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[Interview confirms World of Darkness dev team, predicts DUST 514 sales]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/interview-confirms-world-of-darkness-dev-team-predicts-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/interview-confirms-world-of-darkness-dev-team-predicts-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/interview-confirms-world-of-darkness-dev-team-predicts-dust-514/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online title image
When CCP Games laid off 20% of its worldwide staff back in October of last year, the World of Darkness dev team bore the brunt of the cuts while DUST 514 continued on course for its launch later this year. In an interview over at TenTonHammer today, CCP's new Chief Marketing Officer, David Reid, joined CEO Hilmar Petursson to discuss the development of both games. Hilmar reveals that a team of 60 developers are currently working on WoD, and that DUST 514 will be playable at this year's EVE Online fanfest event in March.

Despite acknowledging that the entire PlayStation Network comprises a total of 60 million users, Reid asserts that DUST will bring "tens of millions of people that play shooters on PSN into the New Eden universe," going on to make the bold statement that "EVE could be the biggest game in the world at the end of 2012" as a result. Reid also claims that "EVE Online is the only game in the West that has shown consecutive growth year after year," a statement that's sure to upset RuneScape developer Jagex and others. The statement also comes with a slightly bitter note as this year EVE may have lost its record of continual subscription growth during the summer drama.

MassivelyInterview confirms World of Darkness dev team, predicts DUST 514 sales originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescmoconsoledavid-reiddustdust-514eveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfpsfree-to-playgothichilmar-peturssonhorrorinterviewjagexjagex-games-studiomillionsmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3PlayStation-Networkps3psnrsrunescapesalessandboxsci-fishootersupernaturalvampirevampireswhite-wolfwodworld-of-darknessFri, 03 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anonymous not targeting Sony customers in OpSony]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/anonymous-not-targeting-sony-customers-in-opsony/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/anonymous-not-targeting-sony-customers-in-opsony/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/anonymous-not-targeting-sony-customers-in-opsony/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

PlayStation Network logo
Internet superhero/supervillain organization Anonymous is at it again, and this time it's leading the charge against internet censorship act SOPA. At the moment, Sony stands in favor of SOPA, and Anonymous does not plan on letting that fly. Considering the fact that this is the group responsible for bringing down PSN last year, many gamers have raised concerns over what Anonymous' latest plan could mean for them.

Normal gamers can breathe easily, though, as Anonymous seems to have deemed PSN untouchable. The group also mentioned that it would not be releasing the private information of Sony customers, but some Sony employee information -- including names, addresses, credit card numbers, etc. -- has already been posted online. So there's that, we guess. We're glad that someone is standing up to SOPA, but this could get ugly very quickly. What do you think of Anonymous' OpSony?

MassivelyAnonymous not targeting Sony customers in OpSony originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anonanonymousanti-sopacultureindustryplaystation-networkpoliticspsnsoesonysony-online-entertainmentsopastop-online-piracy-actMon, 02 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard hiring Diablo III network engineer to work on consoles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/blizzard-hiring-diablo-iii-network-engineer-to-work-on-consoles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/blizzard-hiring-diablo-iii-network-engineer-to-work-on-consoles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/blizzard-hiring-diablo-iii-network-engineer-to-work-on-consoles/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Diablo III
As 2012 rolls in, many gamers are rejoicing that they might make it to a year that Diablo III actually releases. Blizzard's action-RPG will certainly be a hit on the PC, although console fans may have more hope today that Diablo III could reach the shores of their platform.

According to a job posting on Gamasutra, Blizzard is hiring a "Senior Software Engineer Console Network" to work on the Diablo team. It's a full-time position that will be in charge of designing and working on network systems for a console title. One of the requirements for the job is that the person have worked on a major Xbox 360 or PS3 title and have a good amount of experience with PSN and Xbox Live.

While this is not the first indication that Blizzard is working on a console version of Diablo III, it certainly lends credence to the notion that the company is actively working on it. The studio previously said that the title "is probably coming to consoles."

MassivelyBlizzard hiring Diablo III network engineer to work on consoles originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzard-entertainmentconsoleconsole-mmodiablodiablo-3diablo-iiigamasutraplaystation-networkpsnsenior-software-engineer-console-networkxboxxbox-360xbox-liveThu, 29 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New website provides online opt-out services for game EULAs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/new-website-provides-online-opt-out-services-for-game-eulas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/new-website-provides-online-opt-out-services-for-game-eulas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/new-website-provides-online-opt-out-services-for-game-eulas/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GamersOptOut header text - opting out of class actions
If you're like most of us, you don't read the giant wall o' legalese that serves as a speed bump on the way to your favorite virtual world. A group of Redditors has, though, and has set up a new website designed to assist gamers in opting out of the clause that prevents participation in potential class action lawsuits leveled against gaming service providers.

Apparently opting out requires that a physical letter be mailed to the gaming company in question, and GamersOptOut.com purports to do the tedious work for you (either for free or for a voluntary donation). The catch is that you'll need to provide personal information, including your name, address, and game account name.

The website's creators page lists the online handles (as well as Xbox Live, PSN, and Twitter identities) of those responsible, but given the anonymous nature of the site and the privacy concerns raised by providing your personal info, we suggest you proceed with caution. Currently the website features an opt-out form for Sony's PlayStation network and Electronic Arts' new Origin digital delivery service.

MassivelyNew website provides online opt-out services for game EULAs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anonymousclass-actionclass-action-lawsuiteaelectronic-artseulagame-industrygamers-opt-outgamersoptoutlawsuitlegalmmo-industryopt-outplaystation-networkpsnshadysonyTue, 04 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Does SOE owe you in-game compensation?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/the-daily-grind-does-soe-owe-you-in-game-compensation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/the-daily-grind-does-soe-owe-you-in-game-compensation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/the-daily-grind-does-soe-owe-you-in-game-compensation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The recent announcement by Sony Online Entertainment of a compensation program for users affected by the downtime of its MMORPGs presents lots of opportunities for discussion. In some quarters, players have praised SOE for lining up double XP benefits, events, and one-of-a-kind items. In other cases, displaced vets are complaining about the sheer unfairness of it all, as well as the perceived inadequacy of the reward items offered as an olive branch.

Underlying all of this is the question of whether SOE owes anything to consumers aside from honest billing practices and identity theft protection services for those actually affected by the breach.

If nothing else, the fiasco serves as an interesting case study not only for PR disaster prevention and MMO IT practices, but also feelings of player entitlement. How about it, Massively folk? Do you think SOE owes you in-game compensation for your lost leisure time, or are you content with freely available identity theft protection programs?

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: Does SOE owe you in-game compensation? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 May 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>entitlemententitlementsgame-discussiongamer-discussionin-game-rewardsmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsplaystation-hackedpsnpsn-hackrewardssoesoe-hacksoe-hacksSony-Online-Entertainmenttdgthe-daily-grindMon, 16 May 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony aiming for May 31st PSN service restoration [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/sony-aiming-for-may-31st-psn-service-restoration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/sony-aiming-for-may-31st-psn-service-restoration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/sony-aiming-for-may-31st-psn-service-restoration/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Sony's network security woes continued over the weekend, and the light at the end of the tunnel still seems like a distant pin prick for the embattled gaming giant and its displaced customers. Bloomberg reports that Sony spokesman Shigenori Yoshida indicated the company plans to restart Playstation Network services by May 31st, which would bring the total downtime to a whopping 41 days.

Nick Caplin, head of communications for Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, posted an update to the European PlayStation blog hinting at the reasons for a longer delay. "We expected to have the services online within a week. We were unaware of the extent of the attack on Sony Online Entertainment servers, and we are taking this opportunity to conduct further testing of the incredibly complex system," he wrote.

While the PS3 versions of both Free Realms and DC Universe Online fall under the PSN umbrella, no word has been forthcoming as to a restart date for the rest of SOE's MMO stable, which includes the PC versions of the aforementioned titles as well as EverQuest and EverQuest II.

[Update: CNET is reporting that Sony is considering a reward for information leading to the capture of the hackers. Meanwhile, Sony is apparently contesting reports about the May 31st date, suggesting no such hard deadline for PSN resumption exists.]

MassivelySony aiming for May 31st PSN service restoration [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 May 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuodowntimeeqeq2everquesteverquest-2everquest-iifree-realmsmmo-industrynick-caplinplaystation-networkpsnpsn-hacksecuritysecurity-breachshigenori-yoshidasoesonysony-attackSony-Computer-Entertainment-Europesony-corpsony-hackSony-Online-EntertainmentMon, 09 May 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hackers say Anonymous was responsible for Sony attack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/hackers-say-anonymous-was-responsible-for-sony-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/hackers-say-anonymous-was-responsible-for-sony-attack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/hackers-say-anonymous-was-responsible-for-sony-attack/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sony and its customers may be having identity theft problems, but the hacker collective known as Anonymous is having something of an identity crisis. Despite the group's public disavowal of the attacks that brought down the PlayStation Network (and that later caused SOE to suspend its MMORPG services), one Anonymous member recently told the Financial Times that the infamous group was indeed behind the attacks.

"If you say you are Anonymous, and do something as Anonymous, then Anonymous did it. Just because the rest of Anonymous might not agree with it doesn't mean Anonymous didn't do it," the unnamed hacker said.

Anonymous had previously distanced itself from the Sony fiasco in a press release circulated earlier this week. A second Anonymous member added that "it's Anon's work. But you can't blame the whole collective for what one or two guys do."

MassivelyHackers say Anonymous was responsible for Sony attack originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 May 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anonymoushackhacker-collectivehackingidiotsmmo-industryplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-network-hackspsnsoesonysony-hackFri, 06 May 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony offering free identity theft coverage for PS3 users]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/sony-offering-free-identity-theft-coverage-for-ps3-users/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/sony-offering-free-identity-theft-coverage-for-ps3-users/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/sony-offering-free-identity-theft-coverage-for-ps3-users/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sony has officially announced specifics of the complimentary identity theft protection program it's extending to customers in the wake of its well-publicized security breach. Corporate communications director Patrick Seybold outlines the details in a new post on the official PlayStation blog.

Sony has partnered with Debix, Inc., and gamers will be able to take advantage of the latter company's AllClearID Plus program for 12 months at no cost. Sony will be sending out activation emails over the next few days, and you'll need to redeem your code by June 18th to participate.

Seybold notes that this program is only valid for account holders in the United States, and Sony is currently "working to make similar programs available in other countries/territories." The AllClearID Plus program includes cyber monitoring and surveillance designed to detect exposure of personal information, priority access to licensed investigators and ID restoration specialists, and a $1 million insurance policy.

MassivelySony offering free identity theft coverage for PS3 users originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 May 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allclearidallclearid-plusdata-theftdebixdebix-incid-theftid-theft-programid-theft-protectionmmo-industrypatrick-seyboldplaystation-blogplaystation3psnsonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-hackFri, 06 May 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Expert says Sony knew of PSN security weakness]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/expert-says-sony-knew-of-psn-security-weakness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/expert-says-sony-knew-of-psn-security-weakness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/expert-says-sony-knew-of-psn-security-weakness/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The PlayStation Network outage plot thickens. In today's hearing by the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Sony executive vice president Kaz Hirai refused to testify. One who did testify, however, was US Public Policy Council of the Association for Computing Machinery head Gene Spafford, and did he ever have some words for Sony.

During his testimony, Spafford claimed that Sony was well aware of the security holes in the PlayStation Network, asserting that PSN was using old software that was "unpatched and had no firewall installed." He also noted that these security issues were brought to the table in a Sony-moderated forum, but no action was taken as a result.

If these claims are true, Sony is in for an even bigger world of hurt, and this situation could escalate into something not even a complimentary Batman mask can rectify.

In related news, TG Daily reports that New York's Attorney General has subpoenaed Sony over the data breach and what "representations" were made to its customers in regard to the security of their information.

MassivelyExpert says Sony knew of PSN security weakness originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 May 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kaz-hirainetwork-outageoutageplaystationplaystation-3playstation-networkps3psnpsn-breachpsn-outagesoesonysony-breachsony-online-entertainmentThu, 05 May 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online players getting a new mask as a consolation prize]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/dc-universe-online-players-getting-a-new-mask-as-a-consolation-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/dc-universe-online-players-getting-a-new-mask-as-a-consolation-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/dc-universe-online-players-getting-a-new-mask-as-a-consolation-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It hasn't been an easy ride for Sony Online Entertainment customers this week, as it looks like the PSN hack has affected them as well. The company is already working on a plan to make up the outage to players, especially the DC Universe Online customers who have been doubly hit. And as we all know, the road to mending fences starts with a nice hat, which has just recently been revealed on the former game's Facebook page.

According to the official statement, all DC Universe Online players impacted by the outage will receive a free month of game time plus one day per day that the service was unavailable. Players will also be receiving a new Batman-inspired mask as shown above. Precise details will be made available to players in the coming days as network service begins restoration, and while the hat won't cure all woes, it will at least help ease the sting.

MassivelyDC Universe Online players getting a new mask as a consolation prize originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 May 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuomake-good-plannetwork-outageoutageplaystation-networkpsnpsn-breachpsn-hacksoesoe-hacksony-breachsony-hacksony-online-entertainmentwelcome-backWed, 04 May 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony executive to address media regarding PlayStation Network debacle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/sony-executive-to-address-media-regarding-playstation-network-de/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/sony-executive-to-address-media-regarding-playstation-network-de/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/30/sony-executive-to-address-media-regarding-playstation-network-de/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you're curious what Sony higher-ups have to say about the recent PlayStation Network security debacle, you'll want to check out Kazuo Hirai's remarks to the media at 2:00 p.m. Sunday in Tokyo (1:00 a.m. EDT). Hirai, Sony Corp's executive deputy president, is expected to field questions from journalists as well as use his considerable PR skills to put a positive spin on the situation and its aftermath.

Much is at stake for the global entertainment giant, including possible legal actions resulting from the compromise of 77 million user accounts (and the company's delayed response and acknowledgment of the problem well after the fact). It's a big moment for Hirai as well; the executive is considered the front-runner in the race to supplant current Sony president Howard Stringer -- who has "been vague about his plans from the next financial year that starts in April 2012" according to Reuters.

MassivelySony executive to address media regarding PlayStation Network debacle originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 30 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>data-breachhoward-stringerkazuo-hiraimmo-industryplaystationplaystation-networkpress-releasepsnsecuritysecurity-breachsonysony-corpspinuser-accounts-compromisedSat, 30 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE working on a "make good plan" for its customers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/soe-working-on-make-good-plan-for-its-customers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/soe-working-on-make-good-plan-for-its-customers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/soe-working-on-make-good-plan-for-its-customers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In the wake of the uproar following Sony's announcement regarding customer data theft, the company has continued working to repair the damage and communicate with its customers.

The latest information includes an FAQ on the incident as well as another announcement from Linda "Brasse" Carlson:
We apologize for any inconvenience players may have experienced as a result of the recent service interruption. As a global leader in online gaming, SOE is committed to delivering stable and entertaining games for players of all ages.

To thank players for their patience, we will be hosting special events this weekend across our game portfolio, including a Double Station Cash day on Saturday, April 30th. We are also working on a "make good" plan for players of the PS3 versions of DC Universe Online and Free Realms. Details will be available soon on the individual game websites and forums.
In addition to the general FAQ and announcement, senior director of corporate communications and social media Patrick Seybold updated the Playstation blog to clarify the reasons behind the delay in communicating information on this incident to customers. Keep an eye on Massively for more details on the make good plan as they become available.

MassivelySOE working on a "make good plan" for its customers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brassedc-universe-onlinedcuofree-realmslinda-carlsonpatrick-seyboldplaystation-networkplaystation-network-outageplaystation-network-shutdownps3psnsoesonySony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 27 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MAG announces double XP weekend and Fast Attack pack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/mag-announces-double-xp-weekend-and-fast-attack-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/mag-announces-double-xp-weekend-and-fast-attack-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/30/mag-announces-double-xp-weekend-and-fast-attack-pack/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MAG is offering players some new downloadable content that is awesome in and of itself, and even better because it's free. The newest DLC is the Fast Attack Pack -- three new sniper rifles and Improved Light Armor. Yes, it is 100%, honest to goodness free and available in the Playstation Store now along with the other PSN updates, so be sure to add it to your account.

That's not the only gift for MAG players this weekend, however. Players can put their new rifles and armor through their paces and earn extra XP in the bargain, thanks to the double XP weekend. The event lasts until 11:59 PM Pacific time on Sunday, May 2nd, and if you're a veteran who already has an XP boost: yes, the bonus stacks. It's important to note that you need to complete every game to enjoy the bonus XP, because it's not applied until the end of a match.

MassivelyMAG announces double XP weekend and Fast Attack pack originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Apr 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCdouble-xpdouble-xp-weekenddownloadable-contentMAGPlaystation3PSNFri, 30 Apr 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MAG in open beta until January 10th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/mag-in-open-beta-until-january-10th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/mag-in-open-beta-until-january-10th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/mag-in-open-beta-until-january-10th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's last minute, we know, but if you're a PS3 owner then you might want to scoot over to the PlayStation Store and download the MAG open beta client. The system's MMOFPS will be online until the 10th, when they take the game off the store and prep it for the official January 26th launch.

Beware you have room on your hard drive and time to leave your PS3 on to download, however, as you'll be looking forward to a 2 GB download. A headset is nice to have too, so you can communicate with your squadmates (they'll appreciate it,) but it's not required to play the game.

So this weekend enjoy conducting a war with 255 other people on the battlefield with you. Try not to get shot too much!

MassivelyMAG in open beta until January 10th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>256-playermagmassive-action-gamemmofpsopen-betaplaystation3ps3psnpsn-storepublic-betazipper-interactiveFri, 08 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you use PlayStation Home?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/the-daily-grind-do-you-use-playstation-home/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/the-daily-grind-do-you-use-playstation-home/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/the-daily-grind-do-you-use-playstation-home/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Now here's an odd question that could only be thought up at 8 in the morning. If you own a PS3, are you an avid user of PlayStation Home, or do you avoid the console's virtual world like the plague?

We ask because the world seems to present two very different versions of itself. On one hand, some of the mini-games are kinda interesting, the virtual environment does take full advantage of the PS3's graphical capabilities, and the virtual spaces for the different PS3 games are kinda cool.

However, on the flip side, you get to deal with the worst of the PlayStation Network community while you can't completely remove them from your screen. If you make a female avatar, get ready to get swamped by every guy in a 30 virtual mile radius no matter how you're dressed.

So tell us why or why not you use Home, and don't be afraid to give us all of the gritty details. Go readers, go!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you use PlayStation Home? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-discussiongamer-discussionhomeopinionplaystation-homeplaystation-networkplaystation3ps3psnsonythe-daily-grindvirtual-worldFri, 30 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Sony says Playstation Home holds 6.5 million accounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/e3-2009-sony-says-playstation-home-holds-6-5-million-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/e3-2009-sony-says-playstation-home-holds-6-5-million-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/e3-2009-sony-says-playstation-home-holds-6-5-million-accounts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


In addition to all of the games Sony has been showing at their press conference today, Sony released some impressive numbers for their Playstation Home service, revealing they now hold 6.5 million accounts and the Home service sports an 85% return rate for users. The 6.5 million accounts is impressive, but the 85% return rate is a vague, empty number that we're not quite sure what it means.

To further expand their plans for Home, Sony will be introducing over 100 new virtual items each month, as over 100,000 items related to Capcom and Resident Evil were sold two months after their introduction. Future game spaces will include areas for inFAMOUS, Buzz! and Socom, with EA, Ubisoft, Activision, Namco, and Eidos jumping on the game space bandwagon with their support.

MassivelyE3 2009: Sony says Playstation Home holds 6.5 million accounts originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buzzcapcomdownloadse3e3-2009infamousplaystation-3playstation-homeps3psnpsn-homesocomTue, 02 Jun 2009 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you want more console MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-want-more-console-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-want-more-console-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-want-more-console-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


MMOs are primarly a PC business. They started here, and they're certainly dominating the PC gaming industry, one hard drive at a time. But why must we limit the MMO to simply the PC machine? What about the untouched masses of the console market? Why must we keep our games to ourselves when we should share freely with the others?

Ok, ok, controller vs. keyboard issues aside, what do all of you think about console MMOs? We already have Final Fantasy XI and Phantasy Star Universe on the Xbox 360 and PS2. We also have The Agency eventually making a debut on the PS3 and the rumored Age of Conan release on the Xbox 360, but 4 MMO games is nowhere near the many many games we have on our PCs.

Do you want to log into Xbox Live or PlayStation Network and boot up your favorite MMO? Would you rather sit on your couch and raid instead of your computer chair? Can cats and dogs live together in harmony? Readers, we need your opinions!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you want more console MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 13 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsole-gamingconsole-mmoffxifinal-fantasy-xipc-gamingphantasy-star-universeplaystation-networkpsnpsusquare-enixthe-daily-grindxblxbox-livexbox360Sat, 13 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Patches pose a problem for DC Universe Online cross-platform play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/patches-pose-a-problem-for-DC-universe-online-cross-platform-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/patches-pose-a-problem-for-DC-universe-online-cross-platform-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/patches-pose-a-problem-for-DC-universe-online-cross-platform-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DC Universe Online Creative Director Chris Cao told MTV's Multiplayer blog that SOE hopes to support cross-platform play between PlayStation 3 and PC DCUO players, but isn't ready to commit to it just yet.

Cao said that cross-platform play is still high on the priority list, but no definite promise has been made because delivering game updates to PS3 users is a very different process than delivering them to PC users. SOE is still trying to figure out how to do simultaneous updates on both platforms.

We've heard about this problem before, of course. Funcom is facing something similar as it works to port Age of Conan to the Xbox 360. SOE is in a good position to deal with it though, since it is actually a part of the company that's responsible for the PlayStation Network authentication process. "I think if anybody is going to do it and make it simultaneously seamless for people it's going to be us," said Cao. "It's just that we haven't done it yet, so we don't like to promise what we haven't delivered yet."

MassivelyPatches pose a problem for DC Universe Online cross-platform play originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-caoconsoleconsolescross-platformdc-universe-onlinedcudcuointerviewmtv-multiplayerpatchespcplaystation-3playstation-networkpsnsoethe-agencyupdatesTue, 30 Sep 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are consoles the future?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/the-daily-grind-are-consoles-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/the-daily-grind-are-consoles-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/the-daily-grind-are-consoles-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The MMO genre was born and raised in the PC culture. The reasons are obvious, of course -- personal computers have been connected to networks for a long time, the keyboard was more effective for communication before the advent of Voice-over-IP. That said, a lot has been done to make platforms like the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3 more attractive for MMO developers and players.

Funcom plans to release Age of Conan for the 360. DC Universe Online, The Agency, and Free Realms will all be available on the PS3. In fact, noted MMO developer SOE was not long ago moved into what is basically Sony's PlayStation division with the explicit intent to focus on console MMOs. Blizzard has hired workers with console experience to work on its unannounced "Next-Gen MMO." Clearly, this generation is going to greatly expand on the pioneering efforts of past console MMOs like Final Fantasy XI. Surely if the genre doesn't explode on today's consoles it will in the next batch, right?

Are you looking forward to leaving behind the mouse and keyboard so you can lounge on the sofa with a wireless controller, or are you concerned that too much will be lost in translation? Maybe you think that attempts like The Agency will fail, and the bubble will burst before anyone even really notices it. There are a lot of problems, such as the expense and hassle of the process of authenticating patches in a tightly-controlled service like Xbox Live. Are problems like that deal breakers?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are consoles the future? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360age-of-conanconsolesdc-universe-onlinediscussionfree-realmsopinionplaystation-3playstation-networkps3psntdgthe-agencythe-daily-grindxbox-360xbox-liveThu, 25 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft licenses texture software used in Xbox Live Arcade games]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/ncsoft-licenses-texture-software-used-in-xbox-live-arcade-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/ncsoft-licenses-texture-software-used-in-xbox-live-arcade-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/ncsoft-licenses-texture-software-used-in-xbox-live-arcade-games/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Allegorithmic, the creator of a procedural texture production tool called ProFX, announced that NCsoft has licensed its product. ProFX produces highly compressed textures that are "tiny, typically a few kilobytes" in size. Those textures are expanded and generated on the fly from that data by the system's processor as needed. That means file sizes are very small, but visual quality is maintained. The tech is therefore popular with companies developing games for the Xbox Live Arcade, the Xbox 360's digital download marketplace for bite-sized, casual gaming experiences.

NCsoft plans to use the technology in the future development of MMOs for PCs and the PlayStation 3 console. That choice might imply a comparatively small scope for those projects. ProFX is perfectly suited for games downloadable through the PlayStation Network store (Sony's answer to the Xbox Live Arcade), so this is another clue that NCsoft's PS3 games might be PSN releases instead of AAA Blu-ray titles.

It's by no means definitive though; NCsoft might have just been looking for a way to bring down patch sizes. So move along now!

MassivelyNCsoft licenses texture software used in Xbox Live Arcade games originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allegorithmicdevelopmentenginelicensencsoftplaystation-3playstation-networkprofxps3psnspeculationtechnologyxbox-liveTue, 24 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Smedley: PS3 has "massive advantage over PC" for MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/smedley-ps3-has-massive-advantage-over-pc-for-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/smedley-ps3-has-massive-advantage-over-pc-for-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/smedley-ps3-has-massive-advantage-over-pc-for-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

GameDaily landed an interview with SOE president John Smedley in the wake of the recent corporate shuffle that moved SOE into the PlayStation family.

Smedley said a lot more this time than he did when he spoke with WarCry last week. He commented on the departure of Sony Pictures head honcho Yair Landau, saying that it's only a coincidence that the SOE move happened at the same time. He also suggested that the move is a bit like "coming home," since EverQuest was originally developed under SCEA's banner.

Most interestingly, though, he said that while SOE is committed to multi-platform releases (read: PC and PS3), he believes the PS3 has a "massive advantage" over the PC for developers and publishers of MMOs. This is because because the system is "a stable platform where every customer has an online box ... and we don't have to worry about graphics cards or anything like that." That this is an advantage is true; that's why a lot of the recent growth in the industry is in web-based games that will run on any hardware (like Sherwood). But it'll be interesting to see how The Agency and the DC Comics MMO do on the PS3.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

MassivelySmedley: PS3 has "massive advantage over PC" for MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-comicsdc-onlinefree-realmsjohn-smedleyplaystationplaystation-3playstation-networkps3psnscesceisoethe-agencyyair-landauThu, 20 Mar 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE moved under SCEI to strengthen PlayStation 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/soe-moved-under-scei-to-strengthen-playstation-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/soe-moved-under-scei-to-strengthen-playstation-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/soe-moved-under-scei-to-strengthen-playstation-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment (the group behind EverQuest, Star Wars Galaxies, and other landmark MMO titles, for the types of readers who need answers to questions like "Vhat eez zees ... 'video game' theeng?") is relocating within the Sony empire. Starting April 1, SOE will operate under the Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. banner.

That means that SOE prez John Smedley will be reporting directly to Kazuo Hirai, who is President and CEO of SCEI, and one of the masterminds behind the success of the PlayStation brand. According to the press release, they're making this move so that Sony can use the talent and resources at SOE to push its online gaming agenda on the PlayStation 3 console. Currently, SOE reports to Sony Pictures Digital.

SOE has already been working on PS3 projects for a while now, including the spy-themed shooter MMO The Agency, and Free Realms, a family-friendly, microtransaction-fueled endeavor. Even though the press release didn't come with new game announcements, it's big news. There's been a lot of debate about whether the XBox 360 or the PS3 is the best online gaming platform, but this new structure could give Sony a new edge.

MassivelySOE moved under SCEI to strengthen PlayStation 3 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcorporatefree-realmsjohn-smedleykazuo-hiraiplaystationplaystation-3playstation-networkpsnsoesoeisonysony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-incsony-online-entertainmentsp3structurethe-agencyThu, 13 Mar 2008 16:15:00 EST