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 MMO Report: Pre-E3 edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-mmo-reports-pre-e3-special/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-mmo-reports-pre-e3-special/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-mmo-reports-pre-e3-special/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The MMO Report
Heads up, ladies and gents; it's time for a special pre-E3 edition of The MMO Report. That's right, the biggest event in the industry is rolling out the proverbial red carpet next week, and MMOs have plenty on the slate for the big event. G4's fabulous Casey Schreiner has a look at some of the big pre-E3 MMO news, as well as a taste of what players can expect from the convention.

For your appetizer, we have a look at the three factions of ZeniMax's upcoming title, The Elder Scrolls Online. You can wash that down with a tall glass of Trion Worlds' MMO-television crossover game, Defiance. That should be sufficient to prepare you for the main course of PlanetSide 2's delicious MAX suit reveal, as well as a few more post-meal treats. So what are you waiting for? Pull up a seat and check out the full video below.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Pre-E3 edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Pre-E3 edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey-schreinerdefiancehumormmo-reportnewsopinionplanetside-2ps2rounduptesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-mmo-reporttrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 25 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World launch delayed to July 3rd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-secret-world-launch-delayed-to-july-3rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-secret-world-launch-delayed-to-july-3rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-secret-world-launch-delayed-to-july-3rd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Secret World Image
The Dragons, Templars, and Illuminati will have to wait two more weeks to dive into their organizations: Originally slated for June 19th, The Secret World's release is delayed until July 3rd. Early access will open on June 29th.

Funcom also announced the final two beta weekends. The first, titled "Hell Raised,'" will run from June 15th until June 17th and will include the Illuminati and Dragon starter experiences as well as allow players to leave Kingsmouth for the Savage Coast. The final beta weekend will be from June 22nd to June 24th; during this event players will participate in the game's PvP in both the warzone gameplay and the Eldorado battlefield.

MassivelyThe Secret World launch delayed to July 3rd originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-weekendbeta-weekend-eventbeta-weekendsdelayed-launchfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorlaunch-delaymythologynewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswFri, 25 May 2012 07:45:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios appears to be getting no new help]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-appears-to-be-getting-no-new-help/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-appears-to-be-getting-no-new-help/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-appears-to-be-getting-no-new-help/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Curt Schilling
The bad news continues to accumulate for Rhode Island developer 38 Studios. According to Rhode Island governor Lincoln Chafee, the company has received a grand total of no outside investment. It also has not received any of the tax credits that it requested, leaving the studio still deep in the hole. Chafee has stated that he is doing everything in his power to prevent the studio's closure.

Staff members are also leaving the company at an alarming rate, with CEO Jen MacLean and senior VP of product development John Blakely both confirming their departures from the company. The hiring of both individuals was trumpeted as a mark of success as recently as March of this year, and Blakely was still employed by 38 Studios as recently as Monday evening. There's even talk of the company's health insurance running out. None of this news suggests that Curt Schilling's company will make a quick turnaround -- if indeed it makes a turnaround at all.

Massively38 Studios appears to be getting no new help originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingfinancefinancesindustryindustry-turnoverjen-macleanjohn-blakelylayoffslegalmmo-industrynewspotential-shutdownproject-copernicusupdatesWed, 23 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rosh Online major content update adds more funtionality and gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/rosh-online-major-content-update-adds-more-funtionality-and-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/rosh-online-major-content-update-adds-more-funtionality-and-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/rosh-online-major-content-update-adds-more-funtionality-and-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Rosh Online screenshot
Ignited Games has released a major content update to its free-to-play fantasy MMO Rosh Online that not only adds more gameplay features but introduces a number of new systems and changes to enhance the player experience.

Along with a mysterious new island and dungeons to explore, new armor and weapons, improved boss monsters, three craftable bear mounts, and an increased level cap (up to 75), this update offers more functionality with modifications to the UI, an inventory sort function, a craft tooltip, and an auto-walk system to get players to NPCs and quest mobs.

If that doesn't sound like enough, a new dismantle system for creating unique crafting items and the ability to view players' equipped items are also being introduced. More details are available in the patch notes.

[Source: Ignited Games press release]

MassivelyRosh Online major content update adds more funtionality and gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armorcontent-updatef2pfantasyfree-to-playignitedignited-gamesnewspatchroshrosh-onlinerosh-online-the-return-of-karosupdateweaponsWed, 23 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefall video blog says farewell to levels, hello to skill]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/firefall-video-blog-discusses-a-farewell-to-levels-and-a-return/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/firefall-video-blog-discusses-a-farewell-to-levels-and-a-return/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/firefall-video-blog-discusses-a-farewell-to-levels-and-a-return/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Not a farewell to arms, mind you. That would make the game kind of silly.
The team at Red 5 Studios has been working hard on making Firefall the best game it can be, and as it turns out, that happens to be a game without traditional levels. A new video blog featuring lead designer Scott Youngblood and development VP James Macauley drops the news that the level system is being discarded and replaced with a much more organic system for player growth.

Under the new system, players still earn EXP. That EXP will be spent on specific upgrades at a player's discretion rather than marking off specific levels, allowing you to unlock the upgrades that feel relevant in the order you want them. It also places less emphasis on levels in head-to-head matchups, something Macauley stresses is important to the team.

There's more than just the removal of levels at work, however; the development team is also overhauling crafting to be more complex and rewarding as well as developing a new system of equipment tiers to keep players advancing. The full diary just past the break only gives brief glimpses of several new systems, but Firefall fans should be quite happy with what's over the horizon.

Continue reading Firefall video blog says farewell to levels, hello to skill

MassivelyFirefall video blog says farewell to levels, hello to skill originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>design-blogdevelopmentdevelopment-blogf2pfirefallfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playfuture-patchesfuture-updatesjames-macauleylevelsmmo-shootermmofpsnewsno-levelspvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fiscott-youngbloodshootervideovideo-blogvideosvlogwarTue, 22 May 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Winners announced in Champions Online Design a Villain contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/winners-announced-in-champions-online-design-a-villain-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/winners-announced-in-champions-online-design-a-villain-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/winners-announced-in-champions-online-design-a-villain-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Champions Online image
Who could resist the opportunity to see one's very own custom super-villain face off against the heroes in Champions Online? One glance at the contest's forum thread shows that many couldn't; a wide variety of nefarious villains were proposed in page after page of contest entries. After much deliberation, Cryptic has finally announced the winners of its Design A Villain contest. However, with so many entries, Cryptic upped the number of winners from five to seven and promised that another round of winners will be announced at a later date.

The grand prize winner who will see both of his creations featured in an upcoming 10-man Alert is Fryguy8544. Runner ups are Ubusunagami, Akwartz, Rianba, chezpizza, Azathoth-Sothoth, and CCat76; their villains will also be featured in the game.

Congratulations to the winners! To check out the winning submissions with their corresponding costumes, visit the official announcement linked below (you'll need to log in to the forums to see the pictures). And for those whose submissions weren't chosen this time, keep watch for the next waves of winners.

MassivelyWinners announced in Champions Online Design a Villain contest originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscocontestcontest-winnerscrypticcryptic-studiosdesign-a-villaindesign-a-villain-contestf2pfree-to-playnewsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesuperherosuperheroeswinnersTue, 22 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Layoffs confirmed for 38 Studios, Rhode Island takes no action]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/layoffs-confirmed-for-38-studios-rhode-island-takes-no-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/layoffs-confirmed-for-38-studios-rhode-island-takes-no-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/layoffs-confirmed-for-38-studios-rhode-island-takes-no-action/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Schilling with reporters
If last week's Project Copernicus flythrough had been a hopeful note, the latest news out of 38 Studios is another downturn. Following a meeting today, the Rhode Island EDC board decided to take no action to help the ailing company at this time. Governor Lincoln Chafee said following the meeting that the financial situation of the studio remains unchanged from last week, but did note that the company has seen some layoffs and underwent unspecified internal shifts.

Founder Curt Schilling did not directly respond to press inquiries, stating that he would answer questions when he is able to do so. He did, however, state that he was not taking further taxpayer money. Whether or not there will be a company there to take any money in the near future is still very much in doubt, however, and while Chafee has been a bit more diplomatic about aiding the studio, he has stressed that any assistance would be far on the conservative side.

MassivelyLayoffs confirmed for 38 Studios, Rhode Island takes no action originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbusinesscurt-schillingfinancesfinancialfinancial-troubleslayofflayoffsmmo-industrynewsproject-copernicusrhode-islandstate-of-rhode-islandMon, 21 May 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Error 37, hero spotlights, and the Torchlight II beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/not-so-massively-error-37-hero-spotlights-and-the-torchlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/not-so-massively-error-37-hero-spotlights-and-the-torchlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/not-so-massively-error-37-hero-spotlights-and-the-torchlight/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Well-known World of Warcraft guild Method secured a world first kill on Diablo III's Skeleton King in inferno mode just a few days after launch but was beaten to the game's completion by a single person. Players have been in outrage all week as server instabilities and login difficulties plagued the game's launch.

League of Legends revealed upcoming champion Darius this week and announced huge client updates that seem set to double the game's frame rate. Blacklight: Retribution released a new Netwar game mode, combining capture the flag and control point gameplay. Heroes of Newerth released its new support hero Riftwalker, Dota 2 released classic hero Treant, and Rise of Immortals took a close look at melee damage-dealer Tzai. Upcoming MOBA Smite will be entering closed beta at the end of the month, and Torchlight II's beta will soon end for the last time.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Error 37, hero spotlights, and the Torchlight II beta

MassivelyNot So Massively: Error 37, hero spotlights, and the Torchlight II beta originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgactivisionbattlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcompetitive-gamingd3dariusdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasyheroes-of-newerthhi-rehi-rezhi-rez-studioshoninfernoinferno-modeleague-of-legendslolmetacriticmethodmmofpsmobamultiplayernetwarnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvppweriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamessmitestress-testtreanttreetzaivalvevideowarcraftworld-firstworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 21 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative staff discuss the story setting of The Elder Scrolls Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/creative-staff-discuss-the-story-setting-of-the-elder-scrolls-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/creative-staff-discuss-the-story-setting-of-the-elder-scrolls-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/creative-staff-discuss-the-story-setting-of-the-elder-scrolls-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Right now, this pretty much qualifies as concept art.
MMOs in an existing franchise always present certain issues: You need enough conceptual space to advance a game's storyline, but you may not want to be locked in to never doing another title in the franchise. So The Elder Scrolls Online has to be set in just the right time period for the game to work. In a recent video interview, creative director Paul Sage and content designer Rich Lambert sat down to talk about the why behind the when.

Sage and Lambert explain that the real draw to this particular time period was the fact that there's neither a great deal of recorded in-game history nor a lot of huge events that might affect future titles -- it's a time when almost anything can happen without derailing future events in the universe. The duo also discusses keeping the game aligned with existing lore and ensuring that nothing gets thrown off by mistake. Those looking forward to the game will want to watch the full interview, which goes into more details regarding specifics of lore and setting.

MassivelyCreative staff discuss the story setting of The Elder Scrolls Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorybethesdainterviewlorelore-detailsnewspaul-sagerich-lambertsettingstorytesothe-elder-scrolls-onlinevideovideo-interviewzenimaxzenimax-online-entertainmentMon, 21 May 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultima Online rolling out a new installment of the Awakening]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/ultima-online-rolling-out-a-new-installment-of-the-awakening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/ultima-online-rolling-out-a-new-installment-of-the-awakening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/ultima-online-rolling-out-a-new-installment-of-the-awakening/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In some cases, sleep is better than awakening. Like waking up to a fight against a giant squid monster.
Ultima Online is preparing a continuation of the game's latest global arc with tomorrow's patch. Act VI of The Awakening asks players to assist in crafting a number of alchemical preparations, with a number of rewards available for players who actively try to crack the puzzle of the correct ingredients. More information will be available from the official site as well as an in-game NPC. If you need more time to prepare, don't worry -- the quest is going active in July and lasting until mid-August.

If you're not willing to wait, the new patch also sees a revamp of the Covetous Dungeon. The first floor remains largely unchanged, but levels two and three both feature a new system for the game in which players accumulate points for defeating monsters that can later be turned in for new rewards. Last but not least, vanilla plants have been added to the game's gardening system, giving players another new thing to explore when not fighting monsters or preparing for the next part of The Awakening.

MassivelyUltima Online rolling out a new installment of the Awakening originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-mmodungeon-revampsdungeonseaelectronic-artsfantasygame-mechanicsglobal-arclord-britishmythicmythic-entertainmentnew-contentnew-patchnewspatchpatch-notespatchesrevampsthe-awakeningultimaultima onlineuouo-awakeningupdatesMon, 21 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[AdventureQuest Worlds releases its first two action figures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/adventurequest-worlds-releases-its-first-two-action-figures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/adventurequest-worlds-releases-its-first-two-action-figures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/adventurequest-worlds-releases-its-first-two-action-figures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Figures sold separately.
Action figures are a great accessory for any video game. Sure, most of us have passed the point when we would use them to stage elaborate battles in the backyard, but it's nice to have something on hand to play with during load times. That's part of the reason that AdventureQuest Worlds is getting into the market with its first two figures, representing Artix and Sepulchure, available in Toys'R'Us stores nationwide starting on May 23rd.

Even if you're not normally the sort to buy action figures, Artix Entertainment has sweetened the deal by making sure that each figure comes with a special in-game house, special armor and weapons, and five playing cards for the game's tie-in card game. If you don't want to wait for them in stores, you can also purchase them directly from the company's online store starting May 18th. The team put together a small stop-motion animation piece as well to celebrate the upcoming figures because honestly, if you've spent this much time thinking about buying an action figure, don't you deserve a toy commercial to cap it off?

[Source: Artix Entertainment press release]

Continue reading AdventureQuest Worlds releases its first two action figures

MassivelyAdventureQuest Worlds releases its first two action figures originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-figuresadventurequestadventurequest-worldsartix-entertainmentcross-promotionsculturef2pfiguresfree-to-playmerchandisenewspromotionstrailertrailersupcoming-releasesvideovideosWed, 16 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III launch day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/diablo-iii-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/diablo-iii-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/diablo-iii-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Diablo III title image
It's been a decade in the making, but today Diablo III finally arrived. The past few months have been filled with Diablo III news and more data than you can imagine, from speculation on the release date to details of gameplay and the different difficulty modes available. We've seen five epic class reveals on the Darkness Falls, Heroes Rise launch site and a series of unlocks that ended with the awesome animated Wrath of Angels short.

In this launch article, we pull together some of the top Diablo III news from the past few months. If you're playing the game today (or not!), be sure to check out our top five tips for making the most of your first few days in Diablo III.

Continue reading Diablo III launch day roundup

MassivelyDiablo III launch day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasyfeaturedgothic-fantasylaunchlaunch-daylaunch-day-round-uplaunch-day-roundupmultiplayernewsonline-multiplayerrpgtrailervideowrath-of-the-lich-kingTue, 15 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III launch and DreamHack Summer 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-launch-and-dreamhack-summer-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-launch-and-dreamhack-summer-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-launch-and-dreamhack-summer-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Diablo III became potentially the most pre-ordered PC game in history this week, breaking both Blizzard's personal pre-order records and online retailer Amazon's. The game is set to launch at midnight tonight, unlocking physical copies and digital installers. Diablo-inspired free-to-play dungeon crawler Path of Exile approaches its own launch this week with the release of its penultimate version 0.9.9 patch.

League of Legends announced its upcoming MSI Beat IT tournament at DreamHack Summer 2012, with a prize fund of $40,000 US and a series of public online qualifiers. Bloodline Champions revealed its own $10,000 DreamHack tournament, with open in-game qualifiers scheduled for next weekend. Valve announced details of the second Dota 2 world championship, a series that started with last year's $1.6 million US tournament.

Blizzard settled its lawsuit with Valve this week, renaming Blizzard DOTA to Blizzard All-Stars but securing the continued non-commercial use of the DotA name for the fan community. Heroes of Newerth released its incredibly successful new Midwars game mode, and Rise of Immortals put forth its official immortal spotlight for new immortal Nauria.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III launch and DreamHack Summer 2012

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III launch and DreamHack Summer 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgactivisionbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championschampion-spotlightcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidiablo-iii-launchdotadota-2dreamhackdreamhack-2012dreamhack-summerdreamhack-summer-2012e-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgameplaygothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroes-of-newerthhonimmortal-spotlightlaunchleague-of-legendslolmid-warsmidwarsmobamsimsi-beat-itmultiplayernaurianewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exilepetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvpriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamesspotlightstunlockstunlock-studiosthe-internationaltournamentvalvevarusvideowarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowwrath-of-the-lich-kingMon, 14 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next beta weekend for The Secret World announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I maintain that this really isn't all that unusual for New England.
If you enjoyed the first peek into the secrets of Funcom's upcoming game, you'll be happy to know that The Secret World's second beta event has already been announced. The next weekend event starts on May 18th at noon EDT and runs until May 21st at 3:00 a.m. EDT. Several European sites will be giving away keys for this particular beta, but players who have pre-ordered the game beforehand will automatically have access to this event.

The new event will feature a number of new areas, quests, and storylines. Players can learn more about the residents of Kingsmouth who have held out despite the town's current state as well as meet representatives of the Orochi Corporation observing the dark occurrences. Plus, all of the previous weekend's content will be available, so if you didn't get a chance to take part in the last test, you'll have plenty to explore within the horror-filled world.

MassivelyNext beta weekend for The Secret World announced originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testsbeta-weekendeventsfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorin-game-eventsmythologynewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedtest-weekendtesting-eventsthe-secret-worldtswMon, 14 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion rewarding decorating skills with contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/aion-rewarding-decorating-skills-with-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/aion-rewarding-decorating-skills-with-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/aion-rewarding-decorating-skills-with-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Aion screenshot
As one of 3.0's most anticipated features, player housing brought a whole new facet of gaming to Aion. Along with the studios, houses, and estates, housing provided Daevas the opportunity to demonstrate their creativity and decorating flair, and players have been taking full advantage of the system. Now, NCsoft wants to reward players for sprucing up their Atreian homes with a contest titled Decorate Your Space.

Think you have a pretty snazzy pad? Then show off those mad decorating skills! All Daevas over level 20 are eligible; just submit up to three unaltered screenshots of your living space via the contest thread or by email to community_aion_en@ncsoft.com by 12:59 a.m. EDT on May 19th. The top three homes judged best decorated will win special 60-day, two-drawer cabinets with an extra 18 slots of storage space.

For full rules, conditions, and the winner release form, visit the official announcement.

MassivelyAion rewarding decorating skills with contest originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.03.0-patchaionascensionawardawardscontestcontestsdecoratingdecorating-contestf2pfantasyfree-to-playhousehousingncsoftnewspatch-3.0truly-freeSat, 12 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic answers questions on companions and modifications]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-questions-on-companions-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-questions-on-companions-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-questions-on-companions-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Could you guys be droids instead? I'd rather have droids.
Companions are one of the main features of Star Wars: The Old Republic, but they're also sometimes very limiting. Depending on your class and spec, you can find yourself with only one or two companions with useful abilities. But that's partly by design; according to the latest community Q&A, the distinctiveness of companions is both a result of their abilities and their personalities. The team has no plans for making companions more interchangeable, at least for the moment.

If you were hoping for better news, don't fret, as the other answers are a fair bit more positive. The technical hurdles preventing some classes from having a modifiable offhand are being looked into, and the answers also delve into the details of adding a new augment slot to existing modifiable items. There's also a discussion of the different rates of gear acquisition for players on the PvE and PvP progress tracks, along with a variety of other answers for players of several stripes.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic answers questions on companions and modifications originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecommunity-q-and-aeaelectronic-artsgame-mechanicslucasartsmodifiable-itemsmodificationsnewspatchesq-and-aquestions-and-answerssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorsystemsthe-old-republictorupdatesFri, 11 May 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: D3 approaches, HoN reveals MidWars game mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/not-so-massively-d3-approaches-hon-reveals-midwars-game-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/not-so-massively-d3-approaches-hon-reveals-midwars-game-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/not-so-massively-d3-approaches-hon-reveals-midwars-game-mode/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

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With just over a week to go until Diablo III is released, Blizzard revealed the final details of the real money auction house, released some fantastic new class wallpapers, and launched a TV advertising campaign. Meanwhile, Torchlight II showed off the impressive final result of its earlier armour design contest and encouraged players to produce armour mods when the game is released.

Heroes of Newerth released a brand-new community-inspired MidWars game map this week to lend official support to the popular unofficial game mode. League of Legends revealed upcoming champion Varus with a full run-down of his abilities and a great art spotlight video. Dota 2 fixed some bizarre bugs and introduced classic hero Phantom Lancer. Rise of Immortals revealed details of its upcoming immortal Nauria, the Angel of Agony. Finally, Wrath of Heroes announced the controversial addition of health potions to its microtransaction store.

Continue reading Not So Massively: D3 approaches, HoN reveals MidWars game mode

MassivelyNot So Massively: D3 approaches, HoN reveals MidWars game mode originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidominiondotae-sporte-sportseaelectronic-artsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgothic-fantasyheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslolmid-warsmidwarsmobamultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesphantom-lancerpvpreal-money-auction-housereal-money-tradereal-money-tradingreal-money-transactionsriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsrmahrmtrmt-ahrmtahroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamess2s2-gamesvideowarhammerwarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroesMon, 07 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA gives players a guide to guilds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/tera-gives-players-a-guide-to-guilds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/tera-gives-players-a-guide-to-guilds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/tera-gives-players-a-guide-to-guilds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If these players were in a guild, they'd be having at least 30% more fun right now.
Maybe TERA is your first MMO, maybe you want to learn about what TERA offers its guilds, or maybe you just want to see guilds defined as something other than small-scale drama generators for once. There are a lot of reasons you might want to look at TERA's new guide to guilds in the game, but whatever your motivation, the guide will provide you with all the answers you need to start guilding away with ease.

The main benefit to being in a guild in TERA are the guild quests; available all across the game, each guild quest provides players with Catharnac Awards that can be used to improve the guild's level and buy special items from vendors. You also need to be part of a level 3 guild to run for public office, which is all the more reason for politically minded players to make friends. But don't take our word for it -- after all, there's a guide to tell you all of this in detail.

MassivelyTERA gives players a guide to guilds originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioscultureen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygame-mechanicsgame-systemsguideguidesguildguild-benefitsguild-questsguildsnewssystemsteraThu, 03 May 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online reveals the first in-game screens of the Catapult]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/mechwarrior-online-reveals-the-first-in-game-screens-of-the-cata/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/mechwarrior-online-reveals-the-first-in-game-screens-of-the-cata/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/mechwarrior-online-reveals-the-first-in-game-screens-of-the-cata/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

And then you roll a critical hit to the head. Boom.
Battles in MechWarrior Online are not about subtlety; they are about unloading huge amounts of firepower on enemy machines as fast as possible. That is the sole purpose of the Catapult, a 'Mech loaded with long-range missiles to pummel enemy units into submission. But the Catapult has another distinction -- it's the first 'Mech to receive screenshot treatment, showing the heavy support 'Mech off in all its jumping, missile-heavy goodness.

Fans familiar with previous games in the MechWarrior franchise or the BattleTech board game will know the Catapult quite well. It's just barely into the heavier weight class. sporting jump jets and medium lasers to help it move out of dangerous engagements or disable lighter units. And, of course, there are its twin missile banks, effective as a direct-fire weapon or for use as artillery with an assisting spotter unit. The game's screenshots also show off the classic variant replacing the missile banks with PPCs, high-powered energy cannons designed to fry targets at extreme range.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

Gallery: MechWarrior Online screenshots

MassivelyMechWarrior Online reveals the first in-game screens of the Catapult originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battletechf2pfirst-screenshotsfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwonewspiranhapiranha-gamespreviewsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsThu, 03 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Hero spotlights and Diablo III confirms PvP arenas in 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/not-so-massively-hero-spotlights-and-diablo-iii-confirms-pvp-ar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/not-so-massively-hero-spotlights-and-diablo-iii-confirms-pvp-ar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/not-so-massively-hero-spotlights-and-diablo-iii-confirms-pvp-ar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
This week, League of Legends revealed plans to buff support tanks in the Varus patch and change several ability power items. Riot also plans to buff Master Yi and nerf Ryze's ability to tank and deal damage at the same time. Dota 2 released an updated user interface designed to take all the pain out of using the courier, and Bloodline Champions revealed its massive $10,000 DreamHack Summer 2012 tournament.

Diablo III revealed the Witch Doctor this week, giving Diablo II necromancer fans a peek at the closest replacement they'll get in the upcoming title. Blizzard's Jay Wilson also confirmed that PvP arenas will be released long before the end of the year. Heroes of Newerth released its new support hero Ellonia, an ice mage whose abilities focus around a stacking slow debuff. Rise of Immortals released a new immortal spotlight video on popular area-effect damage-dealer Netheurgist and encouraged players to start guilds with a contest to win 1,000 prestige points for every guild member.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Hero spotlights and Diablo III confirms PvP arenas in 2012

MassivelyNot So Massively: Hero spotlights and Diablo III confirms PvP arenas in 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgAlistarAmumubattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championsbuffcompetitive-gamingcourierd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadreamhackdreamhack-2012dreamhack-summerdreamhack-summer-2012e-sporte-sportsElloniaesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasyguildsheroes-of-newerthhonjay-wilsonleague-of-legendsLeonalolmaster-yimobamultiplayernerfNetheurgistnewsnot-so-massivelynsmNunuonline-multiplayerpatchpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvppvp-arenasriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamesryzes2s2-gamesstunlockstunlock-studiosTarictorchlight-2torchlight-iivalvevarusvideoMon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV launches patch 1.22]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-22/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-22/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-22/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A man with a plan. Also a sword.
Feel as if the last major Final Fantasy XIV patch just had too much to absorb at once? Well, you're going to be a bit stuck today if that's the case because patch 1.22 has just gone live and brought with it another host of improvements, updates, and changes. The good news is that this patch doesn't contain the same number of system changes as the previous patch, but that's because of the sheer amount of new content included.

The patch adds another four ranks to the Grand Companies, another set of quests, the new Garuda battle, the first of the hamlet defense points, and more besides. Players will also be able to obtain new items from crafting, gathering, and victory in the Garuda fight, and they'll be able to see the first hints of what will happen to the world as the era draws to a close. Servers are expected to be back online later tonight, and players will no doubt have plenty to explore once they can log in again.

[Thanks to Alex for the tip!]

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV launches patch 1.22 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesfantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.22final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-updatesmajor-patchesmajor-updatesnewspatchpatch-1.22patch-daypatchessquaresquare-enixupdatesWed, 25 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III cooks up a reveal for the Witch Doctor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/diablo-iii-cooks-up-a-reveal-for-the-witch-doctor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/diablo-iii-cooks-up-a-reveal-for-the-witch-doctor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/diablo-iii-cooks-up-a-reveal-for-the-witch-doctor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Shirts optional, masks mandatory.
As the release grows closer, Diablo III continues to serve up new reveals for the game's classes. But the latest revelation is still bringing a lot of secrets along with it. After all, would you really expect the Witch Doctor not to have a few more tricks up his sleeve? Like previous classes, the good doctor gets a video showing off the class style as well as a short story and a more specific class overview.

While he's fully capable of dealing straight damage, the Witch Doctor's true talents lie in subtlety and misdirection via curses, confusion, and fear. He also possesses the ability to summon creatures to act as ersatz allies, with giant toads and swarms of flaming bats compensating for his own lack of physical might. If all of this sounds like just your style, you might want to take a look at the video... but even if that's not the case, all Diablo III fans will want to take note of the first announced launch event for the game, with more to follow.

Continue reading Diablo III cooks up a reveal for the Witch Doctor

MassivelyDiablo III cooks up a reveal for the Witch Doctor originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopclassclass-previewclass-revealclassesd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasymultiplayernewsonline-multiplayerpreviewsroguelikerpgtrailertrailersvideovideoswitch-doctorWed, 25 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet reveals world transfer details for Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/arenanet-reveals-world-transfer-details-for-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/arenanet-reveals-world-transfer-details-for-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/arenanet-reveals-world-transfer-details-for-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Image
To wrap up what's been a very exciting day for Guild Wars 2 beta weekend participants, ArenaNet has published a blog post detailing world choice and the mechanics of transferring worlds.

Upon first logging into the game, players will be able to pick any home world server available, including those in a different region from where they purchased the game. All characters thereafter are created on that home world. World transfers are possible, but have both a time and gem cost. A player can change home worlds only once every seven days and must shell out 1,800 gems to do so. Once the game goes live, however, a "guesting" feature will be available to allow players to join friends on any world, although players won't be able to participate in WvW for their temporary host server.

Guesting won't be in for the beta weekend event, but players will be able to test out transferring worlds. Each account will be able to unlock 2,000 free gems for the BWE, which will cover the cost of a transfer and a little more.

A complete server list for the upcoming beta weekend event is available in ArenaNet's blog post.

MassivelyArenaNet reveals world transfer details for Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbeta-weekendbeta-weekend-eventbwebwe1fantasyguild-wars-2gw2home-serverhome-worldncsoftnewsserver-mechanicsworldworld-transferTue, 24 Apr 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III open beta weekend edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-open-beta-weekend-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-open-beta-weekend-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/not-so-massively-diablo-iii-open-beta-weekend-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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Diablo III's open beta weekend was a huge success, giving developers the chance to stress test the servers that will be used when the game goes live in just over three weeks. Torchlight II teased fans this week with the release of its official opening trailer, which picks up the story from the end of the first game. Web series Extra Credits ran a special episode this week discussing Firefall's plan to let players work together to push back the map boundaries and unlock new content.

Rise of Immortals rolled out a new guild system in this week's patch and released its new area-effect tank immortal, Shard. Dota 2 added classic hero Brewmaster to the beta roster, and Bloodline Champions began preparing patch 2.4 with its new healer bloodline, Dryad. Wrath of Heroes released a hero spotlight video on melee fighter Bax Dreadtoof, and League of Legends highlighted some awesome fan-made art.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III open beta weekend edition

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III open beta weekend edition originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championsbrewmastercompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadryade-sporte-sportseaelectronic-artsesportesportsextra-creditsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasyhyun90league-of-legendslilypichulolmobamonkmultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvpred-5-studiosriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrvrshardstunlockstunlock-studiosvideowarwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroesMon, 23 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ChangYou plans to bring Shadowbane back in China]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/changyou-plans-to-bring-shadowbane-back-in-china/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/changyou-plans-to-bring-shadowbane-back-in-china/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/changyou-plans-to-bring-shadowbane-back-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Old MMOs never die, they just get farmed out. Well, except AC2. And TMO. And E&B. And SWG...
MMOs die. It's a very sad reality, but a reality just the same. And more often than not, there's no chance for a revival. But every so often the stars align just right and fans get lucky, which is almost the case with Shadowbane. Nearly three years after the game's shutdown, it looks like it'll be getting a new lease on life... as the basis for a new title developed by ChangYou.

There are no firm details on what the new game will look like, although it appears to have been in development for roughly a year at this time. Preliminarily titled World of Shadowbane, the game is still too far in the future for any sort of launch information, much less discussion of whether or not the game will see an American release. Still, it's closer to a chance at revival than the game has had in the past three years, and that's something.

MassivelyChangYou plans to bring Shadowbane back in China originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changyoudead-mmosdead-titlesmmo-industrynew-titlesnewsshadowbanetitle-revivaltitles-in-developmentubisoftworld-of-shadowbaneMon, 23 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 gets all social before the beta weekend [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/guild-wars-2-gets-all-social-before-the-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/guild-wars-2-gets-all-social-before-the-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/guild-wars-2-gets-all-social-before-the-beta-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Or you could just hang out by the punch bowl and not talk to anyone. That's also an option.
There's no shortage of players waiting eagerly to jump into Guild Wars 2 beta testing this weekend, but that's still several days away. It's very possible that you really need a steady shot of Tyria a little earlier than that. Fortunately for you, there are options open as the community team pushes interaction in a big way. The game's Facebook page is the center of a rather art-centric promotion: As the page nears half a million Likes, the team is releasing a new piece of art for every 10,000 new fans.

Not your cup of tea? That's all right, as the team has also set up a Pinterest page to show off the best game-related fan projects. There are also boards set up on the same page where you can show off screenshots of each race, whether you're opting for the diminutive Asura or the towering Norn. It's a good chance for everyone to get involved in the Guild Wars 2 community before the weekend gets underway, even if it won't make the test start any faster.

[Updated with clarification regarding the picture forums.]

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 gets all social before the beta weekend [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetabeta-testingbeta-weekendfacebookfantasyforumforumsguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftnewsofficial-forumspinterestsocialsocial-mediatwitterMon, 23 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: PAX East, D3 unlocks, and MOBA news]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/not-so-massively-pax-east-d3-unlocks-and-moba-news/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/not-so-massively-pax-east-d3-unlocks-and-moba-news/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/not-so-massively-pax-east-d3-unlocks-and-moba-news/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
With just less than a month until Diablo III hits the shelves, Blizzard released another 275,000 beta keys into the wild. The share meter on the game's social media microsite also reached 30% this week and unlocked the first three pieces of exclusive content. Meanwhile, Path of Exile celebrated an incredibly successful pre-order campaign, netting over $200,000 in just six days and selling 13 of its $1,000 diamond packages.

In the land of MOBAs, League of Legends looked back on PAX East this week and celebrated some of the incredible costumes that fans turned up in. Dota 2 fixed a few behavioural problems with bots, added the ability to skip straight to kills in a game replay, and brought back the popular Random Draft game mode. Bloodline Champions revealed its new bloodline Dryad, and Rise of Immortals revealed its new crystalline tank immortal Shard. Heroes of Newerth released its third ranged agility hero in a row this week, the unfortunately named Artillery.

Continue reading Not So Massively: PAX East, D3 unlocks, and MOBA news

MassivelyNot So Massively: PAX East, D3 unlocks, and MOBA news originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgannieartillerybarbarianbattlenetbeta-keybeta-keysblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championsbook-of-caincompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidiablo-iii-betadotadryade-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendslolluxmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeroriannapath-of-exilepaxpax-eastpax-east-2012petroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepre-orderpvprandom-draftriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamesshardstunlockstunlock-studiosunlockvideoMon, 16 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT community team livestreaming Infernal Dawn tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's not really a raid unless there's a ten-minute diversion when the tanks both go out for a smoke.
If you're playing RIFT, odds are good you're looking forward to the next major content update -- and if you're also a raider, so much the better. But it's one thing to read about all of the neat things that will be going on in a new raid and another thing entirely to actually see them. That's why the community team is hosting an official livestream of the new Infernal Dawn raid that's getting released this week.

The run will begin at 11:30 a.m. PDT, moving through the entirety of the raid and showing off all of the bosses without spoiling the fights themselves. The community team will also be explaining the lore behind the area and the bosses and answering community questions when possible. So if you've got the time around noon tomorrow to check it out, head over to the game's Facebook page and get ready for a guided tour of the newest raid.

[Source: Trion Worlds press release]

MassivelyRIFT community team livestreaming Infernal Dawn tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsfacebookfantasyinfernal-dawnlivestreamnew-raidsnewspatchpatchespreviewsraidraidsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarastreamingtriontrion-worldsvideovideosMon, 16 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online alerts players to a new trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/champions-online-alerts-players-to-a-new-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/champions-online-alerts-players-to-a-new-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/champions-online-alerts-players-to-a-new-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

I'm getting an urgent alert. The Hot Pockets are almost done.
If you haven't played the content in the latest Champions Online update, you haven't been playing the game. After all, the update launched last Friday. But maybe you're a free player and you're still on the fence about whether or not the game is worth playing with all of the system overhauls and new mechanics. In the hopes of targeting that critical but indecisive user base, the development team has put together a new trailer for the On Alert update.

All right, so perhaps a trailer isn't the best place to show off detailed mechanical shifts in depth unless you really enjoy watching math. But it still shows off a bit of the new group challenges and the new Alert system, and the update's information hub can fill you in on the more numerical shifts. Check out the trailer just past the break, and if it sparks your interest, you can log into the game and start playing with the new systems now.

Continue reading Champions Online alerts players to a new trailer

MassivelyChampions Online alerts players to a new trailer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsnew-mechanicsnew-systemsnewson-alertpatchpatchesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesuperherosuperheroestrailertrailersupdateupdatesvideovideosMon, 16 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlaneShift releases patch 0.5.9]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/planeshift-releases-patch-0-5-9/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/planeshift-releases-patch-0-5-9/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/planeshift-releases-patch-0-5-9/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Still a better-looking game than the original EverQuest, and a better love story than Twilight.
Ever played an MMORPG and thought that you could do a better job making it than the developers? PlaneShift is more or less completely built around that idea. It's an open-source, community-developed game that's still not at full "release" status but does allow players and developers alike plenty of participation in the process. While the development cycle is slow by necessity, the game has just recently released its 0.5.9 patch, bringing with it a large variety of improvements and refinements for the engine and the game itself.

The game's art has received several sweeping overhauls; the biggest changes have been aimed at the game's engine in the form of fixing bugs and improving support for a variety of graphics cards. There are also updates to the game's AI scripting, allowing NPCs to act in a more organic and unified fashion. If you're an old hand at the game, the patch is no doubt worth checking out -- and if you've never heard of it, perhaps this is enough to pique your interest.

MassivelyPlaneShift releases patch 0.5.9 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 14 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codingengine-updatesf2pfree-to-playgame-updatesnewsopen-sourceopen-source-gamespatchpatchesplaneshiftupdatesSat, 14 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Big news edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-mmo-report-big-news-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-mmo-report-big-news-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-mmo-report-big-news-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This is madness. Just madness.
The MMO Report has some big news this week, and no, it's not about the fact that it's secretly carrying your baby. Nor is it even tied to all of the various big news that the show has this week, and there is quite a bit of that. Obviously, there's the new patch for Star Wars: The Old Republic, and there's also the first in-game footage of both World of Darkness and Defiance, but those aren't the big reveal in the news.

So what is it? Well, while we'd normally promise that there's going to be a new episode next week from G4 and Massively, this week it's not quite so clear-cut. The show is going on a brief hiatus for reasons that we'll allow the show itself to explain. So hop on past the break for more MMO news, and tune in when the hiatus ends for another episode. You can keep checking back here forlornly, however. We won't hold it against you.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Big news edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Big news edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey-schreinerdefiancehiatushumormmo-reportnewsopinionroundupstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-mmo-reportupdatesvideovideoswodworld-of-darknessThu, 12 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Abduct yourself a UFO Online beta key from Massively!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/abduct-yourself-a-ufo-online-beta-key-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/abduct-yourself-a-ufo-online-beta-key-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/abduct-yourself-a-ufo-online-beta-key-from-massively/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Technically, UFO just refers to an unidentified aircraft. So, really, this could just be a game about looking up in the sky and not being sure what kind of plane that is. And then shooting someone.
You've seen our first impressions -- does that make you want to get in on UFO Online? For a lot of people, that's not quite possible yet, seeing as how the game is still in closed beta testing. However, as in the past, the team at Massively has you covered. Thanks to the folks over at gamigo, we've got 2,000 keys for the second closed beta test, and we're handing them out to whoever wants one.

If you're up for some tactical browser action, go ahead and click the button below, grab a code, then enter it in the appropriate spot on the front page of the official site. After that, you should be golden. Luckily, unlike many other betas, this one doesn't make you worry about a cumbersome client download since the entire game plays in your browser. So grab yourself a key, and please, go gentle with your probing of the game. It's still in testing.

GET YOUR KEY

MassivelyAbduct yourself a UFO Online beta key from Massively! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-keysbeta-testingbrowserbrowser-gameclosed-betagamigogiveawaysnewsufo-onlineWed, 11 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion: Ascension launches and class begins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/aion-ascension-launches-and-class-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/aion-ascension-launches-and-class-begins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/aion-ascension-launches-and-class-begins/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Aion screenshot
And we have lift off! Aion Ascension has launched at last, and finally, some of those tidbits we were teased with in the notorious Visions Trailer are in-game. Housing! Mounts! New Zones! Choirs of winged Daevas singing!

Not only are these much anticipated features available, but the new Truly Free business model has now made its way to another NCsoft title. Edward Chang, Director of Product Management at NCsoft, states,
"We started converting current players to the new business model late last week in preparation for today's launch and we couldn't be happier with the response, tripling concurrency in a matter of hours. We spent a considerable amount of time focused on optimizing Aion Ascension for the Truly Free business model, and early feedback from the community indicates that we made the right decisions."
What more could be added to this good news? How about a free introductory course of helpful hints to offer Daevas a little boost! It just so happens we have the syllabus for Ascension 101 right here, penned by none other than Producer Adam Christensen. Read on for Adam's very own tips and tricks for the 3.0 patch. Don't worry -- there won't be a quiz at the end!

Continue reading Aion: Ascension launches and class begins

MassivelyAion: Ascension launches and class begins originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Adam-ChristensenaionAscensionexclusiveexclusive-guidef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playguideguidesncsoftnewspatchpatchestruly-freeWed, 11 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 prepares to send players to Avalon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/wizard101-prepares-to-send-players-to-avalon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/wizard101-prepares-to-send-players-to-avalon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/wizard101-prepares-to-send-players-to-avalon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Yeah, yeah, what's behind me, I know. Very funny.
Wizard101 always sends its players to fantastic new places with each expansion. Obviously the bar is set pretty high when the core game already features a magical setting, but each new zone seems to aim at a very different location. The upcoming new expansion Avalon is no exception; it's sending players into a realm filled with fallen knights, warrior queens, and other elements inspired by Arthurian and Celtic myths. It also gives players a chance to explore the pasts of several important lore characters, such as the villainous Morganthe.

But lore alone doesn't make for a fun expansion. Avalon also offers players four new utility spells per school, new pets and mounts, and six new zones to explore as characters head to the new level cap of 80. There are also new gardening levels and new gardening spells, certain to bring a smile to the face of every burgeoning virtual botanist. So if you feel like you've seen all there is to see in Wizard101, don't worry -- that'll change soon enough.

[Source: KingsIsle press release]

MassivelyWizard101 prepares to send players to Avalon originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avalonexpansionf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentnewspatchpatchesupdatewizard101wizard101-avalonMon, 09 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Meet Diablo III's demon hunter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/not-so-massively-meet-diablo-iiis-demon-hunter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
With five weeks left until Diablo III launches, Blizzard started its pre-launch marketing campaign this week with a new series exploring each of the five classes. This week kicks off with a preview of the Demon Hunter. Meanwhile, Torchlight II revealed details of a new charge bar mechanic designed to keep a rapid pace of action, and dungeon crawler Path of Exile started gearing up for release with some tempting pre-order packages.

Penny Arcade made a guest appearance in League of Legends this week with a special comic introducing upcoming champion Varus. Riot also revealed the next champion due for release, armoured spectral warrior Hecarim. Rise of Immortals got the Penny Arcade treatment this week too when joke character Karapyss the Crabomancer was actually released. Bloodline Champions launched an Easter egg painting contest this week and asked players whether grades should be reset for the current competitive season.

Blacklight: Retribution officially launched this week and celebrated with the release of its first new gun, the heavy assault rifle. Finally, Wrath of heroes released its first hero spotlight video this week, introducing hybrid damage-dealer Nethys.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Meet Diablo III's demon hunter

MassivelyNot So Massively: Meet Diablo III's demon hunter originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbattlenetbiowareblacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championschampionchampionscomiccompetitive-gamingcrabomancercrabomancyd3demon-hunterdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportseaeasterelectronic-artsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheavy-assault-riflehecarimkarapysskarapyss-the-crabomancerleague-of-legendslolMicrotransactionsmmofpsmobamultiplayermythicmythic-entertainmentnethysnewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exilepenny-arcadeperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvppweriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunic-gamesstunlockstunlock-studiosvanusvideowarhammerwarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroeswrath-of-the-lich-kingMon, 09 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Shut up about Mass Effect edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-mmo-report-shut-up-about-mass-effect-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-mmo-report-shut-up-about-mass-effect-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-mmo-report-shut-up-about-mass-effect-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey tells everyone to stop whining about Mass Effect 3's ending, laments the loss of the "online" part of Warhammer 40K: Dark Millennium Online, touches on the World of Darkness keynote, and outlines The Secret World's preorder plans. He also reveals the identity of one of TERA's key voice actors: Michael Hogan (of Battlestar Galactica fame), who will play Samael in the final game. Finally, he pulls one measly letter from the mailbag and debates which class he represents in TERA.

Enjoy the full MMO Report after the cut!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Shut up about Mass Effect edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Shut up about Mass Effect edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioscasey-schreinerccpccp-gamesdark-millenniumdark-millennium-onlinedmoen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfactionfantasyfuncomgothichorrorhumormass-effect-3me3michael-hoganmmo-reportmythologynewsopinionroundupsamaelsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedsupernaturalterathe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtswvampirevampiresvideovideosvigilvigil-gamesvoice-actorvoice-overwar40kwar40k-dmowarhammerwarhammer-40000-dark-millennium-onlinewarhammer-40kwarhammer-40k-dark-millennium-onlinewhite-wolfwodworld-of-darknessThu, 05 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: April fool's edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/not-so-massively-april-fools-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/not-so-massively-april-fools-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/not-so-massively-april-fools-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
It's that time of year again when we all forget to check our calendars and get suckered into believing outrageous April Fool's gags. This week's Not So Massively is a blend of yesterday's joke posts and the week's real news from games that aren't quite MMOs. League of Legends announced a joke 3-D mode, released the winners of the I Heart LoL contest, and delved into the game's North American playerbase as part of the ongoing world tour. Dota 2 added classic hero Lone Druid this week, and Firefall revealed its plans to scale up the beta soon.

Heroes of Newerth launched a new art contest and released its new mobile ganker Blitz, while Bloodline Champions laid on the April Fool's mischief with its Catch the Ranid game mode announcement and plans for a tournament with cheeseburgers for prizes. Rise of Immortals joined in the festivities with the announcement of its new immortal Karapyss the Crabomancer.

Blacklight: Retribution explained its datanode system and released a new troll face taunt, and Diablo III teased players with its joke Zergotchi authenticator. Diablo fansite Diablofans revealed changes to the upcoming game's Inferno mode and wrote a great April Fool's joke about releasing on the Wii. Path of Exile took a step closer to launch with a public stress test this weekend, and Torchlight II revealed the game's pets and announced that the latest build of the game will be playable at PAX East.

Continue reading Not So Massively: April fool's edition

MassivelyNot So Massively: April fool's edition originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgapril-foolsapril-fools-2012battlenetblacklightblacklight-retributionBlitzblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbloodline-championscatch-the-ranidcompetitive-gamingcrabomancercrabomancyd3datanodesdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroheroes-of-newerthhoninfernoinferno-modekarapyssleague-of-legendslollone-druidmmofpsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayerpath-of-exilepenny-arcadeperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvppwered-5-studiosriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgs2s2-gamesstunlockstunlock-studiosvideozergotchizombie-studiosMon, 02 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Online Entertainment offers an updated ProSiebenSat.1 FAQ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/sony-online-entertainment-offers-an-updated-prosiebensat-1-faq/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/sony-online-entertainment-offers-an-updated-prosiebensat-1-faq/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/sony-online-entertainment-offers-an-updated-prosiebensat-1-faq/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Presumably, this is not what PSS1's customer support team will look like in EQ2. But you never know.
If you're in Europe and playing EverQuest II, DC Universe Online, or many other Sony Online Entertainment games, you're probably aware that a major change is on the horizon. The company has signed an agreement with ProSiebenSat.1, giving that company a great deal of control over the publication and operation of SOE's games in the region. There was some backlash over the change, as players were in particular concerned about being forced to play on specific servers.

While some of the details have already been addressed, SOE seeks to remedy a variety of player concerns with an updated FAQ detailing exactly what will take place when the service changes hands. Worth noting is that Station Cash will be converted into a similar but proprietary currency and all customer service issues will be handled by ProSiebenSat.1. Players will also need to make a new account with ProSiebenSat.1, although their old SOE accounts will still be used for certain games, such as the original EverQuest. If you're one of the many players affected by the change, there's no time like the present to take a look at what you can expect.

MassivelySony Online Entertainment offers an updated ProSiebenSat.1 FAQ originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changeovereuropeeuropeaneuropean-regionf2pfaqfree-to-playnewsprosiebensatprosiebensat.1prosiebensat.1-changeoverservicesoesonysony-online-entertainmentSun, 01 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Horsesteak edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-mmo-report-horsesteak-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-mmo-report-horsesteak-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-mmo-report-horsesteak-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The MMO Report
In tonight's ultra-short MMO Report, Casey complains that Phantasy Star Online 2 will launch for mobile platforms ahead of PC, drools all over the integration of DUST 514 and EVE Online, maintains a weirdly neutral face while discussing Anarchy Online's graphical overhaul, and regales us with an explanation of The Secret World's class-less game mechanics. He ends on a high note with a peek into Uncle Casey's mailbag and some mockery of World of Warcraft players' forum campaign to undo the latest round of Warlock nerfs. No one's ever done that before.

All this and some tips on Icelandic cuisine in the video beyond the cut!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Horsesteak edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Horsesteak edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanarchy-onlineaoblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcasey-schreinerccpccp-gamesdustdust-514eveeve-fanfest-2012eve-onlinefanfest-2012funcomhorrorhumoricelandmmo-reportnewsopinionPhantasy-Star-Online-2pso2roundupsecret-worldthe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtswvideovideosworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 29 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: MOBAs, shooters, and dungeon crawlers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/not-so-massively-mobas-shooters-and-dungeon-crawlers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/not-so-massively-mobas-shooters-and-dungeon-crawlers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/not-so-massively-mobas-shooters-and-dungeon-crawlers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
This week's Torchlight II developer update visits the game's animation department, and Path of Exile reset all beta players' passive skills this week following the launch of patch 0.9.7. Blacklight: Retribution revealed some impressive usage statistics from its first few weeks of open beta, and Firefall showed off its impressive Mourningstar and Typhon costumes at gaming convention SXSW.

In the world of MOBAs, League of Legends released its new champion Lulu this week and published her official champion spotlight video. Dota 2 added classic hero Lycan and introduced a new private rating system to help players track which heroes they're good at playing. Finally, Wrath of Heroes has entered open beta and is already selling items in its cash shop.

Continue reading Not So Massively: MOBAs, shooters, and dungeon crawlers

MassivelyNot So Massively: MOBAs, shooters, and dungeon crawlers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobiowareblacklightblacklight-retributioncolin-turnercompetitive-gamingdiablodotae-sporte-sportseaelectronic-artsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesleague-of-legendslollululycanmatt-danielmatt-leffertsmmofpsmobaMourningstarmythicmythic-entertainmentnewsnot-so-massivelynsmpath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpoepvppwered-5-studiosriotriot-gamesround-uproundupsupportsxswsxsw-2012typhonvalvevideowarhammerwarhammer-wrath-of-heroeswohwrath-of-heroesyordlezombie-studiosMon, 26 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST