Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[XL releases ArcheAge fishing trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/xl-releases-archeage-fishing-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/xl-releases-archeage-fishing-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/xl-releases-archeage-fishing-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

XL releases ArcheAge fishing trailer
Ho hum, fishing in MMOs. Who cares, right? Wrong! XLGAMES cares, and the company apparently thinks enough of its ArcheAge angling mechanics to make a gameplay trailer out of them.

MMO Culture has uploaded the trailer to YouTube, and in it you'll see over a minute's worth of deep sea fishing plus the transporting of the day's catch back to land, presumably to sell or cook. ArcheAge is gearing up for its Chinese closed beta phase, a date for which will be announced later this month. The game has already released in its native Korea and will be published in the west by Trion, though no date has been forthcoming.

You can view the trailer after the break.

Continue reading XL releases ArcheAge fishing trailer

MassivelyXL releases ArcheAge fishing trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaarche-agearcheagearcheage-fishingcraftingfantasyfishingfishing-trailernon-combatnon-combat-gameplaypvpsandboxsandparktradeskillstrailervideoxl-gamesxlgameszomg-please-dont-suckTue, 16 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vanguard producer's letter talks diplomacy, Pankor Zhi, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/vanguard-producers-letter-talks-diplomacy-pankor-zhi-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/vanguard-producers-letter-talks-diplomacy-pankor-zhi-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/vanguard-producers-letter-talks-diplomacy-pankor-zhi-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Vanguard - Dragonbone bow
SOE producer Harvey "Rahtiz" Burgess has penned a Vanguard update letter. In it, he says the dev team is still "cranking away" on both content updates and bug fixes despite the defection of a couple of team members to other projects.

The most recent game update features new Diplomacy NPCs in the City of Brass, and Burgess also explains why the Pankor Zhi revamp is taking a bit longer than expected. You can read the full letter at SOE's Vanguard website.

MassivelyVanguard producer's letter talks diplomacy, Pankor Zhi, and more originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diplomacyf2pfantasyfree-to-playharvey-burgessnon-combatnon-combat-gameplayrahtizsandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttelonvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgFri, 29 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: There's no crafting in Star Wars!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/some-assembly-required-you-cant-have-crafting-in-star-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/some-assembly-required-you-cant-have-crafting-in-star-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/some-assembly-required-you-cant-have-crafting-in-star-wars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required blueprint header
The other week I posted a Leaderboard inviting people to vote for their favorite Star Wars MMO. The comments featured a number of both predictable and surprising insights, but one line of thought in particular stood out to me. There are apparently some folks out there who think that Star Wars is nothing more than laser pistols and lightsabers, just as there are some folks who think that MMOs are nothing more than combat lobbies.

While I'll stop short of labeling these people because of a difference in opinion, it's clear that they haven't really thought this through.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: There's no crafting in Star Wars!

MassivelySome Assembly Required: There's no crafting in Star Wars! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingfeaturedgame-mechanicsno-crafting-in-star-warsnon-combatnon-combat-gameplayopinionpgcplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentreductionismsandboxsandparksarsome-assembly-requiredstar-wars-craftingsw-craftingtheres no-crafting-in-star-warsTheresNo-crafting-in-star-warsvirtual-worldsworld-vs-gameyou-cant-have-crafting-in-star-warsFri, 15 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your favorite non-combat feature?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-non-combat-feature/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-non-combat-feature/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/07/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-non-combat-feature/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Daily Grind
Non-combat features don't get a lot of love in popular MMOs these days, but there have nonetheless been some interesting experiments in this department over the years. From RIFT's housing to Star Wars Galaxies' Entertainers to Lord of the Rings Online's music system, several genre titles have strayed from the straight and narrow of violence and character progression.

Upcoming titles like Age of Wushu and ArcheAge are adding new wrinkles as well, so for today's Daily Grind we'd like to hear your thoughts on non-combat MMO features. Specifically, which one is your favorite?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your favorite non-combat feature? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaage-of-wulinage-of-wushuarche-agearcheageasiachinachinesechinese-mmoclassic-mmoconquestdaily-grindf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalaxiesgpotatogvgjet-likidnappinglord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromartial-artsming-dynastynon-combatnon-combat-gameplayopinionpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsandparksci-fisnail-gamessnail-games-usasoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgotdgthe-daily-grindthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentwushuwuxiaxl-gamesxlgamesMon, 07 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: Lord of the Rings Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/why-i-play-lord-of-the-rings-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/why-i-play-lord-of-the-rings-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/why-i-play-lord-of-the-rings-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online - Oatbarton archway
It's confession time, folks. I change MMOs like most people change socks, so while many of my colleagues write about their long-term MMO love and possibly a backup game or two in this column, I'm more inclined to write about four different titles in as many weeks. In fact, by the time you finish reading this, I may well have moved on to something else.

That's OK, though, and that's one of the great things about the modern MMO space: There are just so damn many games that there's really no excuse for ever getting bored. And this week's infatuation is Lord of the Rings Online.

Continue reading Why I Play: Lord of the Rings Online

MassivelyWhy I Play: Lord of the Rings Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>editorialf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-inn-leaguelotro-music-systemmassively-metametamiddle-earthmmo-musicmusicmusic-systemnon-combatnon-combat-gameplaynostalgiaop-edopinionplayer-generated-contentroast-muttontolkienturbineturbine-entertainmentuser-generated-contentwhy-i-playwhy-i-play-lotroWed, 25 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom gutting Age of Conan's crafting system, starting over]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/funcom-gutting-age-of-conans-crafting-system-starting-over/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/funcom-gutting-age-of-conans-crafting-system-starting-over/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/funcom-gutting-age-of-conans-crafting-system-starting-over/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Age of Conan - I have no crafting shots because the current system sucks that bad
Age of Conan's latest development update is here, and producer Craig "Silirrion" Morrison has quite a lot to say about the game's forthcoming crafting revamp. And when we say revamp, we mean revamp. "When we sat down and looked at the system and how we could add depth and improve engagement, it became clear that it was better to start over," Morrison says.

He isn't kidding either, as the new system does away with awkward quest blocks to progression and instead ties your advancement directly to making items and using the relevant skills.

Harvesting nodes will also spawn with more variety (and at more locations), and the much-reviled random NPC attacks that used to happen while harvesting are finally being dropped. Still want more details? Well, material quality will matter, there will be some sort of refining process, and there's an entirely new system for the actual production of an item. There's a lot more to Age of Conan's new crafting system, of course, but we're out of space, so you'll need to head to the official site to check it out.

MassivelyFuncom gutting Age of Conan's crafting system, starting over originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-crafting-revampaocaoc-craftingaoc-crafting-revampcraftingcrafting-revampcraig-morrisonf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhyborianon-combatnon-combat-gameplaysilirriontradeskillswooTue, 28 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE readying new EQII prestige homes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/soe-readying-new-eqii-prestige-homes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/soe-readying-new-eqii-prestige-homes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/soe-readying-new-eqii-prestige-homes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Storm Tower Isle
Looking for a new place to call home in the world of Norrath? Sony Online Entertainment has a couple of new prestige houses on the way that offer plenty of space and plenty of scenic views.

First up is the Storm Tower Isle, an evil-themed island refuge with a Tower of Bone replica and a bunch of pristine beach, salt spray, and stormy atmospherics. Next is the Secluded Sanctum, and long-time EverQuest II players will recognize it as a portion of Sullon Zek's dungeon. SOE left the canopy beds and raised dais in place, and we can't wait to see what some of Norrath's premier interior decorators do with the place. Both homes will be available in the Station Cash store very soon, and you can get a guided video tour after the cut.

Continue reading SOE readying new EQII prestige homes

MassivelySOE readying new EQII prestige homes originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emily-tayloreq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playhousingnon-combatnon-combat-gameplayplayer-housingprestige-homeprestige-housesecluded-sanctumsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstorm-tower-islevideoTue, 17 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Adventures equal battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/the-mog-log-adventures-equal-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/the-mog-log-adventures-equal-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/the-mog-log-adventures-equal-battles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
One of the big selling points of Final Fantasy XIV before launch was that there were many classes devoted to doing things other than fighting. The promise was made, more than once (if memory serves), that even non-combat classes would get to take part in the main story, and it was also stated that these classes would still be useful to an adventuring party even if not quite as good as another Disciple of War or Magic.

At this point, of course, we can confidently say that part was a lie. A Botanist is about as useful in combat as an actual botanist in a fistfight. But Naoki Yoshida has gone on record that the former part is a lie as well -- that if you want to take part in the main storyline, you really do need to level a combat class. It wasn't something that was really highlighted, but it was still there, and it's worth unpacking as we look forward to another year of the game's ongoing development. If you came in expecting to only craft and gather, you're no longer going to have your run of the place.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Adventures equal battles

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Adventures equal battles originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columncombatcraftingdesignendgamefeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgatheringnaoki-yoshidanon-combatopinionplaystylesquaresquare-enixthe-mog-logSat, 14 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New ArcheAge video shows off 34 minutes of housing gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/new-archeage-video-shows-off-34-minutes-of-housing-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/new-archeage-video-shows-off-34-minutes-of-housing-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/new-archeage-video-shows-off-34-minutes-of-housing-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - player housing
If you're into player housing, you'll want to have a look at the latest closed beta test footage from ArcheAge. The clip was recorded by Korean players in XLGAMES' ongoing CBT4 testing phase, and it shows off a whopping 34 minutes of housing-related shenanigans.

The really interesting bits begin around the 28-minute mark, as we get to see a pretty good demonstration of the game's interior decoration mechanics. It looks a bit like EverQuest II in terms of object placement and rotation abilities, and there are also quite a large number of unique furniture pieces and accoutrements.

Continue reading New ArcheAge video shows off 34 minutes of housing gameplay

MassivelyNew ArcheAge video shows off 34 minutes of housing gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacbt4closed-betaclosed-beta-4fantasyhousingkorean-betanon-combatnon-combat-gameplayplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentplayer-housingsandboxsandparkvideoxl-gamesxlgamesTue, 10 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New ArcheAge videos show off PvP, dancing gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/new-archeage-videos-show-off-pvp-dancing-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/new-archeage-videos-show-off-pvp-dancing-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/new-archeage-videos-show-off-pvp-dancing-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - Pop dance clubs? really?
A couple of ArcheAge tidbits surfaced during the recent Tencent Games Carnival. XLGAMES' sandpark MMO was on display since it is gearing up for both its fourth Korean beta phase and a 2012 beta in Tencent's native China.

Two noteworthy videos came out of the conference, and their radically different nature points to the breadth of gameplay on display in ArcheAge. First up is an over-the-shoulder clip featuring some five vs. five PvP gameplay. The action takes place on an instanced map known as the Siege Warfare Training Camp, and MMO Culture points out a couple of lingering bugs relating to character movement (as well as some interesting weapon combinations).

The second video comes directly from XLGAMES, and it shifts gears in favor of ArcheAge's social features. While many MMOs feature dance animations, thus far the only title to take a serious stab at dance gameplay has been Star Wars Galaxies. ArcheAge looks to continue that tradition by allowing players to choreograph dances and coordinate with other dancers, though we are scratching our heads a little bit due to the jarring mixture of high fantasy and pop music. You'll find both videos viewable after the cut.

Continue reading New ArcheAge videos show off PvP, dancing gameplay

MassivelyNew ArcheAge videos show off PvP, dancing gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagebetachoreographyclosed-betadancingfantasyinstanced-pvpkorean-betanon-combatnon-combat-gameplaypvppvp-instancesandboxsandparksocial-featuressocial-gamingtencent-gamestrailersvideoxlxl-gamesxlgamesMon, 21 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lime Odyssey introduces crafting professions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/lime-odyssey-introduces-crafting-professions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/lime-odyssey-introduces-crafting-professions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/lime-odyssey-introduces-crafting-professions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Lime Odyssey - tailor hard at work
Aeria Games is ramping up its PR efforts for Lime Odyssey, a new free-to-play fantasy MMORPG that's been in the works for a while now. The newest info drop concerns the game's dual-class system that "allows a character to adopt both a battle-themed role and a professional trade."

In addition to a race, players will need to pick a battle class and a domestic profession for their avatar, with the latter featuring a choice between Chef, Tailor, or Blacksmith. Aeria says that players may then "switch between their character's battle class and profession at any time with the push of a button." In sharp contrast to many combat-focused MMOs, Lime Odyssey features hundreds of crafting quests, and the end results of a crafting combine are "either a helpful tool or a viable commodity for trade."

[Source: Aeria press release]

MassivelyLime Odyssey introduces crafting professions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesblacksmithchefclassescraftingcrafting-questsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicslime-odysseynon-combatnon-combat-gameplaytailortradeskillingThu, 10 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Wulin videos show life skills, combat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/age-of-wulin-videos-show-life-skills-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/age-of-wulin-videos-show-life-skills-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/10/age-of-wulin-videos-show-life-skills-combat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Age of Wulin - Clawed girl
More Age of Wulin beta news is on tap courtesy of MMO Culture, and more video footage is available as well. The free-to-play fantasy sandbox just opened its initial closed beta phase to the Chinese market, and as a result we're getting a first look at some of the game's unique features and skills.

While most MMOs focus completely on combat, Age of Wulin features some very intriguing non-combat aspects, many of which are found in the life skills tree. In addition to traditional gathering and crafting disciplines, there are also sewing, musician, artist, chess, fortune teller, and beggar skills, just to name a few.

Combat isn't forgotten, course, and you can view a basic combat tutorial video and some life skill clips after the break.

Continue reading Age of Wulin videos show life skills, combat

MassivelyAge of Wulin videos show life skills, combat originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wulinbeggingbetachesschinese-betaclosed-betacraftingf2pfantasyfishingfree-to-playgatheringmartial-artsnon-combatnon-combat-gameplaysandboxscholarsnail-gamestradeskillsvideoMon, 10 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeria releases Eden Eternal player housing video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/aeria-releases-eden-eternal-player-housing-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/aeria-releases-eden-eternal-player-housing-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/aeria-releases-eden-eternal-player-housing-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Eden Eternal - player housing
Eden Eternal's feature list just got a bit longer, as Aeria Games has released a new trailer showing off the game's player housing implementation. The new content is scheduled to go live sometime in early October, according to the latest Aeria press release.

The video shows a good amount of customization, and player characters can be seen placing a variety of objects inside a spacious interior as well as rotating said objects. Everything from beds to bookshelves to wall hangings will be obtainable via the game's item shop and from various in-game quests. Finally, Aeria is allowing other players to visit your personal house, and doing so will reward both parties with "various status boosts."

Check out the housing video after the break, and head to the official Eden Eternal website to learn more about the game.

[Source: Aeria Games press release]

Continue reading Aeria releases Eden Eternal player housing video

MassivelyAeria releases Eden Eternal player housing video originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamescash-shopeden-eternalf2pfantasyfree-to-playhousingitem-shopitem-storenon-combatnon-combat-gameplayplayer-generated-contentplayer-housingpress-releasetrailervideoSat, 01 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hero Engine sandbox to feature 3-faction PvP, deep crafting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/new-hero-engine-sandbox-to-feature-3-faction-pvp-deep-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/new-hero-engine-sandbox-to-feature-3-faction-pvp-deep-crafting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/new-hero-engine-sandbox-to-feature-3-faction-pvp-deep-crafting/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Repopulation - screenshot
Hey sandbox fans, here's another indie title to keep your eye on as we look toward the new year. Above & Beyond Technologies is working on a sci-fi game called The Repopulation, and the company has just released a new trailer filled with pre-alpha footage.

The project is built on the Hero Engine (and if that doesn't mean anything to you, you'll surely recognize the tech's most famous implementation to date) and is described as a three-faction PvP game that allows players to join existing nations or create their own. Gameplay is purportedly skill-based, and there is a toggle between traditional MMORPG button-mashing combat and some sort of action mode. There are also "many non-combat activities" including an "advanced" crafting system.

The video shows quite a bit of footage given its sub-two-minute running time, and you can get a glimpse of city building, combat, and the user interface after the break.

Continue reading New Hero Engine sandbox to feature 3-faction PvP, deep crafting

MassivelyNew Hero Engine sandbox to feature 3-faction PvP, deep crafting originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction-pvpabove-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesaction-combatbutton-mashingcity-buildingcraftingindieindie-sandboxnon-combatnon-combat-gameplaysandboxsci-fithe-repopulationthree-faction-pvptrailervideoTue, 27 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's Tornquist talks truth, pain, and non-combat gaming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/the-secret-worlds-tornquist-talks-truth-pain-and-non-combat-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/the-secret-worlds-tornquist-talks-truth-pain-and-non-combat-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/the-secret-worlds-tornquist-talks-truth-pain-and-non-combat-g/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Rock, Paper Shotgun is back with part two of its interview with The Secret World's Ragnar Tornquist. Part one debuted yesterday and detailed a bit of the history behind the game's development as well as blurbs about factions, puzzles, and ARG thingamajigs.

Today's installment talks about everything from Tornquist's recurring real world/hidden world motifs, to the endings of Lost and Dreamfall, to unfulfilled fan expectations. As you might expect, the interview errs heavily on the side of the philosophical rather than delving into gameplay specifics.

Everything from the nature of truth, to Funcom's Secret World agenda, to the reticence of the gaming industry to evolve beyond kill-everything-that-moves is up for discussion. On this last point, Tornquist hints at the challenges inherent in designing non-combat gaming experiences. "It's difficult. You can't sacrifice fun. But then of course the idea of fun is ambiguous. Does it always have to be fun? Can't it be painful too?"

MassivelyThe Secret World's Tornquist talks truth, pain, and non-combat gaming originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conspiracyfan-expectationsfantasyhorrorinterviewinterviewsnon-combatnon-combat-gameplayperceptionphilosophyRagnar-Tornquistthe-secret-worldtruthtswThu, 07 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Anvil of Crom: Can AoC Unrated keep up with the Joneses?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/26/the-anvil-of-crom-can-aoc-unrated-keep-up-with-the-joneses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/26/the-anvil-of-crom-can-aoc-unrated-keep-up-with-the-joneses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/26/the-anvil-of-crom-can-aoc-unrated-keep-up-with-the-joneses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Sooooo, City of Heroes and LEGO Universe caught the free-to-play bug this week. Fallen Earth did so the week before. What does this have to do with Age of Conan? Quite a lot, if you think about it, and that's what I'm given to doing every week around this time as I sit down to hum a few bars relating to Funcom's Hyboria.

In case you've forgotten (and it's easy to do thanks to the rash of announcements lately), Age of Conan is gearing up for its own version of freemium MMORPG madness. At this point it's anyone's guess as to when the big day will actually roll around, though, and the longer Funcom waits, the more it concerns me.

Continue reading The Anvil of Crom: Can AoC Unrated keep up with the Joneses?

MassivelyThe Anvil of Crom: Can AoC Unrated keep up with the Joneses? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unratedanvil-of-cromaocaoc-unratedf2pf2p-conversionsfantasyfeature-listfeaturedfeaturesfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgameplayhurry-up-alreadyhyborianon-combatnon-combat-gameplayopinionsystemsthe-anvil-of-cromtimelinessSun, 26 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What Star Wars Galaxies features will you miss the most?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/26/the-daily-grind-what-star-wars-galaxies-features-will-you-miss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/26/the-daily-grind-what-star-wars-galaxies-features-will-you-miss/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/26/the-daily-grind-what-star-wars-galaxies-features-will-you-miss/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Yep, it's another Star Wars Galaxies-flavored Daily Grind (if you think the sentimentality is thick now, wait until the week of December 15th). When the long-running sandbox title rides into the sunset this winter, it will be taking with it quite a few unique features that have been deemed unnecessary in all the games since.

Whether we're talking about the Dancer, Image Designer, and Musician functionality, the space game that allows for interaction and personalization inside the spacecraft as well as out, or the player-generated content features made possible by the Storyteller and Chronicle systems, there's a lot to love about SWG even if you don't particularly love Star Wars (or the game's disregard for Star Wars lore).

Today's breakfast topic follows on from yesterday's, but this time around we want to know about feature sets instead of personal memories. What SWG features will you miss the most?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What Star Wars Galaxies features will you miss the most? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicle-systemchroniclesentertainergame-discussiongamer-discussionimage-designerjtljump-to-lightspeedmission-generatormmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsmusiciannon-combatnon-combat-gameplayopinionplayer-generated-contentsandboxsci-fispacecraftspaceship-decorationstar-wars-galaxiesstorystorytellerswgtdgthe-daily-grindSun, 26 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: The sweet and sour of ArcheAge's third closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/massively-exclusive-the-sweet-and-sour-of-archeages-third-clos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/massively-exclusive-the-sweet-and-sour-of-archeages-third-clos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/massively-exclusive-the-sweet-and-sour-of-archeages-third-clos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Forgive me for getting this out of the way up front: I frickin' hate betas. Loathe them. Avoid them like the plague, usually. Why then, did I find myself foregoing sleep for the better part of last week to log into XL Games' third closed beta test for ArcheAge?

Curiosity, for sure, and maybe just a hint of desperation. As the MMORPG genre moves farther and farther away from the types of games worlds that drew me in a decade ago, the chance to get a preview of what some fans are hoping is the next great AAA sandbox was enough to overwhelm my betaphobia.

It's been quite some time since I've glanced out my window to see the sun rise while playing an MMORPG through the night, and ArcheAge definitely has its claws in me at this point. Is it the next great sandbox, though? Is it even a sandbox at all? Can XL successfully meld two design philosophies (sandbox and themepark) that are, in many ways, polar opposites? Those questions are difficult to answer, but join me after the cut and I'll give it a shot.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: The sweet and sour of ArcheAge's third closed beta

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: The sweet and sour of ArcheAge's third closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagebeta-impressionscbt3closed-betacraftingexclusivefantasyfeaturedharvestingimpressionsjake-songkorean-betakorean-closed-betanon-combatnon-combat-gameplayopinionplayer-economysandboxsandparkthemeparkvirtual-worldvirtual-worldsxlxl-gameszomg-archeageTue, 31 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: Debunking the first kiss theory]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/the-soapbox-debunking-the-first-kiss-theory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/the-soapbox-debunking-the-first-kiss-theory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/the-soapbox-debunking-the-first-kiss-theory/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

So I owe this week's Soapbox to one of my gaming buddies who recently opined that a lot of older genre fans wear rose-colored glasses. We're a sentimental, eternally ornery, and change-resistant bunch, he said, and we're all searching in vain for that one game that recaptures the magic of our first MMO rodeo.

Ordinarily I'd take offense to those labels, but upon further reflection, my pal had a point (though it may not be the one he intended). This "first kiss theory" -- as I'm calling the bundle of nostalgia-related charges often leveled against old-school MMO fans -- is fairly common on massively multiplayer forums. This was the first time I'd heard the theory espoused by someone I knew personally, though, and as a result I spent a fair bit of time mulling it over.

Join me after the cut to see why it ultimately doesn't hold water and why, if older MMOers are indeed nostalgic, there are quantifiable reasons for it that has little to do with half-remembered glory days.

Continue reading The Soapbox: Debunking the first kiss theory

MassivelyThe Soapbox: Debunking the first kiss theory originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanchangeeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedfirst-kissfirst-kiss-theoryits-not-nostalgia-stupidkissmmo-industrynon-combatnon-combat-gameplaynon-combat-optionsnostalgiaopinionrelativismrelativist-blatherrose-colored-glassessandboxsimplificationsoapboxsoapbox-jef-reahardthe-soapboxthemeparkTue, 24 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge housing, ship construction, labor system detailed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/archeage-housing-ship-construction-labor-system-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/archeage-housing-ship-construction-labor-system-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/archeage-housing-ship-construction-labor-system-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

New details regarding ArcheAge's extensive non-combat gameplay have emerged, and AAportal.net has a three-part breakdown of the game's labor system, ship-building, and house construction mechanics. The labor system ties ArcheAge's various crafting, gathering, and construction sub-systems together under one umbrella and provides the player with a pool of labor points that power most of the activities. The points accrue at fixed intervals (whether you're online or not). There also appears to be some delineation in the point possibilities afforded to high-level users and their low-level counterparts (AAportal cites "more luxurious activities" like dance parties as possible labor point expenditures for more advanced players).

Ship construction will necessitate a group effort due to the considerable resource requirements. Hull plans are purchased from NPCs and activated at the shipyard, at which point the player will see a basic frame in drydock. After players deposit the requisite resources and set the payment for their NPC workers, enterprising ship captains will be able to view the construction process. Sailing a ship involves factors ranging from tidal currents, to wind strength, to the angle of the mast, as well as managing your player crew (each member of which has a distinct job on the ship).

Housing is similarly involved, with yards, farms, and furniture crafting available. Houses can also be built anywhere in the world and come in various types, sizes, and architectural styles. Head to AAportal.net for all the details.

MassivelyArcheAge housing, ship construction, labor system detailed originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 May 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheageconstructioncraftingfantasyfarmsfurniturefurniture-makinggame-mechanicshousinglaborlabor-systemnon-combatnon-combat-gameplaysailingsandboxship-constructionshipyardsxlxl-gameszomg-do-wantMon, 09 May 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars Galaxies rolls out the Entertainer update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/star-wars-galaxies-rolls-out-the-entertainer-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/star-wars-galaxies-rolls-out-the-entertainer-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/star-wars-galaxies-rolls-out-the-entertainer-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Despite an explosion of titles across the MMOsphere in recent years, Sony Online Entertainment's Star Wars Galaxies is still one of the very few to feature much in the way of non-combat game mechanics. We aren't just talking about one-button crafting, an optional music system, or developer-sanctioned mount racing here, but rather an entire class dedicated to brightening someone else's day.

Today's 19.12 hotfix is billed as the Entertainer update, and it's rather aptly named given the lengthy list of tweaks coming to dancers and musicians across the galaxy far, far away. The Entertainer class is receiving a complete expertise tree revamp (and a complimentary reset), new combat buffs, new hairstyles for image design abilities, new dance moves, a new flourish, and several new commands (including a new perform tab).

That's a lot of new, but it's not all of it, and you can read the complete list of changes and additions on the official SWG forums.

MassivelyStar Wars Galaxies rolls out the Entertainer update originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dancersentertainersimage-designersmusiciansnon-combatnon-combat-gameplaypatchsandboxsci-fisocial-gameplaysocial-professionssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgtweaksupdateThu, 24 Mar 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New ArcheAge Q&A translated on official site]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/new-archeage-qanda-translated-on-official-site/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/new-archeage-qanda-translated-on-official-site/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/new-archeage-qanda-translated-on-official-site/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Here at Massively, we've been obsessing over ArcheAge for many months (see our exclusive interview with lead dev Jake Song from last fall). The upcoming sandbox title from XL Games almost sounds too good to be true for virtual world enthusiasts due to its focus on non-combat activities (cultivating, crafting, and sailing, to name a few) as well as its territorial control and PvP aspects.

While ArcheAge news is scarce in America and Europe, the game is undergoing extensive beta testing in its native Korea, and a recent developer Q&A has popped up on the title's official website. Though brief, the blurb contains a couple of nifty insights, chief among them the existence of 10 skill trees as well as confirmation of the game's seamless open-world design.

You can check out the source article (in Korean) or the translation for more details.

MassivelyNew ArcheAge Q&A translated on official site originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagebetaclosed-betacraftingcultivationfantasyjake-songkorean-betanon-combatopen-worldplease-dont-sucksandboxskill-treesxl-gamesThu, 10 Mar 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Anti-Aliased: How I mine for craft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/anti-aliased-how-i-mine-for-craft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/anti-aliased-how-i-mine-for-craft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/anti-aliased-how-i-mine-for-craft/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This column was bound to come sometime. We've had legions of people asking us, "Why don't you cover Minecraft? It's totally an MMO!" The email barrage was so constant that I had nightmarish fits in my sleep, where I was drowning in oddly block-shaped emails pouring out of my ceiling.

Now, after I've finally played Minecraft, my nightmarish fits have turned into scenes in which I'm being attacked by giant block-shaped spiders, but that's neither here nor there.

I can see why people have fallen in love with this game, and they have every reason to. Minecraft may not be an MMO by our standards, but it is an example of gaming done right. It's the purest form of everything we love about gaming, and it's a game that could teach MMO makers a lot about design, should they care to listen.

Continue reading Anti-Aliased: How I mine for craft

MassivelyAnti-Aliased: How I mine for craft originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-aliasedcooperativecraftingcreativefarmingfeaturedgame-designminecraftminingmmo-designmmo-game-designmojang-specificationsmultiplayernon-combatnotchsingle-playerThu, 30 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC09: Interview with The Secret World's creator, Ragnar Tørnquist pt. 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/gdc09-interview-with-the-secret-worlds-creator-ragnar-tornpt2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/gdc09-interview-with-the-secret-worlds-creator-ragnar-tornpt2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/gdc09-interview-with-the-secret-worlds-creator-ragnar-tornpt2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


So, with expansions, you said that you'll be starting out with New York, London, and Seoul, right?

Yes. Those will be the first cities, the hub cities, available at the start of the game.

Now, the gameplay takes you beyond that, yes?

Oh yeah, absolutely. We're not doing all New York, or all of London, or all of Seoul. We are actually doing very tight and very constrained neighborhoods there. That's where you'll start your gameplay, but they won't be the large, huge open zones where you have tons of gameplay or tons of monsters. That will be left to areas like Egypt and New England, which will be more expansive and include more open-world mechanics and other things that we're not revealing quite yet. We will also be including more instanced and team-based areas as well.

Regarding expansion packs, yeah, we're going to expand beyond what we already will include. It's not like we're going to run out of content, the world is a big place.

Yes, I was going to ask if it will expand into more locations and cities throughout the world.

Yes, it certainly will, but it won't be limited to just that. We have more interesting locations but they won't be limited to just our world. We will be including locations throughout time and space itself.

I want to emphasize that this won't be something like Grand Theft Auto with magic, with a focus on huge, huge open cities. They are reasonably small places where you will start out and take the adventure from there. But one very important thing to note is that this sounds like a very fragmented world. London, New York, Seoul, those cities are a long way away from each other. But we are creating, or at least trying to create, a pretty seamless world. This means there are ways of getting from London to New York very quickly, and we are focusing on that. You won't be just walking up to a plane, clicking on it, and getting a red line that quickly points to where you're going and boom, you're there. You will be moving in real-time from London to New York, just a lot quicker.

There's alot of traditional MMO components that are around now. We're kinda in a new generation of MMO, and people are tired of World of Warcraft model and they're looking for something new. This is certainly in that realm. Are you guys trying to get away from traditional models, like crafting, and moving to something new?

Ah, I can't really talk about crafting right now. What I can say is that while combat is a core focus, we really want other non-combat stuff in the game. We're just not going to be talking about them as of yet. But there will be gameplay that isn't all about fighting monsters or exploring. There will be other things that you will be able to do.

Like you said earlier, like mysteries?

That, yes, that also and there will be other ways for people to play in the game, to participate in the game, that isn't about traveling around the world. Exactly what that is, I can't say as of yet.

Now, will there be a player driven economy?

Well, I can't speak much about that now, but there will be ways for players to take part in the economy. Sorry for being so cryptic, but trying to keep this very focused and very narrow for now.

And player guilds?

Ah, we are going to have cabals, yes. There will be a point to making cabals, and it will play a very large role in the game, but exactly what that is I'm not going to say as of now.

We are a game and we are focusing on the social aspects of the game. We are, in some aspects, a story driven game and alot of it you can play solo, but we really want to emphasize that it is an MMO. There will be stuff that will require you to team up with people in small groups and also in larger teams, without me going into deeper detail.

I hate having to keep saying I can't talk about this stuff.

Oh, so what about in-game factions?

...and I can't talk about that. *laughs*

Ok, so what about the range between hardcore and casual?

Yeah, well, we always say we're going to cover all of it, but the fact is that you can't the game for everybody. So I think we're leaning towards... *sighs* I wouldn't say the casual, because when you talk about MMOs and casual you usually end up at Club Penguin or something like that, and we're really not there. We're somewhere between halfway, I think. There's tons of stuff for the hardcore MMO players, like the whole skill based system and the tweaking that you do to those types of systems with numbers and all the items we'll have, and that will be a hardcore player's dream. But I think in terms of time investment and what's required of you, we're leaning towards the middle ground. It will be fun for MMO players, but it will be equally fun for someone who just likes the idea of a world that has a bunch of other people in it, is completely open, you can play it online, and you can chat, but doesn't feel so unfriendly and unwelcoming as other MMOs.

So, would your target audience be someone who has played MMOs?

I think a large part of our target audience is who are playing or have played MMOs. We want it to be different enough for them to come back or a game that is different enough to have them come to play it with their friends. In addition to action/adventure gamers who play games like Fable 2 for the Xbox 360 and just want to try their hand at something that's online and not feel completely eliminated and have something that's recognizable to them.

We'd like to thank Ragnar for meeting with us at the GDC, and we're looking forward to more information on The Secret World!

MassivelyGDC09: Interview with The Secret World's creator, Ragnar Tørnquist pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualcitiesfuncomgameplaygdc-2009guildshardcoreinterviewlondonmassively-interviewsnew-yorknon-combatopen-worldragnarseoulthe-secret-worldtswxbox-360Tue, 07 Apr 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Retcons, non-combat and superpowered travelling in Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/retcons-non-combat-and-superpowered-travelling-in-champions-onl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/retcons-non-combat-and-superpowered-travelling-in-champions-onl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/retcons-non-combat-and-superpowered-travelling-in-champions-onl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The first Ask Cryptic for Champions Online in February spends a lot of time clearing up questions concerning travel powers, non-combat features and, well, even more non-combat features. Yeah, this set of questions definitely run the gamut -- but that's how we like 'em!

What caught our attention in this one was the reveal of respecs in the game or as Cryptic is calling them, "Retcons" It sounds like we may actually be able to get Retcons on specific power choices in Champions Online. Our reason for thinking this comes from the line saying, "Up to a certain level, retcons are fairly cheap, but the higher the level of your character, the more thorough the retcon, the more expensive." While this could simply be some miscommunication, it does sound like less thorough Retcons will be available to those looking for only a little take-back.

Additionally, there's a good amount of discussion on how physics and the balancing of travel powers in combat works as well. Mostly it's concerning the functionary bits on how it'll all work in the game come launch, but if you're interested in that you should definitely check this one out.

MassivelyRetcons, non-combat and superpowered travelling in Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticatarichampions-onlinecryptic-studiosnon-combatrespecretconretconstravel-powersTue, 03 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Discovering Champions Online's evidence and investigation systems]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/discovering-champions-onlines-evidence-and-investigation-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/discovering-champions-onlines-evidence-and-investigation-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/23/discovering-champions-onlines-evidence-and-investigation-system/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Another series of community-supplied questions and answers is sitting on the Champions Online website just in time for the weekend. As usual, Cryptic cherry-picked a nice variety of inquiries that vary from how much non-combat content the game would have, to whether or not in-game social gathering locations an events were planned.

Social spots/events are being facilitated in a big way, so no surprises there. Although you may find yourself a little surprised concerning non-combat in Champions Online. Combat? There's a lot of it - shock! But that doesn't mean Cryptic is blind to the fact that some superheroes do much more than pound faces until they look like a bowl of meat pudding.

Continue reading Discovering Champions Online's evidence and investigation systems

MassivelyDiscovering Champions Online's evidence and investigation systems originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticatarichampions-onlinecommunitycyrpticevidence-systeminvestigation-systemnon-combatsocialsocial-eventsFri, 23 Jan 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Is combat necessary?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/01/the-daily-grind-is-combat-necessary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/01/the-daily-grind-is-combat-necessary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/01/the-daily-grind-is-combat-necessary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

For most of us the term 'MMO' conjures up images of combat, whether within a medieval fantasy setting, or a science fiction milieu. Other images are mixed in there, too, of course, but I'd wager that fighting is the one that pops up most often. It's so common, in fact, that when a game deviates from this norm, attention is called to it. Take Mabinogi, for instance -- many of its features are non-combat-based, like the aging system, or the ability to create MIDI-based music, or the creation and management of a household with a spouse.

I didn't realize how refreshing the thought of not having to constantly battle creatures to progress in a game was until Mabinogi offered me these alternatives. This makes me ask the question: is combat really an integral element of an MMO? Would you play a game that lacked it completely?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Is combat necessary? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Mar 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agingbattlecombatdark-age-of-camelotfantasyhuxleymedievalmidinon-combatscience-fictionthe-daily-grindSat, 01 Mar 2008 08:00:00 EST