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[The Daily Grind: What originally got you into MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/the-daily-grind-what-originally-got-you-into-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/the-daily-grind-what-originally-got-you-into-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/the-daily-grind-what-originally-got-you-into-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Tron. The original one, not that new-fangled crap. Get off my lawn!
Do you remember where you were when you first heard about the idea of paying $15 a month for a video game? How about when you finally accepted that it's actually cheaper than most of your other hobbies? Or how about when you signed up for your second concurrent subscription?

Most of us have changed our game-playing (and paying) habits because of MMOs, and the beginning of that wasn't too far back. The transition usually started with a trusted developer (Blizzard, Sony) or IP (Ultima), but not all of us started at the very beginning.

So that's where your stories come in. Tell us how you first got into MMOs.

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What originally got you into MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindogopinionoriginaloriginsstarttdgthe-daily-grindtronSat, 31 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Third Origins of Malu race revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/third-origins-of-malu-race-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/third-origins-of-malu-race-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/third-origins-of-malu-race-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Origins of Malu - Qulinta transformation
Origins of Malu has been flying under the radar of late, but the team at Burning Dog Media has just updated its website with the game's third playable race.

On the surface, the Qulinta appear to be rather benign (if not cute and cuddly), but it would be a mistake to underestimate them on the battlefield. Burning Dog says that Qulinta undergo a stark transformation when threatened, one that manifests as an "ethereal ghost-like appearance with dark energy emanating from their bodies."

The Qulinta people are known for their xenophobia, and they are one of the oldest races in the Origins mythos. You can read more about their history at the game's official website, but don't forget to look at the new concept art in the gallery below.

Gallery: Origins of Malu

MassivelyThird Origins of Malu race revealed originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burning-dogburning-dog-mediafantasygalleriesgalleryloreoriginsorigins-of-maluqulintaracessandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsSun, 19 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Origins of Malu video highlights story-based sandbox design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/new-origins-of-malu-video-highlights-story-based-sandbox-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/new-origins-of-malu-video-highlights-story-based-sandbox-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/new-origins-of-malu-video-highlights-story-based-sandbox-design/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Origins of Malu - San the unhappy guy who wanders around
We've been looking forward to Origins of Malu for a while now, even though the sci-fantasy sandbox from Burning Dog Media has been kept pretty tightly under wraps. That's starting to change as the company ramps up its presence at various gaming outlets in anticipation of an Origins closed beta in the near future.

Electric Playground has what amounts to the first official Origins trailer, and the clip features a good bit of in-game alpha footage as well as brief interview clips and commentary from lead designer Michael Dunham. During the course of the video, you'll get a taste of the world and its backstory, and Dunham describes Malu as a "gigantic network of portals around the universe [that are] linked through inter-dimensions."

Dunham also explains a bit about the mechanical philosophy behind Origins, stating that "we wanted to build a story-based sandbox game where the user is able to do what they want to do from the beginning [...] it can't be just a complete free-for-all, but at the same time we don't want railroad tracks," he says. Journey past the cut for the full video.

Continue reading New Origins of Malu video highlights story-based sandbox design

MassivelyNew Origins of Malu video highlights story-based sandbox design originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burning-dogburning-dog-mediafantasymalumichael-dunhammmo-storyoriginsorigins-of-maluoverviewsandboxsci-fantasysci-fistorystory-based-sandboxtrailervideoMon, 28 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Burning Dog announces cross-platform plans for Origins of Malu]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/burning-dog-announces-cross-platform-plans-for-origins-of-malu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/burning-dog-announces-cross-platform-plans-for-origins-of-malu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/burning-dog-announces-cross-platform-plans-for-origins-of-malu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Origins of Malu - landscape screenshot
We've got some more Origins of Malu news today courtesy of the team at Burning Dog Media. A new press release on the sandbox MMORPG's official website is touting a partnership with Dell and Alienware that will generate awareness of the sci-fi title as it heads into its beta phase and eyes a 2012 launch. The release also mentions cross-platform functionality, and though it doesn't elaborate, we contacted lead developer Michael Dunham for clarification.

As it turns out, the Origins team is aiming for both PC and Mac clients, and some sort of mobile/tablet functionality is in the works as well.

We'll keep you up to date on that as we learn more, and in the meantime you can head to the Origins website to read up on the game. Before you go, be sure and check out Massively's exclusive interview with the dev team.

MassivelyBurning Dog announces cross-platform plans for Origins of Malu originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alienwareburning-dogburning-dog-mediacross-platformcross-platform-functionalitydellmacmac-clientmarketingmobileoriginsorigins-of-malupartnershippress-releasesandboxsci-fitabletsTue, 01 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Origins of Malu reveals Toljon race]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/origins-of-malu-reveals-toljon-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/origins-of-malu-reveals-toljon-race/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/origins-of-malu-reveals-toljon-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Origins of Malu - Toljon raceWhat's new from the Origins of Malu crew? How about a new race, for starters. The sandbox title is gearing up for its beta period sometime during the next couple of months, and as a prelude, Burning Dog Media is starting to ramp up its information dissemination.

Today's reveal centers on the Toljon, and though we don't get any gameplay info, there is quite a bit of lore related to the unique race.

The Toljon are renowned for their approach to building civilizations, which feature "entire bridges and roadways being suspended off the ground, connecting areas otherwise separated by cliffs and canyons." The Toljon have even perfected a way to seed farmland high above the ground, and you can read all about this unusual people at the official Origins website.

MassivelyOrigins of Malu reveals Toljon race originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burning-dogburning-dog-mediafantasyloreoriginsorigins-of-malurace-revealracessandboxsci-fiteljonMon, 31 Oct 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Origins of Malu has more plans on the horizon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/origins-of-malu-has-more-plans-on-the-horizon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/origins-of-malu-has-more-plans-on-the-horizon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/origins-of-malu-has-more-plans-on-the-horizon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sandboxes are purple and orange, everyone knows that.
If you're a long-time fan of sandbox gameplay, Origins of Malu is most likely on your short list for games to watch. The developers are promising that the game will allow players to experience a true sandbox environment, and from their early discussion of the game, it's certainly promising thus far. Of course, the real verdict is going to come when the game goes live, but until then, the team at Burning Dog Media is planning more updates to keep players hooked.

An earlier posting on the official Facebook page claims that there are two major announcements about the game coming this month as well as information about how PvP will work and exactly what the team is doing for it. There's also the promise of official forums on the site and developer videos, both chances for future players to get engaged in the development and refinement process. If you're following the sandbox field, this may be worth keeping an eye on.

[Thanks to Halldorr for the tip!]

MassivelyOrigins of Malu has more plans on the horizon originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burning-dog-mediacoming-soonfacebookmaluoriginsorigins-mmoorigins-of-malusandboxsandbox-gameupdatesWed, 05 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/some-assembly-required-diving-into-details-of-origins-of-malu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/some-assembly-required-diving-into-details-of-origins-of-malu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/some-assembly-required-diving-into-details-of-origins-of-malu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header image
"This will be the world's best game ever ever ever!" -Michael Dunham. You tell 'em!

Honestly, we have heard it before: MMORPG feature lists that promise what our sandbox-loving hearts desire. Try as we might, we cannot escape those sneaky tendrils of hope that find the chinks in our +10 jaded armor of cynicism as we read about the return of a true virtual where actions have consequences, personal choices dictate gameplay, and individuality is a matter of principle.

Sadly, time and time again those hopes are dashed by titles that either cannot deliver on their promises or never even survive until launch. The same is true for the developers at Burning Dog Media; they too have ridden the roller coaster of sandbox dreams and harbored in their hearts a vision of their ultimate game if only they had the wherewithal to produce it. The difference between them and us is... they do!

Welcome to issue #6 of Some Assembly Required -- an exclusive interview with Michael Dunham and Dave Cruikshank -- Lead Developer and Art Director of Burning Dog Media, respectively -- who are in the midst of developing the new sci-fi/fantasy MMORPG Origins of Malu. Originally called just Origins (the change was to help avoid confusion with other projects that were cropping up with similar titles), this game previously teased sandbox aficionados with a glimpse at some hope-stirring features. Today, we have the privilege of expounding on "coming soon" and revealing more features that not only are planned but are for the most part implemented.

So why should we check out Origins of Malu? And what tantalizing tidbits of sandboxy goodness can we expect? Grab onto that hope and dive past the cut -- if you dare -- to see what Michael and Dave have to share.

Gallery: Origins of Malu

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AIburning-dogburning-dog-mediacharacter-customiationcraftingdave-cruikshankduelingduelseconomyexclusivefactionsfantasyfeaturedharvestinghousinginterviewmassively-exclusive-interviewsmichael-dunhamnew-titlesoriginsOrigins of Maluorigins-mmoOrigins-of-MaluOriginsOfMalupermadeathpvpsandboxsandbox-mmosci-fiscifisome-assembly-requiredFri, 16 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Origins sandbox MMO wants your creature concepts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/new-origins-sandbox-mmo-wants-your-creature-concepts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/new-origins-sandbox-mmo-wants-your-creature-concepts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/new-origins-sandbox-mmo-wants-your-creature-concepts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Origins - concept art
There's a new indie sandbox in town -- or at least in development -- and the team at Origins is looking for a few good fan submissions to help them populate the game. Actually the devs are looking for one good submission, but that didn't have quite the same ring to it. Anyway, the Origins website was recently updated with a new Create a Monster contest, and the lucky winner will get to see his design incorporated into the gameworld (and the lore) of Burning Dog's upcoming MMORPG.

Submissions should be in the form of artwork, images, or text, and are limited to a single entry per person. You'll also need to like Origins on Facebook or follow the game's Twitter feed prior to submitting your work. The contest is currently accepting entries and it runs through September 14th, so don't delay if you think you've got what it takes to make your MMO mob concepts a reality.

MassivelyNew Origins sandbox MMO wants your creature concepts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burning-dogburning-dog-mediacontestcontestscreate-a-monsterfacebookfantasyin-developmentoriginsorigins-mmoorigins-of-malusandboxsci-fitwitterMon, 15 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Origins website hints at lofty sandbox goals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/origins-website-hints-at-lofty-sandbox-goals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/origins-website-hints-at-lofty-sandbox-goals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/origins-website-hints-at-lofty-sandbox-goals/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Origins
"Let's face it. MMO companies have found a cookie cutter formula," boasts the new Origins website. "It's time for something new." That something is a sandbox title shrouded in a fair bit of secrecy but bold enough to make some lofty claims as to its genre-changing design.

The title is the brainchild of Burning Dog Media, a Canadian development firm founded by Michael Dunham and Dave Cruikshank. While specific gameplay details are left to our fertile imaginations, the newly revealed website does hint at a feature set downloaded directly from the minds of starving sandbox fans everywhere. No classes? Check. The ability to change the game world? Check. A conspicuous lack of scripted boss fights? Check. And would you believe mob AI that stalks players over a period of several days, waiting for the right time to attack?

The world itself seems to be a mixture of fantasy and sci-fi, and the Origins website contains its share of screenshots, concept art, and bestiary info.

[Thanks to James for the tip!]

MassivelyOrigins website hints at lofty sandbox goals originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiburning-dog-mediadave-cruikshankfantasyfreedommichael-dunhammmo-industrymob-ainew-titlesno-classesoriginsorigins-mmoorigins-of-maluplayer-freedomsandboxsci-fiWed, 10 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: A closer look at Update 2's troublesome trio]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/09/alter-ego-a-closer-look-at-update-2s-troublesome-trio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/09/alter-ego-a-closer-look-at-update-2s-troublesome-trio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/09/alter-ego-a-closer-look-at-update-2s-troublesome-trio/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

One of the best things about playing DC Universe Online, in my opinion, is the great deal of rich history there is for all the characters. There is also the fact that the iconic DC characters aren't just relegated to the shelves of your local comic book store. Even if you're not the biggest comic nerd on the face of the planet, you've undoubtedly seen at least a few of the iconic characters from the DC universe like Superman or Batman in cartoons on television or at the movies.

With Update 2 now live in DC Universe Online, three more names have joined the ever-growing list of in-game characters who have crossed from popular culture into the online world. The Penguin and Two-Face are busy scheming over the future of Gotham, while Mister Mxyzptlk has taken to the streets of Metropolis to play his strange tricks. This week, I thought it would be fun to look a little deeper into the origin stories of the troublesome trio, as the same popular culture that makes these three characters recognizable may also cause some confusion when you run up against the in-game versions -- and their current motives. I should also note, lest the continuity fiends jump on me for it, that these origins are sourced directly from the DC Universe site.

Continue reading Alter-Ego: A closer look at Update 2's troublesome trio

MassivelyAlter-Ego: A closer look at Update 2's troublesome trio originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 09 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alter-egocomic-bookscomicscontinuitydc-universe-onlinedc-universe-online-legendsdcuodcuo-update-2featuredharvey-dentharvey-kentloreMister-Mxyzptlkmr-mxyzptlkmxyorigin-storiesoriginsoswald-cobblepotretconsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-penguintwo-faceupdate-2Sat, 09 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Updated: Win a City of Heroes Origins Booster Pack!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/win-a-city-of-heroes-origins-booster-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/win-a-city-of-heroes-origins-booster-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/win-a-city-of-heroes-origins-booster-pack/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A few weeks ago, the City of Heroes team announced the upcoming Origins Booster Packs. The new capes and origins were "tentatively" set to arrive in the NCsoft store by November 3rd.

It looks like that date was accurate, because the Origins Booster Packs are available as of today for $9.99 each. Nature, science, technology, magic, and mutant packs are for sale, but if your gaming fund is a little nonexistent at the moment, Massively's got you covered!

We have Origins Booster Packs for 10 lucky Massively readers. It couldn't be easier to win; simply take a peek at our contest rules, then leave a comment here telling us which part of the pack is your favorite. We'll choose 10 winners at random from those who comment before 11:59 p.m. EDT on Friday, November 5th.

But wait, there's more! Those of you who simply cannot wait until the drawing can pass the time by watching our Twitter page this afternoon and evening. Yes, that is a hint.

Good luck!

[UPDATED: All 10 winners have been chosen and emailed. Check those inboxes, and congratulations to the winners!]

MassivelyUpdated: Win a City of Heroes Origins Booster Pack! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Nov 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boosterbooster-packcity-of-heroescohcontestcovcoxcrypticgiveawaygiveawaysncsoftncsoft-storeoriginsorigins-booster-packparagon-studiossuperheroWed, 03 Nov 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New DC Universe Online Inside the Studio video answers more questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/new-dc-universe-online-inside-the-studio-video-answers-more-ques/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/new-dc-universe-online-inside-the-studio-video-answers-more-ques/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/new-dc-universe-online-inside-the-studio-video-answers-more-ques/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

One of the things we love about DC Universe Online is the way Game Director Chris Cao and Creative Director Jens Andersen take time out of their undoubtedly busy schedules to answer questions that come in on the DC Universe Online Facebook page. The newest update to their Inside the Studio videos offers up another pile of questions asked by the community, with some amusing results.

From starting areas (Metropolis for metahumans, Gotham for technophiles, China Town for magical-origin characters), to the availability of regular street clothes (short answer: yes), and even questions about anthropomorphic animal heads, Cao and Andersen cover some really interesting ground. Pop by the DC Universe Online Facebook page to check out the full video -- and be sure to leave your questions for the developers while you're there!

MassivelyNew DC Universe Online Inside the Studio video answers more questions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anthropomorphic-animal-headschris-caodcdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuofacebookinside-the-studiojens-andersenoriginspowerssoesony-online-entertainmentsqueaking-one-past-marketingstarting-areastreet-clothingsuper-herovideoFri, 24 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chris Cao talks mentors and progression in DC Universe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/chris-cao-talks-mentors-and-progression-in-dc-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/chris-cao-talks-mentors-and-progression-in-dc-universe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/chris-cao-talks-mentors-and-progression-in-dc-universe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


SOE's Chris Cao has checked in with Gamespot via a video interview that details several different aspects of the upcoming DC Universe Online superhero action MMORPG. Right off the bat, the goal is to immerse the players in the rich history of the license by choosing an established DC Comics superhero as a mentor during character creation. Meta-based heroes might follow Superman, for example, while tech-based players will initially look up to Bruce Wayne's caped crusader alter-ego.

Cao also talks a bit about the game's progression. Every even level you'll advance your powers, first by choosing a base power like fire and then expanding on it as you level. Initially you'll be setting people on fire, then detonating anything that's on fire, followed by the ability to spread fire. "Every other level you'll get to choose more of those types of abilities," Cao says. Every odd level you'll choose skills, which are based on your weapon or your movement style. Skills basically give you combos, whereas powers give you the iconic, superhero-ish abilities you've come to expect in a comic-inspired game.

Check out the video, and the extensive gameplay footage, after the cut.

Continue reading Chris Cao talks mentors and progression in DC Universe

MassivelyChris Cao talks mentors and progression in DC Universe originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-caodc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlineDcUniversedcuniverseonlinedcuodcuo-gameplaydcuo-gameplay-footagegameplay-footagegamespotinterviewmentorsoriginssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentvideoFri, 10 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOrigins: MUD on the tires]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/mmorigins-mud-on-the-tires/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/mmorigins-mud-on-the-tires/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/mmorigins-mud-on-the-tires/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Welcome to MMOrigins, a new weekly series here at Massively where we take a look at what makes us who we are as MMO gamers. Much in the style of our Redefining MMOs series, several members of the Massively team will have their chance to take a look back at their influences, favorite classic games and what got them to where they are today. Then, as we've done before, we'll ask you to compile your own blog posts on the same topic and we'll showcase it for the finale.

So I thought I would kick this new series off with my own influences and origins in gaming and what molded my current enjoyment of MMOs. As anyone who grew up in the 1980s might know, the dawn of personal computer video gaming was an exciting time. With inexpensive hardware such as the Atari 2600 and the Commodore 64 and 128, you didn't have to always get your mom to drive you to the arcade to play some good games.

Continue reading MMOrigins: MUD on the tires

MassivelyMMOrigins: MUD on the tires originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredinfluencesmmoriginsopinionoriginsFri, 06 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Age of Camelot Grab Bag touches on Origins server issue]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/25/dark-age-of-camelot-grab-bag-touches-on-origins-server-issue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/25/dark-age-of-camelot-grab-bag-touches-on-origins-server-issue/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/25/dark-age-of-camelot-grab-bag-touches-on-origins-server-issue/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Just a few days ago we wondered aloud about the absence of the 'Origins' server for Dark Age of Camelot. We linked to a post on MMO Champions that talked about the history of the Origins server (a promised new server returning to the old days of DAoC), but the big question was 'where is it'? While the server was promised months ago and the playerbase seemed very much in favor of the new/old mix, Mythic has been tight-lipped about the possibility of late. Thankfully the recent interest seems to have reminded the developers of that discussion.

This week's edition of the Dark Age of Camelot Grab Bag touched directly on the Origins server ... though perhaps not as informatively as we would have liked. CM Joanne Laroche offered: "I know that many of you are eager to know what the status of the Origins server is and can't wait for an update. I just wanted to let you know that while there isn't any information to share with you right now, I'm pleased to say that there will be in the weeks ahead. As always keep an eye the Herald for the latest news." So, hopefully more news soon on this front. Read through to the Grab Bag as a whole for additional details on everything from Dragonsworn armor to crafting. Forsooth!

MassivelyDark Age of Camelot Grab Bag touches on Origins server issue originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daocdark-age-of-camelotmythic-entertainmentoriginsserverwarhammer-onlineSun, 25 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[So what ever happened to DAoC's Origins server?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/so-what-ever-happened-to-daocs-origins-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/so-what-ever-happened-to-daocs-origins-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/so-what-ever-happened-to-daocs-origins-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


In June of last year, Mythic made an announcement regarding a new server that would be created to reinstate the way Dark Age of Camelot was played around 2001-2002. This new "Origins" server would not exactly replicate the game as it was back then, as it would also incorporate improvements made since then, such as housing, horses, the market explorer, UI changes and more.

Well, the problem arises when we realize that players haven't really heard much about it since then. There was a poll asking players to vote on the idea, an announcement predicting an August/September 2008 launch date, and then another announcement changing a launch date to 'when it's ready'. Now players are getting a bit restless, as it's been six months since that last announcement, with no other news. Speculation has even stemmed from the recent cuts at Mythic, and the fact that most of the company's attentions seems to be with Warhammer Online. So is the Origins idea being scrapped? Is it simply on the backburner as Mythic deals with more pressing issues? We'll be sure to keep you up-to-date on any news we hear regarding this story.

MassivelySo what ever happened to DAoC's Origins server? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daocdark-age-of-cameloteamythicoriginsserverwarhammer-onlineThu, 22 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Raph Koster on the Metaplace idea]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/raph-koster-on-the-metaplace-idea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/raph-koster-on-the-metaplace-idea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/raph-koster-on-the-metaplace-idea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

After a recent question from a Metaplace forum member last month, Raph Koster decided to sit down and explain to us just where exactly the idea for Metaplace was born and how it has evolved into what it is today.

He begins by explaining his MUD roots and how much that influenced him in the multiplayer online space. He explains that he'd had ideas for web-based sandbox worlds ever since then and had frequently toyed with the idea to create his vision, but finances and other limitations restricted that. Now that he has the resources, this vision he's had for so long can finally be put into action with a team of professionals, instead of just him working on it in his spare bedroom. It's an inspiring little story and certainly worth a read if you're interested in Raph's work or the potential future of MMOs in general.

MassivelyRaph Koster on the Metaplace idea originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>areaebeginningsbrowser-basedmetaplaceoriginsraph-kostersandboxFri, 05 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New artwork from Champions Online reveals character origins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/new-artwork-from-champions-online-reveals-character-origins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/new-artwork-from-champions-online-reveals-character-origins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/new-artwork-from-champions-online-reveals-character-origins/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Cryptic Studios continues to reveal more of the world of Champions Online and tease us all with intriguing story elements for its more prominent superbeings. Included in this new series of images are comic book-style, wordless origin stories of Defender, Doctor Destroyer, Ironclad, Justiciar, and Menton.

The sheer amount of information Cryptic is willing to share with its fans is heartening, especially since it's likely that we won't even see the launch until next year. Expect more content to come, including video of Jack Emmert discussing the Champions IP and how it differs from City of Heroes.

Gallery: Champions Online Main Gallery

MassivelyNew artwork from Champions Online reveals character origins originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artworkbreakingchampions-onlinecity-of-heroescryptic-studiosdefenderdoctor-destroyerfeaturedironcladjack-emmertjoystiqfeaturesjusticiarmentonoriginsscreenshotsFri, 11 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DAoC turns old school with their new Origins server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/daoc-turns-old-school-with-their-new-origins-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/daoc-turns-old-school-with-their-new-origins-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/daoc-turns-old-school-with-their-new-origins-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

After some recent hints distributed throughout the community, and a poll asking players their opinion on the matter, EA Mythic has decided to go ahead with their newest Origins project. This will introduce players to a blast from the past on a separate "Old Frontiers" server that will use the original rulesets from when the game first launched. Of course, certain game improvements will stay, so it won't be exactly as it was back then, but they're trying this out to see how well it is received by the community.

If you have any questions about how this will work exactly, there are some comprehensive resources posted in FAQ form, and on several forums. Plus, the team will be participating in a live IRC Q&A on Wednesday, June 4th and Thursday, June 5th. One will be held at 6:30 pm EDT for the benefit of their East Coast players, and the other will be held at 9:30 pm EDT for the West Coast players.

MassivelyDAoC turns old school with their new Origins server originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelot-heraldchristopher-rabideaudaocdark-age-of-camelotea-mythicold-frontiersoriginsTue, 03 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online tours America, unites people]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/warhammer-online-makes-like-jack-kerouac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/warhammer-online-makes-like-jack-kerouac/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/warhammer-online-makes-like-jack-kerouac/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's not stating the situation too excessively to remark that people are excited about this game. Many are anticipating it with the same fervor mustered by religious zealots. Some use the phrase 'WoW Killer'. And all of this without even having played the thing at all.

Well, there's news that might mitigate that last little bit: If you can't wait for the eventual open beta download, you can play WAR at a few events across the country! The list of events, with locations and dates, after the jump!

Continue reading Warhammer Online tours America, unites people

MassivelyWarhammer Online tours America, unites people originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Apr 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsgames-daysgames-workshopgen-con-indynew-york-comic-conoriginsPAXpenny-arcade-exporealm-vs-realmwarhammer-onlineFri, 18 Apr 2008 10:00:00 EST