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[Betawatch: May 19 - 25, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/betawatch-may-19-25-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/betawatch-may-19-25-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/betawatch-may-19-25-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The test is coming, it's plane to see.
This week in Betawatch, the biggest news is that the game everyone expected to be in beta isn't around. Guild Wars 2 is not running a beta weekend this weekend, meaning that anyone hoping to spend their long weekend in Tyria is going to have to go with the classic version. We also say farewell to Star Supremacy in wake of its launch.

However, for those who love testing unreleased games, it's not all bad news. World of Warplanes has announced its closed beta kicking off at the end of the month, and MechWarrior Online is heading into its closed beta this week. While you won't have a chance to get your paws on The Secret World just yet, we do have a nice new shiny set of impressions from the beta to help tide you over.

Jump on past the break to see the full list of what's still in testing!

Continue reading Betawatch: May 19 - 25, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: May 19 - 25, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 25 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: May 12 - 18, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/betawatch-may-12-18-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/betawatch-may-12-18-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/betawatch-may-12-18-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - D3
This week on Betawatch, we say farewell to Diablo III, which (at least nominally) moved on from beta to official launch on Tuesday. Bizarrely enchanting new MOBA SmashMuck Champions takes its place, joining our list with a closed beta planned within the month. We've also added MechWarrior Online to the alpha list, as reader mblakeman2001 rightly pointed out the game is in a friends-and-family beta!

CCP has begun sending out DUST 514 beta keys and opened registration, and we've also learned that Blade & Soul will leave beta and launch in July... but only in Korea. Sadface.

Finally, The Secret World's second beta weekend kicked off earlier today, but if you're not in it, you can content yourself with our hands-on with the game's combat and mission system.

Enjoy the entirety of our Betawatch roundup post-cut!

Continue reading Betawatch: May 12 - 18, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: May 12 - 18, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 18 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online dev Q&A covers beta, grouping, and combat damage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/mechwarrior-online-dev-qanda-covers-beta-grouping-and-combat-dam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/mechwarrior-online-dev-qanda-covers-beta-grouping-and-combat-dam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/mechwarrior-online-dev-qanda-covers-beta-grouping-and-combat-dam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

MWO
MechWarrior Online's devs aren't quite ready to disclose specifics on the game's minimum specs or beta process, but news for both is coming "soon." These vague assurances were the anomaly in a recent community Q&A, during which Piranha Games President Russ Bullock and Creative Director Bryan Ekman spilled on all of the minutia that fans were dying to know.

The duo said that they're "working very hard" to get MWO servers into every major region and that information about beta will be coming next week. They did confirm that there will be an open beta at some juncture, however.

Other details disclosed included the fact that players can form groups of up to 12 'Mechs, that legs cannot be blown off (but can be immobilized), and that the launch matchmaking system will be very basic and won't take into account player skill or records.

MassivelyMechWarrior Online dev Q&A covers beta, grouping, and combat damage originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaBryan-Ekmanclosed-betacommunity-q-and-af2pfree-to-playmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemin-specsminimum-specsmwoopen-betapiranhapiranha-gamespvpq-and-aRuss-Bullocksci-fisoonsoon-tmspecstweetchattwitterThu, 17 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blade & Soul on track to launch in Korea this July]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/blade-and-soul-on-track-to-launch-in-korea-this-july/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/blade-and-soul-on-track-to-launch-in-korea-this-july/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/blade-and-soul-on-track-to-launch-in-korea-this-july/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Blade & Soul
If all goes well, NCsoft's Blade & Soul will be making its public debut in July. That's the good news; the bad news is that the launch will be confined to Korea for the time being.

The company recently announced in an earnings call that the title is on track to go into open beta testing by June and then launch this July. There's some hope at NCsoft that the release of Diablo III will grow the potential gamer audience in the country, an audience that could be attracted to Blade & Soul come this summer.

Currently the game is in closed beta, with the next round of testing commencing on May 22nd. ThisIsGame reports that Blade & Soul has stirred up controversy with testers due to a vitality system that limits how fast a player can advance his or her character.

MassivelyBlade & Soul on track to launch in Korea this July originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbetablade-and-soulblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopclosed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-testingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiiearnings-callfantasygothic-fantasylaunchmartial-artsmartial-arts-mmomultiplayerncsoftncsoft-koreaonline-multiplayeropen-betaopen-beta-testopen-beta-testingreleaseroguelikerpgTue, 15 May 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: May 5 - 11, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/betawatch-may-5-11-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/betawatch-may-5-11-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/betawatch-may-5-11-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

PSO2
The Spirit Tales open beta launched this week, bumping that game up a tier on our beta list. In fact, the game proved so popular that an additional beta server was added to accommodate the avalanche of fans of all things cute.

City of Steam has announced an alpha test for July, while Storybricks is accepting alpha signups for its alpha demo right now. Compounding the season's MMO drama is Phantasy Star Online 2, which is aiming to open up its beta early this summer.

The Secret World, with its 1,000,000 beta signups, is is kicking off its first beta weekend starting today. Meanwhile, Glitch's epic beta housing patch is finally upon us, World of Warcraft has unveiled cross-server grouping in the Mists of Pandaria beta, and Guild Wars 2 announced a surprise stress test for pre-purchasers this coming Monday.

Finally, if you're bored this weekend, why not check out Diablo III-rival Path of Exile? Tipsters Don and James report it's holding a public stress test starting right as this post is published at 8 p.m. EDT tonight.

The full Betawatch roundup lies in wait behind the break.

Continue reading Betawatch: May 5 - 11, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: May 5 - 11, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 11 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit Tales open beta starts today, new features abound]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/spirit-tales-open-beta-starts-today-new-features-abound/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/spirit-tales-open-beta-starts-today-new-features-abound/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/spirit-tales-open-beta-starts-today-new-features-abound/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Spirit Tales - open beta event header
If you haven't played Spirit Tales yet, you've officially run out of excuses. The game's open beta kicks off today, according to publisher KoramGame Ltd.

The devs have added guild islands, sigil stones, and a sweetheart system to the current build, so there are plenty of things to do even if you get tired of fighting fantasy mobs in Spirit Tales' whimsical 3-D world.

There's also an enhanced pet system, new legendary gear and instanced dungeons, and a level 45 cap (beyond which lies "exclusive new content," according to KoramGame). More info, including signup details, is available at the official Spirit Tales website.

[Source: KoramGame press release]

MassivelySpirit Tales open beta starts today, new features abound originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playkoramgamekoramgame-ltdopen-betaspirit-tales-betaspirit-tales-open-betasweetheart-systemThu, 10 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 producer reveals new planet, open beta details]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/phantasy-star-online-2-producer-reveals-new-planet-open-beta-de/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/phantasy-star-online-2-producer-reveals-new-planet-open-beta-de/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/phantasy-star-online-2-producer-reveals-new-planet-open-beta-de/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Phantasy Star Online 2 - desert planet
Phantasy Star Online 2's closed beta has caused a fair bit of excitement in the game's fan community. As open beta draws near, Sega is unveiling more of the MMO sequel's features.

The next testing phase will feature a new desert planet called Liliipa, not to mention new story quests, new costumes, and something called a time attack quest. Fan site Bumped.org has the details on these and other reveals from last week's live event in Tokyo.

PSO2 producer Satoshi Sakai also showed off a new snow zone on the planet Naberius. He told fans that the upcoming open beta will be level-capped at 30, while players at level 20 and above will have access to hard mode quests and encounters.

PSO2 is currently in development for Windows, Android, and iOS platforms. The open beta is tentatively scheduled for "early summer 2012."

[Thanks to Kassandra for the tip!]

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 producer reveals new planet, open beta details originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betafantasyjapanese-betaliliipaopen-betaPhantasy-Star-Online-2pso2pso2-fan-eventpso2-planetreal-world-eventssatoshi-sakaisci-fantasysci-fisegaMon, 07 May 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 28 - May 4, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/betawatch-april-28-may-4-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/betawatch-april-28-may-4-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/betawatch-april-28-may-4-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (Glitch)
Beta launches numbered few this week, but Betawatchers were amply supplied with beta news. Glitch launched its new imagination system, we logged hands-on time with Firefall, Diablo III unveiled the Wizard and the game's TV spot, Storybricks kickstarted a Kickstarter promotion, The Repopulation promised a sandbox-worthy gear system, and the Guild Wars 2 gem store crept online.

We also say farewell to TERA this week as it's now out of beta and available in the West!

The full Betawatch roundup is tucked behind the break, ready and waiting to take over your weekend.

Continue reading Betawatch: April 28 - May 4, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: April 28 - May 4, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 04 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 21 - 27, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/betawatch-april-21-27-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/betawatch-april-21-27-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/betawatch-april-21-27-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Betawatch - Tamer Saga
Tamer Saga and Grimlands join Betawatch's closed beta list this week, while Pirate101 (arrrr!) and Dragon Crusade have been added to our alpha list. And if you were hoping to jump into Spirit Tales' open beta on Wednesday, you're out of luck: Koramgame has postponed that test until May 10th with a lengthy explanation.

Want in on the Neverwinter beta? Prepurchasing Torchlight 2 through Perfect World Entertainment's portal will guarantee your spot.

You're no doubt keeping a steady eye on both TERA, which has opened up its head start program in advance of launch next week, and Guild Wars 2, whose first beta event for prepurchasers began earlier today. EVE Fanfest attendees can now redeem their voucher codes for DUST 514 as well.

Finally, reader Chet tipped us off to the rumor fact that Salem beta test invites are going out!

Enjoy the full Betawatch roundup after the break.

Continue reading Betawatch: April 21 - 27, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: April 21 - 27, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betaroundupsalemtamer-sagatestingFri, 27 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit Tales open beta delayed until May 10th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/spirit-tales-open-beta-delayed-until-may-10th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/spirit-tales-open-beta-delayed-until-may-10th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/spirit-tales-open-beta-delayed-until-may-10th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Spirit Tales
At the beginning of the month, KoramGame announced that its upcoming saccharine-sweet free-to-play title, Spirit Tales, would be entering open beta this Wednesday, April 25th. Alas, that is no longer the case. Fans of the mind-numbingly adorable title will have to wait another couple of weeks to get their hands-on time, as KoramGame announced today that the open beta has been delayed until May 10th.

So what's the deal with the delay? According to General Manager Yann Wang, "problems have occurred that have made it difficult to incorporate certain features that are vital to the release of the game." As a result, the game "will not be ready on the date [...] originally promised." He goes on to add, however, that "the Spirit Tales team... [is] optimistic that this short-but-necessary delay will ensure that [it produces] a much more complete and polished game." Here's to hoping that's the case, but we'll just have to wait until May 10th to find out for sure.

[Source: KoramGame press release]

MassivelySpirit Tales open beta delayed until May 10th originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animebetabetasdelaydelayedf2pfree-to-playkoramgamekoramgame-ltdobtopen-betaopen-beta-testpostponedspirit-talesMon, 23 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 14 - 20, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/betawatch-april-14-20-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/betawatch-april-14-20-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/betawatch-april-14-20-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - Otherland
Three new games join Betawatch this week! The Tad Williams-inspired Otherland is now accepting alpha sign-ups; Aeria Games announced Waren Story with a beta sign-up and a trailer; and Gamania opened up the testing rolls for its newest MMO, Soul Captor.

Meanwhile, heavy-hitters TERA and Guild Wars 2 are focusing on their impending beta weekends. TERA's first open beta weekend starts today, while Guild Wars 2 plans its first beta event for pre-purchasers next weekend.

Finally, Blizzard will be closing down the Diablo III beta come Tuesday in preparation for launch next month. That means that today through Monday is your last chance to get it on the open beta!

Read on for the full Betawatch roundup!

Continue reading Betawatch: April 14 - 20, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: April 14 - 20, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 20 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest TERA trailer takes players to the shores of the new Island of Dawn prologue]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/latest-tera-trailer-takes-players-to-the-shores-of-the-new-islan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/latest-tera-trailer-takes-players-to-the-shores-of-the-new-islan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/latest-tera-trailer-takes-players-to-the-shores-of-the-new-islan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA
TERA's open beta test kicked off in earnest today, opening the floodgates for waves of excited players to enter the realm of Arborea. To commemorate the occasion, En Masse Entertainment has released a new trailer that shows off the game's newly crafted prologue area, which gives players a taste of high level play before they enter the game proper.

For those not yet in the beta, here's the down-low: Players begin their journey aboard a ship bound for the Island of Dawn, and as anyone familiar with fantasy tropes knows, getting on a ship bound for an unknown land is often just a prelude to a terrible shipwreck. TERA's prologue is no different, and players soon find themselves stranded in exceedingly hostile territory with a rather nasty demon infestation. Naturally, it falls to players to play demon exterminators and get the shipwrecked crew to safety because everyone else is too busy standing around telling the players what to do. Lazy chumps. At any rate, to get a first-hand look at the new prologue zone and all of the demon-ass-kicking it entails, just go watch the official trailer for yourself.

Continue reading Latest TERA trailer takes players to the shores of the new Island of Dawn prologue

MassivelyLatest TERA trailer takes players to the shores of the new Island of Dawn prologue originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyisland-of-dawnobtopen-betaopen-beta-testprologueteratrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 20 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III roars into an open beta weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/diablo-iii-roars-into-an-open-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/diablo-iii-roars-into-an-open-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/diablo-iii-roars-into-an-open-beta-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Diablo III
Flex those mouse-clicking fingers, compadres -- it's demon-hunting time! This weekend, Blizzard is blowing the doors off Diablo III's beta, allowing any and all (well, those with a Battle.net account, that is) to come try out this upcoming action RPG.

The open beta weekend begins at 3:00 p.m. EDT today and lasts until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, April 23rd. During the beta, all five classes will be available, but players will be limited to a level 13 cap as they give the game a whirl.

To access the Diablo III open beta, you'll need a valid Battle.net account and a BattleTag. Despite playing in the open beta, participants won't be able to post in the beta forums and won't receive Beta Bucks to spend.

Asian players in Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau will be part of not this stress test but rather a separate invitation-only closed beta test starting on April 23rd.

MassivelyDiablo III roars into an open beta weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattle.netbattlenetbattletagbetabeta-bucksblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasyhong-kongkoreamacaumultiplayeronline-multiplayeropen-betaopen-beta-weekendroguelikerpgstress-testtaiwanFri, 20 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 7 - 13, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/betawatch-april-7-13-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/betawatch-april-7-13-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/betawatch-april-7-13-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - Glitch
Betawatch bids farewell to Tribes: Ascend this week; it's officially launched and shiny, and even better, it's F2P, so go get your pew on! If you're that one guy who just doesn't dig jetpacks, maybe try a free beta key for UFO Online, currently still in closed beta.

Meanwhile, fantasy MMO heavyweights Guild Wars 2 and TERA have been ramping up their beta hype with sneak-peeks, open beta plans, and pre-purchase kickoffs. If you're more into vampires, you'll be pleased to learn that Dark Legends has also rolled out to Android phones and Chrome. And finally, we've gotten another update from the Glitch folks about that game's impending housing revamp.

Enjoy the full Betawatch roundup!

Continue reading Betawatch: April 7 - 13, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: April 7 - 13, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testingglitchlaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 13 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse Entertainment wraps up TERA closed beta weekends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/en-masse-entertainment-wraps-up-tera-closed-beta-weekends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/en-masse-entertainment-wraps-up-tera-closed-beta-weekends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/en-masse-entertainment-wraps-up-tera-closed-beta-weekends/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA
The fifth and final TERA closed beta weekend went out with a bang last weekend, heralding the beginning of the final steps toward the game's May launch. But before En Masse Entertainment opens the floodgates of open beta testing, it has decided to release some interesting details and statistics regarding the closed beta test weekends.

For instance, over the course of the closed beta weekends, players formed 90,000 parties and over 3,600 guilds in order to hunt down and destroy over 7.6 billion monsters. In the process, they earned a total of over 14.5 billion gold, collected 20 million items, and bit the dust almost 2 million times. Castanics reigned surpreme as the most commonly chosen race (with Humans and High Elves not far behind), while the most popular class was the Warrior, followed closely by Sorcerer and Slayer. Of course, players can expect to blow these numbers out of the water when open beta begins on April 19th.

[Source: En Masse Entertainment press release]

MassivelyEn Masse Entertainment wraps up TERA closed beta weekends originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasblueholebluehole-studioscbtclosed-beta-weekendclosed-beta-weekendsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasylies-damn-lies-and-statisticsobtopen-betastatisticsterawrap-upFri, 13 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA announces open beta and head start schedules]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/tera-announces-open-beta-and-head-start-schedules/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/tera-announces-open-beta-and-head-start-schedules/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/tera-announces-open-beta-and-head-start-schedules/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA
TERA's May 1st launch date is just around the corner, and we all know what that means: open beta testing and head start events ahoy! En Masse Entertainment has released a full schedule for the events leading up to the game's launch, so players can go ahead and plan when to call in sick to work.

Players who have pre-ordered the game will be able to log in between April 13th and April 17th in order to create their first characters, thereby ensuring that they get the names they want. The game's open beta test will begin shortly after, and pre-order customers will once again get a one-day jump on the competition as they will be able to log in beginning on April 19th. On April 20th, the beta will open to the public, and it will run for three days until April 23rd. And finally, pre-order customers will get one final head start on April 28th, allowing them three days to explore the world of Arborea before the floodgates open to everyone on May 1st. So hone your blades, string your bows, and ready your spells, Arboreans. We'll see you on the other side.

MassivelyTERA announces open beta and head start schedules originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablueholebluehole-studiosearly-accessen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyhead-starthead-startslaunchlaunchesobtopen-betaopen-beta-testopen-beta-testingteraTue, 10 Apr 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit Tales livestream giveaway happening this Friday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/spirit-tales-livestream-giveaway-happening-this-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/spirit-tales-livestream-giveaway-happening-this-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/spirit-tales-livestream-giveaway-happening-this-friday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Challenger keyboard
Spirit Tales is counting down the days until its open beta goes live on April 25th, but that doesn't mean there's nothing for players to do between now and then. On the contrary, KoramGame is hosting a livestream event on April 13th to both show off the game and hand out prizes to its devoted fans.

By tuning into the Spirit Tales livestream on Friday at 5:00 p.m. EDT, fans can get an eyeful of the game prior to open beta and have a chance at winning one of several giveaways. The livestream will cover a variety of topics, including character creation, PvP, dungeons, and the pet system. You'll need to be logged into Twitch.tv to have a chance at winning.

In addition to handing out goodies over the livestream, KoramGame is awarding one Tt eSPORTS Challenger gaming keyboard and five in-game pets to winners of a future drawing. To get a shot at this, you'll need to register for a free account at the Spirit Tales website.

MassivelySpirit Tales livestream giveaway happening this Friday originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacontestcutef2pfree-to-playgiveawaykoramgamelivestreamopen-betapreviewpromotionspirit-talestwitch-tvtwitch.tvMon, 09 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 31 - April 6, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/betawatch-march-31-april-6-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/betawatch-march-31-april-6-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/betawatch-march-31-april-6-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (Star Conflict)
This week on Betawatch, we say farewell to Seven Souls Online and Blacklight Retribution, both of which have now launched officially. In their place, we've added two new games to keep an eye on: Star Conflict, a PvP-oriented space-combat MMO, joins our open beta list, while Grecca, a 2-D sandbox MMO, earns its city-building self a spot on our (open) alpha list.

Meanwhile, Spirit Tales announced an open beta date of April 25th, TERA kicked off its final closed beta weekend with a look at what open beta will entail, and Ensemble Online reached out for Kickstarter funding for its beta.

Enjoy the full Betawatch roundup beyond the break.

Continue reading Betawatch: March 31 - April 6, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: March 31 - April 6, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betaensemble-onlinefeaturedgame-testinggreccalaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 06 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit Tales open beta goes live April 25th; cuteness levels critical]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/spirit-tales-open-beta-goes-live-april-25th-cuteness-levels-cri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/spirit-tales-open-beta-goes-live-april-25th-cuteness-levels-cri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/spirit-tales-open-beta-goes-live-april-25th-cuteness-levels-cri/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

WHO'SH A GOOD DOGGY-MAGE-THING? YOU ARE! YESH YOU ARE!
Over the past couple of weeks, we've gotten a few glimpses of KoramGame's upcoming free-to-play MMO, Spirit Tales, but so far the game has been closed off to all but select closed beta testers. Thankfully for those who have been waiting patiently to get their hands on the game, KoramGame has announced that the title (with all of its precious chibi goodness) will be bouncing into open beta on April 25th.

To celebrate the occasion, the studio has announced that it will be giving away over $2000 in prizes to players who sign up for the game's open beta. The prizes run the gamut from in-game items to a snazzy NVidia GeForce GTX 560 video card. If you can brace yourself against the sheer concentrated cute that the game has on display, it may be worth your while to head over to the giveaway site and sign up for yourself.

[Source: KoramGame press release]

MassivelySpirit Tales open beta goes live April 25th; cuteness levels critical originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animebetabeta-testbeta-testingf2pfree-to-playits-so-fluffy-im-gonna-diekoramgamekoramgame-ltdobtopen-betaopen-beta-testopen-beta-testingspirit-talesTue, 03 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 24 - 30, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/betawatch-march-24-30-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/betawatch-march-24-30-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/betawatch-march-24-30-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (UFO Online pic)
This week in Betawatch, UFO Online entered its next round of closed beta, World of Warcraft's Mists of Pandaria beta opened up to more annual pass subscribers, and Auto Club Revolution kicked off a testing phase of its own, thereby joining our official open beta list.

Tired of standard MMOs? MMOFPS Firefall has announced its next stage of beta, and fans of Roguelikes can pile on the Path of Exile public stress test all weekend (thanks to reader Carson for that tip).

Don't forget our coverage of the latest and greatest Guild Wars 2 beta media event!

The full Betawatch roundup is tucked behind the cut.

Continue reading Betawatch: March 24 - 30, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: March 24 - 30, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 30 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Auto Club Revolution open beta starts today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/auto-club-revolution-open-beta-starts-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/auto-club-revolution-open-beta-starts-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/auto-club-revolution-open-beta-starts-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Auto Club Revolution - Lotus at Silverstone
For whatever reason, racing titles have yet to really hit the MMO mainstream. Sure there's Need for Speed World, Test Drive Unlimited 2, iRacing, and the late, great Motor City Online. None of them has broken away from the pack, though, which leaves room for a new entry. Auto Club Revolution has just entered its open beta phase, and Eutechnyx hopes to carve out a foothold for itself thanks to over 40 licensed car manufacturers, 150-plus upgrade parts, and a selection of accurately modeled real-life race tracks that are all completely free.

ACR is free-to-play, and players can unlock new vehicles at no cost via the game's progression mechanics. There's a dual currency system in place that mixes earned credits with E-Bucks, and both may be used to purchase upgrades, and customization options.

The game also features single-player challenges and a variety of racing modes. If that sounds like something you'd like to check out for free, head to the official site to join the open beta.

[Source: Eutechnyx press release]

MassivelyAuto Club Revolution open beta starts today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acrauto-club-revolutionauto-club-revolution-betabetaeutechnyxf2pfree-to-playopen-betaracingracing-mmoThu, 29 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How do you roleplay betas?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-roleplay-betas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-roleplay-betas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-roleplay-betas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Diablo III
This may be a little to esoteric of a way to start your Wednesday morning, but you can't spell "Massively" in several foreign languages without "eso" and "teric." Anyway, this past week I posed a tongue-in-cheek question to RP-leaning friends on Twitter about how they roleplay betas. How did they take into account the fact that this world was to end? Was their character aware of the theory of multiple universes? Or did they simply put off roleplaying until the actual launch?

What surprised me were the thoughtful and interesting responses I received. I had just assumed nobody actually bothered with RP in betas, but that's not the truth; on the contrary, many of my friends used the time to experiment with characters, to begin to fashion stories, or even to play their character as an ancestor of their soon-to-come main.

So what about you? How do you -- or would you -- roleplay betas with their unstable, transitory worlds?

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: How do you roleplay betas? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasclosed-betadaily-grindopen-betaopinionroleplayroleplay-in-betasroleplayingrptdgthe-daily-grindWed, 28 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 17 - 23, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/betawatch-march-17-23-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/betawatch-march-17-23-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/betawatch-march-17-23-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - WoW pic
This week has been huge for Betawatchers: The beta for World of Warcraft's Mists of Pandaria expansion kicked off, Wrath of Heroes' beta servers are now open, and Salem has begun accepting beta signups. We also learned that the End of Nations closed beta will start this spring.

Are you hoping to populate The Repopulation? Alpha signups went live just a few hours ago! Or maybe you're still waiting on Glitch's re-release? TinySpeck released a progress report earlier this evening (housing fans should go peek).

Finally, ArenaNet confirmed that a batch of Guild Wars 2 beta invites went out this week. Massively will be in attendance over the weekend, so tell us what you want to know and we'll do our best to focus on it!

The full Betawatch roundup is after the cut!

Continue reading Betawatch: March 17 - 23, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: March 17 - 23, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingthe-repopulationFri, 23 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 10 - 16, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/betawatch-march-10-16-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/betawatch-march-10-16-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/betawatch-march-10-16-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - Spirit Tales
Happy Friday, Betawatchers! This week, Spirit Tales entered closed beta, Seven Souls Online and Command & Conquer Tiberium Alliances joined our open beta list, and we caught more than a glimpse of The Secret World's current beta build at GDC.

Yesterday, we gave away 10,000 closed beta test keys for TERA. Apparently, you guys really wanted in because they're all gone. But if you didn't snag one, maybe you'll want to check out RaiderZ or one of the other Betawatch games in the list after the break!

Continue reading Betawatch: March 10 - 16, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: March 10 - 16, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 16 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Command & Conquer browser MMO enters open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/command-and-conquer-browser-mmo-enters-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/command-and-conquer-browser-mmo-enters-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/command-and-conquer-browser-mmo-enters-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Command & Conquer Tiberium Alliances - concept art
Another beloved IP, another browser-based MMO. This time it's not the gritty fantasy of George R.R. Martin but the sci-fi battlefield of Command & Conquer that is receiving the MMO-lite treatment.

Gamasutra reports that Command & Conquer Tiberium Alliances "is not a Facebook game" like previous Electronic Arts browser titles, which include Lord of Ultima and Tiger Woods PGA Tour Online. Command & Conquer is "hosted on a stand-alone site," marking the first time the storied franchise has tried its hand at the free-to-play model.

The game has been in closed beta since December and is now available to a global audience via its public open beta.

MassivelyCommand & Conquer browser MMO enters open beta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-mmocasualCommand-and-Conquercommand-and-conquer-tiberium-allianceseaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playopen-betasci-fiThu, 15 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Seven Souls Online open beta brings open PvP, new zones]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/seven-souls-online-open-beta-brings-open-pvp-new-zones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/seven-souls-online-open-beta-brings-open-pvp-new-zones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/seven-souls-online-open-beta-brings-open-pvp-new-zones/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Seven Souls Online - female avatar
Free-to-play betas are something of a running joke around these parts, and it's not uncommon to see such games undergoing prolonged testing periods for months (or even years). Seven Souls Online might be breaking that mold, though, as the title is heading into open beta tomorrow after the conclusion of its closed beta that began earlier this year.

The NEOWIZ title is heavy on martial arts action, and the new beta will raise the level cap to 40 as well as introduce the new Dragonscale Valley zone, the Inferno dungeon, and open-world PvP combat. Said PvP becomes available at level 31, and you can learn more about Seven Souls -- as well as sign up for beta -- on the game's official website.

[Source: NEOWIZ Games press release]

MassivelySeven Souls Online open beta brings open PvP, new zones originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadungeonsf2pf2p-betafree-to-playgame-mechanicsmartial-artsNeoWizneowiz-gamesopen-betaopen-world-pvppvpseven-soulsseven-souls-onlineWed, 14 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 3 - 9, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/betawatch-march-3-9-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/betawatch-march-3-9-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/betawatch-march-3-9-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Betawatch - Tribes Ascend pic
GDC has brought with it several tweaks to the Betawatch list! We've learned that DUST 514 will be entering a more open beta come April and Tribes: Ascend will officially launch on April 12th.

Meanwhile, the TERA team has kicked off a series of contests to accompany its third closed beta weekend. Line of Defense and Remanum have begun accepting beta signups; Dragon Born aims for a closed beta later this month; and City of Steam is offering a sneak-peek for long-time followers.

Finally, we say farewell to Rise of Dragonian Era, which launched today, and Crystal Saga, which launches on March 12th.

Enjoy the full Betawatch roundup!

Continue reading Betawatch: March 3 - 9, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: March 3 - 9, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betacrystal-sagafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarise-of-dragonian-eraroderounduptestingFri, 09 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Remanum launches first international server, tweaks ports]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/remanum-launches-first-international-server-tweaks-ports/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/remanum-launches-first-international-server-tweaks-ports/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/remanum-launches-first-international-server-tweaks-ports/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Remanum - browser-based trade MMO
All roads lead to Rome, even in the world of browser MMOs. Travian Games is trumpeting its commerce-based Remanum title, which puts the player in the role of a merchant-politician at the height of ancient Roman civilization.

Travian has just launched the game's first international server, and now English-language players can vie for the rank of Roman emperor while trading goods and engaging in various political machinations. Travian, a Bavaria-based browser game outfit, has also launched a new German-language server for Remanum's open beta.

The firm is also updating the game's UI and increasing the range on the game's ports, which will ease the acquisition of scarce resources, according to a Travian statement.

[Source: Travian Games press release]

MassivelyRemanum launches first international server, tweaks ports originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-romebrowserbrowser-basedeconomyf2pfree-to-playopen-betaremanumremanum-international-serverrometradetradingtraviantravian-gamesFri, 09 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: February 25 - March 2, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/betawatch-february-25-march-2-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/betawatch-february-25-march-2-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/betawatch-february-25-march-2-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Betawatch - Wafku image
Betawatch makes its final farewells to Wakfu this week; the strategy-sandbox launched on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Rise of Dragonian Era aims to launch March 9th, RaiderZ plans to open its alpha test on March 14th, and Spirit Tales will begin closed beta on March 15th.

There's a bit of sad news for fans of Stellar Dawn and Dawntide; the development of both titles has been paused as their respective studios regroup.

Finally, we scored some hands-on time with pseudo-MMOs End of Nations and Blacklight: Retribution.

Enjoy the rest of this week's Betawatch roundup beyond the cut!

Continue reading Betawatch: February 25 - March 2, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: February 25 - March 2, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarise-of-dragonian-eraroderoundupspirit-talestestingwakfuFri, 02 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: February 18 - 24, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/betawatch-february-18-24-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/betawatch-february-18-24-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/betawatch-february-18-24-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch - Guns of Icarus screenie
Happy Friday, Betawatchers! Reader Mason tipped us off to the fact that sandbox Salem Online is now accepting signups for closed alpha testing. The team is hoping to launch said closed alpha in the next few weeks.

Tribes: Ascend and SteelWar Online have moved to our open beta list, while the closed beta list gets two new additions: steampunk pseudo-MMO Guns of Icarus and cutesy Divina. World of Warplanes and The Missing Ink, meanwhile, join our resurrected alpha category.

We also say farewell to Wakfu, whose global open beta period has come to a close. The game will be launching next week on February 29th.

And who could forget Guild Wars 2's two-day beta signup window earlier this week? If you missed it, our hands-on impressions and crafting guide might cheer you up.

Enjoy the full Betawatch roundup after the break!

Continue reading Betawatch: February 18 - 24, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: February 18 - 24, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbest-testbetabeta-testingbeta-testsbetasbetawatchclosed-betadivinafeaturedguns-of-icarusmassively-metaopen-betaFri, 24 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Stick it to the world in The Missing Ink's open alpha]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/stick-it-to-the-world-in-the-missing-inks-open-alpha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/stick-it-to-the-world-in-the-missing-inks-open-alpha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/stick-it-to-the-world-in-the-missing-inks-open-alpha/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Missing Ink
If you like your MMOs a little bit sandboxy, a little bit quirky, and 100% indie, then RedBedlam's upcoming title The Missing Ink might be right up your alley. The game puts players in control of a 3-D world which they can mold to their liking and also provides MMO mainstays such as combat, PvP, exploration, and more. The game is still in the alpha testing phase, so players should expect more than the occasional bug or glitch. But if you want to help an indie developer iron the kinks out of its Unity-based sandbox MMO, then just head on over to the game's official site to sign up. There's no selection process; just sign up, jump in, and shape the world.

MassivelyStick it to the world in The Missing Ink's open alpha originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testalpha-testingalphasbetabeta-testbetasf2pfree-to-playindependentindependent-gamesindieindie-developersindie-devsindie-gamesmissing-inkopenopen-alphaopen-betaredbedlamthe-missing-inkFri, 24 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: Why you should be playing Tribes: Ascend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/the-firing-line-why-you-should-be-playing-tribes-ascend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/the-firing-line-why-you-should-be-playing-tribes-ascend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/the-firing-line-why-you-should-be-playing-tribes-ascend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - Tribes open beta edition
Skiing! Jetpacks! Pew pew!

Yes, kids, Tribes: Ascend is officially in open beta, and that means you no longer have an excuse. Hi-Rez Studios threw open the doors this morning, and despite the fact that the game's closed beta exceeded all expectations and hosted over 300,000 players since its November kickoff, there's always room for more.

Continue reading The Firing Line: Why you should be playing Tribes: Ascend

MassivelyThe Firing Line: Why you should be playing Tribes: Ascend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air-arenaarena-deathmatchbetablood-eaglecapture-the-flagctfdeathmatchdiamond-swordfeaturedfiring-linefirst-impressionsfpshi-rezhi-rez-studiosimpressionslava-arenaludicrous-speedmultiplayer-shooteronline-shooteropen-betapathfinderrabbitsci-fisentinelshazbotshootersoldierspeedthe-firing-linetodd-harristribestribes-ascendtribes-betatribes-beta-impressionstribes-open-betaFri, 24 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
League of Legends discussed the Chinese community this week as part of its World Tour series. Dota 2 delivered three weeks worth of beta updates at once, including a new single draft game mode and matchmaking system. Heroes of Newerth released its latest hero this week, the fire-breathing dragon Draconis, who has massive farming capabilities. Rise of Immortals launched its latest immortal Kaos, a seemingly mortal US Marine lost in the game's fantasy land.

Diablo III took another step toward release this week by finalising a replacement for the scrapped rune stone system and cutting socketable runes from the list of potential features at the same time. Torchlight II teased players with six new screenshots, and Path of Exile discussed the design process behind the game's unique items. Finally, Blacklight: Retribution announced its public open beta, which is due to start next week.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbattlenetbetablacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadraconise-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroheroes-of-newerthhonimmortalkaosleague-of-legendslolmmofpsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeropen-betapath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvppweriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunerunesrunestonerunic-gamess2s2-gamesskillstl2torchlight-iivideoMon, 20 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: February 11 - 17, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/betawatch-february-11-17-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/betawatch-february-11-17-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/betawatch-february-11-17-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (LAW screenshot)
Post-apoc fans will be happy to see Living After War join our closed beta list this week, while bot aficionados can look forward to SteelWar Online, which has joined our alpha list, although it won't remain there for long as the game is launching its open beta this coming Sunday. Seven Souls Online, which joined Betawatch last week, peppered Massively with beta keys for its closed beta event, which began on February 15th. And Jagged Alliance Online received a promotion to our open beta list.

Finally, for those curious about TERA's ongoing closed beta tests, we delivered our official preview.

The full Betawatch roundup beckons you past the break.

Continue reading Betawatch: February 11 - 17, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: February 11 - 17, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabest-testbetabeta-testingbeta-testsbetawatchbrick-forceclosed-betafeaturedinfernummassively-metammgame-usaopen-betarise-of-dragonian-eraroderode-onlineFri, 17 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: February 4 - 10, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/betawatch-february-4-10-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/betawatch-february-4-10-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/betawatch-february-4-10-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (RODE pic)
Mmgame USA's Rise of Dragonian Era joins our closed beta list this week. The F2P sandpark title is aiming for a March launch, but prizes (including cash and video cards) await those who give the beta a spin this weekend.

Massively also secured codes for Seven Souls Online's beta, which begins on February 15th.

Finally, we're keeping an eye on the ongoing TERA sneak-peeks and beta events. If you preordered, you should be able to participate starting today.

Read on for the complete Betawatch roundup!

Continue reading Betawatch: February 4 - 10, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: February 4 - 10, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabest-testbetabeta-testingbeta-testsbetawatchbrick-forceclosed-betafeaturedinfernummassively-metammgame-usaopen-betarise-of-dragonian-eraroderode-onlineFri, 10 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Noria and gPotato release new Sevencore trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/noria-and-gpotato-release-new-sevencore-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/noria-and-gpotato-release-new-sevencore-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/04/noria-and-gpotato-release-new-sevencore-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Sevencore - dragon mount
Last summer we showed you a couple of trailers for a new Korean free-to-play import called Sevencore. The title is an interesting mixture of fantasy and sci-fi, and it is also the product of an alliance between development firm Noria and publishing partner gPotato. The game's Korean open beta is close at hand, and the two companies have released a new cinematic trailer to drum up some interest.

Click past the cut for your daily dose of fantasy violence, brooding male voiceovers, and orchestral action-movie music. There are also a few glimpses of Sevencore's unique mounts, including a fire-breathing dragon and some sort of swoop analog that we'd love to take for a spin.

Continue reading Noria and gPotato release new Sevencore trailer

MassivelyNoria and gPotato release new Sevencore trailer originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadragondragon-mountf2pfantasyfree-to-playgpotatokorean-betakorean-open-betamountsnoriaopen-betasci-fisevencoretrailervideoSat, 04 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: January 28 - February 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/betawatch-january-28-february-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/betawatch-january-28-february-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/betawatch-january-28-february-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (Brick-Force screenshot)
This week, TERA revealed the details of its North American and European pre-orders and associated closed beta tests. WAKFU, still in beta but launching at the end of February, likewise unveiled its subscription plans, and Mythos Global officially entered open beta. Again.

Finally, Brick-Force, a Minecraft-inspired sandbox-shooter pseudo-MMO (say that 10 times fast) from German publisher Infernum, has made it to our alpha list as it's aiming for closed beta on February 28th.

Read on for the entire Betawatch roundup.

Continue reading Betawatch: January 28 - February 3

MassivelyBetawatch: January 28 - February 3 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabest-testbetabeta-testingbeta-testsbetawatchbrick-forceclosed-betafeaturedinfernummassively-metaopen-betaFri, 03 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play the MMO that never dies with Mythos Global's open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-the-mmo-that-never-dies-with-mythos-globals-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-the-mmo-that-never-dies-with-mythos-globals-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/play-the-mmo-that-never-dies-with-mythos-globals-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mythos title image
Mythos is the MMO that almost wasn't, then was, then wasn't, and then was again. The free-to-play Diablo-esque MMO was in playable beta as far back as November 2007, but its release was plagued by problems you wouldn't wish on your worst enemies.

Mythos has somehow survived its entire original development team being fired, legal battles over the intellectual property rights to the game, and being kicked from publisher to publisher. Now in its third incarnation as Mythos Global, the game will soon relaunch to excited fans, and to curious gamers who didn't play it while it was live.

If you didn't snag one of Massively's keys for the closed beta back in December, your chance to play the game starts now! Mythos Global officially entered open beta today, with free registration available via its new publisher T3Fun.

MassivelyPlay the MMO that never dies with Mythos Global's open beta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgback-from-the-deadbetadiablof2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogstergothic-fantasyhanbitsoftmultiplayermythosmythos-globalonline-multiplayeropen-betaredbanarpgt3funThu, 02 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: January 21 - 27, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/betawatch-january-21-27-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/betawatch-january-21-27-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/betawatch-january-21-27-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (GW2)
It's been a good week for beta-watchers: We've finally learned that Guild Wars 2, currently in a very hush-hush closed beta, will be making its way to our PCs in 2012. ArenaNet has announced that press betas and public beta weekends will begin in the coming months.

Anime MMO Spirit Tales joins our closed beta list this week, and we've also belatedly added mobile MMO Traveller AR and MMOFPS titles Repulse and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Online to the open beta list.

Finally, for those looking forward to Firefall, Red 5 Studios will be streaming some beta gameplay tomorrow, January 28th, starting at 2 p.m. EST.

Enjoy the full Betawatch roundup after the cut!

Continue reading Betawatch: January 21 - 27, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: January 21 - 27, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabest-testbetabeta-testingbeta-testsbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedmassively-metaopen-betaFri, 27 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: January 14 - 20, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/betawatch-january-14-20-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/betawatch-january-14-20-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/betawatch-january-14-20-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Betawatch (Seven Souls Online screenshot)
This week, two new games have made their way to Betawatch: Seven Souls Online and indie MMO World Alpha, both of which are currently accepting closed beta testers. We also snagged a glimpse of Jagged Alliance Online's new PvP system and a shiny new trailer for iOS MMO Traveller AR.

Finally, Massively reader Odericko tipped us off to ongoing back-in-beta Glitch dev Q&As. The question segment is over, but the second session -- the answer session! -- kicks off at 8:00 p.m. EST tonight, precisely when Betawatch goes live. Go get your Glitch on!

The full Betawatch roundup is tucked behind the break.

Continue reading Betawatch: January 14 - 20, 2012

MassivelyBetawatch: January 14 - 20, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabest-testbetabeta-testingbeta-testsbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedmassively-metaopen-betaFri, 20 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST