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[Wings Over Atreia: This little Daeva went to market...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/wings-over-atreia-this-little-daeva-went-to-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/wings-over-atreia-this-little-daeva-went-to-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/wings-over-atreia-this-little-daeva-went-to-market/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia
Milk
Bread
Red Shell Potcrab
Life Leaf
Bulldozer...

You all know the old adage "Never go grocery shopping while hungry," right? It is sound advice for avoiding filling your cart with impulse purchases that might decimate your budget (and your waistline). How many of you have also used the shopping list tactic to try to minimize said impulse purchases? Well, you just might want to put that skill into practice when visiting Aion's BlackCloud Marketplace.

When the BlackCloud Marketplace launched last month, the inventory had pretty slim pickings for a game that needed to make all of its profit from the cash shop. Since all content in Aion is free, we knew more things would appear; it was just a matter of what and when. And even while there was still some trepidation about what items would be introduced over time (how many would play into the whole pay-to-win debate?), Daevas looked forward to new offerings and wondered what would be available next.

Wonder no more! Those little Shugos came in last Wednesday and stocked the marketplace shelves with over 100 new items. Some items were expected, some were not, and some were even clamored for by the masses. To help you construct your shopping list before heading to the store, Wing Over Atreia has perused the aisles for you to find what's new, what's interesting, and what's on special.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: This little Daeva went to market...

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: This little Daeva went to market... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionBlackCloud-Marketplacebonus-itemcash-shopcash-shop-bonuscash-shop-itemsCUBEdecoratingf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfurnishingsfurniturehousingmountsncsoftopinionpet-storagepetsspecial-dealsspecialswings-over-atreiaMon, 14 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: A look forward to Final Fantasy XIV pets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-mog-log-a-look-forward-to-final-fantasy-xiv-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-mog-log-a-look-forward-to-final-fantasy-xiv-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-mog-log-a-look-forward-to-final-fantasy-xiv-pets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Pet classes and I have an odd relationship. I don't generally like them, but I like having them there, and when they're done right, I'm very fond of the option. Final Fantasy XIV currently has a grand total of none of them; we have not even a summoner or beastmaster to call our own, but we've been told that this is all changing in version 2.0. And with November just half a year away, it's time to start thinking about what form these pets are going to take.

Of course, this isn't virgin territory for the game series. Final Fantasy XI featured four different pet classes, which have had differing levels of success over time. And even though Final Fantasy XIV isn't meant to be Final Fantasy XI in a new skin, the game can certainly take some inspiration from its predecessor even while forging a unique legacy. And hey, we've got at least three of the four pets from the previous game in Eorzea at this point. So let's talk about the past set of pets, where we are in the present game, and how those systems might make it into the main game.

Continue reading The Mog Log: A look forward to Final Fantasy XIV pets

MassivelyThe Mog Log: A look forward to Final Fantasy XIV pets originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiescoming-updatesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-version-2.0final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfinal-fantasy-xiv-2.0mog-logopinionpet-classespetssquaresquare-enixsquenixsuggestionsthe-mog-logupdatesversion-2.0Sat, 12 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Design your own robots with upcoming MMO Panzer Pets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/design-your-own-robots-with-upcoming-mmo-panzer-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/design-your-own-robots-with-upcoming-mmo-panzer-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/design-your-own-robots-with-upcoming-mmo-panzer-pets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Panzer Pets image
If you've been desperately hoping for a Pokémon MMO all these years but have been disappointed by Nintendo's unwillingness to release one or let anyone else develop one, you might be interested in upcoming MMO Panzer Pets. Panzer Pets is set in a post-apocalyptic world in which robots have taken over, but robot builders have found a way to build their own pets to fight back. In Panzer Pets, rather than capture creatures, you'll hunt for robot parts and design your own customisable 3-D pet robots.

The game focuses on the exploration opportunities that a post-apocalyptic setting delivers, with a world filled with randomly generated zones, dungeons and towns to explore, and robot parts to collect. Players will be able to trade parts with each other, challenge other players to battles, form guilds, and embark on quests together. As it uses the Unity 3-D engine, the game will be released on iOS, Android, and both PC and Mac web browsers.

New studio Gamundo has been working on Panzer Pets for free so far but now needs support to work on the game full-time and complete it. If you're interested in exploring a post-apocalyptic world with a customised pet robot in tow, you can help Gamundo finish the game by pledging money to its Kickstarter campaign, which launched last night. The estimated date for completion of the game is October 2012, and the team needs to raise $85,000 to make it that far without giving a publisher or investor a controlling interest in the game.

MassivelyDesign your own robots with upcoming MMO Panzer Pets originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>customisationexplorationexploregamundokickstarterpanzerpanzer-petspetpet-robotspetspost-apocalypticprocedurally-generatedrobotrobotsSun, 06 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion opens the BlackCloud Marketplace, adds eternal weapon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/aion-opens-the-blackcloud-marketplace-adds-eternal-weapon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/aion-opens-the-blackcloud-marketplace-adds-eternal-weapon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/aion-opens-the-blackcloud-marketplace-adds-eternal-weapon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BlackCloud Marketplace image
As part of Aion's conversion to the Truly Free model, NCsoft finally opened the doors of the new cash shop. Dubbed the BlackCloud Marketplace, Daevas can immediately begin purchasing in-game items with NCoin either singularly or in bundles. What exactly is stocking the shelves? We finally have the answer for you!

Besides the expected pets, consumables, emotion cards, and appearance items, the marketplace also offers XP amulets and special boost packs including immunity from XP loss upon death, boosted AP, and boosted Empyrean Crucible points.

From now until 6:30 a.m EDT April 11th, Daevas will receive a bonus pre-order gift for purchasing a large C.U.B.E. -- a level-50 eternal-grade Tahabata weapon. After this time, only the appearance skins will be sold. The weapon type will be class-appropriate for the character the player chooses when first purchasing the C.U.B.E. Other than the restrictions that characters must be level 30 or above, players can buy as many large C.U.B.E.s as they wish during this time to obtain multiple weapons. Once purchased, the weapons will be delivered after server maintenance on the 11th and will be soul-bound.

To get your special deal or even just window shop, check out the BlackCloud Marketplace today.

MassivelyAion opens the BlackCloud Marketplace, adds eternal weapon originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionBlackCloud-Marketplacecash-shopcash-shop-itemscash-shop-priceseternal-weaponf2pfantasyfree-to-playncsoftpetspre-orderpre-order-bonustruly-freeweaponThu, 05 Apr 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Frogster shows off Eligium: The Chosen One]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-frogster-shows-off-eligium-the-chosen-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-frogster-shows-off-eligium-the-chosen-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/gdc-2012-frogster-shows-off-eligium-the-chosen-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Eligium concept art
At GDC, there is much to see and do. And one of the best things to do (besides try to win a really cool fuzzy hat) is to actually experience a game through a demonstration or even some hands-on play. I had the opportunity to do just that with one of Frogster's upcoming games. No, not that one; the other one. Ellen-Jane Austin, Country Manager UK, and Marco Neubert, Director Product PR, took me on a brief tour of Eligium: The Chosen One.

Although this game from Shanda Games Ltd. is pretty similar to other games in many respects, there are a few features that give it a unique flair, especially the virtue system, mounts, and my personal favorite, an ability to shape-change into a two-headed dragon!

Continue reading GDC 2012: Frogster shows off Eligium: The Chosen One

MassivelyGDC 2012: Frogster shows off Eligium: The Chosen One originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventioneligiumeligium-the-chosen-oneEllen-Jane-Austinfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012Marco-NeubertmountspetsShanda-GamesShanda-Games-LtdshapeshiftshapeshiftingSun, 11 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[gPotato closing Prius Online, compensating players through April 10th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/gpotato-closing-prius-online-compensating-players-through-april/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/gpotato-closing-prius-online-compensating-players-through-april/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/gpotato-closing-prius-online-compensating-players-through-april/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Prius Online - closing March 27th
We regret to inform you of the impending death of Prius Online, a free-to-play fantasy title that featured a unique pet system comprised of anima and giga companions.

We first got wind of the title at last year's Game Developer Conference, and we covered its launch in the summer of 2011. In the interim, gPotato has decided to terminate the project and has posted a terse announcement on the game's official website with all the details.

March 27th will be the final day of service, and all cash shop items have been reduced to 1% of their original price for the last two weeks. gPotato is also compensating players via credit in its other games; you'll want to head to the compensation page to take full advantage of that offer by April 10th.

[Thanks to Dweeblok for the tip!]

MassivelygPotato closing Prius Online, compensating players through April 10th originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animacompanion-systemf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-closinggame-closuregigagpotatopetspriusprius-onlineterminationSat, 10 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battle.net Balance boots up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/battle-net-balance-boots-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/battle-net-balance-boots-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/battle-net-balance-boots-up/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Battle.net
Diablo III may not be out yet, but that's no good reason not to be filling up your virtual coffers for the day that it hits the streets! Blizzard has thrown the switch on Battle.net Balance, activating its online payment service that allows players to charge up their Battle.net funds to purchase various Blizzard game services.

The new Balance system can be used to buy World of Warcraft game time (although you can't set up a recurring subscription with it), in-game pets and mounts, paid account services in WoW such as character transfers, digital copies of Blizzard titles, and the opportunity to buy and sell items on Diablo III's auction house. It's important to note that not all regions will be able to participate in Diablo III's real-money transactions, however.

Once real money has been funneled into Battle.net Balance, it cannot be converted back into cash. Blizzard does state that in some regions, players will have an option to get cash back on Diablo III auction sales via PayPal. The company also mentioned that there is a cap on how much any player can have in his or her Balance account and that there are potentially region-specific expiration dates for Balance funds.

MassivelyBattle.net Balance boots up originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle.netbattle.net-balancebattlenetd3diablo-3diablo-iiidiiigame-timemicrotransactionsmountmountspaypalpetpetsreal-money-tradingreal-money-transactionsrmtsubscriptionsvirtual-walletworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard yoinks Diablo III companion pets due to excessive cuteness]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/blizzard-yoinks-diablo-iii-companion-pets-due-to-excessive-cuten/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/blizzard-yoinks-diablo-iii-companion-pets-due-to-excessive-cuten/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/blizzard-yoinks-diablo-iii-companion-pets-due-to-excessive-cuten/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Oh no, color! Destroying the ambiance!
Charges of extreme cuteness have been directed at Blizzard ever since the company unveiled its Panda-themed expansion for World of Warcraft. If a new post on the Battle.net forums is any indication, that won't be an issue for Diablo III.

A Blizz community manager penned an update regarding D3's beta patch 10, and among the notes is the fact that the game's companion scrolls are going away temporarily. "The companion pets felt like they were mandatory to maximize play efficiency and some of the pets were too cutesy for the gritty, dark world of Sanctuary," Nethaera wrote.

The pets (and scrolls) aren't gone for good, as the devs have plans for "a much cooler system (both mechanically and visually)" in the future.

MassivelyBlizzard yoinks Diablo III companion pets due to excessive cuteness originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattle.netblizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcompanion-petsd3diablo-3diablo-iiigame-mechanicsnethaerapetsThu, 26 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Four ways to improve kid-friendly MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/mmo-family-four-ways-to-improve-kid-friendly-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/mmo-family-four-ways-to-improve-kid-friendly-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/mmo-family-four-ways-to-improve-kid-friendly-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Minecraft flame field
Right now, there's a small war going on in our house. It's winter, we're all cooped up inside, and we're interested in different games. What's particularly interesting is that my kids will tolerate most of the games I play and join in, except for one: Star Wars: The Old Republic. They aren't remotely interested in it, and any time I fire it up, they push back by demanding their favorite game, which is Minecraft.

It got me thinking about why kids would prefer a 16-bit, block-shaped world to a glitzy, voiced-over, multi-million dollar title. Adult gamers love to hash out why they love one game over another, but what makes games appealing from a kid's perspective? Furthermore, we often see differences in kid-friendly MMOs and their features compared to games for grown ups, but can those features be improved?

Continue reading MMO Family: Four ways to improve kid-friendly MMOs

MassivelyMMO Family: Four ways to improve kid-friendly MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarechatchat-filterscollectible-petseaElectronic-Artsfeaturedgated-contentintrinsic-funkaren-bryankid-friendlykid-friendly-mmosminecraftminipetsmmo-familymojangpetpetsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorvanity-petszone-wallsWed, 25 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What vanity pet would you like to see in your favorite MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/the-daily-grind-what-vanity-pet-would-you-like-to-see-in-your-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/the-daily-grind-what-vanity-pet-would-you-like-to-see-in-your-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/the-daily-grind-what-vanity-pet-would-you-like-to-see-in-your-f/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fallen Earth
Last week Turbine announced all sorts of huge updates for Dungeons and Dragons Online in 2012. Among exciting talk of expansions, Druids, and level cap increases, one little item may have slipped under some folks' radar. Vanity pets are coming to DDO in 2012 -- specifically, "fun and cute DnD critters," according to Executive Producer Fernando Paiz.

Justin and I chatted a bit about that on this week's Massively Speaking, and Justin put forth the awesome idea of a tiny Beholder pet. I loved the idea and it set me to thinking. Vanity pets in MMOs are such a frivolous little thing, yet they're such fun to so many people, and it seems like everyone has a wish list of "wouldn't it be cool if..." vanity pets.

So what's yours? Would you love a little Beholder in DDO? Would you love to see Fallen Earth offer a prairie chicken pet to go with your mount? Tell us what vanity pet you'd love to see trailing along behind your character!

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 vanity pet would you like to see in your favorite MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinefallen-earthfeg1gamersfirstopinionopinionspetstdgthe-daily-grindturbinevanity-itemsvanity-petsWed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your favorite MMO pet class?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-mmo-pet-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-mmo-pet-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-mmo-pet-class/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EQII Beastlord
If you started playing MMOs at the beginning of the genre, you may be saddled with a prejudice against pet classes. In early Ultima Online, an Animal Tamer's pets, usually dragons, had a way of getting their master into notoriety trouble. In EverQuest, if ever a pull went awry, blame was placed on the Necromancers and Magicians, deserved or not -- obviously, those classes just had poor pet control. Even City of Heroes' Masterminds, implemented only in 2005, have a bad reputation for reckless behavior (not to mention for blocking party members' movement).

Pet AI has come a very long way over the last decade and a half, though, and pet classes continue to be popular, perhaps because they allow players to micromanage a group without actually having to be in one. And some games, like Star Wars: The Old Republic, have made all classes pet classes by virtue of companions. Are you a fan of pet classes, and if so, what's your favorite implementation across the genre?

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's your favorite MMO pet class? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aianimal-tamerbeastlordbiowarebrianna-royce-tdgcity-of-heroesCity-of-VillainsclassclassescohcovcoxeaElectronic-ArtseqEQ2EQIIeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iimagicianmastermindncsoftnecromanceropinionparagon-studiospetpet-aipet-classpet-classespetssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortdgthe-daily-grindthe-old-republictorultima-onlineuoMon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reid on Reddit: SWTOR fans ask him anything and everything]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/reid-on-reddit-swtor-fans-ask-him-anything-and-everything/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/reid-on-reddit-swtor-fans-ask-him-anything-and-everything/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/reid-on-reddit-swtor-fans-ask-him-anything-and-everything/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR
"Ask me anything." That's a dangerous command for anyone to issue, nevermind the community manager of the hottest new MMO on the block. Yet that's just what Stephen Reid said today to the Star Wars: The Old Republic community on Reddit, and the length of questions and answers would make for a mini-novel if packaged as such.

While Reid certainly hedges on issues that BioWare is not quite ready to address, he doesn't shy away from direct answers when applicable. The compiled Reddit thread lists dozens and dozens of Q&As, including the much-asked-for guild housing ("on the list for future development"), the ability delay issue ("we'll talk about it publicly soon"), and an upgraded Galactic Trade Network ("improvements will come to the GTN in time, definitely").

In response to the request for non-mechanical (read: animal) mounts, Reid said, "Maybe -- it's a technical challenge, I've been told." He's most excited about the upcoming legacy system reveals, but he's not allowed to talk on it just yet.

Amidst the probing questions of the newly launched title is a personal query about what it's like for him to be at the helm of SWTOR community management. "What's it like?" Reid responded. "Bewildering and overwhelming and exciting and demanding, all at once, all day long (and often into the night). I had some idea what I was getting into, but it was bigger than expected. I'll stay as long as I'm wanted."

MassivelyReid on Reddit: SWTOR fans ask him anything and everything originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amaask-me-anythingauction-housebiowarecommunity-managementcommunity-q-and-aeaea-biowaregalactic-trade-networkgtnguild-housinghousinglegacy-systemmountspetsq-and-aquestions-and-answersredditstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorWed, 28 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: The twelve days of Solorius]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/wings-over-atreia-the-twelve-days-of-solorius/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/wings-over-atreia-the-twelve-days-of-solorius/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/wings-over-atreia-the-twelve-days-of-solorius/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia header
Aren't I thoughtful? As my present to you, I am going to help banish those Solorius tunes that got stuck in your head a couple of weeks ago. How shall I accomplish this? No, not with a home-delivery amateur lobotomy or a plethora of psychotropics (though these could alternately be helpful I concede) but by replacing them of course! Yes, let's round out the season with a rousing rendition of The Twelve Days of Solorius.

Last year, I shared my first ever Aion holiday wish list. Although nothing from that hopeful list was granted in 2011, there is promise of at least two of those items being introduced to Atreia next year! So while some may have considered my brazen declarations of wants an exercise in futility, I shan't abandon hope! After all, what is a holiday season without hope?

Is there a little something special you'd like to see in Aion? Make your list then check mine twice past the cut.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: The twelve days of Solorius

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: The twelve days of Solorius originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gamealliancearena-ticketsemotesf2pf2p-conversionsfeaturedfree-to-playholidayhousingimmersionmanastonesncsoftncsoft-aionpetssoloriousuiuser-interfaceWings-Over-Atreiawish-listwishesMon, 26 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DragonSoul eyes early 2012 release, reveals Bard class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/dragonsoul-eyes-early-2012-release-reveals-bard-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/dragonsoul-eyes-early-2012-release-reveals-bard-class/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/22/dragonsoul-eyes-early-2012-release-reveals-bard-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

DragonSoul - No Bard screenshots, so here's a warrior!
Free-to-play MMO betas often drag out for months on end. Not so with DragonSoul's testing phase, which began in early December and is scheduled to culminate in an official launch at "the beginning of 2012." Neonga AG says that launch day will also herald the arrival of a new class -- the Bard -- as well as more pets and mounts to go along with the 300 already in the beta build.

The Bard is a support class that "prefers fighting in the second row," according to Neonga, and it offers an alternative playstyle that meshes well with the Warrior, Assassin, Mage, and Hunter classes.

DragonSoul is a PvP-focused fantasy MMO, and you can sign up for the open beta (and download the free client) at the game's official website.

[Source: Neonga AG press release]

MassivelyDragonSoul eyes early 2012 release, reveals Bard class originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bardbetaclassesdragon-souldragonsoulf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicsneonganeonga-agpetsThu, 22 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III and Torchlight II compared via infographic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/diablo-iii-and-torchlight-ii-compared-via-infographic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/diablo-iii-and-torchlight-ii-compared-via-infographic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/diablo-iii-and-torchlight-ii-compared-via-infographic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Diablo III vs. Torchlight II
Diablo III? Or Torchlight II? If you can't decide which 2012 action RPG will reign supreme on your desktop, perhaps it's because you haven't compared each game's features side by side.

GameArena has made that task quite a bit easier thanks to a comprehensive new infographic that appeared earlier this week. Whether you need a quick glance at the games' classes, a breakdown of the various single- and multiplayer options, or a look at intangibles like the modability and offline play of Torchlight II, the infographic has you covered.

There's even a section on pets and a mini-bestiary!

MassivelyDiablo III and Torchlight II compared via infographic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgblizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentclassescomparisondiablo-3diablo-iiif2pfantasyfree-to-playmultiplayerpetsrunicrunic-gamessingle-playertorchlight-2torchlight-iiWed, 14 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: A male Dark Elf Fighter in Aden]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/choose-my-adventure-a-male-dark-elf-fighter-in-aden/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/choose-my-adventure-a-male-dark-elf-fighter-in-aden/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/choose-my-adventure-a-male-dark-elf-fighter-in-aden/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Lineage II screenshot
Last week in Choose My Adventure, you voted for what kind of character I should make. I dutifully rolled him up and set off for fantastical adventures in Lineage II. Today, I bring you a dungeon video, many screenshots, first impressions, and even a livestream. It's a multi-media extravaganza! And we're also on to the next round of voting for what direction my character takes.

Let's not get ahead of ourselves, though. I had to start out at the bottom of the barrel. For the first 20 levels, I called Talking Island Village home, until I was transported to the mainland and a little town called Gludio. I discovered, among other things, that there are many tantalizing spots to see in the game -- if you are willing to travel off the beaten path. These spots are well worth the layover, especially if you have a powerful-enough machine. As old as Lineage II is, it's strikingly gorgeous. I didn't dawdle for too long, as I had some leveling to do, and I made a few discoveries along the way.

Gallery: CMA: Lineage 2

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: A male Dark Elf Fighter in Aden

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: A male Dark Elf Fighter in Aden originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurecmadark-elfdungeonf2pfantasyfeaturedfighterfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygold-sellersjeremy-strattonl2l2trulyfreelevelinglineage-2Lineage-iilineage2lineageIIlivestreamlivestreamsncsoftpetpetspollpollsvideovideosWed, 14 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR: Ten things you need to know about companions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-ten-things-you-need-to-know-about-companions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-ten-things-you-need-to-know-about-companions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-ten-things-you-need-to-know-about-companions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

SWTOR Guide to Companions
For those of you who have never played a BioWare RPG before (or any single-player RPG, really), the concept of "companions" may initially strike you as strange. After all, in MMOs we're so used to jaunting off into the wilderness solo without some semi-intelligent NPC tagging along for the ride, so for a game to inform us that we not only will have them but will have to use them all the time may feel odd. If so, we're guessing you've never been into pet classes, either.

Companions are one of the long-standing features of BioWare RPGs; they're both useful fighters who help keep you alive and persistent beings whom you get to know, develop relationships with, and affect in significant ways. In the past, BioWare companions have often been cited as the most memorable parts of the studio's games, from Baldur's Gate II's Minsc to Mass Effect 2's Mordin (to name two of my all-time favorites).

Yet in MMOs, companion NPCs aren't that common, and if you're feeling a little bewildered at the thought of having one at your side at all times in Star Wars: The Old Republic, then we're here to lay out for you 10 reasons why companions are as useful as all get out -- and why you're going to love them like crazy before too long.

Continue reading SWTOR: Ten things you need to know about companions

MassivelySWTOR: Ten things you need to know about companions originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baldurs-gate-iibiowarebonusbonus-companionscompanioncompanion-listcompanionscraftingcrew-skillsdroideaea-biowareelectronic-artsfeaturedguideguideshk-47hk-51knights-of-the-old-republiclucasartsmass-effect-2petpetspreviewpreviewsromancesci-fiskillsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstrategy-guideswtorswtor-companionsswtor-gameplay-guideswtor-guideswtor-launch-guidethe-old-republictorMon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Attitude of gratitude]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/wings-over-atreia-attitude-of-gratitude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/wings-over-atreia-attitude-of-gratitude/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/wings-over-atreia-attitude-of-gratitude/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Wings Over Atreia header image
For Solorius, I expounded on my wish list for Aion, detailing things I wanted to see in game. Now, however, 'tis the season to express thankfulness for that which we have. While contemplating the many things I am grateful for in my life, I also considered the things that I am grateful for in the world of Atreia. Sure, things are not perfect (what world, real or pixelated, is?), and there are problems, bugs, and things I still hope are changed or added, but that does not diminish the fact that Aion still offers many things to gamers in general -- and me in particular.

Originally slated to release during the holiday, this topic was preempted by last week's announcement. No matter -- I certainly don't mind stretching out the season of gratitude. So while it might be more trendy to troll and spread hate, I dedicate this week's Wings Over Atreia to just saying thanks.

Don't believe there are things to be thankful for? Step past the cut (or roll, if you enjoyed as much turkey as I did) to check out my reasons and a chance to express your own.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Attitude of gratitude

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Attitude of gratitude originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gameeventsfeaturedflightflyingfriendsfriendshipgratefulgratefulnessgratitudelegionnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpetsthankfulthankful-forthankfulnessWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 28 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Will RIFT survive the SWTORacolypse?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-will-rift-survive-the-swtoracolypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-will-rift-survive-the-swtoracolypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-will-rift-survive-the-swtoracolypse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RIFT Ember Isle invasion
It's coming. In just a few weeks, Star Wars: The Old Republic will launch, and on every gamer's mind is the subject of how many players it will lure away from other games. It's quite likely that every MMO will suffer a dip in numbers when SWTOR launches -- heck, even World of Warcraft is bracing for impact with a stock downgrade. But as gamers know, a launch is one thing, but how a game does in the months after is more important.

In this week's Enter at Your Own Rift, I'm going to grab that third rail and look at a few ways in which SWTOR and RIFT differ, to see what effect SWTOR's launch might have on the game. Keep in mind that I am a fan of RIFT (hence the regular column), and I also really enjoyed my time in SWTOR's beta, have it pre-ordered, and plan to play the game when it launches. So I'm not saying one is better than the other; rather, I'm looking at differences that might appeal to one playstyle over another.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Will RIFT survive the SWTORacolypse?

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Will RIFT survive the SWTORacolypse? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareclassescompanionscomparisoneaElectronic-Artsenter-at-your-own-riftfeaturedkaren-bryanpetsriftsoulsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictortriontrion-worldsWed, 23 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Snipers and biters: War of the Immortals opens up on Rangers and pets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/snipers-and-biters-war-of-the-immortals-opens-up-on-rangers-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/snipers-and-biters-war-of-the-immortals-opens-up-on-rangers-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/snipers-and-biters-war-of-the-immortals-opens-up-on-rangers-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

War of the Immortals
Who doesn't like playing a Ranger, really? Deadly at a distance, this fantasy version of military snipers gives players the immense satisfaction of dealing pain in large quantities before one's enemy can even close the gap to fight back.

War of the Immortals, which is currently in closed beta, has a deep, abiding love for Rangers and their long-distance love. Did you know that Rangers get to ride sonic tigers to work every day? Makes your Prius look like a brick now, doesn't it? Rangers do sound sweet, and if you want a better look at them, you can watch the class spotlight trailer after the jump.

Perfect World Entertainment is not only dishing out the love for Rangers but also the game's pet system. This system is perhaps a step beyond the typical attack dogs we see in other MMOs. For instance, you can not only teach your pets skills, but with the right souls ripped out of monsters, you can upgrade them and even combine them to create a completely new animal. If your pet's stats are really terrific, you can "fuse" yourself to that pet to gain a stat bonus at the expense of losing that particular beast for combat use (don't worry, you can have an additional pet to serve in that role).

Continue reading Snipers and biters: War of the Immortals opens up on Rangers and pets

MassivelySnipers and biters: War of the Immortals opens up on Rangers and pets originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archerbetaclassclosed-betaperfect-world-entertainmentpetpet-systempetspwerangerrangerssnipersniperstrailervideowar-of-the-immortalswoiFri, 18 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More pets, more combos, more burning: ArenaNet brings big changes to Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/more-pets-more-combos-more-burning-arenanet-brings-big-change/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/more-pets-more-combos-more-burning-arenanet-brings-big-change/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/more-pets-more-combos-more-burning-arenanet-brings-big-change/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Scooby vs. Smokey. Round one: FIGHT!
If you're anything like us here at the Massively offices, you've been feeling a bit starved for Guild Wars 2 news. ArenaNet's been extremely quiet for weeks now, and just as fans were beginning to despair of hearing anything, the information gates swing wide.

The ArenaNet blog has a shiny new update courtesy of designer Jon Peters this morning, and it's a doozy. It brings all sorts of new details on pet improvements, the Engineer's big upgrade, and the ever-fascinating cross-profession combos. Follow along after the break for all the news!

Continue reading More pets, more combos, more burning: ArenaNet brings big changes to Guild Wars 2

MassivelyMore pets, more combos, more burning: ArenaNet brings big changes to Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogcross-profession-combosengineerguild-wars-2gw2jon-petersncsoftpetsFri, 04 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Free Realms' vs. Wizard101's unicorns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/leaderboard-free-realms-vs-wizard101s-unicorns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/leaderboard-free-realms-vs-wizard101s-unicorns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/leaderboard-free-realms-vs-wizard101s-unicorns/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Leaderboard
In honor of the recently revived MMO Family column here on Massively, I thought that this week we'd extend the brutal beatings, clobberings, and verbal beratings to family-friendly MMOs. In many ways, Free Realms and Wizard101 are almost like siblings with so many things in common, and this extends to the use of sickeningly cute unicorn pets.

While I personally stopped paying attention to unicorns when Trapper Keepers went out of style, apparently they're still a "thing," especially with the younger market. You young 'uns, always keeping the unicorn union in business! Why don't you just let us harvest them for their magical horns which can be ground up and sprinkled on our Starbucks lattes?

Ahem. Sorry. In any event, one such instance of ultra-cuteness is enough; two is completely unnecessary and unhealthy for the well-being of our universe. So today you must decide which game's unicorns will rule as lord supreme over the hearts of tweens everywhere, and which will be sold to the salt mines to haul loads while crying rainbow tears. Vote! And let it forever be on your conscience!

[The unicorn on the left is from Wizard101; the one on the right is from Free Realms.]

Continue reading Leaderboard: Free Realms' vs. Wizard101's unicorns

MassivelyLeaderboard: Free Realms' vs. Wizard101's unicorns originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>familyfree-realmskidsleaderboardmmo-familyopinionpetpetspollrainbow-tearssalt-minesstarbuckstrapper-keeperstweensunicornunicornswizard101Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Digimon Masters launching October 25th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/digimon-masters-launching-october-25th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/digimon-masters-launching-october-25th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/digimon-masters-launching-october-25th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Digimon Masters - screenshot with boy and giant pet
Digimon fans, your wait is almost over. Joymax has just announced that the Digimon Masters Online MMO is scheduled to release on October 25th (which is next week, if you're keeping score at home).

The game features "a deeper RPG experience, enhanced graphics, and adrenaline-pumping real-time combat," according to the latest Joymax press blurb. DMO will purportedly satisfy fans of the original Digimon television series too, as it features more than 1000 characters who appeared on the show during the first five seasons. Joymax says that Digimon Masters is faithful to both the original art design and the series' storyline, and you can learn more about the pet-centric RPG title at its official website.

[Source: Joymax press release]

MassivelyDigimon Masters launching October 25th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animedigimondigimon-mastersf2pfree-to-playjoymaxlaunchlaunch-datepet-combatpetspress-releaseThu, 20 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EQII patch features Beastlord prelude quest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/eqii-patch-features-beastlord-prelude-quest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/eqii-patch-features-beastlord-prelude-quest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/eqii-patch-features-beastlord-prelude-quest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-discoverybeast-lordbeastlordclassclassesexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playlorenorrathpet-classpetsquestssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentTue, 11 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard introduces RMT loophole in World of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/blizzard-introduces-rmt-loophole-in-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/blizzard-introduces-rmt-loophole-in-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/blizzard-introduces-rmt-loophole-in-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Pet
Normally, the introduction of yet another pet in Blizzard's online pet store wouldn't raise any eyebrows. This time, however, the company is making one small change with a vanity pet that could have huge consequences in the game itself.

World of Warcraft's newly announced Guardian Cub is on its way to the pet store and will retail for $10. The difference between this and other pets available in the store is that the Cub will not bind to the player who purchased it but rather will remain bind-on-equip -- and tradable -- until it is used. Effectively, this turns the Cub into a $10 currency item that can be traded for in-game gold, a fact that Blizzard openly acknowledges in the pet's FAQ:
While our goal is to offer players alternative ways to add a Pet Store pet to their collection, we're OK with it if some players choose to use the Guardian Cub as a safe and secure way to try to acquire a little extra in-game gold without turning to third-party gold-selling services. However, please keep in mind that there's never any guarantee that someone will purchase what you put up for sale in the auction house, or how much they'll pay for it. Also, it's important to note that we take a firm stance against buying gold from outside sources because in most cases, the gold these companies offer has been stolen from compromised accounts. While some players might be able to acquire some extra gold by putting the Guardian Cub in the auction house, that's preferable to players contributing to the gold-selling "black market" and account theft.
Player reaction has been strong and varied, with many seeing this as a full endorsement of RMT in WoW.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

MassivelyBlizzard introduces RMT loophole in World of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-marketblizzardgoldgold-sellinggold-tradingguardian-cubonline-storepetpet-storepetsreal-money-tradingrmtstorevanity-petworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 11 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elsword adopts cute, cuddly, ferocious pets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/elsword-adopts-cute-cuddly-ferocious-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/elsword-adopts-cute-cuddly-ferocious-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/elsword-adopts-cute-cuddly-ferocious-pets/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Elsword Online
Pet lovers, rejoice: Elsword Online is adding a brand-new pet system to the game. Pet haters, rejoice: Elsword is allowing you to torment furry balls of cuteness in order to turn them into killing machines.

Once players hit level 10, they can select a pet to help them in their journeys. Right now there are only two types of pets in the game -- Pocket Phoru and Ancient Phoru -- although Kill3rCombo promises that more are coming soon. A pet can be trained as it grows through multiple stages of life, changing based on how the player treats it. Pets aid their masters with different types of attacks and buffs.

Kill3rCombo's Ben Colayco sees the pet system as keeping in line with the overall tone of the game: "Introducing pets to Elsword adds another dimension to the game and allows players to become fully immersed in the comic book style world. By echoing character evolution and growth within the pet system, we wanted to reinforce that Elsword offers a unique and dynamic environment to players, while at the same time maintaining the key differentiators that set us apart, such as maturation of characters."

[Source: Kill3rCombo press release]

MassivelyElsword adopts cute, cuddly, ferocious pets originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ben-Colaycoelswordelsword-onlineevolutionf2pfree-to-playgrowthkill3r-combokill3rcombomaturationpetpet-systempetsstarve-pikachuWed, 05 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan long-term subs available, Funcom gifting weekly consumable packs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/age-of-conan-long-term-subs-available-funcom-gifting-weekly-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/age-of-conan-long-term-subs-available-funcom-gifting-weekly-con/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/age-of-conan-long-term-subs-available-funcom-gifting-weekly-con/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Age of Conan - Bountiful Harvest pack
We've got more Age of Conan-related subscription news for you this morning. Yesterday we mentioned the lifetime sub sweepstakes currently ongoing at AoC's Facebook page. Today we came across some new time-limited sub offers on the game's forums as well as a blurb about free weekly login items.

The sub offers come in three-, six-, and 12-month flavors, and each also features a bundle of in-game goods designed to make your Hyborian life a little easier. All three packs give you assorted potions and the basic riding skill, while the six- and 12-month varieties give you mounts to go with it.

The weekly login items feature packs of consumables and are available via the special offers tab of the in-game store. This week's pack is labeled A Bountiful Harvest, while subsequent weeks will feature A Hearty Harvest, A Fine Harvest, and The Harvest Reward packs.

MassivelyAge of Conan long-term subs available, Funcom gifting weekly consumable packs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocaoc-unchainedconanf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhyboriamountspetspotion-packspotionssubscription-packagessubscriptionstime-limited-subscription-offersunchainedweekly-login-itemsWed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magic Campus beta a success, gamigo announces]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/magic-campus-beta-a-success-gamigo-announces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/magic-campus-beta-a-success-gamigo-announces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/magic-campus-beta-a-success-gamigo-announces/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Magic Campus - fantasy wallpaper
gamigo's new Magic Campus MMO has "passed the beta stage" according to the company's latest press release. The title is a tactical browser-based affair, and gamigo says that players will take on the roles of magicians in training and beast tamers bent on capturing the hundreds of critters that populate the "colorful anime world."

The game boasts six classes, turn-based battles against both monsters and other players, and guild and crafting systems designed to offer an alternative to combat. Magic Campus is free-to-play, and you can find out more about it, as well as download the client, at the official website.

[Source: gamigo press release]

MassivelyMagic Campus beta a success, gamigo announces originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animebeast-tamerbetaend-of-betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playgamigoguildsmagic-campusmagicianpetspvepvpstrategytacticalturn-basedThu, 29 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare releases more SWTOR companion info]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/bioware-releases-more-swtor-companion-info/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/bioware-releases-more-swtor-companion-info/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/bioware-releases-more-swtor-companion-info/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Wars The Old Republic - Corso Riggs companion
"Go for the eyes, Boo!"

Er, sorry, wrong BioWare RPG. You'll have to forgive us, though, as the firm's latest dev blog references dear old Minsc in the very first sentence. Yep, it's another treatise on companions in Star Wars The Old Republic, and this time senior game designer William Wallace (really) treats us to a lengthy entry explaining a bit about companion customization and combat.

The latter presentation takes the form of a few short videos showing off the fighting prowess of one Corso Riggs, a heavily armored blaster specialist who functions as one of the Smuggler class companions. Head to the official SWTOR website for all the goods.

MassivelyBioWare releases more SWTOR companion info originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecompanion-combatcompanion-customizationcompanionscorso-riggscustomizationdev-blogdev-diaryea-biowareelectronic-artsfreeeeeeeeeedomgame-mechanicsgo-for-the-eyes-boominscpetssmugglerstar-warsstar-wars-mmostar-wars-the-old-republicswtorwilliam-wallaceFri, 23 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefall adds pets for you to cuddle... and kill]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/firefall-adds-pets-for-you-to-cuddle-and-kill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/firefall-adds-pets-for-you-to-cuddle-and-kill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/firefall-adds-pets-for-you-to-cuddle-and-kill/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Firefall
Just in case you thought Firefall was going to be nothing but guns, ammo, and models toting guns and ammo, Red 5 wants us to know that there's a softer side to the game for those who love fluff. Talking with Shacknews, Mark Kern revealed that the shooter MMO will include a pet system for grizzled combat veterans who can't bear to leave the base without the security of Rygel and Princess Pebbles.

Of course, this being a red-blooded shooter, Firefall's pet system can't stop with extended grooming and cuddles. "We had had to do little things to actually make it interesting," Kern explained. "Not only can you get a pet, but we're thinking that there's actually an item you can buy in the store to load your gun with special ammunition so you actually shoot the other guy's pet."

Red 5 will be hosting an upcoming promotion starting on Wednesday called Crystite Challenge that will give fans a chance to get into the beta and unlock a Penny Arcade "The Merch" pet.

"The Merch is awesome because he's all about merchandising and he fits with our item-based theme," Kern said. Firefall is currently in beta and gearing up for a December launch. Curious onlookers would do well to check out Massively's hands-on impressions of the title from PAX.

MassivelyFirefall adds pets for you to cuddle... and kill originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaCrystite-Challengedie-pet-dief2pfirefallfree-to-playin-game-eventmark-kernmmo-shootermmofpspaxpax-prime-2011penny-arcadepetpet-systempetsprincess-pebblesred-5red-5-studiosryan seacrestrygelshacknewsshooterthe-merchvanity-petsMon, 19 Sep 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online celebrates third anniversary with bonus XP, veteran goodies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/warhammer-online-celebrates-third-anniversary-with-bonus-xp-vet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/warhammer-online-celebrates-third-anniversary-with-bonus-xp-vet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/warhammer-online-celebrates-third-anniversary-with-bonus-xp-vet/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Warhammer Online - vanity pets
It's time to raise a glass to Warhammer Online, as Mythic's fantasy PvP title turns three on September 18th (time flies when you're WAAAGHing, we suppose).

What's on tap for the inevitable celebration? Bonus XP/RP, of course, and a whopping 10 days of it. Starting today, players can enjoy increased advancement potential and loot a few fireworks from the twitching carcasses of their foes. Also, three-year veterans are being recognized for their loyalty, as Mythic is gifting them with a Jack-O-Lantern vanity pet and an endless supply of both chaos black and blazing orange dyes.

Don't forget that the 1.4.4 patch was recently deployed, and the Wild Hunt event is currently ongoing. Finally, check in with Massively on Sunday for our three-year Warhammer Online retrospective.

MassivelyWarhammer Online celebrates third anniversary with bonus XP, veteran goodies originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-year-anniversarybioware-mythiccelebrationchaos-blackdyesea-mythicelectronic-artsmythicpetsvanity-petswaaaghwaaagh-hammerwarwarhammer-onlineFri, 16 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragonica New Origin expansion coming September 20th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/dragonica-new-origin-expansion-coming-september-20th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/dragonica-new-origin-expansion-coming-september-20th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/dragonica-new-origin-expansion-coming-september-20th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Dragonica - Flying mount
Dragonica is getting a new expansion, and the latest gPotato press release calls it the game's largest content update yet. September 20th is the big day, and the appropriately titled New Origin patch will feature new classes, new riding pets, a level cap increase (to 80), and new video resolution options.

New dungeons are coming too, in the form of level 45 and 75 instances. Some of the old world maps have been redrawn as well, and gPotato says the redesign "[gives] the game a new and improved feel." The new classes take the form of the Shaman and the Amazonian, and there's also a new, as-yet unnamed race in the works.

Finally, we've gotten our claws on the New Origin teaser trailer, and if you're in the mood for some CG, cute mounts, and fire-breathing dragons, you'll find all of that and more after the cut.

[Source: gPotato press release]

Continue reading Dragonica New Origin expansion coming September 20th

MassivelyDragonica New Origin expansion coming September 20th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonianclassesdragonicadungeonsf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgpotatonew-classesnew-originnew-origin-expansionnew-racepetsshamanTue, 13 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise of Immortals MOBA launching September 12th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/rise-of-the-immortals-moba-launching-september-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/rise-of-the-immortals-moba-launching-september-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/rise-of-the-immortals-moba-launching-september-12th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Rise of the Immortals - combat screenshot
Ready for another MOBA title? Ready or not, there's a new one on the way, and Petroglyph has just announced that Rise of Immortals is set to launch on September 12th. The game is currently barreling through the final days of its open beta test, and as such you can still sign up and get a free preview as well as take home 1,000 Petroglyph coins and an exclusive immortal skin.

Rise of Immortals is free-to-play, and the dev team is looking to expand the MOBA genre by adding features like social hubs, emotes, persistent character progression, and collectible combat and vanity pets. That's not all, either, and we'll have more details for you in next week's edition of Not So Massively!

MassivelyRise of Immortals MOBA launching September 12th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-arenabetacombat-petsemotesf2pfree-to-playimmortal-skinlaunch-datelaunchesmobaopen-betapetroglyphpetspress-releaserise-of-immortalssocial-gameplaysocial-hubvanity-petsThu, 01 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scarlet Legacy prepping mammoth beta update for September 1st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/scarlet-legacy-prepping-mammoth-beta-update-for-september-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/scarlet-legacy-prepping-mammoth-beta-update-for-september-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/scarlet-legacy-prepping-mammoth-beta-update-for-september-1st/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Scarlet Legacy
The open beta MMO that's not afraid to bribe players to come give it a try is gearing up for one of its biggest updates yet. Scarlet Legacy is counting down the hours until it uploads an elephant's worth of content onto the servers for testers to enjoy (and, hopefully, thoroughly vet).

This September 1st content update includes, but is not limited to, an increase in level cap to 45, dozens of new skills, 12 additional stances, three more maps, 68 quests, 46 crafting recipes, 154 weapons and pieces of armor, eight pets, high-level events, and a partridge in a pear tree. Well, maybe not the partridge.

It's hard to say which part of the content update is most enticing, although our money is on the three new maps with intriguing names like Hidden Evil Island and Ancient Grave. There's also a virgin dungeon that's ready to be plundered for its goodies: Soul Trapping Matrix. For story lovers, the tale of Princess Scarlet will be extended up through level 45 to match the level cap increase.

GamesCampus vows to release similarly large updates "at least once a month" from here on out.

MassivelyScarlet Legacy prepping mammoth beta update for September 1st originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-gravearmorbetabribescontent-updatecraftingdungeoneventsf2pfree-to-playhidden-evil-islandlevel-caplevel-cap-increasemapsopen-betapetsprincess-scarletquestsrecipiesscarlet-legacyskillssoul-trapping-matrixstancesweaponsMon, 29 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Down but not out!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/20/the-tattered-notebook-down-but-not-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/20/the-tattered-notebook-down-but-not-out/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/20/the-tattered-notebook-down-but-not-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EQII Coldain
I was closely watching our Choose My Adventure poll last week and had a flashback to 1986, when I was torn between rooting for my two favorite teams, the Red Sox and the Mets. There I sat, staring at my Cabbage Patch Red Sox doll and my Cabbage Patch Mets doll, trying to decide which one I would embrace as I tuned in for the first pitch. Whom would I root for? Hurst or Darling? Dewey or Nails? Mookie or Billy Bucks? Carter or Geddy? Boggs or Ho-Jo?

I chose the Red Sox, and I'm still trying to get over that memorable World Series. The CMA poll had me right back in that seat, as I found myself rooting for both frontrunners, RIFT and EverQuest II. For EQII fans, the vote tally ended up somewhere under Bill Buckner's cleat, and RIFT ended up winning.

Take heart, EverQuest II fans: We have a great game, and like an aged wine, it's getting more buttery with a hint of raspberries and a taste of oak. So raise your glasses because it's time to toast the reasons EverQuest II is a great game!

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Down but not out!

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Down but not out! originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 20 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appearance-itemsappearance-tabatabbetrayalcommunitycontenteq-2EQ-IIeq2eq2wireeq2xeqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-ii-extendedfeaturedhousingjethal-silverwingmentoringmorgan-feldonpetsriftsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentSat, 20 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sevencore sci-fantasy MMO reveals English website]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/sevencore-sci-fantasy-mmo-reveals-english-website/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/sevencore-sci-fantasy-mmo-reveals-english-website/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/sevencore-sci-fantasy-mmo-reveals-english-website/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Sevencore - player with mount
Free-to-play publisher gPotato has launched a new English website for Sevencore, an upcoming sci-fi MMORPG developed in Korea by a firm called Noria. The game is described as a "free-riding action MMORPG where technology meets fantasy in a unique post-apocalyptic universe." The website also mentions the usual MMO staples including PvE, PvP, crafting, pets, and "an enhanced mounted air combat" system.

Sevencore just recently entered its Korean closed beta phase, and gPotato plans to bring a closed beta test to Europe sometime in 2012. For now, the new site is sparsely populated with a few screenshots, but there is a bit of closed beta footage floating around on YouTube, and we've collected that for you after the cut.

Continue reading Sevencore sci-fantasy MMO reveals English website

MassivelySevencore sci-fantasy MMO reveals English website originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air-combatbetaclosed-betacompanionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playkorean-betamounted-air-combatnew-titlesnew-websitenoriapetspost-apocalypticsci-fantasysci-fisevencorevideoFri, 19 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Frogster announces new Eligium MMO, reveals cinematic trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/frogster-announces-new-eligium-mmo-reveals-cinematic-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/frogster-announces-new-eligium-mmo-reveals-cinematic-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/frogster-announces-new-eligium-mmo-reveals-cinematic-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Eligium - castle screenshot
Most modern MMORPGs are all about making thousands of players feel like mighty heroes, but Frogster's newest endeavor is taking that concept to another level if the game's title is anything to go by. A new cinematic trailer for Eligium - The Chosen One was just announced, and the game itself will be shown off later this week at Gamescom 2011. The free-to-play fantasy title "challenges players to see if they have what it takes to be the chosen one and free the world from the invading demonic hordes," according to a Frogster press release.

Eligium was actually developed by a Chinese firm called Shanda Games Ltd. (Frogster is serving as the publisher), and the title will be launching in the first quarter of 2012 to the English, German, French, and Polish markets.

In terms of gameplay, Eligium features five playable race/class combinations (including panda fighters), extensive crafting and item upgrade options, and group instances as well as world boss battles. There's also a bit of PvP on offer and guild systems designed to bring factional warfare to the forefront. Frogster's press material also mentions player housing and a pet/mount-hatching system. You can glimpse the first official Eligium trailer after the break.

Continue reading Frogster announces new Eligium MMO, reveals cinematic trailer

MassivelyFrogster announces new Eligium MMO, reveals cinematic trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eligiumeligium-the-chosen-onef2pfaction-warsfantasyfree-to-playfrogstergame-mechanicsgamescom-2011mount-hatchingmountspetsplayer-housingpvepvpreal-world-eventsshandashanda-gamesshanda-games-limitedthe-chosen-onetrailervideoTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Forsaken World unlocks the Chains of Kluer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/forsaken-world-unlocks-the-chains-of-kluer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/forsaken-world-unlocks-the-chains-of-kluer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/forsaken-world-unlocks-the-chains-of-kluer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Forsaken World - Chains of Kluer
Call your pets and mount up, Forsaken World players, because the newest update Chains of Kluer is upon you. This newest addition to the free-to-play MMORPG brings a number of new features to the game. For starters, the level cap is being raised from 70 to 80. New events are being introduced, including "the revamped Eternal Faith, a Hunting Festival, and an advance pet catching dungeon." Guilds can also now upgrade their guild bases to level three, which includes "higher construction buildings" and lower maintenance fees. Pets can now assist players on their daily quests and events, and death can come more quickly than ever with the addition of mounted combat.

To top it all off, in order to commemorate the new update, Perfect World Entertainment is running a contest for players. Anyone who manages to bring down the eponymous ogre Kluer will be entered into a drawing to win a $300 statue of the ogre, an in-game Kluer pet, or an item that will transform players into the creature itself. Good luck, players. Get out there and show that ogre what for!

MassivelyForsaken World unlocks the Chains of Kluer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chains-of-kluercontestf2pforsaken-worldfree-to-playguild-basesguildskluerogreperfect-world-entertainmentpetspweWed, 10 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: And 2.6 came to pass...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/wings-over-atreia-and-2-6-came-to-pass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/wings-over-atreia-and-2-6-came-to-pass/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/wings-over-atreia-and-2-6-came-to-pass/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Not as heralded as its companions that came before, Aion's patch 2.6 hit North American servers this past Wednesday. But just because it wasn't cool enough for its own name (like Assault on Balaurea or even Empyrean Calling) doesn't mean it is without some goodies of its own. Granted, the patch isn't an Atreia-shattering deluge of content, but as I have stated previously, adding small chunks of content more frequently is better for keeping players interested and engaged in the game. And besides, 2.6 is one step closer to 3.0!

This patch introduced a solo version of the Empyrean Crucible for your crucible-insignia-hording pleasure, a new auto-group feature, some UI changes, a new pet, skill tweaks, and other assorted tidbits. This past weekend I experienced as many aspects of the new patch as I could in order to bring you a peek at life after the patch.

Is Stormwing really easier to beat? Can you really get platinum medals from the pet? How challenging is the Challenge? For the answers to these and more, join me past the break.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: And 2.6 came to pass...

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: And 2.6 came to pass... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.6-patchaionaion-crucibleaion-gameCrucible-Challengeempyrean-cruciblefeaturedgroupgroupingGrouping-mechanicsnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionpatchpatch-2.6patchespetpetsplatinum-medalssolo-instancesolo-instancesStormwingUIupdateupdatesWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 08 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragonica expansion bringing new race, class, and mountable pets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/dragonica-expansion-bringing-new-race-class-and-mountable-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/dragonica-expansion-bringing-new-race-class-and-mountable-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/dragonica-expansion-bringing-new-race-class-and-mountable-pets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

There's a new Dragonica expansion in the works, and gPotato and Gala Networks Europe have issued a new press release outlining a few details from the upcoming New Origin patch. The expansion launches this September, and looks to be the largest content update in Dragonica's history.

What's the big deal?

For starters, the patch will bring about a new playable race and mountable pets. Strangely, today's press release doesn't mention the new race by name, and instead says that it will "arrive with an entirely new player class" that uses summoning magic in some form, and "differ[s] significantly from [the] classes currently available." As for the new mount system, gPotato says that players may use their existing pets and may also deploy the mounts during battle. The expansion will include new pets as well, and we'll bring you more on all the New Origin content in the near future.

MassivelyDragonica expansion bringing new race, class, and mountable pets originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragonicaexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalagala-networksgala-networks-europegpotatomagicmountable-petsmountsnew-classesnew-originnew-origin-expansionnew-racepetspress-releasesummonersummoning-magicMon, 08 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST