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[April Ask Cryptic talks nemesis, heavy weapons, and player-generated content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/april-ask-cryptic-talks-nemesis-heavy-weapons-and-player-gener/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/april-ask-cryptic-talks-nemesis-heavy-weapons-and-player-gener/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/april-ask-cryptic-talks-nemesis-heavy-weapons-and-player-gener/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The nemesis system has long been one of the coolest features of Champions Online -- on paper, at least. The reality of the implementation leaves something to be desired according to players, though, and Cryptic hasn't offered much in the way of concrete details on a possible revamp. Today's Ask Cryptic focuses exclusively on Champions and showcases a number of questions from players keen on divining the future for their favorite costumed alter-egos.

In addition to answering a query about nemesis, Champions devs are put to the test regarding a variety of issues including new heavy weapons skins, targeting concerns, lair updates, and the possibility of a player-content system like Star Trek Online's Foundry. "There is a bit of work to get it to fit Champs but we are checking it out. The Foundry is doing great in Star Trek and we have no doubt you can build stories in Champs that can blow theirs out of the stars," Cryptic says.

MassivelyApril Ask Cryptic talks nemesis, heavy weapons, and player-generated content originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticchampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfoundryfree-to-playheavy-weapon-skinsheavy-weaponsmen-in-tightsnemesisnemesis-systemplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentstar-trek-onlinestosuperherowomen-in-tightsTue, 05 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The mysteries of UNITY]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/behind-the-mask-the-mysteries-of-unity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/behind-the-mask-the-mysteries-of-unity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/behind-the-mask-the-mysteries-of-unity/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you've never made the trip to level 40 in Champions Online, the endgame is somewhat of a mystery. I remember prior to getting my first level 40 that people would talk about things like "Nemcon" and "dailies." I found it kind of strange that a level 35 character couldn't sidekick or otherwise experience anything similar to these things. That all changed for me when I journeyed into the UNITY building for the first time.

It was a little confusing -- there were no easy guides telling me where to start NemCon or what the "Qliphothic research" was for. Fortunately, you guys don't have to feel as much like a noob as I did.

Warning: This article includes some spoilers for the plot of NemCon.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The mysteries of UNITY

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The mysteries of UNITY originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosendgameendgame-contentnemesisnemesis-confrontationnemesis-systempveraidingunityThu, 16 Dec 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Socializing and the quiet of space in STO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/captains-log-socializing-and-the-quiet-of-space-in-sto/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/captains-log-socializing-and-the-quiet-of-space-in-sto/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/captains-log-socializing-and-the-quiet-of-space-in-sto/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Star Trek universe caters to a whole lot of different interests. You've got your basic sci-fi fan, who enjoys the shows and movies but doesn't get super into them. You've also got your movie buffs, who perk up for showings of Wrath of Khan or Nemesis (ha!). Futurists marvel at the prophetic nature of old-school Trek tech, and casual fans used to flip on the boob tube to scope out Seven of Nine's ram scoops.

And of course, Star Trek has its die-hard fans, the Trekkers. (What's wrong with calling them "Trekkies," again?) I noticed a handful at New York Comic Con, traipsing about in their uniforms, snapping group pictures, scanning the Anime Festival next door for signs of intelligent life. And that got me to thinking about socializing in Star Trek Online. Why is it often so lonely in space?

Continue reading Captain's Log: Socializing and the quiet of space in STO

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Socializing and the quiet of space in STO originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-of-9boobscaptains-logdiablo-2diablo-ificationearth-spacedockfeaturedfinding-other-players-stomaking-friends-in-mmosmaking-friends-in-stomaking-mmos-more-casualnemesisnycc-2010qonosseven-of-ninesocializing-in-mmossocializing-in-stost-onlineStar-Trekstar-trek-deep-space-nineStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestosto-deep-space-ninesto-ds9sto-fleetssto-sector-spacesto-zone-chattrek-onlinetrekkerstrekkiesWorld-of-Warcraftworld-of-warcraft-dungeon-finderwrath-of-khanThu, 21 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Kilroy was (not) here]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/one-shots-kilroy-was-not-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/one-shots-kilroy-was-not-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/one-shots-kilroy-was-not-here/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you're fighting your way through Realtime Worlds' shiny new MMO, All Points Bulletin, and seek to stake your claim on a particular area, one of the ways you can let rival gang members (and police) know is by tagging signs around town. However, if you're trying to do it by yourself on a heavily populated map, it's a great way to wind up dead. After all, anyone can come along and shoot you while you're busy "spraypainting" your graffiti up. Today, we have a screenshot of a pair who managed to find an open spot and successfully pull off getting their design in place. This image comes to us courtesy of Brad, also known as Nemesis on the Zombie server, who writes in:

"This screenshot was taken after a long shoot out in the waterfront district. A fellow clan member and I held out on a rooftop and happened upon a blank billboard. We decided that the waterfront district needed to know who we were."

One Shots needs more screenshots! If you're playing an MMO -- from large to small -- we'd love to see one from you. All you have to do is email a screenshot to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post it out here and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Kilroy was (not) here originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbbradeaelectronic-artsgraffitinemesisone-shotsrealtime-worldsscreenshotscreenshotstagMon, 19 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Which class is your arch-nemesis?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/the-daily-grind-which-class-is-your-arch-nemesis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/the-daily-grind-which-class-is-your-arch-nemesis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/the-daily-grind-which-class-is-your-arch-nemesis/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Admit it: even the nicest amongst us have a deep-rooted grudge against a particular class. Our foe. Our bane. Our arch-nemesis. It's the class we squint at in anger whenever we see them pop up on the battlefield or in our PUGs. It's the class that gives us physical hives whenever we come into close contact with one of their members. It's the class that we gladly devote a nine-page rant against on the official game forums, calling for their extermination, or at the very least, to be neutered.

So what's your arch-nemesis class? Is it a class that repeatedly stamps all over your face in PvP? A class that is -- obviously -- so OP that you can't stand it? Perhaps it's a class that does whatever your class does, but better and with more flair. Maybe your arch-nemesis class seems to attract more mentally unstable and emotionally immature players than usual. So get it off your chest today -- which class is your arch-nemesis?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Which class is your arch-nemesis? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arch-nemesisclassesjoker-penguin-riddlernemesisopopinionoverpoweredpugpvptdgthe-daily-grindFri, 23 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Come to the dark side]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/one-shots-come-to-the-dark-side/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/one-shots-come-to-the-dark-side/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/one-shots-come-to-the-dark-side/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


With an in-depth character creator and the ability to group up with friends quickly and easily, it's kind of a no-brainer that Champions Online was one of our staff favorites for Best Capacity for Role-Play in the 2009 Massively awards. Of course, being based on an excellent pen & paper background certainly doesn't hurt as well! Today's great Champions Online One Shots comes to us from Steve B. who writes in: This is [a] shot of my Hero Kurotsuchi sitting in Shadow Destroyer's throne after completing the new Nemesis Confrontation content that launched [recently]. Maybe he's thinking of taking his place?

If you're a role-player in an MMO, we'd love to hear about your recent adventures. Just snag a screenshot relevant to your tale and send that in to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name and your story. We'll post it out here for everyone to enjoy and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Come to the dark side originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-studiosnemesisone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssteve-bThu, 07 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online previews Nemesis Confrontation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/champions-online-previews-nemesis-confrontation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/champions-online-previews-nemesis-confrontation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/champions-online-previews-nemesis-confrontation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


What's more dangerous than an interdimensional prison in which malevolent creatures of immense power plot the destruction of the entire Champions Online world? That same prison being taken over and used as a lair by your hero's Nemesis and the dangerous Shadow Destroyer. After hints and the surprise playtest event, the official site has unveiled a preview of the upcoming Nemesis Confrontation, which looks like an interesting jump forward in the content offered by the game.

Obviously, the Lair in question is the highlight of the update, which features combat against alien gladiators as well as a collection of powerful villains. There are other rewards to be earned as well, however -- ranging from a number of different hero enhancements to costume pieces in the vein of the enemies fought within the lair. If you can't wait to run the lair in order to get the costume pieces (perhaps you have a perfect character concept to start with), the preview promises that they will also be available in the C-Store. Champions Online isn't going to make players wait long for the event, either, as it's launching on the 24th. It should give players quite a bit to be thankful for -- when they're not battling extradimensional alien gladiators, at least.

MassivelyChampions Online previews Nemesis Confrontation originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecocostume-piecescrypticcryptic-studiosin-game-eventsmicrotransactionsnemesisnemesis-confrontationnews-itemspatchespreviewsWed, 18 Nov 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bill Roper talks about Champions Online successes and failures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/bill-roper-talks-about-champions-online-successes-and-failures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/bill-roper-talks-about-champions-online-successes-and-failures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/bill-roper-talks-about-champions-online-successes-and-failures/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Champions Online is still wet behind the ears, but we're moving through the game's third month of operation, time enough to take a slightly calmer look at how things went at launch and how the game has been shaping up. Jeux Online recently interviewed executive producer Bill Roper regarding the game's launch and its future, which might not contain as much information on the latter as the fans would like but still contains some interesting bits and pieces.

Looking forward, the most interesting bits are the promise of an upcoming Lair in which each player's Nemesis makes an appearance, in a union of several high-level threats to face off against a team of heroes. (Shades of the Masters of Evil or the Legion of Doom.) He also discusses a bit about the upcoming winter event, which he states will not include a new powerset but will include a number of "presents", as well as a fight against a truly massive opponent. There's also discussion regarding mission instancing a la City of Heroes, PvP maps, and the ongoing task of balancing Champions Online. How the game will mature in practice is yet to be seen, but we're getting a clearer and clearer idea about the game's direction at the very least.

MassivelyBill Roper talks about Champions Online successes and failures originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancebill-roperchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-studiosgame-balancegame-mechanicsin-game-eventsinterviewsnemesispvpTue, 17 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic's Bill Roper on balancing powers in Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/cryptics-bill-roper-on-balancing-powers-in-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/cryptics-bill-roper-on-balancing-powers-in-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/cryptics-bill-roper-on-balancing-powers-in-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


When news came in of the Champions Online launch being delayed to September, a few of the writers at Massively were despondent. It's always better for a game to launch once it's solid rather than release in a buggy state, though. While we wait for the re-scheduled September 1st launch, we're keeping up with the news and interviews surrounding the upcoming superhero title. In fact, we've just come across an MMOCrunch interview with Bill Roper, executive producer of Champions Online you might be interested in.

Roper gets into how some of the game mechanics in Champions Online will play out, and explains a bit about how travel powers like flight and teleportation can be countered by those without such capabilities. (For example, how does a ground-based melee character engage a kiting opponent in flight?) He also touches upon the game's sidekick system, which will allow newer players to temporarily boost their powers to keep up with higher level friends. Alternately, the sidekick system will give advanced characters the ability to tone their powers down to the level of their appallingly weak lower level buddies.

Continue reading Cryptic's Bill Roper on balancing powers in Champions Online

MassivelyCryptic's Bill Roper on balancing powers in Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill-roperchampions-onlinecryptic-studiosexecutive-producergame-mechanicsmmocrunchnemesisnemesis-systemproducersidekicksidekickssuper-herosuperherotravel-powersvillainvillainsWed, 08 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Twitter added to Champions Online, social butterflies rejoice]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/02/twitter-added-to-champions-online-social-butterflies-rejoice/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/02/twitter-added-to-champions-online-social-butterflies-rejoice/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/02/twitter-added-to-champions-online-social-butterflies-rejoice/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The first July 2009 State of the Game for Champions Online is out and it sure came with an interesting surprise. Namely, the addition of Twitter to the in-game feature set. Now we're sure some of you will scoff at this idea, but sit there for a moment while we paint you a mental picture.

You're inside a rather challenging instance, only moments away from the big fight. Your party is getting ready, resting up, etc and so you take a moment to hammer out a short message to your friends on Twitter. "Oh man, about to take on my Nemesis, Big Bad Boss Man, wish us luck!" you say, netting you a few encouraging replies. Then you engage and the ensuing carnage is nigh legendary. The party just takes a serious beating and is torn limb from heroic limb by your Nemesis. You decide to share this with the world, only to see your buddies instantly share their empathetic thoughts on your embarrassing defeat.

We think it's got some substantially fun possibilities. Plus, if Cryptic can work in Twitter support to their games, what else could they do? Facebook seems like the next step, but there's also Pandora and Last.FM support to consider, too.

MassivelyTwitter added to Champions Online, social butterflies rejoice originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribetachampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosfacebooknemesisstate-of-the-gametwitterThu, 02 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online dev blog talks designing Nemesis system missions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/champions-online-dev-blog-talks-designing-nemesis-system-missions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/champions-online-dev-blog-talks-designing-nemesis-system-missions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/champions-online-dev-blog-talks-designing-nemesis-system-missions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


As its release date creeps ever closer, we're bound to continue seeing more peeks into the development process of Champions Online. This particular look at the game lifts the curtain on designing Nemesis missions, an interesting topic considering we haven't heard too much about the system beyond its basic feature parameters.

Mostly what's discussed is the challenge of giving your nemesis more to do than kidnap people or try to rob a bank. Granted, they'll probably do that, but it depends on the personality you give them. Are they a maniac, a savage or a mastermind? Maybe they're something else even more dastardly, it's all up to you and that's the system's beauty.

We're considering making an evil robotic penguin themed nemesis. Our only difficulty is in decided what to call him. The Menacing Waddler? Hmm, that has possibilities.

MassivelyChampions Online dev blog talks designing Nemesis system missions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdev-blognemesisnemesis-systemTue, 23 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Who will your nemesis be?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/02/the-daily-grind-who-will-your-nemesis-be/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/02/the-daily-grind-who-will-your-nemesis-be/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/02/the-daily-grind-who-will-your-nemesis-be/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Yesterday, I got a request on Twitter from Karlmageddon, asking for a Daily Grind based on Champions Online, as he 'can't wait for that game!' As many of the team here at Massively are in the same 'can't wait' boat, we're only happy to oblige!

As was recently featured, Champions Online's Nemesis System allows you to build your very own personalized supervillain enemy. This morning we're going to ask a question that we've kicked around here on several occasions - just precisely what is your nemesis going to be like? Our head honcho, Shawn, said that while he's not exactly sure what he'll do, his nemesis "would have something to do with ice and cold and snow, because [he hates] the cold." Kyle, staff writer and graphics go-to guy, says "for my first character, and his/her Nemesis - I'll probably make an evil cybernetic shark. He'll be a bulging hulk of muscle and metal, armed ideally with lasers for added deadliness and humor. I may call him Blast Shark, Gazer Fish or Killo-Whale. In the event of the last name, he will of course no longer be a shark." Me? I'm going to see if there's something approaching a velociraptor in there somewhere, since we all know they're just waiting to wipe out humanity. How about you? What's your Champions Online nemesis going to be like?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Who will your nemesis be? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 May 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-studiosnemesisreader-requested-topictdgthe-daily-grindSat, 02 May 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This Champions Online trailer is your nemesis]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/26/this-champions-online-trailer-is-your-nemesis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/26/this-champions-online-trailer-is-your-nemesis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/26/this-champions-online-trailer-is-your-nemesis/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The latest Champions Online trailer is up on Gamespot and delivers quite a bit of action with plenty of focus on the game's Nemesis system. We also get a look at various powers and the in-game visage of Defender and Doctor Destoryer complete with heroic and villainous voice work. It's all very dramatic and exciting.

Moreover, this newest video also shows of the recently seen-in-screens only Ice Slide travel power. We're really starting to have a tough time deciding which powers will fill our repertoire and none of them have even been -- officially, at least -- revealed yet!

Oh well, it's not like we know a release date to start counting down to yet- oh that's right we do have that. Hmm, seems like everything is in place for our (ahem) hero worship phase to begin. You can find the entire video after the break.

Continue reading This Champions Online trailer is your nemesis

MassivelyThis Champions Online trailer is your nemesis originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdefenderdoctor-destroyernemesistrailervideoSun, 26 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nemesis system for Champions detailed, but not via dramatic monologue]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/nemesis-system-for-champions-detailed-but-not-via-dramatic-mono/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/nemesis-system-for-champions-detailed-but-not-via-dramatic-mono/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/nemesis-system-for-champions-detailed-but-not-via-dramatic-mono/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Sometimes you have to take the good with the bad, and in this case we get news of Champions Online's console release being delayed along with tasty new information on the game's nemesis system. It turns out the creation of a player's arch nemesis happen around mid-level and according to Bill Roper, the same tools used to build a hero are employed.

Players'll get to design a villainous costume, choose their dastardly powers, select some conniving minions, peruse for minion weaponry and also decide upon nemesis' motivations. After all that's completed minions will begin to harass the player via ambushes, but eventually one will talk and reveal a clue or two about his boss. This opens up a series of side missions that are designed as the biggest solo challenge in the game, although Bill pointed out that a nemesis showdown battle can be completed with a group of friends as well.

The nemesis system stands out as one of Champions Online's most unique features, and it seems like the tip of the iceberg of features designed to allow players to create custom in-game content for others to experience. A good start for the second superhero game to hit the MMO market.

MassivelyNemesis system for Champions detailed, but not via dramatic monologue originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribill-roperchampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studioseurogamernemesisnemesis-systemThu, 12 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reactive worlds, knowledge perks and storyline in Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/reactive-worlds-knowledge-perks-and-storyline-in-champions-onli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/reactive-worlds-knowledge-perks-and-storyline-in-champions-onli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/reactive-worlds-knowledge-perks-and-storyline-in-champions-onli/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Been wondering what the bigger picture was for storytelling in Champions Online? Well, today we got it. Bill Roper recently laid out the different tools for allowing players to do more than just pounding down punks as they progress through the game. Knowledge perks and a visible impact of the game world being the two biggies for us -- although we do still hold a soft spot for that Nemesis system, too.

With knowledge perks, as players discover, unlock and attain perks, they'll receive in-game rewards. We're very happy to see Cryptic focusing on story rewards, and with the eventual addition of the Investigation system there could be a ton of non-combat to experience in the future.

Reactive worlds has a ton of potential. The example given is when players work to reduce gang activity in Westside, it will cause the streets to become cleaner places. Our hope is that these reactive environments are littered throughout the game world in creative and interesting ways, as it reminds us a bit of Wrath of the Lich King's phasing feature -- which is something we think all MMOs need to include in the future.

MassivelyReactive worlds, knowledge perks and storyline in Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsataribill-roperchampions-onlinecryptic-studiosdev-blogknowledge-perksnemesisxbox-360Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official Champions DevBlog: Design Director Bill Roper on Storytelling]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/official-champions-devblog-design-director-bill-roper-on-stor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/official-champions-devblog-design-director-bill-roper-on-stor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/official-champions-devblog-design-director-bill-roper-on-stor/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Hello and welcome to issue number two of the Massively.com hosted official Champions Online developer blog! If you happened to miss the first one featuring Jack Emmert, you can find it right here. Remember, we should be seeing a developer post about twice a month between now and launch day. So if you're interested in following the insights straight from the team make sure to follow our very own Champions Developer blogger, who will be doing the honors of posting your bi-weekly dose of DevBlog goodness.

Today Bill Roper lays down some details on how Cryptic Studios is enabling a deeper sense of story in Champions Online. It's all pretty interesting stuff, and you can check it out after the cut!

Gallery: Champions Online Main Gallery

Continue reading Official Champions DevBlog: Design Director Bill Roper on Storytelling

MassivelyOfficial Champions DevBlog: Design Director Bill Roper on Storytelling originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argentataribill-roperchampions-onlinecryptic-studiosdev-blogdoctor-destroyerfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesmechanonmillennium-citynemesispsitakofanesteleiosviperWed, 04 Feb 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Cryptic explains how Star Trek Online will handle canon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/ask-cryptic-explains-how-star-trek-online-will-handle-canon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/ask-cryptic-explains-how-star-trek-online-will-handle-canon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/ask-cryptic-explains-how-star-trek-online-will-handle-canon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


The latest Ask Cryptic focusing on Star Trek Online addresses a number of questions sci-fi fans have about where the IP is heading in the MMO space. Not surprisingly, many of the questions asked of Cryptic deal with how well they'll adhere to Star Trek canon.

The Cryptic Studios devs were asked about how they would handle the iconic story and characters of Star Trek, namely with voiceovers and cut scenes. The devs state that Star Trek Online avoids issues of tampering with Trekkie canon by setting the game in 2409, a good 30 years after Star Trek: Nemesis and Star Trek: Voyager. So while some of the locales familiar to Star Trek fans will be present in the game, players shouldn't expect to bump into any (or many) familiar faces.

Continue reading Ask Cryptic explains how Star Trek Online will handle canon

MassivelyAsk Cryptic explains how Star Trek Online will handle canon originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticbackstorycanoncaptain-janewaycaptain-picardcrypticcryptic-studioscut-scenecut-scenesdefiantforumsfuturegame-mechanicsipjanewaylorenemesisnew-titlespicardpsionicspvpracesroleplayingscalesci-fisettingshipshipsstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestarshipstrekkietrekkiesvoiceoversFri, 05 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Cryptic touches on player-created content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/ask-cryptic-touches-on-player-created-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/ask-cryptic-touches-on-player-created-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/ask-cryptic-touches-on-player-created-content/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Every time Cryptic puts up a brand new Ask Cryptic article we have a tough time picking only one or two answers to talk about. However, this week was pretty easy. The very first question presented asks about how deep Champions Online will delve into the concept of player-created content, whether it be mods or actual in-game content. Jack Emmert responded reasonably by mentioning that the Nemesis system, costume creation, power selection and power customization features are merely the beginning. Apparently we that we can, "look to see [Cryptic] continue to open the door for more player-generated material." Which really makes us wonder what that means for Star Trek Online.

We must admit to this being an exciting proposition. It's our hope as comic book and MMO nerds that there's a future where we can submit completely unique costumes to go through moderated approval for each of our crazy characters in Champions Online. Or even custom animations! That would be unequivocally and unabashedly awesome. Don't disappoint us now, Cryptic.

MassivelyAsk Cryptic touches on player-created content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticchampionschampions-onlinecontentcostumecostumescrypticcryptic-studiosjack-emmertnemesisplayer-createdpower-customizationpower-setsstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestoWed, 30 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jack Emmert discusses the Champions IP in fresh new video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/video-jack-emmert-discusses-the-champions-ip/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/video-jack-emmert-discusses-the-champions-ip/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/video-jack-emmert-discusses-the-champions-ip/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


During a recent media event at Cryptic Studios, Jack Emmert gave a presentation on what the Champions IP was all about, including the history of the Champions universe and its super-powered beings. He also took some time to answer a few questions, and delineated how the Champions Online MMO will distinguish itself from City of Heroes.

Although the video misses a few minutes of the beginning of the presentation, it does cover the major figures such as Defender, Doctor Destroyer, and Foxbat (pictured above); the various organizations the world harbors; and the Nemesis system. There's a lot of great content in Emmert's words, and if you're like us, it all just makes you hungry for more. The full 14:50 video is all yours after the break!

Continue reading Jack Emmert discusses the Champions IP in fresh new video

MassivelyJack Emmert discusses the Champions IP in fresh new video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchampions-ipchampions-onlinecryptic-studiosdefenderdoctor-destroyerfeaturedfoxbatjack-emmertjoystiqfeaturesnemesispresentationvideoFri, 11 Jul 2008 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[You ask, Cryptic answers: Non-combat skills]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/15/you-ask-cryptic-answers-non-combat-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/15/you-ask-cryptic-answers-non-combat-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/15/you-ask-cryptic-answers-non-combat-skills/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There are many reasons why Cryptic Studios is awesome, one of those reasons is for letting us all live out our superhero fantasies -- the other is because of how involved they are with the community. When other developers are eschewing the very medium which subscribers and fans can get intimate with developers -- Cryptic is doing everything they can to make great use of it.

Recently, forum posters on the official Champions Online boards where given a stickied thread where they could hurl as many questions as they wanted at Cryptic. After the proper amount of question firing was complete (probably somewhere around or beyond the 100 range) select few questions were answered in length and the entire thing was posted to the main page on the official CO website. It's all very exciting!

Continue reading You ask, Cryptic answers: Non-combat skills

MassivelyYou ask, Cryptic answers: Non-combat skills originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 15 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arch-nemesisask-crypticchampions-onlinecrypticdeath-penaltyfeaturedhero-systemnemesisnon-combat-skillssupermanx-menSat, 15 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST