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[Flameseeker Chronicles: Five things to love about Lion's Arch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/flameseeker-chronicles-five-things-to-love-about-lions-arch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/flameseeker-chronicles-five-things-to-love-about-lions-arch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/flameseeker-chronicles-five-things-to-love-about-lions-arch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 concept art
Lion's Arch, the quintessential Tyrian player hub, has undergone quite the extensive renovation for Guild Wars 2. As a special treat for the last beta weekend, the city was made explorable to players for the first time -- and what a treat it was! After the Rise of Orr and the accompanying land shift, Lion's Arch as we knew and loved it in the original Guild Wars was flooded. It has been raised anew, very near the first city, and stands as a monument to piracy, desperation, and inter-species cooperation (not, perhaps, in that order).

So what makes Lion's Arch awesome? It's one of six huge cities that are the thriving populatiion centers of Tyria as we find it in Guild Wars 2, and since it doesn't have one single race to lend it culture and purpose, you can bet it had better be pretty special.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Five things to love about Lion's Arch

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Five things to love about Lion's Arch originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcitydiving-boardfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2hublalions-archncsoftnew-lions-archopinionpiratespiratitudequaggantrailertrailersvideovideosTue, 08 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 creator announces new game: Pirate101]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/wizard101-creator-announces-new-game-pirate101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/wizard101-creator-announces-new-game-pirate101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/wizard101-creator-announces-new-game-pirate101/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Image
Ahoy, maties! Put down your wands and grab the nearest parrot, for you're about to head out onto the high seas with KingsIsle! The makers of the hit Wizard101 have announced their next project: the swashbuckling world of Pirate101.

Using a similar business model, full voice-over, same universe and same art style as Wizard101, KingsIsle is fashioning a unique pirate game with its second MMO. Players get to choose one of five classes for their piratey career: Buccaneer, Witchdoctor, Privateer, Swashbuckler, or Musketeer. No matter what they pick, players will captain their own flying (yes, flying) ships and take off for adventure in fantastic environments such as skyways, lost cities of gold, and ancient ruins. There will also be companions to pick up along the way for use in combat, and players can naturally join forces to complete quests and battle the oppressing force threatening the world.

Creative Director Todd Coleman thinks that this free-to-play title stretches the studio's imagination and reach. "We've created a world of treacherous pirates, faithful companions, tactical battles and gorgeous environments," he says. "Pirate101 fuses the key lessons we've learned from Wizard101 with entirely new design, setting and gameplay mechanics. We've succeeded in creating a game that is very different from Wizard101, but remains comfortable and familiar."

Pirate101 is currently in alpha and will be released in 2012. Watch for our upcoming interview with KingsIsle coming soon!

Gallery: Pirate101


[Source: KingsIsle Entertainment press release]

MassivelyWizard101 creator announces new game: Pirate101 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Buccaneerf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgallerykid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentMusketeerpiratepirate101piratesPrivateerscreenshotscreenshotsSwashbucklerTodd-ColemanWitchdoctorwizard101Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:30:00 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[Yarr! ArcheAge CBT4 video shows player piracy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/yarr-archeage-cbt4-video-shows-player-piracy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/yarr-archeage-cbt4-video-shows-player-piracy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/yarr-archeage-cbt4-video-shows-player-piracy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - a pirate's life for me
Fancy being a pirate in the fantasy world of ArcheAge? You can, and all it takes is a ship and a crew of your best mates.

A new player-made video shows off the game's naval combat potential, and the clip is basically three minutes of jaw-dropping PvP action. There's plenty of carnage courtesy of player-manned ship cannons and destructible hulls, and we can also see combatants crossing swords on the decks of enemy ships (if you look closely you'll catch a glimpse of a player using a hang-glider to travel from one ship to the next).

The video also gives us a good look at ArcheAge's functional ship rigging, and you can see players unfurling sails, interacting with various ship controls, and even climbing a mast to the crow's nest. Check it out after the break.

Continue reading Yarr! ArcheAge CBT4 video shows player piracy

MassivelyYarr! ArcheAge CBT4 video shows player piracy originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archeagecbt4closed-betafantasykorean-betakorean-closed-betanaval-combatpiracypiratessandboxsandparkship-combatvideoxl-gamesxlgamesyarrTue, 21 Feb 2012 10:00:00 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 SOPAbox: Defeating online piracy by destroying the internet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/the-sopabox-defeating-online-piracy-by-destroying-the-internet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/the-sopabox-defeating-online-piracy-by-destroying-the-internet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/the-sopabox-defeating-online-piracy-by-destroying-the-internet/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Soapbox title image
Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

Unless you've been living under a rock, chances are you've heard of SOPA and PIPA. The Stop Online Piracy Act and PROTECT IP Act are two radical pieces of copyright legislation currently being pushed through the US government. Although the stated intent of the new legislation is to provide companies with additional tools with which to combat piracy, the bill's loose wording has raised some serious alarm bells. Opponents to the proposed law say it would give corporations the ability to shut down any almost any website under the guise of protecting copyright infringement.

Gamers will be affected worst of all, as the loose wording of the law makes any website with user-submitted content potentially vulnerable to a shut down order. That could include YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, any blog with a comment section, or even any online game with a chat system. Perhaps the scariest part is that you'll be affected even if you're not in the US, as one of the new law's enforcement mechanisms is to remove a site from the DNS records, a move that assumes the US has jurisdiction over the global Domain Name System. AOL is among many huge companies strongly opposing SOPA, and so naturally Massively opposes it too.

In this week's massive two-page Soapbox, I make the case for why you should be worried about SOPA, and I suggest what can be done to tackle piracy in the games industry. Comments can be left on page two.

Continue reading The SOPAbox: Defeating online piracy by destroying the internet

MassivelyThe SOPAbox: Defeating online piracy by destroying the internet originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brendan-draincopyrightcopyright-infringementdnsdnssecdomaindomain-namesfeaturedfirst-amendmentfree-speechfreedom-of-speechgovernmenti-dont-want-to-live-on-this-planet-any-moreillegalintellectual-propertyiplawlegalmiscMiscellaneousnyphurpiracypiratesprotect-ipsoapboxsoapbox-brendan-drainsopasopaboxthe-soapboxthe-sopaboxus-governmentvideoTue, 10 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer Online details upcoming Invasion of Pirates expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/conquer-online-details-upcoming-invasion-of-pirates-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/conquer-online-details-upcoming-invasion-of-pirates-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/conquer-online-details-upcoming-invasion-of-pirates-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Conquer Online
Conquer Online, NetDragon's free-to-play fantasy MMO, is getting a taste of the high seas come January 11th as the team launches the game's newest expansion, Invasion of Pirates. The expansion will introduce the new Pirate class, which will allow players to use new weapons and abilities while also finally letting them take sides in a real Pirates vs. Ninjas battle.

The Pirate class itself can utilize pistols and rapiers, and its abilities rely on stamina, "with many of the skills requiring a cooldown period." As such, the key to winning a battle as a Pirate is, according to the press release, determined by how well a player can string the Pirate's attacks, buffs, and other abilities into an effective combo. The studio adds that while the Pirate will certainly have a steep learning curve, "with a little strategy and know-how, the new class can easily become the most deadly in PvP battles." For the full details on the new expansion, or to get in on the action yourself, head on over to Conquer Online's official site.

MassivelyConquer Online details upcoming Invasion of Pirates expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classconquerconquer-onlineexpansionexpansionsf2pfree-to-playinvasion-of-piratesnetdragonnew-classpatchpatchespiratepirate-classpiratesWed, 04 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer Online's Invasion of Pirates expansion slated for January]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/conquer-onlines-invasion-of-pirates-expansion-slated-for-januar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/conquer-onlines-invasion-of-pirates-expansion-slated-for-januar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/conquer-onlines-invasion-of-pirates-expansion-slated-for-januar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Conquer Online - dark stories are hiding in EACH WEAPON, ZOMG!!
Last week we told you about Conquer Online's migration to the iPad. This week, it's time for a bit of info on the game's newest expansion. The Invasion of Pirates update will feature a new Pirate class (yeah, it shocked us too) and a new adventuring zone called the Flaming Sea.

NetDragon is also gifting players with additional abilities, among them new cannon bomb and pistol skills that are a must for any Pirate. The company's press release is light on gameplay details, but it does promise "an epic journey full of hidden treasure, ancient evils, dangerous traps and other mysterious challenges [that] await new and old players alike."

Invasion of Pirates is scheduled to sail sometime in January of 2012.

[Source: NetDragon press release]

MassivelyConquer Online's Invasion of Pirates expansion slated for January originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquer-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyflaming-seafree-to-playinvasion-of-piratesnet-dragonnetdragonpirate-classpiratesThu, 15 Dec 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer Online's upcoming expansion introduces new zone, Pirate class]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/conquer-onlines-upcoming-expansion-introduces-new-zone-pirate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/conquer-onlines-upcoming-expansion-introduces-new-zone-pirate/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/conquer-onlines-upcoming-expansion-introduces-new-zone-pirate/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Art -- Conquer Online
Watch yer booty, mateys! No, I meant your treasure, you freaks. Jeeze. NetDragon WebSoft has announced a new expansion for its free-to-play MMORPG, Conquer Online. This update does what it says on the tin: Invasion of Pirates. Players will find themselves on a brand-new map, facing off against new monsters, discovering new quests, and playing the Pirate class.

The new class brings an entirely new playstyle with new weapons and abilities to use. And players will need every bit of firepower they can get, as bands of evil pirates arrive upon a newly discovered island in search of a dark and mysterious treasure. Of course, it's up to players to ensure that the pirates do not succeed in their mission. The expansion will go live in January 2012, so you've got plenty of time to head over to the game's official site and sign up.

[Source: NetDragon WebSoft press release]

MassivelyConquer Online's upcoming expansion introduces new zone, Pirate class originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classconquer-onlineexpansionf2pfree-to-playinvasion-of-piratesnetdragonnetdragon-websoftnetdragon-websoft-incnew-classpiratepiratesThu, 01 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Kultan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/rise-and-shiny-recap-kultan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/rise-and-shiny-recap-kultan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/02/rise-and-shiny-recap-kultan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Kultan screenshot
Bigpoint's latest browser-based game is called Kultan, and it's a game that does plenty to show that the developer is continuing to push the boundaries of what a browser and the Unity engine can do. It's always comforting to have somewhere to point people when they ask, "A browser MMO? What's that?" I imagine that Bigpoint is not planning on stopping anytime soon, and Kultan will take its place as one of the rungs in a very tall ladder.

How important will Kultan be considered in the future of Bigpoint's portfolio? In some ways, very important. In other ways, I can see it losing itself in an endless line of kill-10-rats grinders, but we'll talk more about that.

Click past the cut and let's cover the details.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Kultan

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Kultan originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanBigpointbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpglitchkultanLiveStreamPiratesrise-and-shinytiny-speckvideoSun, 02 Oct 2011 16:00:00 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[Picaroon introduces Nation's Challenge contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/picaroon-introduces-nations-challenge-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/picaroon-introduces-nations-challenge-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/picaroon-introduces-nations-challenge-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fancy yourself a pirate? Picaroon is inviting you to put your money where your mouth is via a new contest called the Nation's Challenge. The pirate-themed MMORTS from Nice Technology is hosting a global battle royale to determine which nation is the "biggest bunch of pirates."

Nice's latest press release outlines the prizes on offer, and first-, second-, and third-place winners will take home 5,000, 2,000, and 1,000 doubloons (Picaroon's in-game currency) respectively. Members of the winning alliance will also pocket 300 doubloons.

The contest started yesterday, so don't delay in getting your team together, and be sure to check out the official rules on the Picaroon forums.

MassivelyPicaroon introduces Nation's Challenge contest originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestf2pfantasyfree-to-playin-game-eventmmortsnations-challengenicenice-technologypicaroonpiratespress-releasertsyarrrrrrFri, 05 Aug 2011 11:00:00 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[U.S. Navy fights piracy with MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/u-s-navy-fights-piracy-with-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/u-s-navy-fights-piracy-with-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/u-s-navy-fights-piracy-with-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The U.S. Navy has a new tool in its war against piracy on the high seas: MMOs. Specifically, the Massive Multiplayer Online WarGame Leveraging the Internet, or "MMOWGLI" if you like your awkward acronyms. Developed over several years to bring war simulations to the next level, MMOWGLI will go online May 16th and be used by civilians and military to figure out new ways to combat Somali pirates.

This unique MMO was developed by the Office of Naval Research to be used as a flexible training platform. Under the watch of a control team, players will secure and arm ships, plan for a variety of pirate attacks, figure out hostage situations, and raid pirate camps. There's no word on whether these raids will be 10, 20, or 40-mans.

ONR's Dr. Larry Schutte looks forward to seeing if this simulator will result in better preparedness: "We hope MMOWGLI will help us to understand what happens when your insights are combined with the observations and actions of another player -- will that fusion result in a game-changing idea or solution, or will the MMOWGLI platform teach us something about our traditional thought processes?"

MassivelyU.S. Navy fights piracy with MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Larry-SchutteMassive-Multiplayer-Online-WarGame-Leveraging-the-InternetMMOWGLInavyno-johnson-you-cant-keep-the-lootoffice-of-naval-researchonrpiracypiratepiratesraidssomali-piratesus-navywar-simulatorwargamingWed, 11 May 2011 09:00:00 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[Tales of Pirates II preparing in-game PvP event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/tales-of-pirates-ii-preparing-in-game-pvp-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/tales-of-pirates-ii-preparing-in-game-pvp-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/tales-of-pirates-ii-preparing-in-game-pvp-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Professionally game-mastered events have gotten somewhat rarer as the MMORPG genre has matured, so we're always happy to highlight them. Today we've received word that IGG GMs will be holding court in Tales of Pirates II on April 28th, and players can expect a bit of action and mayhem as the event pits friend and foe against one another in a competition for numerous in-game rewards.

The GM will appear next to the PvP map entrance at 10:00 p.m. EDT and will sell Lucky Cards that mark players as friends or foes. The opposing teams will do battle, with the respective objectives revolving around protecting or killing the GM. At the event's conclusion, winning Lucky Cards may be redeemed accordingly.

Tales of Pirates II is a free-to-play fantasy MMO in which players navigate a large game world that spans both land and sea. The game features four playable characters as well as a customizable job system and real-time land and sea battles. Head to the official website to learn more and download the client.

MassivelyTales of Pirates II preparing in-game PvP event originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgm-eventsiggin-game-eventin-game-eventsland-battleslucky-cardspiratespress-releasepvpsea-battlestales-of-pirates-2tales-of-pirates-IIMon, 25 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Faxion Online commercial gets to the heart of conflict]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/faxion-online-commercial-gets-to-the-heart-of-conflict/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/faxion-online-commercial-gets-to-the-heart-of-conflict/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/faxion-online-commercial-gets-to-the-heart-of-conflict/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"We know conflict," a new ad for Faxion Online says, and boy do they ever! The tongue-in-cheek spot shows a fictional (or is it?) day at UTV True Games, where a frisky pirate and an arrogant ninja happen to walk into the same elevator. What happens next can only be seen, not described, although we would not blame you for weeping out of awe.

The commercial highlights the spirit of PvP that lies at the core of Faxion Online, an upcoming MMO that pits angelic players vs. their demonic counterparts. The same sense of humor that comes through in this ad runs rampant throughout the game, as players war over zones themed after the seven deadly sins.

Currently, Faxion is in open beta. You can watch the full carnage of this video after the jump.

Continue reading Faxion Online commercial gets to the heart of conflict

MassivelyFaxion Online commercial gets to the heart of conflict originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angelscomedycommercialconflictdemonsfaxionfaxion-onlinehumormy-money-is-on-the-pirateninjaninjaspiratepiratespvputvutv-ignitionutv-ignition-gamesutv-true-gamesvideozombiezombiesWed, 20 Apr 2011 15:00:00 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[Massively's Exclusive TERA screenshots: Pirates and BAMs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/massivelys-exclusive-tera-screenshots-pirates-and-bams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/massivelys-exclusive-tera-screenshots-pirates-and-bams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/massivelys-exclusive-tera-screenshots-pirates-and-bams/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Massively's got a pair of new TERA exclusives coming your way this week, the first of which deals with both BAMs (En Masse Entertainment parlance for big-ass monsters) and pirates. With all due respect to the ninja fans in the audience, pirates reign supreme, particularly the Arborean pirates on display in our new screenshots. These cultured gents are representatives of the Red Lash and are composed mainly of Castanic rogues that do the bidding of their Gula overseers.

That's right, the BAMs are running the show, as the cutthroat and corpulent Gulas currently direct the buccaneers that make up the rank and file of the Red Lash.

Head past the cut for some pirate and BAM-flavored lore, and don't forget to check out the four exclusive new screens in our gallery below.

Gallery: TERA screenshots

Continue reading Massively's Exclusive TERA screenshots: Pirates and BAMs

MassivelyMassively's Exclusive TERA screenshots: Pirates and BAMs originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bamsbig-ass-monstersblueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivefantasyfeaturedgallerygulagulasloremonsterspiratesred-lashscreenshotsteratera-onlineMon, 11 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Puzzle Pirates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/27/rise-and-shiny-recap-puzzle-pirates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/27/rise-and-shiny-recap-puzzle-pirates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/27/rise-and-shiny-recap-puzzle-pirates/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Puzzles Pirates is pretty deceiving when you first look at it. The decade-old game looks closer to what you might have expected from LEGO Universe than it does a strategic, puzzle-based combat game. But as you get more into the basics of the game, you realize that many of the tricks up Puzzle Pirate's sleeve would be awesome if featured in other games. The puzzles are integrated into your experience flawlessly, and the grouping system is wonderful.

In fact, I couldn't stop thinking about why other games don't feature systems like those in Puzzle Pirates. Name me a game that does group combat, ship combat or even crafting based on puzzles! I think that the perceived silliness of puzzles, or the perceived juvenile nature of puzzles, keeps them out of popular developer's minds. It's not as though raiding or other group activities in other games are high art or much more than a very basic puzzle. Stand here, push that. Repeat. Now move. Push that, followed by this. Repeat.

So let's look at how Puzzle Pirates plays, how the community members fare, and what issues I did have with this brilliant puzzler. Click past the cut!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Puzzle Pirates

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Puzzle Pirates originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumftpLiveStreamPiratespuzzlepuzzle-piratespuzzlesrise-and-shinythree-ringsthree-rings-designyarryohohoSun, 27 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Fashion show! Fashion show! Fashion show at lunch!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/the-road-to-mordor-fashion-show-fashion-show-fashion-show-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/the-road-to-mordor-fashion-show-fashion-show-fashion-show-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/the-road-to-mordor-fashion-show-fashion-show-fashion-show-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Major patch weeks are always a great deal of fun in Lord of the Rings Online as everyone digs into the new content, looks for hidden gems, and goes on grand new adventures. As much as I appreciate most everything in this week's Echoes of the Dead update, I have to say that, hands-down, the additional outfit slots made me the happiest.

Yes, I'm weird, but I can't be the only one who had an inner squeal of joy when Turbine announced that it was going to expand (via the store) the number of outfit spots from two to five. I've always, always loved the outfit system in this game as a way to give my characters a unique and aesthetically pleasing look versus having to stare at the mismatched armor they seem to pick up along the way.

In celebration of the additional outfit slots, I wanted to finally dig into the outfit system and look at the basics of Middle-earth fashion: where you get these pieces, how colors come into play, and where you might go for inspiration. So let's put on our finest frippery and strut the catwalk, ladies and gentlemen!

(I promise, next week I'll be much more manly. Probably.)

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Fashion show! Fashion show! Fashion show at lunch!

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Fashion show! Fashion show! Fashion show at lunch! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction-housecolor-wheelechoes-of-the-deadered-luin-bluefall-festivalfeaturedfestivalgandalfhauberkindiana-joneslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-storemiddle-earthmr-potato-headoutfitoutfit-systemoutfitsoutfitterpatch-weekpiratepiratessafari-hatspring-festivalthe-fellowship-of-the-ringthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentwardrobeFri, 25 Mar 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crashing the parrrty: DDO's producer joins the fifth anniversary festivities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/crashing-the-parrrty-ddos-producer-joins-the-fifth-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/crashing-the-parrrty-ddos-producer-joins-the-fifth-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/crashing-the-parrrty-ddos-producer-joins-the-fifth-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

What's better: birthdays or pirates? For Dungeons and Dragons Online Executive Prodicer Fernando Paiz, both are equally awesome, which is why DDO's fifth anniversary is smoothered in secret pirate sauce.

In a birthday letter to DDO's playerbase, Paiz gushes about the game's accomplishments over the past half-decade, including its action-based combat, DX11 graphics and free-to-play transition. But all that is the past, as he talks up the myriad of in-game events that are currently happening in the game, which include fighting off pirates, collecting lost goodies and claiming your rightful booty.

Paiz also expressed excitement about DDO's future, starting with the European F2P edition that's coming soon to the international community. He also hints at several developments that are coming down the pike for the game, such as a new crafting system, high-level adventure packs, and a never-before-seen content system.

You can read the full producer's letter over at DDO.

MassivelyCrashing the parrrty: DDO's producer joins the fifth anniversary festivities originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-anniversary5th-birthdayadventure-packsanniversaryanniversary-eventbirthdaybooty-is-a-funny-wordddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinedx11fernando-paizfifth-anniversarypiratesturbineturbine-entertainmentMon, 28 Feb 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Picaroon heads into the open waters of open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/picaroon-heads-into-the-open-waters-of-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/picaroon-heads-into-the-open-waters-of-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/picaroon-heads-into-the-open-waters-of-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Picaroon, the pirate MMORTS with an attitude (and a mild case of scurvy), has now walked off the gangplank into the depths of open beta. We've been following this title since last October when Picaroon announced its closed beta, and now it's available for all to check out, test and see if it be as worthy as a salty sea dog.

Nice Technology's Toby Simpson thinks the game has a broad appeal: "We're excited about open beta and look forward to welcoming new members to our growing community of Picaroon fans. Picaroon has strategies for all: builders, attackers, defenders and diplomats."

Set in a futuristic water world (no, not the Kevin Costner one) where empires clash over the few remaining patches of land, Picaroon tasks players with building up fleets and setting sail for adventures. Nice Technology has designed the game to include three modes depending on your time constraints: hour-long skirmishes, two-week struggles, and a persistent war. Fighting isn't the only way to victory, as Picaroon offers players the options for diplomacy as well.

You can check out the open beta by heading over to Picaroon's site.

Gallery: Picaroon

MassivelyPicaroon heads into the open waters of open beta originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betafuturistic-pirates-wutkevin-costnermmortsnice-technologyopen-betapicaroonpiratesrated-arrrrrreal-time-strategyrtstoby-simpsonwater-worldwaterworldWed, 09 Feb 2011 10:00:00 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[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[Angels Online takes flight on the wings of Gryphons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/angels-online-takes-flight-on-the-wings-of-gryphons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/angels-online-takes-flight-on-the-wings-of-gryphons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/angels-online-takes-flight-on-the-wings-of-gryphons/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Sorting Hat has spoken, and Angels Online has joined Gryffindor House (sorry, we watched Harry Potter this past weekend)! The dev team is happy to announce the addition of Gryphon pets to the game -- pets that appear to do double duty as mounts.

The Gryphon is the guardian and main symbol of the Aurora Faction in the game, and represents speed and power. However, over time, the Gryphon has become a myth to the people, unseen and unbelieved. This changed as the Gryphon appeared during the pirate siege of Aurora City to save the day. A few "nom noms" later, and the pirate threat was history.

Characters will now have access to this powerful beast, who will offer them a huge boost to movement speed and player attributes when used. To check out Angels Online's new Gryphon, head on over to the site and explore the game for free.

MassivelyAngels Online takes flight on the wings of Gryphons originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angels-onlineaurora-cityaurora-factiongryffindorgryphonharry-potteriggigg.commountmountsnom-nompetpetspiratesTue, 23 Nov 2010 17:00:00 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[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[Grog and drunken sailors arrive in Guild Wars for Talk Like a Pirate event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/grog-and-drunken-sailors-arrive-in-guild-wars-for-talk-like-a-pi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/grog-and-drunken-sailors-arrive-in-guild-wars-for-talk-like-a-pi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/grog-and-drunken-sailors-arrive-in-guild-wars-for-talk-like-a-pi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ahoy there, Cap'n Tightpants!

No, you haven't wandered into a Firefly revival, that's just one of the nonsensical phrases your Guild Wars character will spout while under the influence of pirate grog. If you're (un)lucky enough to have post-processing effects turned on, you'll get an eye-spraining visual effect too, as seen above.

So where do you find this wonderful stuff? Luckily for you, ArenaNet is about to kick off its annual Talk Like a Pirate event and acquiring grog is as easy as killing a level two grawl. PvE enemies throughout the world will be dropping grog beginning at noon PDT Friday, and you'll find that the NPCs in Lion's Arch and Kamadan are joining the festivities as well. They've got a swashbuckling new look, and if you take a moment to chat with them, you'll find some interesting dialogue as well.

If you need a place to store all the extra grog, ArenaNet's got you covered. A surprise update today introduced a sale in the NCsoft store, and extra Xunlai storage tabs are now half-price. The tabs are marked at $4.99 rather than their usual $9.99, and it's listed as a limited-time offer, so hurry and get your grog storage tab!

The Talk Like a Pirate event lasts through Tuesday the 21st, and the storage pane sale ends the 19th.

MassivelyGrog and drunken sailors arrive in Guild Wars for Talk Like a Pirate event originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarrrrdrunkguild-warsgwin-game-eventncsoftpiratesTalk-Like-A-Piratetalk-like-a-pirate-dayWed, 15 Sep 2010 21:00:00 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[Captains of DarkTide enters open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/captains-of-darktide-enters-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/captains-of-darktide-enters-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/captains-of-darktide-enters-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Captains of DarkTide, the quirky pirate-slash-fantasy MMO introduced back in May, is finally ready for open beta as of today.

The game has undergone quite a few changes and improvements in the past months as the devs worked on every area of the game. Basic game glitches along the way have been fixed, of course, but much more has been improved as well. Crafting and inventory have been greatly simplified. Enemies have been rebalanced and combat changed to make battles a bit less frustrating.

If you've been participating in closed beta, there was a full character wipe so you'll be starting fresh with today's open beta. If you're new to Captains of DarkTide, it's browser-based, available on both PC and Mac, and free-to-play, so giving it a try couldn't be easier.

MassivelyCaptains of DarkTide enters open beta originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrowser-basedcaptains-of-dark-tidecaptains-of-darktidecodtf2pfantasyfree-to-playftpmacopen-betapiratessilverlodesilverlode-interactiveTue, 03 Aug 2010 21:00:00 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[First Impressions: LEGO Universe's Gnarled Forest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/first-impressions-lego-universes-gnarled-forest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/first-impressions-lego-universes-gnarled-forest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/first-impressions-lego-universes-gnarled-forest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Yarr matey, are ye lookin' for more information on NetDevil's upcomin' MMO, LEGO Universe, then we've got a treat for you today! In an interesting move, the team at NetDevil has decided to drop the NDA one zone at a time, thereby allowing us to give you some early impressions of the game while it's still in beta. With that said, I must reinforce that due to the game being in beta, some of this may well change. Nonetheless, the story should still hold true -- and it's a story chock full of pirates, monkeys, bananas and other bizarre things you might expect to find in a place called the Gnarled Forest.

Before we start, I should perhaps explain a bit about the game's known back-story for those who haven't been watching too closely. The idea is that this dark force known as Maelstrom Energy (that's the weird purple glowy funk you see spread throughout these screenshots) has corrupted certain parts of the LEGO universe, and it's your job to help stop it. In the case of the Gnarled Forest, ships full of pirates touched down on the nearby beach and after adventuring into the forest, found large cracks in the ground that contained glowing purple crystals. Being pirates, they figured the glowing purple crystals were probably valuable gems. So, they greedily stuffed them into their pockets and treasure chests, only to wind up witless, mutated minions of this dark force.

Curious? Join me for more on LEGO Universe's Gnarled Forest behind the break, and be sure to check out the screenshots in the gallery below too!

Gallery: First Impressions: LEGO Universe

Continue reading First Impressions: LEGO Universe's Gnarled Forest

MassivelyFirst Impressions: LEGO Universe's Gnarled Forest originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bananabetacollection-questsdeath-penaltyfeaturedfifirst-impressionsgazillion-entertainmentgnarled-forestlegolego-universemaelstrommonkeynetdevilninjaspiratepiratesquick-buildMon, 19 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Set sail for Uncharted Waters Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/set-sail-for-uncharted-waters-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/set-sail-for-uncharted-waters-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/set-sail-for-uncharted-waters-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Look out, Pirates of the Burning Sea -- there's a new challenger on the high seas! Publisher CJ Internet and developer TECHMO KOEI are bringing Uncharted Waters Online to North American and European shores after a three-year run in Japan and Korea. Set during the Age of Exploration (1400s-1600s), players will pilot ships, conquer cities and engage in a complex economy, all in an effort to propel their chosen nation to victory. Because it is three years old, this free-to-play title should offer a greater amount of stability and content than most new MMOs.

It looks as if there's a decent amount of character options in Uncharted Waters Online as well. Players can pledge allegiance to one of six nations -- England, Dutch Republic, Ancient Régime in France, Spanish Empire, Kingdom of Portugal, and Republic of Venice -- and live the life of an adventurer, merchant or soldier. The combat and conquest aspect of the game has a tight symbiotic relationship with the economy; for example, if you want lower taxes in port, it's best if your country's flag is flying above it.

We'll be seeing more about this title at E3, but in the meantime you can check out the teaser trailer after the jump and our gallery full of screenshots and concept art:

Gallery: Uncharted Waters Online

Continue reading Set sail for Uncharted Waters Online

MassivelySet sail for Uncharted Waters Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-explorationage-of-sailcj-internete3f2pfree-to-playpiratesPirates-of-the-Burning-Seatechmo-koeiuncharted-waters-onlineFri, 11 Jun 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Ratting, part 2: Flying safe!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/30/eve-evolved-ratting-part-2-flying-safe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/30/eve-evolved-ratting-part-2-flying-safe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/30/eve-evolved-ratting-part-2-flying-safe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Last week I discussed the basics of the "ratting" profession in EVE Online, from picking a good system to three popular ratting strategies. If you're planning to hunt NPCs in nullsec, of course, you'll need to get there first. Pilots who aren't in an alliance with secure access to nullsec will have to run the gauntlet from empire space to their chosen ratting system. The entry points into EVE's nullsec regions are often camped during peak hours and you can expect to run into roaming gangs. Things get a little easier once you're at your destination, but you can still expect to see the occasional pilot or gang passing through the system. Your ability to get into nullsec safely and your efficiency at ratting will be determined largely by the ship you're using and how it's set up. For someone who's never been to nullsec before, setting up a ship for the task and heading into the void can be a daunting task.

In this article, I look at selecting the appropriate ship for ratting, some popular ship setups and important safety tips that will help keep your ship safe in hostile territory.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Ratting, part 2: Flying safe!

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Ratting, part 2: Flying safe! originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 30 May 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angel-cartelblood-raiderbubbleccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedguidesisknpcnpcspiratespveratsrattingsanshaserpentistipsSun, 30 May 2010 18:00:00 EST