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[En Masse 'communicating directly with retailers' over TERA pre-order blunders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/en-masse-communicating-directly-with-retailers-over-tera-pre-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/en-masse-communicating-directly-with-retailers-over-tera-pre-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/en-masse-communicating-directly-with-retailers-over-tera-pre-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA - Collector's Edition retail package
Those of you who've been waiting to pull the trigger on a TERA pre-order because of the uncertainty over retail collector's edition versions of the game will have to wait a little longer. En Masse Entertainment's Evan "Scapes" Berman posted an official statement on the TERA website a short time ago that basically says the company is aware of the problem but has no time-table for fixing it.

In a nutshell, the En Masse website has been advertising physical collector's edition packages for the better part of a week, but when gamers go to the various retail partner websites listed on the page, the CEs are nowhere to be found. Some TERA fans are a bit anxious because pre-ordering guarantees a slot in the fast-approaching closed beta period, and the only alternative thus far is to buy a digital version of the game directly from En Masse.

MassivelyEn Masse 'communicating directly with retailers' over TERA pre-order blunders originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreaen-masseen-masse-entertainmentevan-bermanfantasyprpre-orderingpre-ordersscapessnafuteratera-collectors-editiontera-retail-collectors-editionMon, 06 Feb 2012 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon bumps up SWTOR shipping schedule]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/amazon-bumps-up-swtor-shipping-schedule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/amazon-bumps-up-swtor-shipping-schedule/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/amazon-bumps-up-swtor-shipping-schedule/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Wars: The Old Republic - Pizza the hutt
If you pre-ordered your copy of Star Wars: The Old Republic from Amazon and are fretting over being locked out of the game until you receive your copy, fret no more.

The online retailer has issued a statement saying that it's going to ship BioWare's new sci-fi MMO earlier than expected due to the change in the title's release schedule. Amazon says that customers need take no action, as order updates and shipping times will be handled internally and posted to your account order page.

The company has also published a handy list of receiving dates that correspond to your selected shipping method, and you can find that and more on Amazon.com.

[Thanks to Brady for the tip!]

MassivelyAmazon bumps up SWTOR shipping schedule originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbiowareea-biowareearly-releaseelectronic-artspre-ordersretail-boxsci-fishippingstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-shippingthe-old-republictorThu, 15 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GAME announces exclusive SWTOR CE contract, Walmart accidentally cancels 'nearly all' pre-orders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/game-to-exclusively-sell-swtor-ce-in-the-uk-walmart-accidentall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/game-to-exclusively-sell-swtor-ce-in-the-uk-walmart-accidentall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/game-to-exclusively-sell-swtor-ce-in-the-uk-walmart-accidentall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Walmart
Whenever a major MMO nears launch, tensions and anxieties grow to a fever pitch among players -- particularly in regard to their pre-orders. There are worries that a game won't install right, ship on time, or allow proper access to one's account. Today, there are a few more issues to be concerned with in regard to Star Wars: The Old Republic if you've pre-ordered it.

Over in the UK, GAME (and Gamestation) has announced that it will be the sole retailer for SWTOR's physical Collector's Edition in the region, even though EA previously said that companies such as Amazon, Play.com, Zavvi and ShopTo were going to be selling them as well. UK players can also purchase non-CE versions of the game through EA's Origin service.

In other news, several players who secured their copy of SWTOR through Walmart found that their orders -- both regular and CEs -- were canceled over this past weekend. A Walmart customer service representative appeared on the SWTOR forums to say that this happened due to a "data error" that forced the company to nix most of the pre-orders. SWTOR's Stephen Reid said that BioWare is investigating the situation, but he confirms that any players who have already added their pre-order codes into their accounts will have locked in early access for the launch.

MassivelyGAME announces exclusive SWTOR CE contract, Walmart accidentally cancels 'nearly all' pre-orders originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbiowarecancelcancelleddata-erroreaea-biowareelectronic-artsgamegamestationpre-orderpre-orderspreorderpreordersstar-wars-the-old-republicstephen-reidswtorwalmartwookiee-rageMon, 05 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Early access pre-order hooray edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/ask-massively-early-access-pre-order-hooray-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/ask-massively-early-access-pre-order-hooray-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/28/ask-massively-early-access-pre-order-hooray-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We could pretend that the important story of last week was something other than the launch of pre-orders for Star Wars: The Old Republic, but that would be a lie. I know I went straight down to pre-order my copy as soon as I was done with some work in the morning. As usual, it wasn't without controversy -- issues over staggered pre-order releases, limited quantities, and my personal favorite, the fear that it might include some sort of microtransactions in its business model. You know, like every other major subscription game on the market.

Before you ask, I got the regular edition. I'm not paying three times the price for a statue.

Anyway, this week's Ask Massively is pretty heavily tied into the pre-order talk, what with questions about release dates and the state of no-trial launches. As always, you can feel free to ask a question for a future installment of the column via mail to ask@massively.com, or you can just toss your question in the happy comment field below.

Continue reading Ask Massively: Early access pre-order hooray edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: Early access pre-order hooray edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-massivelybiowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtorcolumneaelectronic-artsfeaturedgame-trialslucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgopinionpre-ordersreleaserelease-datesstar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-old-republictrialsThu, 28 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Did BioWare make the right call?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/the-daily-grind-did-bioware-make-the-right-call/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/the-daily-grind-did-bioware-make-the-right-call/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/the-daily-grind-did-bioware-make-the-right-call/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BioWare made something of a stink last week with its decision to limit Star Wars: The Old Republic pre-orders (both in terms of total numbers and in certain regions around the world). Here at Massively, we received dozens of angry emails entreating us to take up the cause of the common gamer.

While limits on digital goods do seem a bit artificial, it's also worth noting that recent popular MMO releases were beset with server overcrowding and lengthy login queues (we're thinking of both Aion and RIFT here).

BioWare ruffled quite a few fan feathers with its actions, but from the outside looking in, it's difficult to determine what the company could have done differently. That's where you come in, and this edition of The Daily Grind is all about your reaction to Star Wars: The Old Republic pre-orders, load limits, and regional publishing. Do you think BioWare made the right call?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Did BioWare make the right call? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareea-biowareelectronic-artsgame-discussiongamer-discussionload-limitsmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopinionpre-ordersregionsserver-queuesstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortdgthe-daily-grindMon, 25 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II's Destiny of Velious offers a trio of pre-orders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/everquest-iis-destiny-of-velious-offers-a-trio-of-pre-orders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/everquest-iis-destiny-of-velious-offers-a-trio-of-pre-orders/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/19/everquest-iis-destiny-of-velious-offers-a-trio-of-pre-orders/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Which way would you like your EverQuest II: Destiny of Velious expansion pack? Sunny-side up? With fries? Medium-rare? If you like options, then SOE's assortment of pre-orders will have you pouring over the menu quite carefully.

Destiny of Velious became available for pre-orders yesterday, and EverQuest II's website lists three versions of the game available for purchase. The standard digital version is $39.99 and offers a loyal snow hound pet and four in-game paintings for your house as special rewards. If you want to kick it up a notch and shell out for the digital collector's edition, you'll get the snow hound, paintings, Tserrina's Wedding Present housing item, cosmetic ice armor, a prestige house and the ability to transform your griffon into a Stormfeather Brood Guardian. The collector's edition is temporarily priced at $59.99 for the next few weeks, and will go up to $89.99 on February 22nd.

There's also a retail version through Amazon and GameStop for those who prefer a physical copy of the game. The retail version contains the four paintings and an animated cloak as fun rewards. All versions of Destiny of Velious come with the core game and all of the expansions to date, and will include a full month of free gametime for new accounts. You can read all of the nitty-gritty details over at EverQuest II.

Update: Fixed the date of the CE price increase.

MassivelyEverQuest II's Destiny of Velious offers a trio of pre-orders originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazoncollectors-editiondestiny-of-veliousdigital-pre-orderdigital-versioneq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iigamestopmountpetpre-orderpre-orderssnow-houndsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 19 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Pre-order now!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/the-daily-grind-pre-order-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/the-daily-grind-pre-order-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/the-daily-grind-pre-order-now/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Pre-ordering has become something of an epidemic in the gaming industry. Whether you're looking to plunk down five bucks at Gamestop several weeks in advance of Red Dead Redemption or pay for the full enchilada on Amazon and wait for them to ship you a box on launch day, companies large and small have taken to offering their goods up for sale before they're really for sale. MMORPGs aren't left out of course. Currently the darling of the pre-order ball is Realtime Worlds' All Points Bulletin, simply by virtue of being the next big genre release.

Along with the early payments, players are generally rewarded with some sort of in-game trinket. Age of Conan's first expansion, launched this week, offered up a Loyal Kappa and Ravager of Jhi pet duo to those who pre-ordered Rise of the Godslayer. Both of these items, while aesthetically cool, are completely unnecessary (they function as fairly weak combat pets and buffers), mainly because Funcom is following the unwritten gaming rule that states thou shalt not provide early adopters any kind of real advantage. Along with the pets, early Godslayer customers were given a bewildering array of expansion upgrade packages to choose from, each featuring different items designed to temporarily boost XP, ease the transition for newbs, or just make their avatars look that much cooler.

Whether all of this is a good thing is up for debate. On the one hand, it's clear that players love any chance to acquire new shinies, even if it means paying a little extra. On the other hand, it can be argued that pre-ordering allows MMORPG makers to deliver unfinished games due to pre-existing demand and blind faith from fans.

What say you, dear readers? Yay or nay on MMORPG pre-orders?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Pre-order now! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 May 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanall-points-bulletinexclusive-itemsFuncompre-order-bonuspre-ordersrealtime-worldsred-dead-redemptionrise-of-the-godslayershiniesthe-daily-grindFri, 14 May 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe pre-orders coming soon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/lego-universe-pre-orders-coming-soon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/lego-universe-pre-orders-coming-soon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/lego-universe-pre-orders-coming-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With the closed beta humming along very well, the team at NetDevil have finally given us a pre-order date for the upcoming family-friendly MMO of awesome, LEGO Universe! For those who want to jump on and get your orders in, you'll be able to do so starting this Friday, May 14th. While there's currently no information on pricing available, we do know it will be on a monthly subscription model.

Of course, for LEGO maniacs, this is a no-brainer. Not only will everyone who pre-orders get to launch into this crazy fun MMO first, but they'll also be treated to a special limited-edition LEGO Universe astronaut to display proudly with their LEGO collections (or on their desks). There will also be an in-game code to unlock the accessories to match, so your character can flaunt their super-cool spaceman style.

Players who are interested will want to point their browsers at the official LEGO online store on Friday to snap up a copy of the game when they go on sale. We'll let you know if we hear anything more on pricing.

MassivelyLEGO Universe pre-orders coming soon originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 May 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonuslegolego-universemini-fignetdevilpre-orderpre-ordersspacemanTue, 11 May 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New post-apocalyptic MMO Xsyon to release April 15]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/new-post-apocalyptic-mmo-xsyon-to-release-april-15/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/new-post-apocalyptic-mmo-xsyon-to-release-april-15/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/new-post-apocalyptic-mmo-xsyon-to-release-april-15/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fallen Earth, Global Agenda, Earthrise. As players suffering from orc and elf burnout search for something different, the post-apocalyptic genre is quickly becoming popular.

One such title that's been flying well under the radar is Xsyon, an upcoming post-apocalyptic MMO from Notorious Games. The game is scheduled for an April 15 release, with plans to allow pre-order players to begin the game in mid-March. Xsyon's official site is very well done, offering backstory, screenshots, and extensive information about the game itself. The recently added forums rounded the site out nicely, opening the doors for discussion among players anxious for the game to arrive.

While the graphics aren't as perfected as bigger name games, the features are where this game really shines. Xsyon will be released in a series of installments, growing in every direction (landscapes, skills, crafts, etc.) as players learn and explore farther. So this means players will directly affect the world and the direction of the game by their actions and choices.

Xsyon is a game well worth looking into -- check out the official site for the full story.

MassivelyNew post-apocalyptic MMO Xsyon to release April 15 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>notorious-gamespost-apocalypticpre-ordersxsyonThu, 25 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion Collector's Edition pre-orders top Steam weekly sales]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/aion-collectors-edition-pre-orders-top-steam-weekly-sales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/aion-collectors-edition-pre-orders-top-steam-weekly-sales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/aion-collectors-edition-pre-orders-top-steam-weekly-sales/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


It's been a stellar week of digital pre-order sales for Aion, with the upcoming title taking top honors on Steam's weekly sales chart. Specifically, it was the Collector's Edition of the game that did so well. Keep in mind that this is not the same as the Limited Collector's Edition, which contains physical items like the Asmodian Daeva figurine that might be too difficult to distribute digitally with our current technology. It does however still contain a handful of in-game items that the regular edition doesn't. The pre-sale of both versions comes with guaranteed access to a couple of closed beta events, as well as an attribute boosting hat, an experience boosting talisman and a "special effects ring".

Interestingly, the pre-order for the regular edition didn't crack Steam's top 10. It seems that, just like with the Limited Collector Edition from brick-and-mortar stores, people are happy to pay just a little bit more for that extra something. Steam is selling the regular pre-order for US$49.99 and the collector's edition for US$59.99. The weekly sales chart is based on revenue, so Aion's asking price would have helped it beat popular budget-priced titles.

[Via Shacknews]

MassivelyAion Collector's Edition pre-orders top Steam weekly sales originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aioncollectors-editionpre-orderspre-salessalessales-chartssteamWed, 29 Jul 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mortal Online pre-orders to begin Monday, July 13]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/12/mortal-online-pre-orders-to-begin-monday-july-13/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/12/mortal-online-pre-orders-to-begin-monday-july-13/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/12/mortal-online-pre-orders-to-begin-monday-july-13/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mortal Online is the upcoming massively multiplayer online game being developed by Star Vault, one that will have a deep crafting system in addition to a heavy emphasis on PvP. We've mentioned the details of the limited run of Mortal Online collectors editions and the subsequent delay of Mortal Online pre-orders. The second time's a charm though, we're hoping. It seems that Star Vault is on track to begin pre-orders on Monday, July 13th (at 20:00 GMT +1), according to the announcement in the latest Mortal Online news update.

In addition to the pre-orders, Monday will also bring announcements from Star Vault about the game's first beta phase and Mortal Online's system requirements. You can check out the full details in Star Vault's announcement on the official game site.

MassivelyMortal Online pre-orders to begin Monday, July 13 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betasfantasymortal-onlinenew-titlespre-orderpre-ordersstar-vaultSun, 12 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mortal Online pre-orders delayed by two weeks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/mortal-online-pre-orders-delayed-by-two-weeks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/mortal-online-pre-orders-delayed-by-two-weeks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/mortal-online-pre-orders-delayed-by-two-weeks/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


We announced some details about the Mortal Online pre-order which was slated to kick off today in the game's online store. However the Mortal Online developers, Star Vault, announced there will be a two-week delay with the launch of the Mortal Online online store.

Star Vault CEO Henrik Nystrom announced: "On the 25th of June we brought you some good stuff, but today we have to bring you bad news. We have been working very hard to get the shop up and for it to accept different methods of payment, however it's not obvious we have been too optimistic this time as we have encountered several last-minute problems.

More information and a new schedule will be announced on the Mortal Online game store soon."

(Thanks for the tip, Rhys)

MassivelyMortal Online pre-orders delayed by two weeks originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementsbreakingbreakingnewsbusiness-modelsdelaydelaysfantasyhenrik-nystrommortal-onlinenew-titlesonline-storepre-orderpre-ordersstar-vaultswedenMon, 29 Jun 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Vault reveals Mortal Online beta and pre-order details, launch info]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/star-vault-reveals-mortal-online-beta-and-pre-order-details-lau/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/star-vault-reveals-mortal-online-beta-and-pre-order-details-lau/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/star-vault-reveals-mortal-online-beta-and-pre-order-details-lau/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Another competitor in the hardcore PvP niche in MMOs may give Darkfall Online a run for their money: Mortal Online from Sweden-based developer Star Vault. The game is presently in closed beta and is about to get its first test of the release build. The real news here is that Mortal Online has announced its open beta and release schedules.

Pre-orders for Mortal Online will begin on June 29th via the official site, and the actual launch (with monthly subscriptions) is slated for Q4 2009. Anyone who pre-orders the game "in any of the formats available" will have access to all of the beta phases remaining until the title launches. The catch, however, is that the pre-orders are limited to 10,000 people.

Continue reading Star Vault reveals Mortal Online beta and pre-order details, launch info

MassivelyStar Vault reveals Mortal Online beta and pre-order details, launch info originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betasboxed-versiondigital-downloadfantasylauncheslimited-editionmalmomortal-onlinepre-orderpre-orderspvpstar-vaultswedenSun, 07 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft to be sold exclusively for North America at Best Buy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


One of the titles gamers can look forward to this summer is CrimeCraft, a hybrid of a shooter and urban MMO from Vogster Entertainment, to be published by THQ Inc. in August. Vogster and THQ have taken a somewhat surprising step towards distribution of CrimeCraft in North America; the title will be sold exclusively at Best Buy, either in-store or online.

The exclusivity of this deal may bring some perks to CrimeCraft players. The official release states: "Consumers who purchase CrimeCraft at Best Buy will receive two months of free play time and a number of exclusive in-game items, including two in-game t-shirts from acclaimed real-world fashion labels and a combat backpack for their avatar. Gamers will also receive a virtual Best Buy discount card that allows them to purchase in-game items at a reduced cost. Those gamers pre-ordering CrimeCraft via Best Buy retail stores or online at www.bestbuy.com, will additionally receive virtual in-game shoes from Ecko Unltd., created by fashion icon Marc Ecko, access to play the pre-release version of the game during beta, and three days' head start at the game's launch."

Pre-orders begin on May 31st (online) or on June 7th (in stores). CrimeCraft is still slated for an August 25th launch.

Gallery: CrimeCraft

MassivelyCrimeCraft to be sold exclusively for North America at Best Buy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buybusiness-modelscrimecrimecraftlaunchesmarc-eckommo-industrymmofpsnorth-americapre-ordersretailshooterthird-person-shooterthqvogster-entertainmentFri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall prepares for launch, renewed sales of games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/darkfall-prepares-for-launch-renewed-sales-of-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/darkfall-prepares-for-launch-renewed-sales-of-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/darkfall-prepares-for-launch-renewed-sales-of-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Today's the big day, Darkfall fans! The 25th of February has arrived and Darkfall should be fully online sometime this afternoon/evening as Aventurine flips the switch on their servers!

This launch hasn't passed without problems though. First came the online pre-order page becoming swamped with traffic, leading to multiple credit card charges, people who never received their activation codes, and people who got codes but weren't even charged for the game. If you have had a problem with your pre-order, and wish to check the status of your account, you can always do so on the account management page. Be warned -- account management is under extreme stress from all the traffic and has been mostly down.

Today, the heavily burdened website's forums have been up and down, with timeouts occurring as players pile in to see what the news is on the servers. Currently, as of the writing of this post, the servers are still down and unresponsive.

Sales of Darkfall will also resume today, as Aventurine plans to start selling the game early in the evening, around the time the servers go live. No exact time has been given yet, but we'll keep our eye on the forums for any specifics given by the development team.

MassivelyDarkfall prepares for launch, renewed sales of games originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-managementaventurinebreakingdarkfalldarkfall-onlineforumslaunchmultiple-chargespre-orderssalesserverstimeoutWed, 25 Feb 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR marches into retail with 1.5 million]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/16/war-marches-into-retail-with-1-5-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/16/war-marches-into-retail-with-1-5-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/16/war-marches-into-retail-with-1-5-million/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mythic Entertainment has announced that 1.5 million units of Warhammer Online have been shipped to retail worldwide. The game is also EA's most pre-ordered PC title to date. It's been said these kinds of numbers would be required for the game to be considered a success. Of course, shipping 1.5 million copies to retailers and selling them are two different things. Which isn't to say we don't think the game will sell well, especially if the head start is any indication. It's just that hard numbers are still a few weeks away.

With Wrath of the Lich King coming out just around the corner, we're pretty certain that there's going be a numbers battle in the minds of MMO gamers throughout the next several months. We have to admit, it's going to be a little interesting to watch the sales of both WAR, Wrath and Mines of Moria. Our hope is that they all do well, because all of them are great titles.

MassivelyWAR marches into retail with 1.5 million originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Sep 2008 06:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingeaelectronic-artslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamythicmythic-entertainmentpre-orderpre-orderswarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowwrath-of-the-lich-kingTue, 16 Sep 2008 06:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online access details for pre-orders and Collector's Edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/warhammer-online-access-details-for-pre-orders-and-collectors-e/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/warhammer-online-access-details-for-pre-orders-and-collectors-e/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/warhammer-online-access-details-for-pre-orders-and-collectors-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Warhammer Online fans, the promised day is almost here. Mythic has announced early access details for pre-order and Collector's Edition customers. Pre-orders get a headstart and will be invited to play as of September 15th; those who sprung for the Collector's Edition get to trump everyone else, gaining access to WAR on September 14th in addition to some of those other sweet extras that come with the CE.

Still, not all Collector's Edition customers are happy about how CE customers are being treated. One Collector's Edition buyer named 'Micah' had a nightmare of a problem with his order from Electronic Arts (EA). A simple request to not have his CE shipped to an address he no longer lives at was met with a bizarre choice to be made -- either cancel the order and lose out on the sold-out CE, or let the order stand and have it shipped to the complete strangers living at Micah's former residence. Check out the entire correspondence between EA and Micah at The Consumerist. We hope this is an isolated incident, particularly given the cost and apparent rarity of the Collector's Edition.
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Continue reading Warhammer Online access details for pre-orders and Collector's Edition

MassivelyWarhammer Online access details for pre-orders and Collector's Edition originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingceclientcollectors-editiondownloadea-mythicearly-accessfantasymicahmythicmythic-entertainmentopen-betapre-orderpre-ordersthe-consumeristwarwarhammer-onlineMon, 01 Sep 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic publishes Warhammer Online pre-order FAQ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/02/mythic-publishes-warhammer-online-pre-order-faq/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/02/mythic-publishes-warhammer-online-pre-order-faq/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/02/mythic-publishes-warhammer-online-pre-order-faq/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mythic has created the beginnings of a FAQ intended to help would-be-customers sort out all the details about pre-ordering Warhammer Online. Info included in the FAQ: how to pre-order in Canada, who to poke to get pre-order codes when you place your order through an online store, and details and definitions on the beta testing phases, among other things.

Mythic promises that the FAQ will be updated with new information in the future, but doesn't say what kind of information it'll be.

The FAQ has some helpful information if you have those specific questions, of course. If you want a more in-depth and badass guide to pre-ordering WAR, though, check out our WAR collector's edition pre-order guide. Which retailer distributes codes in the most helpful way? Which one gives you the best extra goodies? It's all there!

MassivelyMythic publishes Warhammer Online pre-order FAQ originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacanadacodecodescollectors-editioneaea-mythicfaqfrequently-asked-questionsguidekeykeysmythicmythic-entertainmentpre-orderpre-orderspreorderpreorderswarwarhammer-onlineSat, 02 Aug 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square-Enix offers in-game harpsichord for CD pre-order]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/square-enix-offers-in-game-harpsichord-for-cd-pre-order/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/square-enix-offers-in-game-harpsichord-for-cd-pre-order/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/square-enix-offers-in-game-harpsichord-for-cd-pre-order/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The CD compilations of Final Fantasy game music are popular items among players, so any new release is cause for celebration. This newest CD, however, entitled Piano Collections Final Fantasy XI has special significance -- first edition pressings come with a code included that unlocks a beautiful harpsichord for use in the Mog House.

The pre-order ends on June 12th, so fans of the soundtracks will want to visit the site and get moving on this today. Looking at the track listing available made us want to make a joke about passing the Duchy 'pon the left-'and side, but fortunately, we're too mature for that.

[Thanks, Fusionx!]

MassivelySquare-Enix offers in-game harpsichord for CD pre-order originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 May 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffxifinal-fantasy-xiharpsichordmog-housepiano-collectionspre-orderssoundtracksquare-enixThu, 29 May 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[AoC account registration begins for pre-order customers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/aoc-account-registration-begins-for-pre-order-customers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/aoc-account-registration-begins-for-pre-order-customers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/aoc-account-registration-begins-for-pre-order-customers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Funcom has opened up Age of Conan account registration for customers who pre-ordered the game. This includes the Early Access service. For a $5 or €5 fee, all those who pre-ordered the game may gain access to the servers on May 17th, three days ahead of the North American launch and six days ahead of the European launch.

Previously, Europeans who paid for Early Access could jump into the game on the 20th, but Funcom has announced that those folks may now begin play at the same time as Americans, so the 17th is the day for everyone now! Hopefully some of the performance issues will be resolved by then. It looks like they might be.

[Via Ten Ton Hammer]

MassivelyAoC account registration begins for pre-order customers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 May 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accountage-of-conanamericaaocearly-accesseuropefuncomlaunchmaymay-17may-20may-23pre-orderpre-ordersregistrationretailTue, 06 May 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[X-Play lists Age of Conan at the top of PC game sales [updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/x-play-lists-age-of-conan-at-the-top-of-pc-game-sales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/x-play-lists-age-of-conan-at-the-top-of-pc-game-sales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/x-play-lists-age-of-conan-at-the-top-of-pc-game-sales/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Game|Life has reported on an interesting little tidbit included in a recent episode of X-Play -- apparently, Age of Conan has topped PC game sales charts for the month of March. As any anxious fan will tell you, the game is not due for release until the 20th of May, so provided that X-Play's assertion is correct, this sales dominance must have come from pre-orders. Also, we're assuming that topping the charts for March means, "for March thus far".

If true, this bodes extremely well for the launch of AoC. We already know that a lot of people are excited for the game, but to beat everything else on the sales chart a good two months out from release is fairly incredible. Game|Life has contacted G4 to see if they can find out more, and are expecting to hear from them on Monday with some clarification on the source of their numbers.

Update: G4 has said that their sales data came from Gamestop.

MassivelyX-Play lists Age of Conan at the top of PC game sales [updated] originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aocfuncommarchpre-orderpre-orderssales-chartssales-datax-playSat, 22 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PotBS NDA lifted, open beta details]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/potbs-nda-lifted-open-beta-details/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/potbs-nda-lifted-open-beta-details/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/potbs-nda-lifted-open-beta-details/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Have you read our in-depth mission preview and crafting hands-on for Pirates of the Burning Sea, and discovered a burning inner desire to try your hand (or hook) at life on the open sea? Well today may just be your lucky day. Beginning December 7th, closed beta testers and members of FilePlanet's Founders Club will gain access to the PotBS open beta, and the general public will follow four days afterwards on December 11th, a day on which we anticipate many businesses shutting down to a sudden and unforeseen outbreak of scurvy. In the meantime, the non-disclosure agreement signed by closed beta testers has been lifted, so those among us who were fortunate enough to have been playing the game in quiet anonymity will finally be able to share our experiences on forums and the like. So chat it up!

Not wanting to leave Australian and European fans behind, the Flying Lab Software folks also reaffirmed their commitment to finding publishing partners in those territories. There's no news (and subsequently no pre-orders) in this respect as of today, but they wanted gamers abroad to know that they have not been forgotten.

MassivelyPotBS NDA lifted, open beta details originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closed-betaflying-labndaopen-betapirates-of-the-burning-seapotbspre-ordersMon, 03 Dec 2007 15:45:00 EST