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[AdventureQuest Worlds releases its first two action figures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/adventurequest-worlds-releases-its-first-two-action-figures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/adventurequest-worlds-releases-its-first-two-action-figures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/adventurequest-worlds-releases-its-first-two-action-figures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Figures sold separately.
Action figures are a great accessory for any video game. Sure, most of us have passed the point when we would use them to stage elaborate battles in the backyard, but it's nice to have something on hand to play with during load times. That's part of the reason that AdventureQuest Worlds is getting into the market with its first two figures, representing Artix and Sepulchure, available in Toys'R'Us stores nationwide starting on May 23rd.

Even if you're not normally the sort to buy action figures, Artix Entertainment has sweetened the deal by making sure that each figure comes with a special in-game house, special armor and weapons, and five playing cards for the game's tie-in card game. If you don't want to wait for them in stores, you can also purchase them directly from the company's online store starting May 18th. The team put together a small stop-motion animation piece as well to celebrate the upcoming figures because honestly, if you've spent this much time thinking about buying an action figure, don't you deserve a toy commercial to cap it off?

[Source: Artix Entertainment press release]

Continue reading AdventureQuest Worlds releases its first two action figures

MassivelyAdventureQuest Worlds releases its first two action figures originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-figuresadventurequestadventurequest-worldsartix-entertainmentcross-promotionsculturef2pfiguresfree-to-playmerchandisenewspromotionstrailertrailersupcoming-releasesvideovideosWed, 16 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes announces Paragon Market Freebie Fridays]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/city-of-heroes-announces-paragon-market-freebie-fridays/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/city-of-heroes-announces-paragon-market-freebie-fridays/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/city-of-heroes-announces-paragon-market-freebie-fridays/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

City of Heroes Freebie Fridays
Everyone loves free things, and the folks at Paragon Studios know it. That's why the studio has announced a new treat for City of Heroes players: Paragon Market Freebie Fridays. The program is exactly as it sounds: Every week, the studio will choose a new item to be that week's freebie. Players then simply have to log on during the specified time frame, claim their free items, and enjoy! That's all there is to it, folks.

The premiere Freebie Friday will be taking place this week, beginning on Thursday at 7:00 p.m. EDT and ending at the same time Friday, giving players 24 hours to claim their free stuff. The announcement states that the freebies "could be almost anything currently available in the Paragon Market," so be sure to log in each week and get your goodies!

MassivelyCity of Heroes announces Paragon Market Freebie Fridays originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxf2pfree-to-playfreebie-fridaysfreebiesfreedomncsoftparagonparagon-marketparagon-studiospromotionpromotionssuperherosuperheroesWed, 09 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Raptr rewards gamers for playing with discounts, beta keys, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/raptr-rewards-gamers-for-playing-with-discounts-beta-keys-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/raptr-rewards-gamers-for-playing-with-discounts-beta-keys-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/raptr-rewards-gamers-for-playing-with-discounts-beta-keys-and/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Raptr logo
Do you wanna earn fabulous prizes just for playing your favorite games? Of course you do. Well, you're in luck because Raptr has just announced its new Raptr Rewards program, which is "a program to reward active gamers with real rewards just for playing their favorite games." The program is "on track to offer over 350,000 rewards totaling $1.3 million [US] in value just in the first month of launch."

The prizes that are available for dedicated players are myriad, ranging from discounts on Gunnar brand gaming eyewear to beta access for Ghost Recon: Future Soldier and much more. The full details of the available rewards and how to earn them can be found on the official Raptr site, so go check it out, then start playing for your prizes.

[Source: Raptr press release]

MassivelyRaptr rewards gamers for playing with discounts, beta keys, and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cultureindustrymiscmiscellaneouspromotionpromotionsraptrraptr-rewardsTue, 08 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA Europe offers bonus items and skins to prepurchase customers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/tera-europe-offers-bonus-items-and-skins-to-prepurchase-customer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/tera-europe-offers-bonus-items-and-skins-to-prepurchase-customer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/tera-europe-offers-bonus-items-and-skins-to-prepurchase-customer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

TERA EU Legendary Legacy items
What with all the hullabaloo about TERA Europe's sex-and-violence-reducing changes to the game, some European players have professed to having second thoughts about whether or not to actually purchase the action-focused title. Frogster, the game's European publisher, announced today a new promotion for players who have purchased (or plan to purchase prior to launch) the European version of TERA.

To get in on the promotion, players must have purchased the full version of TERA (not the mini pre-order version, which can be upgraded to the full or collector's edition) prior to the game's May 2nd launch. Any players who fall into that category will be rewarded with the Legendary Legacy item package, which includes an exclusive weapon skin for each class, plus three accessories: a pirate eye-patch, a pirate face-mask, and... a pair of horn-rimmed glasses? What is this, sexy pirate librarian cosplay? At any rate, for the full details, head on over and check out the official post at the TERA EU official site.

MassivelyTERA Europe offers bonus items and skins to prepurchase customers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiosen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteueuropeeuropeanfantasylegendary-legacypromotionpromotionssexy-pirate-librarianskinsteratera-eutera-europeweapon-skinsMon, 30 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms throws itself a nice big birthday bash]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/free-realms-throws-itself-a-nice-big-birthday-bash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/free-realms-throws-itself-a-nice-big-birthday-bash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/free-realms-throws-itself-a-nice-big-birthday-bash/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

This is useful for times when you're tempted to say that you'll eat your hat.
MMO birthdays are the best celebrations. Instead of getting your favorite game a lot of presents to celebrate its age, most games give the players presents. So it is in Free Realms, which celebrates its third year of operation today with a number of events and rewards for players. The most basic rewards don't require any real effort on the part of players; just logging in today nets you a Birthday Cake hat, and you can enjoy triple Station Cash for the rest of the day.

There's more to the party, however: The game's offering a number of daily quests to help Queen Valerian produce the best birthday party ever. There's also the dread monster Cakenstein, a beast assembled from... well, you can probably guess from the name. The extended events will be running until May 24th, but the Station Cash promotion and the hat are only for today. So if you're a fan of Free Realms, log in and start enjoying the festivities today!

MassivelyFree Realms throws itself a nice big birthday bash originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-eventbrowserbrowser-basedconsoleconsolesf2pfrfree-realmsfree-to-playin-game-eventkid-friendlykidskids-mmoplaystation-3playstation3promotionsps3soesonysony-online-entertainmentSat, 28 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Realms Online introduces the Lamai]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/realms-online-introduces-the-lamai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/realms-online-introduces-the-lamai/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/realms-online-introduces-the-lamai/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

They make their home in a valley. It's almost uncanny.
Adding a new race to a factional PvP game is always a dicey proposition with regard to faction balance, but Realms Online is taking a measured approach with its newest race. The diminutive Lamai have just been added, and they aren't beholden to any single faction -- they can join any realm and play as any class. That flexibility is meant to reflect their nature as an ancient race that left the planet ages ago.

Of course, there's also the problem that if you're enticed by the new race, you'll have to start all over from the first level. As a promotion to help players interested in playing a Lamai, GameSamba is offering a sale on experience boosts in the game's shop. It's 25% off of level 30 scrolls, and 10 XP boosters for the price of eight. Not a bad deal if you want to level a new character, whether it's a lamai or something else.

[Source: GameSamba press release]

MassivelyRealms Online introduces the Lamai originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfactionsfree-to-playgamesambanew-racespromotionspvpraceracesrealms-onlinesalesThu, 26 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeons & Dragons Online invites players to build a guild]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/dungeons-and-dragons-online-invites-players-to-build-a-guild/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/dungeons-and-dragons-online-invites-players-to-build-a-guild/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/dungeons-and-dragons-online-invites-players-to-build-a-guild/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fight the Drow, fight random strangers in a bar. Either one.
If you're going to take on the Drow in Dungeons & Dragons Online, you're going to need help. You'll need allies, people you can count on no matter what. In other words, you need a guild. That means recruiting some good players -- and the new Build Your Guild event is aimed at giving players incentives for just that. Running until late June, the event offers players two different ways to gain fantastic advantages just by being in a guild.

All players can gain extra experience and loot by grouping with fellow guild members, whether you're a new player or an old hand. You can also gain special bounties for reaching leveling milestones, which grants bonus guild renown and astral diamonds. Last but not least, guilds will randomly be rewarded a variety of prizes during the length of the event, culminating with a level 85 airship in late June. The event should provide plenty of incentive for players to work together in a guild, and if you happen to get some prizes along the way, so much the better.

MassivelyDungeons & Dragons Online invites players to build a guild originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>build-your-guildddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playguildguildsin-game-eventsnewpromotionsturbineturbine-entertainmentThu, 19 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP still planning to expand EVE's station gameplay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/ccp-still-planning-to-expand-eves-station-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/ccp-still-planning-to-expand-eves-station-gameplay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/ccp-still-planning-to-expand-eves-station-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Rifter viewed from captain's quarters
Just when you internet-spaceship-only types thought it was safe to resume your relationship with CCP, the EVE Online studio has dropped a dev blog detailing its plans for further Incarna-style avatar development.

The recent CCP reorganization put bidpedal gameplay on the back burner due to a player outcry in favor of the game's flying-in-space elements, but as it turns out, CCP "still believes in the vision to bring your characters fully into the world of EVE." CCP t0rfifrans says it will simply take a bit longer for the firm to realize its ambitious sandbox goals. He also says those goals are currently up for debate, and while gambling minigames, corporation-owned hubs, and contraband trading haven't been ruled out entirely, Team Avatar has gone "back to the drawing board" in the interests of identifying rewarding gameplay and developing a prototype.

In other New Eden news, CCP's Power of 2 promotion is making a return engagement, and you can create a second account at a discount price through April 1st.

[Thanks to Kane Hart for the tip!]

MassivelyCCP still planning to expand EVE's station gameplay originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarsccpccp-gamesccp-t0rfifransdev-blogdev-diaryeveeve-onlineflying-in-spacehtfuincarnainternet-spaceshipsnew-edenpower-of-2promotionssandboxsci-fiteam-avatarwalking-in-stationsThu, 23 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Webzen giving away fully geared high-level characters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/webzen-giving-away-fully-geared-high-level-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/webzen-giving-away-fully-geared-high-level-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/webzen-giving-away-fully-geared-high-level-characters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Webzen - free characters promotion
Have you ever played an MMORPG and thought, wow, this would be fantastic if I could ditch the pesky progression?

If so, Webzen has a promotion for you. It's called Skip the Low, Jump to High, and it kicks off today and runs through March 14th. The company is giving away free high-level characters and items in ArchLord, Soul of the Ultimate Nation, and MU Online. ArchLord players will receive level-60 characters that are fully geared, while S.U.N. fans can look forward to level-90 toons with gear and level-up boxes. Last but not least, MU players will get level-220 characters and +9 weapons and armor.

But wait, there's more! MU is offering double XP during the promotion period, and S.U.N. is bringing a new server online.

[Source: Webzen press release]

MassivelyWebzen giving away fully geared high-level characters originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordf2pfantasyfree-fully-geared-charactersfree-high-level-charactersfree-to-playgrindmumu-onlineprogressionpromotionsskip-the-low-jump-to-highsoul-of-the-ultimate-nationsunwebzenWed, 15 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How frugal are you in F2P games?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/the-daily-grind-how-frugal-are-you-in-f2p-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/the-daily-grind-how-frugal-are-you-in-f2p-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/the-daily-grind-how-frugal-are-you-in-f2p-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Daily Grind
Those of you who shun free-to-play titles or are determined to never spend a single red cent in them are dismissed from today's discussion. But for those of you who do spend money in F2P MMOs -- and by all accounts, that's quite a few of you out there -- I'm curious just how frugal you are with the money you spend.

I know that SOE players often hold back from registering Station Cash cards until the studio does a double- or triple-point day, and Turbine's frequently put its in-game stock on sale for both Lord of the Rings Online and Dungeons and Dragons Online. Around the holidays or during special anniversaries, players can also snag some good deals.

So do you wait for certain items and unlocks to go on sale, or are you wealthy and/or impatient enough to simply go for it when you want them? Do you look for specials with an eagle eye? Jump on top of bonus in-game currency days? Clip coupons? Just how far do you stretch your gaming dollar?

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: How frugal are you in F2P games? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clip-couponscouponcouponsddodealdealsdiscussiondungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfree-to-playfrugalfrugaliciousfrugalitylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionpromotionssalesalessoesony-online-entertainmentspecialspecialsstation-cashtdgthe-daily-grindturbineturbine-entertainmentWed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT offers cheap client, lots of bonus XP for Christmas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/rift-offers-cheap-client-lots-of-bonus-xp-for-christmas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/rift-offers-cheap-client-lots-of-bonus-xp-for-christmas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/rift-offers-cheap-client-lots-of-bonus-xp-for-christmas/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RIFT - death plane
What does Christmas look like in Telara? There's probably snow, and elves, and according to the latest Trion news blurb, there are lots of presents too. First of all, the RIFT client is available for a paltry $4.99 starting tomorrow. And of course there's plenty of "cheer, joy, charity, and battling a never-ending stream of extra-dimensional monsters bent on undoing reality."

To help you in your quest to save the world from demons and bad Christmas music, Trion is running a pretty spiffy promotion from December 22nd through January 2nd. RIFT subscribers will enjoy 15% bonuses on kill XP, favor, prestige, plaques of achievement, marks of ascension, and planarite throughout the holidays, and you can learn more about the game at its official website.

[Source: Trion press release]

MassivelyRIFT offers cheap client, lots of bonus XP for Christmas originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpchristmas-promotionsdiscountspromotionsrifttelaratriontrion-worldsWed, 21 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a life-size Cylon statue from Bigpoint and Battlestar Galactica Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/win-a-life-size-cylon-statue-from-bigpoint-and-battlestar-galact/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/win-a-life-size-cylon-statue-from-bigpoint-and-battlestar-galact/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/win-a-life-size-cylon-statue-from-bigpoint-and-battlestar-galact/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Battlestar Galactica Online - life-sized Cylon statueBigpoint's in the news again this week, and for once the company is steering clear of microtransaction controversies. It seems as if there's a giveaway afoot, and Battlestar Galactica Online fans will be pleased to note that they have a chance to win a life-size Cylon statue (settle down guys, it's a Centurion, not a Number Six).

The browser-based sci-fi MMO also features 15 new paint jobs for Cylon and Colonial ships, each of which may be purchased with real money or in-game credits.

Bigpoint says more color schemes are on the way, and oh yeah, if you want a chance at the statue, you'll need to log in at least five times during the month of December. Head to the official BSGO forums for the official contest rules.

MassivelyWin a life-size Cylon statue from Bigpoint and Battlestar Galactica Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbsgbsgoby-your-commandcylon-statuecylonsf2pfree-to-playgiveawayslife-size-cylon-statuepaint-jobspromotionssci-fishipsThu, 08 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rosh Online launches, gifts players with lots of presents]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/rosh-online-launches-gifts-players-with-lots-of-presents/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/rosh-online-launches-gifts-players-with-lots-of-presents/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/rosh-online-launches-gifts-players-with-lots-of-presents/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Rosh Online - siege battle
Launch day for Rosh Online is here, and the new free-to-play title is now officially live. Ignited Games has also added a few extra features that were absent from the recent beta test. Players can now take part in siege war and mining war PvP, and a wide variety of new pets and weapon enchantment stones are available for purchase in the cash shop.

Ignited is also running a couple of special launch events. First up is the Nobody is a Rookie promotion, which includes a gift box full of items to ease the newbie transition. That's not all, as players will also receive another gift box containing level 19 gear. There's also the Blue Box Red Box promotion, and it entails holiday gift boxes filled with rare items.

Rosh Online: The Return of Karos is a fantasy title set in the world of Asmara, which features a traditional XP-based leveling system, a PvP morality system, and large-scale guild and castle sieges.

[Source: Ignited press release]

MassivelyRosh Online launches, gifts players with lots of presents originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playgift-boxesignited-gameslaunch-daylaunchespromotionsroshrosh-onlinerosh-online-the-return-of-karosWed, 07 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes aims at accessorizing with the new Gunslinger Set]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/city-of-heroes-aims-at-accessorizing-with-the-new-gunslinger-set/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/city-of-heroes-aims-at-accessorizing-with-the-new-gunslinger-set/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/city-of-heroes-aims-at-accessorizing-with-the-new-gunslinger-set/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I do not aim with my AoEs. A man who aims with an AoE has forgotten the face of his father.
Do you find yourself frequently dealing in lead in City of Heroes? Then perhaps your hero could use the accoutrements to match his or her habit of solving every problem with gunplay. The Gunslinger Set is a new featured item in the market, and it brings with it the usual assortment of costume pieces for making your perfect Western-themed hero, including a fine selection of new firearms for any would-be gunslinger looking to snipe at some criminals.

The whole package is available for 400 points in the store, but if you'd rather buy items piecemeal the option remains as always. And if you've mostly been kept away from the game's subscription fee by the lack of proper gunslinging attire, you'll be happy to know that the game is also offering players a special subscription deal through the end of December, giving players extra VIP subscription time when purchasing a membership for six months or a year at a time.

MassivelyCity of Heroes aims at accessorizing with the new Gunslinger Set originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-heroes-freedomcity-of-villainscohcostume-piecescostumescovcoxdealsf2pfree-to-playncsoftnew-costumesparagonparagon-marketparagon-studiospromotionssub-feessubscriptionTue, 29 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Friday deal for EVE players: 50% off EON Magazine and ISK Guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/black-friday-deal-for-eve-players-50-off-eon-magazine-and-isk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/black-friday-deal-for-eve-players-50-off-eon-magazine-and-isk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/black-friday-deal-for-eve-players-50-off-eon-magazine-and-isk/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

ISK guide title image
Black Friday is upon us, bringing us countless offers on everything from online games to toasters. MMM Publishing announced an enticing offer today of 50% off issues of EON Magazine, the official magazine of EVE Online. The offer also extends to MMM's other EVE publications: The ISK guide, EVE Strategic Maps and a poster pack. These are all paper-based products that will have to be sent via post, and unfortunately the price reduction doesn't extend to postage. For details on how to get in on this deal, head over to the official EON blog.

EON is published quarterly and has recently reaching its 25th issue. The magazine has a professional quality to it, and interestingly the only advertisements you'll see in it are for in-game EVE Online corporations and services. The Industrial Sized Knowledgebase is a professionally laid out print copy of the most comprehensive guide to EVE ever released. A basic version is available for free as a PDF, and the purchased product is an extended reproduction delivered as a colossal ring-bound reference manual. EVE Strategic Maps is an accurate map of New Eden ready to be filled with post-it notes on big finds, wars and travel routes.

MassivelyBlack Friday deal for EVE players: 50% off EON Magazine and ISK Guide originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-fridayccpccp-eveccp-gamesdealeoneon-magazineeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineguideguidesindustrial-sized-knowledgebaseiskmmm-publishingofferpromotionsFri, 25 Nov 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's big fat Black Friday roundup: 2011 edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/massivelys-big-fat-black-friday-roundup-2011-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/massivelys-big-fat-black-friday-roundup-2011-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/massivelys-big-fat-black-friday-roundup-2011-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Black Friday - shoppers in the most horrific checkout line ever
So apparently there's this thing called Black Friday. This is news to me because shopping isn't really my thing, see, especially if it involves looking for parking spaces, Christmas music, or entering a retail establishment of any sort (regardless of season). OK, I do occasionally make allowances for the grocery store.

Anyway, when it comes to holiday consumerism, fortunately there's this place called the intarwebs, where savvy merchants have taken to selling all manner of whatever and delivering it directly to your front door with the bare minimum of fuss. I hear there are even a few deals and steals for the budget-conscious MMO fiend in this land of digital plenty, and you should head past the break for links to a few of the more noteworthy sales.

Continue reading Massively's big fat Black Friday roundup: 2011 edition

MassivelyMassively's big fat Black Friday roundup: 2011 edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big-fat-black-friday-roundupblack-fridayblack-friday-2011consumerismdealsfeaturedholidaysholidays-2011mmo-black-fridaymmo-dealspromotionsroundupspecialsstealsthanksgivingthanksgiving-2011Thu, 24 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Double XP weekends coming soon to an Aion server near you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/double-xp-weekends-coming-soon-to-an-aion-server-near-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/double-xp-weekends-coming-soon-to-an-aion-server-near-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/double-xp-weekends-coming-soon-to-an-aion-server-near-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aion - that's a big turkey
It's a good time to be an Aion fan, what with the recently released 2.7 update adding some new content to the world of Atreia and the buzz surrounding the forthcoming 3.0 patch building day by day. It's also a good time to return to Aion if you've been away for a while, as NCsoft is throwing a gaggle of bonuses your way over the next few weeks.

Every weekend from now through December 6th, you'll enjoy double gathering, crafting, and slaying XP. There are also time-played bonuses that reward arena tickets, enchantment stone boxes, and manastone boxes in two-, four-, and six-hour increments each day. Finally, the Daru Days festival starts on November 23rd, and daevas who are willing to complete the Daru quest series will receive a Silver Fur Daru clothing set for their trouble. Head past the cut to see NCsoft's new Aion promotional video (if you dare!).

[Source: NCsoft press release]

Continue reading Double XP weekends coming soon to an Aion server near you

MassivelyDouble XP weekends coming soon to an Aion server near you originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionatreiacraftingdarudaru-daysdouble-xpdouble-xp-weekendsfantasygatheringncsoftpromotionsvideoThu, 17 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE offering bonuses to new players [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/eve-offering-bonuses-to-new-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/eve-offering-bonuses-to-new-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/eve-offering-bonuses-to-new-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online - Apotheosis frigate
There's no better time to take the plunge with EVE Online, as CCP is offering up a new promotion designed to ease the newbie transition into the harsh realm of New Eden. According to a news blurb on the official EVE website, new accounts will receive free cerebral accelerator implants.

These doohickeys "are military-grade implants that significantly increase a new pilot's skill development [...] Capsuleer training renders it ineffective after a while; as such, it will cease to function for pilots who have been registered for more than 35 days," according to the website.

Pilots will also receive a rare frigate (an Apotheosis) if they can manage to invite a friend via EVE's buddy program and convince said friend to upgrade to a paid account.

[Update: CCP has also announced that its Power of 2 special offer is back (through November 28th). Existing players can create an alt account and get 180 days of free game time or three PLEX, for $49.95. Additionally, your character on the new account will receive a cerebral accelerator.]

MassivelyEVE offering bonuses to new players [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apotheosis-shipbuddy-programccpccp-gamescerebral-acceleratoreveeve-onlinenew-edennew-pilotspromotionssandboxsci-fiFri, 28 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[KingsIsle teasing new Wizard101 content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/kingsisle-teasing-new-wizard101-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/kingsisle-teasing-new-wizard101-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/kingsisle-teasing-new-wizard101-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Our friends at KingsIsle Entertainment have tipped us off to an exciting bit of news regarding Wizard101. Unfortunately we don't know quite what that news is just yet. Why the posting then? Well, that's where you lot come in.

Take a look at the image above and put on your thinking caps. KingsIsle let slip the fact that this picture is the first in a series of three to be released over the next week or so, and there's some sort of message hidden in each image. As we understand it, all three will be needed to decipher the full message, which ultimately has something to do with some "mysterious upcoming new content."

[Source: KingsIsle press release]

MassivelyKingsIsle teasing new Wizard101 content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkidskingsislekingsisle-entertainmentprpress-releasepromotionswizard-101wizard101Fri, 21 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eligium using Facebook to start the beta push]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/eligium-using-facebook-to-start-the-beta-push/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/eligium-using-facebook-to-start-the-beta-push/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/eligium-using-facebook-to-start-the-beta-push/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Perhaps the game is based around green-skinned women posing with monsters?
Earlier this year, Frogster announced its upcoming new MMO, Eligium - The Chosen One. But before you can test yourself in the game to see if you are in fact the figure of destiny referred to in the title, there's a much more functional test that has to take place. Specifically, the beta test. Yes, the official site has opened up registration with the alluring call of securing your beta access.

To help drum up the game on social media, the game's Facebook page is the nexus of the beta push; players who choose to Like the game and comment spurring more beta invitations being sent out. Of course, you can't get invited if you don't register, can you? While the solid details on the gameplay are still a bit sketchy, if you'd like to see what the developer of Runes of Magic is working on this time, you should probably head over to Facebook and start commenting.

[Thanks to Piaskowy for the tip!]

MassivelyEligium using Facebook to start the beta push originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-accessbeta-keysbeta-promotionsclosed-betaeligiumeligium-the-chosen-herof2pfacebookfree-to-playfrogsternewspromotionsupdatesThu, 13 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II adds dungeon finder, double Station Cash weekend on tap for Europe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - ratonga and tier'dal in Nektropos Castle
Love it or loathe it, the increasingly popular dungeon finder mechanic has finally made its way to Norrath. Today's EverQuest II patch features a variation on the random grouping tool initially made famous in World of Warcraft.

Adventurers can queue solo or as a group by clicking the dungeon finder icon on their EQII menus, and it's worth noting that signing up for a random dungeon will net you a 25% XP boost.

Other patch details worth mentioning include a, ahem, rebalance of the Dirge mythical effect as well as a Troubador revamp. Finally, European EQII fans should be pleased to know that this weekend features a double Station Cash promotion to celebrate the availability of pre-paid SOE game cards at retailers throughout the region.

MassivelyEverQuest II adds dungeon finder, double Station Cash weekend on tap for Europe originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-station-cashdouble-station-cashdungeon-finderdungeonseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgroupingnorrathpatchpromotionsrandom-dungeonsrandom-groupingsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashxp-boostThu, 06 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[S4 League Season 3 looking for design submissions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/s4-league-season-3-looking-for-design-submissions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/s4-league-season-3-looking-for-design-submissions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/s4-league-season-3-looking-for-design-submissions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

S4 League - Anime characters shooting
You say you want player-generated content? You think you're a cut above the average armchair designer? Well, it's time to put your money where your mouth is thanks to a new contest sponsored by alaplaya and its S4 League title.

According to the company's latest press release, S4 will be getting a "major expansion" in 2012, and the kicker is that it could be designed by you! "Players are encouraged to submit any and all ideas" for S4 League: Season 3, and the grand-prize winner will have the honor of seeing her design brought to life and played by thousands of gamers for years to come. Oh, and the design champ will also pocket a cool 100,000 alaplaya points.

There are only a couple of days to go before the October 7th deadline, so head to the official website for all the details.

MassivelyS4 League Season 3 looking for design submissions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alaplayaanime-shooterarmchair-devscontentcontestsdesign-a-seasonf2pfree-to-playplayer-contentpromotionss4-leagues4-league-season-3season-3-design-contestshooterWed, 05 Oct 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Win an Age of Conan lifetime sub in new Funcom sweepstakes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/win-an-age-of-conan-lifetime-sub-in-new-funcom-sweepstakes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/win-an-age-of-conan-lifetime-sub-in-new-funcom-sweepstakes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/win-an-age-of-conan-lifetime-sub-in-new-funcom-sweepstakes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Age of Conan - Barbarian girl contest header
Feeling lucky? If so, you want might want to enter Funcom's new Age of Conan sweepstakes. One grand-prize winner will take home a lifetime premium sub to the fantasy MMORPG along with 6,000 cash shop points and the opportunity to have an in-game NPC named after one of your characters.

Five first-prize winners will grab the ultimate Conan fan pack, which includes an in-game pleasure companion (nope, we're not kidding), 2,500 Funcom points, and three purebred mounts. Finally, second-prize winners will receive 1,000 Funcom points.

The sweepstakes starts today, October 4th, and runs through November 22nd. Check out the details on the Age of Conan Facebook page, and don't forget to take a look at the official contest rules while you're at it.

MassivelyWin an Age of Conan lifetime sub in new Funcom sweepstakes originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocaoc-unchainedcontestf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomfuncom-pointslifetime-sublifetime-subscriptionpleasure-companionpremium-subscriptionprizespromotionspurebred-mountssweepstakesunchainedTue, 04 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Prophecy celebrates World Space Week with bonus events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/black-prophecy-celebrates-world-space-week-with-bonus-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/black-prophecy-celebrates-world-space-week-with-bonus-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/black-prophecy-celebrates-world-space-week-with-bonus-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Black Prophecy - big explosion, hopefully not from World Space Week
Did you know that it's world space week? Yep, it is, and gamigo is leveraging the occasion to hype its free-to-play Black Prophecy MMORPG. A new company press release has the details, and they boil down to a couple of special events both in and around the space shooter.

First up is an XP boost that grants players a 25% increase on both missions and enemy kills. gamigo is also offering an additional 15% extra cash on all cash shop packet purchases.

Also of note is Black Prophecy's first official expansion. Episode 2: Species War is out now, and you can view an official trailer for the new content after the break.

[Source: gamigo press release]

Continue reading Black Prophecy celebrates World Space Week with bonus events

MassivelyBlack Prophecy celebrates World Space Week with bonus events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-prophecybonus-xpcash-shop-bonusepisode-2-species-warsf2pfree-to-playgamigoin-game-eventspromotionsreakktorreakktor-mediasci-fiscifispecies-wartrailervideoworld-space-weekTue, 04 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flyff World Championship offering prizes to players as the tournament continues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/flyff-world-championship-offering-prizes-to-players-as-the-tourn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/flyff-world-championship-offering-prizes-to-players-as-the-tourn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/flyff-world-championship-offering-prizes-to-players-as-the-tourn/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Classing it up for a championship
Think you're a pretty good Flyff player? We hate to be the bearers of bad news, but your opportunity to call yourself among the best is pretty well fading. The first Flyff world championship is currently ongoing, with the sixteen finalists now competing for the opportunity to be crowned the best team of players in the world. Two teams have already been eliminated, with livestreaming coverage of the events available on the official championship channel.

But maybe you don't consider yourself one of the best in the world and don't usually care about these sorts of events. That's all right -- you've still got reason to enjoy it. Players will receive a special item every day just for logging in, as well as another item for every level they gain, from September 28th until October 31st. It's an all-around excellent opportunity for Flyff fans to enjoy the game, whether struggling for the top spot or just leveling for fun.

[Source: Press release]

MassivelyFlyff World Championship offering prizes to players as the tournament continues originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>competitive-gamingeventsf2pflyffflyff-world-championshipfree-to-playgala-netgpotatoin-game-eventpromotionsreal-world-eventMon, 26 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars rolling out the annual Halloween contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/guild-wars-rolling-out-the-annual-halloween-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/guild-wars-rolling-out-the-annual-halloween-contest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/guild-wars-rolling-out-the-annual-halloween-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I CAN HAZ PRE-SEARIN SNUGGLEZ?
We're still a month away from the holiday that invariably fills every game with ghosts and ghouls, but that's no reason not to get started on your Halloween plans. Especially if your plans involve the annual Guild Wars contest, a chance for players to show off their creativity by designing some game-themed art. And this year, one of the prizes includes the small sensation that's sweeping the nation, the Charr plush doll pictured above.

Running until October 13th, the contest calls for players to submit a photo of their work in .JPG format for ease of viewing. This year's prizes are split between the general art category and costumes, with both sides receiving the same lineup of offerings. Win the Grand Prize, First Prize, or Second Prize, and you'll be able to call one of the adorable fiery harbingers of destruction your own. Make sure to take a look at the official rules, and then you should probably buckle down and start working on that Dervish outfit.

MassivelyGuild Wars rolling out the annual Halloween contest originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarena-netarenanetart-contestcharr-plushiecontestscostume-contestguild-warsgwhalloweenhalloween-2011holiday-contestpromotionsreal-world-eventThu, 22 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT veteran rewards coming with 1.5 update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/rift-veteran-rewards-coming-with-1-5-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/rift-veteran-rewards-coming-with-1-5-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/rift-veteran-rewards-coming-with-1-5-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT - Defiant on horseback
It's somewhat wonky to think about veteran rewards for an MMORPG that's barely six months old, but nonetheless Trion is trotting out various incentives to keep players subscribing to RIFT and adventuring through the wilds of Telara with in-game shinies in tow.

Beginning with the game's 1.5 update, "being a veteran Ascended means honor, respect, and awesome rewards," according to the informational blurb on RIFT's website. We'll leave the honor and respect bit to your fertile imaginations, but the awesome rewards are quite tangible. They include full Guardian and Defiant uniforms, personal vendors, and on-the-go mailboxes. You can also buy your way to full veteran status (and unlock the high tier rewards immediately) by purchasing a multi-month subscription.

Look for more details in our upcoming interview with Trion.

[Thanks to Ren54 for the tip!]

MassivelyRIFT veteran rewards coming with 1.5 update originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.5-patch1.5-updatedefiant-uniformfantasyguardian-uniformmailboxmmo-industrypersonal-vendorpromotionsriftrift-1.5telaratriontrion-worldsvet-rewardsveteran-rewardsTue, 20 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE readying EverQuest II double XP weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/soe-readying-everquest-ii-double-xp-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/soe-readying-everquest-ii-double-xp-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/soe-readying-everquest-ii-double-xp-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Felwithe mansion player housing
Pick out your favorite grind spots, adventurers (and tradeskillers too, for that matter), as Sony Online Entertainment is trotting out an EverQuest II double experience weekend starting on Friday, September 2nd. The XP smorgasbord will end on Monday, September 5th, so if you've got no plans for the Labor Day weekend as of yet, why not spend a portion of it in Norrath?

It's as good a time as any to check out the new itemization revamp that debuted with the recent GU 61 patch, and don't forget that the bonus applies to alternate advancement experience as well. More details are available via EQ2Wire and the official EQII website.

MassivelySOE readying EverQuest II double XP weekend originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpdouble-xpdouble-xp-weekendeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgu-61norrathpromotionssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentThu, 01 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth store goes all the way with a 100% rebate event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/fallen-earth-store-goes-all-the-way-with-a-100-rebate-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/fallen-earth-store-goes-all-the-way-with-a-100-rebate-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/fallen-earth-store-goes-all-the-way-with-a-100-rebate-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You could buy a gun! You know, to shoot back.
You know what's better than spending a bunch of money on buying in-game items for your character in the soon-to-be free-to-play Fallen Earth? Spending a bunch of money on buying in-game items for your character and then getting all of that money back. Sounds too good to be true? It's not. From August 18th to August 23rd, GamersFirst is holding a 100% rebate promotion for the game, where every purchase will come with a nice big rebate of every credit used in the purchase.

Now, before you ask, it's not quite free -- the rebate comes after the end of the promotion, meaning that if you spend $20 during the promotion, you will be credited with $20 after the promotion ends. Still, it's a chance to pick up all sorts of fun accessories, several of which are deeply discounted during the promotion. Fallen Earth players would be well advised to browse the market and decide if there's anything worth buying -- after all, it all comes back to you in the end.

MassivelyFallen Earth store goes all the way with a 100% rebate event originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfefree-to-playgamersfirsticarus-studiosmicrotransactionspromotionsrebatesstore-creditsstore-rebatesWed, 17 Aug 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan offering free potion pack for all]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/age-of-conan-offering-free-potion-pack-for-all/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/age-of-conan-offering-free-potion-pack-for-all/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/age-of-conan-offering-free-potion-pack-for-all/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Age of Conan - King's Reward
As if you didn't have enough incentive to log into Age of Conan lately, Funcom is giving you one more. Yes, Unchained is here, as is free-to-play and a lot of new content. On top of that, the AoC Facebook page just mentioned a promotion called The King's Reward which runs through the end of the month.

Every Age of Conan player will receive a free potion pack via the new in-game store, and unlike everything else in the cash shop, the bundle is free of charge. Goodies include various flavors of XP-enhancing potions (including PvP, mastery, and regular XP), a temporary PvP evade boost, and a resurrect potion.

These items may only be claimed on one avatar per account, so choose wisely if you've got a ton of toons lounging about on your character select screen.

MassivelyAge of Conan offering free potion pack for all originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-unchainedf2pfantasyfree-to-playfuncomhyboriakings-rewardpotion-packpotionspromotionspvp-evade-ratingresurrect-potionthe-kings-rewardxpxp-potionFri, 12 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT founders receive free game client for friends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/rift-founders-receive-free-game-client-for-friends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/rift-founders-receive-free-game-client-for-friends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/rift-founders-receive-free-game-client-for-friends/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

RIFT founders, check your emails. Trion Worlds has sent out a new offer tied to its Ascend-a-Friend promotion. The program is geared toward early (and multi-month) adopters and their RIFT-less buddies, and aims to bring people together in the world of Telara for hours of adventure and progression.

The founder email features a code that grants your friend a free copy of the game client, and as long as your pal signs up under the Ascend-a-Friend program, he'll count towards your reward total. If you manage to convert three friends, you'll receive an Ember Steed which matches the speed of your fastest mount, and probably looks a lot nicer to boot.

Your friend isn't left out in the cold, of course. In addition to a free copy of RIFT, Ascend-a-Friend participants will get a unique in-game title ("The Chosen") as well as the ability to summon (or be summoned) to their referring buddy once every half hour.

MassivelyRIFT founders receive free game client for friends originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascend-a-friendbuddy-keysember-steedfantasyfounderfree-copy-of-riftpromotionsriftrift-planes-of-telaratelarathe-chosentriontrion-world-networktrion-worldsFri, 22 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's offers limited-time subscription discounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/rifts-offers-limited-time-subscription-discounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/rifts-offers-limited-time-subscription-discounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/rifts-offers-limited-time-subscription-discounts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Getting into the RIFT groove and certain you'll be sticking it out for a while to come? Then there's a way you could be saving some money as well by signing up for one of Trion Worlds' new subscription plans during the "Summer of Savings" period that began this month.

By committing to three, six or 12-month subscriptions, players can enjoy RIFT for a substantially lower monthly cost than the standard $14.99 fee. The three-month option comes out to be $12.29 per month, the six-month is $10.29, and the annual option is $8.99.

It's interesting to note that these prices are close to those set by Trion for pre-order founders. A player using founder's pricing can pay $59.94 for a six-month subscription while a Summer of Savings customer will shell out $61.74 for the same service.

As with founder's pricing, players can lock in these discounted rates -- as long as they stay subscribed to the game. The small print informs us that if a promotional subscriber discontinues service and then re-ups later on, he or she will have to revert to standard pricing.

MassivelyRIFT's offers limited-time subscription discounts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealdiscountfounderfoundersfounders-pricingpromotionpromotionsriftsavingsavingssubscription-discountsummer-of-savingstriontrion-worldsMon, 11 Jul 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heatwave CEO talks Gods and Heroes population]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/10/heatwave-ceo-talks-gods-and-heroes-population/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/10/heatwave-ceo-talks-gods-and-heroes-population/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/10/heatwave-ceo-talks-gods-and-heroes-population/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fans of Heatwave Interactive's recently launched Gods and Heroes MMO will be happy to note that the dev team is not sitting idly by now that the game has launched. Heatwave CEO Anthony Castoro has penned an update post on the official forums that features a lot of frank talk about the game and its immediate future, including the need to "begin a promotion that will drive thousands more players to the game and turn Baccus, Mars, and Jupiter into communities bursting at the seams."

Castoro doesn't elaborate on what the promotion might be, but he does say that even though Gods and Heroes doesn't need 500,000 users to turn a profit, "our current growth rate isn't good enough." Finally, Castoro notes that the game has "an awareness issue and our pricing model doesn't seem to be tantalizing enough."

Whether Heatwave is looking at a freemium conversion or simply a price reduction coupled with more advertising, Castoro's post makes clear that the team is in it for the long haul. Check out the blurb on the official forums for a list of Heatwave's immediate priorities.

MassivelyHeatwave CEO talks Gods and Heroes population originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsgods-and-heroesgods-and-heroes-rome-risingheatwaveheatwave-interactivemmo-industrymythologypopulationpromotionsroman-mythologySun, 10 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Recruit-a-Friend program comes to EverQuest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment's Recruit-a-Friend program (otherwise known as the powerlevel-your-alts-with-multiple-accounts program) has been a hit in EverQuest II for quite some time now. It's only natural that the initiative make its way to the original incarnation of Norrath, and SOE's Piestro has posted a notice on the official EverQuest boards marking just such an occasion.

Recruits and recruiters will enjoy a wealth of benefits including in-game mounts, bonus Station Cash, Legends of Norrath booster packs, a unique title, and of course, loads of bonus XP. Check out all the details on the o-boards, then hit up the official RaF page to get started.

MassivelyRecruit-a-Friend program comes to EverQuest originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpeqeverquestfantasyin-game-itemsmmo-industrymountsnorrathpiestropromotionsrafrecruit-a-friendsoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttitlesxpxp-bonusSat, 02 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Reasons to go back to older MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/the-perfect-ten-reasons-to-go-back-to-older-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/the-perfect-ten-reasons-to-go-back-to-older-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/the-perfect-ten-reasons-to-go-back-to-older-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

When one MMO dies, it forces us to look at the rest of the bunch through the sunglasses of mortality. Games we didn't think twice about last week suddenly gain new relevance as we try to imagine a post-apocalyptic world where they cease to exist. I've always thought that our hobby is built on a shared illusion, one by which we all just pretend that these games will go on indefinitely, but that's not really the case.

As I try to pull us out of the tailspin depression of the previous paragraph, let me say that the finite nature of MMO lifespans shouldn't deter us from getting involved in them; on the contrary, it should make what they do and what they are that much more precious to us -- precious like a little show dog that we pet obsessively or an all-powerful ring forged in the fires of Mount Doom and given to completely clueless gardeners for safekeeping.

In fact, I think this is the perfect time -- summertime -- to give older MMOs a try, and I'm willing to argue that while wearing my best white suspenders and southern drawl. If it please the gentlemen and ladies of the court, here are 10 reasons why we should go back to the MMOs of yore.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Reasons to go back to older MMOs

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Reasons to go back to older MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacontent-updatedealsexpansionexpansionsf2pfeaturedforce-ghostfree-to-playguild-warsgwlistlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromature-mmosolder-mmospatchpay-to-beta-testperfect-10perfect-tenplaytestingpocketbookpromotionsstar-wars-galaxiesswgtestingthe-game-archaeologistthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenupdateThu, 30 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 goes anti-disco in the June producer's letter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/wizard101-goes-anti-disco-in-the-june-producers-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/wizard101-goes-anti-disco-in-the-june-producers-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/wizard101-goes-anti-disco-in-the-june-producers-letter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The community at Wizard101 is still riding high on the recent Wintertusk world expansion, and according to the June producer's letter, KingsIsle wants to keep the good times rolling.

Apart from relaying a few testimonials about the recent expansion, the producer's letter is all about the Benjam-- er, Crowns. Leah Ruben spotlights a couple of promotional sales from the company, including a Dragon's Hoard booster pack that has the potential to deliver rare goodies, and a GameStop card that unleashes a genie (among other things) in your Wizard101 world.

Ruben says that a recent graphical issue known as "discoing" on older machines is now fixed. "While sometimes it's fun to dance the disco with flashing colors and lights," she jokes, "it's a bit distracting when you're trying to adventure through the new worlds."

Finally, Ruben says that the UK version of the game has added a German language version for those who perfer to play in their native tongue. Assuming that you're German and not Swedish. Or Kenyan. Or... well, you get the point. You can read the full producer's letter over at Wizard101.

MassivelyWizard101 goes anti-disco in the June producer's letter originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booster-packdiscodiscoingdragons-hoardgamestopgeniegermankenyankingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlanguageLeah-Rubenproducers-letterpromotionsswedishukunited-kingdomversionversionswintertuskwizard101Mon, 20 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get RIFT for $9.99 this weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/get-rift-for-9-99-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/get-rift-for-9-99-this-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/get-rift-for-9-99-this-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Trion's got a couple of weekend deals in store for all you last-minute Father's Day shopping slackers, provided of course that the gaming dad in your family plays RIFT.

First up is a $9.99 special that gives you the full game client. Gameplay time will cost you extra, though, so assuming you go with the standard monthly fee, you're looking at around 25 bucks for full access to Telara.

Next up is the trial upgrade collector's edition special, which will set you back $16.99. You get the full client per above as well as a tartagon mount, a collector's satchel, and a bogling wastrel pet. Both deals are digital only, so if your dad, husband, or baby's daddy wants a box, you'll need to check out the brick and mortar or online retailers listed on Trion's website.

MassivelyGet RIFT for $9.99 this weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editiondealsdigital-downloadfantasyfathers-dayfathersdaypromotionsriftspecialstelaratriontrion-world-networktrion-worldsFri, 17 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jade Dynasty celebrating its two-year anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/jade-dynasty-celebrating-its-two-year-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/jade-dynasty-celebrating-its-two-year-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/jade-dynasty-celebrating-its-two-year-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jade Dynasty is hitting the two-year mark on Wednesday, and the staff at Perfect World Entertainment wants to celebrate in style. And it starts today, with a doubled experience gain turned on from now until June 22nd. But that's only the smallest portion of the various anniversary events and prizes players can expect, which include special in-game giveaways on the game's various servers along with special quest events that can award items found nowhere else in the game.

While most of the special events will be running for the length of the doubled experience event, a special site has been set up for a giveaway that goes live as soon as the clock ticks over to June 15th. There's also a cosplay contest for players and a special audiocast slated for some point during the anniversary week. Jade Dynasty players should take a look at all the festivities planned, which should more than satisfy long-term veterans of the game.

MassivelyJade Dynasty celebrating its two-year anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-eventcelebrationf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventjade-dynastyjdperfect-world-entertainmentpromotionspwespecial-eventsMon, 13 Jun 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE awarding triple Station Cash, offering special Memorial Day weekend items and events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/28/soe-awarding-triple-station-cash-offering-special-memorial-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/28/soe-awarding-triple-station-cash-offering-special-memorial-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/28/soe-awarding-triple-station-cash-offering-special-memorial-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment is looking to move a bunch of its pre-paid Station Cash cards. As a result, all such cards (available at retailers including Wal-Mart and Best Buy) may be redeemed for triple the normal Station Cash points. The promotion is valid from May 27th through May 30th, and SOE is also making a few special items available in select games to celebrate the Memorial Day weekend.

EverQuest features a number of paintings for sale, EverQuest II is giving away free time-limited flying mounts, and Free Realms is selling discounted Memorial day clothing packs for 400 Station Cash. Star Wars Galaxies is throwing a "bonus everything" weekend featuring double XP, double GCW, and double a-bunch-of-other-stuff, the details of which you can find on the official SOE forums.

MassivelySOE awarding triple Station Cash, offering special Memorial Day weekend items and events originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>briberycash-shopeqeqiieverquesteverquest-2f2pfantasyfree-realmsfree-to-playpromotionssci-fisoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstation-cashstation-cash-cardsswgtriple-station-cashvanity-itemsSat, 28 May 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Open beta starts tomorrow for Asda 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/open-beta-starts-tomorrow-for-asda-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/open-beta-starts-tomorrow-for-asda-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/open-beta-starts-tomorrow-for-asda-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Open betas are a magical time, a time when players can all take part in a new game before release without having to actually pay to get in. Of course, potential players of Asda 2 are already in the boat of not having to pay, as the game is an upcoming free-to-play title. But the game's open beta begins tomorrow regardless, and to help entice more players into the testing phase, the staff is running a number of promotions.

Players who log in throughout the open beta or advance their Soul Mate bonds the fastest will be eligible to win some Campus Cash (the microtransaction currency for the game). Lucky Monster tokens can also be collected throughout the beta, giving players a chance to win iPods, a 3DS, and other prizes. If Asda 2's anime-style artwork and relationship system seem like the sort of thing you'd enjoy, be sure to check out the beta starting tomorrow.

MassivelyOpen beta starts tomorrow for Asda 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 May 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asdaasda-2betabeta-testcampus-cashf2pfree-to-playgamescampusopen-betapromotionstestingtesting-phaseWed, 18 May 2011 22:00:00 EST