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[One Shots: Bamboo Kat's]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/one-shots-bamboo-kats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/one-shots-bamboo-kats/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/one-shots-bamboo-kats/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

One Shots
If you followed MJ's Choose My Adventure in City of Heroes throughout the month of May, you know that veterans constantly recommended that she do one thing: roll blueside. More people play superheroes than villains, and if you want to group, Paragon City is the place. But I say the villains of the Rogue Isles surely have the best scenery. Massively reader Jeromai chipped in two gorgeous shots of the grimy skyscrapers of redside with this note:
One of my favorite spots villain-side is the Jackpot area of St. Martial, especially when it gets dark and the building lights are a stark contrast to the gloom of all the other previous zones. Sure, it's still a soulless Las Vegas-style strip wannabe, but I love super-jumping down the street as the music changes. This is my normal view of things when super-jumping. But if you get down to street-level, it's also surprisingly immersive. Notice the Marcone or Family gangster leaning nonchalantly against one building as the cars and pedestrians cruise through.
Both shots (and a few others) are tucked behind the break!

Continue reading One Shots: Bamboo Kat's

MassivelyOne Shots: Bamboo Kat's originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionbamboo-katsbetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentbluesidebring-back-one-shotscity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxf2pfantasyfree-to-playfreedomgalleriesgallerymists-of-pandariamopmop-betancsoftnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentone-shotspandarenparagonparagon-studiosreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsredsidescreenshotscreenshotssuperherosuperheroesuser-submissionsvindictuswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 27 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FTC to investigate Nexon's alleged hostile takeover of Gamania]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/ftc-to-investigate-nexons-alleged-hostile-takeover-of-gamania/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/ftc-to-investigate-nexons-alleged-hostile-takeover-of-gamania/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/ftc-to-investigate-nexons-alleged-hostile-takeover-of-gamania/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nexon, Gamania logos
Nexon's recent acquisition of Taiwanese publisher Gamania will be scrutinized by the Fair Trade Commission (FTC), according to a report in the Taipei Times. A hostile takeover is alleged, and FTC chairman Wu Shiow-ming said the commission will "ask Nexon to comment on its definition of Gamania's market share, the particular field it defines Gamania as being in, and its current relations with Gamania."

This will help determine whether Nexon has violated the Fair Trade Act, which mandates that any merger involving a company with more than 25% market share in a particular field must be reported to authorities.

Gamania contacted the FTC, ostensibly out of concern for Nexon's impact on the Taiwanese gaming industry. "It would be absolutely detrimental to the development of Taiwan's online gaming industry if a large-scale foreign corporation was allowed to take control of the local industry's operating channels and resources, whether the integration is horizontal or vertical," the company said.

MassivelyFTC to investigate Nexon's alleged hostile takeover of Gamania originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fair-trade-comissionfinancialsftcgamaniagamania-takeoverhostile-takeoverlegalmmo-industrynexonnexon-takeoverTue, 22 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vindictus EU update features two new raid bosses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Vindictus - Glas Gobbledegook something or other
This must be the day for sexy MMO news. On the heels of one risque announcement, we have a trailer for the latest Vindictus EU update that features a scantily clad lass named Succubus and a demonic colossal called Glas Ghaibheleann. Succubus is, well, a succubus, and she's also a raid boss who will challenge players like no other.

Except for maybe Glas Ghaibheleann. He's also a raid boss. While he's not quite as attractive as his partner-in-crime, he's equally deadly. Nexon says that the pair will awe players with their appearance and unique abilities. Get a load of the latest Vindictus EU update in the video after the cut.

[Source: Nexon Europe press release]

Continue reading Vindictus EU update features two new raid bosses

MassivelyVindictus EU update features two new raid bosses originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playglas-ghaibheleannnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentnexon-europeraidraidingraidssuccubustrailervideovindictusvindictus-euvindictus-europevindictus-raid-bossvindictus-raid-bossesMon, 21 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MapleStory 7th Anniversary
Do you feel lucky, MapleStory players? You should, because Nexon is celebrating the game's lucky seventh anniversary, and the studio is passing the good fortune on to the players with a series of in-game events and double experience weekends.

For the duration of the month, players will be treated not only to double experience and drops every weekend, but they'll also be able to take part in events such as the Maple Rising Star Contest, which requires players to complete tasks to show support for their favorite NPC contestant. And of course, no anniversary would be complete without a visit from the deliciously vicious Cake Boss monster, which combines a challenging battle and a tasty treat into one mutant monstrosity. To put the icing on the proverbial cake, Nexon has released a short anniversary trailer that recaps the major MapleStory events of the past year, so put on your party hats and join the festivities after the cut.

[Source: Nexon America press release]

Continue reading MapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters

MassivelyMapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7th-anniversaryanniversarydouble-experience-weekenddouble-xpdouble-xp-weekenddouble-xp-weekendseventsf2pfantasyfree-to-playin-game-eventin-game-eventsmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreaseventh-anniversarytrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 11 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon grows in Korea and China, 'underwhelms' in America]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/nexon-grows-in-korea-and-china-underwhelms-in-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/nexon-grows-in-korea-and-china-underwhelms-in-america/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/nexon-grows-in-korea-and-china-underwhelms-in-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nexon logo
Free-to-play is generating big bucks for Nexon. Who knew, right? The Korean gaming giant's profitability is profiled in a brief blurb at Gamasutra that focuses on Q1 2012 results.

Nexon exceeded its first-quarter performance projections on the strength of F2P growth in the Korean and Chinese gaming markets. These gains were "slightly offset by an underwhelming performance for its games [in] North America," which was blamed on "certain operational challenges."

Though Nexon's monthly active user count declined from 86.2 million to 82.8 million, its paying user rate increased (from 8.3 to 10.9 percent in year-over-year comparisons).

MassivelyNexon grows in Korea and China, 'underwhelms' in America originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>duhf2pfinancial-newsfinancialsfree-to-playnexonnexon-americanexon-koreaThu, 10 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory proclaims Alliance Eternal this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/maplestory-proclaims-alliance-eternal-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/maplestory-proclaims-alliance-eternal-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/maplestory-proclaims-alliance-eternal-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MapleStory
With this week's Alliance Eternal patch in MapleStory, Nexon has returned the balance of the classes to where it should be. The final update in the Alliance trilogy focuses on Cygnus Knights and Explorer classes, retuning them and bringing their power levels back up to par with the classes that received developer love with the previous updates.

Alliance Eternal has a few other fun surprises for players. Level 120 characters can hop through a Dimensional Schism and take on the sinister-sounding Arkarium, while Cygnus Knights level 110 or above have new quest chains to investigate.

Nexon's also looking forward to the coming months. MapleStory will hit its seven-year anniversary in May, and players should expect a big bash when that happens. The devs also teased a "big summer content release" on the horizon with two new characters including the Phantom hero.

MassivelyMapleStory proclaims Alliance Eternal this week originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliance-eternalalliance-eternal-patchalliance-eternal-updatebalanceCygnus-Knightexplorerf2pfantasyfree-to-playmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreapatchrebalancingupdateMon, 23 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bunnies at church
Whether you're an Easter traditionalist or you simply need an excuse to eat a chocolate bunny, it's that time of year again. It's also time for a few of our favorite MMO devs to don their silly hats and introduce all manner of egg hunts and contests into games like RuneScape, Runes of Magic, and World of Warcraft.

That's just the tip of the Easter event iceberg; you'll find several more festively inclined titles in our roundup after the cut. Before you hop on over, have a look at the two bunnies above and repeat after us: d'awww.

Continue reading Massively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition

MassivelyMassively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionanetarenanetatlanticaatlantica-onlineblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmodragon-nesteastereaster-2012easter-eventseaster-roundupeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieventseverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactiveguild-warsgwholiday-roundupin-game-eventsjagexjagex-games-studioncsoftnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentnexon-korearomrounduprsrunes-of-magicrunescaperunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxscarlet-legacysoesonysony-online-entertainmenttaboreatactical-mmovindictuswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 07 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE launches in Japan, adds multilingual search tool]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/eve-launches-in-japan-adds-multilingual-search-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/eve-launches-in-japan-adds-multilingual-search-tool/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/eve-launches-in-japan-adds-multilingual-search-tool/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online - shieldship wallpaper
Japanese sandbox fans are saying domo arigato this morning as CCP and Nexon have officially launched a localized version of EVE Online in the land of the rising sun.

Japan boasts the world's fourth largest gaming community, and CCP has added it to an impressive list of conquests that include English-, Chinese-, Russian-, and German-speaking markets. The company is handling all of the game-related conversion tasks via its in-house localization system, while Nexon is responsible for various marketing and support initiatives.

CCP has also added a multilingual search tool to the EVE client. The new functionality "helps weld the disparate language groups present in EVE into a more global and unified game experience -- truly demonstrating the impact and value of the single shard server model," says senior producer Jon Lander.

[Source: CCP press release]

MassivelyEVE launches in Japan, adds multilingual search tool originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-japaneve-nexoneve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsjapanese-evejon-landerlocalizationmultilingual-search-toolnew-edennexonnexon-evesandboxsci-fisingle-serversingle-shardTue, 03 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory gets political, players respond with bewilderment]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/maplestory-gets-political-players-respond-with-bewilderment/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/maplestory-gets-political-players-respond-with-bewilderment/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/maplestory-gets-political-players-respond-with-bewilderment/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Pictured: MapleStory. Not pictured: political acumen.
It's an election year in the United States, and that means that it's time to start polling for opinions across the country. If the country goes the path of MapleStory, the incumbent President has nothing to worry about. A survey of 1,655 random MapleStory players was conducted this past weekend, with 47.79% claiming that Barack Obama had made the most positive impact out of the current candidates. The runner-up? Abject confusion. More than 20% of respondents did not recognize any of the names involved.

The respondents were also polled on the most important issue facing the presidential candidates, with unemployment taking the top spot (40%) and the gap between rich and poor taking second place (28%). It's not necessarily indicative of much, but even though it's an informal poll conducted by Nexon America of a fairly random playerbase, there's a staggering degree of confusion at work. Or MapleStory players really like President Obama, one or the other.

MassivelyMapleStory gets political, players respond with bewilderment originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturef2pfantasyfree-to-playmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreapolitical-pollpoliticssurveysurveyswhat-is-this-i-cant-evenTue, 27 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vindictus brings out a dragon with accompanying ink]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/vindictus-brings-out-a-dragon-with-accompanying-ink/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/vindictus-brings-out-a-dragon-with-accompanying-ink/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/vindictus-brings-out-a-dragon-with-accompanying-ink/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In any fantasy game, downing a dragon is what you want. Sure, there might be other monsters that are technically stronger, but nothing else has quite the feel of straight-up slaying a dragon. Nexon realizes this, which is why the strongest foe in Vindictus' latest game update, is the massive dragon Elchulus. Players will need to have quite the team to bring down this massive foe, as a full raid of 24 characters at level 40 are required to slay the beast.

The update also adds a lower-level raid for levels 20 and 30 as well as some brand-new tattoos to help signify your battle against the scaly menace. You can buy new tattoos, or you can face off against the new bosses and have a chance at winning one for free. Not quite convinced? Then take a look at the dragon in action just past the break, and see if you don't have a sudden urge to put a flying lizard in its place.

Continue reading Vindictus brings out a dragon with accompanying ink

MassivelyVindictus brings out a dragon with accompanying ink originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobossesdragonsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-updatesinternet-dragonsnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentpatchesraidstrailertrailersupdateupdatesvideovideosvindictusFri, 23 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlantica Online clocks its millionth player]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/atlantica-online-clocks-its-millionth-player/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/atlantica-online-clocks-its-millionth-player/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/atlantica-online-clocks-its-millionth-player/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Atlantica Online
After a big push for players to rope in their friends, Nexon is finally able to announce that Atlantica Online has reached the one million player mark -- and there's no looking back from here.

The millionth player was DevilsRuler of Sikyon, and he or she will receive a million NX (item shop currency) and a title that comes with a substantial attack and XP boost. As if a million people to have picked up Atlantica Online wasn't enough, Nexon is boasting a few other impressive stats. To date, over 2.2 million characters have been created, 1.6 million "friend pairs" created, and 18,866 homes built.

To celebrate this substantial milestone, Nexon is hosting Atlantica Day on Saturday, March 25th. Players who log in between 5:00 and 5:10 p.m. EDT will be granted a "Time's Witness" title that can be triggered for an attack power and defense buff.

[Source: Nexon press release]

MassivelyAtlantica Online clocks its millionth player originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlanticaatlantica-dayatlantica-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playin-game-eventmilestonemillion-playersmillionth-playernexonnexon-americanexon-koreaone-million-playerstactical-mmoFri, 23 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Becoming a mediocre trader in several free titles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/free-for-all-becoming-a-mediocre-trader-in-several-free-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/free-for-all-becoming-a-mediocre-trader-in-several-free-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/free-for-all-becoming-a-mediocre-trader-in-several-free-titles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi ship banner
I often find myself achieving little things in many different games while other gamer buddies of mine are busily conquering actual gods or dragons within one or two particular titles. Sure, I would love to join a group of battleworn adventurers as they took down one of the final bosses in almost any game, but I rarely find the time to work a character into the ranks of the ascended.

OK, so I have time, but not if I wanted to do what I do here. That is to say, I am not dedicated to one game because it is my job to tell you readers about several games. About every game. About as many games as possible. I can't do that while maintaining a high DPS score. It's a give and take, but I love to explore, fortunately.

Let me tell you about how I love to trade or craft in some of my favorite titles and why it's important to me.

Continue reading Free for All: Becoming a mediocre trader in several free titles

MassivelyFree for All: Becoming a mediocre trader in several free titles originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-mmoclassic-mmocode-clubcraftingf2pfantasyfeaturedffafletchingfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpglitchjagexjagex-games-studiomabinoginexonopinionparallel-kingdomperbluersrunescapesandboxtiny-specktradetradingvelvet-ropewurmwurm-onlineWed, 21 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory allies against aliens]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/maplestory-allies-against-aliens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/maplestory-allies-against-aliens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/maplestory-allies-against-aliens/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MapleStory
It's a bad day to be an alien in MapleStory -- and a good day to be a player. Nexon has released its latest major update for the game, Alliance Unbound, and it's placing a bounty on every E.T. and Klingon you can find. Nasty space critters are causing town-demolishing earthquakes in the area, and what's worse is that their technology is somewhat more advanced than swords or clubs.

While a majority of the content for Alliance Unbound is for high-level characters, there's still plenty for lowbies to do as well. The main update quest line opens up at level 15 and offers both a high- and low-level version.

The update has plenty of meat to it in other ways. A gigantic 31-part quest chain has been added to Ellin Forest for level 95s in which players will jump back in time and explore the making of one of the key regions in the game. There's also a nifty and powerful alien socket system that grants players the ability to upgrade weapons. Finally, Nexon's got plenty of new Event Cards and a collection system to keep players busy.

MassivelyMapleStory allies against aliens originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alienaliensalliance-unboundEllin-Forestetevent-cardsf2pfantasyfree-to-playklingonmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreapatchupdateweapon-modificationFri, 16 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online invading Japan March 28th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/eve-online-invading-japan-march-28th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/eve-online-invading-japan-march-28th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/eve-online-invading-japan-march-28th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online - Rifter vs. pirates
EVE Online has already captured the hearts and minds of sandbox gamers in Europe and America. Now, CCP is intent on bringing its sci-fi MMO to Japan (which boasts the world's fourth largest online gaming market).

Beginning March 28th, Japanese players will experience New Eden in their native language. True to form, however, is CCP's decision to dump all of its worldwide playerbase into the melting pot that is the Tranquility server. The firm is also partnering with Korean free-to-play giant Nexon to make the deal happen, with the latter handling billing services as well as marketing and PR duties while CCP focuses on development.

[Source: CCP press release]

MassivelyEVE Online invading Japan March 28th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesccp-nexoneveeve-japaneve-onlineeve-online-japannew-edennexonsandboxsci-fitranquilityThu, 01 Mar 2012 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Vindictus has the beatdown, and so do other players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/vindictus-has-the-beatdown-and-so-do-other-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/vindictus-has-the-beatdown-and-so-do-other-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/vindictus-has-the-beatdown-and-so-do-other-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Technically, any words are fighting words if you say them right before a fight. Including 'who wants a hamburger?'
Vindictus has long given players a variety of ways to smash enemy creatures into the ground, and it's had plenty of players. But remarkably, the game has been missing ways to smash those players into the ground, an oversight that the game's new PvP patch is addressing through obvious means. Having just hit the live servers, the new patch allows for a variety of skirmishes between players as well as offers the obligatory rewards for settling disputes like violent, heavily armed men with poor impulse control.

The game offers two options for PvP. Capture the Relic is... well, replace "relic" with "flag" and you probably have a good idea. Monster Brawl, meanwhile, pits two teams against one another with each team fighting alongside a boss monster -- keep your monster alive while killing the other team's beast and you win. Players can also unlock powerful rewards in the form of buff items, a nice incentive for those not already motivated by the simple joy of smashing another player's face in.

MassivelyVindictus has the beatdown, and so do other players originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmocapture-the-flagcapture-the-relicf2pfree-to-playgame-updatesmonster-brawlnewsnexonpatchpatchespvppvp-modespvp-rewardspvp-updateupdatevindictusMon, 27 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Dark Ages]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/rise-and-shiny-recap-dark-ages/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/rise-and-shiny-recap-dark-ages/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/rise-and-shiny-recap-dark-ages/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Ages screenshot
Some games grab you from the moment you see them. Sure, I get grabbed a lot, but I know when a game appears to be different or interesting. As I watched Adventure Mike play Nexus: Kingdom of the Winds on MassivelyTV over the last few weeks, I knew that I had to play it. But wait! Mike was playing it himself and doing a good job of exploring the game for the viewers. I couldn't just take that first impression from him and claim it as mine!

So I looked up KRU Interactive, found out its cool history with Nexon games, and decided to try Dark Ages instead. It looks similar to Nexus, so I thought I would be in for a great time.

The very first thing that I came across after logging into the game was a description of waking up in an inn room. It was a mysterious beginning, and I loved how the moment reminded me of how often our characters are just thrown into a world without much of a cutscene or explanation.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Dark Ages

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Dark Ages originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8bitbeau-hindmandark-agesf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpkru-interactiveLiveStreamLiveStreamingmabinogimassively-tvmassivelytvNeoWiznexonrise-and-shinyrise-and-shiny-recapseven-souls-onlinetwitch-tvtwitchtvvideowurm-onlineSun, 26 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Fiesta Online browser version]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/rise-and-shiny-recap-fiesta-online-browser-version/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/rise-and-shiny-recap-fiesta-online-browser-version/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/rise-and-shiny-recap-fiesta-online-browser-version/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Fiesta Online screenshot
Fiesta Online is getting pretty long in the tooth. Heck, it's a game I have played and returned to several times over the years, and I've never quite stuck with it. Don't get me wrong -- the game is quite nice-looking for its style and always seems to have a ton of players on, but there are a lot of titles I would love to be spending time with. Unfortunately, I have to pick and choose, and a game like Fiesta Online will normally land on the list of games that I play very infrequently. I had a great time recently when I toured some high-level content with the developers and was more excited to hear about a browser version of the game coming out soon.

Why would a browser version matter? I have predicted (and I am still sticking by this prediction) that most MMO content will be delivered via the browser within five years. The truth is that most MMO players probably play a browser game already, especially when you consider games like RuneScape, Dark Orbit, Battlestar Galactica Online, Club Penguin and scores of others, but I mean to say that the browser will become the accepted way to get your MMO content. Yes, one day we will look back, giggle, and say, "We used to download and install massive files just to play a game!"

So how does Fiesta Online's browser version perform, and what is the point of having one in the first place?

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Fiesta Online browser version

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Fiesta Online browser version originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-mmof2pfeaturedFiestafiesta-onlinefree-to-playftpLiveStreamNexonnexus-kingdom-of-the-windoutsparkrise-and-shinytwitchtwitch-tvSun, 19 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vindictus Europe video shows off new boss, new hero]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/vindictus-europe-video-shows-off-new-boss-new-hero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/vindictus-europe-video-shows-off-new-boss-new-hero/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/vindictus-europe-video-shows-off-new-boss-new-hero/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Vindictus Europe - Thor
The latest Vindictus Europe video has a scary new boss monster on display. Nexon is introducing Thor (no, not that Thor), a giant crocodile-like creature with three mouths and a nasty disposition.

Nexon describes Thor as an "outlaw of the dark and damp underworld," and the trailer shows a cross-section of Vindictus heroes slicing and dicing the new monster using the title's unique action combat mechanics.

While we're on the subject of heroes, the video also teases the latest Vindictus Europe playable character, a giant brawler named Karok. Check out all the gory details after the cut.

[Source: Nexon Europe press release]

Continue reading Vindictus Europe video shows off new boss, new hero

MassivelyVindictus Europe video shows off new boss, new hero originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bossesbrawlerclassesf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicskaroknexonnexon-europethorvideovindictusvindictus-europeWed, 08 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Winner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
If you are familiar with the Mabinogi-hosted contest from November called The Merchant of Venice, California, then you know that the popular free-to-play developer and publisher Nexon asked players to participate in order to win a free trip to the company's California studios to play, relax and discuss the new content. The event celebrated the release of the Merchant of Venice update. The addition gave players the ability to literally transport goods across the lands of Mabinogi. Players gain levels, earn in-game cash that can be used to buy special items and weapons, and gain access to better items to be traded. All expansions in the popular free-to-play title are free.

Sayre, a player from the Mari server, was invited to meet the developers, tour the office and even give some advice about how to make the game better. He received a free Alienware computer, 500 USD in cash and three nights in a hotel right on Venice Beach! In order to qualify for the contest drawing, players were required to have reached merchant level 9 in each of the game's towns.

Click past the cut to watch an exclusive preview of the tour!

Continue reading Winner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted

MassivelyWinner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancontestexpansionf2pfree-to-playftpmabinogimerchant-of-venicenexonnexon-americavideoTue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Studios join forces to form Gamer Safety Alliance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/studios-join-forces-to-form-gamer-safety-alliance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/studios-join-forces-to-form-gamer-safety-alliance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/studios-join-forces-to-form-gamer-safety-alliance/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Gamer Safety Alliance logo
This week is Gamer Safety Week, and before you laugh at the thought of getting injured while playing your favorite MMO, we should point out that the safety has more to do with your accounts than your person.

Nine major game companies have joined forces to form the Gamer Safety Alliance, an organization that seeks "to break down traditional competitive barriers and share information and best practices within the computer and video game industry."

Participating firms include Electronic Arts, Microsoft, Turbine, NCsoft, Nexon, Square Enix, Sony Online Entertainment, MindCandy, and En Masse Entertainment. SOE leads things off with a lengthy article on how to protect yourself from account fraud.

MassivelyStudios join forces to form Gamer Safety Alliance originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-safetyaccountseaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentgamer-safety-alliancemerchant-risk-councilmicrosoftmind-candymindcandyncsoftnexonnexon-americasoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsquare-enixturbineTurbine-EntertainmentTue, 07 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play three Nexon MMOs, get this car]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-three-nexon-mmos-get-this-car/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-three-nexon-mmos-get-this-car/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-three-nexon-mmos-get-this-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Nexon Hat Trick Contest
Did that grab your attention? Nexon is sure hoping it did, as the company is in the throes of its "Get a Hat Trick!" promotion. For the next month and a half, players who dive into Vindictus, Dragon Nest, and Dungeon Fighter Online and get to level 20 in all three games will have a shot at several nice prizes -- including the above 2012 BMW M3. So, in effect, just by playing MMOs, you could be netting yourself one of the sweetest rides in town.

While Nexon has already handed out awards for the third and fourth place winners, there are still prizes left for aspiring gamers. First of all, everyone who gets a hat trick (as defined by achieving level 20 in the above three titles) will be treated to $20 worth of in-game items. Additionally, three players will get an Alienware Aurora desktop computer, and 30 people will win $50 "Karma Koins."

As for the Beemer, the prize will only be unlocked if 30,000 players achieve hat tricks by March 15th -- and even then, only one car will be given away after that. So good luck and may the game be with you!

MassivelyPlay three Nexon MMOs, get this car originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012-bmw-m3alienwarealienware-aurorabeemerbmwbmw-m3contestdragon-nestdungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfree-to-playget-a-hat-trickgiveawayhat-trickkarma-koinsnexonnexon-americapromotionvindictusThu, 02 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vindictus invites players to explore sewers and fight with monsters in newest update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/vindictus-invites-players-to-explore-sewers-and-fight-with-monst/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/vindictus-invites-players-to-explore-sewers-and-fight-with-monst/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/vindictus-invites-players-to-explore-sewers-and-fight-with-monst/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Fighting... LIKE A BOSS.
Nexon Europe is pushing Vindictus forward with the game's newest update, which brings two large content improvements to the game. Players mostly interested in the PvE side of the game can start investigating Rocheste's sewers, braving dangerous beasts in the hopes of obtaining new treasures and three new armor types. Fortunately, the three characters of the game each receive a new skill to go along with all of the dangerous, hopefully making it just a little easier to tear through whatever lies beneath.

If you'd rather go for the PvP route, however, the update is introducing a new combat mode known as M-Match. It's two teams of players pitted against one another, with the added twist that each side has a boss monster under its control. The first team to take out the opposing team's boss is the winner. The new arena also contains a number of chained boss fights for players to pit themselves against, either one at a time or multiple bosses in sequence, just to reward players who decide to hack their way through greater challenges.

[Source: Nexon Europe press release]

Continue reading Vindictus invites players to explore sewers and fight with monsters in newest update

MassivelyVindictus invites players to explore sewers and fight with monsters in newest update originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenabossboss-monstersbossescontentm-matchmonstersnexonnexon-europepatchespvppvp-modesquestssewersupdatesvindictusWed, 18 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon signs agreement with Unity Technologies for development platform]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/nexon-signs-agreement-with-unity-technologies-for-development-pl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/nexon-signs-agreement-with-unity-technologies-for-development-pl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/nexon-signs-agreement-with-unity-technologies-for-development-pl/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nexon logo. It's hard to screencap a business agreement.
If you know MMOs, odds are good you know what Nexon is -- one of the biggest free-to-play publishers in South Korea with a stable of several games that have been quite successful in the US as well. You may not know of Unity Technologies, however. That may well change, as Nexon has just signed a license agreement with Unity Technologies to allow the company the rights to utilize the Unity development platform for further projects.

The Unity platform is meant to allow easier deployment of applications to alternative platforms, with the platform being in place for browsers, iOS, Android, and other systems. Nexon's agreement with Unity allows them full rights to the software for any and all subsidiaries, as well as the right to modify and alter the source code as necessary. Which projects Nexon has in the pipeline that might utilize this technology are unknown at this time, but it seems that the company is dedicated to branching out into alternative platforms.

[Source: Nexon/Unity Technologies press release]

MassivelyNexon signs agreement with Unity Technologies for development platform originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidarrangementsbrowser-gamingbrowsersdevelopmentdevelopment-platformindustry-dealsiosmmo-industrymobilemobile-devicesmobile-gamingnexonnexon-usasoftwareunity-technologiesTue, 17 Jan 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pew pew more: A sneak peek at Vindictus' newest archer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/pew-pew-more-a-sneak-peek-at-vindictus-newest-archer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/pew-pew-more-a-sneak-peek-at-vindictus-newest-archer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/pew-pew-more-a-sneak-peek-at-vindictus-newest-archer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Vindictus
The website Steparu.com has a hands-on preview with the latest character coming to Mabinogi Heroes -- also known as Vindictus to NA and EU players. His name is Kai, and he's a flashy archer with more than a few surprises up his pretty sleeves.

As an archer, Kai's tactics largely revolve around kiting and long-ranged assaults, so keeping one's distance is essential in most fights. Kai can transform his bow into a long or short variant, with the long doing more powerful (but slower) attacks and the short one pew-pewing much quicker at closer range. He can also unleash an attack that hits multiple targets at once, making him ideal for some burst AoE damage.

One of Kai's more unique skills is the ability to place a marker on the battlefield and then quickly grapple his way back to it on a moment's notice. While he's traveling back to his marker, he's immune to all damage, making this a strategic move for pitched fights.

Kai is coming to Mabinogi Heroes in Korea tomorrow, although it will be some time before he lands in the States or Europe.

[Thanks to Justatip for the tip!]

MassivelyPew pew more: A sneak peek at Vindictus' newest archer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archerarcher-classcharacterclassf2pfree-to-playgrappling-hookkaikoreamabinogi-heroesnexonpreviewranged-damageranged-dpssteparu.comvideovindictusMon, 16 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The still-satisfying world of action MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/free-for-all-the-still-satisfying-world-of-action-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/free-for-all-the-still-satisfying-world-of-action-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/free-for-all-the-still-satisfying-world-of-action-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Vindictus screenshot
Look, I'm a red-blooded American gamer. I even call it 'Merica. So it should be no surprise when I feel like getting down with a melee-based chop-'em-up or have the desire to leap, jump and bounce my way through countless levels. In other words, action. We 'Mericans love our action games. I have my particular favorites, for sure, and within that list are my favorites of favorites that get the nod for different reasons. Honestly I'm not into action-based games just for the challenge. I don't need to make repeated attempts at downing a boss to have fun. I enjoy the immediate response that an action game gives me. I love to click the mouse button and see my character's sword swing or gun fire. It's satisfying.

Of course, action games can have their drawbacks. Not only do they tend to produce a euphoric haze that can only be described as "stoner glare" and an open-mouthed state of hypnosis, but they can take a toll on delicate, drum-beaten wrists like mine as well. I take the good with the bad, I guess. Click past the cut and I'll let you know my favorite F2P action MMOs.

Continue reading Free for All: The still-satisfying world of action MMOs

MassivelyFree for All: The still-satisfying world of action MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmobeau-hindmabrowser-baseddragon-nestdungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfeaturedffafpsfree-for-allfree-to-playftpjef-reahardjunebud-abmericanmilmommofpsNexonnexon-americaperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentrusty-heartsSide-scrollerspiral-knightsthe-firing-linethree-ringsvindictusWed, 11 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon bringing Mabinogi back online, compensating affected players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/nexon-bringing-mabinogi-back-online-compensating-affected-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/nexon-bringing-mabinogi-back-online-compensating-affected-playe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/nexon-bringing-mabinogi-back-online-compensating-affected-playe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mabinogi - character selection screen
Nexon has brought Mabinogi back online, and the company tells Massively that "the issues that led us to temporarily disable service have been addressed."

The free-to-play sandbox was offline for nearly 40 hours last weekend, and Nexon will be compensating players with 5,000 NX (the company's cash shop currency), a two-day extension of VIP/Premium/Inventory Plus service, and a forthcoming double XP event. Nexon also tells us that players who were directly affected by the recent malicious activity will receive an additional 5,000 NX (10,000 total) and will have their lost items restored.

If you think you've been affected by the recent attacks, contact Nexon Support directly, and be sure to provide the following info when submitting your ticket:
  • account name
  • character name
  • character server
  • date of malicious activity
  • items missing/removed
  • name of malicious character (if available)
Finally, affected players should include the keyword MUGWORTS in their support ticket summary field to assist in filtering and processing.

[Source: Nexon press release]

MassivelyNexon bringing Mabinogi back online, compensating affected players originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-securityf2pfantasyfree-to-playmabinogimabinogi-hackingmabinogi-offlinemalicious-activitynexonnexon-hackingsandboxsecurityTue, 03 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon takes Mabinogi offline indefinitely due to 'malicious activity']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-indefinitely-due-to-malicious-acti/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-indefinitely-due-to-malicious-acti/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/01/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-indefinitely-due-to-malicious-acti/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mabinogi - down for the count
If you were looking to play a little Mabinogi to kick off the new year, you might want to make alternate arrangements. Nexon has taken the free-to-play sandbox offline in order to deal with the recent spate of "malicious activity" going on in-game.

Mabinogi went dark yesterday, and Nexon says that it does "not have a specific time for the service to re-open." This is the second time in the past three months that Nexon has disabled the game, as the company dealt with a rash of unauthorized RMT issues and botting as recently as October of 2011. As per usual when MMO security issues crop up, the company has not released any details, saying only that "we feel that we have no choice but to take the game down in order to prevent any further malicious action."

[Thanks to David for the tip!]

MassivelyNexon takes Mabinogi offline indefinitely due to 'malicious activity' originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bottingf2pfantasyfree-to-playhackingmabinogimabinogi-malicious-activitymabinogi-offlinemalicious-activitynexonrmtsandboxsecuritySun, 01 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Dungeon Fighter Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/rise-and-shiny-recap-dungeon-fighter-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/rise-and-shiny-recap-dungeon-fighter-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/25/rise-and-shiny-recap-dungeon-fighter-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Dungeon Fighter Online screenshot
I'm glad that over the last week I found the time to finally get me some Dungeon Fighter Online by Nexon. I knew that it has quite the following, and I knew that it's supposed to be a blast, sort of like an 8bit Vindictus, but I was still surprised at a few things while I played. The game isn't what I thought it would be in several ways. NPCs have voices and hand out actual quests, the world is more open than I thought it would be, and the graphics feel snappy and fluid despite their primitive nature.

Don't get me wrong -- there is plenty that needs to be tweaked or fixed before the game smells of anything near perfection. Much of it is beyond the ability of the developers, but many of the problems with the game could be fixed relatively easy.

Click past the cut and I'll tell you what I thought during my time fighting in dungeons... online!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Dungeon Fighter Online

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Dungeon Fighter Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8bitbeau-hindmandungeon-fighter-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpmabinogiMapleStorymin-kimNexonnexon-americarise-and-shinySide-scrollervindictusSun, 25 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's 2011 winter holiday event roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/massivelys-2011-winter-holiday-event-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/massivelys-2011-winter-holiday-event-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/massivelys-2011-winter-holiday-event-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online
The winter holiday season is well underway, both in and out of game. Many schools, businesses, and communities are preparing to take a little time off to enjoy the holidays, and here at Massively, we want to make sure you don't miss a single in-game party.

We've been rounding up all the details on celebrations happening in our favorite MMOs, combining them into a handy guide. Follow along after the jump for your map to all of the can't-miss MMO winter holiday events for 2011!

Continue reading Massively's 2011 winter holiday event roundup

MassivelyMassively's 2011 winter holiday event roundup originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activision-Blizzardage-of-conanaikaaionanarchy-onlineanetaocarenanetblizzardcastle-empirechampions-onlinechristmascity-of-heroesclone-wars-adventurescohcovcoxdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkedendarkeden-onlinedc-universe-onlinedcuodigimon-masters-onlinedragon-nestelswordeqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playfrogsterfuncomgpotatoguild-warsgwhellgatehellgate-globalholiday-2011holiday-roundupholidays-2011jagged-alliancekingsisleleague-of-legendslolncsoftnexonperfect-world-entertainmentpweriftriot-gamesromrosh-onlinerunes-of-magicshsosoesony-online-entertainmentsquaresquare-enixstar-trek-onlinestosuper-hero-squad-onlinet3funtrionw101warhammer-onlinewindslayer-2wizard101world-of-warcraftwowWed, 21 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Korean gaming giants adjusting data collection policies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/korean-gaming-giants-adjusting-data-collection-policies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/korean-gaming-giants-adjusting-data-collection-policies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/korean-gaming-giants-adjusting-data-collection-policies/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

NCsoft logo
Changes are afoot in the Korean gaming industry in the wake of last month's massive Nexon hack that cost over 13 million MapleStory users their personal information. NCsoft has decided to stop collecting its players' Resident Registration Number (which is a Korean analog to the American Social Security number) due to concerns over privacy issues.

Korean gamers will still need to fork over the number to play NCsoft games, though, according to a report at ThisIsGame.com. Players need only an email and password to register for the PlayNC portal, but the RRN may still be required to verify that new registrants aren't bots, and NCsoft has handed off the collection responsibilities to a third-party agency. "We have acknowledged the importance of personal information for a long time. So we have collected minimum personal information and have asked another agency to do the sensitive information work including the RRN on behalf of us," said an NCsoft official.

ThisIsGame also reports that NHN Hangame has decided to stop collecting personal information, while Nexon and Neowiz are formulating new collection policies.

MassivelyKorean gaming giants adjusting data collection policies originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>data-collectionhackshangamemaplestorymaplestory-hackmmo-industryncsoftneowiznexonnexon-hacknhn-hangamepersonal-informationresident-registration-numberrrnsecurityMon, 19 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Pocket Legends and Star Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/rise-and-shiny-recap-pocket-legends-and-star-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/rise-and-shiny-recap-pocket-legends-and-star-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/rise-and-shiny-recap-pocket-legends-and-star-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Star Legends screenshot
This week my job was a bit harder than it usually is. This week I had to revisit Pocket Legends and Star Legends, the entirety of the Spacetime Studios lineup, in order to catch the updates and differences since both games were recently adapted to play within the Chrome browser.

See, the device that you play an MMO on does make a difference. While I haven't found many players who have an issue with moving up to a finer machine with a larger screen, I almost always receive a few comments in any of my mobile MMO columns about the lack of fun involved with playing anything on a screen that will fit in your hand. While I understand the difficulty in downgrading your monitor size, the mobile market's reception of Pocket Legends surprised even the developer. People are playing it, for many hours, on screens that are very small.

But now we have the ability to play it in our browser. Does it make a difference in the experience? Click past the cut and I'll let you know.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Pocket Legends and Star Legends

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Pocket Legends and Star Legends originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddungeon-fighter-onlinefeaturedlivestreammobilemobile-mmonexonpocket-legendsrise-and-shinyside-scrollingsmartphonespacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsvideovideosWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 18 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[[Updated] On the fourth day of giveaways, Nexon gave to me...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/on-the-fourth-day-of-giveaways-nexon-gave-to-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/on-the-fourth-day-of-giveaways-nexon-gave-to-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/on-the-fourth-day-of-giveaways-nexon-gave-to-me/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Royal Crimson Stallion Mount
[UPDATE: All winners have been selected and contacted. Thanks to everyone who entered!]

On the fourth day of giveaways, Nexon gave to me... four pet items!
On the third day of giveaways, Wargaming.net gave to me... three premium years!
On the second day of giveaways, BioWare gave to me... two warring factions!
On the first day of giveaways, Turbine gave to me... a lifetime VIP!

MapleStory fans, your day is here! Nexon is joining the 12 Days of Giveaways event again this year with some fun MapleStory pet packs. Each package contains four items: a permanent pet (either a White Bunny, a Mir, or a Jr. Reaper), a permanent pet equip, pet food, and a pet scroll. We've got 20 of these pet four-packs to hand out to our readers, but that's not all!

If Dragon Nest is more your speed, Nexon has you covered as well! We have four Dragon Nest prize packages, each containing 10 Dragon Eggs. Each egg opens to reveal a random prize -- anything from yellow or black Cupid wings to a Royal Crimson Stallion, and many other possibilities.

If you want to pick up one of these prizes, just enter by leaving a comment to tell us which of these two games is your favorite and why. The entry deadline is tomorrow, December 17th, at noon EST. Check out our contest rules to make sure you're eligible, and best of luck!

CONTEST FAQ OFFICIAL RULES

Massively[Updated] On the fourth day of giveaways, Nexon gave to me... originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-giveaways-2011contestcontestsdragon-nestf2pfree-to-playgiveawaygiveawaysmaplestorynexonFri, 16 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon raises $1.17 billion from IPO, stock subsequently drops]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/nexon-raises-1-17-billion-from-ipo-stock-subsequently-drops/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/nexon-raises-1-17-billion-from-ipo-stock-subsequently-drops/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/nexon-raises-1-17-billion-from-ipo-stock-subsequently-drops/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nexon logo
Korean online gaming giant Nexon has raised $1.17 billion from its initial public stock offering. The filing stated that Nexon has 1.2 billion registered players, 77 million of which were active as recently as September 2011. CFO Owen Mahoney says the company's expertise made it an attractive proposition for new shareholders. "We can really bring a lot to the table. We know how to tune a game so that people will play it for months on end," he explained.

Nexon's IPO was the largest on the Tokyo Stock Exchange this year, and as a result the company is now valued somewhere between $7.69 billion and $8.97 billion according to GamesIndustry.biz.

Even so, Nexon's stock price slipped by 3.9 percent on its first day of trading.

MassivelyNexon raises $1.17 billion from IPO, stock subsequently drops originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyf2pfree-to-playinitial-public-offeringipommo-industrynexonowen-mahoneystockstokyo-stock-exchangeWed, 14 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Join the fight to reclaim Atlantica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/join-the-fight-to-reclaim-atlantica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/join-the-fight-to-reclaim-atlantica-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/join-the-fight-to-reclaim-atlantica-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Atlantica Online
Atlantica Online has become a much more dangerous place to visit as of late, ever since a horde of monsters led by the evil Riederan invaded the place. But you won't let a little thing such as XP-filled loot piñatas keep you from fighting back, right? We didn't think so.

Starting tomorrow and continuing through January 8th, Atlantica Online players will rise to meet the challenge of these invaders during a massive in-game event. When Riederan's Invasion is triggered, players have a scant half-hour to slaughter 10,000 monsters per town before the town's defenses fail. The event is programmed to scale so that mobs will match the players' levels.

Participate in the event and precious rewards and buffs will drop into your lap. Bet that's the best news your lap's heard all day! To help players out with the invasion, Atlantica Online has introduced a new hero, the sorceress Mwindo. Mwindo can use her primal monsoon magic and staff to bring the pain to the baddies.

[Source: Nexon press release]

MassivelyJoin the fight to reclaim Atlantica Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlanticaatlantica-onlineclasseventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventinvasionloot-pinatasmwindonexonRiederanRiederans-InvasionSat, 10 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory adds the Cannoneer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/maplestory-adds-the-cannoneer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/maplestory-adds-the-cannoneer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/maplestory-adds-the-cannoneer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Son of a gun.
Are you ready to solve all of your problems with the application of cannons? Up until now, MapleStory has allowed players to solve maybe a fifth of all your problems via the application of cannons. But the newest character type in the game, the Cannoneer, solves the vast majority of his problems via... well, you can guess. He also makes use of bombs and perhaps the odd aerial bombardment as well, just in case you wanted to diversify your problem-solving skills a bit.

To show off this first update in the Legends patch, we have posted not one, not two, but three videos just past the break. There is, of course, a gameplay trailer for the Cannoneer and a trailer for the patch as a whole. But there's also the "audition" trailer for the Cannoneer as the staff at Nexon tries to decide on the next class to add to the game. Check out the videos just past the break, and get ready to open fire.

[Source: Nexon press release]

Continue reading MapleStory adds the Cannoneer

MassivelyMapleStory adds the Cannoneer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cannoneerf2pfree-to-playmaplestorymaplestory-legendsnewsnexonnexon-usapatchpatchestrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 08 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Nest celebrates the holidays with Scarlet Snow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/dragon-nest-celebrates-the-holidays-with-scarlet-snow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/dragon-nest-celebrates-the-holidays-with-scarlet-snow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/dragon-nest-celebrates-the-holidays-with-scarlet-snow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Dragon Nest
The weather is cooling down, and it's the season for fresh, white, beautiful snow. Dragon Nest, however, wants to turn that snow red with its upcoming update, Scarlet Snow. The new patch, coming sometime in December, will raise the game's level cap to 40. And of course, a raised level cap means new challenges for players to conquer. Saint's Haven will play host to two new nests and dungeons, and there will be plenty of seasonal events for players to see. For more information, check out the post on the game's official website.

MassivelyDragon Nest celebrates the holidays with Scarlet Snow originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimson-snowdndragon-nestdungeondungeonseventsf2pfree-to-playholidayholiday-eventsin-game-eventsnestnestsnexonnexon-americapatchpatchesWed, 07 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
If you've kept up with my columns for a while, it should be no secret that I think Mabinogi is still one of the best games out there. While it does have its issues, the game simply presents more sandboxy goodness to players (while keeping those systems coming) than almost any game I can think of. In fact, the game has added so much since I started this column that a returning player can get confused. A new player might even become lost.

I like to officially dip my toes into old, familiar games once in a while. Checking back on these games from my past is a great way for me to get my gamer's bearings and see how my opinions might have changed. Mabinogi has been calling to me for a while because I haven't really jumped into it for that long over the past few months. I figured now is the time.

Click past the cut!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmaneve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpLiveStreammabinogimin-kimNexonnexon-americarise-and-shinytwitch-tvvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvindictusSun, 04 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon's Min Kim on the 'Free2pocalypse']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/nexons-min-kim-on-the-free2pocalypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/nexons-min-kim-on-the-free2pocalypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/nexons-min-kim-on-the-free2pocalypse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nexon logo
Nexon bigwig Min Kim recently checked in with Gamasutra for a brief interview regarding the state of the company's global free-to-play initiative. In short, business is booming, and while MapleStory was viewed as an oddity when it launched with a F2P model eight years ago, it's now much closer to the norm. "A lot of people laughed at the business model, and now a lot of companies are starting to try to understand it or experiment with it. We've been calling it 'the free2pocalypse.' Every company is looking at it; the market is just way larger," Kim explains.

He also talks a bit about Nexon's new Live Games division, which consolidates the company's operations, marketing, and communications groups into a single entity under his direction. Finally, Kim explains the logic behind the decision to remove Nexon's name from its uber-successful retail store game cards. In a nutshell, the benefits of unifying the virtual item currencies across a diverse selection of games outweighed the name recognition afforded by the Nexon banner.

MassivelyNexon's Min Kim on the 'Free2pocalypse' originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsf2pfree-to-playfree2pocalypsegame-cardsinterviewskarma-koinkarma-koinslive-gamesmin-kimMiscellaneousnexonnexon-americaretail-store-cardsFri, 02 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/free-for-all-shopping-for-your-favorite-free-to-play-fanatic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Free Realms screenshot
Well, November is officially over. You know what that means: The shopping season is upon us. While you might or might not celebrate any one of the numerous holidays that are coming up over the next several weeks, you are probably quite aware of the sales and seasonal happenings in your area. Times have changed, though. It only takes one trip to the local game shop to see how boxed MMOs are not as common as they once were. Digital delivery, faster internet speeds, free-to-play payment models and many more titles to choose from have all encouraged developers to skip the boxes for the most part.

So what is there to get for the free-to-play fanatic in your life? There's plenty, fortunately. It can be quite a trip to navigate the muddy waters of cash-shop goods and virtual money, and the last thing you would want to do is buy something that is not needed or wanted.

Click past the cut and I'll give you some suggestions for gift giving this season!

Continue reading Free for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic

MassivelyFree for All: Shopping for your favorite free-to-play fanatic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcash-shop-buying-guideClone-Wars-Adventurescrucialdream-of-mirror-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playftpgamersfirstlord-of-the-rings-onlineMicrotransactionsNexonrunes-of-magicultimate-gamer-cardwizard101Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: November 28 - December 4, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/mv-guide-november-28-december-4-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/mv-guide-november-28-december-4-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/mv-guide-november-28-december-4-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

RuneScape
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: November 28 - December 4, 2011

MassivelyMV Guide: November 28 - December 4, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jagexlivestreamlivestreamingmabinogimassivelytvmv-guidemv-tvnexonrunescapetwitch-tvMon, 28 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST