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[The Game Archaeologist: Dark Sun Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/the-game-archaeologist-dark-sun-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/the-game-archaeologist-dark-sun-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/the-game-archaeologist-dark-sun-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Dark Sun Online
Computer RPG players in the late '80s and early '90s were surely familiar with Strategic Simulations, Inc. (SSI) and its now-infamous Gold Box series. The series, so named because of their distinctive gold packaging, ran on a solid engine that helped the company churn out over a dozen titles within a five-year span. From Dungeons & Dragons' Pool of Radiance to Buck Rogers: Countdown to Doomsday, these titles quickly became revered among the gaming community. I personally have very fond memories of playing both Buck Rogers titles, despite not having ever watched the show.

While the Gold Box series has not become as timeless or replayable as late '90s classics like Baldur's Gate and Fallout, they definitely had a huge impact on the PC scene and helped elevate the CRPG genre. Following the Gold Box engine, SSI went on to produce another engine that it used for a completely new series set in the D&D campaign setting of Dark Sun. Dark Sun: Shattered Lands (1993) and Dark Sun: Wake of the Ravager (1994) were both modest hits, and when it came time for a third game in the series, SSI decided to make the leap to the then-untested realm of online gaming.

What followed was a wild two-year experiment in MMOs that happened prior to the Ultima Online and EverQuest generation. While ultimately unsuccessful in achieving its potential or gaining a large audience, Dark Sun Online: Crimson Sands made a valiant attempt at achieving the inevitable future of gaming.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: Dark Sun Online

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: Dark Sun Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Al-QadimAndre-VrignaudAOLathasattatt-interchangeBaldurs-GateBuck-Rogersbuck-rogers-countdown-to-doomsdayclassicclassic-mmosclassicsCompuServeCountdown-to-Doomsdaycrimson-sandsdark-sundark-sun-onlinedark-sun-online-crimson-sandsDark-Sun-Shattered-LandsDark-Sun-Wake-of-the-RavagerdnddosDungeons-and-DragonsFalloutfeaturedgame-archaelogistGameStormGEniegold-boxgold-box-enginehackhackinginterchangemudmushNeverwinter-NightsnostalgiaopinionPool-of-Radiancerich-donnellyrick-donnellyshattered-landsssistrategic-simulations-inctenthe-game-archaeologistThe-Shadow-of-YserbiusthunderscapeTotal-Entertainment-Networkwake-of-the-ravagerwindowswindows-95Word-of-Aden-ThunderscapeTue, 15 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

DDO Menace of the Underdark
Speaking of Guinness World Records for video games, I wonder whether Dungeons and Dragons Online would be eligible for "Longest time between game release and launch of its first expansion?" Six years may just be the longest we've ever witnessed, as DDO released in 2006, and it wasn't until 2012 that Menace of the Underdark was revealed. The good news is that come June 25th, the drought will be over.

We asked Turbine why now seemed like a good time for an expansion. The devs said that Atari had made some noise back in the day about one, but it never came to fruition. With the success of free-to-play, Turbine wanted to see whether the expansion model was still viable, so Lord of the Rings Online was chosen as a test subject. When Rise of Isengard became the best-selling expansion for the company, the company felt secure letting DDO have a chance, although there was quite a lot of wrangling with Wizards of the Coast about the details and permissions.

Record or no, it's an exciting event for DDO players, and the today, Turbine has announced the two biggest details for the expansion's schedule. The first is that Menace of the Underdark has a release date, and the second is the opening of pre-orders. Read on to get all of the juicy infos.

Continue reading DDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders

MassivelyDDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baldurs-gateddodruiddruid-classdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronepic-destiniesf2pfeaturedFernando-Paizforgotten-realmsfree-to-playmenace-of-the-underdarkneverwinter-nightspre-orderpreorderra-Salvatoretome-of-learningturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-12update-13update-14wizards-of-the-coastwotcMon, 27 Feb 2012 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Storybricks: Opening the Pandora's box of MMO design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/storybricks-opening-the-pandoras-box-of-mmo-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/storybricks-opening-the-pandoras-box-of-mmo-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/storybricks-opening-the-pandoras-box-of-mmo-design/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Storybricks pre-alpha
"I could make a better game than this!"

At one point or another, we've all said this, usually in disgust after we've become fed up with another tired MMO trope or lazy quest design. Unfortunately, most of us don't have the good fortune to work for a major game studio and thus will never see our brilliant ideas come to fruition.

Except that this may no longer be true. Enter Namaste Entertainment's Storybricks, a bold and intriguing concept aimed at putting game design in the hands of Joe and Jane Gamer. Namaste is a small startup that began in 2010 when its team members got tired of derivative titles and mechanics in the industry. Storybricks is the team's first project, and while it's still in its infancy, it's already started to capture the imaginations -- and excitement -- of gamers everywhere.

At this past week's GenCon, I caught up with Brian "Psychochild" Green and the rest of the Namaste crew as they publicly demoed Storybricks to the gaming crowd. Hit the jump as we look at why this program may just be the answer to a question you've never fully asked.

Continue reading Storybricks: Opening the Pandora's box of MMO design

MassivelyStorybricks: Opening the Pandora's box of MMO design originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aibrian-greencity-of-heroescohfeaturedgencongencon-2011gencon-indyinterviewinterviewskelly-heckmanlegoliz-danforthnamastenamaste-entertainmentneverwinter-nightsnpcnwnpgcplayer-created-contentplayer-generated-contentpsychochildsecond-lifestar-trek-25th-anniversarystar-trek-onlinestostorybrickswastelandMon, 08 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist sees The Shadow of Yserbius]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/the-game-archaeologist-sees-the-shadow-of-yserbius/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/the-game-archaeologist-sees-the-shadow-of-yserbius/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/the-game-archaeologist-sees-the-shadow-of-yserbius/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Really, I blame my parents for not being filthy rich. If they were, we could've afforded the $130/month unlimited subscription fee to the ImagiNation Network (INN) back in the early '90s. Just think! All of the gaming, the socializing, and the roleplaying that you could handle -- for such a low price! I mean, sure, there were hourly options, but who'd want to play for a mere five hours a month?

So instead of becoming part of a growing online community, I had to be content with my SNES and copy of Chrono Trigger -- hard times, indeed. Sometimes I think how my life would've been different if we had subscribed to Sierra's colorful online world, because I would've had a chance to get in on one of the first graphical MMOs: The Shadow of Yserbius.

It was a step forward in graphic quality from the text-only MUDs of the day but perhaps a step backward from the complexity that many MUDs brought to the table. Still, for a few shining years, it entranced thousands who lined up to delve dungeons deeply alongside their friends (and a couple of complete strangers with odor disorders).

Today we're going to take a quick peek at one of the first MMOs that stepped into the realm of lush color and animations and see what made The Shadow of Yserbius so enduring.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist sees The Shadow of Yserbius

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist sees The Shadow of Yserbius originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.5-d3-daolbarbarianchrono-triggerclericdeath-penaltydnddungeondungeon-crawlerdungeon-crawlingdungeons-and-dragonselvesEn-li-Kilfeaturedgremlinsguildguild-hallhalflingsimagination-networkinnknightmagemudmudsneverwinter-nightsorcsshadow-of-yserbiussierrasierra-onlinesnesThe-Fates-of-Twinionthe-ruins-of-cawdorthe-shadow-of-yserbiusthieftrollswarriorwizardyserbiusTue, 31 May 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the year that was 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-year-that-was-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-year-that-was-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-year-that-was-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Earlier in the year when I started this column, I realized two things. First, I'd be giving myself as much as any of you a crash-course education in older MMOs, particularly with some of the more fringe titles that I'd never really explored up to this point. And second, it would be a challenge to find the right mix of elements to do these MMOs justice.

So before we look back at all the games this column covered in 2010, I'd like to ask each and every one of you to take a minute and drop a comment about what you'd like to see The Game Archaeologist do next. What titles would you love to see honored in 2011? What features are the most interesting to you -- dev interviews, player interviews, history overviews, photo galleries, first impression playthroughs, or links to community fansites and blogs? What could I add to make The Game Archaeologist even better?

I also want to take a minute to thank the readers, players and developers who have contributed to this column so far. While there are MMOs that get a lion's share of the press these days, we at Massively are committed to spotlighting as many of these games as possible, particularly if there's a passionate community and dev team behind them. I've loved hearing your stories and hope that in passing them along, perhaps we've opened a door or two to games that you might've never considered before.

So let's hop in our hot air balloon and soar over the year that was 2010!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the year that was 2010

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the year that was 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Dec 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Anarchy-Onlineaoaolbbsbulletin-board-systemdaocdark-age-of-camelotdnddoor-gamesdungeons-and-dragonseaea-mythicend-of-the-year-2010featuredfuncomgary-gygaxjagexjickkingdom-of-loathingmark-jacobsmr-skullheadmythicMythic-Entertainmentneverwinter-nightsnew-game-enhancementsngepvprichard-garriottrunescapesoestar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgthe-game-archaeologistthe-simsthe-sims-onlinetsoturbineultima-onlineuowinter-holiday-2010wookiee-loveTue, 28 Dec 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Nights of Old Winter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-nights-of-old-winter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-nights-of-old-winter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-nights-of-old-winter/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Here's a question for you: How much do you really, really have to love a game to pay $8.00 an hour to play it? Considering how much we tend to whine about a flat $15/month fee, I'm guessing the answer is, "Only if it loved me long time."

And yet, in 1991 this wasn't considered crazy extortionist practices -- it was dubbed "Being a pioneer." While online RPGs were nothing new by then, nobody had tackled the jump from text-based RPGs (MUDs and BBS doors) to graphical games due to the technology (limited modem speeds and access) and funding involved. It took the efforts of a Superfriends-style team to make this happen with Neverwinter Nights: Stormfront Studios developed the game, TSR provided the Dungeons & Dragons license, SSI published it under its Gold Box series, and Aol handled the online operations.

Thus, 19 years ago -- six years before Ultima Online and 13 before World of Warcraft -- the first multiplayer graphical RPG went online and helped forge a path that would lead to where we are today. With only 50 to 500 players per server, Neverwinter Nights may not have been "massively," but it deserves a spot of honor as one of the key ancestors to the modern MMO.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Nights of Old Winter

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Nights of Old Winter originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>america-onlineaolbbsbiowarebuck-rogerscrypticcryptic-studiosdon-daglowdual-classDungeons-and-Dragonsemmy-awardeverquestfeaturedforgotten-realmsgold-boxin-game-eventlord-nashermudmulticlassneverwinter-nightsneverwinter-nights-2neverwinter-nights-aolneverwinter-nights-mmoobsidianObsidian-Entertainmentpool-of-radiancepvppvp-ladderssisteve-casestormfront-studiossuperfriendstabula-rasathe-game-archaeologisttsrultima-onlineworld-of-warcraftTue, 23 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: A chat with Colin Cragg]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-girdle-of-anarchy-a-chat-with-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-girdle-of-anarchy-a-chat-with-co/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-girdle-of-anarchy-a-chat-with-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

When I declared September to be "Anarchy Online month" I had no idea how far it would go. I mean, sure, I expected an outpouring of fond memories from players and perhaps a statue erected in my honor, but for the UN to pass a resolution for a worldwide celebration of Funcom's brainchild is quite above and beyond.

So really, it's been a wild ride thus far. That's what we game archaeologists prepared for when we attended MMO U (go Fightin' N00bs!) and dusted off old copies of Neverwinter Nights. Be flexible, be enthusiastic, and always be ready for an older title to sweep you off your feet -- these are the sage words of my instructors.

Because of this, I didn't find myself tongue-tied when Anarchy Online's Colin Cragg agreed to an interview. I might have blushed and stared at my feet so that I wouldn't become lost in his wizened, sage eyes, but I marched forward nonetheless. So what did AO's head honcho have to say about working on a mature MMO? Click the link and wonder no longer!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: A chat with Colin Cragg

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Girdle of Anarchy: A chat with Colin Cragg originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananarchy-onlineanarchy-online-launchaocolin-craggddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeqeverquestfacebookfarmvillefeaturedfightin-n00bsfuncomgaute-godagerinterviewlaunch-daylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommouneverwinter-nightsRagnar-TornquistshadowlandsTeletubbiesthe-game-archaeologistthe-secret-worldunTue, 21 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring Eberron: Neverwinter nightcaps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/27/exploring-eberron-neverwinter-nightcaps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/27/exploring-eberron-neverwinter-nightcaps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/27/exploring-eberron-neverwinter-nightcaps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Depending on how much stock you put in the rumors or in Cryptic in general, this past week's announcement of a second Dungeons & Dragons MMO -- pardon me, an "OMG" -- either rocked you back on your heels or cooled off your heels. Something to do with heels, at any rate.

In a Daily Grind this past May, I asked readers how they would make another D&D MMO. There were a lot of thoughtful responses, a few instances of keyboard gibberish, and a contingent adamant that the D&D license was locked up in DDO and couldn't be handed out elsewhere. I guess the latter argument is a moot point right now -- obviously, Turbine doesn't have a monopoly on an online D&D -- although its existence brings to mind not just a few questions.

Is the world big enough for two online D&D titles? What does this announcement mean for our beloved DDO? Is Neverwinter positioning itself to be direct competition, or a different entity altogether? Has the Cryptic crew learned its lessons? In my final Exploring Eberron (Rubi returns next week, so you may start doing your happy dance... now), I'm going to answer all of these queries in such a way that your world will forever be rocked. On its heels.

Continue reading Exploring Eberron: Neverwinter nightcaps

MassivelyExploring Eberron: Neverwinter nightcaps originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.5atarichampions-onlinecoco-opcrypticcryptic-studiosddodnddont-be-a-heelDungeons-and-Dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronexploring-eberronf2pfaerunfeaturedforgotten-realmsfourth-editionfree-to-playftpguild-warsjack-emmertlawsuitneverwinterNeverwinter-Nightsneverwinter-nights-2neverwinter-nights-mmoomgplanescapeplayer-generated-contentso-long-and-thanks-for-all-the-fishstar-trek-onlinestothe-return-of-rubiturbineturbine-vs-atariFri, 27 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Jack Emmert speaks (about Neverwinter and a whole bunch of other stuff)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/massively-exclusive-jack-emmert-speaks-about-neverwinter-and-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/massively-exclusive-jack-emmert-speaks-about-neverwinter-and-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/massively-exclusive-jack-emmert-speaks-about-neverwinter-and-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jack Emmert
It seems everyone's got an opinion about the new Neverwinter online RPG recently announced by Cryptic. Whether you're a fan of the venerable Dungeons and Dragons franchise, a veteran of the classic single- and multi-player Neverwinter Nights titles, or just a fan of online games in general, you'll want to check out Massively's exclusive interview with Cryptic Studios COO Jack Emmert.

Our own Sera Brennan sat down to quiz the Cryptic mastermind about everything from the new title, to Cryptic's evolving business model, to some candid insights into the making of both Champions Online and Star Trek Online.

Roll your d20 and advance past the cut for more.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Jack Emmert speaks (about Neverwinter and a whole bunch of other stuff)

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Jack Emmert speaks (about Neverwinter and a whole bunch of other stuff) originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchampionschampions-onlinecity-of-heroesCity-of-VillainsCOHCoVcoxcrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedforgeforge-toolsetinterviewInterviewsjack-emmertneverwinterNeverwinter-Nightsonline-multiplayer-rpgplayer-generated-contentstar-trek-onlinestoMon, 23 Aug 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic and Atari announce Neverwinter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/cryptic-and-atari-announce-neverwinter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/cryptic-and-atari-announce-neverwinter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/cryptic-and-atari-announce-neverwinter/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The speculation has been going on for quite a while, and it's finally been confirmed: The Neverwinter Nights MMO is coming.

Well, sort of. Neverwinter will be developed by Cryptic, and Gamespot was lucky enough to get a little one-on-one time with COO Jack Emmert. Something that he was careful to point out was that this is not a full-blown, persistent MMO: "I wouldn't say MMORPG at all -- Neverwinter is a cooperative RPG."

The Neverwinter site is up and running, with plenty of interesting details about the game. It's based on 4th edition D&D, set for launch in 2011, and is inspired by R.A. Salvatore's upcoming trilogy. The first book in that series arrives in October, so by the time Neverwinter launches, the world should be fully established.

For the time being, Cryptic and Atari have provided a fair amount of resources for hopeful (and skeptical) fans to keep up with development. The official site contains a newsletter signup page, some brief backstory, and the full press release. You can also follow game news on Twitter and Facebook.

MassivelyCryptic and Atari announce Neverwinter originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4th-editionataribreakingco-opcorpgcrypticcryptic-studiosdndDungeons-and-Dragonsfaerunforgotten-realmsjack-emmertneverwinterNeverwinter-Nightsneverwinter-nights-mmonwnnwn-mmoplayneverwinterr-a-salvatorer.a.-salvatoreMon, 23 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Atari close to announcing a Neverwinter Nights MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/rumor-atari-close-to-announcing-a-neverwinter-nights-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/rumor-atari-close-to-announcing-a-neverwinter-nights-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/rumor-atari-close-to-announcing-a-neverwinter-nights-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you're getting a strong sense of deja vu at the title up above, we can't blame you -- after all, we've been covering this supposed MMO announcement for a couple years now. However, a pair of recent developments have led us to believe that Atari is on the verge of announcing the long-anticipated Neverwinter Nights MMO.

The first piece of concrete news is a brief statement from the recent GenCon Indy, where Critical-Hits.com went to a D&D products seminar and heard the representatives state that Atari has an upcoming D&D video game. Unfortunately, they were unable to obtain any further information about it at the convention.

Following up on this statement, Superannuation did a bit of digging and discovered that Atari recently purchased a slew of domain names, including visitneverwinter.com, playneverwinter.com and neverwintergame.com. Add these facts together with the promised announcement of Cryptic's new MMO this summer, and we could be hearing official confirmation of a Neverwinter Nights MMO any day now. Stay tuned!

MassivelyRumor: Atari close to announcing a Neverwinter Nights MMO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricritical-hits.comcrypticd-and-ddddomain-registrationgencongencon-10gencon-2010gencon-indygencon-indy-10neverwinter-nightsneverwinter-nights-mmoneverwintergameplayneverwintersuperannuationvisitneverwinterTue, 10 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring (the rest of) Eberron]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/exploring-the-rest-of-eberron/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/exploring-the-rest-of-eberron/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/exploring-the-rest-of-eberron/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

By the time you read this, I'll be scampering about GenCon in Indianapolis, thick in the middle of four days of gaming and geekery. Don't weep for me, for I am already gone! One of my hopes for this weekend is to reconnect with pen-and-paper RPGs, a part of my gaming life that has almost withered into nothingness.

That got me thinking about Eberron -- the D&D campaign in which DDO is set. You don't hear DDO players fussing about it so much any more (people either made their peace with it or moved on), but way back when, the Eberron setting was a fairly controversial choice for Turbine to make. After all, there are dozens upon dozens of campaign settings, including some (like Forgotten Realms or Dragonlance) that most people associate with the franchise.

Eberron, on the other hand, was a relatively wet-behind-the-ears upstart with a quirky setting that can best be described as "Indiana Jones meets steampunk meets flashy, practical magic." Personally, I've grown to like the campaign, and I want to take a look at how the pen-and-paper version was constructed, how the Eberron setting shines in DDO, and how Turbine could be using it more.

Continue reading Exploring (the rest of) Eberron

MassivelyExploring (the rest of) Eberron originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artificerbaldurs-gatechangelingsclassesdaelkyr-half-bloodsddodruiddungeons-and-dragonseberronexploring-eberronfeaturedfilm-noirgnomeshalf-orckalashtarkhovairekieth-bakerneverwinter-nightspsiforgedpsionicspsychicpsychic-warriorpulp-adventurepulp-fictionracesshifterssoulknifesteampunkstormreachtheres-no-race-like-gnometurbinewarforgedWizards-of-the-CoastxendrikFri, 06 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How would you make a D&D MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/the-daily-grind-how-would-you-make-a-dandd-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/the-daily-grind-how-would-you-make-a-dandd-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/the-daily-grind-how-would-you-make-a-dandd-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've made it no secret here at the Massively offices that we love us some Dungeons & Dragons Online (especially with our regular Wednesday evening guild play), but we'd be naive to think that DDO is the last D&D MMO we'll ever see. Considering that the franchise has a long tradition of console titles, PC games and MMOs (dating back to 1991's Neverwinter Nights), we'd go as far as saying that another D&D MMO is probably closer than we'd expect.

So if you could define the parameters of this theoretical new game, what would you choose? What studio would handle it? What D&D setting would you like to play in the most? What edition of the rules? How would you overcome the difficulties of transitioning the pen-and-paper game into a MMORPG? Would it follow DDO's highly instanced format, or be something else entirely?

Cast your level one spell of Creative Thought, and let us know: how would you make a D&D MMO?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: How would you make a D&D MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 May 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campaignddddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeditionneverwinter-nightsnights-in-eberronopiniontdgthe-daily-grindturbineWed, 26 May 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic to announce new MMO later this summer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/cryptic-to-announce-new-mmo-later-this-summer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/cryptic-to-announce-new-mmo-later-this-summer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/cryptic-to-announce-new-mmo-later-this-summer/#commentsFiled under: ,

With Star Trek Online and Champions Online chewing the scenery and igniting passions on both sides of the aisle, it's sometimes easy to forget that Cryptic Studios has a third project brewing in secrecy. Long rumored to be a D&D MMO -- perhaps even Neverwinter Nights -- the Cryptic folks have been, well, cryptic about the title.

It looks like we may find out in a few months, however. In a recent MMORPG.com interview with Bill Roper, Cryptic's Chief Creative Officer cracked a small window into this upcoming announcement:

"I can't speak to the specifics of what we're doing, but it's true that we have another game in the works. We won't be making an announcement until late summer, and we're still a ways off from launch. I can say that this is a game and a franchise we're very excited about. I think people are going to pleased and a bit surprised with what we're doing in terms of the game, how we make it, and even how we sell and support it. The game is being developed around new design principles merged with Cryptic's community-first approach to ongoing development."

Continue reading Cryptic to announce new MMO later this summer

MassivelyCryptic to announce new MMO later this summer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 May 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill-roperchampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosddDungeons-and-Dragonsneverwinter-nightsstar-trek-onlinestowild-cardWed, 05 May 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What project would you like to see your favorite studio tackle next?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/the-daily-grind-what-project-would-you-like-to-see-your-favorit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/the-daily-grind-what-project-would-you-like-to-see-your-favorit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/the-daily-grind-what-project-would-you-like-to-see-your-favorit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Speculation and wishful thinking inevitably collide at the junction of studios and future MMOs. When we become rabid fans of a particular MMO studio we want them to succeed -- and not only with current games, but by expanding their portfolio into other titles as well. This is apparent when we eagerly grasp at even the barest hint of a rumor of a new studio MMO, as we've seen with NCSoft (City of Heroes 2?), Cryptic (Neverwinter Nights?), Blizzard (Call of Duty MMO?) and Turbine (console MMO?).

So pushing rumors aside to engage in the ultimate wish fulfillment, if you could select a project for your favorite MMO studio to take on, what would it be? Would you want to see them snag a popular IP that's remained untouched in online space up to this point? Would you like to see them expand into other markets than PC, such as mobile or console games? Would the studio be wise to greenlight a project that is radically different in both scope and business model than anything they've done before? If wishes were magical sparkle ponies, what project would you like to see your favorite studio tackle?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What project would you like to see your favorite studio tackle next? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardcall-of-dutycity-of-heroesconsole-mmocrypticcryptic-studiosmagic-sparkle-ponyncsoftneverwinter-nightstdgthe-daily-grindturbineWed, 21 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The gaming renaissance, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/the-gaming-renaissance-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/the-gaming-renaissance-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/the-gaming-renaissance-part-2/#commentsContinue reading The gaming renaissance, part 2

MassivelyThe gaming renaissance, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academiccultureeve-onlineeverquestgamersgaminghistoryindustrylineagemeridian-59mmo-industryneverwinter-nightsnexusopinionrenaissancethe-realmultima-onlinevirtual-worldsworld-of-warcraftTue, 20 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The gaming renaissance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/the-gaming-renaissance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/the-gaming-renaissance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/the-gaming-renaissance/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


In the early 70's, some clever chap programmed a pile of circuits to create a primitive game we all know as Pong. Fast-forward some forty years down the line and we're now battling Orcs in Azeroth and flying spaceships in the far-reaches of another galaxy. An entire games industry has erupted from those first simple arcade systems, with people designing and programming games for kids and adults alike. In the 90's, the first generation of kids that grew up with those early game systems became the ones making them and a virtual renaissance in game design ensued. Those kids that grew up wishing they could make their own games started to realise their dreams and the games industry as we know it came forth. More recently, the people that grew up with early MMOs have begun to hit the games industry and we're seeing a rebirth of the genre.

In this article, I look at the games industry explosion and how it relates to the generations growing up with games. I ask whether the MMO genre is headed for its own great gaming renaissance and take a speculative look ahead at the future for MMOs and the games industry as a whole.

Continue reading The gaming renaissance

MassivelyThe gaming renaissance originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academiccultureeve-onlineeverquestgamersgaminghistoryindustrylineagemeridian-59mmo-industryneverwinter-nightsnexusopinionrenaissancethe-realmultima-onlinevirtual-worldsworld-of-warcraftTue, 20 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Cryptic developing a Neverwinter Nights MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/rumor-cryptic-developing-a-neverwinter-nights-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/rumor-cryptic-developing-a-neverwinter-nights-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/rumor-cryptic-developing-a-neverwinter-nights-mmo/#commentsFiled under: ,


According to a recent rumor at Variety, Cryptic Studios may just be developing a Neverwinter Nights MMO afterall. Of course the speculation first arose a few weeks ago when Atari acquired Cryptic, but the speculation has now reached full-fledged rumor status! *Gasp*

Of course there are two things you may be thinking on news like this: This is just a rumor, and seriously, another fantasy MMO? Cryptic Studios is already doing quite well for itself in the IP department with upcoming Champions Online and the Star Trek Online MMO, so would this new-found shower of capital really encourage them to take on a Neverwinter Nights MMO as well? From here we'll just have to wait and see, but let us know what you think about the possibilities, good or bad, in the comments below.

MassivelyRumor: Cryptic developing a Neverwinter Nights MMO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricrypticcryptic-studiosneverwinter-nightsrunorTue, 09 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cinemassively: BloodSpell team discusses going from series to feature]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/cinemassively-bloodspell-team-discusses-going-from-series-to-fe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/cinemassively-bloodspell-team-discusses-going-from-series-to-fe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/cinemassively-bloodspell-team-discusses-going-from-series-to-fe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Strange Company's documentary series about the making of their feature-length machinima, BloodSpell has come to a close. Over the six episodes of the documentary, they discussed conception, pre-production, animation, editing, going from series to feature, and their experiences making the film.

Today, we're focusing on the fifth episode in the series, on going from series to feature. Through their interviews, they provide helpful tips on taking your series and reformatting it into a feature-length film. Some of the topics they discuss are reshooting scenes and color correction. If you're looking to take your work to the next level, very few have come as far as feature-length in the machinima realm!

If you have machinima or movie suggestions from any MMO, please send them to machinima AT massively DOT com, along with any information you might have about them.

MassivelyCinemassively: BloodSpell team discusses going from series to feature originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 May 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebloodspellcinemassivelyhugh-hancockmachinimaneverwinter-nightsnwnstrange-companyThu, 29 May 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cinemassively: The making of BloodSpell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/cinemassively-the-making-of-bloodspell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/cinemassively-the-making-of-bloodspell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/05/cinemassively-the-making-of-bloodspell/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

While Neverwinter Nights wasn't quite an MMO, players were able to host up to 64 people at once on a home server. It was also extremely customizable in a way that few MMOs allowed for. That's why it served as the medium of choice for veteran machinimator Hugh Hancock to create his feature-length machinima, BloodSpell.

Making a feature-length anything isn't easy. It requires a lot of planning, time, dedication, and a large cast of supporting players. Hugh has been releasing documentaries once a week that go over everything from concept to development to preproduction, all the way to finish. These short films are extremely helpful to any aspiring machinimator plotting a large-scale project! For more information, check out the BloodSpell blog.

If you have machinima or movie suggestions from any MMO, please send them to machinima AT massively DOT com, along with any information you might have about them.

MassivelyCinemassively: The making of BloodSpell originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 May 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bloodspelldocumentaryhugh-hancockmachinimamaking-ofmaking-of-bloodspell-documentaryneverwinter-nightsstrange-companyMon, 05 May 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[No more winter nights for Stormfront Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/no-more-winter-nights-for-stormfront-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/no-more-winter-nights-for-stormfront-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/02/no-more-winter-nights-for-stormfront-studios/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Bay Area game developer Stormfront Studios is closing its doors after 20 years of operation.

This is an unfortunate turn of events in the video game industry -- especially the MMO sector -- because in 1991 Stormfront produced the very first graphical online RPG, Neverwinter Nights. The company was helmed by Don Daglow, an esteemed developer who created arguably the first ever computer RPG. That game was called Dungeon, and it operated on the PDP-10 mainframe in the mid-late 1970s.

We're sad to see a studio of such pedigree go. We just waxed nostalgic about Neverwinter Nights on Monday, so we're a bit shocked to see the group behind it bite the dust. NWN was shut down long ago, but its influence -- and therefore, Stormfront's influence -- is undeniable. It was even even honored at the Tech & Engineering Emmy Awards in January. We wish Daglow and the other folks at Stormfront success in whatever lies ahead for each of them.

[Via Joystiq]

MassivelyNo more winter nights for Stormfront Studios originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AOLclosingdon-daglowdungeonemmy-awardshistoryjoystiqneverwinter-nightsnext-gennostalgiapdp-10RPGstormfront-studiosWed, 02 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Visual History of MMORPGs, Part I]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/massivelys-visual-history-of-mmorpgs-part-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/massivelys-visual-history-of-mmorpgs-part-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/massivelys-visual-history-of-mmorpgs-part-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


The MMORPG genre has come so far in these past few decades, it's almost difficult to believe. The journey from text MUDs to America Online-based dungeon crawlers, and all the way up to Age of Conan and Warhammer Online has been a truly impressive one. We here at Massively would like to invite you to step into the time machine with us and take a visual tour of that journey. We're taking a close look at the most important titles in online role-playing game history!

What was the first MUD? Howabout the first 3D MMO? When did these games transition from niche curiosities to global, cultural phenomenons, and who's responsible? In this series, we'll tackle all those questions and more. Plus, we'll see just how far these fancy graphics have come over the years! Sound like fun? Jump into the gallery!

Gallery: Massively's Visual History of MMORPGs, Part I

MUDNeverwinter Nights (1991)The Shadow of Yserbius (1992)Nexus: The Kingdom of the Winds (1996)Meridian 59 (1996)

MassivelyMassively's Visual History of MMORPGs, Part I originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3doaolfeaturedgalleryhistoryjoystiqfeatureslineagemeridian-59mmorpgmmorpgsMUDncsoftnear-death-studiosneverwinter-nightsnexonnexusoriginorigin-systemsscreenshotsshadow-of-yserbiussierrasierra-onlinethe-realmultima-onlineMon, 31 Mar 2008 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Video game giants awarded at CES 2008]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/video-game-giants-awarded-at-ces-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/video-game-giants-awarded-at-ces-2008/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/video-game-giants-awarded-at-ces-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Several video games and their respective creators were honored at the fifty-ninth Annual Technology and Engineering Emmy Awards at CES 2008 in Las Vegas. The awards spotlighted some of the most groundbreaking titles in development of massively multiplayer online graphical role playing games as well as user generated content or game mods.

The winners of the first category for development of MMORPGs were Sony Online Entertainment for Everquest (Laura Naviaux), Blizzard for World of Warcraft (Mike Morhaime) and AOL/Time Warner for Neverwinter Nights (Don Daglow).

And the winners of the second category for user generated content/game modification were EA for Pinball Construction (Bill Budge), Id Software for Quake (John Carmack) and Linden Lab for Second Life (Philip Rosedale).

Pictured from left to right: Daglow, Budge, Carmack, Naviaux, Rosedale, Morhaime

We really only have just one thing to mention. If you're the representative of a multi-billion-dollar international corporation like Activision Blizzard, shouldn't you consider something other than raiding your dad's closet for a 1970's brown polyester suit? Although, only really rich people can afford to look broke, because they buy good stuff and wear it forever. So when Mike got it, it was probably very chic... in the 70's.

MassivelyVideo game giants awarded at CES 2008 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Jan 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aolaol-time-warnerawardawardsbill-budgeblizzardblizzard-activisioncesdon-dagloweverquestid-sofwarejohn-carmacklaura-naviauxlinden-labmike-morhaimeneverwinter-nightsphilip-rosedalesecond-lifesoesony-online-entertainmentworld-of-warcraftTue, 08 Jan 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Arden released to the public]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/27/arden-released-to-the-public/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/27/arden-released-to-the-public/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/27/arden-released-to-the-public/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Arden, the MMO supposedly based around "the world of William Shakespeare," has been released... kind of. I've been waiting for this one for a while-- who wouldn't want to walk the halls of Kronborg Castle with Hamlet, or visit Banquo's banquet with MacBeth? But unfortunately, "released" is a little strong a word here-- the "game" consists of a Neverwinter Nights module, so you've got to have the NWN toolset up and running to even check it out, and even then, I'm not sure it quite makes the definition of an MMO.

I'm hesitant to actually call Arden vaporware, but I don't see how a Neverwinter Nights module can help "test political and social theories." Over on Terra Nova, Edward Castronova (who's running the project), admits that they didn't make it fun, and laments that testers wanted "monsters" to turn the thing into a game. So he's planning Arden II: Electric Boogaloo London Burning, a game that is designed to be fun from the beginning.

I take a little issue with the fact that he thinks only "monsters" can make a "gripping game experience," but seeing as I don't have NWN installed at the moment, I'll have to leave my analysis at that. If you get a chance to check out Arden, let us know what it's like. I'm sure there is a lot of interest in a "gripping" virtual world full of references to Shakespeare, but by the creator's own admission, it seems that Arden probably isn't it.

MassivelyArden released to the public originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Nov 2007 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academicardenedward-castronovagrippingmonstersneverwinter-nightsnwnnwn-toolsetshakespeare-mmowilliam-shakespeareTue, 27 Nov 2007 18:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Bioware seeking you to write their MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/bioware-seeking-you-to-write-their-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/bioware-seeking-you-to-write-their-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/bioware-seeking-you-to-write-their-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The latest Penny Arcade comic (which, for the record, also features a little hiring humor) has a news update that will probably be super interesting to those of you thinking about a career writing videogames, specifically MMOs. Daniel Erickson, the lead writer over at Bioware Austin, is looking for people from all walks of life to come help him write the new Bioware MMO.

Erickson says that it's the biggest project Bioware has ever done (ever), and that he expects the story to take the efforts of "a double digit writing staff working for years" to get done right. Additionally, he says that many of their greatest writers have come from weird career places, and so whether you're working the fry line at Dairy Queen or finishing up your own indie RPG, Bioware is willing to check out your work and see if you'd join them. There's more deets on their website-- basically, besides the normal job application stuff, they want you to create dialogue inside a Neverwinter Nights scenario, and make it good. There is one drawback, however-- if you do get the job, don't forget that you'd be working for EA.

Even if you're not applying, this little letter (reprinted after the break) is interesting-- they ask specifically for "Baldur's Gate 2, Planescape Torment, Neverwinter Nights" style game dialogue. Does that mean that this isn't the KotOR MMO we've all been expecting? Is Bioware putting together a Forgotten Realms MMO? If so, I call Entreri!

Continue reading Bioware seeking you to write their MMO

MassivelyBioware seeking you to write their MMO originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Nov 2007 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-mmobreakingeaforgotten-realmskotorkotor-mmommoneverwinter-nightsMon, 12 Nov 2007 19:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Under The Hood: Pseudo-MMOs, Part One]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/under-the-hood-pseudo-mmos-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/under-the-hood-pseudo-mmos-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/under-the-hood-pseudo-mmos-part-one/#commentsFiled under: ,


The world of MMO-making is more and more competitive by the hour, with many big-name developers throwing their hats into the MMO development ring as time goes on. But where does this leave us? Are all of these games requiring subscription fees? Will I be left out in the street playing Star Trek Online because I'm paying hundreds a month in fees? Not if the "pseudo-MMO" has anything to do with it.

The pseudo-MMO is a game which is similar to an MMO, but lacks things that an MMO often has, such as subscription fees, a truly massive environment (as opposed to a very large environment), a centralized server, or non-instanced zones. They aren't "real" MMOs, but they come very, very close. By offering persistent worlds, large amounts of players on a server at any one time, and sometimes even single-player, these doppelgangers can capture the "feel" of an MMO without (or with, in some cases!) a subscription fee. So let's walk down the list.

Continue reading Under The Hood: Pseudo-MMOs, Part One

MassivelyUnder The Hood: Pseudo-MMOs, Part One originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diablodiablo-2eveeve-onlinefeaturedflfreelancerguild-warsgwhellgate-londonhljoystiqfeaturesmechanicsneverwinter-nightsnwnstar-trek-onlinestoFri, 09 Nov 2007 12:15:00 EST