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[Guild Wars PAX Panel video released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/guild-wars-pax-panel-video-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/guild-wars-pax-panel-video-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/guild-wars-pax-panel-video-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


If you missed this year's Penny Arcade Expo, or you simply didn't get a chance to attend the packed ArenaNet panel entitled "Three Years of Guild Wars", now you can watch the video of the entire discussion from the comfort of your own computer chair.

You can download the full high quality, 51-minute video from the Guild Wars website, or watch it in six parts on the official ArenaNet Youtube channel. Either way, you'll get to see a fantastic Q&A session with ArenaNet's James Phinney (Lead Game Designer), Ree Soesbee (Game Designer), Jeff Grubb (Game Designer), Chris Lye (Director of Marketing), Katy Hargrove (Artist), and Katy Perry (Artist). This discussion panel includes the information on the series of Guild Wars books to be released before Guild Wars 2, as first reported by Massively during PAX08. Check out the entire video for some incredible information on the history of the game from the developers themselves.

MassivelyGuild Wars PAX Panel video released originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetdiscussionguild-warsguild-wars-2panelpaxpax-08pax-2008penny-arcade-expovideoSat, 11 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New details surface about EVE's 'Walking in Stations' expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/new-details-surface-about-eves-walking-in-stations-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/new-details-surface-about-eves-walking-in-stations-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/08/new-details-surface-about-eves-walking-in-stations-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


Ambulation, or 'Walking in Stations' as it now seems to be known, is a hotly anticipated feature coming to EVE Online. It represents the first effort by CCP Games to add a more interactive dimension to the game, where players will finally be able to step out of their ships to socialize, play games, and ... modify one another's bodies? Apparently so.

While some information about Walking in Stations is already known, EVE Stratics recently turned up more details. Trish "Seridove" Bennon and Michael "Solace" Lutes recently got some face time at PAX 2008 with CCP Games devs Jeremy Albert (Associate Producer) and Noah Ward (Lead Game Designer, aka CCP Hammerhead) who talked about aspects of the expansion.

Continue reading New details surface about EVE's 'Walking in Stations' expansion

MassivelyNew details surface about EVE's 'Walking in Stations' expansion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambulationbarsbody-modificationccp-gamesccp-hammerheadcharacter-creationconversation-treeseconomyeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2008eve-onlineeve-straticsexpansionsfanfestgame-mechanicsicelandinterviewsmini-gamesnoah-wardpax-2008plastic-surgerypromenaderaceswalking-in-stationsMon, 08 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SI Radio hooks up with CoX's Back Alley Brawler]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/si-radio-hooks-up-with-coxs-back-alley-brawler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/si-radio-hooks-up-with-coxs-back-alley-brawler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/06/si-radio-hooks-up-with-coxs-back-alley-brawler/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With the initial wave of discussion following the announcement of City of Heroes Issue 13: Architect beginning to die down, SI Radio pokes the fire with an interview from PAX. In the spotlight is Back Alley Brawler, aka CoX Senior Animator Christopher Bruce. The interview's not all that long, but fortunately interviewer Chris 'Chaotica' Carkner is on the ball and asks pertinent questions.

BaB ends forum speculation by explaining what Pain Domination will entail. This set, the villainous counterpart of the heroes' Empathy, is being tailored specifically in order to offer parallel benefits in zone PvP to what Empathy offers. It has long been a complaint of villains that they don't have anything comparable to Empathy's buffs when fighting in the level 20-30 PvP zone Siren's Call. Since it's received wisdom in some quarters that the developers not only hate PvP but hate Villains, we wonder what impact this latest announcement will have.

Continue reading SI Radio hooks up with CoX's Back Alley Brawler

MassivelySI Radio hooks up with CoX's Back Alley Brawler originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-alley-brawlerchristopher-brucecity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxinterviewncsoftpax-2008split-infinity-radioSat, 06 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Joystiq sets its sights on MMO newbies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/pax08-joystiq-sets-its-sights-on-mmo-newbies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/pax08-joystiq-sets-its-sights-on-mmo-newbies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/pax08-joystiq-sets-its-sights-on-mmo-newbies/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Our sister site Joystiq sent an MMO newbie to wade through the crowds surrounding the PAX08 booths of two upcoming MMOs. One of those titles was Warhammer Online and the other was Aion. The goal was to spend some time with each game, talk to the developers and see which title appealed more to an uninitiated MMO player. The results? Well, take a look for yourself.

It's hard to spend a short amount of time with any game and draw a conclusion of some sort, especially an MMO. Even still, Initial impressions are just as important as long-term ones. Each of the two games chosen definitely give off an immediately different vibe. Most eastern MMOs from NCsoft tend to focus on the established crowd more than new players and Aion isn't an exception. Wheras Warhammer Online is doing more to appeal to a group of players who's first MMO was, well, World of Warcraft. So, as a newbie to the genre it's not hard to see where one might go.

MassivelyPAX08: Joystiq sets its sights on MMO newbies originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aioneaelectronic-artsjoystiqmythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftnewbiepax-2008warwarhammer-onlineFri, 05 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Aion videos give aerial tour of environments and classes in action]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/new-aion-videos-give-aerial-tour-of-environments-and-classes-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/new-aion-videos-give-aerial-tour-of-environments-and-classes-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/new-aion-videos-give-aerial-tour-of-environments-and-classes-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Flight in MMOs is often focused on having mounts that let you take to the skies. NCsoft's latest twist on this idea is to give players their own pair of wings in Aion: The Tower of Eternity, which Massively recently got to see at PAX. So far we've seen a video showing off the character customization in Aion and a bit about the game's lore as well. NCsoft is steadily releasing more video footage of the new title though, most of which shows off some gorgeous graphics.

Our friends over at BigDownload are offering up two new Aion videos. One gives a soaring aerial tour of the game's environment an the other is a breakdown of the available classes, showing each of them in action. Check out the footage of both videos below the cut, as well as the links for BigDownload's HD versions.

Continue reading New Aion videos give aerial tour of environments and classes in action

MassivelyNew Aion videos give aerial tour of environments and classes in action originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbig-downloadcharacter-customizationclassescustomizationdownloadenvironmentfantasyflighthdlorencsoftpaxpax-2008previewsracesvideoThu, 04 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Interview with Dane Caruthers of Tabula Rasa]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/pax08-interview-with-dane-caruthers-of-tabula-rasa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/pax08-interview-with-dane-caruthers-of-tabula-rasa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/pax08-interview-with-dane-caruthers-of-tabula-rasa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


At PAX08, we were able to catch up with NCsoft's Dane Caruthers, the Associate Producer for Tabula Rasa, for a quick interview. While the TR booth was busy and Caruthers was swamped with showing attendees all about the sci-fi MMO, he was kind enough to answer a few questions.

With Deployment 12 now on the Public Test Server, Caruthers talks a bit about what to expect with Deployment 13 and how it should make many Tabula Rasa players very happy. He also goes on to explain a bit about the recent contests they've been holding, including an explanation of Operation Immortality. Plus, Caruthers talks candidly about Tabula Rasa's beta through to its launch, and despite the fact that he says it was "quite possibly the smoothest MMO launch in history", they realize the mistakes that were made and are confident that the product they have to offer currently will win back those who tried the game and have since left.

Check out a transcript of the entire interview after the cut.

Continue reading PAX08: Interview with Dane Caruthers of Tabula Rasa

MassivelyPAX08: Interview with Dane Caruthers of Tabula Rasa originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dane-caruthersfeaturedinterviewjoystiqfeaturesncsoftpax-08pax-2008penny-arcade-expotabula-rasatr-deployment-12tr-deployment-13Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: GamerDNA interview focuses on subscription numbers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/pax08-gamerdna-interview-focuses-on-subscription-numbers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/pax08-gamerdna-interview-focuses-on-subscription-numbers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/pax08-gamerdna-interview-focuses-on-subscription-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

During our time at PAX08 this year, we got together with Jon Radoff, Founder and CEO of GamerDNA, a company that focuses on the community aspect of today's online games. Radoff was kind enough to give us an overview of what the company is about and how it pertains to the ever-growing MMO market. Originally this rough audio was meant for notes only, but it came out fairly well, so we thought we'd go ahead and post it for all to hear themselves.

So in this audio interview that you'll find enclosed below, Radoff explains something that we found quite peculiar. "Interestingly, a high percentage of those people who quit Age of Conan didn't go back to WoW, they actually just went off MMORPGs in general," he explains. This is the type of number-crunching that they do at GamerDNA to discover not only subscription numbers and box sales, but who is actually playing what, and how dedicated they are to their games. We encourage you to learn more about this truly unique company at their website, and be sure to listen to the complete interview below.

MassivelyPAX08: GamerDNA interview focuses on subscription numbers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredgamerdnaguildcafeinterviewjon-radoffjoystiqfeaturespax-08pax-2008Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:00:00 ESTPAX 08 GamerDNA InterviewShawn Schusterinterview<![CDATA[PAX08: Twin Skies interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/pax08-twin-skies-interview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/pax08-twin-skies-interview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/pax08-twin-skies-interview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Twin Skies is a brand new MMO still in development from Meteor Games, which is fronted by two of the co-founders of the wildly-successful Neopets. Despite the fact that Twin Skies is still in its early stages, their presence at PAX08 seemed to be well-received by gamers. This was the first public showing of the MMO that was only first announced a month ago from a company that was introduced to us only two months ago!

So we took this opportunity to sit down with the CEO Adam Powell and Lead Designer Aaron Matthew for a bit of an exclusive look at what this game is all about. Despite the fact that the surrounding PAX booths were competing for attention all around us, we were able to get some great information on this upcoming game.

Follow along on our exclusive tour of Twin Skies>>

MassivelyPAX08: Twin Skies interview originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browser-basedfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesmeteor-gamespax-08pax-2008penny-arcade-expotwin-skiesWed, 03 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The BigCast @PAX08 Special: Warhammer Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/the-bigcast-pax08-special-warhammer-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/the-bigcast-pax08-special-warhammer-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/the-bigcast-pax08-special-warhammer-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Massively's sister site Big Download has a very special podcast with Jeff Hickman, Paul Barnett and Josh Drescher from Warhammer Online. Of course, you probably don't need us to tell you that these fellows made for a very interesting podcast, but what you do need to know is that this edition of the BigCast is very NSFW, so it may be wise to wear some headphones. As it happens, there isn't much talk about Warhammer Online. Instead, you'll hear a lot Mr. Barnett asking everyone questions and the ever-informative Josh Drescher pitch a very wonderful radio ad for Bacon Salt -- because everything should taste like bacon.

As someone who was a part of this endeavour into the unknowns of German hotels, taxis and of course, Bacon Salt, this blogger can tell you it was a wild ride that you won't be remiss for listening in on.

MassivelyThe BigCast @PAX08 Special: Warhammer Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bacon-saltbig-downloadbigcastjeff-hickmanjosh-drescherkyle-hornermythicmythic-entertainmentpaul-barnettpax-2008podcastwarwarhammer-onlinexav-de-matosWed, 03 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Aion's first U.S. public showing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/pax08-aions-first-US-public-showing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/pax08-aions-first-US-public-showing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/pax08-aions-first-US-public-showing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


"Hey, isn't that the game where you have wings and fly around?"

This was probably the number one quote heard around the Aion booth at PAX08. NCsoft's Aion: The Tower of Eternity had its first public showing in the States this last weekend at PAX, and the general consensus seemed to be mostly positive. As the opening quote suggests though, many gamers were after that novelty of flight, and we can't help but wonder if that will be enough to carry potential players through the game for the long haul.

So we took this opportunity to spend an hour or so with the game, to get a few of those precious first impressions for our readers. Keep in mind that this is only first impressions on a game that isn't finished yet, so take it with a grain of salt.

Gallery: Aion Screenshots

Continue reading PAX08: Aion's first U.S. public showing

MassivelyPAX08: Aion's first U.S. public showing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-tower-of-eternityfeaturedflyingjoystiqfeaturesncsoftpax-08pax-2008penny-arcade-expowingsWed, 03 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Hands-on with Mines of Moria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hands-on-with-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hands-on-with-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hands-on-with-mines-of-moria/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,


This weekend at PAX 2008, Massively had the opportunity to be a part of the first-ever public preview of Mines of Moria with Lord of the Rings Online Executive Producer Jeffrey Steefel. During this showing, Steefel showed us many of the main features of this first expansion for LotRO, including the Legendary Weapon system, the two new classes, the vastness of the mines themselves and much more.

The overall impression we got from this presentation was that this expansion is going to be epic. Just the sheer size of the world, which includes the mines themselves, more of Eregion and into Lothlorien, will be immense. This, combined with the game mechanic changes and additions to just about every aspect of gameplay, will speak volumes (pun!) about the potential of Turbine with this franchise.

Follow along on our journey through Moria>>

Gallery: PAX08: Mines of Moria Preview

Moria mapInside the Great DelvingFighting a MorrovalThe Great Delving mapForging a Legendary weapon

MassivelyPAX08: Hands-on with Mines of Moria originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredjeffrey-steefeljoystiqfeatureslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriapax-08pax-2008turbineTue, 02 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Hermann Peterscheck interviewed on all things Jumpgate Evolution, page two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hermann-peterscheck-interviewed-on-all-things-jumpgate-p2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hermann-peterscheck-interviewed-on-all-things-jumpgate-p2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hermann-peterscheck-interviewed-on-all-things-jumpgate-p2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Continue reading PAX08: Hermann Peterscheck interviewed on all things Jumpgate Evolution, page two

MassivelyPAX08: Hermann Peterscheck interviewed on all things Jumpgate Evolution, page two originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticahermann-peterscheckjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilpax-2008sci-fispaceTue, 02 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Hermann Peterscheck interviewed on all things Jumpgate Evolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hermann-peterscheck-interviewed-on-all-things-jumpgate-ev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hermann-peterscheck-interviewed-on-all-things-jumpgate-ev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/pax08-hermann-peterscheck-interviewed-on-all-things-jumpgate-ev/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


On the last day of PAX08 we stopped by the Jumpgate Evolution booth, which was full of people with glazed-over eyes as they blasted away at enemy ships in space. After some time with the game, we sat down with the NetDevil producer Hermann Peterscheck. In-between our questions and his answers we also got to watch him blow up some space pirates, fly through a huge asteroid and battle above a super-volcanic planet with chunks of land -- that had a city on it -- floating in orbit around the planet. It was a lengthy look at a game that's already come a long way and is still showing some real promise, too.

Gallery: Jumpgate Evolution Gallery

Continue reading PAX08: Hermann Peterscheck interviewed on all things Jumpgate Evolution

MassivelyPAX08: Hermann Peterscheck interviewed on all things Jumpgate Evolution originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bombercourierfeaturedfighterhaulerhermann-peterscheckjgejoystiqfeaturesjumpgate-evolutionnetdevilpax-2008spaceTue, 02 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Seen@PAX08: Cryptic's Champions book treasure trove]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/seen-pax08-cryptics-champions-book-treasure-trove/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/seen-pax08-cryptics-champions-book-treasure-trove/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/seen-pax08-cryptics-champions-book-treasure-trove/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


While Champions Online was being shown at PAX08, we discovered something on the other side of the booth. It was a treasure trove of the tabletop books that the game is based on. When we say treasure trove, we really mean it, too. The amount and variety of books being sold was no less than astounding. Plus, the president of Hero Games was there to answer any questions or concerns regarding the books. We even got some tips on which of the books to start with for anyone interested in the game because of Champions Online. Also, we found out which book contains all your required Foxbat information, so that we can continue to worship him as one of the greatest villains of all time.

Gallery: PAX 2008 General Gallery

MassivelySeen@PAX08: Cryptic's Champions book treasure trove originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiospax-2008penny-arcadeMon, 01 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Talking with Champions Online's content lead, Zeke Sparkes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-talking-with-champions-onlines-content-lead-zeke-sparke/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-talking-with-champions-onlines-content-lead-zeke-sparke/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-talking-with-champions-onlines-content-lead-zeke-sparke/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


After speaking with John Layman at PAX08, our second Champions Online interview was with content lead Zeke Sparkes. We talked sound effects, travel powers, character creation, controls and zone creation among other things. In fact, we actually got a short period of hands-on time with the game prior to the interview.

So far, Champions Online had only been playable with the Xbox 360 controller, but we were able to finally try the keyboard and mouse controls at PAX. Instead of hitting a face button on the Xbox controller to do your basic attack, you tap an assigned number-key on your keyboard. As you do this, you build up energy and can move through the rest of the powers, which for us were set to the rest of the numbered keys. Overall, the keyboard and mouse controls feel tight and responsive for a game scheduled to launch in Spring of 2009.

Continue reading PAX08: Talking with Champions Online's content lead, Zeke Sparkes

MassivelyPAX08: Talking with Champions Online's content lead, Zeke Sparkes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinecharacter-creationcrypticcryptic-onlinefeaturedjack-emmertjohn-laymanjoystiqfeaturespax-08pax-2008pax08pcpenny-arcadesound-effectstravel-powersxbox-360zeke-sparkeszonesMon, 01 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Interviewing Champion Online's writer, John Layman]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-interviewing-champion-onlines-writer-john-layman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-interviewing-champion-onlines-writer-john-layman/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-interviewing-champion-onlines-writer-john-layman/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Amidst the rather large -- but also surprisingly polite -- crowd surrounding the Cryptic Studios booth, we were able to talk with the writer for Champions Online, John Layman. Discussions revolved around the breadth and depth of content within the game's zones and the possibilities of space-based zones lying in wait for higher level characters. Two words to get you excited: interplanetary threats. We also learned about John's fondness for sprinkling lots of homages throughout the game. Overall, it was a fun trip into the mind of a man who really loves zombies, pajamas and nerdy in-jokes that future players of Champions Online will be able to find some humor from.

Gallery: PAX 2008 General Gallery

Continue reading PAX08: Interviewing Champion Online's writer, John Layman

MassivelyPAX08: Interviewing Champion Online's writer, John Layman originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinecrusoecrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedgreen-lanternhank-crusoejack-emmertjohn-laymanjoystiqfeaturesmagicmutantspax-2008technologicalMon, 01 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Day three impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-day-three-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-day-three-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-day-three-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Day three is now behind us, marking the end of PAX 2008. Sunday showed a crowd of gamers just as strong as the first two days, and there is no doubt that the attendance numbers from this year blew away last year's figures. As far as panels for this last day, there was an interesting mix of MMO development-type panels with a particularly interesting one called "MMO and Virtual World Business Models" that we will be reviewing in more depth later. Plus, who could forget the intriguing "How to Get Your Girlfriend into Gaming" panel?

So now we look forward to the future of this mega expo. If next year's PAX grows as much as the previous years have progressed, they're going to need a larger booth floor, no doubt about it. As this blogger sifts through the bags of free swag and begins the recovery process, you can look forward to more coverage of interviews with Jon Radoff of GamerDNA, Jeffrey Steefel of Turbine on Mines of Moria, Dane Caruthers of NCsoft on Tabula Rasa, Adam Powell and Aaron Matthew of Meteor Games on Twin Skies and much much more!

Gallery: PAX 2008 General Gallery

MassivelyPAX08: Day three impressions originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamerdnajeffrey-steefelmeteor-gamesmines-of-moriancsoftpanelspax-08pax-2008penny-arcade-expotabula-rasatwin-skiesMon, 01 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: WAR's Jeff Hickman on patches, open beta and content rumors]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-wars-jeff-hickman-on-patches-open-beta-and-content-rumo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-wars-jeff-hickman-on-patches-open-beta-and-content-rumo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/pax08-wars-jeff-hickman-on-patches-open-beta-and-content-rumo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


After our interview with both Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman at PAX08, we talked some more with Jeff about various subjects regarding the upcoming open beta and subsequent launch of Warhammer Online. It was a incredibly casual and open discussion on topics that are usually met with fiery bile depending on what part of the internet you happen to be at any given moment. One particular question we asked revolved around the choice to limit players in the open beta to level 20 out of the 40 total in the game. The move has of course spawned some skeptics of the existence of higher level content. Find out exactly what Jeff had to say about that below the cut.

Gallery: PAX 2008 General Gallery

Continue reading PAX08: WAR's Jeff Hickman on patches, open beta and content rumors

MassivelyPAX08: WAR's Jeff Hickman on patches, open beta and content rumors originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Continue reading PAX08: WAR's Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman interviewed, page three

MassivelyPAX08: WAR's Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman interviewed, page three originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Continue reading PAX08: WAR's Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman interviewed, page two

MassivelyPAX08: WAR's Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman interviewed, page two originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsgreenskinsmythicmythic-entertainmentpax-2008pax08the-digital-continuumwarwarhammer-onlineMon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[G4TV interviews Jumpgate Evolution dev, exhibits lots of footage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/g4tv-interviews-jumpgate-evolution-dev-exhibits-lots-of-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/g4tv-interviews-jumpgate-evolution-dev-exhibits-lots-of-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/g4tv-interviews-jumpgate-evolution-dev-exhibits-lots-of-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

G4TV interviewed Publishing Producer Michael Rowland about Jumpgate Evolution at PAX this weekend. You can watch the video of the interview right now. Mixed in with the questions and answers are a lot of gameplay video clips.

The clips are the most attractive part of the video, but the interview is helpful too. Rowland suggested that the combat has a "more FPS feel" than the "turn-based" combat of other MMOs. He also said that players will be able to level up just by engaging in PvP with opposing factions. There will be three factions in all when the game launches next Spring.

Most of that information can be found at the Jumpgate Evolution website, but check out the video for the gameplay clips. Just try not to be too annoyed by Adam Sessler. Of course the game was actually playable on the floor at PAX. Bet you're sad you missed out on that!

MassivelyG4TV interviews Jumpgate Evolution dev, exhibits lots of footage originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Aug 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-sesslercombatfactionsfpsg4tvinterviewjumpgatejumpgate-evolutionmichael-rowlandpaxpax-2008pvpvideoSun, 31 Aug 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joe Morrissey reveals more details of CoX Mission Architect]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/joe-morrissey-reveals-more-details-of-cox-mission-architect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/joe-morrissey-reveals-more-details-of-cox-mission-architect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/joe-morrissey-reveals-more-details-of-cox-mission-architect/#commentsFiled under: , ,

One of the most eagerly anticipated features of City of Heroes Issue 13: Architect is the Mission Maker, which will let players build their own story arcs for others to play through. There's been a torrent of speculation about what we will and won't be able to do. Now, lead CoX writer Joe 'Hero 1' Morrissey has given a brief question and answer session live from PAX, via the CoX Test Server.

Arriving in character as 'the Honoree', Joe proceeded to answer selected questions from the storm that followed his appearance, mostly in clipped Rikti dialect. An in-the-flesh presentation at PAX filled in some additional information. We were pleased to see that missions will indeed be more sophisticated than just radio missions with new text. Players will be 'able to customize existing heroes, villains and enemy groups with a dozen or so options, if not more at launch.' It will also be possible to include Archvillains and Heroes, though some of this content might need to be unlocked.

Continue reading Joe Morrissey reveals more details of CoX Mission Architect

MassivelyJoe Morrissey reveals more details of CoX Mission Architect originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architectcohcovcoxcox-issue-13hero-1joe-morrisseymission-makerncsoftpax-2008Sun, 31 Aug 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 lore to be told in book series]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/guild-wars-2-lore-to-be-told-in-book-series/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/guild-wars-2-lore-to-be-told-in-book-series/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/guild-wars-2-lore-to-be-told-in-book-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


At the Penny Arcade Expo yesterday afternoon, ArenaNet played host to a jam-packed Raven Theater within the Washington Convention Center for their panel entitled "Three Years of Guild Wars" where attendees were treated to the history of the game and an open Q&A session regarding the current and future state of the game.

Yet possibly even more exciting was a small tidbit of news we got from Chris Lye, ArenaNet's Director of Marketing, regarding Guild Wars 2. The team is working with Pocket Books (a division of Simon & Schuster) for a three-book series that will fill in the lore gaps within the 250-year period between Guild Wars and Guild Wars 2. Stay tuned to Massively for more on this series and any other Guild Wars 2 news we may uncover.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 lore to be told in book series originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Aug 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetbreakingnewsguild-wars-2ncsoftpax-08pax-2008pocket-bookssimon-and-schusterSun, 31 Aug 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: WAR's Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman interviewed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/pax08-wars-paul-barnett-and-jeff-hickman-interviewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/pax08-wars-paul-barnett-and-jeff-hickman-interviewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/pax08-wars-paul-barnett-and-jeff-hickman-interviewed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


On the first day of PAX08, we sat down with Mythic Entertainment's Jeff Hickman and Paul Barnett to discuss several different topics concerning Warhammer Online. We've covered the game very extensively to put it lightly, so for this go-around our goal was to mix things up a bit for the dynamic duo of Jeff and Paul. (Josh Drescher was there, but he was embroiled in a deep discussion about Bacon Salt and its many uses) Let's just say we got some interesting comments about Vampire Counts and Tomb Kings. So, amidst the constant murmuring of the exhibition hall, we recorded the following interview for your listening pleasure.

Continue reading PAX08: WAR's Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman interviewed

MassivelyPAX08: WAR's Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman interviewed originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The second, and arguably largest day of PAX 2008 is behind us, and we thought we'd get you up to speed on our ongoing expo impressions. Saturday was packed with some exciting panels from the MMO developer community, such as one accurately called "NCsoft is kicking @r$e at PAX!" This panel was all about the many games published and developed by NCsoft, including the much-anticipated Aion, new exclusive info for the City of Heroes franchise and more chances for players to get their DNA into space with Tabula Rasa's Operation Immortality.

Later in the day there was an exclusive showing of Warhammer Online in a more "closed" setting where Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman showcased the features of the game. Then there was an ArenaNet panel that ended up being a full house with an endless line waiting to get in almost an hour before it began. This panel was especially exciting to this blogger as the ArenaNet devs ran down a history of Guild Wars over the past three years, and told us a tiny bit of info on Guild Wars 2 that we'll be reporting on later. Check out the still-growing gallery below and stay glued to Massively for more of this weekend's PAX 2008 coverage.

Gallery: PAX 2008 General Gallery

MassivelyPAX08: Day two impressions originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Aug 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenaneteventsguild-wars-2ncsoftpax-08pax-2008penny-arcade-expowarhammer-onlineSun, 31 Aug 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Seen@PAX08: Warhammer Online team going all out]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/seen-pax08-warhammer-online-team-going-all-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/seen-pax08-warhammer-online-team-going-all-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/seen-pax08-warhammer-online-team-going-all-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


We've spent a lot of time stomping around the exhibition hall at PAX this year and there are plenty of sights to see. One constant of the show floor was the never-wavering, always-happy-to-see-you team at the Warhammer Online booth. They also liked to make strange "w" signs with their hands at us. We think it's probably some east-coaster thing or maybe a esoteric European gang sign. It could've also been related to Warhammer Online, but that's probably unlikely.

This was the first year that Paul Barnett, Jeff Hickman and Josh Drescher were there to answer questions, chat with fans and generally be cool, approachable guys. While hanging around the booth after our (soon to be available) interview with Jeff and Paul, we lost count of how many times they posed for pictures, signed things, repeatedly discussed issues, or just generally made themselves available for poking and prodding throughout the day.

Gallery: PAX 2008 General Gallery

MassivelySeen@PAX08: Warhammer Online team going all out originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeff-hickmanjosh-dreschermythicmythic-entertainmentpaul-barnettpax-08pax-2008pax08warwarhammer-onlineSun, 31 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: Day One Impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/30/pax08-day-one-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/30/pax08-day-one-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/30/pax08-day-one-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The first day of the Penny Arcade Expo is behind us and we have a few tidbits to report for those who weren't able to attend. In the MMO world, the heavy hitters of the show seem to be the usual suspects: Warhammer Online and Wrath of the Lich King. Yet, there were some surprising underdogs shining through to grab the attention of many attendees. One of the largest of these is NCsoft's Aion. With the NCsoft booth occupying some precious real estate in the middle of the exhibition floor, the Aion side of that booth faced the entrance, which worked well in their favor. Even the buzz around the booth and from passersby seemed very positive during the first ever public hands-on of this fantasy/flight MMO.

Generally, this year's PAX is not only more populated than last year's event, but the booths seem more open, allowing attendees the opportunity to take in more at once. Be sure to check out our ever-growing PAX08 gallery below, and follow along with our ongoing coverage of PAX08 including exclusive interviews and more throughout the weekend into next week.

Gallery: PAX 2008 General Gallery

MassivelyPAX08: Day One Impressions originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 30 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionpax-08pax-2008penny-arcade-expowarwarhammer-onlinewrath-of-the-lich-kingSat, 30 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX08: New features coming to Warhammer Online for the open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/massively-at-pax08-big-war-update-coming-for-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/massively-at-pax08-big-war-update-coming-for-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/29/massively-at-pax08-big-war-update-coming-for-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


While talking to Mythic's Jeff Hickman at PAX08, he mentioned a rather large update coming for the open beta hitting around September 7th (the date of the Open Beta). Some of the content in the upcoming patch includes player vaults, guild vaults, auction house, tons of fun new emotes, and a lot of general effects cleanup. There's even a new Public Quest and standard quest tracker for the user interface. It sounds like Mythic is making a really big push for the launch of the game. So even if you're in the beta now, expect some pleasant surprises once you hit the Open Beta or Live game in just a couple of weeks.

We've got tons more information coming from our time spent with the Warhammer Online guys at PAX08. Keep your eyes peeled for further updates.

MassivelyPAX08: New features coming to Warhammer Online for the open beta originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Today kicks off the Penny Arcade Expo in Seattle, Washington, and we here at Massively are just as excited as you are about the events, booths, panels and concerts involved with this monumental convention. In fact, we'll be at the event all weekend covering the latest and greatest in MMO news, so you can certainly be sure to look for more coverage throughout the weekend and into next week.

So we want to know what you, as players, are most excited about. We want to know what it is that brings you out to this event, or what you want to see covered the most. Is it the unveiling of Lord of the Rings Online's Mines of Moria? Is it any information about Lich King? Is it continued coverage of Warhammer Online? Perhaps it's an Indie title, or the after-parties you're most interested in. Let us know!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What are you most excited about seeing at PAX? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boothsinterviewspanelspaxpax-2008penny-arcade-expothe-daily-grindFri, 29 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guide to the PAX 08 MMO afterparties]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/guide-to-the-pax-08-mmo-afterparties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/guide-to-the-pax-08-mmo-afterparties/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/guide-to-the-pax-08-mmo-afterparties/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This Friday marks the kickoff of the Penny Arcade Expo 2008 in Seattle, Washington. If you're going, you may already have your schedule planned out with which panels you'll attend, which booths you're stopping by and which contests you're going to enter.

However, you may be overlooking the most important part of this entire weekend: the parties! That's right, a few of your favorite developers are throwing their own afterparties where players can mingle with the game developers, community teams and other fans of the game. Leave it to us to compile a comprehensive list of these parties for you all to enjoy. Check after the cut for a detailed list of these top MMO developer parties.

Continue reading Guide to the PAX 08 MMO afterparties

MassivelyGuide to the PAX 08 MMO afterparties originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>after-partyafterpartyarenanetcrypticcryptic-studiosncsoftpax-2008penny-arcade-exposeattleturbineTue, 26 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars announces PAX tournament prizes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/guild-wars-announces-pax-tournament-prizes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/guild-wars-announces-pax-tournament-prizes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/guild-wars-announces-pax-tournament-prizes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With gaming expo season also comes live tournament season to most of these events. During the Penny Arcade Expo's event later this month, ArenaNet plans on continuing their trend of hosting competitive Guild Wars tournaments with some great contests held at the ArenaNet/NCsoft booth, and also at their VIP after-party. As we previously reported, this party will be held at the Gameworks across the street from the Washington State Convention & Trade Center in Seattle.

These contests include a 2v2 tournament and a Rollerbeetle racing tournament. The prizes range from ATI graphics cards, laser mice, gaming keyboards, character slots, bonus unlock packs and more! Head on over to the main GW website for more info on each of these prizes.

MassivelyGuild Wars announces PAX tournament prizes originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetcontestguild-warsncsoftpaxpax-2008penny-arcade-expoprizesrollerbeetletournamentTue, 19 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2008 event schedule released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/pax-2008-event-schedule-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/pax-2008-event-schedule-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/11/pax-2008-event-schedule-released/#commentsFiled under: ,


Gaming convention season is upon us and perhaps one of the largest of these is the Penny Arcade Expo in Seattle, Washington. This being the fifth annual PAX, the turnout promises to already crush the numbers from the previous years combined. In anticipation of the event, every bit of news concerning the attendees and panel information is welcomed with open arms... and giddy screaming.

Yesterday, the PAX folks released their tentative schedule of events in pdf format on their forums. This includes the usual general gaming panels, but also a few interesting ones for MMOs. There's a panel with ArenaNet on three years of Guild Wars, one on NCsoft, one on the MMO and Virtual World business, and many more. Check out the forum announcement containing the pdf link and good luck with the planning!

MassivelyPAX 2008 event schedule released originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetevent-scheduleken-levinencsoftpaxpax-2008penny-arcade-exposcheduleseattleMon, 11 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine announces player gathering at PAX]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/turbine-announces-player-gathering-at-pax/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/turbine-announces-player-gathering-at-pax/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/08/turbine-announces-player-gathering-at-pax/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Now that the Penny Arcade Expo is right around the corner, we're hearing more and more about these after parties held by game developers. First there was the news of ArenaNet's party at Gameworks Seattle, right across the street from the Washington Convention Center, and now we get news of Turbine holding a party at the same location, the night before.

The Turbine party will be from 7pm - 9pm local time on Friday, August 29th, 2008. Those in attendance will include Asheron's Call Producer Crowley, LotRO Executive Producer Nigellian, LotRO: Mines of Moria Producer Eldrad, the enigmatic Marketroid, Community Team members Patience and Frelorn, and more!

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria Gallery

MassivelyTurbine announces player gathering at PAX originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Aug 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>after-partyasherons-callgameworkslotromines-of-moriapaxpax-2008penny-arcadepenny-arcade-exposeattleturbineFri, 08 Aug 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet will not show Guild Wars 2 at PAX]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/arenanet-will-not-show-guild-wars-2-at-pax/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/arenanet-will-not-show-guild-wars-2-at-pax/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/arenanet-will-not-show-guild-wars-2-at-pax/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

It's no secret that Guild Wars 2 is a hot topic among Guild Wars players, so every time the smallest leak of information surfaces, excitement ensues. Yet lately we've heard more and more about how this anticipated sequel is not quite ready for prime time. One example is the announcement earlier this month that there will be no GW2 beta in 2008, as was first estimated. Now we hear that GW2 will not even be shown at PAX in late August.

This bit of news was leaked last week by ArenaNet's new Community Manager Regina Buenaobra. She said it first on the main forums, and then again on her user talk page of the official GW wiki. Despite many of the inevitable negative comments that have erupted in the forums since this was announced, creating an MMO from scratch still takes several years. With recent news of other games opting to release "on time" with minimal content, we can't help but scratch our heads at this type of situation. It's been asked a million times before, but we'll ask it again: would you rather have a partial game released now, or a complete game released later?

MassivelyArenaNet will not show Guild Wars 2 at PAX originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetguild-warsguild-wars-2ncsoftpaxpax-2008penny-arcade-exporegina-buenaobraTue, 29 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic's Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman coming to PAX08]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/mythics-paul-barnett-and-jeff-hickman-coming-to-pax08/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/mythics-paul-barnett-and-jeff-hickman-coming-to-pax08/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/mythics-paul-barnett-and-jeff-hickman-coming-to-pax08/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If you happen to find yourself up in Seattle Washington on August 29th-31st, then you may want to check out the Penny Arcade Expo. Chances are that if you do, you'll be able to find both Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman roaming around the convention halls yammering on about waaagh! and other juicy bits of information. Warhammer Online has always had a good booth presence at PAX but now we'll all get to experience the one-two punch of a Hickman-Barnett combo. If you ask us, that alone is worth the price of admission for any nearby WAR fan. Did we mention juicy info bits?

With this news, Penny Arcade Expo 2008 is shaping up to be a real treat for anyone interested in MMOs. Mythic Entertainment, Electronic Arts, Blizzard, Cryptic Studios, Flying Lab Software and CCP are all going to be there with games and/or content to show off to attendees. So don't miss it if you can go!

MassivelyMythic's Paul Barnett and Jeff Hickman coming to PAX08 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardccpcryptic-studioselectronic-artsflying-lab-softwarejeff-hickmanmythic-entertainmentpaul-barnettpaxpax-2008pax08penny-arcadepenny-arcade-expowarwarhammer-onlineTue, 22 Jul 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft's upcoming summer tour around the Globe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/ncsoft-s-upcoming-summer-tour-around-the-globe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/ncsoft-s-upcoming-summer-tour-around-the-globe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/ncsoft-s-upcoming-summer-tour-around-the-globe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


NCsoft is taking a whirlwind summer tour across the Globe. First stop is in San Diego, California at Comic-Con where games, geeks, and comics will collide on July 23-27. The NCsoft booth (#5920) will feature game stations set up for attendees to play CoX, Exteel, Tabula Rasa and other NCsoft games. Also City of Heroes fanzine artist, Dave Hamann will be present to draw character sketches.

In Europe, during July 29-31 Aion: Tower of Eternity will be playable to western journalists. This will be the first time in a year since the last firsthand look took place. NCsoft Europe is hosting the event at their Brighton England, locale and this is a select press event. However, one of the biggest gaming events is taking place August 20-24 in Leipzig, Germany. NCsoft is headed there and will be present at the Leipzig Games Convention in a big way. Attendants there will find a special surprise in Hall 3 Booth B20, Aion will be setup on several demo kiosks for the public to play, the first time outside South Korea.

Continue reading NCsoft's upcoming summer tour around the Globe

MassivelyNCsoft's upcoming summer tour around the Globe originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionarenanetcity-of-heroescomic-concoxdan-hamanndungeon-runnersexteelguild-warsleipzig games conven...leipzig-germanyLeipzigGamesConven...ncsoftncsoft-europepaxpax-2008penny-arcadeseattletabula-rasaSun, 13 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet to host 2nd annual PAX afterparty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/arenanet-to-host-2nd-annual-pax-afterparty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/arenanet-to-host-2nd-annual-pax-afterparty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/arenanet-to-host-2nd-annual-pax-afterparty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Once again, NCsoft and ArenaNet will be making an appearance at Seattle's Penny Arcade Expo this year. The NCsoft booth (#642) will be packed full goodies during the weekend of August 29th through the 31st, and they will be showing off some of their new and old favorites, including Exteel, Dungeon Runners, Guild Wars, City of Heroes, Tabula Rasa and the brand new Aion.

As they did last year, ArenaNet will be holding contests where participants can win valuable prizes. Developers will also be on hand to meet and greet with the players. Possibly the most exciting news is the fact that ArenaNet will hold another after-party at the Game Works across the street from the Washington State Convention & Trade Center, as they did last year. This is your chance to meet the folks at ArenaNet in a more casual setting and even challenge a few to an arcade game or two!

MassivelyArenaNet to host 2nd annual PAX afterparty originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Started in 1999, Neopets was one of the first kid-friendly online virtual worlds on the web, and is still fantastically popular today. Hoping to bring their success with Neopets into the MMO world, founders Adam Powell and Donna Williams started Meteor Games in 2007 to make a game targeted at a slightly higher age bracket than Neopets. Their still-unnamed MMO, due to be shown at this year's Penny Arcade Expo (PAX), will be a seamless, 3D world with elements drawn from today's top MMOs -- World of Warcraft is specifically mentioned.

Their new game will be a drastic departure from Neopets. Not only will it be a 3D world instead of a collection of minigames, but it won't be free to play. The founders believe they need a subscription in order to produce the highest quality game, but the price will be less than WoW, and there will be an item shop of some sort where new outfits, furniture and other non-unbalancing items may be bought. Meteor Games is also looking into ways to integrate cellphones into their game. Due out in some fashion in 2009, their MMO will enter a market already dominated by Runescape and will be competing directly with SOE's Free Realms, which promises to be free to play and run also on the Playstation 3.

Neopets is famous for its huge amount of content, involvement with players and accessibility. Can Meteor Games grab that same sort of success with a more traditional MMO? CEO Adam Powell explains their strategy in this interview with Gamasutra.

MassivelyNeopets founders announce a new MMO originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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