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[SOE announces in-game Valentine's activities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/soe-announces-in-game-valentines-activities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/soe-announces-in-game-valentines-activities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/soe-announces-in-game-valentines-activities/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - The Shard of Love
Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and aside from mad dashes to the Hallmark store for cards and boxes of chocolate, the season is also typified by various MMO events. This year is no different, and Sony Online Entertainment is queuing up a couple of noteworthy shindigs in EverQuest II and Free Realms.

Norrathians will be celebrating Erollisi Day from February 7th through the 20th, and there are plenty of contests, quests, and love-soaked goings-on to keep everyone happy. Free Realms' Festival of Hearts lasts a bit longer (February 7th through March 8th to be exact), during which time players may partake of Valentine's Day-themed environments, quests, and reward items.

Finally, Star Wars: Clone Wars Adventures is re-introducing a few Valentine's Day items to its StationCash markeplace, and you'll find more info on each game's celebration events at their respective official sites.

[Source: SOE press release]

MassivelySOE announces in-game Valentine's activities originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clone-wars-adventureseq2eqiierollisi-dayeventseverquest-2everquest-iif2pfamilyfantasyfree-realmsfree-to-playin-game-eventskidsnorrathsci-fisoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-clone-wars-adventuresvalentines-dayMon, 06 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: A look at EQII's dungeon maker]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/some-assembly-required-a-look-at-eqiis-dungeon-maker/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/some-assembly-required-a-look-at-eqiis-dungeon-maker/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/some-assembly-required-a-look-at-eqiis-dungeon-maker/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - architectural banner
So you're an armchair game designer, eh? Well, EverQuest II invites you to put your money where your mouth is -- at least as it relates to dungeon creation.

While Sony Online Entertainment's venerable fantasy title is no stranger to player-generated content given its spectacular player- and guild-housing mechanics, this winter's Age of Discovery expansion upped the ante a little bit in the form of the new dungeon maker toolset. The system is a bit rough around the edges, but it's nonetheless a fantastic first iteration that adds a lot of fun and replay value to an MMO that was already chock-full of both.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: A look at EQII's dungeon maker

MassivelySome Assembly Required: A look at EQII's dungeon maker originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-discoveryarmchair-designarmchair-developerdesigndungeon-makerdungeonseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgrindnon-combat-gameplaynorrathopinionpgcplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentroleplayroleplayingsandboxsandparksome-assembly-requiredxp-grindFri, 20 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should max-level characters give account XP bonuses?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-daily-grind-should-max-level-characters-give-account-xp-bon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-daily-grind-should-max-level-characters-give-account-xp-bon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-daily-grind-should-max-level-characters-give-account-xp-bon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Tier'dal in Lavastorm
I recently hit EverQuest II's adventuring cap for the first time (yay!), and aside from being surprised that it finally happened, I was also in for a bit of a shock when I logged into the character select screen the following day.

You see, EQII gives each character on your account a 20% XP bonus per max-level character. So all my subsequent toons will enjoy an extra 20% XP across the board, and if I were to get another guy to 90, all my toons would then have a 40% bonus (up to a maximum of 200%). While this is fantastic for players like yours truly who despise the leveling process, it seems like an odd design decision given that a lot of people like to grind. Also, EQII has more leveling content than most MMOs put together, and it's crazy to think how much of it you'll miss if you get even more bonus XP.

Sure, you can chronomage down a few levels and do zones that you blew by, or you can adjust your XP/AA ratio (or turn off XP altogether if you want), but the bonuses still speed up the curve significantly. What about you, Massively folk? Do you think max-level characters should grant bonuses to the rest of your toons?

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: Should max-level characters give account XP bonuses? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgame-discussiongamer-discussiongrindlevelingmax-level-bonus-xpmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsnorrathopinionsoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttdgthe-daily-grindThu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE makes EQII veteran rewards available to F2P players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/soe-makes-eqii-veteran-rewards-available-to-f2p-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/soe-makes-eqii-veteran-rewards-available-to-f2p-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/soe-makes-eqii-veteran-rewards-available-to-f2p-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Mistmoore Estate veteran reward
Sony Online Entertainment is pulling out all the stops when it comes to the courtship of EverQuest II's new free-to-play constituency. In a post on the game's official boards, producer Dave "Smokejumper" Georgeson has announced that both free and silver-level players are now eligible for the fantasy title's extensive veteran rewards program.

Georgeson's post is short and to the point as he briefly outlines SOE's approach. "There are a lot more [payment] options available to folks, and it just doesn't make sense that a free or silver player shouldn't be able to accumulate veteran rewards," he explains. You can view both the announcement post and a feedback thread on the official EQII forums.

MassivelySOE makes EQII veteran rewards available to F2P players originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-georgesoneq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playnorrathsmokejumpersoeSony-Online-Entertainmentvet-rewardsveteran-rewardsFri, 09 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New launchpad coming to all EverQuest II users tomorrow [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/new-launchpad-coming-to-all-everquest-ii-users-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/new-launchpad-coming-to-all-everquest-ii-users-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/new-launchpad-coming-to-all-everquest-ii-users-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Kingdom of Sky islands
EverQuest II's official site has updated with a news blurb heralding the launch of, er, well, a new launcher. Currently, Sony Online Entertainment's fantasy title has multiple access points including the streaming launcher, the retail box launcher, and SOE's station launcher.

As of November 30th, all EQII users will be migrated to a new launchpad.

What's new about it? Well for starters, it doesn't require Flash. It also boasts a "much faster patching speed" and a "general aesthetic upgrade." The migration process should be painless for the end user, as Dave "Smokejumper" Georgeson says that all you'll have to do is point the new launcher at your existing EQII directory when prompted. There's a bit more info on the official site if you're curious.

[Update]: EQ2Wire has a great dev rundown on what exactly is coming with the new launcher.

MassivelyNew launchpad coming to all EverQuest II users tomorrow [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-georgesoneq2eq2-launchereqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playlaunchernew-launchernorrathpatchessmokejumpersoeSony-Online-EntertainmentTue, 29 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EQII Age of Discovery pre-orders available]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/eqii-age-of-discovery-pre-orders-available/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/eqii-age-of-discovery-pre-orders-available/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/eqii-age-of-discovery-pre-orders-available/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - dark elves dungeon-running
EverQuest II may be gearing up for free-to-play, but Sony Online Entertainment is still charging a premium for the game's latest digital expansion. When Age of Discovery launches next month, the content pack will be available in two flavors: A regular edition for $39.99 and a collector's bundle for $59.99. The catch is that the collector's edition price is actually a discount, and if players fail to pre-order the pack, the price increases to a whopping $89.99.

What do you get for such a princely sum?

In addition to the new AoD content, players will receive a flying mount, a cloak, a robe, a Lavastorm house, a Beastlord pet, two dungeon-maker mob spawners, and a custom dungeon-maker map layout.

SOE has yet to announce an official release date for Age of Discovery, nor does the company's announcement page say when pre-orders will close. We'll keep you updated as we learn more.

MassivelyEQII Age of Discovery pre-orders available originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-discoverydungeon-makereq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playnorrathpre-ordersoeSony-Online-EntertainmentFri, 11 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EQOA
In the pantheon of Sony Online Entertainment's flagship EverQuest franchise, there is a whole family of MMOs gathered around the table every evening. There's Papa EverQuest, looking a little wrinkled and worn but also radiating fame and authority. Next to him is Mama EverQuest II, a powerful matron of entertainment if there ever was one. They look proudly down the table at a bassinet where Baby EverQuest Next lies, cooing as it grows into the future generation of this family.

Then, in the next room over is a cabinet. The cabinet is locked. Inside that cabinet is a weird abnormality that certainly looks like a member of the family, but he hasn't seen the light of day in quite some time. He subsists on the scraps of an aging console and the fading loyalty of fans, hoping against odds that one day he'll be allowed out for a stroll or something. His name is Cousin EverQuest Online Adventures, the EQ MMO nobody mentions.

EQOA is a strange abnormality in SOE's lineup. While it was one of the very first console MMOs and heir to the EverQuest name, it was quickly eclipsed in both areas by other games and left alone. Yet, against all odds, it continues to operate on the PlayStation 2, eight years and counting since its debut.

This month the Game Archaeologist will crack open that cabinet and give this interesting MMO a few weeks of attention and care. I think it's about time, don't you?

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-adventureben-bellchurnclint-worleyconsole-mmodreamcasteqeqiieqoaeverquesteverquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-online-adventureseverquest-online-adventures-frontiersexpansionfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xifrontiersnorrathphantasy-star-onlineplanetside-2playstation-2playstation-3ps2ps3psorod-humblesoesony-online-entertainmentthe-game-archaeologistvideoTue, 08 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest's Veil of Alaris expansion slated for November 15th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/everquests-veil-of-alaris-expansion-slated-for-november-15th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/everquests-veil-of-alaris-expansion-slated-for-november-15th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/everquests-veil-of-alaris-expansion-slated-for-november-15th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EverQuest - Veil of Alaris logo
EverQuest's graphics aren't the only thing dated when it comes to Norrath! Oooh, yeah, that was cold, but the good news is that we still love dear old EQ, and we'll be checking out expansion number 1,342,756 (actually, number 18) in just a couple of weeks.

We know this because Sony Online Entertainment has announced the official release date for the Veil of Alaris content update, which is November 15th. Pre-orders have already begun, and you'll want to check out the official pre-order page to see if SOE's digital carrots are enough to entice you to part with your hard-earned dollars prior to release day.

MassivelyEverQuest's Veil of Alaris expansion slated for November 15th originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-collectors-editioneqeverquestexpansionfantasynew-contentnorrathpatchpre-ordersoeSony-Online-Entertainmentveil-of-alarisWed, 26 Oct 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE reveals EverQuest Resplendent Temple video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/soe-reveals-everquest-resplendent-temple-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/soe-reveals-everquest-resplendent-temple-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/soe-reveals-everquest-resplendent-temple-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest - Resplendent Temple
It's time for another EverQuest Veil of Alaris sneak peek video, this time featuring the Resplendent Temple. The structure is, well, sort of resplendent, and Sony Online Entertainment developers Julie Burness and Rob Cuenca narrate a two-minute trek through the new zone surrounding the majestic centerpiece.

The content will be available with EQ's latest expansion, and Cuenca says that the zone pushes the limits of what's possible with EQ's technology. There are plenty of mobs to be found in, around, and under the temple, including a race of pig-people that live off the refuse generated by the temple above (yes, really, and eww). Check out the clip after the cut and head to the official EQ website to learn more about the expansion.

Continue reading SOE reveals EverQuest Resplendent Temple video

MassivelySOE reveals EverQuest Resplendent Temple video originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alariseqeverquestexpansionfantasyjulie-burnessnorrathpig-peopleresplendent-templerob-cuencasoeSony-Online-Entertainmentveil-of-alarisvideozone-previewzonesMon, 24 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest's Temple of the Sea unveiled in new video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/everquests-temple-of-the-sea-unveiled-in-new-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/everquests-temple-of-the-sea-unveiled-in-new-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/everquests-temple-of-the-sea-unveiled-in-new-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EverQuest - Veil of Alaris
Sony Online Entertainment is ramping up the publicity for EverQuest's 18th expansion. The Veil of Alaris content pack is scheduled to debut this November, and the latest teaser on offer from SOE takes us deep inside Rubak Oseka (otherwise known as the Temple of the Sea).

In terms of EQ lore, the temple was constructed using an enormous conch shell and is dedicated to one of the greatest heroes of the Alaran people. In the real world, the zone is the handiwork of designers Ed Hardin and Norm Freeman, along with environment artist Alan Bond. All three offer a bit of insight via the latest Veil of Alaris preview video, and you can see it after the break.

Continue reading EverQuest's Temple of the Sea unveiled in new video

MassivelyEverQuest's Temple of the Sea unveiled in new video originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-bondalarised-hardineqeverquestfantasynorm-freemannorrathrubakrubak-osekasoeSony-Online-Entertainmentteasertrailerveil-of-alarisvideoTue, 11 Oct 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EQII patch features Beastlord prelude quest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/eqii-patch-features-beastlord-prelude-quest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/eqii-patch-features-beastlord-prelude-quest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/eqii-patch-features-beastlord-prelude-quest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Beastlord with wolf pet
Sony Online Entertainment pushed a small update to EverQuest II's live servers today. While that's not particularly newsworthy in and of itself, it bears mentioning because the patch brought a hint of the oft-requested Beastlord class to the newest version of Norrath.

EQ2Wire has the details, and also assuages our fears a bit about the necessity of completing the quest prior to the class's official introduction in next months Age of Discovery expansion. As it turns out, today's quest is the second in a series, and it's entirely optional. The quest line provides interested players with some background lore on where the Beastlords have been and why they're now returning to Norrath.

MassivelyEQII patch features Beastlord prelude quest originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-discoverybeast-lordbeastlordclassclassesexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playlorenorrathpet-classpetsquestssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentTue, 11 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II adds dungeon finder, double Station Cash weekend on tap for Europe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - ratonga and tier'dal in Nektropos Castle
Love it or loathe it, the increasingly popular dungeon finder mechanic has finally made its way to Norrath. Today's EverQuest II patch features a variation on the random grouping tool initially made famous in World of Warcraft.

Adventurers can queue solo or as a group by clicking the dungeon finder icon on their EQII menus, and it's worth noting that signing up for a random dungeon will net you a 25% XP boost.

Other patch details worth mentioning include a, ahem, rebalance of the Dirge mythical effect as well as a Troubador revamp. Finally, European EQII fans should be pleased to know that this weekend features a double Station Cash promotion to celebrate the availability of pre-paid SOE game cards at retailers throughout the region.

MassivelyEverQuest II adds dungeon finder, double Station Cash weekend on tap for Europe originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-station-cashdouble-station-cashdungeon-finderdungeonseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgroupingnorrathpatchpromotionsrandom-dungeonsrandom-groupingsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashxp-boostThu, 06 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE readying EverQuest II double XP weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/soe-readying-everquest-ii-double-xp-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/soe-readying-everquest-ii-double-xp-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/soe-readying-everquest-ii-double-xp-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Felwithe mansion player housing
Pick out your favorite grind spots, adventurers (and tradeskillers too, for that matter), as Sony Online Entertainment is trotting out an EverQuest II double experience weekend starting on Friday, September 2nd. The XP smorgasbord will end on Monday, September 5th, so if you've got no plans for the Labor Day weekend as of yet, why not spend a portion of it in Norrath?

It's as good a time as any to check out the new itemization revamp that debuted with the recent GU 61 patch, and don't forget that the bonus applies to alternate advancement experience as well. More details are available via EQ2Wire and the official EQII website.

MassivelySOE readying EverQuest II double XP weekend originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpdouble-xpdouble-xp-weekendeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgu-61norrathpromotionssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentThu, 01 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II's GU61 going live today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/everquest-iis-gu61-going-live-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/everquest-iis-gu61-going-live-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/everquest-iis-gu61-going-live-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - porting home
Those of you trying to log into EverQuest II this morning may have been greeted by a crashing launchpad or some variation on the standard "service offline" message. Fear not, as it's patch day, and the servers will be back sooner rather than later (we hope).

Game Update 61 is in the offing, and EQ2Wire has an extensive breakdown of the patch notes for what is one of the more significant non-expansion updates in the history of the game. Aside from the alternate advancement tweaks, the most significant change is a complete loot and itemization revamp. This means that there's no reason to restrict yourself to the "Golden Path" when it comes to leveling your characters. Norrath is one of the largest and most diverse game worlds in existence, and you should now see level-appropriate loot no matter where in the world you adventure.

Also of note are new dungeons that scale between levels 60 and 90 as well as the house rating system, a native video-capture and YouTube publishing feature, and the ability for your Fae and Arasai characters to fly at level 85 and up. Finally, the official EQII site has a lengthy new lore passage related to the update, and you can bone up on what's happening with the War of Zek while you're waiting for the servers to restart.

MassivelyEverQuest II's GU61 going live today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeonseq2eqiieqii-gu-61everquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgolden-pathgu-61gu61itemizationloot-revamplorenorrathpatchpatchesscaling-dungeonssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentvideo-capturewar-of-zekThu, 25 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New video shows creation of EverQuest II raptor concept]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/new-video-shows-creation-of-everquest-ii-raptor-concept/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/new-video-shows-creation-of-everquest-ii-raptor-concept/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/new-video-shows-creation-of-everquest-ii-raptor-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - raptor sketch
It's not often that we get to see behind the curtain on our favorite MMORPGs, and Sony Online Entertainment has teamed with PC Gamer to give us one of those opportunities. EverQuest II recently released a slew of new mounts, among them flyers, gliders, and leapers that give players the ability to soar over the wilds of Norrath like never before.

SOE production artist Nate Temple kept a video record of his concept design for one of the game's new raptor leapers, and we get to see the complete sketch unfold before our eyes thanks to the time-lapse wizardry on display in the five-minute clip. Temple shows off his mad Photoshop skills and provides a good bit of interesting commentary, so jump past the cut to check it out!

Continue reading New video shows creation of EverQuest II raptor concept

MassivelyNew video shows creation of EverQuest II raptor concept originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptconcept-artcrustacean-perioddev-diaryeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playleaper-mountnate-templenorrathproduction-artraptorraptor-mounttime-lapse-videovideovideo-diaryWed, 24 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Players bracing for EverQuest II's GU61 AA changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/players-bracing-for-everquest-iis-gu61-aa-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/players-bracing-for-everquest-iis-gu61-aa-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/players-bracing-for-everquest-iis-gu61-aa-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - leaper in Rivervale
Big changes are afoot in the world of Norrath, or at least the version of it on display in EverQuest II. Game Update 61 is just around the corner, and ZAM has a brief rundown on the major alternate advancement and tradeskill changes coming when the patch goes live.

While many players are cautiously optimistic, some are concerned over the fact that such sweeping changes will affect their playstyles. How sweeping, exactly? Well, every character is getting a free AA respec, so there's your first clue. Also of note are the new class, subclass, and tradeskill trees available at level 10. Of particular concern to some is the fact that the Shadows AA tree will now be off limits to characters under level 50, depriving them of some very useful health, power, and run-speed AAs and making life that much harder for dedicated crafting characters.

In other EQII news, EQ2Wire offers a brief look at the veteran reward changes hinted at during last month's Fan Faire. While no release date is forthcoming, producer Dave "Smokejumper" Georgeson says that "the design is outlined and we're committed to the concept."

MassivelyPlayers bracing for EverQuest II's GU61 AA changes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaalternate-advancementdave-georgesoneq2eqii-gu-61everquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-update-61gu-61if-it-aint-broke-dont-fix-itnorrathshadows-nerfshadows-treesmokejumpersoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttradeskill-aatradeskill-alternate-advancementveteran-rewardsWed, 17 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Double XP coming to EverQuest II this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/double-xp-coming-to-everquest-ii-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/double-xp-coming-to-everquest-ii-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/double-xp-coming-to-everquest-ii-this-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Citizens of Norrath, mark your calendars! Bonus experience is coming to EverQuest II this weekend and you'll want to be sure to avail yourself of what the EQII website calls a "true double XP promotion (+100% XP)."

The bonus applies to adventure, tradeskill, and alternate advancement experience, so don't leave your crafter alts or level-locked and AA-starved characters out in the cold. Double XP starts at 12:01 a.m. PDT on Friday, July 29th and runs through 11:59 p.m. PDT on Sunday, July 31st. It's also good across all the game servers including the free-to-play EQII Extended shard and French, German, and Japanese realms.

MassivelyDouble XP coming to EverQuest II this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaadventuringalternate-advancementbonus-xpdouble-experiencedouble-xpdouble-xp-weekendeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgrindgrindinglevelsnorrathsoeSony-Online-EntertainmenttradeskillsWed, 27 Jul 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Recruit-a-Friend program comes to EverQuest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment's Recruit-a-Friend program (otherwise known as the powerlevel-your-alts-with-multiple-accounts program) has been a hit in EverQuest II for quite some time now. It's only natural that the initiative make its way to the original incarnation of Norrath, and SOE's Piestro has posted a notice on the official EverQuest boards marking just such an occasion.

Recruits and recruiters will enjoy a wealth of benefits including in-game mounts, bonus Station Cash, Legends of Norrath booster packs, a unique title, and of course, loads of bonus XP. Check out all the details on the o-boards, then hit up the official RaF page to get started.

MassivelyRecruit-a-Friend program comes to EverQuest originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpeqeverquestfantasyin-game-itemsmmo-industrymountsnorrathpiestropromotionsrafrecruit-a-friendsoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttitlesxpxp-bonusSat, 02 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II offers 10 houses per character, double XP and Station Cash this Saturday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/everquest-ii-offers-10-houses-per-character-double-xp-and-stati/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/everquest-ii-offers-10-houses-per-character-double-xp-and-stati/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/everquest-ii-offers-10-houses-per-character-double-xp-and-stati/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Player housing. Say it with me, folks.

Plaaaaaayer housssssssing.

Yes, some games still have it. More importantly, some players still want it. EverQuest II is one of a dwindling number of games that does it right (or at all really, if we're talking about recent MMOs), and yesterday's update expanded Norrath's housing functionality even further. Players can now own up to 10 separate homes (yes, 10), provided they meet the in-game and/or account-related prerequisites in each case.

There's also a spiffy new fast-travel functionality associated with the housing boom. In a nutshell, players can place portals in any house or guild hall to which they have trustee access, enabling all sorts of nifty networking opportunities between Norrath's various cities. When coupled with the newly introduced prestige house offerings, domestically inclined EQII buffs should have plenty to do for awhile. In case you need a break from all the furniture-making and decorating, Sony Online Entertainment is throwing a 24-hour double Station Cash (and double XP) bash tomorrow. The event runs from 12:01 a.m. until 11:59 p.m. on April 30th.

MassivelyEverQuest II offers 10 houses per character, double XP and Station Cash this Saturday originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-station-cashdouble-xpeq2eqiieventseverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playhousingnon-combat-gameplaynorrathplayer-housingsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentFri, 29 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II's Georgeson mentions free max-level toons, community foams at the mouth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/everquest-iis-georgeson-mentions-free-max-level-toons-communit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/everquest-iis-georgeson-mentions-free-max-level-toons-communit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/everquest-iis-georgeson-mentions-free-max-level-toons-communit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EverQuest II producer Dave "Smokejumper" Georgeson recently touched off a firestorm of controversy by asking the fantasy game's community how it would feel about a win-back promotion featuring free max-level characters. Predictably, the howls of protest are still reverberating around the internet, and EQ2Wire has a bit of analysis regarding both the discussion and the high-level flying mount portion of the game's latest expansion that led to it.

Despite the fact that Georgeson was clearly engaging in a bit of speculative thinking with the community (i.e., there are no plans for EQII insta-90s), and despite the fact that Guild Wars has been offering max-level PvP toons since 2005, the EQII discussion quickly turned hostile and demonstrated the minefields that developers must occasionally navigate when engaging their playerbase.

MassivelyEverQuest II's Georgeson mentions free max-level toons, community foams at the mouth originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>90community-discussioncontroversydave-georgesoneq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyflying-mountsfree-max-level-characterfree-to-playgrindmax-levelnorrathsmokejumpersoeSony-Online-EntertainmentSat, 23 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest gearing up for more content despite SOE layoffs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/everquest-gearing-up-for-more-content-despite-soe-layoffs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/everquest-gearing-up-for-more-content-despite-soe-layoffs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/everquest-gearing-up-for-more-content-despite-soe-layoffs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In the wake of last week's layoffs, fans are no doubt wondering which of their favorite Sony Online Entertainment MMOs will be feeling a possible staffing pinch. The company's venerable EverQuest title is apparently safe -- and none the worse for wear -- according to a letter by producer Thom Terrazas that was posted last night on the game's official forums.

Not only will EQ business continue as usual, but the original incarnation of Norrath will be receiving even more content than it has in the past. "We're going to bring you high-level and enjoyable content throughout the year, even more than we have in past years," Terrazas explained, before mentioning the dev team's plans for more frequent seasonal events and the desire to "beef up the gameplay experience" during the spring and summer months.

MassivelyEverQuest gearing up for more content despite SOE layoffs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contenteqeventseverquestfantasylayoffsnew-contentnorrathproducers-letterproducers-notesoesony-online-entertainmentthom-terrazasWed, 06 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrate EQ's 12 years with a look back and an interview with John Smedley]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/celebrate-eqs-12-years-with-a-look-back-and-an-interview-with-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/celebrate-eqs-12-years-with-a-look-back-and-an-interview-with-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/celebrate-eqs-12-years-with-a-look-back-and-an-interview-with-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Time grows many layers, and this is especially true in MMORPGs. After all, not only are new quests, stories and chunks of content added to a game as it goes along, but the players themselves add their own memories and experiences to the mix. MMOs truly are virtual worlds, and they change over time and become richer. EverQuest is no exception. After 12 years of adventure, danger, and story-telling, the game shows no signs of stopping.

What is planned for the game? How will the last 12 years affect the decisions for the next 12 years? EverQuest has been one of the flagships of the genre, but how does a game of its age maintain any type of market visibility? Massively sat down with SOE President John Smedley, EQ Assistant Lead Designer Alan VanCouvering, and Associate Producer Harvey Burgess to find out. We'll also be taking a look back at the long history of Norrath and will even throw in some nuggets about EverQuest Next.

Click past the cut and let's take a look!

Continue reading Celebrate EQ's 12 years with a look back and an interview with John Smedley

MassivelyCelebrate EQ's 12 years with a look back and an interview with John Smedley originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12th-anniversaryAlan-VanCouveringanniversarybeau-hindmanbirthdaychampions-of-norratheqEQ2EQIIeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-online-adventuresfeaturedfippy-darkpawhappy-birthdayhardcoreharvey-burgessinterviewjohn-smedleyNorrathshadows-of-luclinSOESony-Online-EntertainmentWorld-of-Warcraftwowwow-cloneWed, 16 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest giving away 12 one-year subscriptions for its 12th anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/everquest-giving-away-12-one-year-subscriptions-for-its-12th-ann/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/everquest-giving-away-12-one-year-subscriptions-for-its-12th-ann/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/everquest-giving-away-12-one-year-subscriptions-for-its-12th-ann/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Twelve years ago, several brave adventurers took their first steps into the world of EverQuest and helped to shape the MMO genre. Now, Sony Online Entertainment is gearing up to celebrate all the myriad achievements between that first day and now -- and the company is kicking everything off with a huge giveaway just perfect for dedicated Norrathians! Earlier today SOE announced a Facebook contest that will hook a dozen lucky winners up with a full year of EverQuest game time. However, much like the game it honors, this giveaway quest is only for those adventurers who savor a challenge.

Starting today, the SOE community team will post a daily image on Facebook that has a trivia question on it. All you have to do is drop by the EverQuest Facebook page, look at the image, and mail your answer in to the company's contest email address. From there, one winner will be picked from all the correct answers received each day until all 12 days' worth of giveaways are done. So, if you're up on your Norrathian trivia and would like to land some free game time, then point your browser at the SOE Facebook page and check out all the details!

MassivelyEverQuest giving away 12 one-year subscriptions for its 12th anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12th-anniversary12th-birthdayanniversarycommunity-teamcontesteqeverquestfacebookfree-game-timehistorynorrathsoeSony-Online-EntertainmenttriviaFri, 04 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II offering aerial races and time-limited aircraft prizes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/everquest-ii-offering-aerial-races-and-time-limited-aircraft-pri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/everquest-ii-offering-aerial-races-and-time-limited-aircraft-pri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/everquest-ii-offering-aerial-races-and-time-limited-aircraft-pri/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Think you've got the right stuff? Maybe you fancy yourself a cracker-jack test pilot? Well, grab your helmet and goggles and get ready to put your money where your mouth is. Sony Online Entertainment is looking for the Norrathian equivalent of Jimmy Doolittle to put some gnomish aircraft through the paces of three new test pilot courses in EverQuest II.

The courses hover over the zones of Butcherblock, Tenebrous Tangle, and Lavastorm and offer players the chance to queue up for a variety of aerial shenanigans. Each course offers its own set of challenges, with Butcherblock being the most hazardous to your virtual health, Tenebrous requiring the most endurance, and Lavastorm necessitating a fair bit of finesse on the control stick. Entering is as easy as your average snap roll: Simply talk to the Gnome next to the scoreboard at each region's entrance, then step on the adjacent teleportation pad.

Participants will nab prizes, and winners will walk away with a unique title and the time-limited use of their own aircraft. The event concludes at 1:00 p.m. EST (10:00 a.m. PST) on Friday, March 3rd, so hurry for your chance to win (and don't forget to check out the video after the break).

Continue reading EverQuest II offering aerial races and time-limited aircraft prizes

MassivelyEverQuest II offering aerial races and time-limited aircraft prizes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air-racesaircrafteq2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pflyingfree-to-playgnomish-air-racesjimmy-doolittlenorrathsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-right-stufftrailervideoWed, 02 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: My expedition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-my-expedition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-my-expedition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-my-expedition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Today I feel a little like Jake from The Blues Brothers, the Jake who, while on the defensive when confronted with his failings, comes up with a laundry list of excuses including earthquakes, flat tires, a lost tuxedo, a stolen car, floods and locusts: "It wasn't my fault, I swear to God!" Yup, Jake, I empathize.

After going through an excellent month of EverQuest on The Game Archaeologist here, I had every intention to marinate in old-fashioned EQ goodness for the very first time in my life. I set several evenings aside, put on my chainmail bikini and Viking hat, and told the computer to, I quote, "Bring it on."

Then the floods and locusts happened, in the form of a number of personal crises compounded by an unexpectedly difficult time just getting into the EverQuest Escape to Norrath unlimited trial. I don't know what's going on over at SOE, but the signup for this trial simply doesn't work. I followed the directions and downloaded the client, but the next screen (which contained the activation key) never appeared. It appears that I'm not alone dealing with this frustrating experience, but long story short, I eventually created a second account to just get the 14-day trial (instead of the unlimited one) to get in the game. By then I was down to just a mere two evenings of EverQuest trompings, which I knew would not be enough to satisfy the fans looking for an in-depth impressions of their favorite game.

So I have to throw myself on your mercy and tell you that I played it, but not nearly as much as I should've. That said, it definitely was an intriguing expedition from which I took away quite a few notes and during which I at least had the opportunity to get my feet wet. What is EverQuest like to an experienced MMO player who's coming to the game for the first time over a decade after it released? Hit the jump and let's see how far down this rabbit hole goes!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: My expedition

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: My expedition originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlinebarbarianbeastlordbeastmasterbeginner-zoneblues-brotherscity-of-heroesddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeqeq2eqiiescape-to-norratheverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iifirst-impressionsframeratehailjakekill-ten-ratsnorrathplanetsidesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesswgthe-blues-brothersthe-game-archaeologistthe-simstutorialuiWorld-of-WarcraftwowTue, 01 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: A cozy chit-chat with Thom Terrazas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-a-cozy-chit-ch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-a-cozy-chit-ch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-a-cozy-chit-ch/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Welcome back to the Game Archaeologist's third week of our EverQuest expedition! So, OK, we lost a few valued members of our team crossing the wilds of Norrath, but who would ever think that 10 rats could be so vicious when out for vengeance? It comes with the territory, and really, it's well worth the loss of human life if we can educate just one soul on one of the most influential MMOs of all time. Their mothers will understand their sacrifice.

We've already taken a look at the highlights of EverQuest and the perspectives of several veterans of the game, which means this week we must be gearing up for an inside look into the machinations of grinding, hell levels, alternative advancement and DKP. For this, we struggled through the Swamp of Sony to find the ramshackle hut of Thom Terrazas -- and he was expecting us. A fight ensued, with many a chicken flung in anger, not to mention a few pokes in the eye, Three Stooges-style. But in the end, Terrazas capitulated and told us everything we wanted to know.

Thom Terrazas almost has all his SOE merit badges, having worked on Planetside, Vanguard and now EverQuest in various roles. I was curious -- what was it like to be handed the keys to not just a game, but a veritable institution? Hit the jump to see what Terrazas has to say about his favorite memories, the future of the game, and why EQ hit it out of the park in 1999.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: A cozy chit-chat with Thom Terrazas

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: A cozy chit-chat with Thom Terrazas originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>989-studiosAlan-VanCouveringcircle-of-lifecommunitycustomer-servicedkpdndDoug-CronkhiteDungeons-and-Dragonseqeq-nexteq2eqiieqoaeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-online-adventuresexpansionf2pfree-to-playgame-breakergame-mastergmhousingLydia-Popemlbneeeeerdsnorrathplanes-of-powerplanetsideplayer-housingraidraidingscars-of-veliousshadows-of-luclinsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentswamp-of-sonythe-game-archaeologistthe-ruins-of-kunarkthom-terrazasthree-stoogesunderwearvanguardTue, 18 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-highlights/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

To many veteran MMO players, the opening horns of EverQuest's score are enough to trigger vivid memories, violent hallucinations, and an unstoppable desire to leap through the computer screen to return to Norrath. It all depends, of course, on which MMO you first cut your teeth, and while many gamers would claim titles like World of Warcraft as their first, there is a large contingent who will confess that EQ was their first MMO lover.

In fact, before WoW came on the scene in 2004, EverQuest was the gold standard of MMOs for a half-decade -- it was insanely popular, perfectly addictive, and absolutely revolutionary. It was a giant that roamed the virtual lands of those days, a giant that continues to forge new grounds well over a decade from its inception.

It was 1995 when John Smedley realized the potential for online gaming and roped in Brad McQuaid and Steve Clover to start putting together an online RPG for SOE. What began as a small project ballooned into a crazy endeavor as the growing team created a monster RPG the likes the world had never seen before -- a game that would forever shape the MMO genre.

This month, the Game Archaeologist is going after one of the biggest treasures of recorded history as we unearth the secrets to EverQuest's popularity, legacy, and longevity. The first step on our journey is to look at some of the highlights that made EQ what it is today.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.5-dacAlex-Afrasiabiasherons-callbrad-mcquaidclone-wars-adventuresdc-universe-onlinedcuodikumuddingdkpdoomDuke-Nukem-3De-deqeq-iieq2evercrackedevercracked-the-phenomenom-of-everquesteverquestEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iiexpansionsfarmfree-realmshouse-of-thuleignj-allen-brackjace-halljeff-kaplanjohn-smedleykunarkmeridian-59mezzmudnerfnichenorrathPirates-of-the-Burning-Seaplanetsideprocraph-kosterrezrob-pardoshadows-of-luclinsoesonySony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstation-accesssteve-cloversubscription-numberssubscriptionsswgthe-game-archaeologistthe-matrix-onlinethe-ruins-of-kunarkultima-onlineunderfootuovanguardverantverant-interactiveWorld-of-WarcraftwowTue, 04 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: MMO cataclysms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/the-perfect-ten-mmo-cataclysms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/the-perfect-ten-mmo-cataclysms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/the-perfect-ten-mmo-cataclysms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Today sees the launch of World of Warcraft: Cataclysm, which represents a destructive "reboot" button on the world of Azeroth. The old has been made new by virtue of fiery explosions that have rent the very earth in twain, and WoW gamers will have to find their footing all over again. As you might imagine, it's made one big-ass mess, which is compounded by the fact that there are no janitor classes in the game to sweep it up (the next hero class, perhaps?).

However, the notion of an in-game cataclysm is hardly the sole domain of Activision-Blizzard; on the contrary, large-scale apocalypses pop up all the time in MMOs. After all, nothing grabs the attention like the end of the world (but hey, you still feel fine)!

In a list that in no way is meant to capitalize on any expansions that may or may not be on the market, we're going to strap on our Kevlar suits, slather our arms with 1000 SPF sunblock, and take a brief tour of 10 worlds that have dated cataclysms -- and lived to tell the tale.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: MMO cataclysms

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: MMO cataclysms originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activision-Blizzardagent-smithapocalypsearenanetascalonazerothbanebig-bangblizzardc-storecataclysmchampionschampions-onlinechickenscity-of-heroescohcrypticcryptic-studioscrystal-warcrystal-war-revisiteddetroitelrondEverQuest-2everquest-iifacebookfallen-earthff11ffxifinal-fantasy-xigethguild-warsgwhumoricarus-studiosjack-emmertjohn-smedleykiller-virusklingonmaplestorymegatronmillennium-citymono-dohmonorailncsoftnew-game-enhancementsnew-jerseyngenorrathnuclear-warparagon-cityperfect-10perfect-tenpicardpost-apocalypticpost-searingquadavrex-the-sheepdogriktiromulansearingsoespace-invadersstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-the-next-generationstar-wars-galaxiesstarfleetstoswgtabula-rasathe-matrixthe-matrix-onlinethe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenvwheres-waldo-in-tagsWorld-of-Warcraftworld-of-warcraft-cataclysmzombiesTue, 07 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Six years of EverQuest II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/the-tattered-notebook-six-years-of-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/the-tattered-notebook-six-years-of-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/the-tattered-notebook-six-years-of-everquest-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I looked down at the dog-eared journal and shivered. As excited as I was to finally be in possession of The Tattered Notebook, I recalled the fates of its previous owners. First, seemingly out of madness, Seccia made a sudden and unexpected career change to blog about kittens. Now, Scarve, a Ratonga, has disappeared in the night, leaving behind only a wedge of cheese, this tattered notebook, and a tiny stuffed Kerran doll. Rumors spread of his appearance among a shadowy cult of Gnomish tinkerers, but it's unclear whether he's with them by choice or by force.

Regardless, I took a deep breath and opened the cover. What a perfect time to begin adding my entries to the journal, right at the celebration of EverQuest II's six-year anniversary! To celebrate, the game is holding its second annual Festival of Heroes, from November 19-30. In honor of this milestone, my first entry into The Tattered Notebook is a retrospective of those past six years, with an eye towards the future.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Six years of EverQuest II

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Six years of EverQuest II originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packanniversaryappearance-slotbillybirthdaybloodline-chroniclesdesert-of-flamesechoes-of-faydwereqEQ2EQIIeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexchangeexchange-serversf2pfallen-dynastyfan-fairefan-faire-2010featuredfestival-of-heroesfree-to-playfreemiumhousingkingdom-of-skymarketplaceNorrathplayer-housingRetrospectiverise-of-kunarksentinels-fateSOEsoe-eq-2SONYSony-Online-Entertainmentsplitpaw-sagathe-shadow-odysseythe-tattered-notebookMon, 08 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nights of the Dead to scare the living %$!# out of EverQuest II players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/nights-of-the-dead-to-scare-the-living-out-of-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/nights-of-the-dead-to-scare-the-living-out-of-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/nights-of-the-dead-to-scare-the-living-out-of-everquest-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

OK, perhaps EverQuest II's Nights of the Dead isn't as soul-rendingly terrifying as a good horror movie, but that doesn't mean it won't be a blast. EQII brings back its popular Halloween event just in time for the holiday, as Norrath gets a pumpkin makeover and has a resurgance of spooky sights and sounds in the black of the night.

From today through November 8th, players can enjoy this in-game event by trick-or-treating in the major metropolises, taking on creepy quests and getting their hands on special items and crafting recipes. Just... be careful of the headless guardian, OK? It's hard to read Massively when you're missing your noggin.

SOE isn't just dusting off Nights of the Dead from last year and calling it a day -- the company has added a number of new elements to the holiday for players both new and old. New Halas is joining the festivities this year, and there's a new quest, "Nights of the Dead Devotee" that promises a yummy reward or two. SOE's also added new costume illusions, new house items, and new recipes for those brave enough to venture out in the night alone. Live it up, because you may never see another sunrise!

MassivelyNights of the Dead to scare the living %$!# out of EverQuest II players originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costume-illusionseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iihalloweenheadless-guardiannew-halasnights-of-the-deadnorrathsoeThu, 14 Oct 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Friday Livestream: EverQuest II [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/friday-livestream-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/friday-livestream-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/friday-livestream-everquest-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Thank God it's Friday! And, once again, it's time to celebrate Friday the only way we know how -- by playing a video game and chatting with you lovely readers!

This week's selection is EverQuest II, and no, I don't mean EverQuest II Extended. We're going back to the original servers for a session of non-free-to-play questing! We'll embark on a few quest-lines throughout the game, and hopefully we'll give you a sense of why the land of Norrath is still such a great place for adventuring.

So if you're up to joining us, click the continued reading button below or the picture above to jump right to our Livestream and watch Seraphina attempt not to make a fool of herself!

[Update: The livestream is over, but the recording lives on! Click the picture above or the continued reading link below to check out our tour of EverQuest II!]

Continue reading Friday Livestream: EverQuest II [Updated]

MassivelyFriday Livestream: EverQuest II [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>community-q-and-aeq-iieq2everquest-2everquest-iifeaturedfriday-livestreamlive-broadcastlivestreamnorrathtgifvideoFri, 01 Oct 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: GU57 reactions and a sad ratonga]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/the-tattered-notebook-gu57-reactions-and-a-sad-ratonga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/the-tattered-notebook-gu57-reactions-and-a-sad-ratonga/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/23/the-tattered-notebook-gu57-reactions-and-a-sad-ratonga/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Hoo boy. Well, GU57 is upon us, and if you haven't heard the cries of SOE devs as they're burned at the stake on the official forums, you're not paying attention. After a brief day's delay, the patch hit last Wednesday and proceeded to generate what passes for an uproar in the veteran EverQuest II community.

What's the big deal? It looks to be a UI update, a few new quests, and the usual tweaks, fixes, and improvements, right? Well yes and no, depending on whom you talk to. Many people on the boards are convinced the sky is falling; most people in-game are convinced the former are taking things a little too seriously and everything is just hunky-dory; and a few (such as your humble author) think the reality is somewhere in the middle.

Turn the page for more.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: GU57 reactions and a sad ratonga

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: GU57 reactions and a sad ratonga originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EQ2eq2xEQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedfree-to-playfree-to-trygu57norrathopinionsad-ratonga-is-sadsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentspell-effectsspell-nerfthe-tattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebook-jef-reahardMon, 23 Aug 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Worth your time?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/the-tattered-notebook-worth-your-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/the-tattered-notebook-worth-your-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/the-tattered-notebook-worth-your-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


"EverQuest II, that's the crappy Sony game with five-year old graphics and a bunch of RMT isn't it," said a friend of mine as we ran around the chilly slopes of Dun Morogh in Azeroth a few weeks back. Even though he phrased it in the form of a question, his delivery implied a mind already made up. Such is EQII's reputation among a decent chunk of the MMORPG-playing population it seems.

Since taking over the Tattered Notebook, I've been asked more than a few times what it is about EverQuest II that makes it worth playing, aside from the Massively paycheck of course. From friends and family, to commenters, to colleagues, it seems many people are curious about SOE's long-running fantasy flagship, but relatively few take the time to learn more about it in order to make an informed go/no-go decision.

Regrettably, I'm a somewhat slow leveler, due to the fact that I've got a lot of demands on my time and I enjoy running around willy-nilly exploring the nooks and crannies of Norrath. So, I won't be level 90 with 250 AAs, raiding, or able to tell you about endgame any time soon. That said, is it worth playing through the early 30s?

Indeed it is. Turn the page for some reasons why.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Worth your time?

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Worth your time? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronomagicEQ2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iifeaturedgroup-playhousingimpressionsnorrathsoesolo-playSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-tattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebook-jef-reahardworth-playingMon, 12 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Georgeson: EQII won't be going free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/27/georgeson-eqii-wont-be-going-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/27/georgeson-eqii-wont-be-going-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/27/georgeson-eqii-wont-be-going-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With all the chatter regarding Turbine's recent decision to convert Lord of the Rings Online to a free-to-play business model, many gamers have no doubt wondered whether their favorite subscription-based MMORPGs may be following suit.

Sony Online Entertainment's Dave Georgeson, senior producer on Everquest II, is here to tell you about one game that won't be making the switch. Georgeson, who goes by the handle of SmokeJumper on the official EQII boards, had this to say in a post about possible changes to the long-running fantasy title's traditional subscription plan.

"We will not be changing your subscription model," Georgeson writes. "We've heard you folks loud and clear that you do not want items with stats introduced, you don't want players buying their way to power, etc. Your world will stay the way it has been and we will continue to support it with new content, items, etc."

MassivelyGeorgeson: EQII won't be going free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsdave-georgesoneq2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfree-to-playlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotronorrathsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsubscription-basedturbineSun, 27 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EQII's Dave Georgeson talks battlegrounds, starter cities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/eqiis-dave-georgeson-talks-battlegrounds-starter-cities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/eqiis-dave-georgeson-talks-battlegrounds-starter-cities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/eqiis-dave-georgeson-talks-battlegrounds-starter-cities/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Now that this year's E3 is safely in the rear-view mirror, more MMO-centric news from the show is slowly filtering out of outlets around the web as writers are able to collect their interview notes and put fingers to keyboards. One such piece features EverQuest II's Dave Georgeson, the new producer on the long-running fantasy MMORPG, who sat down with Ten Ton Hammer to chat about changes coming soon to the world of Norrath.

Georgeson indicates that the updates will be revealed at this year's SOE Fan Faire. In the meantime, he mentions tweaks to the beloved cities of Freeport and Qeynos, recently removed as starter city options to the chagrin of many veteran players. "I think the business as usual model needs to change. It would be so much better if we can put back some of the richness into the game so we don't have the empty world syndrome. We're going to be offering some new things here in the future that are really going to shake things up a bit," Georgeson says.

He also touches on the problems inherent in the new Battlegrounds system, as well as hints at plans to address it eventually. "I think that people who are just casually going in are getting worked by people who have a lot of PvP gear and because of that we are seeing that people aren't going in without a full board commitment. Because not a lot of new people are going in we basically have the same set of people playing over and over again. Battlegrounds is a really good feature and we will continue to support it, we like it a lot; it's just under performing for the amount of effort we put into it," he says.

MassivelyEQII's Dave Georgeson talks battlegrounds, starter cities originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundsdave-georgesone3-2010EverQuest-2everquest-iiEverquest2freeportinterviewnorrathqeynosWed, 23 Jun 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Farewell, but certainly not goodbye]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/the-tattered-notebook-farewell-but-certainly-not-goodbye/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/the-tattered-notebook-farewell-but-certainly-not-goodbye/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/the-tattered-notebook-farewell-but-certainly-not-goodbye/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Heyo there readers. Seraphina here this week, stepping in for Seccia to announce some unfortunate news. While our Tier'dal reporter is dedicated to her mission to spread disease and death across the face of Norrath, she unfortunately has a few... character flaws.

In short, Seccia has decided to pursue new opportunities blogging about kittens. She's left Massively.com very unexpectedly, leaving only a short note and her favorite purple stapler. Unfortunately, she also forgot to write a farewell column in her rapid exit towards balls of yarn and inevitable allergy problems. So that leaves me sitting here, filling in for her, and delivering my final thoughts on my return to EverQuest II.

I just wish her desk chair wasn't so... short.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Farewell, but certainly not goodbye

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Farewell, but certainly not goodbye originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq-2eq-iiever-quest-2ever-quest-iieverquest-2everquest-iifinal-opinionfinal-thoughtsnorrathsoesoe-eq-2soe-eq-iisony-eq-2sony-eq-iisony-online-entertainmentthe-tattered-notebookWed, 23 Jun 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Brenlo talks EverQuest II's future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/brenlo-talks-everquest-iis-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/brenlo-talks-everquest-iis-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/brenlo-talks-everquest-iis-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Alan 'Brenlo' Crosby, Sony Online Entertainment's Senior Producer for EverQuest II, has dropped an epic forum post on the official boards detailing the future of the long-running MMORPG. For starters, he talks about the game's technical issues, specifically the recent server performance concerns. "Some servers are struggling a bit with the new load created by returning players, Battlegrounds, more items in the database, etc and are not reacting well. This is our engineering team's number one priority<," he said.

He also touches on the much anticipated New Halas zone, indicating that it will finally see the light of day in the next patch and will be well worth the wait in terms of extended content, housing, and art design. Tweaks to the traveling system and itemization will also be made, and, though no specifics were given, feedback was solicited on both accounts. Battleground updates and tweaking are also in the pipeline, as is a new Storyteller UI system that promises to tie together Norrath's many quests in service of a larger, more meaningful story.

Finally, Brenlo hinted at alternate rule set servers, mentioning PvP, permadeath, and progression as possibilities. He also dropped a few hints at the upcoming development cycle for this fiscal year. <"You should see at least one raid each update, of which there are four major updates planned for the next fiscal year. Details of those to follow but I can say they will be a mix of reworked content e.g. Lavastorm revamp, and all new content. Through the next year, we plan to bolster our events as well, eventually having one event each calendar month, providing more entertainment for you,"he said.

MassivelyBrenlo talks EverQuest II's future originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-rule-seteq2everquest-2everquest-iigame-updatenew-halasnorrathprogressionsoesony-online-entertainmentstoryteller-systemTue, 30 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II: Brewday is back]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/everquest-ii-brewday-is-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/everquest-ii-brewday-is-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/everquest-ii-brewday-is-back/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Those who have been hanging around Norrath for a while know what this time of year brings: Brewday is returning to EverQuest II. While the holiday originated with the Dwarves, they don't mind sharing the fun, so get ready to celebrate beginning March 11th with events both old and new.

You'll see some familiar features such as Snoogle's Presentation, Ale Goggles, and Beers for Brell, but they offer brand new rewards, so make sure you check them out. If you're a fan of crafting, you'll be happy to hear that Brewday will bring new craftables and supplies in addition to all the other treats.

So what are you waiting for, an invitation? (It's okay if you are, because you'll be receiving one in your in-game mail.) The event runs from March 11th until the 22nd, so check out the event page for the full story, and enjoy yourself!

MassivelyEverQuest II: Brewday is back originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brewdayeqeq2eq2-brewdayEQIIeverquest-2everquest-iinorrathSOEsony-online-entertainmentTue, 09 Mar 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer the Keys of Fate, win a copy of Sentinel's Fate!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/conquer-the-keys-of-fate-win-a-copy-of-sentinels-fate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/conquer-the-keys-of-fate-win-a-copy-of-sentinels-fate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/conquer-the-keys-of-fate-win-a-copy-of-sentinels-fate/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"Seccia quickly looked over the treasured keys one last time. Her fingers lightly traced the ornate engravings on the two platinum and ten golden keys as a smile pulled itself across her lips. She took a deep breath before slowly wrapping them up in a large piece of canvas, hiding the package at the bottom of her backpack.

"In a few short minutes she had finished packing her camping supplies and had donned her armor. Without a second look back across her apartment she quickly moved towards the front door, praying that the right adventurers would find her before it's too late."

This Monday at 8:30 PM EST, join Massively as we set out on a bold quest across not only the face of Norrath, but the internet itself! Our intrepid Dark Elven reporter, Seccia Ravenloft, is holding the keys for brand new copies of EverQuest II's Sentinel's Fate collector's edition and retail edition! To claim them, however, one must track her down, wherever she is hiding, and politely request a key.

Tracking her down, however, will lead you through multiple puzzles and riddles in a race against the rest of Norrath! You will need an active EverQuest II subscription to participate in this contest, readers, so be sure to reactivate if you're interested in winning yourself a brand new expansion pack. Full instructions will be posted here and on the EverQuest II Community News forum come Monday, so keep your eye out!

Can you conquer the Keys of Fate?

MassivelyConquer the Keys of Fate, win a copy of Sentinel's Fate! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editioncontesteq-iieq2everquest-2everquest-iiexpansionkeys-of-fatenorrathpuzzleretail-keysscavenger-huntsentinels-fatesoesony-online-entertainmentFri, 12 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II reveals The Sundered Frontier]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/22/everquest-ii-reveals-the-sundered-frontier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/22/everquest-ii-reveals-the-sundered-frontier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/22/everquest-ii-reveals-the-sundered-frontier/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Who likes sexy screenshots? We all do! It's lucky for us that the The Sundered Frontier, one of the two new zones in EverQuest II: Sentinel's Fate is so darn beautiful. Who doesn't like floating islands, awesome armors, and pandas? How can you turn down pandas?! Easy answer: You can't turn down pandas. You just can't.

Sony Online Entertainment has gifted us with an armload of new pictures of the zone, so go on down below and check out our gallery of high resolution screenshots to see what Norrath has to offer in this upcoming expansion. We think you'll like what you see.

Gallery: EverQuest II: The Sundered Frontier

MassivelyEverQuest II reveals The Sundered Frontier originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2everquest-2everquest-iiexpansionnorrathscreenshotssentinels-fatesoesony-online-entertainmentTue, 22 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST