-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lindvior touches down today in Lineage 2
Today's the day that the goddess Shilen unleashes her fury on the world of Aden in the form of her champion, the dragon Lindvior, Lord of the Western Winds. But Lineage II's latest update, Lindvior Goddess of Destruction, brings more than just this epic dragon boss to test the mettle of players. It also adds more Awakened classes (bringing the total from eight to 34), three new zones, and plenty of new armor and weapons. On top of that, players will have a new character customization system with over 100 new looks.

Gon Namkung, L2's development director, stated, "This is by far the most intricate challenge that players have ever faced in Lineage II throughout its long and storied history. The entire Lineage II development team is proud of this achievement and we are confident only the best players will defeat Lindvior." He continued, "We issue this challenge to all our players, who will defeat Lindvior first!?"

[Sourse: NCsoft press release]

MassivelyLindvior touches down in Lineage 2 today originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Guild Wars 2 video highlights Last Stand at Southsun
Later today, Guild Wars 2 players will get to enjoy new content when the Last Stand at Southsun update goes live. But why wait to see what's in store? ArenaNet has released a gameplay video showing off footage of some of this update's highlights, including a glimpse of a new boss encounter and a glance at the limited-time achievements and rewards available.

Not enough detail in that short clip nestled after the break? Then join the ArenaNet community team on the studio's official Twitch.tv channel at 3:00 p.m. EDT today (May 28th) for a livestream look.

[Source: ArenaNet press release]

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 video highlights Last Stand at Southsun

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 video highlights Last Stand at Southsun originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyguild-wars-2gw2Last-Stand-at-Southsunlimited-time-achievementslivestreamncsoftpatchupdateTue, 28 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Prepare for crazy Karka in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/28/flameseeker-chronicles-prepare-for-crazy-karka-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/28/flameseeker-chronicles-prepare-for-crazy-karka-in-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/28/flameseeker-chronicles-prepare-for-crazy-karka-in-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This image has nothing to do with anything, I just like it
I hope you've all been enjoying your time in sunny Southsun Cove. We talked about it last week, so if you're a little lost as to what's going on, I'd suggest reading back a bit.

Wooden Potatoes recently posted an excellent recap of what's changed and happened in Guild Wars 2 from launch to the present day. It's an good reflection, which will hopefully give us a good perspective as we look at where the game might be going.

At almost precisely nine months of launched life, Guild Wars 2 is at something of a defining point. It looks as if the team is going to be moving to a more rapid cadence. That's not a guarantee, but as we're seeing more consistent releases, I'm prepared to get my hopes up a little bit. We're also seeing more sPvP and WvW features coming down the pipe; the last few updates set that in motion, and the preview for today's patch seems to be following up in support of those.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Prepare for crazy Karka in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Prepare for crazy Karka in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesgoodbyeguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2karkalast-stand-at-southsunncsoftopinionsecret-of-southsunsouthsunsouthsun-coveTue, 28 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: WildStar forges a path]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/27/the-nexus-telegraph-wildstar-forges-a-path/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/27/the-nexus-telegraph-wildstar-forges-a-path/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/27/the-nexus-telegraph-wildstar-forges-a-path/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Field science is a risky proposition at the best of times. This is not the best of times.
The latest news out of WildStar's new previews isn't going to quiet people who dislike the concept of the game's path system, nor will it stanch the flow of complaints about the game's art style. Those of us simply waiting at attention, however, found ourselves rewarded this week with a wealth of new information, not to mention the best look we've yet seen at how the paths will work together in action instead of concept.

And that's only the tip of the iceberg; Jeremy Gaffney has said so many things that merit unpacking that it's almost impossible to swallow some of the implications. There is, in fact, far too much to unpack in a single week. So I'm going to look at paths and start figuring out everything else next week.

I may also gush about the Mechari at some point. It's like GLaDOS, Hal, and Starscream had a kid.

Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: WildStar forges a path

MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: WildStar forges a path originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetascarbinecarbine-studioscolumnexplorerfeaturedgame-mechanicsncsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionpath-mechanicspathssandparksci-fantasysci-fiscientistsettlersoldierthe-nexus-telegraphwildstarMon, 27 May 2013 12:00:00 EST