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[Ex-MMO devs aim to fund space combat game via Kickstarter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/ex-mmo-devs-attempt-to-fund-space-combat-game-via-kickstarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/ex-mmo-devs-attempt-to-fund-space-combat-game-via-kickstarter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/ex-mmo-devs-attempt-to-fund-space-combat-game-via-kickstarter/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Squad Wars
They were part of the force behind many MMOs you've known and loved, including Jumpgate, Auto Assault, LEGO Universe, RIFT, and League of Legends, and now they're banding together for a new cause funded by crowdsourcing. They're the developers at END Games, and they hope to raise a quarter of a million dollars to create a multiplayer space combat game.

Despite the team's legacy, however, this new title will not be an MMO. Titled Squad Wars, the proposed project will blossom into a frantic starfighter game that will pit squads of players against each other in the deadly vacuum of space. Instead of focusing on a persistent world, Squad Wars will offer packaged scenarios that will "ensure the most fun every time you login."

END Games is also notable in that two of its members were founders of NetDevil: Scott Brown and Ryan Seabury. As of the time of this writing, END Games has $1,430 toward its goal, which must be attained by May 19th for the project to proceed.

MassivelyEx-MMO devs aim to fund space combat game via Kickstarter originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto-assaultcrowdsourcingend-gamesjumpgatejumpgate-evolutionkickstarterleague-of-legendslego-universenetdevilnew-gamenew-titleriftRyan-Seaburysci-fiscifiScott-Brownspace-combatsquad-warsThu, 19 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: LEGO Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/rise-and-shiny-recap-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/rise-and-shiny-recap-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/rise-and-shiny-recap-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

LEGO screenshot
Ah, LEGO. Who in this world was unfortunate enough to grow up without the wonderful plastic bits of imagination? I remember specific types of LEGO, from the hinged legs of the minifigs to the more advanced gears and pistons of the Technic sets. We used to build great long space battleships, similar to the ones you might see in Star Blazers, and we would run down the hall at each other, smashing them into hundreds of wonderful hard plastic pieces. LEGO built my childhood and was as important to me as destroying wasp's nests and building forts. Of course, girls moved to the top of the list pretty soon after that.

So when I heard about LEGO Universe, I was as excited as any normal person would be. I imagined building anything possible, sort of like a child-friendly Second Life, and spending hours in gleeful, plastic bliss. What I found during the beta greatly disappointed me.

Flash forward to now, and I have to say that my opinion has changed quite a bit. Let me tell you what I found, OK? Click past the cut... but leave the massive battleships behind for now.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: LEGO Universe

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpLEGOLEGO-UniverseLiveStreamnetdevilrise-and-shinytoysvideovideosSun, 28 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ex-NetDevil programmer talks LEGO Universe and getting an industry job]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/ex-netdevil-programmer-talks-lego-universe-and-getting-an-indust/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/ex-netdevil-programmer-talks-lego-universe-and-getting-an-indust/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/ex-netdevil-programmer-talks-lego-universe-and-getting-an-indust/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fan site MMO Fallout has an interesting interview with Stephen Calender that's worth a read. Who's Stephen Calender? He's a Flash developer who was front and center for the brouhaha that went down when The LEGO Group acquired the LEGO Universe MMO from NetDevil (putting many NetDevil programmers out of work in the process).

The interview is a wide-ranging and lengthy affair, and it features discussion on Gazillion's relationship with NetDevil, a blurb about the ill-fated Auto Assault, and of course, the bulk of the piece that focuses on the past and future of LEGO Universe. For all of the aspiring game devs in the audience, Calender also spends quite a bit of time talking about selling yourself in an increasingly competitive industry.

MassivelyEx-NetDevil programmer talks LEGO Universe and getting an industry job originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-interviewsf2pfamilyfree-to-playgazillioninterviewkidslegolego-grouplego-universemmo-industrynetdevilprogrammingstephen-calenderthe-lego-groupMon, 25 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Former LEGO Universe dev: 'I have decided to get out of the MMO game']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/former-lego-universe-dev-i-have-decided-to-get-out-of-the-mmo-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/former-lego-universe-dev-i-have-decided-to-get-out-of-the-mmo-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/former-lego-universe-dev-i-have-decided-to-get-out-of-the-mmo-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We're all familiar with that guy who gets burned out on his game and makes a very public and lengthy rant as to why he's quitting on the official forums. But what happens when a developer does the same thing to a larger audience? Today we found out, as former LEGO Universe dev Ryan Seabury wrote an open letter saying why he left NetDevil -- and why he'll never work on MMOs again.

Seabury cites four reasons: that the "MMO" label has lost its meaning, it takes too long and is too stressful to develop new games, it's difficult to play around with creative concepts, and the market is trending toward indie titles anyway. He left to start up END Games Entertainment so that he and others of a similar mind could indulge in "a ridiculous variety of game ideas" instead of treading the waters of the status quo.

His letter is largely upbeat as he focuses on the joys of game development and play, and he thinks that it's high past time studios break out of old mindsets to embrace the new: "We have come to a point where the game concept trumps such insignificant bullet points, and global social connectivity is a given. From a creative standpoint, this is fantastic. Ideas are king once again; the industry feels as vibrant to me as the golden nostalgia years I experienced as a kid growing up through the coin-op and early console eras, except we've finally ditched the nerd-in-basement stigma."

You can read Seabury's full letter over at Kotaku.

MassivelyFormer LEGO Universe dev: 'I have decided to get out of the MMO game' originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 May 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>end-gamesend-games-entertainmentindiekotakulegolego-grouplego-universenetdevilopen-letterryan-seaburyTue, 24 May 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe opens the Nexus Tower]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lego-universe-opens-the-nexus-tower/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lego-universe-opens-the-nexus-tower/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/lego-universe-opens-the-nexus-tower/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's always nice to finish a big construction project of LEGO bricks, even if you're just making something out of spare bricks on your desktop instead of working. It's the same for LEGO Universe, but in a somewhat more substantive fashion -- the Nexus Tower, a massive structure composed of a huge number of bricks, has finally been completed in-game. Thanks to players donating bricks and working toward the tower's completion, everyone can start enjoying the features of this large-scale hub as well as several content updates due to accompany it.

Players who explore the tower will find over 50 new missions to undertake as well as several faction leaders to work alongside as they learn more about the history of the game's multiversal setting. There are also new items, new pets, new daily missions, and a promise of more content to come down the pipeline following this. LEGO Universe players can check out all of the new stuff in-game now, but if you can't log in right at the moment, take a look at the trailer just after the break.

Continue reading LEGO Universe opens the Nexus Tower

MassivelyLEGO Universe opens the Nexus Tower originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 May 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>legolego-universelumajor-patchesmajor-updatesnetdevilnexus-towerpatchesupdatesMon, 23 May 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What is your favorite internet spaceship?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/the-daily-grind-what-is-your-favorite-internet-spaceship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/the-daily-grind-what-is-your-favorite-internet-spaceship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/the-daily-grind-what-is-your-favorite-internet-spaceship/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When we talk about intergalactic transportation, there is no end to the variety of shapes and sizes of starships. Even within specific genres of science fiction, the starships are consistently inconsistent. In Star Wars, the Imperial ships are very angular, whereas the Mon Calamari ships are kind of puffy. If you look at Star Trek, you see a multitude of cultural differences between the spacecraft. Federation ships are very pristine, clean, and diplomatic. On the other had, Klingon ships carry the mark of the aggressive species that created them.

Many MMOs have introduced us to ships we can pilot in a virtual world. Star Wars Galaxies and Star Trek Online were mentioned above, but there is also EVE Online and Taikodom -- not to mention games still in development like Star Wars: The Old Republic and Jumpgate Evolution. So in the spirit of EVE fanfest, we are asking today: What is your favorite internet spaceship?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What is your favorite internet spaceship? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtariccpCrypticEVEeve-onlineGamersfirstgazillion-entertainmentinternet-spaceshipsJGEjumpgate-evolutionNetdevilsci-fiscience-fictionSOESonyspacespaceshipStar-Trekstar-trek-onlineStar-WarsStar-Wars-GalaxiesSTOSWGtaikodomthe-daily-grindTue, 29 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe builds community via community building]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/lego-universe-builds-community-via-community-building/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/lego-universe-builds-community-via-community-building/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/lego-universe-builds-community-via-community-building/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The fun of playing with LEGO sets is only half in the assembly -- a lot of the enjoyment comes with showing off what you've created to others, no matter your age. It's an element that LEGO Universe has taken to heart, as a recent release talks about the community events the game has run thus far and the plans for more events in the future.

Each month of the game's operation has been based around a core theme for community events and challenges, giving players unified goals to work toward. March is the Battle Month, with the final event taking place this weekend in the Battle for Nimbus Station. Players who successfully face off against 29 waves of enemies will be in the running to win a variety of in-game prizes as well as some real-world LEGO sets.

The Creation Lab has also been a major area of development, allowing user-generated content to come front and center in the community. Even if you're not currently playing LEGO Universe, you can take part in some of the contests and get your own buildings in the game -- sharing what you've built with everyone even if it's not made out of plastic bricks.

MassivelyLEGO Universe builds community via community building originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildingcommunity-contestscommunity-eventscontestscreationinnovationkid-gameskidslegolego-brickslego-universelunetdeviloriginal-creationugcuser-generated-contentThu, 24 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gazillion press release clarifies Netdevil layoff rumors]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/gazillion-press-release-clarifies-netdevil-layoff-rumors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/gazillion-press-release-clarifies-netdevil-layoff-rumors/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/gazillion-press-release-clarifies-netdevil-layoff-rumors/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The NetDevil/LEGO Universe brouhaha that unfolded earlier this morning is officially official thanks to a press release just published by Gazillion Entertainment. Gazillion has formally agreed to sell its development stake in the LEGO Universe MMO to the LEGO Group (the game's publisher and custodian of the world-famous toy brand).

Most of the LEGO devs, formerly employed by NetDevil (a Gazillion subsidiary), have received employment offers from the LEGO Group and will continue iterating on the game from the company's Louisville, Colorado studio.

Gazillion is re-focusing its ongoing development efforts into browser games, according to President and COO David Brevik. "The transition of members of our team to the LEGO Group enables us to focus completely on internally-published, free-to-play game businesses," he said.

MassivelyGazillion press release clarifies Netdevil layoff rumors originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionsbreakingbrowser-baseddavid-brevikf2pfree-to-playgazilliongazillion-entertainmentlegolego-grouplego-universemmo-industrynetdevilpress-releaseThu, 24 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NetDevil lays off large portion of its staff [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/netdevil-lays-off-large-portion-of-its-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/netdevil-lays-off-large-portion-of-its-staff/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/netdevil-lays-off-large-portion-of-its-staff/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

When it comes to game development, it's somewhat common to see a layoff or realignment of development team members shortly after the release of a title. However, it appears that NetDevil's most recent round of layoffs came as a complete surprise to its employees. After all, the company's most recent release, LEGO Universe, is well past that initial post-launch phase, having gone live back in October 2010, and both Jumpgate Evolution and Fortune Online are (at least supposedly) under development currently at the studio. There are jobs posted on the hiring page, as well.

However, it appears that the developer, owned by Gazillion Entertainment, is on shaky ground as of this morning, according to rumors. The truly horrible thing about this isn't that some developers were laid off -- it's how the affected employees found out. It appears that some of the NetDevil employees were notified that they were going to be laid off via Facebook postings before they were officially contacted by the company, according to a blog posting by Toby Cochran, who worked as a character/creature animator on LEGO Universe. Apparently an image showing a tombstone with the inscription "NetDevil R.I.P. Oct 1997-Feb 2011" started making the rounds on social networking sites shortly thereafter, indicating a far bleaker picture than just that of layoffs.

We've reached out to NetDevil and Gazillion Entertainment for comment on the rumors and what, if anything, it will mean for the development of Jumpgate Evolution and Fortune Online. We'll be sure to update this post as soon as we have further information. In the meantime, we hope that all the talented, hard-working NetDevil employees who were affected are able to land fabulous new well-paying spots elsewhere, continuing to do what they love.

[Update: We received the following statement from NetDevil: "The transition of members of our team to the LEGO Group allows us to conclude the work-for-hire segment of NetDevil's business and lets us expand our internally-published, free-to-play game businesses based on our own properties and licensed properties. Gazillion is wholly focused on developing, operating, and publishing the next generation of browser-delivered games," said David Brevik, President and COO. "We're proud of the LEGO Universe game that our team built, and we are certain that it has a bright future."]

MassivelyNetDevil lays off large portion of its staff [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessemployeesfacebookFOfortune-onlinegazilliongazillion-entertainmentJGEjumpgate-evolutionlayoffslego-universeLUmmo-industrynet-devilNetDevilrumorsocial-networkingtoby-cochranThu, 24 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: Fortune Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/first-impressions-fortune-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/first-impressions-fortune-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/first-impressions-fortune-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

You know, there is no shortage of "Diablo clones" out there. We've all played them, and we've probably enjoyed many. It's safe to say that "Diablo-esque" is a real word with real meaning -- something you can say to your gaming buddy and he'll know exactly what you mean. However, as with any other genre, it's very easy for it to become repetitive and boring. The initial thrill of the game or style that inspired the movement tends to pass away if developers continue to regurgitate it in the hopes of profiting from gamer nostalgia.

In some cases, it works pretty well. Torchlight, for example, is a lot of fun and easy enough to play -- as evidenced by the success of the game. The fact that it was really nothing new didn't stop us from having a lot of fun with it. The tales of an online version tantalize us, but wouldn't it be nice if we could play a Diablo-esque game that truly offers MMO benefits?

It's possible that we can with Fortune Online. I was asked to spend some time with the beta to see how it's going. Is it really a good choice for fans of top-down dungeon grinding? Click past the cut to see what I thought.

Gallery: Fortune Online

Continue reading First Impressions: Fortune Online

MassivelyFirst Impressions: Fortune Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beau-hindmanBrowserBrowser-basedCash-shopDiabloDiablo-cloneF2pFeaturedFlash-basedFortune-onlineFree-to-playFreemiumFtpGalleryGazillionGazillion-entertainmentNetdevilScreenshotsFri, 18 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe invites players to battle for Nimbus Station]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/lego-universe-invites-players-to-battle-for-nimbus-station/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/lego-universe-invites-players-to-battle-for-nimbus-station/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/lego-universe-invites-players-to-battle-for-nimbus-station/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Grab three of your buddies, gear up, and get ready to travel through time to save the LEGO Universe (or at least, Nimbus Station). Starting on February 23rd, NetDevil and the LEGO Group are inviting groups of four players to journey backwards to battle the evil Maelstrom in a thrilling confrontation to decide Nimbus Station's fate.

You'll need to find Wenn Wuzzit, a Venture League time traveler who has taken up residence in the present-day Nimbus Station. His time-twister contraption serves as your personal way-back machine and as a gateway to epic battles vs. 30 waves of enemies and bosses.

In addition to the Nimbus Station shenanigans, LEGO Universe is releasing new build missions and achievements tied to players' Property Worlds. Four new dailies and 12 new achievements are on tap, with rewards that include faction tokens, Mega Brick booster packs, and new Doom Star and Behavior Model sets. Sound exciting? Check out all the details via the new trailer after the cut.

Continue reading LEGO Universe invites players to battle for Nimbus Station

MassivelyLEGO Universe invites players to battle for Nimbus Station originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FamilyKidsLegoLego-groupLego-universeMaelstromNetdevilNew-achievementsNew-daily-questsNimbusNimbus-stationTime-machineTime-travelTrailerVideoFri, 18 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gazillion and Netdevil's Fortune Online closed beta mystery]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/gazillion-and-netdevils-fortune-online-closed-beta-mystery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/gazillion-and-netdevils-fortune-online-closed-beta-mystery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/gazillion-and-netdevils-fortune-online-closed-beta-mystery/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One of the things we love to do here at Massively is to point you to interesting MMO games on the horizon -- especially when it comes to signing up for beta testing! We figure since nerds of a feather flock together, you'd probably enjoy finding out about new games just as much as we do. That's why we admit being to a bit flummoxed by this one. You see, Gazillion Entertainment and Netdevil have just launched the website for their new browser-based game, Fortune Online, which currently offers only a login page or a sign-up for a closed beta spot. However, since you need a code to sign up, you can't currently get further into the site than this page, leaving us to look at its shiny graphics and wonder... what gaming goodness lies beneath?

Thankfully, Gazillion Entertainment sent us a pile of screenshots and a video to give us an idea of what the game will be like. Created to play in "any browser released in this century," Fortune Online is a lush, isometric, Diablo-esque action game offering the ability to play with friends in a persistent world. Even more interesting is that the game is flash-based, which will spare us from enormous downloads and give players the ability to jump in from just about any computer they can get access to. The game is also designed to allow ease in inviting friends to play with you. To top it all off? Fortune Online will be free-to-play! So while we wait for open beta, check out the gallery of screenshots below and the action-packed video behind the break! Or, you know, you can go look at the shiny site and click expectantly on the buttons like we did.

Gallery: Fortune Online

Continue reading Gazillion and Netdevil's Fortune Online closed beta mystery

MassivelyGazillion and Netdevil's Fortune Online closed beta mystery originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrowser-basedclosed-betaf2pflashflash-basedfortune-onlinefree-to-playfreemiumgazilliongazillion-entertainmentnetdevilsnarkWed, 02 Feb 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe unveils newest zone for flipping out and killing people]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/lego-universe-unveils-newest-zone-for-flipping-out-and-killing-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/lego-universe-unveils-newest-zone-for-flipping-out-and-killing-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/lego-universe-unveils-newest-zone-for-flipping-out-and-killing-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The LEGO brand is nothing if not a universe of heterogeneity -- race cars, aquatic explorers, space police, and even Batman have long existed side-by-side. The newest kid on the metaphorical block is the just-begun Ninjago line, and it's being celebrated in LEGO Universe with the addition of the newest zone, Crux Prime. But the zone has more to offer than just a cavalcade of ninja, with brand-new gear, weapons, and decals for players to unlock as they progress through the zone's new content.

Players will be tasked with finding the long-lost Sensei Wu amid the ruins of the Ninjago Monastery to learn the powerful skill known as Spinjitzu. They'll need it, too, with Maelstrom Skeletons attempting to steal the beacon of Imagination from the tower in Crux Prime. With over 100 new missions for players to undertake and an ongoing story that promises to unfold over time, LEGO Universe players should find plenty to like about Crux Prime. Take a sneak peek at the zone in the gallery below as well as the trailer past the cut.

Gallery: LEGO Universe Crux Prime gallery

Continue reading LEGO Universe unveils newest zone for flipping out and killing people

MassivelyLEGO Universe unveils newest zone for flipping out and killing people originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crux-primegalleriesgallerygazillionlegolego-brickslego-universenetdevilnew-contentnew-gearnew-missionsnew-questsnew-zoneninjaninjaspreviewscreenshotstrailervideovideoszoneTue, 11 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe hosting a race contest for the New Year weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/01/lego-universe-hosting-a-race-contest-for-the-new-year-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/01/lego-universe-hosting-a-race-contest-for-the-new-year-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/01/lego-universe-hosting-a-race-contest-for-the-new-year-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you or your favorite youngster has been enjoying LEGO Universe, this weekend would be an especially good time to play, not only because it's a holiday weekend with plenty of free time for everyone, but because a special contest is being held in the game up through January 2nd. Twenty winners on the Space Blizzard Race Track will start the new year with prizes in-game, and the luckiest three winners will be driving away with an entire prize pack of LEGO World Racers sets.

To qualify, players must complete all three races on the track before the end of Sunday, January 2nd. The time at which the contest ends varies by the local time of each server. The setters of the top 20 times will be rewarded with prizes, with a full giftset going to the top 10 racers over the two-day period. LEGO Universe players still have enough time to get onto the track and get to racing, so go ahead and see what you can accomplish.

MassivelyLEGO Universe hosting a race contest for the New Year weekend originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestfamily-gamesgazillionkidslegolego-brickslego-prizeslego-setslego-universenetdevilnewsraceracersracingSat, 01 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe content keeps building toward the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/lego-universe-content-keeps-building-toward-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/lego-universe-content-keeps-building-toward-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/lego-universe-content-keeps-building-toward-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

With nothing stopping players save for what their imagination can come up with, the worlds of LEGO Universe have been exploding with content since launch. As a matter of fact, in the last month the moderation team has approved over 86,000 different player-created spaces that offer tons of unique and interesting LEGO Universe content so it can be shared with other players in the game. Add to that Netdevil's push for new content including the Frostfell holiday area, as well as special LEGO World Builder League zones, and there's quite a bit of new content in the game since launch.

According to information from the LEGO Group and Netdevil, the plans for 2011 are even more ambitious. Future content updates will offer LEGO Unvierse players the chance to interact with the LEGO factional leaders and further help push the maelstrom forces back -- unlocking new worlds and storylines in the process. The other interesting thing of note is the plan to add an all-new LEGO IP into LEGO Universe in 2011. In the meantime, check out the new screenshots and video offering a look at some of the myriad creations players are already enjoying in-game.

Gallery: LEGO Universe Main Gallery

Continue reading LEGO Universe content keeps building toward the future

MassivelyLEGO Universe content keeps building toward the future originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gazilliongazillion-entertainmentlegolego-companylego-groupLEGO-Universenetdevilnew-areanew-contentnew-creationsscreenshotscreenshotsuser-created-contentuser-generated-contentvideoMon, 20 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Codemasters files suit over Jumpgate Evolution delays]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/codemasters-files-suit-over-jumpgate-evolution-delays/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/codemasters-files-suit-over-jumpgate-evolution-delays/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/codemasters-files-suit-over-jumpgate-evolution-delays/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We have all been waiting for Jumpgate Evolution for quite some time, but perhaps no one quite as much as Codemasters. As a matter of fact, the company is so tired of waiting on the game to come out that it's decided to file a civil complaint against Netdevil and its parent company Gazillion Entertainment for the delays in publishing the eagerly anticipated sci-fi space shooter.

While the announcement on Codemasters' official Jumpgate Evolution site doesn't offer anything beyond the generic "yes, we did this, here's what court we filed it in, no other comment at this time" statement, the court document itself makes for interesting (if dry) reading. Essentially, Codemasters charges that Netdevil failed to meet contractual guidelines, which called for the studio to ship the game by February 24th, 2009. During that time, Codemasters paid almost 1.4 million USD to Netdevil to help underwrite the game's development and for "art assets." Codemasters is also seeking compensation due to setting up servers, website, community team, etc. for the European version of Jumpgate Evolution. Ultimately, it boils down to a pretty standard breach of contract that offers Codemasters' share of interest back to Netdevil and Gazillion in return for all monies invested in the project to date. Whether or not this brouhaha will cause any changes to the timetable for Jumpgate Evolution will remain to be seen. We'll keep an eye out as the case progresses.

[Thanks, Merketh!]

MassivelyCodemasters files suit over Jumpgate Evolution delays originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breach-of-contractCodemasterscodemasters-onlinegazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionlawsuitnetdevilMon, 06 Dec 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Frostburgh holiday comet headed for LEGO Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/frostburgh-holiday-comet-headed-for-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/frostburgh-holiday-comet-headed-for-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/frostburgh-holiday-comet-headed-for-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In the mood for a snowy throwdown? Netdevil and Gazilion have just the thing for you LEGO Universe players -- an entirely new wintry wonderland named Frostburgh! The new area is actually situated on an icy comet that will open up on November 30th, offering players a whole new area to explore in honor of LEGO Universe's winter holiday, Frostivus. In fact, there will be a festive new mission every day for the entire month that Frostburgh will be orbiting near Nimbus Station, as well as all new holiday NPCs to meet with.

Aside from the new holiday quests, players will additionally have the chance to get into snowball fights, build gingerbread houses, open presents, pick up fun wintry stuff for their minifigs, and tame new reindeer pets. Additionally, the Vertigo Loop racetrack is in for a snowy storm of its own: Icy road conditions and evil snowmen are on the forecast, which will create new challenges for racers. For those who manage to make it through the hazardous road conditions, new achievements and special Frostivus cars await!

As a preview of the chilly LEGO Universe fun that kicks offt next week, we've gathered up a handful of screenshots in the gallery below, or you can check out the Frostburgh trailer after the break!

Gallery: LEGO Universe Main Gallery

Continue reading Frostburgh holiday comet headed for LEGO Universe

MassivelyFrostburgh holiday comet headed for LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frostburghfrostivusgallerygazilliongazillion-entertainmentholiday-2010LEGOLEGO-Universelego-universe-mmonetdevilscreenshotstrailervideoTue, 23 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe publishes new World Build League zones]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/lego-universe-publishes-new-world-build-league-zones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/lego-universe-publishes-new-world-build-league-zones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/lego-universe-publishes-new-world-build-league-zones/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


LEGO Universe hasn't been out that long (it launched on October 26th to be exact), but NetDevil and the LEGO Group are already expanding the family-friendly MMO with three new zones developed by the World Build League. The WBL, formerly known as LEGO Universe Partners, is a group of LEGO fans from around the world who have partnered with NetDevil to create professional-quality player content. To access the new content, travel to Starbase 3001, jump on the launch pad, and select the new area of your choice. DeepFreeze, MoonBase, and Portabello await.

As you might expect, DeepFreeze is a winter-themed zone where you can build a snowman or ride a Zamboni. MoonBase is designed to delight your inner sci-fi geek, as the low gravity atmosphere lets you high-jump to your heart's content while you're keeping a wary eye out for alien encounters. Portabello brings a fantasy feel to the game complete with dragon quest-givers and other genre staples.

Check out the video after the break, and hit up the official website for more details.

Continue reading LEGO Universe publishes new World Build League zones

MassivelyLEGO Universe publishes new World Build League zones originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DeepFreezedragon-brothersgazilliongazillion-entertainmentLEGOLEGO-UniverseLegosMoonBasenetdevilnew-contentnew-zonesplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentPortabelloquestsworld-build-leagueMon, 15 Nov 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at LEGO Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

Most kids who play video games have at least seen one from the LEGO franchise. There are a ton of them -- enough, in fact, for a whole page listing them. They're fun games; I'll bet you've played at least one of them, at least in bits and pieces in a demo somewhere. After all, who doesn't love LEGOs?

Still, there was a decided "ho-hum" reaction among my team of young playtesters when I announced we were going to test the ropes of the brand new LEGO Universe MMO. Oh sure, they were willing enough, but it seemed there was always something shinier and more appealing to play on any given day than the game about good ol' LEGOs.

Until they played LEGO Universe -- and had a (brick-)smashing good time.

Gallery: First Impressions: LEGO Universe

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at LEGO Universe

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childrenfamilyfamily-gamingfeaturedkid-friendlykidslegolego-universelegosmmo-familynet-devilnetdevilparental-controlsparentsparents-guideparents-guide-to-kids-and-family-gamingryan-seaburysubscriptionwarner-brothers-interactiveTue, 02 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The pain and suffering of MMO shutdowns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/the-pain-and-suffering-of-mmo-shutdowns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/the-pain-and-suffering-of-mmo-shutdowns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/29/the-pain-and-suffering-of-mmo-shutdowns/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Like life itself, the MMO industry doesn't often seem fair -- promising games can die premature deaths while creaky antiques continue to chug along just fine. When an MMO like APB or Tabula Rasa announces that it's closing its doors after only a couple years (or months), the first reaction is usually to ask, "What in Sam Hill happened and why are they doing this to me?" Yet what isn't always considered is the emotional fallout on behalf of the devs.

Over at Kotaku, Michael Fahey examined the fallout when MMOs are shuttered prematurely, using the examples of Auto Assault and The Matrix Online as case studies. NetDevil spent four years developing the former, which lasted a mere fraction of that time -- 16 months -- as a live game. Ryan Seabury testifies to the pain that this causes for a dev team: "I won't lie, it hurts like hell still over four years later... Naturally, if a universe like Auto Assault that you sort of mentally attach to over multiple years suddenly ceases to exist, it's like a part of you dies." He personally points to NCsoft as the reason for Auto Assault's closure, stating that the game might still be in operation if it wasn't for the publisher's lack of faith.

On the flip side, The Matrix Online had a longer run and plenty of time to prepare for the end once word was passed down. Then-Community Manager Daniel Myers says that the decision was a matter of dollars and sense. Still, Myers admits that it continues to affect him: "There are still days that I wish I could log in and see the Megacity again. I don't know [if] that will ever completely stop. I kind of hope it doesn't."

MassivelyThe pain and suffering of MMO shutdowns originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbauto-assaultcanceleddaniel-myerskotakumegacitymmo-closingsncsoftnetdevilryan-seaburysera-lives-in-the-matrixshutdownsoetabula-rasathe-matrix-onlinewho-is-sam-hillFri, 29 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe launch day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lego-universe-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lego-universe-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lego-universe-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Many of us at Massively have been looking forward to the launch of LEGO Universe, and we're pretty sure a lot of you have too. Most of us never really outgrow LEGO bricks, so translating them into an MMO format seems like a recipe for fun.

The months leading up to today's launch have been full of opportunities to check out the game -- we took multiple trips into the world of LEGO Universe to check out different areas and report on what we found. In between were interviews, some awards, and an avalanche of images and trailers.

Follow along after the jump for the highlights of the past months, from the launch date announcement to the heaps of just-before-launch-day goodies!

Continue reading LEGO Universe launch day roundup

MassivelyLEGO Universe launch day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualfamilygazilliongazillion-entertainmentkidslaunchlaunch-daylaunch-day-round-upLEGOLEGO-bricksLEGO-Universenetdevilround-upTue, 26 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe releases lots of launch goodies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/lego-universe-releases-lots-of-launch-goodies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/lego-universe-releases-lots-of-launch-goodies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/22/lego-universe-releases-lots-of-launch-goodies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The doors to the LEGO Universe have been thrown open in the EU as of today, where LEGO maniacs are starting their own journey into the lands that NetDevil created. Meanwhile, those in North America who didn't get in on the Founder's pre-order must continue to wait for the launch on Tuesday, October 26th. But have no fear, Massively readers. If you're looking for more information on the game beyond the First Impressions piece we published yesterday (and the two smaller impression pieces on the Gnarled Forest and Forbidden Valley prior), then we've got you covered.

Indeed, NetDevil sent us a veritable deluge of new stuff, including trailers, a literal "making the DVD" video, the opening cinematic (voiced by Sir Patrick Stewart, even), and a plethora of screenshots -- you know, in case the 131 screenshots we took for our First Impressions weren't enough. For those awaiting their copy of the game, this should help pass the time a bit. You'll find all the shiny LEGO Universe video newness tucked behind the break, and the bricktastic gallery below.

Gallery: LEGO Universe Main Gallery

Continue reading LEGO Universe releases lots of launch goodies

MassivelyLEGO Universe releases lots of launch goodies originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gazilliongazillion-entertainmentlegolego-universenetdevilFri, 22 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: LEGO Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/first-impressions-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/first-impressions-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/21/first-impressions-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Playing. It's one of our earliest lessons from childhood, and one that we as gamers hold on to with gusto. Let's face it -- in just about every gamer out there is a kid who, at least in some small way, refuses to grow up entirely. We love to play. It's that love, coupled with childhood memories of clicking tons of brightly colored LEGO blocks together, that has made the idea of LEGO videogames a huge hit. Now have a new contender to the LEGO gaming play-space: LEGO Universe. It's a game that has the potential to offer all the things we as MMO gamers would love: an open-ended world, a great known IP that reminds us of youthful days, and the social aspects many of us enjoy.

Aside from this, LEGO Universe also offers many things that parents of young gamers will value. As someone I spoke with recently asked: "What's stopping people from building offensive adult-themed content with LEGO bricks that my child might see?" The answer lies in LEGO Universe's moderation team, known as the Mythran (a shadowy group actually written into the lore of the game), which personally reviews personal free-build areas for compliance. The Mythrans also oversee character and pet names. When combined with a speedchat and whitelisted word chat system, it makes for a very workable solution to keeping kids safe online.

Curious about a look into LEGO Universe? Join me behind the break as I take a more detailed look at this colorful game, and be sure to check out the extensive gallery below!

Gallery: First Impressions: LEGO Universe

Continue reading First Impressions: LEGO Universe

MassivelyFirst Impressions: LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualchildrenfamiliesfamilyfamily-gamesfeaturedfirst-impressionsgame-mechanicsgazilliongazillion-entertainmentkidslegolego-universeLUmechanicsMinigamesnetdevilopinionopinion-pieceoverviewparentspreviewThu, 21 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Oh my! A Jumpgate Evolution leak -- not really]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/oh-my-a-jumpgate-evolution-leak-not-really/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/oh-my-a-jumpgate-evolution-leak-not-really/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/oh-my-a-jumpgate-evolution-leak-not-really/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Earlier today an unannounced video slipped onto YouTube claiming to be a "Jumpgate Evolution Play Test." The JGE forums lit up with speculation as to the source of the video, yet the true source was not even known to the JGE forum moderator, Alpha. In the thread regarding the leak, Alpha said, "I don't know where this video is from (or how old the footage is, or indeed anything about it), but really, given that the team is really small right now, the devs are going to know who shot that footage."

She was correct, because just a few hours later, OhSnap (Kara Kroupa, Marketing Coordinator at NetDevil) replied with a detailed explanation of what exactly happened. According to OhSnap, the video "showed up on youtube first because I asked the emissaries to spread it around before I made the video announcement. With all intention to explain the details here later." Unfortunately, Alpha had not read the information regarding the video when she first replied to the post, so she treated it as a breach of the NDA. Fortunately, there was no real issue, and no damage was done save to Alpha's keyboard, which now has OJ sprayed on it from her laughing at finding out the "leak" was intentional.

Now, after months of quiet, we have some Jumpgate Evolution footage! Take a look after the break at this "leaked" real footage of gameplay of the citadel.

[Thank you, Notturno for the link to the video]

Continue reading Oh my! A Jumpgate Evolution leak -- not really

MassivelyOh my! A Jumpgate Evolution leak -- not really originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gazilliongazillion-entertainmentJGEjumpgatejumpgate-evolutionKara-Kroupaleakleakedleaked-videoleaksnetdevilOhSnapvideoWed, 20 Oct 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution still alive and kicking]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/jumpgate-evolution-still-alive-and-kicking/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/jumpgate-evolution-still-alive-and-kicking/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/jumpgate-evolution-still-alive-and-kicking/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Jumpgate Evolution has been flying a bit under the radar since E3 2010, but we're happy to report that the space-based action MMO is still seeing active development. The recent forum upgrade, coupled with a producer update that outlines what the NetDevil folks are currently working on, has conspired to give us a bit of hope that we might be barreling through hyperspace and setting spaceships afire sooner rather than later.

In the post on the official boards, executive producer Lance Robertson touches on everything from the patcher and the live support team to PvP, the economy, and compatibility testing as ongoing areas of concentration. The details are a bit sparser than we'd like, but we'll keep our scanners peeled for more Jumpgate Evolution news as it happens.

MassivelyJumpgate Evolution still alive and kicking originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-updateeconomygazilliongazillion-entertainmentjumpgatejumpgate-evolutionlance-robertsonnet-devilnetdevilpatcherpvpspacetestingThu, 07 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe lets pre-order customers start extra early]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/lego-universe-lets-pre-order-customers-start-extra-early/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/lego-universe-lets-pre-order-customers-start-extra-early/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/lego-universe-lets-pre-order-customers-start-extra-early/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Anticipation for LEGO Universe has been building ever since the foundation was laid for the game. Considering the way in which players have assembled for the game's release, it seems no surprise that the team behind the game has put together something special for launch. We had known that there would be an early access event to allow players to start piecing things together, but now it seems that an even earlier release is being opened up for "Founders" to start playing -- one that starts this weekend.

Starting at 10:08 a.m. EDT on Friday, October 8th, the pre-order customers known in community terms as "Founders" will be able to log in and start playing the game, allowing them full access over the weekend. If you can't wait until then and still haven't pre-ordered, however, you aren't out of luck yet, as the official announcement encourages players to visit the nearest LEGO store to pre-order the game and get a special mini-figure. LEGO Universe players will have to keep their eyes peeled for further instructions, as the end of the week is quickly approaching, and it promises quite a set of experiences.

MassivelyLEGO Universe lets pre-order customers start extra early originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coming-launchesearly-accessearly-releasegazilliongazillion-entertainmentlaunch-eventlauncheslegolego-mmolego-universelego-universe-onlinenetdevilnewsnews-itempunsreal-world-eventupcoming-eventsWed, 06 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jumpgate Evolution forums now live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/03/new-jumpgate-evolution-forums-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/03/new-jumpgate-evolution-forums-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/03/new-jumpgate-evolution-forums-now-live/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jumpgate Evolution forum members will be happy to hear that the old JGE forums are a thing of the past.

The new forums went online today, replacing the old ones that a NetDevil staffer referred to as "broken in many ways." As with many new sites, this one still has a few bugs to be fixed and additions to be made, so the News and Announcements forum contains a welcome post with a list of known issues.

That post explains how players can bring their login information to the new forum and gives a list of features that are still in the completion process. The forums and subforums are all functional -- though missing a few bells and whistles -- so check them out for yourself!

MassivelyNew Jumpgate Evolution forums now live originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>forumforumsgazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilSun, 03 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe creative director on building a LEGO MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/27/lego-universe-creative-director-on-building-a-lego-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/27/lego-universe-creative-director-on-building-a-lego-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/27/lego-universe-creative-director-on-building-a-lego-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The thought of a LEGO MMO seems like a pretty simple one. LEGO bricks themselves are a pretty basic concept, but that doesn't translate to quick and easy development according to Ryan Seabury.

Ryan is the creative director of LEGO Universe, and he gave Gamasutra some insight into how things work behind the scenes. From the first days of planning to the current state of beta testing, the interview is one of the most in-depth discussions of the game that we've seen so far. Ryan explores the possibility of LEGO Universe on consoles, talks about the game's target audience, LEGO's insistence on keeping the in-game bricks true to the brand and even NetDevil's plans for keeping player-crafted structures rated PG.

Check out Gamasutra for the full interview.

MassivelyLEGO Universe creative director on building a LEGO MMO originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamasutrainterviewlegolego-universenetdevilryan-seaburyMon, 27 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: LEGO Universe's Forbidden Valley]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/first-impressions-lego-universes-forbidden-valley/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/first-impressions-lego-universes-forbidden-valley/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/first-impressions-lego-universes-forbidden-valley/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Welcome back to our series of First Impressions on the upcoming title, LEGO Universe. Before we get started, I must note very clearly that the experiences chronicled here are in the current beta client of the game. The reason for this note is that while my previous experience in the Gnarled Forest was largely bug-free and polished, the Forbidden Valley zone is a microcosm of the bugs that still reside within the game currently. But even with the bugs clearly showing themselves, the zone also has some of the more ambitious art, design, and amusing (if not punnier) quest writing currently in the game.

Curious about how this new area in LEGO Universe stacks up? Join me after the break as we navigate the dangerous lands of the Forbidden Valley.

Gallery: First Impressions: LEGO Universe

Continue reading First Impressions: LEGO Universe's Forbidden Valley

MassivelyFirst Impressions: LEGO Universe's Forbidden Valley originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betafamilyfeaturedfirst-impressionsforbidden-valleygallerygazilliongazillion-entertainmentgnarled-forestkidslegolego-mmolego-universenetdevilpreviewscreenshotsMon, 13 Sep 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Details on event zones in Jumpgate Evolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/details-on-event-zones-in-jumpgate-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/details-on-event-zones-in-jumpgate-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/details-on-event-zones-in-jumpgate-evolution/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

There's something about the massive span of space that lends itself to large-scale PvP, and Jumpgate Evolution is certainly heading down the road to having big and meaningful faction battles. This is the core of the game's Event Sectors, hotspots of activity between both players and NPCs in which everyone takes part in a truly epic struggle. In a recent diary on MMORPG.com, Joe Grubb explains the design philosophy behind the sectors and how they're shaping up as the game continues in development.

Grubb explains that one of the first goals the team had with these sectors was that they had to feel meaningful in context -- rather than just featuring good gameplay, it had to make sense why the battle was taking place from a lore standpoint. He goes on to explain how the team began testing and then revising the way content was set up to improve the feel of immersion and realism in each given sector. Take a look at the full diary for a preview of what promises to be one of the most interesting features in Jumpgate Evolution -- and really, who doesn't like epic space battles?

MassivelyDetails on event zones in Jumpgate Evolution originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developmentdevelopment-diariesevent-sectorsimmersionjoe-grubbjumpgatejumpgate-evolutionlarge-scale-pvpnetdevilpvpscience-fictionspacespace-battlesWed, 01 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New LEGO Universe trailer: "Bring your world to life" [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/new-lego-universe-trailer-bring-your-world-to-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/new-lego-universe-trailer-bring-your-world-to-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/new-lego-universe-trailer-bring-your-world-to-life/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The newest trailer from the team at LEGO Universe gives a closer look at what most players consider to be the core of the game: building and customization.

Developers Ryan Seabury, Mads Purup, Randall Furino, and Scott Brown lead us through the different building models that offer varying amounts of freedom and creativity, along with some interesting LEGO twists on character customization. Among other things, the game allows you to decide how you want to die. Do you want to fall apart into a pile of LEGO bricks, or something else?

Want to see all the options for yourself? Follow along after the jump for the newest look at LEGO Universe!

[Editor's note: At the request of NetDevil, we've replaced the European version of the trailer with the US version. Enjoy!]

Continue reading New LEGO Universe trailer: "Bring your world to life" [Updated]

MassivelyNew LEGO Universe trailer: "Bring your world to life" [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>customizationgamescomgamescom-2010LEGOlego-mmolego-universemads-purupmovienetdevilrandall-furinoryan-seaburyscott-browntrailervideoTue, 17 Aug 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New LEGO Universe trailer highlights building]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/new-lego-universe-trailer-highlights-building/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/new-lego-universe-trailer-highlights-building/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/02/new-lego-universe-trailer-highlights-building/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With the LEGO Universe release date just a few months away, information on the game is coming at a faster pace. We've gotten game news on everything from pets to factions to character creation, and this latest LEGO Universe trailer takes us back to the basics with a look at building.

The video illustrates some truly impressive building examples as an enthusiastic character sets out to impress his friends with a huge castle and courtyard, complete with a dragon. If a medieval castle's not quite your thing, try a frontier-style stockade, or even a farm.

There is also a bit of battle footage, but the central idea is one that LEGO fans are counting on this game to provide: the ability to build whatever your heart desires. Check it out at the LEGO Universe site.

MassivelyNew LEGO Universe trailer highlights building originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildinglegolego-universenetdeviltrailerMon, 02 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: LEGO Universe's Gnarled Forest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/first-impressions-lego-universes-gnarled-forest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/first-impressions-lego-universes-gnarled-forest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/first-impressions-lego-universes-gnarled-forest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Yarr matey, are ye lookin' for more information on NetDevil's upcomin' MMO, LEGO Universe, then we've got a treat for you today! In an interesting move, the team at NetDevil has decided to drop the NDA one zone at a time, thereby allowing us to give you some early impressions of the game while it's still in beta. With that said, I must reinforce that due to the game being in beta, some of this may well change. Nonetheless, the story should still hold true -- and it's a story chock full of pirates, monkeys, bananas and other bizarre things you might expect to find in a place called the Gnarled Forest.

Before we start, I should perhaps explain a bit about the game's known back-story for those who haven't been watching too closely. The idea is that this dark force known as Maelstrom Energy (that's the weird purple glowy funk you see spread throughout these screenshots) has corrupted certain parts of the LEGO universe, and it's your job to help stop it. In the case of the Gnarled Forest, ships full of pirates touched down on the nearby beach and after adventuring into the forest, found large cracks in the ground that contained glowing purple crystals. Being pirates, they figured the glowing purple crystals were probably valuable gems. So, they greedily stuffed them into their pockets and treasure chests, only to wind up witless, mutated minions of this dark force.

Curious? Join me for more on LEGO Universe's Gnarled Forest behind the break, and be sure to check out the screenshots in the gallery below too!

Gallery: First Impressions: LEGO Universe

Continue reading First Impressions: LEGO Universe's Gnarled Forest

MassivelyFirst Impressions: LEGO Universe's Gnarled Forest originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bananabetacollection-questsdeath-penaltyfeaturedfifirst-impressionsgazillion-entertainmentgnarled-forestlegolego-universemaelstrommonkeynetdevilninjaspiratepiratesquick-buildMon, 19 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe unveils new gameplay trailers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/lego-universe-unveils-new-gameplay-trailers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/lego-universe-unveils-new-gameplay-trailers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/lego-universe-unveils-new-gameplay-trailers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

LEGO Universe looked like a fun MMO from the very start -- who doesn't love LEGO bricks? The screenshots, game details, and interviews increased fan interest, but any MMO gamer worth his or her salt is going to want to see some gameplay.

LEGO has obliged us with three new trailer videos: battle, build, and play. The videos are pretty self-explanatory, with the first one detailing the building process which allows you to choose pieces from a menu. The "play" trailer shows fun dancing, jumping, and car-racing action, while the battle trailer provides a bit of hilarity when vanquished foes explode into a little pile of LEGO bricks (that's not new information, but it's never not funny).

Check out all three of the new videos at the LEGO Universe site.

MassivelyLEGO Universe unveils new gameplay trailers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplay-videogazilliongazillion-entertainmentLEGOLEGO-UniversenetdevilvideoWed, 07 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Expanding the LEGO Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-expanding-the-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-expanding-the-lego-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-expanding-the-lego-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While E3 offers a glimpse into the imaginations of many developers, one game stands out as focusing on the imagination and creativity of the user: LEGO Universe. Where else can your mooing chickens randomly attack each other? In fact, creativity and imagination are the focus of this game, literally (imagination is a stat used to power your abilities!). With the game releasing on October 29th, 2010, we spoke with the guys at NetDevil to get a scoop on some of the unique features to look forward to, including customization, safety, levels of building, and their behavior system. Then Creative Director Ryan Seabury treated to an entertaining demonstration.

Build a bridge over the cut for the interview highlights!

Continue reading E3 2010: Expanding the LEGO Universe

MassivelyE3 2010: Expanding the LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2010family-gamingfeaturedinterviewLEGO-Universelego-universe-interviewlego-universe-mmoLegosnetdevilryan-seaburyFri, 18 Jun 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Should Star Trek Online fans fear the competition?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/captains-log-should-star-trek-online-fans-fear-the-competition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/captains-log-should-star-trek-online-fans-fear-the-competition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/captains-log-should-star-trek-online-fans-fear-the-competition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Good afternoon, cadets and admirals. Welcome to this week's edition of Captain's Log, your ever-expanding guide to Star Trek Online. Last time, we discussed some basics of ground combat, and I promised more to come. But I've decided to change course a bit, so we'll cover those next week.

Instead, I thought it might be fun to discuss what's on every Earth nerd's mind right now: E3! The Electronic Entertainment Expo has engines on full impulse this week in Los Angeles, and amid all the grand news we don't care about -- I was counting on the 3DS to not be totally awesome so I wouldn't have to replace my DSiXL! Curses! -- the MMO news is flying fast and furious. With all the news and shiny images of forthcoming space-based MMOs, should fans worry that STO's days are numbered?

Continue reading Captain's Log: Should Star Trek Online fans fear the competition?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Should Star Trek Online fans fear the competition? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticaBigpointBioWarebioware-swtorblack-prophecycaptains-logCCP-Gamescrypticcryptic-studiosdark-millenium-onlinee3e3-2010eve-onlinefeaturedincarnaJGEjge-gamejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilPhilip-Reisbergerreakktor-mediasci-fi-mmost-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlineStar-Warsstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-mmostar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-tortrek-onlineWarhammer-40KThu, 17 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Hands-on with Jumpgate Evolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-hands-on-with-jumpgate-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-hands-on-with-jumpgate-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-hands-on-with-jumpgate-evolution/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

At E3 yesterday, I had the opportunity to sit down and play some Jumpgate Evolution. Yes, I said Jumpgate Evolution: the game we've all feared was going away after announcements of its indefinite development. Interestingly enough, this is a game that many of you have shown great interest in. Is the game still alive? Is it playable? When's it releasing?

Well, luckily for you, most of those questions were answered at E3. Not only is it playable, I spent probably 30 minutes barrel-rolling and dogfighting my way through a handful of tutorial quests. Is it ready for primetime, though? Follow along after the jump to find out my E3 hands-on impressions of the highly-anticipated space action MMO.

Continue reading E3 2010: Hands-on with Jumpgate Evolution

MassivelyE3 2010: Hands-on with Jumpgate Evolution originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010featuredgazilliongazillion-entertainmenthands-onjumpgate-evolutionnetdevilopinionspaceWed, 16 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe starts its countdown to launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/lego-universe-starts-its-countdown-to-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/lego-universe-starts-its-countdown-to-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/lego-universe-starts-its-countdown-to-launch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Traditionally, October is a time for spooks and ghosts, tricks and treats. This year, however, you can add nexus-infused undead pirates, ninjas, robots, and more, as we just got word today that LEGO Universe will be launching to pre-order "Founders" on October 12th, and to everyone else on October 26th -- just in time for Halloween hijinks. We also have news that the game will be available to both PC and Mac players, thanks to a Cider port for the LEGOmaniac Mac-heads in the house.

Along with the update on launch, we've managed to scoop up several new videos that we've tucked behind the break; they run the gamut from cinematic trailer to actual game footage. Furthermore, we've got a gallery chock full of screenshots and bits of concept art from the folks at NetDevil and LEGO for you to check out too.

As if that weren't tempting enough, we have an interview coming up with the minds behind this brick-filled MMO later this week, so be on the lookout for that if you're hungry for even more on LEGO Universe.

Gallery: E3 2010: LEGO Universe

Continue reading LEGO Universe starts its countdown to launch

MassivelyLEGO Universe starts its countdown to launch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept-arte3e3-2010galleryin-game-videolaunchlaunch-datelego-mmoLEGO-universenetdevilscreenshotstrailertrailersvideoWed, 16 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution reveals playable Octavius faction]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/jumpgate-evolution-reveals-playable-octavius-faction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/jumpgate-evolution-reveals-playable-octavius-faction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/jumpgate-evolution-reveals-playable-octavius-faction/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jumpgate Evolution appears to finally be moving forward, as evidenced by the forum post from Lance Robertson, the game's Executive Producer. A new trailer depicting one of three playable factions has surfaced today as well, and our friends at G4TV got the exclusive.

The trailer introduces us to the militaristic Octavius faction. They've been around for at least 200 years, overcoming death, disease and the near-end of the faction, rising "from the depths of despair to the pinnacle of empire." The trailer is an interesting look at a fleet of Octavius ships from construction to deployment, ending with the battle cry, "We are Octavius!"

Follow along after the jump to take a firsthand look.

Continue reading Jumpgate Evolution reveals playable Octavius faction

MassivelyJumpgate Evolution reveals playable Octavius faction originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factionfactionsg4tvjumpgate-evolutionnetdeviloctaviusThu, 10 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Executive Producer of Jumpgate Evolution gives information on game's status]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/executive-producer-of-jumpgate-evolution-gives-information-on-ga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/executive-producer-of-jumpgate-evolution-gives-information-on-ga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/executive-producer-of-jumpgate-evolution-gives-information-on-ga/#commentsFiled under: , ,

After what feels like an endless period of silence from the developers of Jumpgate Evolution, Executive Producer Lance Robertson has delivered a surprisingly detailed forum post on the game's development.

So what's going on over there? Why all the silence and delays? Apparently, those delays are due to the extensive overhaul to the entire game: "...the team made the crucial decision to completely overhaul JGE's game systems, while also refocusing specifically on the game play experience we wanted to make: space warfare on a massive scale." Much of the game was removed completely and replaced to fit the team had in mind.

And the media blackout? "We couldn't discuss game features, because we were no longer sure what would make it into the game and what wouldn't. We couldn't talk about story, because it was being completely rewritten. There was so much that we wanted to share, but things were just at too early of a stage to discuss without the risk of disappointing you, our community. When we announce something, we ought to be as confident as possible that it will stay in the game - although in game development, there are no guarantees."

The full story is an interesting read, as it explains what has been going on with Jumpgate Evolution, and what will be happening from here on out.

MassivelyExecutive Producer of Jumpgate Evolution gives information on game's status originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>JGEjumpgate-evolutionlance-robertsonnetdevilMon, 07 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST