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[New Pathfinder dev blog talks contract, questing mechanics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/new-pathfinder-dev-blog-talks-contract-questing-mechanics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/new-pathfinder-dev-blog-talks-contract-questing-mechanics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/new-pathfinder-dev-blog-talks-contract-questing-mechanics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Pathfinder Online - This guy broke his contract
The latest Pathfinder Online dev blog is all about contracts. It's also about 20,000 pages long, so reading it starts to feel like reading a real contract after about the 10,000 page mark. OK, it's not all that bad. Heck it's actually pretty interesting stuff, since most MMOs these days go out of their way to segregate players from each other and from decisions that have lasting gameplay implications.

Not so in Pathfinder, thanks to its contract mechanics, which Ryan Dancey says are like "a questing system hidden in plain sight." While some of what you'll read in this particular blog is theoretical (and as such, it carries the standard subject-to-change disclaimers), the system as it stands right now is broken down into four in-game tools: escrow, reputation, alignment, and the law.

Contracts themselves are sub-divided into assassination, auction, bounty, guard, loan, purchase, sale, and transportation flavors. It sounds somewhat complex, but there's definitely a method to Goblinworks' madness. "Ideally, most of the commercial, diplomatic, and adventuring activities in the game will develop through player-to-player contracting," Dancey writes. "If somebody offers you a reward for bringing them 10 rat tails, it will be because another player needs 10 rat tails for some reason, not just because an NPC has an exclamation point bobbing over his head."

MassivelyNew Pathfinder dev blog talks contract, questing mechanics originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contractsfantasygoblinworkspathfinderpathfinder-contractspathfinder-onlinepnpquestingryan-danceysandboxsandparkWed, 23 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Discussing the design of quests in The Elder Scrolls Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/discussing-the-design-of-quests-in-the-elder-scrolls-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/discussing-the-design-of-quests-in-the-elder-scrolls-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/discussing-the-design-of-quests-in-the-elder-scrolls-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Instead of wiping out these skeletons and the dread necromancer animating them, let's go back to the village and wipe out the villagers. Less complaining.
The Elder Scrolls Online has certain player expectations going in, such as an expectation of the sort of quest structure you usually find in the series. More specifically, it's the sort of structure in which you start off on some simple quest and wind up wandering off into some completely unrelated point of interest. A recent interview with creative director Paul Sage and lead content designer Rich Lambert reveals that the team is aiming for just that sort of model in the game.

As Lambert explains, the team wants to move away from the usual hub design in favor of several points of interest, each of which provides a little snippet of content and story. The points aren't meant to be structured as an A-to-B affair; instead, you have several points of interest in a given region which build into a large overarching story. Take a look at the full interview for more information about how quests will work in the game and how players will be guided through objectives as they play.

MassivelyDiscussing the design of quests in The Elder Scrolls Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksbethsoftdaggerfallelder-scrollselder-scrolls-onlinefactionsgame-designgame-mechanicsmorrowindoblivionplease-dont-suckpoints-of-interestpvpquest-mechanicsquestingquestsrvrsandboxskyrimtamrieltestesothe-elder-scrollsthe-elder-scrolls-onlinethree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvpvideovideoszenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlinezenimax-online-studiosWed, 23 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Is LotRO's questing system over the hill?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-road-to-mordor-is-lotros-questing-system-over-the-hill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-road-to-mordor-is-lotros-questing-system-over-the-hill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-road-to-mordor-is-lotros-questing-system-over-the-hill/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
There's a good chance you're not reading this column right now but instead are fully immersed in the weekend beta for Guild Wars 2: Guild Harder. That's OK. I won't hold it against you -- I may even be playing it as well. Oh, those ArenaNet folks. They make such lofty promises, don't they? They're going to rewrite MMOs as we know them and show us once and for all that we've been playing with Tinker Toys when we could have fully functional jetpacks and whatnot.

I don't harbor any ill will against Guild Wars 2; in fact, I'm quite looking forward to it. But as everyone's focused on the game's excising of traditional questing as popularized by World of Warcraft, I thought it would be worth examining just how dated Lord of the Rings Online's questing system has become, if at all.

In an era of dynamic events, public quests, full voice-over, and other techniques designed to get us away from the text box questing model, will LotRO hold its ground against these fads or is it truly becoming a relic of the past? Let's dig in!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Is LotRO's questing system over the hill?

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Is LotRO's questing system over the hill? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmenteaelectronic-artsepic-questsepic-storyepic-storylinef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playguild-wars-2gw2jrr-tolkienlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsncsoftopinionquestquestingquesting-systemriders-of-rohanriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararoad-to-mordorsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republicthe-road-to-mordortolkientortriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 28 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online to add new features, anniversary gifts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/allods-online-to-add-questing-features-new-skirmish-and-raid-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/allods-online-to-add-questing-features-new-skirmish-and-raid-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/allods-online-to-add-questing-features-new-skirmish-and-raid-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Allods Online
Allods Online is barreling down the road toward Patch 3.0.0.02 (the extra decimals denote quality!), with an array of fine features to anticipate. Chief among those is an overall improved questing experience. The patch will give players additional ways to track and find quests, not to mention a new "auto-move" feature that will whisk you away to your desired destination.

Next on the patch's agenda is the game's second PvP skirmish map: Deserted Farm. Deserted Farm will be a 6v6 skirmish where players will struggle to control a central flag. The twist to the map is that a pair of cannon can focus-fire onto this location, so obtaining one or both of these is mandatory for success.

Finally, 3.0.0.02 (the extra decimals are a secret code that tells you gPotato loves you) will add a new raid boss to the Kingdom of Elements. His name is Gen'ul, Lord of the Volcano, and he'll be very pleased to meet and then wipe the floor with you. Multiple raids can attempt to down him at the same time and then squabble over the huge treasure chest that he drops.

The Allods site has also been updated with details on the anniversary celebration and gifts.

MassivelyAllods Online to add new features, anniversary gifts originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6v6allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netGenulgpotatopatchPatch-3.0.0.02patch-previewpvpquestquestingquestsraid-bossskirmishFri, 27 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[An outsider's look inside Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/an-outsiders-look-inside-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/an-outsiders-look-inside-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/an-outsiders-look-inside-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

My Guild Wars 2 beta weekend started off with a whimper instead of a bang. As I fired up the client and got a load of that sexy 2/dragon logo prior to character creation, one of the video cards in my gaming tower decided to give up the ghost. I didn't know this at the time, and as I slogged through the game's opening sequence, I wondered why it was running like pure Charr poo even with the settings dialed down.

I could barely move around the starter village, and after 15 minutes or so, I closed the client in disgust. Later I fired up EverQuest II on that same system and experienced similar subpar performance, so I quickly downloaded the GW2 beta to my laptop.

Ah, now that was more like it. Here was the Tyria I'd glimpsed via screenshots and video over the past few weeks, and I rolled up an Engineer to help determine whether ArenaNet has anything to offer a crusty old newb.

Continue reading An outsider's look inside Guild Wars 2

MassivelyAn outsider's look inside Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetclassesdivinitys-reachengineerfantasygame-mechanicsguild-warsguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-betaguild-wars-2-beta-impressionsguild-wars-2-impressionsguild-wars-2-newbguild-wars-2-previewguild-wars-2-questsguild-wars-2beta-impressionsgwgw2impressionsncsoftquestingMon, 26 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage II brings a full update of Harmony]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/lineage-ii-brings-a-full-update-of-harmony/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/lineage-ii-brings-a-full-update-of-harmony/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/lineage-ii-brings-a-full-update-of-harmony/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I'm not sure if the big dude is Kartia or he just hangs out at the labyrinth. Could go either way.
Harmony is a good thing wherever you can find it. It's true in work, it's true in friendship, and it seems to be true in Lineage II as well. The latest patch, Harmony, will be launching on March 7th and bringing a number of improvements to the upper tiers of leveling: new quests, a new dungeon, and several updates for skills. If you're already near the top of the leveling game, the new dungeon of Kartia's Labyrinth is your primary destination, with the option to enter solo or in a party at level 85, 90, or 95.

There are also a variety of new quests introduced, starting at level 76 and moving up. For lower-level characters, new Campaigns have been added; Campaigns are special zone-wide events that happen on a regular schedule and give everyone a chance at some bonus experience and Marks. New mentoring skills are also available to help low-level characters reach their full potential, the sort of thing that really inspires some harmonious behavior among players.

MassivelyLineage II brings a full update of Harmony originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playharmony-patchl2liilineagelineage-2lineage-iilineage-ii-harmony-patchncsoftpatchpatchesquestingquestsupdatesMon, 05 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Quest rhythm]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/choose-my-adventure-quest-rhythm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/choose-my-adventure-quest-rhythm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/choose-my-adventure-quest-rhythm/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Not pictured: Corlede being tied up by Zorai cavalry and insisting that they call her Dances with Bodoc.
Questing is an essential part of MMOs. You can say that players should be the ones crafting stories in games, not the developers, but quests provide you with structure and guidance. Even if you can create all sorts of stories on your own, it helps to know what the world is supposed to be like and how to set your own objectives. Not to mention the fact that having some sort of pointer is massively useful when you start playing.

So it makes sense to take a good look at the questing in Ryzom, even though the game definitely veers toward the "sandbox" side of the fence. Plus, questing won the poll last week, so even if I thought quests were categorical garbage, that would still be my destination. I can't run you through all of the quests that I've done in the game, but one in particular lent itself to a narrative, albeit in a somewhat disjointed form.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Quest rhythm

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Quest rhythm originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anecdoteschoose-my-adventurecmacolumndesignfeaturedhands-onhumoropinionpollpollsquestquestingquestsreaders-choiceryzomvotevotingwinch-gate-propertyWed, 15 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist's World of Warcraft confession]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/the-game-archaeologists-world-of-warcraft-confession/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/the-game-archaeologists-world-of-warcraft-confession/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/the-game-archaeologists-world-of-warcraft-confession/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

WoW Concept Art
As you may well know by now, I wasn't an early adopter of the MMO scene apart from a brief exposure to BBSes in the '90s and Anarchy Online and Final Fantasy XI in the early 2000s. To be honest, I found that MMOs were as intimidating -- and fascinating -- to me as pen-and-paper RPGs. You see, in high school I started buying RPG manuals and devouring them cover-to-cover, but I could never find friends or like-minded people with whom to play. The genre was a spectator sport for me; I was looking in from the sidelines and imagining what would happen if I actually got to be part of a D&D session.

Likewise, MMORPGs in their earlier forms appeared as user-friendly to me as that house on the block with overgrown shrubs, a rusty iron fence, and a mangy, ever-barking mutt in front of it. Maybe it was really cool inside, or maybe it was a death trap from whence there was no escape, but I never had the courage to find out. Let me put it this way: I purchased and read the entire Star Wars Galaxies Prima Guide three times over without once signing up for the game.

I'm sharing this with you because I always want to remember that what we take for granted today -- that MMOs are friendly, fun, engaging, and a downright natural part of many of our gaming lives -- isn't always true for those curious lookey-loos who feel intimidated by the scope, busy UIs, subscription fees, or the often bizarre attitudes that long-term MMO players exhibit. For me, it took one game that tore those barriers down to extend a welcoming hand to me, guiding me into these awesome games.

Of course, that was World of Warcraft. And even though my geek cred would be so much higher if it were something earlier or, well, not so mainstream, that wouldn't be the truth. So today I'm going to share my story of how I got into MMOs and why the early days of WoW were some of my most treasured gaming memories.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist's World of Warcraft confession

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist's World of Warcraft confession originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoazerothbbsblizzardclassesendgameeqiieverquest-iifeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xiquest-systemquestingrest-systemstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-game-archaeologistwarcraft-iiworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 24 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Does quest reward realism matter?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/the-daily-grind-does-quest-reward-realism-matter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/the-daily-grind-does-quest-reward-realism-matter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/the-daily-grind-does-quest-reward-realism-matter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

LotRO screenshot
While playing Star Wars: The Old Republic this week, my quest partner and I ran into something odd: A group of anti-Jedi Twi'lek pilgrims handed over an elite Jedi robe to his Consular. What were these pilgrims doing with expensive gear from their enemies, and if the quest-givers had looted the garb from Jedi corpses, why would they consider such wearables worthy gifts for us? In a game as story-driven as SWTOR, you'd think the quest rewards would match the lore, right?

Of course, BioWare's new epic isn't alone in these weird quirks. Think about how many fantasy games have monsters that drop abnormal numbers of body parts, or worse, money, when you know that ghost couldn't carry a sack of gold and you're pretty darn sure that bat had two eyes, not just one. But does it bother you? Are your immersions disrupted by such inanities, or do you chalk them up to game mechanics and go about your MMO business, happily accepting illogical quest rewards and looting ridiculous items (like furniture!) from any old white-con mob that wanders into your crosshairs?

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 quest reward realism matter? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgimmersionimmersionslootlootingloreopinionquestquest-rewardquest-rewardsquestingquestsstar-wars-the-old-republicstoryswtortdgthe-daily-grindSat, 24 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge CBT4 videos show questing, hang-gliding]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/archeage-cbt4-videos-show-questing-hang-gliding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/archeage-cbt4-videos-show-questing-hang-gliding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/archeage-cbt4-videos-show-questing-hang-gliding/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - hang-glider backpack
ArcheAge's fourth closed beta test is officially here, and you can get a glimpse of it via three new videos recently uploaded at Steparu.

What's new since CBT3? Quite a lot according to the patch notes (translated by fans at ArcheAge Source). Combat and UI changes abound, players can now interact with street lights, lamps, and candles in the open world, and of course the Hariharan race is now playable. Fifteen new zones and various new monster species are also included, and you can check out some questing footage (as well as one of those spiffy hang-glider backpacks) in the three video clips after the cut.

Continue reading ArcheAge CBT4 videos show questing, hang-gliding

MassivelyArcheAge CBT4 videos show questing, hang-gliding originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagebetacbt4closed-betafantasyhang-glidinghari-haranhariharankorean-betapatch-notesquestingsandboxsandparkvideoxlxl-gamesxlgamesFri, 09 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on impressions of The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/hands-on-impressions-of-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/hands-on-impressions-of-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/hands-on-impressions-of-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Scary monster dude in The Secret World
Last month, Funcom held a special hands-on event for The Secret World at its Montreal, Canada offices, where we sent freelancer François Blondin to cover all the exciting details. François also got to play the game for several hours, giving us a fresh perspective on what TSW has to offer MMO gamers.

In Funcom's upcoming The Secret World, the game's three factions -- Templars, Illuminati and Dragons -- face off, compete, and collaborate (all at the same time!) amidst the nightmarish creatures being revealed throughout the world. But choose your allegiance carefully: Your faction determines your path and special bonuses for the whole game, and faction-switching won't be an option. Join me for a hands-on look at the game's current incarnation!

Gallery: The Secret World

Continue reading Hands-on impressions of The Secret World

MassivelyHands-on impressions of The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armorcash-shopchakrascollisioncombatcraftingdemodouble-dippingdragonsequipmentexclusivefactionsfeaturedfuncomgearhands-onhiveilluminatiimpressionsjoel-bylosmartin-bruusgaardmontrealpreviewpvepvpquestingquestsRagnar-Tornquistskill-basedskillsstatssubscriptiontemplarsthe-hivethe-secret-worldthree-queststswweaponswheel-of-skillsMon, 21 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Social gaming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/hyperspace-beacon-social-gaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/hyperspace-beacon-social-gaming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/hyperspace-beacon-social-gaming/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Social gaming
As a roleplayer, I primarily do social things in MMOs. I take on a character, then via local chat, I communicate as if I were a smuggler attempting to swindle a gangster out of a few more credits. However, that's not the only kind of social gaming found in Star Wars: The Old Republic. Group activities of all sorts have sparked friendships that have lasted years. The people I adventure with mostly started in Star Wars Galaxies, then moved to City of Heroes, then went back to Galaxies, and now are headed to SWTOR. Because of the breadth of the internet, we have never met each other in person, but I still consider them close friends.

The social dynamics have always been a byproduct of MMOs. However, few online games give direct rewards for being social. In fact, there was a time shortly after the Combat Upgrade when Star Wars Galaxies actually punished players for grouping up by giving less XP. Perhaps the reasoning was that the larger the group, the more mobs players could kill in the same amount of time, but at the time the solo XP far outweighed the loss in group XP. Thankfully, that was eventually fixed.

In my recent venture into the SWTOR beta, I noticed several different social activities for which the game rewards players. Follow me past the cut and we will discuss them.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Social gaming

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Social gaming originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction-houseBioWarecarrick-stationEAElectronic-Artsfeaturedgalactic-trade-networkgary-gannongroupingGTNjames-ohlenLucasArtsquestingsocial-gamingsocial-pointssocial-vendorStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 01 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Snips and snails and Asmo tales]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/wings-over-atreia-snips-and-snails-and-asmo-tales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/wings-over-atreia-snips-and-snails-and-asmo-tales/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/wings-over-atreia-snips-and-snails-and-asmo-tales/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia header image
That's what this week's column is made of!

Back when I first decided I wanted to venture to the dark side of Aion and compare the leveling experiences of the two realms, I didn't really fathom that there would be so much content added that it would be hard to break away from sampling all of the goodies on my home server. Besides that, with all of the changes, comparing the leveling is just impossible. I knew that it would be easier with the introduction of repeatable quests, but it's just plain stupid-easy to level now as opposed to way back pre-Balaurea.

Even with the leveling comparison effectively nixed, I still can report on the differences in the feel of the two worlds as well as just run through and reflect on my impressions of the Asmodian life to give some screen time to the glowy-eyes. Did I mention I love the glowy eyes? With that in mind, Wings Over Atreia devotes this week to the furbacks (said with love!).

Glide past the cut for a look at Daevic life in Asmodae from Ascension to the Abyss.

Gallery: Aion: La Vida Asmo

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Snips and snails and Asmo tales

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Snips and snails and Asmo tales originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gameasmo-lifeAsmodaeasmodianasmodian-lifeasmodiansexperiencesfeaturedgalleriesgalleryHaramellevelingleveling-speedleveling-upnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionquestingquesting-experienceQuestsWings-Over-AtreiaxperiaMon, 31 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Da udder half lives]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/choose-my-adventure-da-udder-half-lives/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/choose-my-adventure-da-udder-half-lives/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/27/choose-my-adventure-da-udder-half-lives/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I remember thinking quite distinctly that I was ready to be done with the Tier 1 scenarios, oh, forever ago. It's not that Nordenwatch is inherently a bad scenario; it's just that when you see it often enough, you start to get sick of it. So I was very happy when the voting closed on last week's poll and I saw that I had a very different list of scenarios available to me in Warhammer Online. That had probably happened several levels ago, sure, but I hadn't been queueing.

Unfortunately, I found out that Oscar Wilde's old chestnut about the gods granting our wishes when they want to punish us proved entirely accurate. Jump on past the break for this week in Klurgind's somewhat less than epic adventure, with the caveat that it's going to be just a wee bit depressing in places. But hey, I never promised this story had a happy ending.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Da udder half lives

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Da udder half lives originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioware-mythicchoose-my-adventurecolumnea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsfeaturedmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentopinionquestingwarwar-eawarhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eaWed, 27 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory's Chaos updates kicking off with the Age of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/maplestorys-chaos-updates-kicking-off-with-the-age-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/maplestorys-chaos-updates-kicking-off-with-the-age-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/maplestorys-chaos-updates-kicking-off-with-the-age-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's been a while since we've heard from MapleStory, but today the free-to-play side-scroller from Nexon has taken the wraps off its Chaos summer update plans. The next two months will bring major content updates to Maple World courtesy of the Age of Heroes patch that drops on June 29th. New quests, zones, and a new high-level boss are all on tap, as is a battle through the Henesys Ruins and the Knight Stronghold that Nexon's press release describes as "the most formidable challenge in the entire game."

The Age of Heroes update will also bring about a hero class re-balance, and restrictions for creating Dual Blade, Aran, and Evan classes will be lifted. Explorers, Cygnus, and Resistance classes are also being tweaked, and players will find them "more powerful than ever" due to main skill enhancements.

Later in the summer, the Age of Artisans update will unveil a new level-based crafting system, and the Age of Battle will bring a PvP mode to MapleStory. Head to the official site for all the details.

MassivelyMapleStory's Chaos updates kicking off with the Age of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-artisansage-of-battleage-of-heroeschaoschaos-updatechaos-updatesclassescraftingf2pfantasyfree-to-playmaple-storymaplestorymaplestory-chaosnexonpatchespress-releasepvpquestingside-scrollerupdatesThu, 23 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gods & Heroes releases estate system screens]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/gods-and-heroes-releases-estate-system-screens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/gods-and-heroes-releases-estate-system-screens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/17/gods-and-heroes-releases-estate-system-screens/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Current-gen MMOs that ship with player housing options are seemingly a dying breed. Gods & Heroes: Rome Rising, debuting next week courtesy of Heatwave Interactive, is bucking that trend by launching with something the devs are calling an estate system.

In a nutshell, your Roman hero will inherit his very own ancestral estate. Unfortunately you'll take possession of the place after it's been razed to the ground by the evil machinations of the Telchinist cult. Part of the Gods & Heroes progression experience involves rebuilding your home, which in turn affects the power and quality of your NPC minions as well as other as-yet unnamed benefits.

The rebuilding process takes the form of various quest lines throughout the game, and you'll get a glimpse of what's in store by checking out our new estate system gallery below.

Gallery: Gods and Heroes

MassivelyGods & Heroes releases estate system screens originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancestral-estateestate-systemfantasygalleriesgallerygame-mechanicsgods-and-heroesgods-and-heroes-rome-risingheatwaveheatwave-interactivehousingpress-releasequestingquestsscreenshotsFri, 17 Jun 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: The no-quest challenge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-no-quest-challenge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-no-quest-challenge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/08/enter-at-your-own-rift-the-no-quest-challenge/#commentsFiled under: , ,

OK, I know you all probably want to talk about the news that addons are coming to RIFT, but the truth is that it's not that big of an issue for me. My feelings on addons are that I'm for them if they enhance the game and encourage player creativity, but I'm against them if they reduce players to mere statistics in the eyes of others (GearScore) or are absolutely necessary to tackle the game's content.

So if you feel passionate about this topic, I give you leave to vent more about it in the comments below, but as for me and mine, we're going to look at quests today. More specifically, not doing them.

Now, I generally like quests. They give me a feeling of accomplishment (as I am fond of checking off items from my to-do lists in real life), the stories are occasionally interesting, and they give nice boosts to leveling. But I've come to realize something interesting about RIFT that might run under the radar of most: Quests are superfluous to the game. Well, at the very least, they're optional and not the mandatory tasks that most modern MMOs make them out to be.

So I had a thought. What about playing RIFT without questing at all -- taking on a "no-quest challenge" of sorts? Is it not only possible but fun too? Hit the jump and we'll examine this from all the angles.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: The no-quest challenge

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: The no-quest challenge originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeonsenter-at-your-own-riftfeaturedfedexinstancesinvasionskill-ten-ratslfglfg-toolno-quest-challengeplanar-essencesplanaritepvpquestquestingquestsriftrift-planes-of-telarariftsrulesettriontrion-worldswarfrontwarfrontsworld-eventsworld-of-warcraftwowzone-wide-eventsWed, 08 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge dev diary talks housing, questing, and spreading diseases]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/archeage-dev-diary-talks-housing-questing-and-spreading-diseas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/archeage-dev-diary-talks-housing-questing-and-spreading-diseas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/archeage-dev-diary-talks-housing-questing-and-spreading-diseas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

XL Games' ArcheAge is starting to pick up a bit of a following here in the West, and that can only be a good thing for starving fans of the sandbox subgenre. Jake Song's fantasy opus is currently undergoing closed beta testing in its native Korea, and as XL's devs post Q&A features on the game's website, dutiful fans translate them into English.

The latest set comes to our attention courtesy of ArchAge Online.com, and covers a wide range of topics including questing (both local and regional variants), player housing, the game's achievement system, and player and NPC illnesses. "If you wander into a town that's full of infected characters, you'll probably catch something yourself! Then again, you could get sick on purpose and then pay a visit to someone you don't really like, but that's risky in it's own way," the dev diary explains.

MassivelyArcheAge dev diary talks housing, questing, and spreading diseases originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagecraftingdev-blogdev-diarydiseasesfantasyhousingjake-songkorean-translationlocal-questsnpc-illnessplayer-illnessquestingregional-questssandboxtranslationxlxl-gamesThu, 24 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA's David Noonan on building smart quests]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/teras-david-noonan-on-building-smart-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/teras-david-noonan-on-building-smart-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/teras-david-noonan-on-building-smart-quests/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Quests are such an integral part of current-gen MMORPG gameplay that players sometimes take them for granted. Collecting this or killing that is so ingrained in the gamer psyche that it's easy to overlook the work that goes into making a good quest (or the potential impact that unique quests have on the play experience).

TERA lead writer David Noonan has been thinking a lot about quests, and he recently shared a bit of insight with GameZone regarding how the team of writers at En Masse Entertainment is building better quests. Much of the team's effort goes toward ensuring the quality (and relevancy) of a given quest regardless of when a player chooses to accept it. Quests that capture a player's interest before (or after) a villain or boss fight are the ultimate goal.

"That's what we call a smart quest: a quest that's designed with an awareness of its emotional, storytelling, and world-building surroundings... When you see a smart quest... it's because someone thought through all the narrative, emotional, and gameplay implications beforehand," Noonan explains.

MassivelyTERA's David Noonan on building smart quests originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreadavid-noonanen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyinterviewspvequest-designquestingquestssmart-queststeratera-onlineMon, 21 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Forsaken World launch trailer debuts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/forsaken-world-launch-trailer-debuts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/forsaken-world-launch-trailer-debuts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/forsaken-world-launch-trailer-debuts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

What's the launch of a brand-spanking-new MMORPG without a similarly wet-behind-the-ears trailer to go with it? In service to that tradition, Perfect World Entertainment has just released a sleek new video that coincides with the debut of its latest free-to-play effort.

Forsaken World officially launched on March 9th, and even if you've already played it, you'll want to take a peek at the two-minute teaser that shows off a bevy of lush location shots as well as numerous big bads. If you haven't played the game yet, well, we submit that the launch trailer may very well get you hot, bothered, and ready to do just that. Luckily for you, we've got the clip available for your viewing pleasure just past the cut.

Forsaken World is a deeper, darker fantasy MMO from the makers of Jade Dynasty, Battle of the Immortals, and Perfect World International. The title boasted an astonishing 3500 developers during its construction phases and is now available for download via the official Forsaken World website.

Continue reading Forsaken World launch trailer debuts

MassivelyForsaken World launch trailer debuts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyforsaken-worldfree-to-playgroupinglaunchnew-titlesparty-dynamicsperfect-world-entertainmentpvepwequestingtrailervideoMon, 14 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Archetype discussion - the Errant]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/storyboard-archetype-discussion-the-errant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/storyboard-archetype-discussion-the-errant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/storyboard-archetype-discussion-the-errant/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you've seen The Princess Bride but haven't ever read the book, you have excellent taste in movies but you're missing out. There's a lot that by necessity had to be cut from the film, but the lost detail that stands out is just how much time Inigo Montoya spent training and preparing to hunt down the six-fingered man. It's one thing to be told that he strove to kill this man for years; it's another to be told in detail how hard he fought, how long he quested, and how much effort he poured into his goal until there was almost nothing left.

Today's archetype is Inigo Montoya. He is Roland Deschain, he is Alessan di Tigana, he is Captain Nero and James Ford and Depth Charge. He is the Errant, and he is anyone devoted to a singular purpose that drives every second of his actions. And he's probably the most problematic of the archetypes out there, because sooner or later he's going to have to deal with what it means to complete that purpose. So take a seat, and let's go on a single-minded journey.

Continue reading Storyboard: Archetype discussion - the Errant

MassivelyStoryboard: Archetype discussion - the Errant originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypearchetype-discussionarchetypescharacter-creationcharacter-goalscharacter-typeerrantfeaturedgoalopinionquestingroleplayingrpstoryboardFri, 28 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythos quest system detailed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/mythos-quest-system-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/mythos-quest-system-detailed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/mythos-quest-system-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The developers behind Mythos are billing it as "the first worldwide hack 'n' slash MMO" and to that end, the upcoming free-to-play fantasy title is crammed full of randomly generated dungeons, items, and upgrade potential. Mythos is also crammed full of quests according to a new press release dated earlier this morning, and HanbitSoft's game will lead players on a journey across the world of Uld that is heavy on the traditional types of MMORPG tasks with which we're all familiar.

Mythos also boasts several unique factions, and raising your character's reputation will grant access to special merchants and a selection of powerful equipment.

Mythos was originally developed by Flagship Studios prior to HanbitSoft taking the reins in 2009. The Korean F2P company, in concert with publishing giant Frogster, expects to bring Mythos online in early 2011. Learn more at the official website, and check out our screenshot gallery below.

Gallery: Mythos

MassivelyMythos quest system detailed originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeonsf2pfaction-grindfactionsfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterHack-and-Slashhack-n-slashhanbitsoftmythosquestingquestsTue, 11 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Forbidden RuneScape: The R-Team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/14/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-forbidden-runescape-the-r-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/14/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-forbidden-runescape-the-r-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/14/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-forbidden-runescape-the-r-team/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The Game Archaeologist is a lazy adventurer-slash-professor who dons his trademark cap for a weekly expedition through some of the most famous MMOs of the past few decades. Each month he chooses a different title to examine its highlights, talk with its developers, and invite its fans to share their experiences.

They come from all over the world just for one shot to be the elite of the elite. After a rigorous selection process, the survivors undergo months of hardcore training. Fingers aching from the strain and eyes itchy with sleep deprivation, these ripped warriors emerge to battle evil wherever it rears its ugly head. Budapest, probably. Or Easter Island. They loot with wild abandon, they craft with purpose, and they aren't afraid to jam on the caps lock button to make their voices heard.

So if you need their help -- and if you can afford them -- maybe you can hire the R-Team.

As we continue our month-long RuneScape safari, it's high past time that we hear from the R-Team members themselves. Four past and present RuneScape players graciously laid out the case as to why this MMO rocks socks off. To make a good thing even better, Jagex sent in five new screenshots for your enjoyment.

So what are you waiting for? Hit that jump like you mean it!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Forbidden RuneScape: The R-Team

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Forbidden RuneScape: The R-Team originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budapesteaster-islandfeaturedgoldhackingi-love-it-when-an-article-comes-togetherjagexkill-ten-ratskill-xlibrarymoneymoney-makingpkpkingplayer-killerplayer-killingpvpquestquestingquestsr-teamrunescapethe-game-archaeologistthe-r-teamworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 14 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Forbidden RuneScape: Words with Paul Gower]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-forbidden-runescape-words-with-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-forbidden-runescape-words-with-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-forbidden-runescape-words-with-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Game Archaeologist is a lazy adventurer-slash-professor who dons his trademark cap for a weekly expedition through some of the most famous MMOs of the past few decades. Each month he chooses a different title to examine its highlights, talk with its developers, and invite its fans to share their experiences.

Some of you may be old enough to remember comedian Rodney Dangerfield's classic line, "I don't get no respect!" Double negatives aside, Dangerfield's catchphrase resonated with many people -- perhaps even the team behind RuneScape. Despite being one of the most popular MMOs in the world, it's battled a perception of being "that" MMO that's not quite a full-fledged member of the Big Boy's Club. Lord knows that browser-based titles have struggled against such negativity ever since their inception, and RuneScape is no different.

But as I stated last week, perhaps it's high time we get over our exclusion of RuneScape from the discussion whenever MMOs are brought up and start giving the game its due. My inbox's spent a busy week receiving all manner of testimonies about RuneScape, and I saw a common theme of fondness for what was many players' first MMO. Next week I'll let these testimonies out of Pandora's Box (if you haven't already, send me your own RuneScape story via email!), but today I've invited Paul Gower, one of RuneScape's founders, to share his perspective on making and running a gaming phenomenon.

Hit the jump to level up!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Forbidden RuneScape: Words with Paul Gower

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Forbidden RuneScape: Words with Paul Gower originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-bowerbrowser-basedbusiness-modeldeviousmudf2pfeaturedfree-to-playi-dont-get-no-respectinterviewjagexmudpandoras-boxpaul-bowerquestquestingrodney-dangerfieldrunescaperunescape-2runescape-classicthe-game-archaeologistTue, 07 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV explains faction leves and server loads]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/04/final-fantasy-xiv-explains-faction-leves-and-server-loads/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/04/final-fantasy-xiv-explains-faction-leves-and-server-loads/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/04/final-fantasy-xiv-explains-faction-leves-and-server-loads/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The November update for Final Fantasy XIV brought with it a variety of improvements, and more are slated for the upcoming December update, but there's still a number of concepts within the core game that might be unclear. Previous developer dispatches have clarified a variety of topics, and the most recent one discusses the high-risk, high-reward faction levequests. It also talks about how server loads have been split up for areas, thus resulting in certain consequences for players wandering during regional levequests.

Faction leves are familiar to any player over level 10 -- by completing several regional quests, a player may earn standing with a faction that can then be turned in for faction leves. The rewards for completing faction levequests are significant, but they require players to "spend" faction standing to access them. Of course, since successful completion can lead to more advanced leves, there's some motivation for players to take the plunge. Take a look at the official dispatch for the details as well as maps of how Final Fantasy XIV's regional server loads are divided.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV explains faction leves and server loads originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>faction-levesfaction-questsfactionsffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivguildleveslevequestslevesquestingserver-balanceserver-loadsserverssquaresquare-enixSat, 04 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[November brings updates to Final Fantasy XIV's travel and questing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/november-brings-updates-to-final-fantasy-xivs-travel-and-questi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/november-brings-updates-to-final-fantasy-xivs-travel-and-questi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/november-brings-updates-to-final-fantasy-xivs-travel-and-questi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Final Fantasy series as a whole has been marked by a surfeit of crystals, and Final Fantasy XIV's Aetheryte is heir to the tradition. Floating just above the ground, these crystals serve as both a nexus of quests and a point of transportation. Both of these functions are getting a distinct boost with the pending November version update set for the 24th. Teleportation costs are being reduced for both the major cities and three player-selected "favorite" camps, allowing players to zap from place to place faster. Return costs are also being reduced to 1 anima, allowing players who are either lost or in a dangerous region a quick option to get to safety.

Meanwhile, levequest functionality at crystals is being improved, with players able to scale the difficulty of a given levequest downward once the quest has been started. This goes hand-in-hand with adjustments to the strength of enemies found in guildleves and improvements to the rewards of leve-linking, giving players more incentive to try to push themselves to the limits of what they can accomplish. The changes should be welcome boons to Final Fantasy XIV players, allowing easier movement and questing under all circumstances.

MassivelyNovember brings updates to Final Fantasy XIV's travel and questing originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aetheryteffff14ffxivffxiv-november-updatefinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivguildleveguildlevesmovementmovingnovember-version-updatequest-systemquestingquestssquaresquare-enixteleporttransportationMon, 22 Nov 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Anvil of Crom: Wild times]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/17/the-anvil-of-crom-wild-times/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/17/the-anvil-of-crom-wild-times/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/17/the-anvil-of-crom-wild-times/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Welcome back to the Anvil of Crom, your weekly peek into Funcom's Age of Conan. I'm your host, ranger rantypants, and today we'll be returning to a happier place, namely, the latest installment of my ongoing Hyborian travelogue. This week, I visited the well-traveled Wild Lands of Zelata, the third of the game's four post-Tortage regions and home to some of AoC's premier questing zones.

The trip was something of a homecoming, as my original launch character made his way to the Wild Lands after leaving Strom's broken body on the Tortage docks a couple of years ago, and playing through the zone again after numerous graphical and performance tweaks was quite an enjoyable experience and even a bit nostalgic.

Port past the cut for more.

Gallery: Age of Conan - Wild Lands of Zelata

TessoTesso millTesso squareTesso rooftopRoad to Tesso

Continue reading The Anvil of Crom: Wild times

MassivelyThe Anvil of Crom: Wild times originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananvil-of-cromaocaoc-zone-impressionsaquiloniafeaturedfuncomgalleryguideshyborian-travelogueold-worldopinionquestingscreenshotstessothe-anvil-of-cromwild-landswild-lands-of-zelatazone-impressionsSun, 17 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Mira, mira, on the wall...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/wings-over-atreia-mira-mira-on-the-wall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/wings-over-atreia-mira-mira-on-the-wall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/wings-over-atreia-mira-mira-on-the-wall/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Who is the happiest to be done with it all? If not me (I will certainly defer to those who endured 10+ attempts at the hot heart of magic craft), then I surely rank right up near the top! Yes folks, there is a Santa Cl... I mean an end to the Miragent/Fenris questline in Aion, and I have found it. To those naysayers, those unbelievers who think otherwise, I say I am living proof that Mira does not stand for mirage!

I admit, I am indeed grateful to be looking back on the experience, instead of ahead to it. Between the grinding, the spawn camping, and the curse of the RNG, to say that the journey to obtain Miragent or Fenris armor is a rough road is putting it mildly. I spent a fair share of time just being grateful the questline doesn't include belts and hats; I think there would be a mass exodus if NCsoft introduced Miragent/Fenris jewelry.

Although each leg of this race has had rough patches, I still believe it has been worth it. Make a final dash past the cut to experience the end of an era: the completion of the quest for Miragent armor.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Mira, mira, on the wall...

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Mira, mira, on the wall... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gamearmorarmor-setsassault-on-balaureaatreiacoin-questCoinsfeaturedfenrisgrindgrindingmiragentnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionquestquestingQueststheobomosweaponsWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 11 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Anvil of Crom: Gateway to adventure]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/the-anvil-of-crom-gateway-to-adventure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/the-anvil-of-crom-gateway-to-adventure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/the-anvil-of-crom-gateway-to-adventure/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I've been spending so much time in Khitai's Northern Grasslands lately that I'm starting to dream of wolves, 50-foot-tall golems, and crotchety warmonk bosses that mop the floors of their monastery with the remains of my asphyxiated assassin. As such, I figure it's time for a little change of pace, as well as a change of scenery. Ah hell, since I'm an incurable altoholic, let's go ahead and throw a change of character in there as well. Goodbye squishy 'sin, I'll miss you (not).

Anyway, several alts are in the works, but rather than focus on the hows and whys of a new class (more on that in the coming weeks), we'll chew the scenery in this week's Anvil of Crom.

Join me after the cut for a look at the majestic Gateway to Khitai, the latest stop on our tour of Hyboria's many and varied questing zones.

Gallery: Age of Conan - Gateway to Khitai

Kurosawa extra?Yeah I died, but cool armor!Kill the guard, free the slave.Looking westward across the zoneNear the Great Wall

Continue reading The Anvil of Crom: Gateway to adventure

MassivelyThe Anvil of Crom: Gateway to adventure originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conananvil-of-cromaocaoc-zone-impressionsfeaturedfuncomgalleryhyborian-traveloguekhitaiopinionpvequestingrise-of-the-godslayerscreenshotscreenshotsthe-anvil-of-cromzone-impressionszonesSun, 26 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A World of Warcraft player's guide to Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/a-world-of-warcraft-players-guide-to-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/a-world-of-warcraft-players-guide-to-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/a-world-of-warcraft-players-guide-to-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

So you're a veteran player of World of Warcraft, and you're ready to take a step away from the game that you've been playing for however many years and start in on something new. And you even know where you want to forge your new home: Eorzea, the continent on which Final Fantasy XIV's adventures take place. It should be a fairly easy transition, yes?

While Square-Enix has taken a distinctly different approach with its newest game compared to the decidedly old-school Final Fantasy XI, that doesn't mean that Final Fantasy XIV is World of Warcraft with moogles and chocobos. There are a lot of similairities, a lot of differences, and some subtle points that can be all too easy to miss when you're just starting out. So if you're moving from the current 100-pound-gorilla of the MMO scene into the newest title, you might be well-served to take a good look at this guide first.

Continue reading A World of Warcraft player's guide to Final Fantasy XIV

MassivelyA World of Warcraft player's guide to Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcataclysmcombatcraftingfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgameplayguidelevelingmechanicsnew-playersnew-titlesquestingsquaresquare-enixworld-of-warcraftwowwow-player-guideMon, 20 Sep 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Just a few weeks ago, I was invited to attend Trion Worlds' Gamer's Day in San Francisco to get some hands-on time with a couple of the company's upcoming titles, including Rift: Planes of Telara. If Rift seems to have come out of nowhere, that might be due both to the acquisition of EverQuest II veteran Scott Hartsman to head the project as executive producer, and to a clever name change meant to reflect the team's shift in development focus.

In fact, that shift in development focus is precisely what I was at Trion's studio to test -- I got to check out the Rifts themselves in all their glory, in the context of the greater dynamic content system that the developers are so excited about. Massively's writers have been able to play and report on character creation and the starting areas of Rift several times over the last year or so, including earlier this summer at E3. But until today's embargo lift (coinciding with the reveal at Gamescom), no one had quite seen the fabled planar invasions and takeovers in action.

Now we have.

Continue reading Massively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content

MassivelyMassively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementAchievementsaddonsalphaalpha-testbattlegroundsbuildscallingCapture-the-flagcharacter-creationcharge-barclericclunkcollectionCollectionscraftingdefiantDemodynamic-contentEarth-Elementalelementalistepic-mountfeaturedfootholdfootholdsgallerygloamwoodgraphicsgroupgroupinggroupsguardianhealershealinghell-levelsheroes-of-telaraholy-city-of-sanctuminstanceinstancesinterfaceinvasionjumpingjust-say-no-to-hell-levelslootmapmapsminimapmodsp2ppay-to-playpetsphilosophyplaneplanesplanes-of-telarapublic-questspvpquestingrealm-of-the-faerespecresurrectionriftrift-planes-of-telarariftsscott-hartsmanscreenshotsshadowlandssoul-walkSteamPunkstrategerystrategysubscriptionswimmingtalent-treestalentstavril-plazatelaratrailertriontrion-worldsUIvideowarfrontwarfrontsWed, 18 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Hands on with Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-hands-on-with-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-hands-on-with-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/e3-2010-hands-on-with-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I only have two words after playing Final Fantasy XIV. CRAB BATTLE!

Ok, so perhaps I have more than two words to say after playing Final Fantasy XIV and interviewing the game's producer, Hiromichi Tanaka. I was finally able to wrap my mitts around the game here at E3 2010 and experience the meat of the game -- a short preview of the game's combat system and questing system and some time with the game's character creator.

Final Fantasy XIV seems to be bridging elements of the old with elements of the new, and it's wrapping it all in a very gorgeous graphics engine. It's complicated without complication, simple on the surface yet teeming with a deeper game if you know where to look.

Gallery: E3 2010: Final Fantasy XIV

Continue reading E3 2010: Hands on with Final Fantasy XIV

MassivelyE3 2010: Hands on with Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aetherite-crystalaetherite-streamcrab-battlecrabs-in-a-barrele3-2010eorzeafeaturedffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfinal-fantasy-xiv-onlineguardian-spiritguildleveguildleveshands-onhiromichi-tanakanamedayquestingsquare-enixstar-signFri, 18 Jun 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A translated look at Final Fantasy XIV's Guildleve system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/a-translated-look-at-final-fantasy-xivs-guildleve-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/a-translated-look-at-final-fantasy-xivs-guildleve-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/a-translated-look-at-final-fantasy-xivs-guildleve-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

With the coming of a little show known as E3 -- you may have heard of it -- fans of several upcoming titles are hoping for new information. Final Fantasy XIV players are no exception, but as has slowly been the case ever since the testing began, little bits of information are becoming more readily available to players. FFXIVCore has recently translated a piece from 4Gamer, taking an in-depth look at one of the central features of the game, the Guildleve. The main source of quests in the game, the system promises to be somewhere between Final Fantasy XI's Fields of Valor and the timed battlefields.

Once a Guildleve is accepted by a character, they're directed to an Aetheryte crystal to begin the quest. Touching the crystal fully restores HP and MP, as well as starting a time limit and making the targets of your quest visible. A given battle can be tuned based on party size, desired difficulty, and party level, giving players a variety of options for playstyle. The full translation has more screenshots and specifics on the core of Final Fantasy XIV's questing system, and fans are encouraged to take a look in anticipation of this week's news from E3.

MassivelyA translated look at Final Fantasy XIV's Guildleve system originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>difficulty-scaleffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgame-systemsguildleveguildleveslevelingquestingquestsscalingsquaresquare-enixsystemstranslationsMon, 14 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Back me up, backstory]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/storyboard-back-me-up-backstory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/storyboard-back-me-up-backstory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/storyboard-back-me-up-backstory/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Welcome back for another edition of Storyboard, where after a couple of weeks in which we laid down ground rules we're ready to start in on the fine details. So it only makes sense to start at a point filled with fine details and yet often searingly inconvenient: backstory. Because we all know how beneficial backstory can be, how it can add depth and meaning and rich interaction to even the most innocent and trivial incident. A quest about killing boars can dredge up memories of hunting with a lost father, making one of the most obnoxious holdovers in MMO quests into something interesting.

And yet it's a double-edged sword. Because not only is backstory time-consuming to come up with, much of it requires either events that can't be supported in the game's engine or work on details that never come up during actual play. So we're left with something that's a huge benefit, but also such a huge inconvenience that the occasional benefit is outweighed by the massive amount of work required beforehand. How can you work character backstory and get the benefits without the negatives?

Continue reading Storyboard: Back me up, backstory

MassivelyStoryboard: Back me up, backstory originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycharactercity-of-heroescohdeveloping-charactersfeaturedfictionloreopinionquestingroleplayingstorylineFri, 11 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Agenda's Todd Harris spills the beans on Sandstorm]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/global-agendas-todd-harris-spills-the-beans-on-sandstorm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/global-agendas-todd-harris-spills-the-beans-on-sandstorm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/global-agendas-todd-harris-spills-the-beans-on-sandstorm/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Since its release a few months ago, nobody can claim that Global Agenda has merely sat back to rake in sweet kudos, particularly with the rapid additions and fixes shot through the development pipe. As we sit on the verge of Global Agenda's 1.3 patch -- aka "The Big Patch of Awesome" or "Sandstorm" -- Hi-Rez Studios' Todd Harris sat down with Massively to share how this patch will live up to its name and then some.

Sandstorm will be rolling out in several phases, each housing a different chunk of content and polish for Global Agenda, and it's no small patch at that. It's a genuine game-changer, taking out what wasn't working right and putting in a lot more that hopefully will.

As more gear with varying stats drops, the concern of balance -- or imbalance -- arises. What happens when a warrior enters the scene with uber-leet gear and stares down Mr. Newbie, fresh from the farm? While GA does have an "anything goes" type of PvP with AVA, Harris points to their selective matchmaker system: "Matchmaking does a good job at taking a look at win percentage, player skill, and classes, and certainly does the best job it can based on who's online to make it a fair match."

Continue reading Global Agenda's Todd Harris spills the beans on Sandstorm

MassivelyGlobal Agenda's Todd Harris spills the beans on Sandstorm originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 May 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>32-vs-32avabig-patch-of-awesomecybercutsglobal-agendahigh-rezjetpackspatch-1.3pvepvpquestingsandstormtodd-harriswar-zoneFri, 07 May 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: The importance of storytelling]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/the-tattered-notebook-the-importance-of-storytelling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/the-tattered-notebook-the-importance-of-storytelling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/the-tattered-notebook-the-importance-of-storytelling/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Hey Norrathian travelers! Seccia is off for the week, undoubtedly soaking up the rays on the shores of the Sinking Sands to welcome the warmer months. I, on the other hand, am stuck inside writing her column. Sheesh, I wish I had accumulated as much vacation time as she did...

Anywho, I want to tell you a story about telling stories this week. As many of you may have heard, one of the newest features coming to EverQuest II in the near future is the storyteller system -- a simple window that will visualize your travels from one zone to the next. It's a UI element that will help link quests together, aiding the game in telling a continuous story as you travel around Norrath. Plus, if you wish, you can follow the Storyteller window as it takes you down the game's "Golden Path," a series of quests that will become a "main storyline" of sorts for the game.

Out of all of the new things coming with the next set of updates (New Halas included), it's the storyteller system that I've been looking forward to the most. So why do I choose a simple UI addition over a brand new city? Simply put, I want to be engaged with my gameplay experience.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: The importance of storytelling

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: The importance of storytelling originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'Allo again, lovelies. Last week has been a week of danger and intrigue as I battled through Nektulos Forest and worked on getting my unique Shadowknight armor. During all of this, though, I thought to myself -- how can I apply any of these experiences to my notebook entry for this coming week?

Then of course, it hit me. Why not just explain what I've been doing to get through the areas in a short amount of time? A few tips and tricks for playing the level game? Sure, I've been up and down with grouping and preparations for Sentinel's Fate, but many players are always intimidated when entering a game and "being behind."

Well, don't worry about being behind. You're not entering the game late at all when it comes to EverQuest II, especially thanks to the recent additions to the game in Sentinel's Fate. Interested in catching up and experiencing some great content? Then click on through after the break!

Also, I'm still looking for questions anyone has on EverQuest II, so I can answer them in an upcoming Tattered Notebook. Ask me anything, from EverQuest II questions, guild leadership and raiding questions, and even questions on my Dark Elven heritage. Send them over to seraphina@massively.com, and she'll be sure to forward them on through the Norrathian Express mail to me.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: No one is left behind

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: No one is left behind originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentdungeonseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedgroupinglevel-capplotlinequestingsentinels-fatesoloingstorylinethe-golden-paththe-tattered-notebooktimelinesveteran-rewardsTue, 02 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Sentinel's Fate aftermath and advice]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/the-tattered-notebook-sentinels-fate-aftermath-and-advice/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/the-tattered-notebook-sentinels-fate-aftermath-and-advice/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/the-tattered-notebook-sentinels-fate-aftermath-and-advice/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hrm. After a brief vacation, darlings, I am back at the reigns of my column. Neriak was lovely this time of year -- I encourage you all to stop by for a visit if you have the time.

But who has the time these days, right? All of your are off exploring Odus as if you haven't seen the place in 500 years. I hear that some adventurers are already tackling some of the most dangerous dungeons on that continent already! My, my, my, how you all tackle your challenges so quickly.

Many of you have had some very interesting things to say about Odus, and I've been silently watching and taking some notes. I've got them all right here, tucked away in my notebook. I've even amassed some answers for a few of your more common problems, just in time for the digital download release today. But, all of you can never say that Seccia Ravenloft was a secretive elf. I'm more than happy to share my findings so come closely, gather around the campfire, and listen here.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Sentinel's Fate aftermath and advice

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Sentinel's Fate aftermath and advice originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaalternate-advancementeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionexperiencegraphicsgroupingodusquestingrepeatable-questssentinels-fatesoesony-online-entertainmentstatisticsthe-holetoken-questsTue, 23 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should MMOs be more or less reliant on questing?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/the-daily-grind-should-mmos-be-more-or-less-reliant-on-questing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/the-daily-grind-should-mmos-be-more-or-less-reliant-on-questing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/the-daily-grind-should-mmos-be-more-or-less-reliant-on-questing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MMOs and questing have become inseparable, much like breakfast and bacon or Abbott and Costello. Since World of Warcraft popularized the "questing exclamation point," MMOs have since embraced the concept and have utilized it in one way or another ever since.

Today's question is an interesting one, as we want to know what you guys think of quests. Do you think MMOs should be more reliant on questing, using quests to drive story and other gameplay elements, or should they be less reliant on questing, seeking to entertain the player through a more varied set of systems?

So go on, hit that comment box, and tell us all about your gripes with questing or your love for the exclamation mark. Share them with fellow readers, get into a conversation, and let's see what comes out today's Daily Grind.

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Should MMOs be more or less reliant on questing? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>opinionquestingqueststhe-daily-grindFri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Five more quick tips for Aion (p2)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/five-more-quick-tips-for-aion-p2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/five-more-quick-tips-for-aion-p2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/five-more-quick-tips-for-aion-p2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Continue reading Five more quick tips for Aion (p2)

MassivelyFive more quick tips for Aion (p2) originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aioncraftinggrindingguidesmaking-moneyncsoftquestingtips-and-tricksMon, 28 Sep 2009 17:30:00 EST