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[Previously on MV TV: The week of May 12th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
What a week of livestreaming! We've got quite the variety and tons of hours of video to watch. What's that? You had to work and missed half of the cool streams we showed? Don't worry! I gather all of the best streams from the week's collection and list them for you right here. Still, you need to bookmark our livestream page so you can see which videos are going to be shown during the week, but if you miss any, you can check out the recap here. That's why we do it.

This week we had a lot to offer. First we had good old Mike jumping into EVE Online for some space action, then into TERA for some scantily clad combat! He then explores some of the great browser-based game Drakensang Online. MJ brought a ton of goodies to the streaming table, goodies like a run-through in EverQuest II, some base-jumping in City of Heroes, a bit of hardcore survival in Xsyon, and a flight around the beautiful lands of Aion. I rounded out the end by streaming some BatMUD, a cool MUD that has been around since many of you have been in diapers!

Click past the cut and grab some popcorn. Keep the butter light but add some salt. Thanks.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of May 12th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of May 12th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionBatMUDBigpointblueholebluehole-studiosbrowser-basedccpccp-gamescity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdrakensangdrakensang-onlineen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iiEQ2eqiieveeve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreedominternet-spaceshipslivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmudmv-tvmvtvnc-softncsoftnotoriousnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-studiospost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpround-uproundupsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiSOEsonySony-Online-Entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesteratruly-freetwitchtwitch-tvvideovideosxsyonSun, 20 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon welcomes back former players, gears up for totem decay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/xsyon-welcomes-back-former-players-gears-up-for-totem-decay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/xsyon-welcomes-back-former-players-gears-up-for-totem-decay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/xsyon-welcomes-back-former-players-gears-up-for-totem-decay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Xsyon - Totem decay
Notorious Games is working overtime to highlight all of the changes it's made to its Xsyon sandbox. The company ran a 10-day welcome back promotion late last month, and it's doing so again starting this Friday. Previous subscribers will receive a free 10-day pass, while current players will get two additional weeks of game time on the house.

The dates for the 10-day passes vary, according to Notorious' latest press release. If you're a previous subscriber, check your email over the next few days to see where your game time falls within the larger five-week promotional window.

Also noteworthy for dedicated Xsyon players is the fact that the game's totem system will enter something called a decay phase once these trial periods are over. Totems represent land claimed by a particular guild, and those without any actively subscribed players will become abandoned in short order. Abandoned totems will then decay and free up the land for other players, while also leaving any buildings, resources, and containers free for the taking.

[Source: Notorious Games press release]

MassivelyXsyon welcomes back former players, gears up for totem decay originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasynotoriousnotorious-gamespost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpsandboxsci-fantasysci-fitotem-decayxsyonxsyon-totem-decayTue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Xsyon patch adds player-made quests, tweaks skill gains]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/latest-xsyon-patch-adds-player-made-quests-tweaks-skill-gains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/latest-xsyon-patch-adds-player-made-quests-tweaks-skill-gains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/latest-xsyon-patch-adds-player-made-quests-tweaks-skill-gains/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Xsyon - player-made cart
What's new in the world of Xsyon? Quite a lot, according to Notorious Games' latest patch notes. The new update has overhauled many of the sandbox survival MMO's systems, including extensive skill tweaks, increased stat gains based on actions, and stat readjustment functionality.

Players may also create quests for one another. Doing so rewards both the quester and the creator with XP upon successful quest completion. Overall experience gain has been adjusted to reward players per action and via quests, which should lead to a marked reduction in the grinding necessary to gain skills.

These are just a few of the improvements, too. Have a look at the patch notes for the full list.

MassivelyLatest Xsyon patch adds player-made quests, tweaks skill gains originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasynotoriousnotorious-gamesplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentplayer-made-questsplayer-questspost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiuser-generated-contentxsyonxsyon-patchxsyon-skillsThu, 03 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon hosts 10-day welcome back promotion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/xsyon-hosts-10-day-welcome-back-promotion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/xsyon-hosts-10-day-welcome-back-promotion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/xsyon-hosts-10-day-welcome-back-promotion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Xsyon
Did you play the sandbox title Xsyon in the past year but you've let your subscription slip? Notorious Games wants your patronage back, and it's willing to meet you halfway with 10 days of free game time to check out all of the new additions and developments in the game.

Any former subscriber to Xsyon will receive a 10-day pass to the game sometime after May 18th. This time will be used over the course of five weeks. Eligible players will be notified by email when their 10-day slot is scheduled.

Xsyon recently celebrated its first anniversary and since launch has seen explosive growth of both player-created structures and the wildlife population. Other improvements that Notorious Games is proud of include a better crafting system, an overhauled UI, and tweaked visuals.

MassivelyXsyon hosts 10-day welcome back promotion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryfantasyfree-game-timenotoriousnotorious-gamespost-apocpost-apocalypticpromotionpvpsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiwelcome-backwelcome-back-promotionxsyonTue, 24 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Xsyon screenshot
One year and counting. Crack open the waterskin and raise a toast to Xsyon: Today the post-apocalyptic sandbox by Notorious Games celebrates its first full year of launch. Well, the first year of the official launch of Prelude, a limited first release of the virtual world. Come to think of it, even that date seems a bit nebulous as the pre-order players in the first phase of Year Zero (basically beta) actually had their most significant change on March 11th, 2011 when the second phase launched and totems were introduced.

Semantics aside, Xsyon has come a long way from that official first day. Unlike many games where gameplay is neatly laid out, this indie title gives players only the canvas and a few tools before setting them loose to fashion their world. As the year continued, additional tools were provided and the world became more vibrant and dynamic. Initially barren without any critters (other than your surviving neighbors) to hunt, the world is now populated with large creatures that roam the land, threatening the lives of travelers and hunters alike. Even the lay of the land itself is different as players manipulate and alter the terrain, build settlements, and plant trees. Communities are forming; groups are supporting and even entertaining each other. Civilization is slowly rebuilding.

And that's only the beginning.

Continue reading Xsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude

MassivelyXsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybuildingcraftingdynamic-AIfeaturedharvestingmutantsnotoriousnotorious-gamesplantingplanting-treespost-apocpost-apocalypticpvprebuildingrebuilding-civilizationsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiterraformingxsyonThu, 15 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Are you a bad enough dude to survive Xsyon's Mutant Maze?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/are-you-a-bad-enough-dude-to-survive-xsyons-mutant-maze/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/are-you-a-bad-enough-dude-to-survive-xsyons-mutant-maze/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/are-you-a-bad-enough-dude-to-survive-xsyons-mutant-maze/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Also the president might have been kidnapped by a giant bear.
Do you feel lucky when you log into Xsyon? Do you feel as if you can go anywhere and do anything in complete safety? Then perhaps you'd like to test your skills this weekend when the game unleashes the Mutant Maze event starting at 3 p.m. EST (12 p.m. PST). Open to everyone who wishes to take part, the event will teleport all volunteers to the designated grounds at the start and teleport them back at the conclusion... but there's no certainty you'll emerge victorious.

So what is the Mutant Maze? It's a labyrinth filled with all sorts of nasty mutants, hence the name. Players will be able to keep the spoils of their kills, and there's a special prize for completing a round of the maze by both surviving and finding the exit successfully. There are three total rounds, enough to test the game's most seasoned veterans -- but for the glory of a prize, won't you spend a weekend ambling through a maze filled with enormous bears?

[Source: Notorious Games press release]

MassivelyAre you a bad enough dude to survive Xsyon's Mutant Maze? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>challengeseventin-game-eventlabyrinthlimited-time-eventsmazemutant-mazenotorious-gamesspecial-eventsupcoming-eventsxsyonWed, 22 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Xsyon picks up speed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/some-assembly-required-xsyon-picks-up-speed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/some-assembly-required-xsyon-picks-up-speed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/some-assembly-required-xsyon-picks-up-speed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
Last year, I had the opportunity to meander around Xsyon for Choose My Adventure. Then, the game was still at the end of its beta phase. Now, with some time under its belt since release, the game continues to grow. And January has seen quite the growth spurt.

I won't complain if the momentum that Xsyon has shown in the last month keeps up. Announcing multiple events and an architecture contest? Not to mention introducing new goodies? You go, game! Though it's small and indie, I am totally rooting for this title to succeed. Why? The main reason is that the game is reliant on player generated content: Instead of developers designing every aspect of the game, they built the world as a foundation and gave players the tools to go from there. This game is one of the few out there that offers many avenues for players to generate their own content and have a visible and lasting impact on the world around them.

And just how is post-apocalyptic Earth shaping up with the players at the helm? This week, Some Assembly Required explores the once-ravaged land to highlight some of that generated content, from events (both player-run and developer sponsored) to small- and large-scale construction.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Xsyon picks up speed

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Xsyon picks up speed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecturechoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-xsyonCMAcontestcontestseventsevents-in-gamefeaturedin-game-eventsnew-featuresnotorious-gamesplantingplanting-treesplayer-generated-contentplayer-run-eventssandboxsandbox-experienceSARsome-assembly-requiredterraformingXsyonxsyon-earth-2012Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon hosting month-long architecture contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/xsyon-hosting-month-long-architecture-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/xsyon-hosting-month-long-architecture-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/xsyon-hosting-month-long-architecture-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Xsyon - This took insane amounts of time.
If you're a member of a tribe in Xsyon, you might want to check out Notorious Games' latest architecture contest. The event runs from February 1st to March 1st, and it's open to both small tribes (between one and five members) and larger groups (six or more members).

Since it's an architecture contest, you'll obviously need to construct (or re-construct) your tribe settlement. Notorious will be judging your creations for originality, uniqueness, design, layout, and beautification.

The dev team is remaining coy when it comes to contest incentives, but the latest Xsyon press release does say that "there will be a large prize for the winning tribe in each group."

MassivelyXsyon hosting month-long architecture contest originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecture-contestcontestfantasyin-game-eventnotorious-gamesplayer-citiesplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentpost-apocalypticsandboxtribe-citiesuser-generated-contentxsyonMon, 30 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon announces newest Guide-run event: The Grand Cart Race]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/xsyon-announces-newest-guide-run-event-the-grand-cart-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/xsyon-announces-newest-guide-run-event-the-grand-cart-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/xsyon-announces-newest-guide-run-event-the-grand-cart-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Xsyon
Earlier this month, we reported on a player-run event being held in Notorious Games' sandbox MMO Xsyon, and bear-fighting was involved. Today, the team has put out an announcement for a new Guide-run event, though unfortunately bear-fighting is not involved. What is involved, though, is cart racing.

The event, known formally as The Grand Cart Race, will begin at 3:00 p.m. EST on this coming Sunday, January 29th. Players are encouraged to bring their own carts to race, but if you haven't built or traded for a cart yet, don't worry; the guides will be handing out loaners for the duration of the event. The team doesn't reveal what exactly the race will entail, but mentions that "there will be different stages of the course aimed at taking advantage of each of the features of the carts." For the full details, check out the event's official thread on the game's forums, then prepare to do it up NASCAR: post-apocalypse-style.

MassivelyXsyon announces newest Guide-run event: The Grand Cart Race originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartcart-racecart-racingcartseventeventsgm-run-eventguide-run-eventin-game-eventin-game-eventsnotorious-gamessandboxsandboxesthe-grand-cart-racexsyonThu, 26 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon architecture gallery shows off unique player-made structures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/xsyon-architecture-gallery-shows-off-unique-player-made-structur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/xsyon-architecture-gallery-shows-off-unique-player-made-structur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/xsyon-architecture-gallery-shows-off-unique-player-made-structur/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Xsyon - player town
Xsyon's PR machine is shifting into high gear of late, and the post-apocalyptic sandbox title from Notorious Games has released another batch of screenshots. This isn't your typical 10-screenshot blast, either, but rather an entirely new gallery section on the official website devoted exclusively to user creations.

Notorious is intent on showing off what it calls player architecture, as Xsyon is one of the few games on the current MMO market that actually allows for unique creations in terms of buildings, structures, and even town layouts. You can see a few of the choice shots in our Xsyon gallery below, but you'll need to head to the game's official website to see them all.

[Source: Notorious Games press release]

Gallery: Xsyon

MassivelyXsyon architecture gallery shows off unique player-made structures originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingfantasygallerynon-combat-gameplaynotorious-gamesplayer-architectureplayer-citiesplayer-generated-contentplayer-housingpost-apocalypticsandboxscreenshotscreenshotssurvivaltradeskillsxsyonTue, 17 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon highlights upcoming player-run event, includes bear-fighting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/xsyon-highlights-upcoming-player-run-event-includes-bear-fighti/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/xsyon-highlights-upcoming-player-run-event-includes-bear-fighti/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/xsyon-highlights-upcoming-player-run-event-includes-bear-fighti/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ribcages will be available via microtransaction in the next DLC update [Citation Needed]
It's been a while since we've heard anything from Notorious-Games' sandbox MMO Xsyon, but the silence has been broken with a new press release from the studio announcing a large player-run event. The Praetorian Guard tribe is hosting a Spring Clean-Up event, throughout the course of which attendees will be treated to activities ranging from treasure hunts, obstacle courses, and -- our personal favorite, if only for the wtf factor alone -- The Bear Arena of Doom. The event will be taking place at 3:00 p.m. EST on January 14th, which is this coming Saturday, so gather up your best ursine-proof equipment and go wrestle some bears for fun and profit.

[Source: Notorious-Games press release]

MassivelyXsyon highlights upcoming player-run event, includes bear-fighting originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bear-arena-of-doooooomeventsin-game-eventsjesus-christ-its-a-bear-get-in-the-carnotorious-gamesplayer-run-eventplayer-run-eventstribe-run-eventtribe-run-eventsxsyonWed, 11 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
If you are perusing this column, chances are you are a fan of virtual worlds and the sandbox genre. Join the club! (Dues will be due on the third Tuesday.) The aspect that compels many aficionados to delve into a game is the ability to make an impact on the world in some small respect instead of making them into Hive Member 1593072 running a static, predetermined gauntlet. How that impact is accomplished, however, varies; there are multiple features that can facilitate it, and which ones are considered most important depends on the player.

With the loss of one of the best sandbox games just last month, some players may be feeling a void. Others still are looking/hoping for the "ultimate" sandbox that contains nearly every virtual world feature. Certainly, there are some upcoming games that make some drool-worthy promises, but what about playing something now? There are actually games out on the market that have at least one aspect of the genre, if not more.

To start off the new year, Some Assembly Required looks at some of the top features of virtual worlds and lists games that incorporate these features. While this list isn't exhaustive (considering the sheer number of games when you include all of the smaller free-to-play titles, I'd run out of column space!), it is a comprehensive enough overview to point you toward some games worth playing that perhaps you hadn't considered before.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup

MassivelySome Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaionaion-gameAnarchy-Onlineaocccpccp-eveccp-gameschampions-onlinecharacter-creationcharacter-customizationcity-of-heroescocohcraft-of-godscraft-of-the-godscraftingcrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalleden-eternaleq-1eq-2eq-ieq-iieveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineever-quest-1ever-quest-2ever-quest-iever-quest-iieverquest-1everquest-2everquest-ieverquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiflyffFuncomglitchguild-housinghousingking-of-kings-3liden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroluna-onlinemabinogimission-architectnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-cohparagon-studioesplanetsideplayer-generated-contentplayer-generated-missionsplayer-housingplayer-run-economyrunescapeRyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoe-eq-1soe-eq-2soe-eq-isoe-eq-iisome-assembly-requiredsony-eq-1sony-eq-2sony-eq-isony-eq-iisquare-enixst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineturbineTurbine-EntertainmentUltima-OnlineUOvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldwar-of-the-immortalswizard-101xbox-360XsyonFri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon tweaks combat, releases new screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/xsyon-tweaks-combat-releases-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/xsyon-tweaks-combat-releases-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/xsyon-tweaks-combat-releases-new-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Xsyon - that's a lot of logs
It's been quite a while since we checked in with Xsyon, and it's been nearly nine whole months since the game officially launched with its Prelude limited release event.

In that time, Notorious Games has been hard at work, and the company has just published a partial listing of all the improvements made to the post-apocalyptic sandbox (as well as a few new screenshots). Tweaks include new twitch-based combat, an enhanced creature system, an expanded construction system that allows for buildings and towns, and various UI improvements.

Xyson: Prelude is now available for a $39.99 client fee (which includes one month of free game time) and a $14.99 monthly sub. Have a look at some of the player-created content in our gallery below.

[Source: Notorious Games press release]

Gallery: Xsyon

MassivelyXsyon tweaks combat, releases new screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasygallerynotorious-gamesplayer-contentplayer-created-contentplayer-generated-contentpost-apocalypticsandboxscreenshotsvirtual-worldxsyonThu, 22 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon devs talk farming, crafting and PvE vs. PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/xsyon-devs-talk-farming-crafting-and-pve-vs-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/xsyon-devs-talk-farming-crafting-and-pve-vs-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/xsyon-devs-talk-farming-crafting-and-pve-vs-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If sandbox MMORPGs are more ambitious than their themepark counterparts, it follows that the former are also more susceptible to bugs, performance problems, and general player discontent. Xsyon is no exception, and the post-apocalyptic world-building title from Notorious Games has traveled a rough yet familiar road since its March release.

According to a couple of recent posts on the Xsyon boards, better times are in the offing. Notorious is in fact expanding its dev roster, and new game designer/programmer Danathur throws the community a few bones in his introduction post. Aside from providing a bit of detail on his new duties, he also addresses the ongoing war of words between PvE and PvP supporters vying for the future of Xsyon. "We do not want to create a massively multiplayer first person shooter. On the other hand, conflicts and managing them (not only by violence) [are] the real challenge and where the most fun will come from in the long term," he explains.

Danathur goes on to say that both crafting and combat will become more expensive in short order due to the enabling of item stats and decay. His sentiments echo those of lead designer Jordi Grau-Davis, who posted earlier this week to announce the new dev hires and to give the community a feel for Xsyon's development roadmap. "We are going to evolve Xsyon to include farming, contested expansion totems and revamped combat. The goal is to provide more daily activities to tend to and something to fight over," he wrote.

MassivelyXsyon devs talk farming, crafting and PvE vs. PvP originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingdanathurdevelopersfarmingjordi-grau-davisnew-devsnotoriousnotorious-gamespost-apocalypticpvepvpsandboxsci-fisurvivalxsyonWed, 27 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: The final countdown]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/choose-my-adventure-the-final-countdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/choose-my-adventure-the-final-countdown/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/choose-my-adventure-the-final-countdown/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Your voices were heard! At least, I do hope those are your voices I've been hearing in my head... they are telling me to do things. And I listened. I am instructed to listen to the voices. The voices can't hurt me, right? Well, maybe not the voices themselves, but since they chimed in on experimenting with combat, I know I am about to get hurt some!

This week concludes our foray into Xsyon for Choose My Adventure, but I dare say it does not end my time there. Although the game does not fit the standard mold of MMO fare today, it has been quite enjoyable and a great change of pace. I have kept myself entertained with my adventures in-game and I still look forward to logging in each time (minus the apprehension as the combat loomed closer).

Take a (final) hike past the cut for the results of our look at combat, some final impressions on the game, and a sneak peek at your next CMA guinea pig.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: The final countdown

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: The final countdown originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecturechoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-xsyoncmafeaturedffa-pvpgalleryimpressionimpressionsnotoriousnotorious-gamesplayer-created-contentpost-apocalypticpreludepvppvp-tournamentSandboxsandbox-experiencesandbox-gamingsandbox-mmoTahoetahoe-basinterraformingtribetribesxsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeWed, 06 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Making the world (a better place?)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/cma-making-the-world-a-better-place/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/cma-making-the-world-a-better-place/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/cma-making-the-world-a-better-place/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Here we are, drawing closer to the end of our Choose My Adventure journey, and I feel like I have just barely gotten started in Xsyon! There is so much left to do; I haven't even scratched the surface of my goals yet. Since construction is a slow process and gathering resources is taking longer and longer each day (you should see the workout I get hauling logs!), my personal fortress is still just a few completed walls and one pillar. I also haven't managed to circumvent the lake, find any chalk, or convince anyone to let me be President/Supreme Ruler of the Lake.

All right, maybe I haven't really tried hard at that last goal, but this week has seen your CMA correspondent meeting and greeting neighbors throughout the region, gathering resources, politely declining tribe invites (I will remain true to the vote throughout our adventures), and attempting to improve my skill in architecture. Also, I have enjoyed some relaxing fishing. As jaunts into the wilds for wood became longer each day, I kept watch over my shoulder with a touch of apprehension, always on the lookout for hostile folks and animals alike. There is always some question as to whether or not the elusive animals are in the game, but I have had a couple of run-ins with a mama and baby bear that ended poorly for me, so I try to never let my guard down.

What else did I learn this week about life on the shores of Lake Tahoe? Hike past the break to take a look at this week's adventures in Xsyon and then vote on how we approach combat for our final installment of Choose My Adventure.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Making the world (a better place?)

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Making the world (a better place?) originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-xsyoncombatcraftingcrafting-systemCraftingBuildingsexploreexploringfeaturedfishingnotorious-gamespollpollspost-apocalypticpvpSandboxsandbox-experiencesandboxingskillskill-masteryskillssurvival-tipstravelxsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeWed, 30 Mar 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: I've been digging on the homestead...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/choose-my-adventure-ive-been-digging-on-the-homestead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/choose-my-adventure-ive-been-digging-on-the-homestead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/choose-my-adventure-ive-been-digging-on-the-homestead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

All the live long day! Sing it with me now...

There really is something to be said for creating your own world. How many of you gamers out there have just ached for a MMO game in which you could truly affect the world instead of rolling along on a predestined path that is the same for everyone? As I delve deeper into Xsyon, that is what I find -- a world where my actions have real meaning. A world where we can change not only the political and economic landscapes but the literal landscape.

For Choose My Adventure this week, you, the Massively readers, decided that I shall work on my architecture skills and place a homestead (thereby allowing me to terraform). This really highlights some of the most unique features of the game. Although I dove into these new tasks with gusto, I now know why olden-day manual laborers sang songs during their work -- there is serious need of brain stimulation during long, monotonous labor. And building a new world from the ground up is seriously a long and slow process. If nothing else, Xsyon is not a game for the instant-gratification crowd. Which is all the better, in my opinion.

For a deeper look at terraforming, crafting, and general life in the Tahoe Basin, build a bridge over the cut and check out where our adventures led this week.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: I've been digging on the homestead...

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: I've been digging on the homestead... originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecturechoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-xsyoncmacraftingfeaturedffa-pvpgatheringnotoriousnotorious-gamespost-apocalypticpvepvpresourcesstorageTahoetahoe-basinterraformingTravelingtribetribesxsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeWed, 23 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: And so it began... again]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/choose-my-adventure-and-so-it-began-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/choose-my-adventure-and-so-it-began-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/choose-my-adventure-and-so-it-began-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Well, this week has certainly been interesting. And by interesting, I mean not really usual. Then again, if any of you know me very well, that really should not come as much of a surprise; normal and MJ usually do not coexist in the same stratosphere. I am also not one to shy away from the untrodden path, and I tend to take off on my own tangents. Who needs easy when you can have interesting? Perhaps this quality alone made me a decent match for tackling the world of Xsyon for this round of Choose My Adventure. That, and a measure of patience.

In my first true week of playing Xsyon, I really didn't get to "play" much of anything. Not in any sense of the word that most MMO gamers would be familiar with. That isn't to say that I didn't have any fun; on the contrary, I really enjoyed the time I did get in, and I look forward to really digging my toes into that rich Tahoe soil. Well, my shovel, really.

So what were the unusual circumstances surrounding my first adventures? Hike past the cut for a deeper look at the week and some helpful tips for anyone planning to jump into game come launch.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: And so it began... again

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: And so it began... again originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choicechoiceschoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-xsyoncmafeaturednotoriousnotorious-gamespollpollspvpSandboxsandbox-experiencesandbox-mmoserver-downtimeskillssurvival-tipsterraformingtotemstribesxsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeWed, 16 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: It's ALIVE!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/choose-my-adventure-its-alive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/choose-my-adventure-its-alive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/choose-my-adventure-its-alive/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Alrighty folks! I have consulted the crystal ball (polls) and now have the answer we have been so anxiously awaiting: It was Mr. Green, in the study, with the candlestick! Er, wait... sorry, let me just dust it off a bit. There we go. Actually it's armed MJ in Secret Cove with a shovel! Go terraforming.

Thanks to your votes, we have the backbone of the next Choose My Adventure guinea pig. For the most part, you Massively readers were pretty unified in your support; armed combat and terraforming led by a landslide, while Secret Cove and architecture also maintained significant leads. The only choice that was a close call was the second skill -- scavenging beat out hunting by a mere three votes.

Although we had plenty of choices for our polls, they didn't come close to covering the choices that must be made when creating a character before we ever set foot into the game world. Age, birthday, stat points, and multiple choices to create skin color are just some of the other choices the greet a new player in Xsyon.

Follow me past the cut to get an in-depth look at the creation process and to meet your guide/puppet/object of amusement in the land of Xsyon. Tahoe, ho!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: It's ALIVE!

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: It's ALIVE! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocalypseapocalypticcharacter-creationcharacter-customizationchoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-xsyoncmafeaturedLake-Tahoenotoriousnotorious-gamespost-apocalypsepost-apocalypticrunningskillsstatsswimmingterraformingxsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeWed, 09 Mar 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Destination - Apocalypse now]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/choose-my-adventure-destination-apocalypse-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/choose-my-adventure-destination-apocalypse-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/choose-my-adventure-destination-apocalypse-now/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

So my bags are packed (what exactly do you pack for an apocalypse? I vote toothbrush, regardless!) and I'm setting out for the Lake Tahoe region. Yup, our itinerary is set -- Xsyon has won the hearts of the readers for this next escapade in the Choose My Adventure series. I find this kind of exciting, as I grew up frequenting this area out here in the real world and look forward to seeing it represented in the game.

Now, I have a confession to make: I watched the vote carefully. Too carefully. OK, I was obsessed with it! I don't think I can even tell you how many times I clicked refresh in one day; it was quite addicting to watch the numbers creep up as the readers cast their votes. And since six weeks of my life was on the line, I had a vested interest in the outcome. At least, that's how I tried to rationalize my maniacal refreshing. Xsyon commanded the lead straight off, but Pirates of the Burning Sea had a good showing and maintained a solid second place throughout the contest. Four games kept running neck-and-neck: DC Universe Online, Earthrise, EVE Online, and LEGO Universe. I admit to rooting some for the underdogs as well -- each game has special and unique features I would enjoy delving into. Think about it: Can you imagine life as a LEGO? But in the end, no one could topple the promise of a vast wasteland filled with mutants and an empty canvas for players to fill in.

So now that we have the setting, all we need is the character. Unlike many games, Xsyon demands that you pick things such as your crafting skills at character creation, so please forgive the number of polls attached to this week's article.

Head on past the cut to learn a bit about Xsyon and vote to make me build the CMA creature of your bidding!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Destination - Apocalypse now

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Destination - Apocalypse now originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocalypseapocalypticcharacter-creationcharacter-customizationcharacterschoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-xsyoncmacraftingcrafting-skillsfeaturedjordi-grau-davismutantmutantsmutatemythicalmythical-creaturesnotorious-gamespollpollspvpSandboxsandbox-experiencesandbox-mmoskillsstarting-areastarting-locationterraformingtotemstribesweaponsXsyonxsyon-earth-2012xsyon-preludeWed, 02 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon release moved to March 15th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/xsyon-release-moved-to-march-15th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/xsyon-release-moved-to-march-15th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/xsyon-release-moved-to-march-15th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Building sandboxes is hard. So hard, in fact, that not many of them get built. Those that do eventually see the light of day, like the upcoming Xyson from Jordi Grau-Davis' Notorious Games, often go through laborious birthing pains, buggy betas, and delayed releases. In a post on the official Xsyon boards, the game devs have announced the decision to postpone the official release by two weeks (the new date is March 15th) due to "problems with our servers and bandwidth" brought to light by the recent headstart launch and the sudden influx of warm bodies.

The post details the forthcoming fix for the recent lag issues (a new download server) and also puts a positive face on things by bringing up the fact that the lag has caused a few hidden problems to surface. The Xsyon client and installer have also been updated, and pre-order players will have two weeks of free game time comped to their accounts.

MassivelyXsyon release moved to March 15th originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadelaydownload-serverjordi-grau-davislaglaunchnotorious-gamespost-apocalypticpre-orderreleasesandboxsci-fixsyonMon, 21 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Jordi Grau Davis answers our Xsyon questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/massively-exclusive-jordi-grau-davis-answers-our-xsyon-question/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/massively-exclusive-jordi-grau-davis-answers-our-xsyon-question/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/massively-exclusive-jordi-grau-davis-answers-our-xsyon-question/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With Xsyon's impending release date just around the corner, we thought it was high time we sat down and had a chat with the brains behind the indie post-apocalyptic sandbox. Notorious Games' Jordi Grau Davis was kind enough to answer a few of our questions relating to the game he's wanted to make "since I first sat at a computer," and he has a lot to say about Xsyon's unique features and how it differs from other PvP-enabled sandbox titles.

Join us after the cut for all the details.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Jordi Grau Davis answers our Xsyon questions

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Jordi Grau Davis answers our Xsyon questions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildingcombat-revampfeaturedhousinginterviewjordi-grau-davislocal-bankingmount-and-bladenotorious-gamespost-apocalypticpvepvpsandboxsci-fiterraformingxsyonxsyon-earth-2012Thu, 06 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon launching March 1st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/xsyon-launching-march-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/xsyon-launching-march-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/xsyon-launching-march-1st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Though it's been some time since we've heard anything new from Notorious Games regarding its Xsyon MMORPG, there is some light at the end of the lengthy beta tunnel. Lead designer Jordi Grau Davis has sent word that the post-apocalyptic sandbox game is nearing release. March 1st has been confirmed as launch day, and the company is now taking pre-orders for a limited initial release called Xsyon: Prelude.

The Prelude is set in an isolated basin somewhere in the American wilderness, where survivors of the apocalypse will carve out humanity's future in an open-ended sandbox that will evolve according to the actions of its community. Pre-order customers will receive immediate access to the game's final testing phases as well as two free months of game time and a limited edition in-game weapon.

MassivelyXsyon launching March 1st originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jordi-grau-davislaunchlaunch-datenotorious-gamesopen-worldpre-orderpreludesandboxxsyonxsyon-betaxsyon-preludeMon, 03 Jan 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon beta update adds architecture skills, revamps terrain]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/xsyon-beta-update-adds-architecture-skills-revamps-terrain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/xsyon-beta-update-adds-architecture-skills-revamps-terrain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/11/xsyon-beta-update-adds-architecture-skills-revamps-terrain/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Yep, Xsyon's still around, and the post-apocalyptic sandbox MMORPG from Notorious Games continues its beta testing phase with a full client and server update this week. The patch has also wiped all your beta characters as well as the world terrain, making way for smoother texture revisions that should be visible as you read this.

Other significant patch details include the architecture skill (which allows players to create walls and buildings), the masonry skill (designed to complement architecture), and various tweaks to combat and characters. Among these is a revision to the alignment system that flags both defenders and attackers. Finally, the new client boasts several bug fixes related to collision detection, memory leaks, and animation fixes.

Check out the full list of improvements on the official Xsyon forums.

MassivelyXsyon beta update adds architecture skills, revamps terrain originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecturebetabug-fixescollision-detectionfixesjordi-grau-davismasonrynew-clientnew-servernotorious-gamespatchterraintestingxsyonxsyon-betaxsyon-testingThu, 11 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon updates ongoing, free-form inventory system discussed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/xsyon-updates-ongoing-free-form-inventory-system-discussed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/xsyon-updates-ongoing-free-form-inventory-system-discussed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/xsyon-updates-ongoing-free-form-inventory-system-discussed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You might have forgotten about Xsyon, the promising post-apocalyptic sandbox under development at Jordi Grau Davis' Notorious Games studio. While it's been some time since we've checked in on the title, we're happy to report that updates continue to flow at a steady pace.

In a post on the game's official forums, the team tells us of a major move to new server hardware, expected to take place between September 15th and 17th. After the transition is complete, Xsyon's next update will go live. Included among its features are improved and expanded inventory management, player collision tweaks, character rendering and Speedtree optimizations, and several small bug squashes.

The inventory tweaks are of particular interest, as Davis hints at a unique system that may happen in the future. "We've changed the way inventories and containers are saved. This will allow us to change to a more freeform container system (without slots) in the future if we choose to do so. This required some major changes that we are still testing," he writes.

MassivelyXsyon updates ongoing, free-form inventory system discussed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasinventoryjordi-grau-davisnotorious-gamespatchsandboxserver-moveupdatexsyonxsyon-betaWed, 15 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon deploys extensive beta update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/xsyon-deploys-extensive-beta-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/xsyon-deploys-extensive-beta-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/xsyon-deploys-extensive-beta-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Notorious Games has updated Xsyon, its post-apocalyptic sandbox MMORPG. The pre-order beta client now boasts an extensive list of tweaks, fixes, and feature improvements. In addition to the changes, the developers have upgraded both the game and download servers.

"Both the download server and the game server are now running from our new machines at a better location. This took a while to set up, but so far it looks like the switch was worth the bit of trouble," declares the update post on the game's official forums. "We've overhauled the server code and there are more changes to come. Hopefully the lag that was being caused by terraforming will be eliminated now, but this needs to be tested further. We are still in the process of optimizing the server code, but this build is a major step and has been our main focus over the past few weeks."

The new patch also brings a number of changes to crafting, skills and actions, and interface tweaks. Check out all the details on the official site.

MassivelyXsyon deploys extensive beta update originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugsjordi-grau-davisnotorious-gamespatchpatch-notesserver-movetestingxsyonxsyon-betaxsyon-pre-ordersMon, 21 Jun 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon launch delayed until August, further delays possible]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/xsyon-launch-delayed-until-august-further-delays-possible/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/xsyon-launch-delayed-until-august-further-delays-possible/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/xsyon-launch-delayed-until-august-further-delays-possible/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The developers of Xsyon have have been working hard to make sure that they release a quality game when the time comes, but unexpected problems have led to the announcement of a launch delay. Notorious Games' Jordi Grau Davis has been maintaining regular communication with those looking forward to launch, explaining exactly what the team is working on and what this means for the community.

The latest post announced the most current round of updates, as well as the news of the delay: "The official release is now planned for August 15th. We will reassess our progress every month and if we need to push this date further into the future we will. We do not want to force an unfinished release. Instead we are going to continue working as hard as possible until we can fully stabilize the server and finish implementing the planned game features. We're going to stick to our plan, it's just going to take longer than we hoped."

He went on to detail what the team will be working on from here on out, and to ask that everyone bear with them as they make the needed changes and fixes. Take a look at the full forum post for all the newest information.

MassivelyXsyon launch delayed until August, further delays possible originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 May 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jordi-grau-davislaunchnotorious-gamesxsyonxsyon-launch-delayedxsyon-testingMon, 24 May 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon pre-orders open, players show off in-game videos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/xsyon-pre-orders-open-players-show-off-in-game-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/xsyon-pre-orders-open-players-show-off-in-game-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/xsyon-pre-orders-open-players-show-off-in-game-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Notorious Games' post-apocalyptic sandbox MMORPG Xsyon has officially opened its doors to pre-order customers, who have responded by filling a thread on the official forums with in-game video footage. Developers are allowing a trickle of players into the pre-order/beta phase in order to test systems and stability prior to the game's May 15 release target.

If you pre-ordered but aren't sure how to access the beta, sit back and relax, as Notorious Games will be emailing pre-order customers instructions for downloading and installing the beta client as the need for more testers arises. In the meantime, enjoy the player videos, which include everything from character creation, to harvesting timber from trees, to laying down roads.

Look for Massively's impressions on the Xsyon pre-order in the near future.

[Thanks Nick!]

MassivelyXsyon pre-orders open, players show off in-game videos originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jordi-grau-davislaunchnotorious-gamespost-apocalypticpre-ordervideosxsyonFri, 02 Apr 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon working towards release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/xsyon-working-towards-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/xsyon-working-towards-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/xsyon-working-towards-release/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The last time we heard from the development team in charge of upcoming indie sandbox post-apocalyptic MMO, Xsyon, they had planned to let players in prior to launch in small groups. The primary reason was to allow the developers enough time to test, then let another group in, and repeat. Staggering the pre-order invitations to ensure they had bugs fixed sounded like a wise move to us.

Now, in the most recent posting to that thread, the current plans are to let the remaining players in to get their hands on Xsyon starting this upcoming Wednesday. From there, they'll focus on fixing the last of the bugs and hopefully testing for two weeks. At that time, they intend to do the final wipe and then let players have their pre-order week.

Continue reading Xsyon working towards release

MassivelyXsyon working towards release originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocalypsebug-testingcharacter-wipelaunchnotorious-gamespost-apocalypticpre-releasesandboxxsyonMon, 29 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon lead developer talks release plans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/xsyon-lead-developer-talks-release-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/xsyon-lead-developer-talks-release-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/xsyon-lead-developer-talks-release-plans/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Notorious Games founder and Xsyon lead developer Jordi Grau Davis has responded to community questions with a lengthy forum post on the game's official boards. The unveiling of this forthcoming post-apocalyptic MMORPG caught many of us by surprise last month, given the extensive sandbox feature set and the rapidly approaching release date.

Davis writes that development and testing are preceding as planned, and that pre-order players will be let into the game in groups of 20-50 as the programming team finishes up various outstanding issues including Speed Tree implementation, terrain optimization, combat tweaks based on forum feedback, and a number of other items.

Davis also touches on the planned user load for Xsyon. "What are the numbers we are looking for? I'm guessing about 500 before April 15th [release day], building slowly to around 5000 active players by the end of summer," he writes.

[Thanks Chris!]

MassivelyXsyon lead developer talks release plans originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jordi-grau-davisnotorious-gamespost-apocalypticpre-ordersandboxxsyonMon, 15 Mar 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New post-apocalyptic MMO Xsyon to release April 15]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/new-post-apocalyptic-mmo-xsyon-to-release-april-15/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/new-post-apocalyptic-mmo-xsyon-to-release-april-15/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/new-post-apocalyptic-mmo-xsyon-to-release-april-15/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fallen Earth, Global Agenda, Earthrise. As players suffering from orc and elf burnout search for something different, the post-apocalyptic genre is quickly becoming popular.

One such title that's been flying well under the radar is Xsyon, an upcoming post-apocalyptic MMO from Notorious Games. The game is scheduled for an April 15 release, with plans to allow pre-order players to begin the game in mid-March. Xsyon's official site is very well done, offering backstory, screenshots, and extensive information about the game itself. The recently added forums rounded the site out nicely, opening the doors for discussion among players anxious for the game to arrive.

While the graphics aren't as perfected as bigger name games, the features are where this game really shines. Xsyon will be released in a series of installments, growing in every direction (landscapes, skills, crafts, etc.) as players learn and explore farther. So this means players will directly affect the world and the direction of the game by their actions and choices.

Xsyon is a game well worth looking into -- check out the official site for the full story.

MassivelyNew post-apocalyptic MMO Xsyon to release April 15 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>notorious-gamespost-apocalypticpre-ordersxsyonThu, 25 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST