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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: MMOs that died in development hell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-perfect-ten-mmos-that-died-in-development-hell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-perfect-ten-mmos-that-died-in-development-hell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/the-perfect-ten-mmos-that-died-in-development-hell/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Perfect Ten MMOs that died in development hell
If you know me, you probably know that I have a weird fascination with alternate history. You know, the daydreams of historians when they're not rewriting the past to suit the latest trends. "What if?" my mind wonders, especially when it comes to MMOs.

You see, for every game that actually makes it to launch, there are several that die gasping and alone in the bowels of development hell. Sure, many of these are pathetic creatures that didn't really stand a chance anyway, but there are some that could have made an impact on the industry if they had reached release and been halfway decent. We'll never know what a world would look like with these games in them, but we can always muse, "What if?"

Continuing Perfect Ten's recent dark streak, here are 10 MMOs that died in development hell; it's to our eternal loss that we'll never get to play them.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: MMOs that died in development hell

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: MMOs that died in development hell originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscheyanne-mountain-entertainmentcodemastersdark-age-of-cameloteafeaturedhalohalo-mmohumorimperator-onlinejagexjumpgatejumpgate-evolutionlevel-5microsoftmythicmythicaopinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenproject-copernicusra-salvatoreroundupstargate-worldsstellar-dawnthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthqtodd-mcFarlanetop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtrue-fantasy-livetrue-fantasy-live-onlineultima-xultima-x-odysseywar40kwarhammer-40000-dark-millennium-onlineThu, 09 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhode Island attempting to default on 38 Studios' debt]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/rhode-island-attempting-to-default-on-38-studios-debt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/rhode-island-attempting-to-default-on-38-studios-debt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/rhode-island-attempting-to-default-on-38-studios-debt/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Rhode Island attempting to default on 38 Studios' debt
The AP is reporting that Rhode Island is attempting to default on the debt it owes for 38 Studios' $75 million loan and subsequent bankruptcy. The state has a proposal before lawmakers that would keep it from having to make any payments to bond holders.

Supporters of the move to default say that the insurance company will compensate bond holders, while the EDC, which approved the loan, says that defaulting will hurt future project and bond ratings. One lawmaker and default proponent, Rep. Charlene Lima, said that the 38 Studios fiasco harmed the reputation of the state and constricted its future economic development.

The proposal is being opposed by Governor Lincoln Chafee, who wants to see the debt repaid.

MassivelyRhode Island attempting to default on 38 Studios' debt originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbankruptcycurt-schillingdefaultedcgovernorlawlawsuitlegalLincoln-Chafeeloanmmo-industryproject-copernicuspublic-loanrhode-islandrhode-island-economic-development-corporationThu, 11 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios may have 'actively masked' its financial hardship]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/38-studios-may-have-actively-masked-financial-hardship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/38-studios-may-have-actively-masked-financial-hardship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/38-studios-may-have-actively-masked-financial-hardship/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

38 Studios may have 'actively masked' financial hardship
Just when you thought the world might let the wound where 38 Studios and Kingdoms of Amalur were ripped from your heart heal over, along comes some new drama.

Max Wistow, the lawyer for the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation, filed documents on behalf of the state claiming that 38 Studios needed more than $75 million in loan guarantees before the company ever moved to Rhode Island. He argues that folks at 38 Studios knew that the funds they were receiving from the state would be insufficient. The company netted about $50 million from an EDC bond sale, and Wistow is claiming "crushing evidence" that 38 Studios actively masked its financial shortfall.

Massively38 Studios may have 'actively masked' its financial hardship originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studios38samalurcopernicuscurt-schillingedckingdoms-of-amalurkoaproject-copernicusrhode-islandFri, 05 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Curt Schilling asks judge to dismiss 38 Studios fraud lawsuit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/curt-schilling-asks-judge-to-dismiss-38-studios-fraud-lawsuit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/curt-schilling-asks-judge-to-dismiss-38-studios-fraud-lawsuit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/curt-schilling-asks-judge-to-dismiss-38-studios-fraud-lawsuit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I'm surprised that no one, including myself, has made more baseball-related puns about these events.
Let's assume for a moment that you're Curt Schilling, formerly of the Red Sox and formerly of the now-defunct 38 Studios. You're facing a massive lawsuit for fraud regarding a $75 million loan from the state of Rhode Island. What do you do? It appears that Mr. Schilling's first approach is to ask the judge on the case to throw out the case entirely, claiming that the basis of the case is itself fraudulent.

The crux of the lawsuit is the state's claim that Schilling and the 38 Studios board of directors willfully obfuscated the company's status from state lawmakers. Schilling has put forth that 38 Studios fully disclosed its status to the state investors on numerous occasion, providing them with an accurate picture of the company's financial situation. Due to this disclosure the allegations of fraud and obfuscation are simply not possible, hence the request for dismissal. Schilling goes on to claim that the entire suit is politically motivated and that the company's failure is chiefly due to Governor Lincoln Chafee not doing enough to save 38 Studios from bankruptcy.

MassivelyCurt Schilling asks judge to dismiss 38 Studios fraud lawsuit originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbankruptcycurt-schillingfraudkingdoms-of-amalurlawsuitlegallegal-storiesnewsproject-copernicusrhode-islandstate-of-rhode-islandMon, 04 Mar 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Todd McFarlane talks about Project Copernicus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/todd-mcfarlane-talks-about-project-copernicus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/todd-mcfarlane-talks-about-project-copernicus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/todd-mcfarlane-talks-about-project-copernicus/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

mcfarlane rambles on about copernicus
Spawn creator Todd McFarlane spoke with Kotaku recently and had some things to say about Project Copernicus, 38 Studios' would-have-been Kingdoms of Amalur MMO. He was the project's art director and says he really thought that it "was going to raise the bar." He remains hopeful that, in time, somebody will "be smart enough" to come in, sweep up the pieces of the unfinished MMO, and make something of it.

The way McFarlane described it, Project Copernicus was very nearly a finished thing. "It's only ten yards away from the goal line," he explained. "If I had the extra cash I'd do it myself, because it's that cool."

Skip below the cut to check out the full interview. (Project Copernicus talk begins at about the 5:20 mark.)

Continue reading Todd McFarlane talks about Project Copernicus

MassivelyTodd McFarlane talks about Project Copernicus originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscopernicusinterviewkingdoms-of-amalurkotakuproject-copernicustodd-mcfarlanevideovideosWed, 13 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Which unfinished MMO would you love to play?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/the-daily-grind-which-unfinished-mmo-would-you-love-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/the-daily-grind-which-unfinished-mmo-would-you-love-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/the-daily-grind-which-unfinished-mmo-would-you-love-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Daily Grind What unfinished MMO would you love to play
For every MMO that makes it to release, there's probably two that died a sad death along the way. Sometimes it's the decision of the studio or publisher to can it, sometimes it's the result of finances, and sometimes it's just plum bad fortune. Whatever the case, the history of MMOs is littered with half-finished games that will never see the light of day.

But what if? What if you had the power to magically resurrect, finish, and release just one of these games? Which one would it be?

Would it be the intriguing Ultima X: Odyssey, the original Middle-earth Online, or True Fantasy Live Online? What about Privateer Online, Imperator Online, or Project Copernicus? Or would it be a different game altogther?

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: Which unfinished MMO would you love to play? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindimperatorimperator-onlinemeomiddle-earth-onlineopinionprivateer-onlineproject-copernicustdgthe-daily-grindtrue-fantasy-live-onlineultima-x-odysseyuxoWed, 30 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios debt to be partially repaid with bloody sock]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/38-studios-debt-to-be-partially-repaid-with-bloody-sock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/38-studios-debt-to-be-partially-repaid-with-bloody-sock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/38-studios-debt-to-be-partially-repaid-with-bloody-sock/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ew wtf
In 2004, Curt Schilling ignored his doctor's advice and hobbled to the pitcher's mound with a wounded right ankle to win Game Two of the World Series, clenching the second of four straight victories against the St. Louis Cardinals and proving that the Curse of the Bambino had run its course.

The blood-stained sock worn by Schilling on that day is now stuff of Boston legend and had become quite an icon during the series. It seemed to be a piece of memorabilia that Schilling wouldn't dare part with, but his recent business dealings have forced his hand. And foot.

If you find yourself in need of a used bloody sock to frame in your sports den, you can start the bidding on February 4th. Schilling hopes to raise at least $100,000 through the auction.

Massively38 Studios debt to be partially repaid with bloody sock originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbloody-sockbostoncurse-of-the-bambinocurt-schillingewgrossproject-copernicusred-sockred-soxThu, 17 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: My biggest gaming moments in 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/the-perfect-ten-my-biggest-gaming-moments-in-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/the-perfect-ten-my-biggest-gaming-moments-in-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/20/the-perfect-ten-my-biggest-gaming-moments-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten My biggest gaming moments in 2012
I am a complete sucker for three things: novelty soft drink flavors, Tom Servo's singing voice in MST3K, and end-of-the-year lists. Egads, I love the end of the year just for the lists alone. Everyone does them (copycats!), and I like to see how my opinions stack up against them. Plus, often I learn of cool things that happened or came out during the past year that I missed.

So this is my list. My end-of-2012 list. I am devoting the 26th Perfect Ten of 2012 to the top 10 moments in MMO gaming and blogging. It was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, and looking back, I don't think I could've predicted half of the major events that happened in this industry. That's what I like about this gig: It keeps me on my toes.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: My biggest gaming moments in 2012

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: My biggest gaming moments in 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosanetarenanetbiowarebuy-to-playcamelotcity-of-heroescity-of-villainsclassic-mmocohcovcoxdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artseqeq1eqmaceverquesteverquest-macintoshf2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomfuncomguild-wars-2gw2horrorhumorjohn-smedleylucasartsmst3kmythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyncsoftopinionp10paragonparagon-studiosperfect-10perfect-tenproject-copernicuspvprounduprvrsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedsoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtorthe-old-republicthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthe-secret-worldtom-servotop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtortswThu, 20 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 223: Island vacation getaway]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/massively-speaking-episode-223-island-vacation-getaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/massively-speaking-episode-223-island-vacation-getaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/massively-speaking-episode-223-island-vacation-getaway/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 223
Justin and Lis are packing their bags and setting out on Tyria Cruise Lines for destinations unknown! Even dedicated MMO players need a vacation once in a while, so why not abandon the life of slaughter for a respite on a beautiful beach somewhere? That always sounds good, of course, until one starts to wonder if that crab over there will drop any good loot...

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 223: Island vacation getaway

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 223: Island vacation getaway originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asherons-callbrantbrianna-roycedisneydust-514featuredguild-wars-2humorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingopinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastsproject-copernicusstar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicswgswtorvanguardTue, 06 Nov 2012 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 223Massively.com Staff00:35:12podcast<![CDATA[Rhode Island EDC sues Curt Schilling and more over 38 Studios loan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/rhode-island-edc-sues-curt-schilling-and-more-over-38-studios-lo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/rhode-island-edc-sues-curt-schilling-and-more-over-38-studios-lo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/rhode-island-edc-sues-curt-schilling-and-more-over-38-studios-lo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Game title image
Back in May, Project Copernicus developer 38 Studios became embroiled in the controversy of the year when the studio officially shut down and fired all 379 of its employees. The story quickly turned political as the studio had been granted a loan of $75m US by the state of Rhode Island and it became known that the tax-paying public could be hit for an estimated $150.7m US due to the studio's closure.

The story of mishandled taxpayer money has played a big part in the politics of Rhode Island. Today that story developed further as the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (EDC), which granted the original loan and may therefore be responsible for the public debt, filed a lawsuit against the people who created the deal. The defendants named in the case include 38 Studios founder Curt Schilling, CEO Jennifer McLean, former EDC executive director Keith Stokes, Wells Fargo Securities and even Barclays Capital. Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee released a public statement about the lawsuit on YouTube.

Continue reading Rhode Island EDC sues Curt Schilling and more over 38 Studios loan

MassivelyRhode Island EDC sues Curt Schilling and more over 38 Studios loan originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosBarclays-Capitalbreakingcurt-schillingedcgovernorJennifer-McLeanKeith-StokeslawsuitlegalLincoln-Chafeeloanmmo-industryproject-copernicuspublic-loanrhode-islandrhode-island-economic-development-corporationstatementsuevideoThu, 01 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE snags Project Copernicus lead dev for Vanguard]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/soe-snags-project-copernicus-lead-dev-for-vanguard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/soe-snags-project-copernicus-lead-dev-for-vanguard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/29/soe-snags-project-copernicus-lead-dev-for-vanguard/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SOE snags Project Copernicus lead dev for Vanguard
Former 38 Studios Lead Developer Steve Danuser is back in SOE's fold, this time working on Vanguard as a Creative Director. Danuser was originally a community manager for EverQuest II, but left SOE in 2006 to work on Project Copernicus. SOE recently announced his return and posted a developer spotlight on his history with MMOs and the company.

Danuser is seemingly delighted with his new post: "I must say it's great to be back. Seeing so many old friends and colleagues again, it feels like coming home!"

He mentions that some of the video game influences in his life that led him to development included Atari 2600 games and the Ultima series. In fact, one of the reasons he states that he enjoys Vanguard is that it captures "the qualities of classic RPGs."

The biggest priority for Danuser and the rest of the Vanguard team is to improve the overall experience across the board, including bug fixes, hardware performance, and to revamp older content.

[Thanks to John for the tip!]

MassivelySOE snags Project Copernicus lead dev for Vanguard originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosdev-spotlightdeveloper-spotlighteq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playinterviewproject-copernicussandboxsoesonysony-online-entertainmentSteve-Danusertelonvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgMon, 29 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios auctions recoup $830k of $150.7M owed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/38-studios-auctions-recoup-830k-of-150-7-million-owed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/38-studios-auctions-recoup-830k-of-150-7-million-owed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/38-studios-auctions-recoup-830k-of-150-7-million-owed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

38 Studios auctions recoup $830k of $1507 million owed
Earlier this week, 38 Studios' former headquarters in Providence, Rhode Island played host to a public auction that brought in approximately $650,000 through over 1,000 bidders. If you combine this number with last week's auction at the studio's Big Huge Games division, the total recouped through auctions came to $830,000. This is unfortunately only a fraction of the estimated $150.7 million owed in bankruptcy filings, but the best part hasn't been put up on the block yet.

The Kingdoms of Amalur intellectual property is said to be "sold in a negotiated transaction over the next three to six months," according to Joystiq. The total from that sale doesn't expect to cover the entire amount owed, which leaves the remainder up to the Rhode Island taxpayers.

Massively38 Studios auctions recoup $830k of $150.7M owed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosauctionBig-Huge-Gamescurt-schillingkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningproject-copernicusrhode-islandswing-and-a-missFri, 26 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Curt Schilling might pay back debt by selling baseball memorabilia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/curt-schilling-might-pay-back-debt-by-selling-baseball-memorabil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/curt-schilling-might-pay-back-debt-by-selling-baseball-memorabil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/curt-schilling-might-pay-back-debt-by-selling-baseball-memorabil/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Curt Schilling auctions off baseball souvenirs to pay back debt
Curt Schilling is most recently famous for failing spectacularly at using loans from Rhode Island and investors to create a Kingdoms of Amalur MMO. As the founder of the now-bankrupt 38 studios and someone who personally guaranteed some $12 million worth of loans related to the studio, Schilling's lucky that he was famous for other stuff before stepping into game development.

For example, Schilling was one of the best pitchers in American League baseball in 2004 and played for the Boston Red Sox, the only team in MLB history to win a seven-game series after losing the first three games. A bloody sock that he wore during that series is listed (along with World War II-era memorabilia, one of Lou Gehrig's baseball caps, his home, and a stake in a private equity firm) in a collateral filing.

MassivelyCurt Schilling might pay back debt by selling baseball memorabilia originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbostoncollateralcopernicuscurt-schillingdebtkingdoms-of-amalurmmo-industryproject-copernicusred-soxrhode-islandschillingThu, 04 Oct 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios assets to be auctioned off in October]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/38-studios-assets-to-be-auctioned-off-in-october/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/38-studios-assets-to-be-auctioned-off-in-october/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/38-studios-assets-to-be-auctioned-off-in-october/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

38 Studios assets to be auctioned off in October
After a series of misfortunes, 38 Studios closed down last May and then filed for bankruptcy in June. Next month, the assets of the company that was working on the MMO known as Project Copernicus will be auctioned off. The auctions -- scheduled for October 16th and the 23rd -- will include office furniture and equipment, TVs, audio recording equipment, graphic design and animation equipment, computers, servers, and more.

Currently listed in the assets are XBox 360 Development Kits, which Microsoft is requesting be removed since they are the property of Microsoft and not 38 Studios.

Massively38 Studios assets to be auctioned off in October originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30-studiosasset-auctionassetsauctionBankruptclosurecurt-schillingfinancialMicrosoftProject-Copernicusthe-game-that-could-have-beenXbox-360Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[R.A. Salvatore details the lack of death in Project Copernicus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/r-a-salvatore-details-the-lack-of-death-in-project-coperniucs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/r-a-salvatore-details-the-lack-of-death-in-project-coperniucs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/r-a-salvatore-details-the-lack-of-death-in-project-coperniucs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dying of starvation and then being reborn would kind of blow. Especially if you were in the middle of nowhere.
"To be or not to be" is not a question asked in most MMOs. Characters don't die permanently, after all. But Project Copernicus wouldn't have waved that fact off as an irrelevant necessity of game mechanics. No, according to R.A. Salvatore, the game world would have explored the meaning behind a world wherein no one truly dies and everyone is functionally immortal.

Players who enjoyed Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning will recall that the game opens with the player character returning from death thanks to the Well of Souls. In Project Copernicus, the Well of Souls would have been active not just for one individual but for everyone in the world. Returning from death would be something that happens not just to players but to every part of the world.

It's not hard to imagine the ways in which a world would seem different if death was no longer something to be feared or avoided. Salvatore laments that the concept is unlikely to see execution now, even with buyers looking to purchase the 38 Studios assets from the state of Rhode Island.

MassivelyR.A. Salvatore details the lack of death in Project Copernicus originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosamalurbackstorycancelled-gamescopernicusdeathdeath-mechanicsdragon-condragon-con-2012kingdoms-of-amalurloreproject-copernicusr.a.-salvatorerhode-islandwhat-could-have-beenwritingWed, 12 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios loan could impact state elections]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/38-studios-loan-could-impact-state-elections/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/38-studios-loan-could-impact-state-elections/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/11/38-studios-loan-could-impact-state-elections/#commentsFiled under: , ,

38 Studios loan impacts state elections
If you've started to forget about the saga of 38 Studios' collapse, rest assured that Rhode Island politicians certainly have not. With the election coming soon, many in the state are scrambling to offset the blame for the $75 million loan decision and protect their positions. The Associated Press is reporting that it's being seen as a "liability" among candidates.

One candidate, Mark Binder, addressed the continued furor over the issue: "If I don't bring it up, other people bring it up. Everyone is infuriated. There's this game going on in Rhode Island right now called 'pass the blame on 38 Studios.'"

While many of those directly responsible for voting the deal through have since resigned from their positions, the search to pin the fiasco on one of the state's leaders is still underway. Another 2012 candidate, Laura Pisaturo, said that the public is demanding more answers: "People read in the paper about 38 Studios and think 'we elect these people and expect they will lead and ask tough questions.'"

Massively38 Studios loan could impact state elections originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studios38-studios-copernicusassetsbusinesscopernicuscourtedcfinancefinancesgaming-industryindustryintellectual-propertyipkingdoms-of-amalurlegalmmo-industryproject-copernicusrhode-islandrhode-island-economic-development-corporationTue, 11 Sep 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Blender: Eliot's Copernican dream]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/mmo-blender-eliots-copernican-dream/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/mmo-blender-eliots-copernican-dream/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/31/mmo-blender-eliots-copernican-dream/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Whoops, that was apparently the place I lived. Well, spilled milk.
When I tried Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning for the first time, I fell in love. Not with the story, and not with the art, but with several elements of the actual game itself. The idea of having all of that brought into the MMO space filled me with a lot of excitement, but I had a feeling that we'd never actually see it come to pass.

For those of you who missed out on what happened with 38 Studios, possibly because you read the internet on some bizarre time-lapse system, here's the deal: We're never going to see Project Copernicus come to pass. Oh, sure, we might wind up with something that vaguely resembles that game, but odds are low. More likely the franchise is going to be sold off by the state of Rhode Island for a pittance, and if the game ever resumes production, it'll bear only the faintest traces of its origins -- some art assets and little else.

I'm not shedding tears over the world, though. In fact, I'm not going to shed tears at all because I think there's something to be built upon from the ideas of that single-player game, ideas that could make for an excellent MMO. And like any good gestalt, it reaches out to be something much more than the sum of its parts.

Continue reading MMO Blender: Eliot's Copernican dream

MassivelyMMO Blender: Eliot's Copernican dream originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosarmchair-game-designcancelled-titlesfavorite-mmofeaturedff14ffxivfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-designgame-mechanicsguild-wars-2gw2hypothetical-titleskingdoms-of-amalurkoamechanicsmmo-blendermmo-mechanicsmmo-mix-tapemmo-mixologyopinionproject-copernicusriftryzomsaga-of-ryzomstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorwarwarhammer-onlineFri, 31 Aug 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More Project Copernicus videos highlight Jottunhessen]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/more-project-copernicus-videos-highlight-jottunhessen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/more-project-copernicus-videos-highlight-jottunhessen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/more-project-copernicus-videos-highlight-jottunhessen/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

More Project Copernicus videos highlight Jottunhessen
Is it harder waiting in anticipation for a game that may never be or mourning a game that could have been but died? Unfortunately, MMO players who were looking forward to the completion of Copernicus have the opportunity to test that question for themselves, and more videos are revealing just what the players will be missing out on.

Yesterday we shared a Copernicus video fly-through highlighting parts of the game. Today, two more videos give viewers a virtual tour of the splendor of the city of Jottunhessen. Check them out after the break.

Continue reading More Project Copernicus videos highlight Jottunhessen

MassivelyMore Project Copernicus videos highlight Jottunhessen originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3838-studioscopernicusflythroughflythrough-videosJottunhessenproject-copernicustourwhat-could-have-beenThu, 23 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhode Island possesses 38 Studios' games, looks to sell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/rhode-island-possesses-38-studios-games-looks-to-sell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/rhode-island-possesses-38-studios-games-looks-to-sell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/rhode-island-possesses-38-studios-games-looks-to-sell/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Rhode Island possesses 38 Studios assets, puts them up for sale
While 38 Studios is finished, its employees laid off, and its projects canceled, there's really only one thing left to be done: figure out what to do with the leftovers. The court granted the state of Rhode Island all of 38 Studios' assets, including rights to its single-player RPG and the unfinished Project Copernicus.

The Rhode Island Economic Development Corp said that it will attempt to sell these assets to recoup as much of the loan made to the studio as possible.

This may be a slight blessing in disguise for fans of the studio's projects, as the move was made to keep the intellectual property intact instead of having it be lost due to the company's dismantling. The games are being transferred to servers for safe-keeping and constitute a majority of the studio's remaining net worth.

MassivelyRhode Island possesses 38 Studios' games, looks to sell originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studios38-studios-copernicusassetsbusinesscopernicuscourtfinancefinancesgaming-industryindustryintellectual-propertyipkingdoms-of-amalurlegalmmo-industryproject-copernicusrhode-islandrhode-island-economic-development-corporationThu, 09 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at Curt Schilling's management of 38 Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/23/a-look-at-curt-schillings-management-of-38-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/23/a-look-at-curt-schillings-management-of-38-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/23/a-look-at-curt-schillings-management-of-38-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There's really no pretty face to be put on any of this.
The dust has more or less settled around the demise of 38 Studios, but much of the information about what happened to lead the company so deep into the hole is fragmented. Some fans admonish the Rhode Island governor, some admonish Curt Schilling, and some admonish the management team that led to several poor decisions. A new piece in Boston Magazine goes into depth about where Schilling's management caused problems and how the culture at the studio slowly deteriorated.

The article paints Schilling as being relentlessly optimistic and dedicated to his employees but at the same time unfamiliar with business and the realities of running a game company. He also wound up with a bloated staff and disregarded information from management, leading to conflicting demands and a general lack of progress on major deadlines for Project Copernicus. If you've got any interest in the game industry, it's a fascinating look at how a game company can start with high hopes and dissolve under financial realities.

MassivelyA look at Curt Schilling's management of 38 Studios originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jul 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studios38-studios-copernicusbusinesscopernicuscurt-schillingfinancefinancesgaming-industryindustrykingdoms-of-amalurmmo-industryproject-copernicusretrospectiveMon, 23 Jul 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO subscriber numbers have peaked, says industry analyst]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/10/mmo-subscriber-numbers-have-peaked-says-industry-analyst/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/10/mmo-subscriber-numbers-have-peaked-says-industry-analyst/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/10/mmo-subscriber-numbers-have-peaked-says-industry-analyst/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MMO subscriber numbers have peaked, says industry analyst
Whether you love him, hate him, respect him, or ignore him, when Michael Pachter speaks, his voice carries. So it's of note that everyone's favorite videogame analyst is back with a few more controversial remarks concerning the growth -- or lack of it -- in the MMO market.

Speaking at the Evolve Conference, Pachter said, "It looks to me as though the MMO market is as big as it's ever going to be -- as far as subscription MMOs. People willing to play $15 a month, there are six or seven million of them. Period. If Star Wars couldn't expand it, when it's made by BioWare, nothing can do it. That's why Curt Schilling's 38 Studios went out of business, because he couldn't get financing."

In May, Pachter proclaimed that nobody was buying MMOs after Star Wars: The Old Republic's launch.

MassivelyMMO subscriber numbers have peaked, says industry analyst originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jul 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosanalystbiowarecopernicuscurt-schillingeaelectronic-artsevolveevolve-conferencelucasartsmarket-analystMichael-Pachteropen-mouth-insert-ignorant-footproject-copernicussci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republicthese-two-things-do-not-connecttorTue, 10 Jul 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Subpoenas issued over 38 Studios deal, Citizens Bank sues Schilling [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/law-enforcement-issues-subpoenas-over-38-studios-deal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/law-enforcement-issues-subpoenas-over-38-studios-deal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/law-enforcement-issues-subpoenas-over-38-studios-deal/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Law enforcement issues subpoenas over 38 Studios deal
While the fallout from 38 Studios' collapse carries with it a human toll, it also has triggered a legal one as well. State and federal law enforcement agencies have issued subpoenas to both Bank Rhode Island and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation over the loans that enticed the game studio to the state.

Currently, the RI state police, the state attorney general's office, the FBI, and the US attorney's office are jointly looking into the situation. Police are investigating the specifics of the deals in an attempt to figure out what exactly happened. The subpoenas requested records of the financial contracts and loans.

Both the RIEDC's $75M in taxpayer bonds and Bank Rhode Island's $8.5M loan are unlikely to be repaid following the studio's bankruptcy.

[Update: Massively reader Zaken tipped us off to the fact that Citizens Bank has announced it is suing 38 Studios' Curt Schilling to the tune of $2.4 million "in an attempt to recoup its money from the ex-ballplayer's personal assets."]

MassivelySubpoenas issued over 38 Studios deal, Citizens Bank sues Schilling [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jun 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbankruptcycurt-schillingfbilawlaw-enforcementlegalloanpoliceproject-copernicusrhode-islandriedcThu, 14 Jun 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steve Danuser weighs in on the 38 Studios debacle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/steve-danuser-weighs-in-on-the-38-studios-debacle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/steve-danuser-weighs-in-on-the-38-studios-debacle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/steve-danuser-weighs-in-on-the-38-studios-debacle/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Concept Art -- Project Copernicus
It's been one hell of a month for the folks at the now-bankrupt 38 Studios, but so far we've heard precious little from anyone directly involved with the Project Copernicus developer. Today, 38 Studios' former Creative Director, Steve Danuser, has broken that silence with a post about the matter on his personal blog.

The post doesn't really do much to shed any light on the events that led to the studio's fall, but it does provide one thing that has been lacking: A look at the people affected by the debacle. Danuser takes the time to talk about the rollercoaster of emotions that he and other 38 Studios employees have been riding for the better part of the last month, stating that "the only people who really understand are the ones who make up this now fractured fraternity that was once a great team." It really is a very personal read, but it adds a fresh, human perspective to a story that has, until now, been addressed only from the angles of finance and industry. To read it all for yourself, head on over to Danuser's blog. Oh, and if you're the emotional sort, it may help to have some tissues handy.

MassivelySteve Danuser weighs in on the 38 Studios debacle originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscopernicuscultureindustrymmo-culturemmo-industryproject-copernicussteve-danuserTue, 12 Jun 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: This fantasy is far from fantastic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/the-soapbox-this-fantasy-is-far-from-fantastic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/the-soapbox-this-fantasy-is-far-from-fantastic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/12/the-soapbox-this-fantasy-is-far-from-fantastic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

"More innovation!" is the common rallying cry of the disgruntled MMO player. Push forward the genre, build awe-inspiring giant statues instead of sixth grade art projects, do that one magic thing that nobody can agree on to make this genre as fresh and great and interesting as it was. You know, as it was when you first got into these games, that is.

For all of the "more innovation!" speeches that I've seen, I never see the one that touches on the most irksome areas of stagnation in the industry, and that is how incredibly lame most MMO fantasy worlds are. Cut 'n' paste, mix and match elements between any two fantasy MMOs, and I guarantee you that nobody would really notice. The truth is that for all their desire to be seen as unique and special, most of these games feature a world carbon copied from each other with minor Mad Lib deviations.

Case in point: Have you ever realized just how many of these MMO worlds share almost the same name? Start with T, usually end with A, there you go. Telara. Telon. Tyria. Atreia. Taborea. It doesn't stop there, but it really should. MMO designers need to realize that fantasy is more than just D&D and Tolkien derivations and explore the unlimited scope of what the genre could be.

Continue reading The Soapbox: This fantasy is far from fantastic

MassivelyThe Soapbox: This fantasy is far from fantastic originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acactivisionasherons-callbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studioschronicles-of-spellbornclassic-mmoconquestcopernicusdaggerfallddodnddragon-agedungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeditorialelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlineen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfactionsfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playjrr-tolkienlinuxlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromacmorrowindoblivionop-edopinionpcplease-dont-suckproject-copernicuspvprantrantsreckoningriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrryzomsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiskyrimsoapboxsonic-the-hedgehogtamrielteratestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethe-soapboxthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptolkientriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentwarcraftwinch-gatewinch-gate-property-limitedwinch-gate-property-lldwinchgateworld-of-warcraftwowzenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosTue, 12 Jun 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios declares bankruptcy, law enforcement investigating [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/07/38-studios-declares-bankruptcy-law-enforcement-investigating/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/07/38-studios-declares-bankruptcy-law-enforcement-investigating/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/07/38-studios-declares-bankruptcy-law-enforcement-investigating/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Project Copernicus
38 Studios, in a move surprising absolutely no one, has declared bankruptcy. This report comes hot on the heels of the news that the Project Copernicus developer has laid off all of its employees and sold Big Huge Games. In addition to covering the bankruptcy, the Providence Journal revealed that "state and federal authorities have launched an investigation into [the company]."

State police Col. Steven G. O'Donnell states that the inquiry is taking place "to investigate activities that have recently come to light at 38 Studios." According to the Journal, these activities include taking out loans totaling $8.5 million US "based on state film tax credits that had not yet been issued." Things are looking pretty grim for Curt Schilling and his studio, but we'll just have to stay tuned to see how the rest of this plays out.

[Update: Our sister site Joystiq reports that the Rhode Island governor has stated, "We are going to do everything possible to maximize return on our investment [...] Taxpayers in Rhode Island can have full confidence that if there's a penny that we can get, or a nickle or a dime, we'll get it." The company is suspected to be worth "tens of millions of dollars."]

Massively38 Studios declares bankruptcy, law enforcement investigating [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jun 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbankruptbankruptcybig-huge-gamescopernicuscurt-schillingeconomyindustrykingdoms-of-amalurkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningmmo-industryproject-copernicusThu, 07 Jun 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion Worlds CEO pinpoints the failings of 38 Studios and Star Wars: The Old Republic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/trion-worlds-ceo-pinpoints-the-failings-of-38-studios-and-star-w/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/trion-worlds-ceo-pinpoints-the-failings-of-38-studios-and-star-w/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/trion-worlds-ceo-pinpoints-the-failings-of-38-studios-and-star-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Trion's CEO dissects 38 Studios and SWTOR's failings
Trion Worlds' CEO Lars Buttler has never been one to pussyfoot around his competition, and at this year's E3, Buttler bluntly addressed what he saw as the failings of both 38 Studios and Star Wars: The Old Republic.

Buttler talked about said studio and game in light of the perceived crumbling of the AAA MMO segment. Citing different issues between the two companies and projects, he said that "process management" was 38 Studios Achilles' Heel: "38 Studios had a concept they couldn't deliver on... It was too big of a scope. It was too much. It just went broader and never narrowed. They never even came close to the finish line."

In the case of SWTOR, Buttler sees BioWare fumbling where Trion's RIFT has stayed consistently strong: "I don't think [SWTOR's] business model was necessarily the issue, but I think it was content updates, and what to do in the game, and how you can play it without it becoming repetitive."

So what is the key to success for an MMO? "You have to be able to keep people interested," Buttler concluded. "The key about an online game is that it's a live service. If you make it more like a packaged goods game, people will stay about as long as they stay with a packaged goods game."

MassivelyTrion Worlds CEO pinpoints the failings of 38 Studios and Star Wars: The Old Republic originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jun 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbiowareconconquestconventionconvention-coveragecopernicuse3e3-2012eaelectronic-artselectronic-entertainment-expoexpofantasyLars-Buttlerlucasartsproject-copernicuspvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republicthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptortriontrion-worldsWed, 06 Jun 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Curt Schilling posts more images of Copernicus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/curt-schilling-posts-more-images-of-copernicus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/curt-schilling-posts-more-images-of-copernicus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/curt-schilling-posts-more-images-of-copernicus/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Project Copernicus
Despite the state of Rhode Island's best efforts, Curt Schilling is not done with Project Copernicus. Sure, 38 Studios may be gone, but the legacy lives on, this time through a handful of brand-new screenshots posted on Curt Schilling's own Facebook page this morning.

These six shots show the ready-for-primetime artwork that is a big part of why we're even more disappointed in the way things played out. As Schilling describes this set, these are "images from the most magical, breathtaking and awe inspiring world ever created [...] images [he] was 'allowed' to peek at along the way, when the team wanted [them] all to see the magical world [they] were building."

MassivelyCurt Schilling posts more images of Copernicus originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosartworkcopernicuscurt-schillingfacebookproject-copernicusreckoningscreenshotsTue, 29 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Lessons from 38 Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/eve-evolved-lessons-from-38-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/eve-evolved-lessons-from-38-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/eve-evolved-lessons-from-38-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
This week we heard the news that Kingdoms of Amalur developer 38 Studios shut down and let go all 379 full-time staff. It's always a tragedy when good developers are made jobless, especially if the job losses come out of nowhere and hit people who have only recently been hired. 38 Studios was still hiring people shortly before it collapsed, and some of those recent hires were ex-CCP developers who were part of the 20% of staff fired at the end of last year.

The shutdown of 38 Studios is a sobering reminder of the problems in EVE Online's development that led to monoclegate. Both studios were mismanaged, with the jobs of hundreds of developers gambled on the outcome of poorly researched business decisions. EVE Online thankfully survived CCP's failed microtransaction gamble, but 38 Studios' Project Copernicus may never see the light of day.

In this week's EVE Evolved opinion piece, I look into the similar circumstances that forced CCP Games and 38 Studios to fire staff, and draw some lessons from them for which I believe the industry should take heed.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Lessons from 38 Studios

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Lessons from 38 Studios originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosapocryphabusinessccpccp-gamesdominioneveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedfiredgame-developmentincarnaincursionkingdoms-of-amalurkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoninglayoffsmicrotransactionsmonoclemonoclegateopinionproject-copernicussandboxsci-fistudio-closuretyrannisSun, 27 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[R.A. Salvatore: Project Copernicus would 'blow you away']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/r-a-salvatore-project-copernicus-would-blow-you-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/r-a-salvatore-project-copernicus-would-blow-you-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/r-a-salvatore-project-copernicus-would-blow-you-away/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Screenshot -- Project Copernicus
The future isn't looking particularly bright for 38 Studios and its in-development MMO Project Copernicus, but the game's writer, esteemed fantasy author R.A. Salvatore, took to the comments on a post on Daily Kos to tell everyone how great the game would have been.

Salvatore claims that the game is "much further along than is being reported" and that he wishes he could show us some of it (though sadly, he cannot). He goes on to state that the developers behind Copernicus were "an amazing team of [developers]... pushing the envelope in their respective fields" and that "the environments, the animations, and the game-play would blow you away." Unfortunately, it's looking like we'll never get to judge the veracity of Salvatore's words for ourselves, but the statements do help to shed a bit of light on what might have been.

MassivelyR.A. Salvatore: Project Copernicus would 'blow you away' originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscopernicusindustrymmo-industryproject-copernicusra-salvatoreFri, 25 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios lays off entire staff, sells Big Huge Games [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/rumor-38-studios-lays-off-entire-staff-sells-big-huge-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/rumor-38-studios-lays-off-entire-staff-sells-big-huge-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/rumor-38-studios-lays-off-entire-staff-sells-big-huge-games/#commentsFiled under: , ,

38 Studios / Big Huge Games
The 38 Studios disaster continues to unfold today, as the troubled studio laid off its entire staff and may be selling off its Big Huge Games division in Boston. Boston's Fox 25 News speculates that the studio may close by this weekend.

38 Studios CM Charles Dane confirmed being laid off on Twitter: "Now on the market. I had an awesome run with 38 Studios, but this dream is now ending."

Word is that the company is also selling its subsidiary, Big Huge Games. Big Huge Games is the maker of Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, 38 Studios' single-player prequel to its Copernicus MMO. This would not be the first time that Big Huge Games was sold by its parent company, as the studio experienced the same event back in 2009.

Oh his Facebook page, Curt Schilling stressed that Reckoning did quite well in sales. "I wanted to clear up some misinformation around 38 Studios' first product, Reckoning. Sales of Reckoning outperformed EA's expectations and sold more than 1.2 million units in the game's first 90 days in the market."

[Update]: Developer Ryan Shwayder has also confirmed the layoffs via his personal blog.

Massively38 Studios lays off entire staff, sells Big Huge Games [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbig-huge-gamesblack-thursdaycharles-danecloseclosurecopernicuscurt-schillingeafinancialkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoninglayoffslegalproject-copernicusreckoningsoldThu, 24 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Project Copernicus 'racial' screens leak from 38 Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/fan-site-leaks-project-copernicus-racial-screens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/fan-site-leaks-project-copernicus-racial-screens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/fan-site-leaks-project-copernicus-racial-screens/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Copernicus
While 38 Studios remains in dire straits, fans are getting a bittersweet treat of Project Copernicus reveals. It's sweet because we've been dying to see more information on this game, but bitter because its fate is still up in the air.

Today fan site 38 Watch posted a trio of official-looking screens straight from Copernicus' world. In the screens, three races are revealed: the human-looking Almain, the dwarven Dverga, and the orcish Jottun. The game's art style and lush color palette are on full display, opting for more of a stylized than realistic approach.

We recently heard that Project Copernicus has a possible June 2013 launch window and got our first look at the game in a flyby video. You can scope out the new screens in the gallery below.

Gallery: Project Copernicus

MassivelyProject Copernicus 'racial' screens leak from 38 Studios originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studios38-watchAlmainamalurcopernicusDvergafantasygalleryJottunleakleaked-screenshotsleaksproject-copernicusracialracial-revealscreeniesscreensscreenshotsThu, 24 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios appears to be getting no new help]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-appears-to-be-getting-no-new-help/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-appears-to-be-getting-no-new-help/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-appears-to-be-getting-no-new-help/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Curt Schilling
The bad news continues to accumulate for Rhode Island developer 38 Studios. According to Rhode Island governor Lincoln Chafee, the company has received a grand total of no outside investment. It also has not received any of the tax credits that it requested, leaving the studio still deep in the hole. Chafee has stated that he is doing everything in his power to prevent the studio's closure.

Staff members are also leaving the company at an alarming rate, with CEO Jen MacLean and senior VP of product development John Blakely both confirming their departures from the company. The hiring of both individuals was trumpeted as a mark of success as recently as March of this year, and Blakely was still employed by 38 Studios as recently as Monday evening. There's even talk of the company's health insurance running out. None of this news suggests that Curt Schilling's company will make a quick turnaround -- if indeed it makes a turnaround at all.

Massively38 Studios appears to be getting no new help originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingfinancefinancesindustryindustry-turnoverjen-macleanjohn-blakelylayoffslegalmmo-industrynewspotential-shutdownproject-copernicusupdatesWed, 23 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 202: Rubbernecking at the scene of an MMO accident]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/massively-speaking-episode-202-rubbernecking-at-the-scene-of-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/massively-speaking-episode-202-rubbernecking-at-the-scene-of-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/massively-speaking-episode-202-rubbernecking-at-the-scene-of-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Elder Scrolls Online
Massively Speaking Episode 202 is hot at the scene of the 38 Studios disaster, and without hyperbole we can say that this is more tragic than Pompeii, the Titanic, and Showgirls combined. Will Curt Schilling's dream team survive this financial crisis? We brought expert analyst Eliot Lefebvre on the podcast to give us his opinion.

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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 202: Rubbernecking at the scene of an MMO accident

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 202: Rubbernecking at the scene of an MMO accident originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosaction-rpganetarenanetbattlenetbethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrantbrianna-roycecash-shopcopernicuscurt-schillingd3daggerfalldiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiielder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlinef2pfamilyfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgothic-fantasyguild-wars-2gw2humorjustin-olivettikid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmassively-speakingmorrowindmultiplayerncsoftobliviononline-multiplayeropinionpirate101please-dont-suckpodcastpodcastingpodcastsproject-copernicuspvproguelikerpgsandboxskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpwizard101zenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosTue, 22 May 2012 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 202Massively.com Staff01:04:42podcasts<![CDATA[Layoffs confirmed for 38 Studios, Rhode Island takes no action]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/layoffs-confirmed-for-38-studios-rhode-island-takes-no-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/layoffs-confirmed-for-38-studios-rhode-island-takes-no-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/layoffs-confirmed-for-38-studios-rhode-island-takes-no-action/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Schilling with reporters
If last week's Project Copernicus flythrough had been a hopeful note, the latest news out of 38 Studios is another downturn. Following a meeting today, the Rhode Island EDC board decided to take no action to help the ailing company at this time. Governor Lincoln Chafee said following the meeting that the financial situation of the studio remains unchanged from last week, but did note that the company has seen some layoffs and underwent unspecified internal shifts.

Founder Curt Schilling did not directly respond to press inquiries, stating that he would answer questions when he is able to do so. He did, however, state that he was not taking further taxpayer money. Whether or not there will be a company there to take any money in the near future is still very much in doubt, however, and while Chafee has been a bit more diplomatic about aiding the studio, he has stressed that any assistance would be far on the conservative side.

MassivelyLayoffs confirmed for 38 Studios, Rhode Island takes no action originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbusinesscurt-schillingfinancesfinancialfinancial-troubleslayofflayoffsmmo-industrynewsproject-copernicusrhode-islandstate-of-rhode-islandMon, 21 May 2012 22:30:00 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[38 Studios' Project Copernicus to release in June 2013, says RI governor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/38-studios-project-copernicus-to-release-in-june-2013-says-ri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/38-studios-project-copernicus-to-release-in-june-2013-says-ri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/38-studios-project-copernicus-to-release-in-june-2013-says-ri/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

38 Studios' Curt Schilling
It is not every day that a U.S. governor is the one to announce the launch window for an MMO, so savor the weirdness while you can: Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee announced at a press conference that 38 Studios will be releasing code-name Project Copernicus next summer. "What I understand is Copernicus is June of '13," Chafee said. He also stated that he thought the financial deal was a "risky enterprise" from the start.

38 Studios Founder and Chairman Curt Schilling said on Facebook that rumors of his using the state funds to repay his personal investment in the company was "not true." In a separate post, Schilling attempted to set an optimistic tone: "We will find a way, and the strength, to endure."

We have been following the financial turmoil that 38 Studios is in following its default on paying back Rhode Island for its $75 million loan. The studio and state are looking for options, but in the meanwhile, 38 Studios has been struggling to make payments by holding back employee paychecks and seeking additional capital from private investors.

Massively38 Studios' Project Copernicus to release in June 2013, says RI governor originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbusinesscurt-schillingfacebookfinanceindustrykingdoms-of-amalurkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoninglaunchlaunch-windowlegalLincoln-Chafeeloanmmo-industrypress-conferenceproject-copernicusreleaserelease-windowrepaymentrhode-islandrumorrumorsFri, 18 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios paying state back by not paying employees]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/38-studios-paying-state-back-by-not-paying-employees/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/38-studios-paying-state-back-by-not-paying-employees/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/38-studios-paying-state-back-by-not-paying-employees/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Schilling getting a tattoo
If you're familiar with the phrase "robbing Peter to pay Paul," you'll understand the latest episode in the ongoing 38 Studios financial crisis. Except replace "Paul" with "the state of Rhode Island" and "Peter" with "the company's employees." Yes, in order to make the most recent payment to the state that sparked this whole crisis, the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation has been informed that Curt Schilling's company is paying the state but not paying any of the company's employees. According to anonymous sources, all temporary employees and contractors have also been terminated.

While this measure might help forestall immediate action, the company is still on the hook for a $75 million loan, and Rhode Island governor Lincoln Chafee has made it clear that the company is looking for more assistance from the state in order to remain viable. 38 Studios continues to make no public statements at this time. We'll no doubt have more on this story in the coming days as it continues to develop.

Massively38 Studios paying state back by not paying employees originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbusinesscurt-schillingfinanceindustrykingdoms-of-amalurkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoninglegalloanmmo-industryproject-copernicusrepaymentrhode-islandThu, 17 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No relief in sight for 38 Studios after emergency meeting [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/no-relief-in-sight-for-38-studios-after-emergency-meeting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/no-relief-in-sight-for-38-studios-after-emergency-meeting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/no-relief-in-sight-for-38-studios-after-emergency-meeting/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Gov Lincoln
Generally, when your company defaults on a major loan, you might expect an emergency meeting about the loan and the company's future would produce some results. But apparently today's meeting between 38 Studios owner Curt Schilling and Rhode Island governor Lincoln Chafee resulted in... absolutely nothing. Specifically, Rhode Island's Economic Development Corporation will take no immediate action to prevent the studio from going under, with Chafee on record as asking, "How do we avoid throwing good money after bad?"

It's a loaded question if you consider that the failure of 38 Studios would put the state's taxpayers on the hook for more than $112 million. Schilling has declined to elaborate on the company's state in interviews, and he has not made public how much more funding the company is seeking. It's bad news for the studio, bad news for the state, and bad news for any fans still looking forward to the possibility of Project Copernicus in the future.

[Update: Joystiq reports that "it appears 38 Studios put up all present and future IP by the company as collateral," meaning that if the studio defaults, the state of Rhode Island will own all of its game assets. We've tucked some of the ensuing news coverage in the video behind the break.]

Continue reading No relief in sight for 38 Studios after emergency meeting [Updated]

MassivelyNo relief in sight for 38 Studios after emergency meeting [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbusinessbusiness-updatescurt-schillingfinancefinancesindustrylegalloansmmo-industrymoneyproject-copernicusWed, 16 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[If 38 Studios goes under, Rhode Island taxpayers will be footing the bill [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/if-38-studios-goes-under-rhode-island-taxpayers-will-be-footing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/if-38-studios-goes-under-rhode-island-taxpayers-will-be-footing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/if-38-studios-goes-under-rhode-island-taxpayers-will-be-footing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Who doesn't love a good bar graph?
Project Copernicus and Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning developer 38 Studios is in some hot water, but it looks like that may be the least of your worries if you're a Rhode Island resident. Rhode Island's WPRI reports that if the studio founders and can't pay back the bonds given to it by the state, then the onus of doing so will fall upon Rhode Island taxpayers.

How much moolah are we talking about? Something to the tune of $112.6 million US. According to Joystiq, "If 38 Studios can't pay, the governor is required to ask the General Assembly to repay bondholders," which means that Rhode Island taxpayers will be responsible for footing the bill by 2020. For now, though, both the studio and the Rhode Island government are tight-lipped on the studio's future, and by association, the future of Project Copernicus, so we'll just have to wait and see how this plays out.

[Update: Our sister site Joystiq reports that 38 Studios "missed its latest loan payment of $1.125 million to the state of Rhode Island on May 1, effectively defaulting [on] its $75 million loan." Rhode Island's Economic Development Corporation will hold an emergency meeting tomorrow morning to discuss the situation.]

MassivelyIf 38 Studios goes under, Rhode Island taxpayers will be footing the bill [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscopernicuseconomyfinancefinancesgames-industryindustrykingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningmmo-industryproject-copernicusTue, 15 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 193: Happytime face smiles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/massively-speaking-episode-193-happytime-face-smiles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/massively-speaking-episode-193-happytime-face-smiles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/massively-speaking-episode-193-happytime-face-smiles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking
Massively Speaking Episode 193 asks this question: If we had $25 million to spend on an MMO, how sarcastic would we make its quests? And would there be a special skill called "Fire One Shots!"? And would your character die if he or she were downvoted in a group raid? And would we ever look as happy as the guy in the picture above?

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Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 193: Happytime face smiles

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 193: Happytime face smiles originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosaction-rpgactivisionamalurbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrantbrianna-roycecash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiieqeq1everquestf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgaikaigothic-fantasyhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmists-of-pandariamultiplayeronline-multiplayeropinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastsproject-copernicusroguelikerpgsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttodd-mcfarlanewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 20 Mar 2012 14:30:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 193Massively.com Staff01:06:26podcasts