Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hellgate Tokyo
Maybe I'm alone in this, but my jaw just dropped when I came home this past week to see that Massively posted the news that Shadowbane is coming back to life. Granted, it's only going to happen in China, but still, that's pretty incredible. Shadowbane's been in the ground for three years now, and if I had to pick an MMO that deserved resurrection, this particular one would be farthest from my mind (no offense if you liked the game; it's just that there are so many others that are even more worthy).

But how can this not give you hope? Many of us have lost an MMO we loved or at least had a decked-out character populating the character select screen, and the thought of that game coming back against all odds is a goosebump-rising one. It may also smack of justice served, as some MMOs fail not because of faulty gameplay but because of mismanagement by the studio, complex legal wrangling, or bad marketing.

Today let's look at a few examples of dead MMOs that were brought back to life and what this may mean for the future of the industry. Zombie MMOs! Not, you know, MMOs with zombies.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrchangyouclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicsclone-wars-adventurescrimediablodiablo-clonef2pfallen-earthfantasyfaxion-onlinefeaturedflagshipfree-realmsfree-to-playfrogsterg1galaxiesgame-archaelogistgamersfirsthanbitsofthellgatehellgate-globalhellgate-londonhellgate-tokyojohn-smedleylego-universemythosmythos-europemythos-globalnostalgiaopinionPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapvprebootredbanaresurrectionrevivalsandboxsci-fishadowbanesoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgot3t3funtabula-rasathe-game-archaeologistthe-matrix-onlinevanguardzombie-mmozombiesTue, 01 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE games down Monday for 24-hour maintenance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/soe-games-down-monday-for-24-hour-maintenance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/soe-games-down-monday-for-24-hour-maintenance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/soe-games-down-monday-for-24-hour-maintenance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

SOE logo
We imagine that the word downtime makes Sony Online Entertainment employees cringe, convulse, and eye-twitch for hours on end after last summer's disastrous hacker-induced service outage. Happily, though, the next service interruption is planned, and we've got plenty of notice.

SOE will be performing maintenance this Monday, April 23rd, and the firm says that all of its game services will be unavailable for approximately 24 hours. The downtime starts at 3:01 a.m. EDT. Commerce transactions and account management functionality will also be affected, so you might as well cross all of your SOE-related plans off Monday's calendar.

MassivelySOE games down Monday for 24-hour maintenance originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeqeq-2eq-iieq1eq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfpsfrfree-realmsfree-to-playhistoricalkid-friendlykidskids-mmommofpspiratespirates-of-the-burning-seaplanetsideplaystation-3playstation3potbspsps1ps3sandboxsci-fisoesoe-downtimesoe-maintenancesoe-planned-maintenancesoe-service-interruptionsonysony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroestelonvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgFri, 20 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea outlines plans for 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-outlines-plans-for-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-outlines-plans-for-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-outlines-plans-for-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Pirates of the Burning Sea - anchored ships
Remember Pirates of the Burning Sea? Yeah, it's still sailing along after its 2010 free-to-play conversion, and the dev team at Flying Lab Software is gearing up to celebrate the game's fourth anniversary in high pirate style.

Brain "Fodderboy" Taney has offered up a lengthy dev blog detailing what's next for the nautical MMO, and he outlines two main goals: immersion and the desire to "layer" the game.

Immersion is fairly self-explanatory (and in case it's not, Taney says that it entails bringing more authentic 18th century elements to the game). Layering requires a bit more verbiage, but it basically boils down to improving "the game experience for all the different kinds of players we have in our community (e.g., casual, hardcore, PvE-only, PvP-only, etc.)," Taney says. There's quite a bit more, of course, but you'll need to head to the official PotBS website to read about it.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea outlines plans for 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brian-taneydev-blogdev-diarydevelopment-roadmapf2pflying-labflying-lab-softwarefodderboyfour-year-anniversaryfourth-anniversaryfree-to-playhistoricalimmersionlayeringPirates-of-the-Burning-SeapotbssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentupdatesSun, 22 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
As I've well established both here on Massively and elsewhere, I'm somewhat of a nut for video game music. Whereas others might collect vintage hair metal tracks or the latest Justin Bieber opus, I'm always digging through obscure (and not-so-obscure) official soundtracks to games like Wipeout and Kirby. Video game scores can be right up there with the best that the film industry puts out, and the fact that they tie into personal experiences that we've played through can lend them sentimental weight.

So for the next two Perfect Tens, I scoured all the MMO theme songs that I could get ahold of in an attempt to formulate a list of the very best. It was originally slated to be just one list, but after an hour or so of listening to tracks and having friends and fellow staffers weigh in on the subject, I knew it was impossible to keep it there.

Two important things to note for this list. First, I wanted to keep to just the title/login screen tracks so that I wouldn't be working on this for the next 2.5 years. Second, unlike most past Perfect Tens where there's no significance to the order of the list, in this case we're going to have a genuine countdown to the best MMO theme song of all time. And I expect to take no flak about it, do you hear me? Good. Let's begin.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one)

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanbiowareblade-and-souldarkfalldarkfall-onlinefeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xiharry-potterlistmabinogimusicNobuo-Uematsuperfect-10perfect-tenpiratespirates-of-the-burning-searunescapescorestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthemetheme-musictitle-musictop-10top-20transformerstwilightwizard101wurm-onlineThu, 12 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Pirates ahoy!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/the-perfect-ten-pirates-ahoy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/the-perfect-ten-pirates-ahoy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/the-perfect-ten-pirates-ahoy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten: Pirates
Fantasy pirates: Love 'em or hate 'em, they're deeply ingrained in geek culture to the point that they're almost impossible to dislodge. This past Monday was International Talk Like a Pirate Day, when everyone's inner pirate was encouraged to "Arr!" heartily, look for treasure in long-forgotten places, and embrace the fashion style of bandanas and eyepatches.

It seemed like a perfect week, therefore, to look at piratey life in MMOs. From entire games to mere outfits and from the token pirate union that has a chapter in each game to delusional madmen, this list aims to sate the swagger of keyboard swashbucklers. It's a testament to the pirate phenomenon that most developers can't help but include a buccaneer or two, even if the setting isn't always asking for it -- a phenomenon even the U.S. Navy has accepted.

Hit the jump to start, and sail straight on 'til morning!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Pirates ahoy!

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Pirates ahoy! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ahoyblizzardcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcookiecovddodeadminesdisneydungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveeve-onlinefeaturedfree-realmsghost-piratesgooniesinternational-talk-like-a-pirate-dayirestone-inletjohnny-deppjolly-rogerlong-dronglord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromr-smiteperfect-10perfect-tenpiratepiratespirates-in-spacepirates-of-the-burning-seapirates-of-the-caribbean-onlinepirates-plunderplunderravenfellrunes-of-magicscallywagsscooby-dootalk-like-a-pirate-daythe-gooniesthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenturbineus-navywarwarhammer-onlineWorld-of-WarcraftwowyaaryarThu, 22 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE All Access pass goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/soe-all-access-pass-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/soe-all-access-pass-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/soe-all-access-pass-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment has finally lowered its monthly all-you-can-eat MMORPG subscription plan. All Access (formerly known as the Station Pass) grants you unlimited time with all of SOE's titles for a single monthly fee of $19.99.

Games include DC Universe (sorry PS3 users, this is for the PC version only), EverQuest, EverQuest II, Vanguard, and Star Wars Galaxies. You also get premium access to free-to-play titles like EQ2X, Free Realms, and Pirates of the Burning Sea. The All Access service, which previously set you back $29.99 per month, returns to the price point enjoyed by SOE customers prior to the April 2007 rate hike.

The reduction follows the announcement that SWG will terminate services on December 15th and will be freely playable to recent subscribers beginning in the fall.

MassivelySOE All Access pass goes live originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-accessbusiness-modelsdc-universe-onlinedcuoeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifree-realmsmmo-industrypirates-of-the-burning-seapotbsprice-reductionsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstation-passswgvanguardTue, 28 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Sailing to port]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/choose-my-adventure-sailing-to-port/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/choose-my-adventure-sailing-to-port/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/choose-my-adventure-sailing-to-port/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This week is my last entry in Choose My Adventure. After sailing the high seas for the past few weeks, my ship is returning to port, and I'll be turning the column over to our own Eliot Lefebvre. But even though I won't be writing about Pirates of the Burning Sea, I will continue to play it. There's a lot that I didn't get to see, and I'm particularly curious about the endgame, which seems to be where PotBS really shines.

It was a bit of a bumpy ride due to the downtime from the attacks on Sony Online Entertainment, but as I wrap up my column, I'll give a rundown of my impressions of PotBS and touch on a few of my future plans in the game.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Sailing to port

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Sailing to port originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurecmafeaturedfree-to-playpiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seaport-governorpotbsship-combatsocietiessoeSony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 08 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Dirty fightin' and treasure huntin']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/choose-my-adventure-dirty-fightin-and-treasure-huntin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/choose-my-adventure-dirty-fightin-and-treasure-huntin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/choose-my-adventure-dirty-fightin-and-treasure-huntin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

My pirate life continued this past week in Pirates of the Burning Sea, and thanks to your feedback, I took on some new swashbuckling skills. Based on the poll results, Dirty Fighting came out as the winning choice, and I happily retrained at my port.

I also popped over to Treasure Aisle, the in-game cash shop. I had some Station Cash burning a hole in my pirate chest, and since I had so much fun on my last treasure hunt, I decided to purchase a new map case and try my luck once more at finding the giant red X.

In this week's Choose My Adventure, I'll tell you how my respec went and whether I found any treasure. In addition, I'll give you a sneak peek at some new bling for my pirate ship!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Dirty fightin' and treasure huntin'

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Dirty fightin' and treasure huntin' originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buccaneercash-shopchoose-my-adventurecmadirty-fightingfeaturedpiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-SeapollpollspotbssailsshipssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentswashbucklertreasuretreasure-aisletreasure-huntingvanity-itemsWed, 01 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Out of drydock!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/choose-my-adventure-out-of-drydock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/choose-my-adventure-out-of-drydock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/choose-my-adventure-out-of-drydock/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It was a happy return to the high seas for Arienne Sauvage. You might have noticed that Choose My Adventure went dark for a couple of weeks, and that's because of the unexpected downtime from the attack on Sony Online Entertainment. Now that things are back up and running, I'm ready to set sail for the last few entries of my adventure in Pirates of the Burning Sea.

Join me this week as I evaluate the Welcome Back rewards, polish up my ship combat skills, and search for buried treasure!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Out of drydock!

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Out of drydock! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-clubchoose-my-adventurecmaf2pfeaturedflorentineflying-labsfree-to-playhands-onmarsh-harborpiratepirate-buccaneerpiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-SeapollpollspotbssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentswashbucklingtreasuretreasure-huntingWed, 25 May 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: High society]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/choose-my-adventure-high-society/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/choose-my-adventure-high-society/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/choose-my-adventure-high-society/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With my busy week last week on the road (school vacation) and now the interrupted service to all Sony Online Entertainment games, I didn't have as much time as I would have liked to jump in and play Pirates of the Burning Sea.

I did, however, continue my adventures a bit as Arienne Sauvage, Woman of Incredible Wealth and Taste (OK, so incredible isn't really in the title, but in my mind, it's definitely there!). I also started up a British Freetrader on one of my other Station accounts (two-boxing finally pays off!).

But the real question is, did I turn on my PvP flag? Read on for that answer as well as a closer look at societies and your choices if you decide to upgrade your free-to-play account.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: High society

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: High society originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british-freetraderchoose-my-adventurecmaf2pfeaturedfree-to-playpiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seaport-battlesport-governancepotbssocietiessoesonySony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 04 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Sink or swim!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/choose-my-adventure-sink-or-swim/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/choose-my-adventure-sink-or-swim/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/choose-my-adventure-sink-or-swim/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Just when I think I'm out, they pull me back in!

I really thought you all would choose one of the nations to play in my last poll, but no, you clearly signaled that I should stick with playing a pirate! As a result, I fitted my ship and went out to sea as Arienne Sauvage, Woman of Wealth and Taste. (Although that's up for debate)

Read on for a recap of my week in Pirates of the Burning Sea, including ship combat, the community, and some pirate humor!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Sink or swim!

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Sink or swim! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurecmaeconomyf2pfeaturedflying-labflying-lab-softwarefree-to-playftppiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapollpollspotbsship-combatsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 27 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: A pirate's life for me!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/choose-my-adventure-a-pirates-life-for-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/choose-my-adventure-a-pirates-life-for-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/choose-my-adventure-a-pirates-life-for-me/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ahoy, mateys! Welcome to the start of my swashbuckling adventures on the high seas. The votes are in, the polls have closed, and the winner for Choose My Adventure is Pirates of the Burning Sea. It was the runner-up last time, so it's nice to see that it's finally the belle of the ball.

For my introductory column this week, I'll take a closer look at the poll results (which were extremely close!) and then set off on the dangerous seas. Read on for a look at my first moments in game, and then pick my path for next week!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: A pirate's life for me!

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: A pirate's life for me! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-combatchoose-my-adventurecmafeaturedflying-labpiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapollpollspotbspower-and-prestigeship-combatsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 20 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Angling coming to Pirates of the Burning Sea]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/angling-coming-to-pirates-of-the-burning-sea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/angling-coming-to-pirates-of-the-burning-sea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/angling-coming-to-pirates-of-the-burning-sea/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"Teach an avatar to fish," the saying goes, "and he'll flood the auction house with smelly seafood." These words were never so true nor relevant than they are today, as Flying Lab announced that the ancient art of angling is making its way into Pirates of the Burning Sea with patch 2.6.

Scallywags, landlubbers, and buccaneers will be invited to take up a rod and pull slimy gold out of the sea when this hobby hits the game. Designed as a fun way to pass the time, fishing will add a new challenge to PotBS. It makes sense, too, considering just how much, y'know, water is present in the Caribbean.

Expert anglers will need to know and master the different types of fishing lines and lures while criss-crossing the ocean in pursuit of rare and unique species. Haul up a good catch and the local fishmonger will be happy to exchange your chickens of the sea for practical goods. The studio even hinted at a grand prize -- the region-exclusive trophy fish -- but did not elaborate.

Players are welcome to give this time-treasured sport a try on the test server once 2.5 hits.

MassivelyAngling coming to Pirates of the Burning Sea originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.52.6anglingchicken-of-the-seafishfishingflying-labflying-lab-softwarepiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbssoesony-online-entertainmenttrophy-fishWed, 13 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Into the cave I go!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/choose-my-adventure-into-the-cave-i-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/choose-my-adventure-into-the-cave-i-go/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/choose-my-adventure-into-the-cave-i-go/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hello Massively Readers, and thank you MJ for passing the torch! It's been an enjoyable ride following her in her Xyson adventures, and I hope I can do the same for whatever game is chosen.

And that brings me to the list -- what would you like to see me play? I made sure to include some of the bridesmaids from previous polls, as well as a few that were mentioned and not listed.

So what's it going to be, Massively readers? Will Pirates of the Burning Sea finally get its comeuppance, or will I sport a jet pack and buzz around in Global Agenda? Are you curious about whether MYST Online has the same frustratingly difficult but gorgeous puzzles as the original, or would you prefer that I return to my roots and spend some time on the EverQuest progression server? And, of course, there's my long-lost uncle whom I never got to know -- EverQuest II Extended. Maybe you'd prefer to see an EQII vet head to free-to-play land.

Whatever the game, I'm looking forward to your help choosing my path, and if you are also playing, I hope to get to know some of you during my adventures. Make sure to get your votes in by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Sunday, April 17th!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Into the cave I go!

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Into the cave I go! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurecmaDCUOeq2xeve-onlineeverquest-2-extendedeverquest-progressionfeaturedfree-realmsglobal-agendaLEGO-Universemyst-onlinePirates-of-the-Burning-Seaworld-of-tanksWed, 13 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Plundering the free seas: Pirates of the Burning Sea dev talks about F2P]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/plundering-the-free-seas-pirates-of-the-burning-sea-dev-talks-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/plundering-the-free-seas-pirates-of-the-burning-sea-dev-talks-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/plundering-the-free-seas-pirates-of-the-burning-sea-dev-talks-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Curious about how a subscription-based MMO makes the transition to a free-to-play model? It's not as easy as one might assume, and Pirates of the Burning Sea was no exception. In a recent devlog, PotBS's Misha takes us behind the stage to look at the logistical details and hurdles that had to be taken for this jump between business models.

While the team had been mulling over a microtransaction model from the beginning, it was only after a lot of discussion with SOE that the publisher showed the team a way this could be implemented. Following that, the team had to tackle several tricky issues, such as expired trial accounts, boxes still in the stores and all of the subscription types it had in place.

Next, the team ran the system through quite a bit of testing to iron out the snags. "Those who helped us test F2P in the early days will recall pets on their own little boats in the midst of battle, trying desperately to help out. You could zoom in and see a pig or chicken standing in a commanding position overlooking their hardworking crews. This bug is one of my favorite ever, and I'm still a little sad that we fixed it."

It wasn't just the software that needed to be tested but also the physical setup. At one point, Misha writes, "For whatever reason, we were suffering hardware failure after hardware failure."

While the F2P transition was slated for Thanksgiving 2010, it failed to hit the date. "We hit a major issue on our side and SOE hit a major snag on their side. So, no Thanksgiving F2P. On the one hand, we were really discouraged that we hadn't met our target. On the other hand, we were incredibly glad we had tackled these issues before we went live," she writes. Eventually Pirates of the Burning Sea "soldiered through it all" and made it to the live servers, much to the team's delight.

For a full rundown of this saga and the true tale of commanding pigs, head on over to Pirates of the Burning Sea.

MassivelyPlundering the free seas: Pirates of the Burning Sea dev talks about F2P originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-diarydeveloper-diarydevlogf2pfree-to-playMicrotransactionsmishapetspigpigsPirates-of-the-Burning-SeapotbssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentthanksgivingFri, 04 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PotBS devs share some cake with Massively]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/potbs-devs-share-some-cake-with-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/potbs-devs-share-some-cake-with-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/potbs-devs-share-some-cake-with-massively/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

How did you celebrate your third birthday party? We imagine that the Pirates of the Burning Sea developers celebrated it a lot like you might have: with pirates, talking birds and the occasional PvP fight. Of course, you probably didn't choose to participate in an interview with the best MMO website in existence, mainly because it more than likely didn't exist back then.

Our trusty eyepatches in place, we waylaid Russell "Rusty" Williams (Flying Lab's CEO) and Jason "Mr Nutty" Gettel (Lead Designer), who answered some of our "burning" questions. So sit back, put your bib on, blow out your candles, and click past the cut to see what they had to say on this special anniversary!

Continue reading PotBS devs share some cake with Massively

MassivelyPotBS devs share some cake with Massively originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3rd-anniversarybeau-hindmaneve-onlineflying-labflying-lab-softwarehistorical-mmohistoryPiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seaplayer-versus-playerpotbspvpSOESony-Online-Entertainmentthird-anniversarythird-year-anniversaryTue, 25 Jan 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea: The third anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-the-third-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-the-third-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/24/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-the-third-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Pirates of the Burning Sea just turned three years old, so we decided to take a look back at some of the history, controversy and changes that happened along the way. How do you sum up the history of an MMO, no matter how short? Do you simply make a timeline, establishing landmark events? What about the players -- how do they feel after sailing around the sea for all this time?

Well, we decided to do a little bit of each. What we found was a game that is still rich in its content, still varied in its playerbase, and still moving forward. The game has had its issues like any other, so on this anniversary we decided to showcase how the game has affected people with a series of mini-interviews with the players themselves.

Click past the cut to see what treasures we dug up!

Continue reading Pirates of the Burning Sea: The third anniversary

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea: The third anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanf2pflying-labflying-lab-softwarefree-to-playftpPiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seaplayer-versus-playerpotbspower-and-prestigepower-and-prestige-expansionpvpreal-lifeship-to-ship-combatshipsSOEMon, 24 Jan 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Ten tips for the virtual traveler]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/free-for-all-ten-tips-for-the-virtual-traveler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/free-for-all-ten-tips-for-the-virtual-traveler/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/free-for-all-ten-tips-for-the-virtual-traveler/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This week I decided to take a break from analyzing cash-shop models and theorizing over what players might consider "nickel-and-diming" (hint: it doesn't exist) to bring you some frequent MMO traveler tips. Now, if you are the type who enjoys playing one game for years and years or who doesn't have any interest in most any other game, this is not for you. These are a few tips that I have learned from covering games over the last years of my life, especially during my time with Massively.

Since I have been here (it will be a year in March, if I recall) I have been embarking on a journey across all types of MMOs, one MMO per week. I might not remember everything I have done, but I do remember how to make sure that I feel satisfied after spending only a week in each game. Granted, many of the games I have played have stuck around for a long, long time, some of them becoming favorites. Recently, though, I put so much more into playing the current game that I have to let it go in order to put that much into the next one.

How do you live this virtual vagabond lifestyle and still feel good about yourself? What about the golden rule -- a week isn't long enough to get any ideas about an MMO? Well, click past the cut and I'll try to explain.

Continue reading Free for All: Ten tips for the virtual traveler

MassivelyFree for All: Ten tips for the virtual traveler originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbeau-hindmandcuof2pfree-for-allfree-to-playftpPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbspriston-tale-2quest-onlinetraveltravel-tipsTravelingWed, 19 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea celebrating third anniversary with a new build]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-celebrating-third-anniversary-with-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-celebrating-third-anniversary-with-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-celebrating-third-anniversary-with-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's been a couple of months since Flying Lab Software opted to steer its Pirates of the Burning Sea MMO into free-to-play waters. In the interim, the seas have been smooth and things have been pretty quiet in terms of updates. Flying Lab hasn't been resting on its laurels however, and has just released extensive patch notes for the 2.2.83.0 update that ties in with the game's third anniversary.

First up is a new mission and series of minigames (and a new coat reward item) accessible from the Royal Society NPC in your nation's capital. Treasure Aisle, the game's item shop, also features time-limited extras in the form of a black cockatoo and a celebratory monkey (yes really).

In other patch-related news, San Juan has been given an extensive graphical overhaul, a new live event chat channel has been added, and a boat load of stability and performance fixes have been introduced. Read the rundown on these -- and many other -- tweaks, additions, and fixes at the official Pirates of the Burning Sea website.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea celebrating third anniversary with a new build originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.2.83.0black-cockatoof2pflying-labflying-lab-softwarefree-to-playnew-coatpatchpatch-notesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbssan-juan-updatesoeSony-Online-EntertainmentupdatesWed, 19 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Uncharted Waters Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/16/rise-and-shiny-recap-uncharted-waters-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/16/rise-and-shiny-recap-uncharted-waters-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/16/rise-and-shiny-recap-uncharted-waters-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Uncharted Waters Online by Netmarble is one of those games that I have been meaning to get around to taking a much deeper look at, but I never seemed to find the time. I knew that the game would require more concentration and chin-scratching than I was used to in many games, so I was a little worried. I also knew that a week would be seen as "not nearly enough time" to cover the game, but then I remembered my promise of covering the newbie experience for this column. I don't care which game we are talking about; they all deserve a look at the first few levels or days in game.

UWO was surprisingly easy. In fact, the hardest part about the game was figuring out exactly what it was that I needed to do in order to move forward, but honestly even that was probably covered in the 34-year-long tutorial. Every time I broke down and asked the chat denizens about a certain item or quest section, they would give me the answer. When I asked them where they found the information, they would simply say "the tutorial." I believed them -- the tutorial is long and filled with information that I quickly forgot.

In fact, if you decide to give the game a go, do yourself a favor and pay close attention to the tutorial. It will more than likely tell you everything you need to know. Besides my issues with listening, I found a lot more inside the world or pirates, exploration, and trade, so click past the cut and let's talk about it.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Uncharted Waters Online

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Uncharted Waters Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmaneve-onlineexplorationf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumftpLiveStreamLiveStreamingnetmarblePiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Searise-and-shinyShip-Combatuncharted-watersuncharted-waters-onlineUWOvideoSun, 16 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-highlights/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

To many veteran MMO players, the opening horns of EverQuest's score are enough to trigger vivid memories, violent hallucinations, and an unstoppable desire to leap through the computer screen to return to Norrath. It all depends, of course, on which MMO you first cut your teeth, and while many gamers would claim titles like World of Warcraft as their first, there is a large contingent who will confess that EQ was their first MMO lover.

In fact, before WoW came on the scene in 2004, EverQuest was the gold standard of MMOs for a half-decade -- it was insanely popular, perfectly addictive, and absolutely revolutionary. It was a giant that roamed the virtual lands of those days, a giant that continues to forge new grounds well over a decade from its inception.

It was 1995 when John Smedley realized the potential for online gaming and roped in Brad McQuaid and Steve Clover to start putting together an online RPG for SOE. What began as a small project ballooned into a crazy endeavor as the growing team created a monster RPG the likes the world had never seen before -- a game that would forever shape the MMO genre.

This month, the Game Archaeologist is going after one of the biggest treasures of recorded history as we unearth the secrets to EverQuest's popularity, legacy, and longevity. The first step on our journey is to look at some of the highlights that made EQ what it is today.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.5-dacAlex-Afrasiabiasherons-callbrad-mcquaidclone-wars-adventuresdc-universe-onlinedcuodikumuddingdkpdoomDuke-Nukem-3De-deqeq-iieq2evercrackedevercracked-the-phenomenom-of-everquesteverquestEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iiexpansionsfarmfree-realmshouse-of-thuleignj-allen-brackjace-halljeff-kaplanjohn-smedleykunarkmeridian-59mezzmudnerfnichenorrathPirates-of-the-Burning-Seaplanetsideprocraph-kosterrezrob-pardoshadows-of-luclinsoesonySony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstation-accesssteve-cloversubscription-numberssubscriptionsswgthe-game-archaeologistthe-matrix-onlinethe-ruins-of-kunarkultima-onlineunderfootuovanguardverantverant-interactiveWorld-of-WarcraftwowTue, 04 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea now sailing the free-to-play seas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-now-sailing-the-free-to-play-seas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-now-sailing-the-free-to-play-seas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-now-sailing-the-free-to-play-seas/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The time has come for freewheeling free-to-play fun on the seas of adventure. Today marks the official relaunch of Pirates of the Burning Sea after a long period of bug fixing, tons of beta testing, and a series of upgrades to the game. If you're in the mood for some seafarin' scalawag scuffles, you risk nothing beyond a download and some gaming time. Definitely can't beat that pricetag for pirate goodness.

For those who haven't been keeping up on the news from Pirates of the Burning Sea, have no fear! We've gathered up a handful of articles behind the break that offer a look at dev blogs, interviews, and even our own super-secret tests of customer service. Click on the link, mateys, and get ta readin' while Flying Lab finishes patchin' the servers against Davy Jones' evil.

Continue reading Pirates of the Burning Sea now sailing the free-to-play seas

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea now sailing the free-to-play seas originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pflying-labflying-lab-softwarefree-to-playPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbsrelaunchroundupsoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 29 Nov 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea delays F2P conversion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-delays-f2p-conversion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-delays-f2p-conversion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-delays-f2p-conversion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

We haven't heard much out of Flying Lab Software since its announcement of Pirates of the Burning Sea's impending free-to-play conversion. Early this morning, Flying Lab producer Michelle "Misha" Williams posted on the game's official forum, confirming that the transformation will be pushed back.

In an email originally sent in late October, PotBS account holders were informed that the F2P switcheroo would occur "on or around November 22." Williams relates that both SOE and Flying Lab determined that a delay was in everyone's best interest. "While some of us had visions of tons of new players spending their entire Thanksgiving weekend doing their Christmas shopping in Pirates of the Burning Sea's Treasure Aisle, we've had to measure that against the risk of putting out a build with too many bugs on a short week when many folks crucial to responding to potential problems aren't available to do so," she writes.

Williams goes on to outline a few of the reasons for the delay, including the account-level gymnastics that SOE will be performing apart from Flying Lab's game code. Check out the full report on the o-boards.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea delays F2P conversion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayf2pflying-labflying-lab-softwarefree-to-playfree-to-play-conversionPirates-of-the-Burning-SeapotbssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentMon, 22 Nov 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should multiple accounts be policed?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/the-daily-grind-should-multiple-accounts-be-policed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/the-daily-grind-should-multiple-accounts-be-policed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/the-daily-grind-should-multiple-accounts-be-policed/#commentsFiled under: ,


Pirates of the Burning Sea recently amended its in-game rules to reflect an official stance on the practice of "alt-flipping," a tactic used by players with multiple accounts to manipulate the game's Conquest system. In a nutshell, Flying Lab devs have labeled certain uses of the tactic as griefing and stated that it will be policed as such (including possible bans).

Interestingly, Flying Lab also goes out of its way to state it has no problem with multiple accounts per se, saying that in most cases multiple accounts are a perfectly acceptable gameplay tactic. This seemingly opens up a can of worms over what is considered legitimate and/or acceptable gameplay, particularly when the game's design intentionally features a "cutthroat, competitive [...] system that drives players to find any edge they can get over the opposing forces."

Dual-boxing is nothing new in MMORPGs of course, and games like EVE Online even advertise it and run discount promotions for alt accounts. What about you, Massively readers? Do you dual-box, and more importantly, do you feel alt accounts should be policed?
Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of our 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 The Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Should multiple accounts be policed? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alt-flippingalternate-charactersaltsdual-boxingeve-onlineflying-labflying-lab-softwareopinionPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbstdgthe-daily-grindTue, 19 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flying Lab answers six questions about Pirates of the Burning Sea]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/soe-answers-six-questions-on-pirates-of-the-burning-sea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/soe-answers-six-questions-on-pirates-of-the-burning-sea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/soe-answers-six-questions-on-pirates-of-the-burning-sea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Unless you have a boulder for a roof, you know that the folks behind Pirates of the Burning Sea recently announced that the game is going down the free-to-play route. While that's very exciting, especially considering what free-to-play has done for games like Dungeons and Dragons Online, Lord of the Rings Online and EverQuest II, there were still some questions we wanted answered.

We reached out to Declan O'Connell, the head of the Design Department at Flying Lab, for answers to some quick queries.

Continue reading Flying Lab answers six questions about Pirates of the Burning Sea

MassivelyFlying Lab answers six questions about Pirates of the Burning Sea originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanddodeclan-oconnelldungeons-and-dragons-onlineEQ2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iiexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumftpinterviewInterviewslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbspower-and-prestigepower-and-prestige-expansionSOESony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 13 Oct 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Community Detective, Issue #9: Pirates of the Burning Sea]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/community-detective-issue-9-pirates-of-the-burning-sea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/community-detective-issue-9-pirates-of-the-burning-sea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/community-detective-issue-9-pirates-of-the-burning-sea/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Yarr! Hmm, not really. YARRRRRRR! That's a little better. Ahoy, mateys. Talk Like a Pirate Day may be over, but that isn't stopping me from navigating the rough waters of Flying Lab Software's Pirates of the Burning Sea for this week's issue of Community Detective. The game's a fair bit of fun, and since it recently joined the F2P bandwagon that all the cool kids are jumping on these days, it's likely to become more popular in the near future.

As such, much like I did with Turbine's Lord of the Rings Online, I wanted to get a look at the game's community and customer service apparatus both before and after the payment model switcheroo. So how are the social aspects of the SOE-published title shaping up? Well, the customer service is pretty spot on. The community? Well, I'll be kind (for now) and simply say that it leaves a little something to be desired.

Sail past the cut to learn more.

Continue reading Community Detective, Issue #9: Pirates of the Burning Sea

MassivelyCommunity Detective, Issue #9: Pirates of the Burning Sea originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communitycommunity-detectivecommunity-pollingcustomer-servicefeaturedflying-labflying-lab-softwarehistoricalopinionpiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-SeapotbssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentyarrrTue, 28 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 116]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/massively-speaking-episode-116/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/massively-speaking-episode-116/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/massively-speaking-episode-116/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 116 arrives this week with Shawn and Rubi discussing the hottest MMO topics, including the new info on Guild Wars 2's smartphone app, Pirates of the Burning Sea going F2P, Shawn's quick impressions of Vindictus and much more!

[Update: The Vindictus codes are all gone! You guys are quick!]

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to shawn@massively.com with the subject "Massively Speaking". We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
[RSS] Add Massively Speaking to your RSS aggregator.
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.
Massively Speaking is the official podcast of Massively.com. Hosted by Editor-in-Chief Shawn Schuster and Contributing Editor Rubi Bayer, Massively Speaking takes on the week's biggest news and dev interviews with plenty of opinion, rants, and laughs thrown in for good measure. Join us every Wednesday afternoon to listen in and see what we'll say next!

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 116

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 116 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffxivfinal-fantasy-xivguild-wars-2humormassively-metamassively-speakingopinionphantasy-star-online-2pirates-of-the-burning-seapodcastingpodcastspotbsvindictusWed, 22 Sep 2010 17:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 116Massively.com Staff37:37podcasts<![CDATA[Uncharted Waters Online heads to open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/uncharted-waters-online-heads-to-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/uncharted-waters-online-heads-to-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/uncharted-waters-online-heads-to-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Starting on October 1st, eager players will be able to jump into the open beta waters of Uncharted Waters Online. If you are a fan of Pirates of the Burning Sea, then you have an idea of what to expect with UWO. The game has a long history, stemming all the way back to a 1991 Nintendo title. This version is imported from Korea, where the game has enjoyed three years of hosting happy pirates.

If you're an options player, then you'll more-than-likely enjoy UWO. While you can always fall back on combat or adventuring for your pirating needs, you can also explore and discover new areas and items, craft goods to sell, or become a trader.

Of course, with job names like treasure hunter, master explorer, guerrilla or folklorist, you will have many other options to explore. The game also has a rich PvP system and weather that can actually hinder your adventuring. There will be a pre-load client available on September 29th for those of us who can't wait to get back to the stormy seas!

MassivelyUncharted Waters Online heads to open beta originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventuringbetacj-internetlandlubbersnintendoopen-betaparrotPiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbspvpreal-lifeuncharted-waters-onlineUWOyarrrrWed, 22 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flying Lab details Pirates of the Burning Sea F2P conversion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/flying-lab-details-pirates-of-the-burning-sea-f2p-conversion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/flying-lab-details-pirates-of-the-burning-sea-f2p-conversion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/flying-lab-details-pirates-of-the-burning-sea-f2p-conversion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Flying Lab Software, makers of the Pirates of the Burning Sea historical naval MMORPG, recently decided it was time for the subscription-based business model to walk the plank. While Flying Lab CEO Russell Williams penned an introductory devlog breaking the news late last week, the piece was light on the details, setting the stage for a more in-depth look at the decision from a gameplay perspective.

Flying Lab game designer Jason "Mr. Nutty" Gettel checks in with another devlog designed to address introductory questions that current players and tire-kickers may have about the title. While there's nothing revolutionary about Flying Lab's take on RMT (it features the standard item shop, along with the equally standard no-game-breaking-items-for-sale mantra), it's good to see it spelled out after Williams' somewhat cryptic announcement.

One interesting wrinkle that bears watching is the way Flying Lab is implementing perks for Captain's Club members (the new name for monthly subscribers). Among other things, subbers will enjoy an experience bonus as well as increased loot and faction gain over their F2P brethren. Read the full article on the game's official website, and be sure to look for Massively's exclusive Flying Lab interview in the coming days.

MassivelyFlying Lab details Pirates of the Burning Sea F2P conversion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-clubf2pflying-labflying-lab-softwarefree-to-playjason-gettelloot-bonusmr-nuttyPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbsrussell-williamssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentxp-bonusMon, 20 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea to go F2P with next expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-to-go-f2p-with-next-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-to-go-f2p-with-next-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-to-go-f2p-with-next-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Having just cranked out the shiny new expansion Power & Prestige for Pirates of the Burning Sea, the team at Flying Lab Software has opted to set a course for another uncharted destination -- the free-to-play waters! Indeed -- it appears that the company has been planning this move since the tail end of last year, and what's more, it has already coded in the free-to-play elements -- currently in testing. While no specific date has been given, the hope is to release this change in the fall along with their next expansion content pack.

Russell Williams, CEO of Flying Lab Software noted the change in a statement: "Since we launched Pirates of the Burning Sea in January 2008, players have been battling on the high seas to control the Caribbean. With Power & Prestige's Port Governance, we've added a whole new level of immersion to the struggle for power. Players also have access to a wealth of new content, and have a whole new fighting school to master. We're also excited to make Pirates of the Burning Sea even more accessible by making it free-to-play in the near future so that even more players can enjoy the amazing ship battles, in-depth missions, and the rich Caribbean setting."

More information regarding the decision can be found on the Pirates of the Burning Sea website, for those curious. In the meantime, good thing that Talk Like a Pirate Day is coming! We can get to practicin' on our piratin' talk before it be time to weigh anchor and set sail on the F2P sea, mateys.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea to go F2P with next expansion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingexpansionf2pflying-labflying-lab-softwarefree-to-playpirates-of-the-burning-seapotbspower-and-prestigerussell-williamssoesony-online-entertainmentThu, 16 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea expansion launches tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-expansion-launches-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-expansion-launches-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-expansion-launches-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Flying Lab Software has announced the new live date for Power & Prestige, the first expansion for their Pirates of the Burning Sea MMORPG. The update, originally scheduled to sail in August, is bringing quite a few new features to the high seas title, including ship revamps, port governance, and new mission content.

Community manager Tom "Rhaegar" Atkinson-Edwards checks in on the official website to give us the low-down on what to expect with the patch. Due to the expansion's extensive content and complexity, the folks at Flying Lab are estimating a 12-hour downtime tomorrow as they work their magic. You can view the full update notes for the expansion on the official Pirates of the Burning Sea support website.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea expansion launches tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansion-launchflying-labflying-lab-softwarePirates-of-the-Burning-Seaport-governanceport-governorpotbspower-and-prestigepower-and-prestige-expansionship-revampssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentTue, 14 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Where's the rum gone?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/one-shots-wheres-the-rum-gone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/one-shots-wheres-the-rum-gone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/10/one-shots-wheres-the-rum-gone/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The crew at Flying Lab is still hard at work polishing up the upcoming Power & Prestige expansion to its game, Pirates of the Burning Sea. Meanwhile, devoted seafarers are checking out the new adventures on the test server, as the new expansion has gone into open beta and is set to launch soon. This fun screenshot of freebootin' adventure comes to us from regular contributor Steven K., who has been enjoying some privateerin' fun lately and writes in: "I've just been accepted into the Bretheren of the Coast. More importantly, I've been gifted a shiny new frogsticker and a pistol I call 'One-eyed William.' Here I am at the dock's of Morgan's Bluff. I'm certainly finding the old saying true so far... 'A pirate's life for me!' "

Have you been enjoying some time in a game we don't see that often? Are niche titles your favorite type of MMOs? Well, don't be shy! Send your images in to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post it out here for everyone to check out and give you the credit for being adventurous.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Where's the rum gone? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flying-labflying-lab-softwareone-shotspirates-of-the-burning-seapotbspower-and-prestigepower-and-prestige-expansionscreenshotscreenshotssteven-kFri, 10 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea expansion delayed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-expansion-delayed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-expansion-delayed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-expansion-delayed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Those of you looking forward to the graphical improvements, ship tuning, and assorted extra features coming your way in Pirates of the Burning Sea's first expansion will have to cool your heels for a couple of weeks. Flying Lab Software community manager Tom "Rhaegar" Atkinson-Edwards posted official word on the Power & Prestige delay on the game's official website yesterday.

While no firm timetable has been set, it's not time to walk the plank just yet, as Atkinson-Edwards states that the team is currently shooting for a revised date in early September.

The expansion brings skill revamps, ship revamps, port governance, and a boatload of new missions to the world of Pirates of the Burning Sea. If you absolutely can't wait to see what the expansion has to offer, check out the open beta via the official website.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea expansion delayed originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionexpansion-delayedflying-labflying-lab-softwarePirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbspower-and-prestigepower-and-prestige-expansionTue, 24 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Buckles need swashin']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/one-shots-buckles-need-swashin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/one-shots-buckles-need-swashin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/one-shots-buckles-need-swashin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

One of the things that's especially fun for me, as the person who writes One Shots every day, is having regular contributors who like to touch base every so often and show off what they're doing. It's kind of like catching up with a friend you haven't seen in a while. Today, I got a note from one of our regular contributors, Stephen K., who has sent in several screenshots of Ryzom. He's decided to throw us a curve today by sending in a screenshot of Pirates of the Burning Sea, and writes in:

"Cap'n Svven Svensson has only just arrived, but you can easily discern the disgust on his face. Nothin' worse than an empty cage! 'Hmmph,' snarls Svensson as he stares at the British soldier slumped in the one cage that is occupied. 'Me thinks we need to find you a friend!!' He's arrived in the Burning Sea just in time to help elect the new Governor, and pamphlets championing various 'candidates' lay trampled on the docks or swirl high above the rooftops in the stiffening western breeze."

If you'd like to share your adventures from time to time, we're always looking for regular contributors! All you have to do is email a screenshot to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a note to tell us what's going on in the image. To be a regular, just send them in every so often and keep us in the loop on what you're up to. We'll post your images out here on Massively and give you the credit for sending them in!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Buckles need swashin' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flying-labflying-lab-softwareone-shotspiratespirates-of-the-burning-seapotbsscreenshotscreenshotsstephen-kThu, 19 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea exchange shops detailed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-exchange-shops-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-exchange-shops-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-exchange-shops-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We know what you're thinking, because it's the same thing we thought when we heard the words "exchange shop" uttered in concert with Pirates of the Burning Sea. Surprisingly, this isn't yet another free-to-play conversion announcement but rather a look at one of the new features sailing your way in the forthcoming Power and Prestige expansion.

The new content, scheduled to launch August 24th, will enable Collection Exchange Shops on every junk buyer in a particular game region. In a nutshell, the shops streamline the loot collection and turn-in process, and a new dev blog over at the official Pirates of the Burning Sea website has all the details. "We have done some number crunching and decided to increase the value of low level loot in order to give new players another way to generate capital while roaming the open sea," the post says.

Furthermore, Flying Lab has also added Career Reward Exchange Shops to the expansion. Due to the extensive ship changes coming with the patch, it's quite probable that many veteran players will want to respec their previously earned career rewards. Many career mission NPCs will now feature the ability to swap ship outfittings free of charge.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea exchange shops detailed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>career-reward-exchange-shopcollection-exchange-shopsdev-logflying-labflying-lab-softwarePiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbspower-and-prestigepower-and-prestige-expansionrespecsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentThu, 29 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea confirms expansion release date, extra features]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/25/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-confirms-expansion-release-date-extr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/25/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-confirms-expansion-release-date-extr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/25/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-confirms-expansion-release-date-extr/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Get ready to return to the high seas, as Flying Lab Software and Sony Online Entertainment have announced the official release date for Pirates of the Burning Sea's first expansion. Power and Prestige will sail on August 24th due to Flying Lab's desire to polish and perfect.

The expansion, which already features quite a list of game improvements, will also debut with a new career rewards exchange shop, a junk buyer exchange shop, and client-side preferences for auto-facing targets in avatar combat. When we add these to the previously announced port governance, skill revisions, career revamps, ship tweaks, avatar skill revamps, and hefty doses of new mission content, the result looks to be a premium expansion that will keep captains busy for quite some time.

You can view all the details via the official press release and expansion feature list.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea confirms expansion release date, extra features originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionflying-labflying-lab-softwarePirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbspower-and-prestigerelease-dateSOESONYSony-Online-EntertainmentSun, 25 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Avast ye landlubbers: Uncharted Waters Online ahead!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/avast-ye-landlubbers-uncharted-waters-online-ahead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/avast-ye-landlubbers-uncharted-waters-online-ahead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/avast-ye-landlubbers-uncharted-waters-online-ahead/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A month ago we heard that the folks at TECHMO KOEI are bringing Uncharted Waters Online, a three-year-old pirate MMO from Korea, to North America. As we do with all piratey things, we waved our hooks in the air and demanded that they tell us more -- or else face our ire and walk the plank. While they didn't respond to garish pirate threats, KOEI was moved by "Pretty please?" and gave us a glimpse into the high seas and low talk of this popular title.

Uncharted Waters Online is actually the latest in a long series of Uncharted Waters games, dating all the way back to a 1991 Nintendo title. Each game has dealt with a romanticized version of the Age of Exploration (14th through 16th century), and this MMO is no different. If you're familiar with games like Sid Meier's Pirates! and Pirates of the Burning Sea, you have a good idea what you're in for: trading, exploration, and a whole lot of ship-on-ship violence.

Hit the jump for a deeper look at Uncharted Waters Online!

Continue reading Avast ye landlubbers: Uncharted Waters Online ahead!

MassivelyAvast ye landlubbers: Uncharted Waters Online ahead! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age of explorationage-of-explorationfeaturedkoeikoreanintendopiratepirates-of-the-burning-seapotbssid-meiers-piratestechmo-koeiuncharted-watersuncharted-waters-onlineuwowalk-the-plankFri, 16 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PotBS's Power and Prestige expanion enters open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/potbss-power-and-prestige-expanion-enters-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/potbss-power-and-prestige-expanion-enters-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/potbss-power-and-prestige-expanion-enters-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Flying Lab Software has announced that the first expansion to their Pirates of the Burning Sea MMORPG has officially entered open beta testing. The new features, titled Power & Prestige, include Port Governance, a new fighting school called brawling, and over 60 new missions.

"Power & Prestige's closed Beta has been a great success," says Flying Lab community manager Tom Atkinson-Edwards. "The feedback from our testers has been fantastic and we're excited to show Power & Prestige to the world."

Closed beta testers as well as anyone sampling Pirates of the Burning Sea via its 14-day trial are eligible to participate in open beta activities from now through the launch in early August. Players may log into the Testbed server and experience Power & Prestige with no level-cap, as well as take part in weekend events hosted by Flying Lab.

MassivelyPotBS's Power and Prestige expanion enters open beta originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrawlingexpansionflying-lab-softwarenew-missionsopen-betaPirates-of-the-Burning-Seaport-governancepower-and-prestigesoeSony-Online-EntertainmentFri, 09 Jul 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea dev blog details expansion graphical tweaks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-dev-blog-details-expansion-graphical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-dev-blog-details-expansion-graphical/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/pirates-of-the-burning-sea-dev-blog-details-expansion-graphical/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Flying Lab Software is ramping up for the first expansion to its Pirates of the Burning Sea historical MMORPG, as the August launch of Power and Prestige is just around the corner. In a new blog on the official site, the developers talk about some of the graphical tweaks in store for ship captains everywhere, focusing in on the new avatar lighting system.

The blog talks about the technical wizardry behind the new lighting system, as well as the decisions that went into creating the system itself. "The new lighting system had to be designed within several constraints. First, the new lighting system couldn't require much artist time, because ArtCo was busy with other expansion work. Second, the new system couldn't be much more resource-intensive than the old lighting system. Third, the new system couldn't add huge amounts of data to the game's size," the blog says.

Check out the full article on the official website.

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea dev blog details expansion graphical tweaks originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-lightingdev-blogdevblogexpansionflying-labflying-lab-softwaregraphical-upgradePirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbspower-and-prestigesoeSONYSony-Online-EntertainmentMon, 05 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PotBS devs detail ship tuning, new expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/potbs-devs-detail-ship-tuning-new-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/potbs-devs-detail-ship-tuning-new-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/potbs-devs-detail-ship-tuning-new-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Flying Lab Software, developers of the historical naval combat MMORPG known as Pirates of the Burning Sea, have released a new devblog detailing the ship-tuning options soon to be available in August's Power and Prestige expansion. The blog zeroes in on ship archetypes, including discussion about the considerable changes in store for scouts, warships, and merchants.

Flying Lab are serious about leveling the playing field and bringing balance to the game's ship combat, but they're also taking into account historical and authenticity concerns. "Before everyone mentions warships going 35 knots, please remember this key fact: we've added stacking penalties on ship outfitting. We've tuned ships (and skills) with this in mind, as we expect ships to be outfitted more reasonably, and less to one extreme or another," the devblog states.

The piece goes on to talk a bit about the desire for "vanilla" ships on the open sea as opposed to the relatively common high-end ships that most veterans possess. You can view the full article on the game's official website.

MassivelyPotBS devs detail ship tuning, new expansion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaexpansionflying-labflying-lab-softwaremerchantsnaval-combatPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapotbspower-and-prestige-expansionscoutsship-combatship-tuningtradersMon, 21 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST