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[RIFT introduces three-faction PvP with Conquest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rift-introduces-three-faction-pvp-with-conquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rift-introduces-three-faction-pvp-with-conquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rift-introduces-three-faction-pvp-with-conquest/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- RIFT
RIFT players have been speculating about what the much-hyped but little-revealed PvP announcement for the title would be, but now it's official: RIFT is bringing out three-faction warfare. In a post on the RIFT official site, Trion Worlds has introduced the Conquest PvP mode, which is a "no-holds-barred, interdimensional battle" in which players can choose from one of three factions (the power-hungry Dominion, the noble Oathsworn, and the knowledge-seeking Nightfall) and take part in a three-way battle to answer one poignant question: "What is the role of the Ascended in the cosmos? To rule, to protect, or to ascend?"

Players eager to become a part of the Conquest won't have to wait long. This Thursday, May 17th, at 7:00 EDT, Trion will be bringing Conquest to the public test server. All you have to do to get on the action yourself is head on over to the game's PTS "getting started" page and follow the instructions, and voila. So get out there and prepare for war, Ascended; it's time to conquer!

[Thanks to Valorith for the tip!]

MassivelyRIFT introduces three-faction PvP with Conquest originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction-pvpbreakingconquestconquest-pvpconquest-pvp-modefantasyplayer-vs-playerptspublic-test-serverpvprealm-vs-realmriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvptriontrion-worldsMon, 14 May 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Call the exterminator]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/hyperspace-beacon-call-the-exterminator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/hyperspace-beacon-call-the-exterminator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/hyperspace-beacon-call-the-exterminator/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Call the exterminator
When deciding what I want to talk about on the Hyperspace Beacon every week, I check over the buzz from various news outlets, personal experiences, and columns from the community. An internet community will inevitably steer toward the negative -- that's just the nature of the internet. And one of the most common themes out there is bugs. I am not talking about Killiks; I mean parts of the game that are not working as intended.

When we -- the press and other fansites -- gave our impressions of Star Wars: The Old Republic, we were at conventions or at lower levels in the game. Level 28 was the highest I ever reached in any beta, and conventions set us on a predetermined path. At that time, I was completely impressed with the level of polish the game had received. I still believe that this game has fewer bugs than a good chunk of MMOs; however, there are certainly more bugs in this game than I'd expect from a single-player release.

I could probably spend a whole article just listing unintended issues with the game, but I do like to be the voice of reason as well. On top of that, I want to see SWTOR succeed. Therefore, beyond just talking about bugs, let's deal with the overall issue of why these critters pop up in the first place.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Call the exterminator

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Call the exterminator originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebugsdc-universe-onlinedcuoeaelectronic-artsendgamefeaturedhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionptspublic-test-serversci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortestingthe-old-republictorTue, 21 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online's patch 1.4.4 on the public test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/warhammer-onlines-patch-1-4-4-on-the-public-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/warhammer-onlines-patch-1-4-4-on-the-public-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/warhammer-onlines-patch-1-4-4-on-the-public-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Warhammer Online
Warhammer Online's patch version 1.4.4 has just hit the public test server, allowing players to partake of some new and exciting features. The Wild Hunt is once again upon the forces of Order and Chaos, and it calls for players to track, hunt, and slay elusive creatures.

A variety of RvR changes have been made as well, such as new Keep Defense mechanics. This new mechanic requires keep defenders to destroy the attacking war party's battering ram, at which point the siege will "briefly shift to a 'Successful Defense' state." The defending troops will then receive a buff, intended to allow them to push back their attackers. Once the defenders push the attackers out of their keep area, however, the buff will quickly fade, putting the battle back on a level playing field.

For all of this and more, players can check out the full patch notes and get a firsthand look on the public test servers.

MassivelyWarhammer Online's patch 1.4.4 on the public test server originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4.4eaelectronic-artskeep-defensemythicmythic-entertainmentpatch-1.4.4ptspublic-test-serverrealm-vs-realmrvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineWed, 07 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT releases more patch 1.5 details, new features hit the PTS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/rift-releases-more-patch-1-5-details-new-features-hit-the-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/rift-releases-more-patch-1-5-details-new-features-hit-the-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/rift-releases-more-patch-1-5-details-new-features-hit-the-pts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- RIFT
RIFT's patch 1.5 is set to hit the live servers later this month, and boy is it a doozy. RIFT's Community Manager Elrar hit the forums today to drop an information bomb on the players. This bomb exploded into a number of bullet points outlining the latest features that players can expect from patch 1.5 on the public test server.

For starters, we've got the Planar Attunement system. This system is being introduced to allow progression for level 50 players, and it awards attunement experience for any activity that would normally grant you experience points. With each level of attunement experience accrued, players are awarded attunement points that can be spent in attunement trees (each associated with one of the six planes) to grant further bonuses for their characters.

Also coming to the game are the Chronicles of Telara instances, which are one- to two-player instances designed for players just getting started on progression after reaching level 50. For players looking for a bigger challenge, the team is introducing Master mode dungeons, which are much more difficult than the current tier 2 Expert dungeons. Of course, with the greater challenge comes greater rewards, such as Marks of Ascension, which allow players to purchase tier 1 raid gear.

For the PvP-minded, Accolades have been introduced into the game's Warfronts. These Accolades reward exceptional gameplay, such as getting the first kill of a match, killing a number of enemies without dying, or wiping out the entire opposing team.

The full details can be found on the official forum posts, and all of this is up and available for testing on the public test server. So what are you waiting for? Go do your duty to Telara, Ascended!

Thanks to ren54 for the tip!

MassivelyRIFT releases more patch 1.5 details, new features hit the PTS originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accoladesattunementchronicleschronicles-of-telaraelrarpatch-1.5planar-attunementptspublic-test-serverpvepvprifttriontrion-worldswarfront-accoladesFri, 02 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Preview RIFT's Chronicles of Telara solo instance content on the PTS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/preview-rifts-chronicles-of-telara-solo-instance-content-on-the/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/preview-rifts-chronicles-of-telara-solo-instance-content-on-the/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/preview-rifts-chronicles-of-telara-solo-instance-content-on-the/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- RIFT
RIFT's patch 1.5 is just on the horizon, and to prepare for the patch's release, Trion Worlds has introduced solo dungeons to the game's public test server. This instanced content, known as Chronicles of Telara, provides quick gameplay for players who are craving a little bit of dungeon-flavored action but who don't have the time to gather a group and trudge through the trials and tribulations of a five-man instance.

After the cut, we have a pair of videos showing off the Chronicles of Telara: Hammerknell solo instance. The first video, from ZAM's Nepabrite, takes players on a quick tour of the Dwarven fortress, complete with running commentary. The second video, from Torrac of the guild Result on the Immerwacht server, is devoid of any such commentary and simply allows players to follow along through the entirety of the instance. To feast your eyes upon both of the above, just slip on past the cut.

Continue reading Preview RIFT's Chronicles of Telara solo instance content on the PTS

MassivelyPreview RIFT's Chronicles of Telara solo instance content on the PTS originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chronicles-of-telarachronicles-of-telara-hammerknellpatch-1.5ptspublic-test-serverpveriftsolosolo-contentsolo-dungeonsolo-instancetriontrion-worldsThu, 01 Sep 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: This is only a test...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/wings-over-atreia-this-is-only-a-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/wings-over-atreia-this-is-only-a-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/wings-over-atreia-this-is-only-a-test/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BEEEEP! The message you are about to hear is from your local public test server. This is only a test. Had this been an actual server, your XP would have been sliced, your loot drops diced, and your AP slashed. In the event of an actual server, the message you would receive would assure you that your characters would be safe from wipes and safer from bugs and glitches. This is the Aion PTS. Remember, this is only a test... server. BEEEEP!

Public test servers. Just three small words. What thoughts and feelings do these words invoke in MMO gamers? Much like the words "open beta," PTS seems to represent more of a sneak-peek playground for upcoming gaming goodness instead of a place to test and tweak said upcoming features before they go live. Come on, let's admit it: In an age when the philosophy of instant gratification seduces new acolytes by the hour, who can truly deny that desire to see all that is new and shiny? Who doesn't want to take a stroll through new instances, test out new weapons, and try on new gear? New equals exciting. And we test-drive cars, so why not games? And if we test-drive games, then why not game patches?

With this in mind, I think it would not be far-fetched to believe that Daevas flocked to New Atreia (as I have dubbed it, seeing as this world certainly could not be confused with the Atreia I already know) when NCsoft opened Aion's test server to the public on May 12th. After all, many players are eagerly anticipating the features offered in the 2.5 patch. So in order to bring you a taste of what's to come, yours truly ventured forth onto the realm of the PTS. What I found was exciting, fun... and a bit surprising.

Vicariously live the crazy whirlwind life of a PTSian after the break.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: This is only a test...

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: This is only a test... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 May 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gamecharacter-creationcharacter-customizationdrop-ratesfeaturedinstanceslevelinglootlootingnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionptspublic-test-servertest-driveWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 23 May 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Sector 4 lives!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/wasteland-diaries-sector-4-lives/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/wasteland-diaries-sector-4-lives/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/wasteland-diaries-sector-4-lives/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

To many players of Fallen Earth, the expression "when hell freezes over" has been supplanted by "when Sector 4 is released." At launch, the sector was supposedly largely completed, and it was expected to be released shortly thereafter. After a year had passed and we were still waiting to see it, many players started to believe that it didn't even exist. Well, I am here to tell you that not only does it exist, but I spent a few hours roaming around on the other side of the big wall. Aside from some nice pictures, I got a little bit of insight on what we might expect to see in Alpha County, which will be the first installment in the fourth sector.

It's been quite some time since Fallen Earth's opening day, and we have been waiting quite some time for the new sector. But the team at Fallen Earth, LLC has given us a few things to tide us over: Deadfall and Terminal Woods, which combined have as much content as a full sector. So it's not like we've been stuck in Sector 3 for over a year and a half; the devs have given us some new stuff and made some fundamental changes to the game (some good and some bad, but mostly good). The first bit of S4 we will see was released on the public test server (PTS) earlier this week, so I took the opportunity to do some exploring for you (actually my motivations were entirely selfish). After the cut, I'll tell you a little bit about what I saw (slight spoiler alert!).

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Sector 4 lives!

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Sector 4 lives! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abbidonalpha-countyblockadecamp-saganconflict-townsdesolationend-runexpansionfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedfontaines-hermitageicarus-studioskelsons-havenlevel-caplevel-cap-increasemercynew-contentpost-88ptspublic-test-serverredemptionscorcher-basesector-4shackletonunspoiled-groveFri, 20 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: 2.5 -- Going live on 25!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/wings-over-atreia-2-5-going-live-on-25/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/wings-over-atreia-2-5-going-live-on-25/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/wings-over-atreia-2-5-going-live-on-25/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The wait is nearly over! Before long, we... oh... pardon me a moment while I grab the door...

Ah, it was just the grammar police. Yes, I know that technically it should be the 25th, but that really doesn't have the catchy ring to it. And who doesn't want a catchy title? Luckily, I was let off with just a warning this time. So back to our topic at hand!

This past week, before Aion's public test server reopened its doors to the masses, Massively had the opportunity to explore patch 2.5 right at NCsoft's PR offices in San Francisco (*cries for having moved to the East Coast*) -- diving into the new content, enjoying the graphical upgrades, and even asking a few questions about what's still to come.

Our very own Bree Royce donned some leather, grabbed a bow, and descended upon the new instances -- Esoterrace and Empyrean Crucible -- to get a taste and share some hints about these new fights. Catch a windstream past the break to check out her impressions as well as some other interesting tidbits about what is in store for Daevas in Aion's upcoming patch, Empyrean Calling.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: 2.5 -- Going live on 25!

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: 2.5 -- Going live on 25! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.52.5-patchabyss-pointsacademy-bootcampAdam-Christensenaionaion-gameAParakabossescharacter-customizationEmpyrean-Callingempyrean-crucibleesoterracefeaturedgraphical-upgradegraphical-upgradesinstancesloot-rightsnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionptsScott-HannusSean-Orlikowskiselling-loot-rightsWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 16 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Progress]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/wasteland-diaries-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/wasteland-diaries-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/wasteland-diaries-progress/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I had some spare time this week, so I went on the Fallen Earth public test server to check out some of the new stuff. Progress towns have made their debut, and so has a slew of new skills and abilities. Actually, saying that there are new skills and abilities is kind of an understatement. There is an entirely new skills-and-abilities system in place on the PTS. It is barely recognizable compared to what we have now. Yes, it's that different. Is this a good thing, or is it bad?

With Sector 4 looming on Fallen Earth's horizon, we are looking down the barrel of the gun of change. There are a lot of new things coming our way soon, most of which are closely guarded secrets. I did have an opportunity to see some of the new stuff we'll be seeing in the next patch, but I didn't get to peer behind the giant wall that keeps our prying clone eyes out of the next sector. If any of this stuff interests you, click past the cut and I'll go into a little more detail about it.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Progress

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Progress originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 May 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesapdirty-tricksescape-artistfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedheavy-weaponsicarus-studiosIlluminationpowerprecisionprogress-townsptssector-4skillstest-serverFri, 13 May 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT invites you to test the Spoils of War]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/rift-invites-you-to-test-the-spoils-of-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/rift-invites-you-to-test-the-spoils-of-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/rift-invites-you-to-test-the-spoils-of-war/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Many a RIFT fan has been looking forward to the changes coming to the fantasy MMO in the Update 1.2: Spoils of War. Thankfully, the witch Alsbeth has been defeated, but trouble continues on the planes of Telara. Regulos is still bent on destroying the world. So what's next? The developers of RIFT would like to give you an opportunity to see for yourself.

On the RIFT Facebook page, Community Manager Erick "Zann" Adams has invited players to join the devs in a Spoils of War PTS event.
Join us tonight, May 5th, starting at 3:00PM PDT (11:00PM BST) for a final round of testing. We'll have a battle royale around to word, check out the LFG system, and just have a good time playing together and discussing your feedback.
For those living on the east coast of the U.S., the event starts at 6 p.m. EDT this evening. For all the information on how to join the RIFT public test server, jump to the forums to get started.

MassivelyRIFT invites you to test the Spoils of War originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 May 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>erick-adamsin-game-eventpreviewPTSpublic-test-serverRIFTrift-planes-of-telaraspoils-of-wartestingTriontrion-worldsupdate-1.2zannThu, 05 May 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft aiming for Aion 2.5 test at the end of April]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/ncsoft-aiming-for-aion-2-5-test-at-the-end-of-april/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/ncsoft-aiming-for-aion-2-5-test-at-the-end-of-april/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/ncsoft-aiming-for-aion-2-5-test-at-the-end-of-april/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Aion's 2.5 update has been a long time coming. We first heard tell of the patch in early January and are happy to report that NCsoft is looking to take the wraps off the new content via the game's test servers in the next few weeks.

In a new interview at the official UK Aion website, producer Sean Neil and brand manager Dominic Wai take turns answering player-generated questions relating to the new patch, which Neil says should be "on our player test servers (PTS) at the end of April or beginning of May."

What, exactly, does 2.5 bring to the world of Atreia? Quite a lot, actually, and whether you're talking about the extensive graphical overhaul or the new Empyrean Crucible and Esoterrace dungeon instances, chances are there will be something interesting in the update for every daeva. Getting to endgame should be less of a chore as well, and while Aion still possesses one of the more daunting gear grinds in the genre, NCsoft is introducing a mentoring system in 2.5 that allows "new players [to] level up quicker with the help of a friend."

MassivelyNCsoft aiming for Aion 2.5 test at the end of April originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.5aionaion-2.5ap-grinddominic-waiempyrean-crucibleesoterracefantasygear-grindgraphical-updategraphicsgrindgrindyinterviewslevel-grindmentoring-systemncsoftpatchptssean-neiltest-serverupdatevision-trailerWed, 06 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Terminal Woods]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/wasteland-diaries-terminal-woods/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/wasteland-diaries-terminal-woods/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/wasteland-diaries-terminal-woods/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

To say that the Fallen Earth 1.8 patch is going to have some massive changes coming along with it might be a bit of an understatement. It's going to come fully equipped with major skills, abilities and mutations re-writes. Much will be changed. So much so, in fact, that I don't think anyone's quite sure what to expect, the devs included. The game will still be recognizable, but the flow of combat will be different. After more than a year of adjusting to the gradual changes that have been made to the game mechanics, I had settled into my comfort zone only to be ousted by significant changes.

It still remains to be seen whether Fallen Earth's new changes will be good or bad. Of course, "good" and "bad" are subjective terms, and one person's good might be another's bad. The great thing about major changes like these is this: We get to test them out before they go live. This latest round of testing on the PTS comes complete with new content, including an entirely new area called Terminal Woods, which looks to be about the same size as Deadfall. So it's not quite a sector, but it's pretty big. The devs have put a bit of this area up on the test server for us to "test." Test it I did... if by testing you mean "exploring and shooting at stuff." After the cut, I'll discuss some of the new stuff I found while I was "testing." Consider that a spoiler alert.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Terminal Woods

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Terminal Woods originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfefeaturedicarusicarus-studiospatchpatch-1.8previewptsscavenger-bossessector-4terminal-woodsupgradesFri, 25 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Hunting down AP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/wasteland-diaries-hunting-down-ap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/wasteland-diaries-hunting-down-ap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/wasteland-diaries-hunting-down-ap/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

So there's an AP cap in Fallen Earth now. When there was a finite number of AP available, it was not very popular. But now that there is an unlimited number of AP available (in theory), it seems a bit easier to digest. The current AP cap at level 50 is 1250. This allows for a decent build while not allowing for a jack-of-all-trades build. With the new system currently on the PTS, most builds will have to be specialized. In other words, there will be no more healers or crafters that will be able to dish out maximum DPS anymore.

Part of the purpose of the AP cap was to alleviate the need for a wheel-flip. In some ways, the de-factionalization of mutations has helped in that department. The entire Fallen Earth skill and mutation system is undergoing a revamp, but the AP mechanics aren't going to change much. The AP cap will still be in place and will increase by 25 every level. And there will still be random AP and repeatable missions for AP. But is a wheel-flip still necessary? The short answer is yes and no, but I'll delve into that a bit more after the cut.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Hunting down AP

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Hunting down AP originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.8-patchapap-capbous-apconflict-townsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedicarus-studiosmutationsnew-skillsomnibusptsrandom-apskillsstarter-townswheel-flipFri, 18 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth 1.8 patch on PTS, extensive ability changes incoming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/fallen-earth-1-8-patch-on-pts-extensive-ability-changes-incomin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/fallen-earth-1-8-patch-on-pts-extensive-ability-changes-incomin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/fallen-earth-1-8-patch-on-pts-extensive-ability-changes-incomin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Fallen Earth public test server (PTS) is the place to be for sneak peeks at upcoming content, and as of right now, said new content is the 1.8 patch. Icarus Studios' Carlin has posted the version notes on the Fallen Earth forums, and a quick glance at them indicates that 1.8 is quite the meaty update.

The biggest change is the forthcoming ability revamp. According to the notes, "almost all abilities have been changed, with the goal of increasing the number and viability of different player roles and play-styles. Some abilities have been removed, and some new abilities have been added." Patch 1.8 also introduces new NPCs and missions in various parts of the wasteland, UI tweaks (including new chat channels), and an adjustment to the rate at which random AP is gained.

If you've never tried the PTS on for size, you can download the client and also pay a visit to the forums to get your bearings.

MassivelyFallen Earth 1.8 patch on PTS, extensive ability changes incoming originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.81.8-patchAbilitiesAbility-revampApCarlinFallen-earthIcarusIcarus-studiosPatchPatch-notesPatchesPlayer-rolesPost-apocalypticPtsPublic-test-serverSci-fiTest-serverWastelandFri, 18 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: New skills]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/wasteland-diaries-new-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/wasteland-diaries-new-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/wasteland-diaries-new-skills/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Clones of the wasteland: We are heading toward uncertain times. The February State of the Game was announced last week, and there are some massive changes to Fallen Earth coming our way. The 1.4 patch changed the way we fought, and so did the 1.7 patch. This next patch, which will likely be 1.8 (if not 2.0), will probably be the biggest change to the game mechanics since launch (and 1.4 was no slouch). The uncertainty will not be allayed until we see the new system on the PTS. It's slated to hit the test server in "the middle of the month," so we may see it soon.

In this post, I would like to analyze the SoTG and try to infer what kind of implications this new system will bring forth. There will be some pretty obvious changes but also some subtle changes that nobody will foresee. Although the new skills and mutations system isn't the only thing coming with the next installment, it will be the focus of this post. There is also a new area called Ruination on the way plus major economy changes and scavenger bosses, but I am more interested in the skill revamp. Fallen Earth will be a different (hopefully in a good way) game by the end of the month.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: New skills

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: New skills originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatcombat-changescombat-systemfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedicarusicarus-studiosnew-skillspatchptsskill-changesskillsState-of-the-gameFri, 11 Feb 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Tester-day]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/wasteland-diaries-tester-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/wasteland-diaries-tester-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/wasteland-diaries-tester-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I spent an entire day on the Fallen Earth Public Test Server (PTS). I have to admit, I was pretty impressed with what I saw. The development team over at Fallen Earth, LLC is making some sweeping changes to the game. I wasn't just impressed by the new artwork and the smoother game mechanics; I was also impressed with the amount of communication the Fallen Earth dev team is giving to its testers. And why not? We pay the devs to test their product.

While there is a lot of new stuff to check out, I spent the majority of a day trying to digest as much of this new content as I possibly could, and I didn't really even scratch the surface. I spent a good eight hours on the server, though about four of those hours were devoted to testing the combat system. I did a few bug reports, but aside from grenades being totally broken, most everything seemed to be in order. After the break I'll give you some first-hand accounts of what I've discovered. You could just read the patch notes, but it just isn't the same.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Tester-day

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Tester-day originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apap-capboneclawcombatcombat-changeseconomyfaction-control-pointsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfcpfefeaturedicarusicarus-studiospatchptspublic-test-servertesttest-serverFri, 03 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: Hands-on with Thanquol's Incursion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/23/waging-war-hands-on-with-thanquols-incursion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/23/waging-war-hands-on-with-thanquols-incursion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/23/waging-war-hands-on-with-thanquols-incursion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

This week, Waging WAR brings you Greg's hands-on impressions of the new RvR 24v24 instanced dungeon coming soon to Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. With true grit, determination, a staff, sequined robe and his trusty wizard hat, Greg brushes the dust off of his Archmage skills and reviews Thanquol's Incursion.

I was able to put together everything needed on Wednesday evening, so setting up for Friday afternoon's scheduled test of Thanquol's Incursion didn't take long at all. I didn't want to get tied up in learning a new career along with testing completely new content, so I decided to stick with what I know best and roll my Archmage on the PTS. Luckily, I tend to go light in the add-on department, so after getting my keybindings ready and scattering my UI all over the screen in my own (olympically) special way, I flew to Praag and found a warband in no time flat. Friday's event started up right on time, and the testing was under way. The warband headed out to one of the various instance gates and we zoned in.

Follow along after the break as I discuss my first-time hands-on experience with the new RvR gated 24v24 instanced dungeon: Thanquol's Incursion.

Continue reading Waging WAR: Hands-on with Thanquol's Incursion

MassivelyWaging WAR: Hands-on with Thanquol's Incursion originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archmageBioWarebioware-eaBioware-MMObioware-mythicboneripperchosencloud-of-corruptionEAea-biowareea-bioware-mythicea-gamesea-mythicfeaturedmantrapmythicmythic-eaMythic-Entertainmentpatch-1.4ptsQuakerat-ogrerr100rvrrvr-packskavenskaven-dungeonskeetkslayerthanquolthanquols-incursionthrotthrot-the-uncleanttkunderempirewaging-warwarwarhammer-eaWarhammer-OnlineWarhammer-Online-Age-of-Reckoningwarhammer-online-eawarlock-engineerSat, 23 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: What's next?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/wasteland-diaries-whats-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/wasteland-diaries-whats-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/wasteland-diaries-whats-next/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

There isn't yet a known release date for the next Fallen Earth patch. The 1.7.1 patch will make some fundamental changes to the combat system. These changes will be far-reaching, but they will not alter gameplay drastically. Mainly, we will see an increase in damage dealt across the board. This will make combat in Fallen Earth seem a bit more dangerous than it is now. PvE just doesn't quicken my pulse like it did when I was a new player in Sector 1. The patch will also address this. It will also add the faction control points.

The main focus of the patch is the combat re-vamp and the control points. The Armor Use skill and the Dodge skill have been redesigned, and the way that damage mitigation works is a bit different in version 1.7.1. The faction control points will give the clones a reason to fight, and the victorious faction will reap far-reaching rewards. I'll go into more detail about these tidbits and more after the break, so without any further ado, let's move on.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: What's next?

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: What's next? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armor-usecombatcombat-changesdodgefactionfaction-control-pointsfactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfefeaturedicarusicarus-studiospatchptstest-serverFri, 15 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Form and function in Fallen Earth's latest state of the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/form-and-function-in-fallen-earths-latest-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/form-and-function-in-fallen-earths-latest-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/form-and-function-in-fallen-earths-latest-state-of-the-game/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There's been a lot of excitement in the Fallen Earth community over the upcoming combat changes, and in producer Dave "Archangel" Haydysch's latest state of the game address, he assures everyone that the anticipation is worth it. "As I mentioned," Haydysch writes, "this is the FIRST iteration... we will use your feedback to make further adjustments and improvements to the system until we feel the system is ready to go live."

He urges players to participate on the public test server, where numerous systems are being tested, including these combat upgrades and the upcoming Faction Control Points, which should add spice to the PvP play in the game.

Looking at future patches, Haydysch reports that the team will be revamping combat skills and mutations relating to each of Fallen Earth's six factions. The team is also working hard on bringing additional visual improvements to the wasteland, which "will improve the look and feel of the world as a whole." These improvements are scheduled to hit the game at the same time as the next live event, which is so far a mysterious mystery shrouded in mysteriousness.

Finally, Haydysch acknowledges additional selections will become available in the Rewards Store, including (drum roll please) more space for inventory-starved adventurers. You can read the full state of the game report over at Fallen Earth.

MassivelyForm and function in Fallen Earth's latest state of the game originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combat-improvementscombat-upgradedave-haydyschfaction-control-pointsfactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcicarus-studiosinventorylock-and-loadone-weapon-is-the-lonliest-numberptsrewards-storetest-serverThu, 14 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Combat overhaul]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/wasteland-diaries-combat-overhaul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/wasteland-diaries-combat-overhaul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/wasteland-diaries-combat-overhaul/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Merging a roleplaying game (RPG) and a first-person shooter/third-person shooter FPS/TPS seamlessly can be difficult to say the least. I can only think of a few examples of games that have been done well in this manner. But none of the examples I can think of is an MMO. Granted I haven't played every game in existence, so this is by no means a definitive assertion. I'll call Fallen Earth an MMO/FPS in this post, for the sake of simplicity, even though it's an MMORPGFPS/TPS, but that's a mouthful and it looks like something an Enigma machine spit out.

The Fallen Earth combat system is a mix of two very different game types: an MMORPG and a shooter. Some of my detractors insist that Fallen Earth is an MMORPG with "manual targeting," but I respectfully disagree and consider it as much of a shooter as games that run on the Quake 3 engine. Just because it doesn't have "bullet-drop" physics doesn't mean it's not a shooter. There is a combat revamp headed our way this month, so I thought I would do an in-depth analysis of the FE combat system. After the break I intend to pop the hood on the combat system and take a close look at its mechanics, then try to surmise what changes might be incoming (even though I've seen some of them).

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Combat overhaul

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Combat overhaul originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatcombat-systemfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedicarusicarus-studiospatchpatch-1.7ptspvepvpSandboxtest-serverFri, 08 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion's Assault on Balaurea expansion live on PTS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/aions-assault-on-balaurea-expansion-live-on-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/aions-assault-on-balaurea-expansion-live-on-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/aions-assault-on-balaurea-expansion-live-on-pts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Ready to get a preview of Aion's forthcoming Assault on Balaurea expansion? You're in luck, as today finds the new content live on the Public Test Server, a couple weeks ahead of its September 7th release date. Pre-existing PTS players will find that their characters have been wiped, which is a small price to pay for the chance to test the new content with accelerated XP and loot drop rates.

Assault on Balaurea features a new pet system as well as new zones, instances, quests, and a level cap increase. Check out the official press release for more information, including how to install and run the PTS client.

MassivelyAion's Assault on Balaurea expansion live on PTS originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-assault-on-balaureaaion-expansionaion-the-tower-of-eternityassault-on-balaureaexpansionncsoftnew-questsnew-zonespet-systempetsptspublic-test-serverWed, 18 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion's Assault on Balaurea expansion coming to public test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/09/aions-assault-on-balauria-expansion-coming-to-public-test-serve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/09/aions-assault-on-balauria-expansion-coming-to-public-test-serve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/09/aions-assault-on-balauria-expansion-coming-to-public-test-serve/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

OK, Aion public test server (PTS) fans: would you like the good news first or the bad news? Never mind, here's the bad news: the PTS has been brought down and its database wiped (i.e., your characters and legions are now digital rubble under the NCsoft wrecking ball).

The good news is that all of the destruction, terror, and mayhem is in service to the forthcoming Assault on Balaurea expansion and its eminent appearance on the testing shard. Beginning on August 18th, you can be among the first to experience the new content, in addition to sampling it with the significant XP and drop-rate boosts exclusive to the PTS. The expansion hits the live servers on September 7th, so be sure and read up on how to access the PTS client if you'd like an early start.

MassivelyAion's Assault on Balaurea expansion coming to public test server originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-the-tower-of-eternityassault-on-balaureacharacter-wipeexpansionncsoftptspublic-test-servertest-serverxp-boostMon, 09 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: New paint job]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/wasteland-diaries-new-paint-job/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/wasteland-diaries-new-paint-job/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/wasteland-diaries-new-paint-job/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Fallen Earth 1.6 patch is a couple days old now, and I've had a chance to check out some of its features. I've painted more vehicles than Earl Scheib this week. I was able to test the respec injectors on the Public Test Server (PTS). I haven't tried them on the live server yet, but I have a few misallocated points that aren't serving much of a purpose. I was able to run through the new, extended tutorial with a brand-new clone. And the Fallen Earth team has given us the ability to flag ourselves for PvP anywhere, anytime. This should prove interesting.

If you have been waiting on the sidelines for the next patch or are wondering what new things are in store for us, I will give you a breakdown of the new stuff I have been able to check out myself after the cut. The patch is only a few days old, but I have been trying to experience the new features to the fullest in that short time.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: New paint job

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: New paint job originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedicarus-studiosmonkey-townmount-paintpaintpaint-kitpatchpatch-notesptspublic-test-serverpvppvp-flaggingrespecspeed-boosttutorialvehiclevehicle-paintvehicle-speed-boostwastelandwasteland-diariesFri, 30 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II readies Freya update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/23/lineage-ii-readies-freya-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/23/lineage-ii-readies-freya-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/23/lineage-ii-readies-freya-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


NCsoft's Aion and City of Heroes may get more press here in the States, but the workhorse of the Korean MMORPG maker's worldwide stable continues to be Lineage II. The long-running fantasy title is gearing up for yet another substantial update, with the much-anticipated Freya patch scheduled to hit the public test server on July 29th.

Lineage II's updates have always been rather meaty (and free of charge, provided you have an active subscription) and Freya is no different. Included in the patch is everything from new weapons, armor, and abilities to entirely new overland and dungeon areas. Small touches aren't left out either, with new social emotes -- including partner dances -- scheduled for inclusion, as well as reduced teleportation fees and an increase in available quest journal space.

The patch notes have yet to be released, but you can get a sneak peek at the projected additions on the Freya wiki page. Additionally, mark your calendar for the Freya reveal festivities and don't forget to read the official press release. Finally, check out some of the new armors after the cut.

[Thanks Justin!]

Continue reading Lineage II readies Freya update

MassivelyLineage II readies Freya update originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armorchroniclefreyalineage-2lineage-iimoviencsoftnew-contentpatchptspts-fun-schedulepublic-test-servertrailervideoweaponsFri, 23 Jul 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth pushes fast travel, Serendipity to PTS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/fallen-earth-pushes-fast-travel-serendipity-to-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/fallen-earth-pushes-fast-travel-serendipity-to-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/02/fallen-earth-pushes-fast-travel-serendipity-to-pts/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fallen Earth's public test server (PTS) has some new content for intrepid wasteland bug-hunters. The updates take the form of fast travel, Blood Sports Assault, and a new system called Serendipity.

Serendipity is designed to add a bit more variety to the game's PvE and loot tables. It will be "introducing rare spawns throughout the world. Upon their demise you will have the chance to receive new gear never seen in the game before, so be on the lookout -- you don't know what you will find," says producer Dave Haydysch.

The fast travel is pretty self-explanatory, while Assault is a new Blood Sport PvP game type that features two teams of up to eight players as well as attack and defense objectives.

Check out the full press release over at the official website.

MassivelyFallen Earth pushes fast travel, Serendipity to PTS originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-sportsblood-sports-assaultfallen-earthfast-travelptsserendipitytest-servertestingWed, 02 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion test servers to open for NA and EU]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/22/aion-test-servers-to-open-for-na-and-eu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/22/aion-test-servers-to-open-for-na-and-eu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/22/aion-test-servers-to-open-for-na-and-eu/#commentsFiled under: ,

This is a test of upcoming content, this is only a test... server, that is. Aion's quality assurance team is proud to announce a pair of bug-stomping, issue-resolving, feedback-spurring test servers -- one for North America and one for Europe. These servers are primed to open on April 29, so that players can preview patches and engage in some winged QA.

Aion testers won't be given a fancy pre-made character, but instead will see a MMO in fast-forward: XP, Abyss Points and drop rates will be jacked through the roof to allow for rapid progress (in the name of testing, of course). The Aion team specifically notes that any test server characters won't be included against character limits.

As public test servers (PTS) are always a great way for studios to involve the playerbase in making the game better, Aion subscribers should be happy to be included in the process. You can read the entire announcement over on the Aion forums.

[Thanks Nick!]

MassivelyAion test servers to open for NA and EU originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aioneunancsoftptspublic-test-servertest-serverThu, 22 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO releases new PTS and preliminary Book 7 patch notes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/lotro-releases-new-pts-and-preliminary-book-7-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/lotro-releases-new-pts-and-preliminary-book-7-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/lotro-releases-new-pts-and-preliminary-book-7-patch-notes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Turbine has just announced a brand new public test server for Lord of the Rings Online called Bullroarer. This test server will allow plays to experience content before it is ready to go live, allowing the players to help test the content and give their feedback. You will need to download Bullroarer separately from the live game client, and you must have an active LotRO account.

What's even more exciting about this announcement is the fact that the newest content update, Book 7, is live on Bullroarer right now for players to explore! Since this is a test server, it will incorporate a copy from a live server. Right now that first server is Elendilmir, but anyone is invited to create a character and experience the new content. Turbine says they will soon enable the Eyes and Guard Inn in-game to allow anyone to boost their characters up to max level and experience everything. Check out the current Book 7 patch notes (that are subject to change before going live) and count on Massively for much more coverage of Book 7 as it nears live release.

MassivelyLotRO releases new PTS and preliminary Book 7 patch notes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsbullroarerlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromoria-book-7patch-notesptstest-serverturbineFri, 27 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TR's Mechs have arrived on PTS with Deployment 16]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/trs-mechs-have-arrived-on-pts-with-deployment-16/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/trs-mechs-have-arrived-on-pts-with-deployment-16/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/trs-mechs-have-arrived-on-pts-with-deployment-16/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Tabula Rasa's Public Test Server just received a brand new shipment of Mechs, and the AFS recruits are pumped! With the highly-anticipated Deployment 16 hitting the PTS last night, Personal Armor Units are finally here. The CELLAR Arena and the Edmund Range Training Grounds have both been expanded to accommodate the Mechs, as well as some newly available combat technology installed.

This patch also brought about some other goodies, including three new armor sets with level 50 stats that can be worn by any level, new pets, new emote items, hyper-EXP tokens and probably the coolest thing of all time: 40 unique weapons named after some of the game's most involved players. Look for a post later today regarding more on that. In the meantime, if you don't already have the PTS installed, check it out for these latest changes to the game before they go live.

MassivelyTR's Mechs have arrived on PTS with Deployment 16 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsmechspatchpauptspublic-test-servertabula-rasatrtr-deployment-16updateThu, 29 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deployment 10.6 now on Tabula Rasa public test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/deployment-10-6-now-on-tabula-rasa-public-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/deployment-10-6-now-on-tabula-rasa-public-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/22/deployment-10-6-now-on-tabula-rasa-public-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tabula Rasa's Public Test Server has now been fitted with Deployment 10.6. The main feature of this update is a change to Grey Market Vendor items -- their cost has been increased by 500%. The developers felt that the power of the Grey Market Vendor weapons was not proportional to their price, hence the rather drastic increase. They have left Control Point vendor items alone, but they will continue to monitor the equipment situation to make certain that crafted items are better than those bought from NPCs.

if you want to get involved with the testing on TR's PTS, you can visit this guide at the official site to get started.

MassivelyDeployment 10.6 now on Tabula Rasa public test server originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>control-point-vendordeployment-10.6grey-marketgrey-market-vendorncsoftptspublic-test-serverrgtrtabula-rasatrTue, 22 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TR patch 1.8 on test later today, get leveled to 30]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/tr-patch-1-8-on-test-later-today-get-leveled-to-30/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/tr-patch-1-8-on-test-later-today-get-leveled-to-30/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/tr-patch-1-8-on-test-later-today-get-leveled-to-30/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

We're excited to report that Tabula Rasa's patch 1.8 will be on test some time today. Among the changes, and this time it appears there's a real smattering of different stuff, is a new target lock-on system that allows you to set both friendly and and hostile target locks. Also, this blogger is excited about the changes to the Demolitionist class, which could finally prompt him to get that Sapper over the hump from level 28 to 30. We don't have full patch notes at the time of posting, because the patch isn't up yet, but we'll update with further details as they become available.

And as an added bonus, Harley Quin will be hanging around Alia Das, just like with patch 1.7, to level players to 30 so they can test out the changes that are only available at a higher level. According to CuppaJo, they're looking to make this process automatic in the near-future, but for the time being this is how it'll work. This service is only available today and tomorrow, so make sure to get on sometime soon if you want to give the new patch a full look and you don't already have a character on Orion, which is the server being copied over this patch.

MassivelyTR patch 1.8 on test later today, get leveled to 30 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 May 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demolitionistharley-quinorionptstabula-rasatargetingtr-patch-1.7tr-patch-1.8Tue, 06 May 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Curing Tabula Rasa's aggro problems]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/curing-tabula-rasas-aggro-problems/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/curing-tabula-rasas-aggro-problems/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/curing-tabula-rasas-aggro-problems/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Over the weekend, we took up developer Kagasumi's call to try out Tabula Rasa's new patch 1.7, and the enhanced, killer AI that came along with it. You can read our impressions of the change here, but the short version is that the wider aggro sharing on test takes away all the strategy and decision-making of combat and replaces it with an unsurvivable zergfest.

While we assumed the only choices were between a smaller or wider aggro sharing radius, Planet TR poster Line has written up a pretty thorough post exploring another possibility. It doesn't make sense, Line says, for enemies to be able to locate a player the instant he gains aggro of one enemy within a certain radius. Enemies should at least have to use an ability (which could be stopped by the player) to draw the attention of nearby allies, and that attention should be drawn to the threat's point of origin, not the player. What Line is describing, in essence, is the sort of AI routine more commonly seen in the shooter genre.

Is it feasible to see this sort of code-heavy change this far into release? Maybe, maybe not. We do know it'd make the game considerably more engaging. And it'd be better than being zerged.

MassivelyCuring Tabula Rasa's aggro problems originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aggro-sharingdestination-gameslineplanet-trptstabula-rasatrtr-patch-1.7zergfestTue, 15 Apr 2008 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[New TR patch bringing the goods on test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/new-tr-patch-bringing-the-goods-on-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/new-tr-patch-bringing-the-goods-on-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/new-tr-patch-bringing-the-goods-on-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Word on the street is that Tabula Rasa's patch 1.7 should be hitting the public test servers as we speak. As you probably already well know because you follow our coverage religiously (right!?), patch 1.7 should herald in some hefty changes to the Spy and Ranger classes. We've been hearing good things about Fire Support, the new skill replacing Reinforcements. Evidently, these spawnable AI allies for Rangers actually have the capacity to kill enemies now! What a pleasant surprise.

An even better surprise is that, perhaps hearing our prayers, dev team member Harleyquin will be on the test server all day at Alia Das, leveling players to 30 so they can test out the new class changes. This is an extraordinary boon to the player base, because their existing testing procedures only allowed players with characters on a given server (and it's Centaurus this time around) to run through the changes and report feedback. It's certainly not a long-term solution, but it shows that they've been listening. So make sure to go poke Harley if you've got the time to log on.

For the full patch notes, check after the jump.

Continue reading New TR patch bringing the goods on test server

MassivelyNew TR patch bringing the goods on test server originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdestination-gamesptspublic-test-servertabula-rasatesting-proceduretrtr-patch-1.7Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa's testing procedure needs a revamp]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/05/tabula-rasas-testing-procedure-needs-a-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/05/tabula-rasas-testing-procedure-needs-a-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/05/tabula-rasas-testing-procedure-needs-a-revamp/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


With the recent announcement that, once again, our favorite servers weren't going to be part of the testing process (no offense Centaurus) for Tabula Rasa's new patch 1.7, we're reminded of how horrible this system has proved to be over the last several months. For the uninitiated, the TR development team generally chooses only one of the game's four servers to copy over to the test server. If your server is picked for that patch, all of your characters are copied over and you can log in and test things out a couple weeks before the patch goes live. If yours doesn't get picked, you're stuck rolling a new character from scratch.

There are several problems with this. For one, the active hardcore fan base (that is, the kind of people who would actually log into a test server to report bugs and forgo any progression on their actual character) is precipitously small to begin with. So when they take this active player base and divide them by four to test new patches, everybody loses. Only a fraction of the community leaders get to contribute input to class changes, patches don't get as thoroughly tested as they might be if the full community was brought to bear, and poor writers like those at Massively only get to cover patch changes in earnest when their servers are chosen.

Is it really too much to ask to be able to copy a character to test on demand? Let your hardcore fans do your work for you!

MassivelyTabula Rasa's testing procedure needs a revamp originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communitydestination-gamesptspublic-test-servertabula-rasatrtr-patch-1.7Sat, 05 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa patch 1.6, take two!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/tabula-rasa-patch-1-6-take-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/tabula-rasa-patch-1-6-take-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/tabula-rasa-patch-1-6-take-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Tabula Rasa players have had some reasons to complain recently. As we reported a few weeks ago, the Tabula Rasa team pushed out patch 1.5 without giving it enough time to sizzle on the test server, and the result was a PR headache that was only resolved in ensuing days when they were able to throw some hotfixes together to address the game-breaking bugs. As exemplified by the recent patch to the build on the public test server, they're actually looking to take in player feedback this time around, and the result is a much happier community and a much more refined build altogether.

The new patch, which went live on the PTS on Tuesday, put into effect the changes to the Torqueshell rifle that Critters mentioned last week. It also addressed a number of other bugs, like RPG damage not being affected by item rarity in addition to adding some tweaks to Necromites. One unforeseen change was a dramatic increase in the number of CP capture tokens required for a respec. Players had been complaining that the relatively low cost of the respec token, originally at 100, trivialized the process and made it too easy to shift between builds. In response, their cost has been upped to 600, which should make them a more substantial item. We'll see how it turns out.

MassivelyTabula Rasa patch 1.6, take two! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamespatch-1.5patch-1.6ptsrespecrespec-tokentabula-rasatrThu, 20 Mar 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TR's patch 1.6, why play when you can wait?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/16/trs-patch-1-6-why-play-when-you-can-wait/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/16/trs-patch-1-6-why-play-when-you-can-wait/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/16/trs-patch-1-6-why-play-when-you-can-wait/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


MMO players, of which I count myself a part, are an interesting folk. While we profess to play our games of choice out of the pursuit of fun, many of us scarcely hesitate to flagellate ourselves (figuratively, I hope) for some new piece of gear, or stay up far later than good sense would have dictated to finish a raid, or stop playing our game of choice altogether because some hot new patch is coming down the pipeline that will change the way we play.

I can now count myself in that last category, as the word that patch 1.6 was going to render profound changes on Tabula Rasa's experience modifier system has caused me to seize up and stop playing the game altogether. Perhaps it's a bit misguided to just forfeit playing the game on account of a patch with no concrete deadline, but then, who wants to spend all that time fighting enemies and grinding mobs with a paltry x2.5 experience modifier when the patch is going to be bringing down x6 multipliers with 30-minute boosters that bump it up an additional 50%? Setting aside simple quest experience, you could be looking at a whopping three times the experience gain pre-patch! Who wants to grind now when that's coming down the pipes? Not me, that's for sure.

MassivelyTR's patch 1.6, why play when you can wait? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Mar 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boosterdestination-gamesexperienceexperience-modifiermultiplierpatch-1.6PTStabula-rasatrSun, 16 Mar 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TR Sniper problems addressed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/tr-sniper-problems-addressed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/tr-sniper-problems-addressed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/tr-sniper-problems-addressed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Critters and the TR dev team have used this week's Feedback Friday to address the recent uproar that's risen up over the change to the Torqueshell rifles in patch 1.6. In line with our hopes, it seems like the development team has seen the light, and has decided to cede a little room to player feedback. They're working on another build for the test server that will change the nerf in Torqueshell damage from the 55% wollop that it was originally down to only about 75% of the pre-patch damage. With the increased rate of fire from the change in the shooting mechanic, this comes out to a far more favorable DPS number in the end.

Critters goes on to explain how the development team's vision for the Torqueshell weapon and the Sniper class is one where players really have to know their class and have all their buffs and abilities in order to be able to achieve the one-shot one-kill scenarios that most Snipers have been clamoring for. The increased speed of attack also means that players will have more maneuverability and capacity to adapt during battle, instead of standing static waiting for their shot to go off.

MassivelyTR Sniper problems addressed originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crittersfeedback-fridaypatch-1.6ptssnipersniperstabula-rasatorqueshell-rifletrFri, 14 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa's PAUs make appearance on PTS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/tabula-rasas-paus-make-appearance-on-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/tabula-rasas-paus-make-appearance-on-pts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/tabula-rasas-paus-make-appearance-on-pts/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Personal Armor Units, or PAUs, are one of the most highly anticipated features coming down the track for Tabula Rasa. In lieu of a mount, Destination Games is looking to give higher level players a boost in prestige by letting them tramp around and scare the newbies in giant mechanical robots. Most players have already grown accustomed to the intimidating AFS mechs, but one imagines that actually being able to pilot a similar hulking death machine will be a new and exciting experience.

As it turns out, a PAU is making an appearance in patch 1.6, in unassembled form in a garage in Foreas Base. From what we can tell, it looks to be a Grendel, the Grenadier-class PAU that is one of the few to have actually been fleshed out by the devs so far. If you check out the video we've made of the new mechanized monster after the jump, two uniformed ladies appear to be conversing in front of the half-unpacked crate, but some sort of bug is speeding their dialog along at such a clip that all we can do is pick out random words like "coolant," "duct tape," and "human flesh." PAUs powered by human flesh? Confirmed.

Continue reading Tabula Rasa's PAUs make appearance on PTS

MassivelyTabula Rasa's PAUs make appearance on PTS originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingforeas-basegrenadierpatch-1.6paupersonal-armor-unitptstabula-rasatrunassembledFri, 14 Mar 2008 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TR's Sniper class targeted for nerf]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/trs-sniper-class-targeted-for-nerf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/trs-sniper-class-targeted-for-nerf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/trs-sniper-class-targeted-for-nerf/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


With patch 1.6 having sunk in a little bit over the weekend, ardent Tabula Rasa players are starting to emerge with some feedback from the new build on test. While the changes to experience modifiers were a welcome change for many people stuck in the pre-30 or pre-50 doldrums, one group we weren't expecting to hear griping were Snipers. We had been told that the Destination Games crew were working on the line of sight problems that had been largely hindering their long-distance damage, and the patch notes mentioned reworking their oft-bemoaned charge-up firing mechanic.

According to a number of players on Planet TR's Sniper forum, while Torqueshell rifles, the Snipers' tier-4 class-defining weapon, have seen a modest 25% increase in their rate of fire with the firing mechanic change, they've also experienced a massive 55% single-shot damage reduction as well. This coming at the same time when most other weapons experienced modest damage increases, usually around 17%. The sad consequence is that many Snipers will end up shirking their Torqueshell rifles for regular rifles or chainguns to maximize their damage, effectively making them a squishy Commando-wannabe. It's not too late though - this is why things go on test, so they can be fixed? Right? Right?

MassivelyTR's Sniper class targeted for nerf originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesnerfpatch-1.6ptssniperstabula-rasatesttorqueshell-riflestrMon, 10 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Experience buffs planned for TR patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/experience-buffs-planned-for-tr-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/experience-buffs-planned-for-tr-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/experience-buffs-planned-for-tr-patch/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Another Friday, another Feedback Friday brought to you by the folks responsible for Tabula Rasa. Critters and crew have come out swinging this week with a genuinely bitching preview of some of the changes we can expect to see in patch 1.6. Chief among those is a change to the experience modifier that will see the maximum modifier go up in a tiered manner based on level. The maximum multiplier in the game now is set at 250% of the base experience, but with the patch it will go as high as 6x base experience at the highest levels. Players will also get significant experience boosts based on group size.

In addition, they'll be offering an item to boost experience gain by 50% (stackable with the multiplier and group XP buffs) as part of the cache of items that you can buy by accumulating Global CP tokens. They will join the respecs we've mentioned previously along with a stock of other goodies to choose from like the old-fashioned weapon modifiers. With all these buffs to experience gain, it looks as though getting to level 50 in Tabula Rasa may change from the near-impossible test of patience and stamina to something a lot more amenable. We'll have to see for ourselves when patch 1.6 hits the PTS.

MassivelyExperience buffs planned for TR patch originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Mar 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crittersexperiencefeedback-fridayglobal-cp-tokensmodifiermultiplierpatch-1.6ptstabula-rasatrxpFri, 07 Mar 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[AFS mechs' new animations show their mettle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/afs-mechs-new-animations-show-their-mettle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/afs-mechs-new-animations-show-their-mettle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/22/afs-mechs-new-animations-show-their-mettle/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



As is usually the case, there were a lot of things that we wanted the Destination Games team to put into Tabula Rasa's patch 1.5 that we don't see in the build on the PTS. The opacity of the development process usually has that effect. But one of the nice benefits of our ignorance is that we are often quite pleasantly surprised by the unexpected things that we find every time a new build shows up on our a desktop. One of the things that eluded as when the patch notes were posted yesterday, but which delighted us when shown in motion is the new attacks and animations for the mechs that patrol the heavier AFS bases.

One player who goes by the name of Flashburn on the Planet TR forums was courteous enough to record these new animations for our viewing pleasure. Notice the way the mech raps on his head to unjam the rockets. It's subtle, but worthy of a chuckle. And who can't be at least slightly awed by that new jumping attack? Are these new animations in some a way preview for what's ahead with the long-promised personal armored units? We can only speculate at this point, but we're suddenly excited about the prospect all over again. We'll have more on the new build as we explore it.

MassivelyAFS mechs' new animations show their mettle originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationsdestination-gamesflashburnmechspatch-1.5paupausplanet-trptsrobotstabula-rasatrFri, 22 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST