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[Everything you need to know about The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - zombies incoming
So what's all this hullabaloo about The Secret World? Let's start with the basics.

The Secret World is a new MMORPG by Funcom, the studio that brought you Age of Conan, and way back when, Anarchy Online. It's also the brainchild of one Ragnar Tornquist, familiar to adventure gamers the world over thanks to Dreamfall and The Longest Journey. Like those seminal titles, The Secret World seeks to conjure an immersive, fantastical realm of myth, magic, and in some cases, horror. Unlike the adventures of April Ryan, though, The Secret World is your story, and it takes place in the video game equivalent of the real world (not to mention Hell, portions of a hollow Earth, and many other mythological settings).

There's an undeniable Lovecraftian influence, there are zombies and assault rifles, and there's a three-faction setup that asks players to join forces with noted secret societies like the Templars and the Illuminati (as well as the less-familiar Dragons). Did we mention battleground PvP, a Minecraft-inspired crafting system, and skill-based progression mechanics that depart from traditional MMORPG classes and levels in favor of player-made builds (drawn from a pool of nearly 600 distinct abilities)?

As you can see, Funcom is throwing everything at the wall, and luckily for you, Massively has been keeping tabs on the game's development for a number of years now. We've also managed to spend quite a bit of time in the beta of late. Click past the cut for a roundup of our best coverage, including guides, impressions, interviews, and basically everything you want to know about The Secret World.

Continue reading Everything you need to know about The Secret World

MassivelyEverything you need to know about The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologypreviewpreviewsroundupsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-rounduptswtsw-roundupFri, 25 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Raising hell in The Secret World's Hell Raised instance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/raising-hell-in-the-secret-worlds-hell-raised-instance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/raising-hell-in-the-secret-worlds-hell-raised-instance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/raising-hell-in-the-secret-worlds-hell-raised-instance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Seems legit.
Welcome to The Secret World's Overlook Motel, where the sheets are clean, the service is friendly, and there's an ominous doorway to Hell in every room. Such is the beginning of the second instanced dungeon of Funcom's upcoming horror-fantasy MMO, which sees players descending deep into the bowels of the underworld to put an end to a raging demonic war that's causing Hell to leak through to the real world.

I had the pleasure of joining Funcom's Tor Andersen on a guided tour of Hell Raised, the first in a series of three dungeons that take place in the fiery depths, and boy did I ever have a hell of a time (sorry). If you're interested in finding out what awaits players of The Secret World in the depths of Hades itself, follow along with me as I give you the ins-and-outs of surviving a confrontation in the midst of an infernal warzone.

Continue reading Raising hell in The Secret World's Hell Raised instance

MassivelyRaising hell in The Secret World's Hell Raised instance originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeondungeonsfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhands-onhell-raisedhorrorinstanceinstancesmythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswThu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Conquest PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-conquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-conquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-conquest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

rift conquest
RIFT fans wracked their brains trying to decipher the cryptic message on the forums a few weeks ago, and it turned out they were right: RIFT is on the verge of seeing the arrival of three faction PvP, and the game took its first step toward that with a test session on PTS last week.

If you missed it, take heart because this week's Enter at Your Own Rift gives a recap of the event and a beginning look at how Conquest plays out. Read on for handy primer on three-faction PvP in Telara!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Conquest PvP

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Conquest PvP originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestdominionenter-at-your-own-riftextractorsfaction-pvpfantasyfeaturedhands-onkaren-bryannightfalloathswornopinionpreviewpreviewspvpriftrift-planes-of-telararvrtelarathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 23 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: An exclusive look at the Runespan in RuneScape]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/mmobility-an-exclusive-look-at-the-runespan-in-runescape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/mmobility-an-exclusive-look-at-the-runespan-in-runescape/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/mmobility-an-exclusive-look-at-the-runespan-in-runescape/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape screenshot
Jagex, developer of the ever-popular browser-based game RuneScape, is known for its rapid development schedule. Heck, I fully expect that this article will be outdated by the time I finish its rough draft. Players of the Jagex flagship MMO can log in to find new items, places to explore, and quests to do almost weekly. I tend to poke my nose into the game several times a week, so I know that a more casual player has endless amounts of content to run through. I might level up my construction skill and then switch to something completely different. I just recently spent an afternoon playing with just the new bonfire skill.

Of course, those pesky developers are at it again: giving me more content to go through even though my highest skills hover around only the level 40 mark. This time it's the Runespan, a brand-new area that helps players level runecrafting by offering them a one-stop shop that is more casual and non-competitive than the normal runecraft experience.

I got the chance to call up some of the lead developers on the phone and ask not only about the Runespan but about the new FPS improvements, so be sure to check that out!

Continue reading MMObility: An exclusive look at the Runespan in RuneScape

MassivelyMMObility: An exclusive look at the Runespan in RuneScape originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsjagexjagex-games-studiommobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonepreviewpreviewsrsrunescapesandboxsmartphonethe-runespanFri, 18 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New flythrough video previews Project Copernicus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/new-flythrough-video-previews-project-copernicus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/new-flythrough-video-previews-project-copernicus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/new-flythrough-video-previews-project-copernicus/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A pair of scales might be more apropos. Or dice.
In the wake of the Rhode Island governor's release announcement, all eyes are on 38 Studios and Project Copernicus. Up until now the title has been talked about only in hushed tones, but today we've gotten a little something more: a flythrough of some areas of the game, showing off what we can expect from the environments. And suddenly that announced release date seems just a touch more plausible because the environments certainly look gorgeous.

Players of Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning will no doubt recognize some of the environmental looks if not the exact locations, but everyone can appreciate the design that's gone into each region. Of course, it's a long road between showing a pretty place and making a playable game, and 38 Studios is still struggling to keep its head above water. But the MMO the studio has promised seems a bit more plausible now, and hopefully there's a light at the end of this particular tunnel.

[Thanks to all the tipsters who sent this in!]

Continue reading New flythrough video previews Project Copernicus

MassivelyNew flythrough video previews Project Copernicus originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbreakingcopernicusearly-previewflythroughpreviewsproject-copernicustrailertrailersvideovideoszone-previewFri, 18 May 2012 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit Tales launching Crisis of Jade Forest next week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Diabeetus.
It's really hard to imagine anything in the saccharine world of Spirit Tales being properly termed a crisis, but the game's newest update is aiming in that direction. The Crisis of Jade Forest goes live on May 23rd, giving players a chance to tackle an extra-difficult version of the normal Jade Forest area with extra boss-enriched goodness. Successful players have plenty of motivation, however, as the reward for completion involves a chest that could contain items normally reserved for the game's item mall.

Groups of up to five players can enter the battle once per day, which fills the area with deadly monsters and 10 special bosses. Successfully defeating all of these bosses will grant the chance to earn both rewards that would normally cost real money as well as other little trinkets. it's also meant to be a great way to level up, so if you're already in the open beta, you may want to consider a look at the dungeon.

MassivelySpirit Tales launching Crisis of Jade Forest next week originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animedungeondungeon-contentf2pfree-to-playkoramgamekoramgame-ltdmicrotransactionsnew-contentpatchespreviewsspecial-contentspirit-talesupdatesThu, 17 May 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's mission system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-mission-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-mission-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-mission-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Kingsmouth quest NPC
So The Secret World's mission system treads well off the beaten MMO path. It's pretty cool, actually, though portions of it may irritate quest-grinders who just want to blow through zones on their way to the game's equivalent of a max-level toon.

For the rest of us, there's a nifty interface, some challenging puzzles, and plenty of well-written quest text and dialogue to keep us entertained for weeks at a time.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's mission system

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's mission system originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-gamesfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhorrorkingsmouthmythologypreviewpreviewsragnar-tornquistsci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-impressionssecret-world-mission-guidesecret-world-missionsskill-basedsupply-runthe-kingsmouth-codethe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-mission-guidethe-secret-world-press-betatswtsw-guidestsw-quest-guidetsw-questingThu, 17 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic shows off the new Champion and Warlock]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/runes-of-magic-shows-off-the-new-champion-and-warlock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/runes-of-magic-shows-off-the-new-champion-and-warlock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/runes-of-magic-shows-off-the-new-champion-and-warlock/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Now, if he transformed into a plane, that would be something.
New classes are always exciting. In a game with an established set of abilities and character options, the chance to take a different option helps keep the game engaging and surprising. That's no doubt part of the rationale behind Runes of Magic's two new classes, the Champion and the Warlock. But they're also meant to show off the ingenuity and cleverness of the Dwarves, and in a new preview of these two classes, it becomes clear just how much both will bring to the table.

The Warlock is an arcane caster who has delved into the knowledge of the Shadowforge Dwarves, allowing him to act as either a damage dealer or a support character as the situation warrants. Champions are masters of pseudo-mystical forge techniques, with the Champion ultimately being capable of transforming into a special Runic Robot form for increased damage and durability. There are only a few more weeks until the game's next major update, and then players will get to try out the new hybrid classes for themselves.

MassivelyRunes of Magic shows off the new Champion and Warlock originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championclassescoming-patchesf2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivehybridhybrid-classesmajor-patchesnew-classespatchespreviewpreviewsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttaboreawarlockWed, 16 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's combat system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-combat-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-combat-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-combat-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Dead zombies
The Secret World's press beta hasn't been what I expected. To be frank, I'd say there are times I wish I didn't have to play it. See, my guild pals are on either the closed beta server or the public beta weekends server, both of which are quite crowded and therefore offer quite a different experience from the forlorn existence endured by my Massively Templar.

There's also the whole I-don't-get-to-keep-this-character thing, not to mention the wow-this-is-cool-and-I-don't-want-to-spoil-it-for-myself-post-launch thing.

On the other hand, I've had plenty of time to muck around with game systems and minutiae, something that my card-carrying membership in the crazy carebear immersionist secret society often precludes. For this week's press beta article, then, I thought I'd give you guys a primer on The Secret World's combat system.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's combat system

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's combat system originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-combatsecret-world-guidesskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-combatthe-secret-world-guidesthe-secret-world-press-betatswtsw-combattsw-guidesWed, 16 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storybricks demo and interview with Brian 'Psychochild' Green and Kelly Heckman]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/storybricks-demo-and-interview-with-brian-psychochild-green-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/storybricks-demo-and-interview-with-brian-psychochild-green-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/storybricks-demo-and-interview-with-brian-psychochild-green-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Storybricks
Namaste Entertainment's upcoming MMO-narrative-building toolset, Storybricks, is quickly picking up steam among the massively multiplayer gaming community. The quirky title recently released a public alpha client to coincide with the project's Kickstarter campaign, and I had the opportunity to sit down with Namaste's Brian "Psychochild" Green and Kelly Heckman for a tour of the client as well as a short interview on what the future holds for the toolbox-cum-MMOG project.

Follow on past the cut and join me as I try to pinpoint Namaste's goals for the future of Storybricks.

Continue reading Storybricks demo and interview with Brian 'Psychochild' Green and Kelly Heckman

MassivelyStorybricks demo and interview with Brian 'Psychochild' Green and Kelly Heckman originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbrian-greenbrian-psychochild-greeninterviewinterviewskelly-heckmannamastenamaste-entertainmentnamaste-incpreviewpreviewspsychochildstorybricksMon, 14 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World character creator]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Image
The real secret to The Secret World is that it's the Matrix (see the above picture from the character creator that resembles Carrie-Anne Moss).

Actually, the first and most important stop for an MMO gamer is the character creator. When you're in beta, it might not be as important because the character will be tossed away in a few short weeks. However, in the live game, this character will not only be the same one you might see for years to come; it's also a reflection of you as a player. There are some players who insist on playing the ugliest races in the game, while others want the prettiest or the strongest. Personally, I lean toward playing female characters. I'm not sure what that says about me.

The creation of our character says so much about us, so it is extremely important that western RPGs and especially MMORPGs allow us to express ourselves. The Secret World's character creator has its good elements and its bad, but the most important part is how much Funcom's version allows us to express our personalities.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World character creator

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World character creator originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaoccharacter-creatoreaElectronic-ArtsfantasyfeaturedFirst-Impressionsfuncomhands-onhorrormythologyopinionpreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldthe-secret-worldtrailertrailerstswvideovideo-previewvideosFri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's Illuminati experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-illuminati-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-illuminati-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-illuminati-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Illuminati
Dark days are upon us, and I, for one, couldn't be more pleased. For the past few days I've had the pleasure of exploring the dark corners of the press beta for Funcom's upcoming horror-fantasy MMO, The Secret World, and now the embargo is up and I'm finally able to share my impressions with all of you.

You may recall that I got some hands-on time with the title at PAX East earlier this year and came away from the experience fairly pleased. But that was an hour of playtime at the most, so how does the game hold up with extended play? I decided to hop into the (rather stylish) boots of an Illuminati initiate to find out for myself.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's Illuminati experience

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's Illuminati experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factionfantasyfuncomhands-onhorrorilluminatiimpressionskingsmouthmythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-press-betatswFri, 11 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Matt Higby discusses PlanetSide 2's progression and customization]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/matt-higby-discusses-planetside-2s-progression-and-customizatio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/matt-higby-discusses-planetside-2s-progression-and-customizatio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/matt-higby-discusses-planetside-2s-progression-and-customizatio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

I'm not actually in the war, I just like riding this ATV.
PlanetSide 2 has but one real game it must live up to, but if you consider the unique elements that its predecessor brought to the table, that's still a tall order. A recent interview with the game's creative director, Matt Higby, highlights the ways that the game is being designed to fulfill the requirements of an engaging MMO and an engaging FPS. That means giving characters plenty of progression without locking out new players who just want to shoot things.

The game's overall progression path is meant to be one of options, not straight power. That's the case for classes as well as advancement; Heavy Assault characters will play distinctly from other classes, but they'll have a variety of unique abilities that players can choose among. The interview also sheds more light on what players can expect from the game's overarching persistent elements, which set the game and its factions apart from standard FPS fare. The game still has a long way to go in development, but what's been shown thus far is definitely an encouraging start.

MassivelyMatt Higby discusses PlanetSide 2's progression and customization originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developmentfpsinterviewsmatt-higbymmo-shootermmofpsnew-titlesplanetsideplanetside-2previewsps2sci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentupcoming-titlesWed, 02 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III cooks up a reveal for the Witch Doctor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/diablo-iii-cooks-up-a-reveal-for-the-witch-doctor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/diablo-iii-cooks-up-a-reveal-for-the-witch-doctor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/diablo-iii-cooks-up-a-reveal-for-the-witch-doctor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Shirts optional, masks mandatory.
As the release grows closer, Diablo III continues to serve up new reveals for the game's classes. But the latest revelation is still bringing a lot of secrets along with it. After all, would you really expect the Witch Doctor not to have a few more tricks up his sleeve? Like previous classes, the good doctor gets a video showing off the class style as well as a short story and a more specific class overview.

While he's fully capable of dealing straight damage, the Witch Doctor's true talents lie in subtlety and misdirection via curses, confusion, and fear. He also possesses the ability to summon creatures to act as ersatz allies, with giant toads and swarms of flaming bats compensating for his own lack of physical might. If all of this sounds like just your style, you might want to take a look at the video... but even if that's not the case, all Diablo III fans will want to take note of the first announced launch event for the game, with more to follow.

Continue reading Diablo III cooks up a reveal for the Witch Doctor

MassivelyDiablo III cooks up a reveal for the Witch Doctor originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopclassclass-previewclass-revealclassesd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasymultiplayernewsonline-multiplayerpreviewsroguelikerpgtrailertrailersvideovideoswitch-doctorWed, 25 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Blade posts a teaser site and class Facebook pages]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/eternal-blade-posts-a-teaser-site-and-class-facebook-pages/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/eternal-blade-posts-a-teaser-site-and-class-facebook-pages/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/eternal-blade-posts-a-teaser-site-and-class-facebook-pages/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Because there just are not enough games that allow you to play as a lightly armored dagger-wielding character.
Eternal Blade, if you hadn't heard, is a free-to-play action MMO due out later this year from gPotato. We had a chance to preview the game briefly at GDC, and the team behind the game has stepped up promotions with the addition of a new teaser site for the game. The developers have also finalized the class lineup, but the classes aren't getting pages on the teaser site; instead, each class now has its own individual Facebook page.

The Soul Summoner, the Knight, the Archer, the Mage, the Thief, and the Berserker pages each have some photos of the relevant class in action as well as a description of why it's the best out of the six classes. If that doesn't get you interested in the game, the teaser site also features a video showing off cinematics and gameplay. More news on beta testing and launch as it develops.

[Source: gPotato press release]

Continue reading Eternal Blade posts a teaser site and class Facebook pages

MassivelyEternal Blade posts a teaser site and class Facebook pages originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmobetabeta-testingclass-previewseternal-bladef2pfacebookfree-to-playgala-labsgala-netgpotatopreviewsupcoming-gamesvideovideosFri, 20 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar Wednesday showcases a rogue's gallery full of rogues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/wildstar-wednesday-showcases-a-rogues-gallery-full-of-rogues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/wildstar-wednesday-showcases-a-rogues-gallery-full-of-rogues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/wildstar-wednesday-showcases-a-rogues-gallery-full-of-rogues/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Shiny. Let's be bad guys.
WildStar is shaping up to be a lot of things, but "peaceful" isn't one of them. Players watching the various previews already have an idea of what the more natural threats in the game world will look like. This week's installment of WildStar Wednesday focuses on a much more human element, however: three different criminal organizations that all have a decided interest in the region of Algoroc. As if the wildlife wasn't bad enough, you have to contend with all manner of criminals as well.

Marauders are intergalactic pirates, the Darkspur Cartel is essentially an interstellar mafia, and the Crowe Gang is a group of smugglers and moonshine brewers. But all of them have an interest in Algoroc, and none of them are open to outsiders or anything law-abiding in the area. That means players are going to have to face off against all three, and from the looks of the preview, none of these groups will go down easily.

MassivelyWildStar Wednesday showcases a rogue's gallery full of rogues originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosenemiesenemyncsoftopponentspreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fiwildstarwildstar-wednesdaywsWed, 18 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diablo III punches things up with a new Monk video and the end of beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/diablo-iii-punches-things-up-with-a-new-monk-video-and-the-end-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/diablo-iii-punches-things-up-with-a-new-monk-video-and-the-end-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/diablo-iii-punches-things-up-with-a-new-monk-video-and-the-end-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

No wolves howling at the moon? What madness.
Diablo III is still putting together more previews as the game ramps up for its launch on May 15th. The latest reveal is for the Monk, a melee class that takes a very different approach from the already revealed Barbarian. Rather than attacking with massive weapons and overpowering rage, the Monk uses careful combo attacks, swift movements, and inner energy. Unleashing a Monk's spiritual power after a long chain of melee attacks can produce all sorts of effects, from area damage to dashing out of combat quickly.

This reveal coincides with the announcement that the Diablo III beta will be coming to a close on Tuesday, May 1st. Character information will be wiped at that time, and players will be able to post on the official forums only in the event that they have pre-purchased the game or they have an active account for another Blizzard game. If the Monk reveal makes you anxious to play one and you're in the beta, you'd better get on that quickly or be prepared to wait for launch.

MassivelyDiablo III punches things up with a new Monk video and the end of beta originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbetabeta-testingbetasblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopclassclass-revealsclassesd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiiend-of-betafantasygothic-fantasymonkmultiplayeronline-multiplayerpreviewsroguelikerpgTue, 17 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT community team livestreaming Infernal Dawn tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's not really a raid unless there's a ten-minute diversion when the tanks both go out for a smoke.
If you're playing RIFT, odds are good you're looking forward to the next major content update -- and if you're also a raider, so much the better. But it's one thing to read about all of the neat things that will be going on in a new raid and another thing entirely to actually see them. That's why the community team is hosting an official livestream of the new Infernal Dawn raid that's getting released this week.

The run will begin at 11:30 a.m. PDT, moving through the entirety of the raid and showing off all of the bosses without spoiling the fights themselves. The community team will also be explaining the lore behind the area and the bosses and answering community questions when possible. So if you've got the time around noon tomorrow to check it out, head over to the game's Facebook page and get ready for a guided tour of the newest raid.

[Source: Trion Worlds press release]

MassivelyRIFT community team livestreaming Infernal Dawn tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lumpy
This coming Tuesday, EverQuest II will launch Game Update 63, and with it comes a bevy of dragons, new content, a level cap increase, and much more. Recently, EQII Producer Holly "Windstalker" Longdale and Game Designer Carlos "Gninja" Mora took the time to talk about the update and lead a tour of the new zones. Read on for a closer look at the Withered Lands and Skyshrine!

Gallery: EverQuest II Game Update 63

Continue reading A land corrupted and a city under seige: A look at GU63 with the EQII team

MassivelyA land corrupted and a city under seige: A look at GU63 with the EQII team originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jump around.
There are some classes in every game meant to explore arcane mysteries, to sneak through trials with subtlety and focus upon finesse and careful action. The Barbarian of Diablo III is not one of those classes. No, the Barbarian is the class for when you want to just smash everything until it stands no taller than dust, and then smash yourself some dust for good measure. It's the latest reveal for the game, and as expected, it comes with an accompanying video.

In lore terms, as a Barbarian you play one of the last members of a proud nomadic people whose tireless defense of Mount Arreat ultimately failed, leaving the Barbarians to wander disillusioned and hopeless. Meanwhile, in game terms, you'll focus on savage melee attacks, thundering war shouts, and a variety of extremely powerful weapons and armor. So go ahead and pound on your mouse until you get past the break to view the Barbarian in all his bloody, savage, not-quite-housebroken glory.

Continue reading Blizzard highlights the Barbarian in Diablo III's newest video

MassivelyBlizzard highlights the Barbarian in Diablo III's newest video originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbarbarianbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopclassclassesd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasymultiplayeronline-multiplayerpreviewsroguelikerpgtrailertrailersvideovideosWed, 11 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

rift fishing
One of the parts of the recent RIFT producer's letter that caught my eye was the hint that there will soon be more to do in game besides "stab" stuff. Maybe I'm mellowing in my old age, or perhaps it's because of my inner Bartle explorer player-type, but I'm enjoying activities in MMOs that don't involve mass slaughter all the time. Usually, that means crafting, but the inventory management that's required often leaves me cross-eyed by the time I'm done.

With Update 1.8, RIFT will add two new skills to the game: fishing and survival. Non-combat activities have already been introduced in past updates, like the wedding instance, but these two new skills look to be fun games within the game, so I was eager to check things out. Join me as I don some hip-waders, pack up some flint, and head to PTS for a peek at fishing, survival, and a quick peek at the looking-for-guild tool.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin'

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin' originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingenter-at-your-own-riftfantasyfeaturedfishingkaren-bryanlfglooking-for-guildopinionpatchpatchespreviewpreviewsriftrift-fishingrift-looking-for-guild-windowrift-planes-of-telararift-survivalsurvivaltelaratriontrion-worldsWed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Exploring the dark corners of The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/pax-east-2012-exploring-the-dark-corners-of-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/pax-east-2012-exploring-the-dark-corners-of-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/pax-east-2012-exploring-the-dark-corners-of-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
As anyone around the Massively offices can tell you, I am eagerly-bordering-on-obsessively awaiting the release of Funcom's latest entry into the MMO market, The Secret World. I'm all about the supernatural, occult, and paranormal, and The Secret World's "all the myths are true" philosophy is right up my alley, so when I heard that there would be a playable demo at PAX East 2012, it was all I could do not to squeal like a 12-year-old girl (and I may have done so anyway).

Of course, many people are hesitant about the title. Between The Secret World's subscription-cum-microtransactions business model and Funcom's track record of poor launches and bug-laden games, some gamers are finding themselves hesitant to get hyped up for the game's June 19th launch. Of course, I'd be lying if I said I weren't at least a bit cautious myself, regardless of my enthusiasm for the game. So how is the game shaping up? Well, sit down, grab yourself a drink, and let me tell you what I think.

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Exploring the dark corners of The Secret World

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Exploring the dark corners of The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventionexpofactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhands-onhorrorkingsmouthmythologypaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedtemplartemplarsthe-secret-worldtswWed, 11 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Hands-on with Perfect World's Raiderz]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pax-east-2012-hands-on-with-perfect-worlds-raiderz/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pax-east-2012-hands-on-with-perfect-worlds-raiderz/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pax-east-2012-hands-on-with-perfect-worlds-raiderz/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Raiderz - giant frogger boss
TERA isn't the only upcoming MMO to feature big-ass monsters and action combat. Perfect World Entertainment showed us a demo of Raiderz at last weekend's PAX East, and producer Mark Hill was pretty enthusiastic about the game's level of polish. He also made a point of highlighting the amount of free gameplay the company will be making available to fans later this year.

"We really want to blow people away with how much free content they're getting out of a really top-notch game," he said. Join us after the cut to see what Raiderz has to offer.

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Hands-on with Perfect World's Raiderz

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Hands-on with Perfect World's Raiderz originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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TERA - Aman Berserker character screen
This all feels very familiar.

The gorgeous Asian aesthetics, the sexed-up avatars, and the hordes of high school tykes runting and squealing in global chat take me back to September of 2009 and the opening gyrations of the themepark orgy that was Aion.

Only this time, there are no angel wings, there's but one faction, and the game's called TERA.

Continue reading Weekend warrior: Two days with TERA's beta berserker

MassivelyWeekend warrior: Two days with TERA's beta berserker originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amanaman-berserkerarboreaberserkerbetablueholebluehole-studiosclassclassesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfeaturedfirst-impressionshands-onimpressionspreviewpreviewsteratera-combattera-first-impressionstera-impressionstera-previewMon, 09 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ready, aim, Firefall: Impressions of the closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/ready-aim-firefall-impressions-of-the-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/ready-aim-firefall-impressions-of-the-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/ready-aim-firefall-impressions-of-the-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Firefall
Last year at PAX Prime, I had the opportunity to get my hands on an early version of Red 5 Studios' upcoming MMOFPS, Firefall. The game's come a long way since then, having gone into closed beta shortly after PAX Prime.

As of Friday, the game's NDA has finally dropped, and I can finally tell you fine folks all about my experiences with the game's beta. For those of you somehow not in the know, Firefall is essentially two games in one. On the one hand, you have the title's open-world PvE content that sees players exploring the lands of New Eden in an attempt to find a way to fight back the destructive alien force known as the Melding. On the other, there's the competitive e-sports-esque PvP, which lets players test their skills against each another to see who's the best shot in New Eden. So how much has Firefall changed between PAX Prime '11 and PAX East '12?

Continue reading Ready, aim, Firefall: Impressions of the closed beta

MassivelyReady, aim, Firefall: Impressions of the closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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He wants to believe like I want to love this game. Can I get this shirt?
Funcom's The Secret World has had a big weekend at PAX East with its first public chance for hands-on interaction! It's a game that's been stirring up quite a bit of interest; the classless, level-less progression system, secret societies, and sword-and-automatic-rifle genre-bending are just a few of its selling points. My ears tend to perk up when the game gets mentioned, so of course I was all but falling over myself to hop into the playable demo this weekend. Walking away from that experience, though, I'm unconvinced.

Continue reading PAX East 2012: The Secret World demo

MassivelyPAX East 2012: The Secret World demo originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-tera-hands-on/
In the service of Massively's ongoing PAX East 2012 coverage, I spent some time today in and around the TERA booth, ogling the pretty trailers and getting a seat in a group press demo to tackle some fun high-end content in the form of a five-player encounter with an Argon boss. Read on for an overview of what I saw!

Gallery: TERA PAX 2012

Continue reading PAX East 2012: TERA hands-on

MassivelyPAX East 2012: TERA hands-on originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosconconventionen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexpofantasyfeaturedgalleriesgalleryhands-onopinionpaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsscreenshotscreenshotsteratrailertrailersvideovideosSat, 07 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Neverwinter discussion and impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-neverwinter-discussion-and-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-neverwinter-discussion-and-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-neverwinter-discussion-and-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Okay, now to do the dungeon part.
Many words come to mind when you mention Dungeons & Dragons, but "action" is not usually one of them. So at first glance, Neverwinter might seem like a bit of an odd beast. The game is meant as an action-based MMORPG that takes place in the distant future of the beloved Neverwinter Nights series; it's being developed by Cryptic Studios and published by Perfect World Entertainment. While the game isn't yet in open testing, the early version was playable on the floor of PAX East, and we had a chance to sit down with Cryptic Studios to discuss the game's development.

I came to the show with no real expectations about the game beyond the fact that I knew the companies involved and was distantly aware of the game's development. I walked away more than a little impressed by what I had seen. However odd the collection of elements might seem, the game itself certainly piqued my interest.

Gallery: Neverwinter

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Neverwinter discussion and impressions

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Neverwinter discussion and impressions originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dungeons and Dragons Online concept art
Dungeons and Dragons Online players are in for a whole new world of adventure when Menace of the Underdark launches this summer. The expansion, due to release on June 25th, will send players into the Forgotten Realms to fight against the Queen of Spiders, Lolth. Executive Producer Fernando Paiz and Senior Producer Eric Boyer welcomed us into their lair... er, Turbine's booth... to talk about the upcoming expansion at this year's PAX East. Read on for our preview!

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Menace of the Underdark brings big changes to Dungeons and Dragons Online

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Menace of the Underdark brings big changes to Dungeons and Dragons Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventionddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeric-boyerexpansionexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfernando-paizfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsmenace-of-the-underdarkpaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 07 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: World of Warplanes impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/pax-east-2012-world-of-warplanes-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/pax-east-2012-world-of-warplanes-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/pax-east-2012-world-of-warplanes-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

This is a game about basketball.
Much like its predecessor, World of Warplanes is not a game with an ambiguous title. This is a game about planes, and not the sort that flies cargo from one point on the globe to another. If flying around and getting into aerial dogfights sounds like an unappealing concept to you, well, you can pretty much just exit stage left when you hear the name.

But the lack of subtlety in the name, however noteworthy, doesn't really say much about the game itself. Is it fun to play? Does it succeed in what it sets out to do? Really, is it just World of Tanks up in the air? I can't speak to the last one, but I can say that it definitely delivers on its stated design goals. This is a game all about maximizing the rush of an aerial fight and striking a balance between crafting an in-depth flight simulation and providing accessibility to those new to the genre.

Gallery: World of Warplanes

Continue reading PAX East 2012: World of Warplanes impressions

MassivelyPAX East 2012: World of Warplanes impressions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SMITE
Move over, MOBAs -- there's a new kid in town. As PAX East 2012 rocks onward, Hi-Rez Studios is flaunting its newest upcoming title, the action-game-inspired MOBA SMITE. Today I got the opportunity to sit down with the game and get my face ground into the floor by the myriad more-experienced players with whom I played. But regardless of my utter incompetence, I still got some hands-on time with the title, so indulge me for a moment and let me tell you about it.

The basic layout of the game will be quite familiar to any MOBA player. It sticks to the tried-and-true formula set forth by Defense of the Ancients in almost every possible way. There are three lanes, each lined with a number of defensive towers, and the ultimate objective is to work in tandem with your teammates and allied NPC creeps with the goal of pushing through the towers and destroying the enemy's giant minotaur.

Wait, what?

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Hands-on with Hi-Rez's new MOBA, SMITE

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Hands-on with Hi-Rez's new MOBA, SMITE originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It should be more like classic Trek, where you have to jettison the warp core every three episodes and the holodeck regularly tries to kill everyone on board.
There's a great big galaxy out there in Star Trek Online, so much so that some things occasionally fall through the cracks. The latest installment of Ask Cryptic focuses on a few of these elements, like the Andorian ship and the addition of a playable Romulan faction. Neither of these elements is on the table for immediate inclusion, but both are in the pipe for future updates; the former is planned for sometime the next year, while the Romulans are on the more distant horizon.

Not everything comes down to a simple "not right now," however. The KDF, for instance, is slated to continue receiving new updates and additional features to bring the faction more in line with the Federation's content level. The development team is also hard at work trying to allow older ships to be retrofitted into higher-level content, letting players take classic designs into modern engagements. It's certainly not a question of whether the development team has a plan or not, just a matter of how soon all of these fabled upgrades will be implemented.

MassivelyNewest Ask Cryptic for Star Trek Online takes a look at the road ahead originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfactionsfree-to-playnew-shipsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewspwesci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoupcoming-contentupdatesThu, 05 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 posts a benchmark and character creator for all [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/phantasy-star-online-2-posts-a-benchmark-and-character-creator-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/phantasy-star-online-2-posts-a-benchmark-and-character-creator-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/phantasy-star-online-2-posts-a-benchmark-and-character-creator-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If there was ever an excuse for breaking out the Genesis for some 16-bit nostalgia, this is it.
If you're an American fan of Phantasy Star Online 2 -- or heck, just a non-Japanese fan -- you're kind of out of luck at the moment. The game is currently not anywhere near a translated state, and testing has thus been mostly limited to Japanese players. If you're in that unlucky boat, however, things are getting at least a little bit better now. The game's character creator and benchmark has just been released for all, whether or not you're testing the game or even able to read the language.

A fan blog for the game features both screenshots of the character creator and corresponding benchmark as well as a guide to getting the program to work on your machine. While it's not quite the same as being able to log into the game and enjoy the testing sequence, it's at least a chance to get a taste of what the game will be like when (and if) it comes to our shores.

[Update: Thanks to Venova for the original tip as well as the news that there's an unofficial English patch for this benchmark toy!]

MassivelyPhantasy Star Online 2 posts a benchmark and character creator for all [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benchmarkforeign-titlesgame-testingjapanjapanesephantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-online-2previewspsopso2segasega-gamestestingupcoming-gamesThu, 05 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World reveals Hell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-secret-world-reveals-hell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-secret-world-reveals-hell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-secret-world-reveals-hell/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Welcome to Hell
Last month, Massively sent freelancer François Blondin to Funcom's studio in Montreal to check out the latest and greatest from The Secret World. His original write-up from the latest Montreal event was his second look at the game, but one part was still under NDA: Hell. In this article, Frank will discuss his impressions of Hell in the game.

Remember the movie Constantine with Keanu Reeves? Remember what Hell looked like there, when he stared into the cat eyes and moved to that realm? Well, this version of Hell is just like that -- with you in the middle.

In The Secret World, Funcom brings us a stunning Hell, with burning winds that scorch the landscape, making things hard to see, silencing you completely when you're in the winds, and burning your precious skin to a crisp if you stand in it too long. You have to run from cover to cover to stop the damage you're taking and allow to use your abilities. But the cover is never safe; enemies are waiting for you.

Continue reading The Secret World reveals Hell

MassivelyThe Secret World reveals Hell originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeondungeonsfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhellhorrorimpressionsmontrealmythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswThu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Eligium's world history, chapter 1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/massively-exclusive-eligiums-world-history-chapter-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/massively-exclusive-eligiums-world-history-chapter-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/massively-exclusive-eligiums-world-history-chapter-1/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Eligium
Maybe you've been following Eligium since it was first announced. Maybe you've been interested after reading our impressions of the title from GDC. Maybe you're only just now hearing about it. Whatever camp you fall into, the game is continuing along with its testing and nearing an official release. And while some players might be interested only in leveling particularly involved mounts and enjoying some wide-open exploration, others want to know a little more about the world the game inhabits.

We've seen snippets of the game's lore from the various racial reveals, but the team at Frogster is putting together a series on the game world's history in more detail. The first installment gives a quick and broad overview of the pre-history of the game's setting; it's just after the cut. If you're interested in the game, enjoy, and keep your eyes peeled for future installments in the history updates.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Eligium's world history, chapter 1

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Eligium's world history, chapter 1 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstoryeligiumeligium-the-chosen-onef2pfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-usagame-historyhistorylorelore-historypreviewsshanda-gamesshanda-interactiveSat, 31 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online cuts the craft in favor of the mod scene]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/champions-online-cuts-the-craft-in-favor-of-the-mod-scene/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/champions-online-cuts-the-craft-in-favor-of-the-mod-scene/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/champions-online-cuts-the-craft-in-favor-of-the-mod-scene/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I'm going to use Fusion to fuse this arrowhead to your brainmeats.
Whether or not you're fond of Champions Online, you probably don't like the game's crafting system. Almost no one does, and apparently not even the developers have been terribly pleased with it. That's why the game is putting that system aside and replacing it with a new system. The Mod and Fusion system will work more along the lines of gear slotting as found in other MMOs. Certain gear comes with slots for Mods, and by combining Mods via Fusion, you can produce more powerful enhancements.

The old crafting skills, meanwhile, tie into the new method of fusing Mods by helping you create stronger Mods and harvest new ones. Extant crafters will also be integrated into the new system; all existing crafted benefits will stay in place (although new ones won't be available), and the crafting-specific travel powers and bags will be moved to other vendors. It's a pretty radical reinvention of the game's current dynamic, but it will hopefully make the game a bit more fun for crafters and non-crafters alike.

MassivelyChampions Online cuts the craft in favor of the mod scene originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscocraftingcraftscrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemspatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewspwesuperherosuperheroesupdatesFri, 30 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 beta questions: Answered!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/guild-wars-2-beta-questions-answered/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/guild-wars-2-beta-questions-answered/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/guild-wars-2-beta-questions-answered/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2: Party On, dude!
The second Guild Wars 2 press beta weekend has come and gone, and Massively was there every step of the way. Stay tuned throughout the day today for even more guides, impressions, videos, and Q&As to get you ready for the highly anticipated sequel to Guild Wars.

Last week we asked for your Guild Wars 2 questions as we prepared to head into the beta weekend, and boy did you rise to the occasion! After sorting through all the questions, we made a list of the most interesting and frequently repeated ones to investigate. Have a question you don't see answered here? Tonight I'll be doing a live question-and-answer session on Massively's own livestream! Tune in at 7:00 p.m. EDT and ask away!

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 beta questions: Answered!

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 beta questions: Answered! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenaneteventsfantasyfeaturedguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-previewgw2iron-legionncsoftpreviewpreviewsq-and-aqaquestions-and-answersrespecMon, 26 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2: For glory!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/guild-wars-2-for-glory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/guild-wars-2-for-glory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/guild-wars-2-for-glory/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

GW2
The second Guild Wars 2 press beta weekend has come and gone, and Massively was there every step of the way. Stay tuned throughout the day today for even more guides, impressions, videos, and Q&As to get you ready for the highly anticipated sequel to Guild Wars.

A lot of my weekend was devoted to glory, both the in-game resource that you earn for competing in PvP and that distinction that you wallow in after doing something cool. The game allows for a lot of something-cools to be done, but the ones I'm presently interested in are hot-joinable PvP and the beta's one accessible dungeon.

Continue reading Guild Wars 2: For glory!

MassivelyGuild Wars 2: For glory! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbattle-of-khylobetacatacombs-of-ascalondungeonfantasyfeaturedforest-of-niflhelguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-previewgw2gw2-beta-weekendncsoftpreviewpreviewspvptrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 26 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at Guild Wars 2's world vs. world PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/a-look-at-guild-wars-2s-world-vs-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/a-look-at-guild-wars-2s-world-vs-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/a-look-at-guild-wars-2s-world-vs-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Guild Wars 2
The second Guild Wars 2 press beta weekend has come and gone, and Massively was there every step of the way. Stay tuned throughout the day today for even more guides, impressions, videos, and Q&As to get you ready for the highly anticipated sequel to Guild Wars.

The most recent Guild Wars 2 beta weekend has wound to a close (much to my dismay), but thankfully my time in Tyria has not been wasted. Oh, heavens no. I spent the majority of the weekend running around the war-torn borderlands and getting the everloving daylights stomped out of me in the game's world vs. world combat.

When I wasn't busy acquainting my face with the ground, however, I had plenty of time to meander about the battlefield of The Mists, storming keeps, cutting off supply caravans, and defending encampments, and now I finally get to share my impressions with all of you fine readers. So what did I think about GW2's WvW system (my total lack of PvP ability aside)? Rev up your siege engines and gird your proverbial loins, then follow past the cut to find out!

Continue reading A look at Guild Wars 2's world vs. world PvP

MassivelyA look at Guild Wars 2's world vs. world PvP originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetafantasyfeaturedguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-previewgw2hands-onncsoftplayer-vs-playerpreviewpreviewspvpworld-vs-worldwvwwvwvwMon, 26 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Making the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/making-the-jump-from-guild-wars-to-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Black Citadel Forest, Guild Wars 2
The second Guild Wars 2 press beta weekend has come and gone, and Massively was there every step of the way. Stay tuned throughout the day today for even more guides, impressions, videos, and Q&As to get you ready for the highly anticipated sequel to Guild Wars.

Guild Wars 2 is on the way (when it's ready), and classic Guild Wars players probably understand that soon they'll be competing with a younger sibling -- a smarter, more attractive one who's sure to get more of mom's attention. And while we're sure that some of the more stalwart Guild Wars 2 fans are also Guild Wars players, not all veterans of the first edition are dedicated to licking up every drop of sequel info squeezed out of blogs, conventions, and betas. Those veterans might just be wondering, what exactly can Guild Wars 2 offer them, other than Hall of Monuments tie-ins? What's changed? What's the same? What will they love, what will they hate, and what could possibly make them jump ship to the new hotness?

The first and most important thing you must know is that yes, you can jump in Guild Wars 2! Seriously, though, jumping is more than just a thing you do with your spacebar when you're bored; it's a symbol of boundlessness. Guild Wars 2 itself is trying to jump a lot higher than its elder brother, and probably the essential difference between the games is that feeling that the walls have come down and gravity is letting loose. That alone should urge classic players to take a peek, but if that's not enough for you, fire up your Jeremy Soule soundtracks (yes, he's onboard for an encore!) and read on...

Continue reading Making the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2

MassivelyMaking the 'jump' from Guild Wars to Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetauction-hallbetacash-shopcharacter-creationclosed-betaclosed-beta-3comparisondeathdeath-penaltydungeonsdynamic-contenteconomyendgameeye-of-the-northfantasyfeaturedgeargemsgroupgroupingguideguidesguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-guideguild-wars-2-previewguildsgvggwgw2hall-of-monumentshands-onhominterfacejumpjumpingloremap-travelncsoftpreviewpreviewspropheciespvpquestsrenown-heartrmtsidekickingskill-pointtrading-posttyriauiuser-interfaceworld-vs-worldworld-vs-world-vs-worldwvwwvwvwMon, 26 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST