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[Vindictus EU update features two new raid bosses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Vindictus - Glas Gobbledegook something or other
This must be the day for sexy MMO news. On the heels of one risque announcement, we have a trailer for the latest Vindictus EU update that features a scantily clad lass named Succubus and a demonic colossal called Glas Ghaibheleann. Succubus is, well, a succubus, and she's also a raid boss who will challenge players like no other.

Except for maybe Glas Ghaibheleann. He's also a raid boss. While he's not quite as attractive as his partner-in-crime, he's equally deadly. Nexon says that the pair will awe players with their appearance and unique abilities. Get a load of the latest Vindictus EU update in the video after the cut.

[Source: Nexon Europe press release]

Continue reading Vindictus EU update features two new raid bosses

MassivelyVindictus EU update features two new raid bosses originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playglas-ghaibheleannnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentnexon-europeraidraidingraidssuccubustrailervideovindictusvindictus-euvindictus-europevindictus-raid-bossvindictus-raid-bossesMon, 21 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How far would you go for cosmetic gear?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/the-daily-grind-how-far-would-you-go-for-cosmetic-gear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/the-daily-grind-how-far-would-you-go-for-cosmetic-gear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/the-daily-grind-how-far-would-you-go-for-cosmetic-gear/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

WoW
Massively's got so many cosmetic-gear gurus and sandbox aficionados on staff that sometimes I suspect no amount of character customization and housing and achievements and titles would ever be enough for us. We'd do just about anything for more ways to distinguish our characters in an MMO.

But what about raiding for cosmetic gear? Enter OpenRaid, a World of Warcraft website that helps players organize cross-server PvE dungeon raids and premade PvP teams for the express purpose of acquiring achievements and gear to transmogrify (i.e., map the skin of something cool onto something with good stats). While I'd hope that needing to run large-scale endgame content for gorgeous weapon skins isn't going to become commonplace in future MMOs, it's still fascinating to see roleplay-oriented players playing content they wouldn't normally touch, just to collect a dress.

So how far would you go -- or have you gone -- to get your hands on a sweet piece of cosmetic gear, title, or achievement?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: How far would you go for cosmetic gear? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrianna-royce-tdgcosmetic-gearcosmetic-itemsdaily-grindfantasyopenraidopinionraidraidingroleplayroleplayingtdgthe-daily-grindwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Raiding and dealing with the dreaded 'bench']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/the-guild-counsel-raiding-and-dealing-with-the-dreaded-bench/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/the-guild-counsel-raiding-and-dealing-with-the-dreaded-bench/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/the-guild-counsel-raiding-and-dealing-with-the-dreaded-bench/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Kobe benched
The good news for guilds these days is that you don't need as many players in order to form a raid and tackle endgame content. However, this is also the bad news because it means guild leaders need to keep a watchful eye on their roster and face the unenviable task of telling certain members they can't be part of the raid on any given night.

In this week's Guild Counsel, we'll look the time-honored tradition of benchwarming and cover some tips on how to avoid the drama that comes with it. You may not be able to completely avoid having to sit members out, but there are some ways to cut down on how often you do have to say no.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Raiding and dealing with the dreaded 'bench'

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Raiding and dealing with the dreaded 'bench' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advicebenchwarmingfeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildskaren-bryanleadershipopinionraidingthe-guild-counselThu, 15 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aika releases dragons, Epic II Saga: Hestia content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/aika-releases-dragons-epic-ii-saga-hestia-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/aika-releases-dragons-epic-ii-saga-hestia-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/aika-releases-dragons-epic-ii-saga-hestia-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aika - the city of Hestia
If you've been waiting for the conclusion of Aika's Epic II Saga, your wait is over. The Hestia content patch is going live on gPotato's servers today, and it's bringing with it a significant amount of new content.

Two new level-80 raids are in the mix, and there are challenges aplenty in the Hestian city of Drago (so-named because it's built "within the coiled body of a sleeping dragon"). Squads of players may take missions from Hestia and set out on epic adventures to reclaim the holy cities of Aquados and Tyriantor, which have been occupied by the vile Zereca.

gPotato says that the Aquados catacombs are also home to a water dragon named Reagor, and he and his minions require the services of 24 skilled (and high-level) players. There's also an undead dragon named Dariadra, and he loves to reanimate holy soldiers and bend them to his nefarious will as he squats over the Tyriantor keep. More info -- as well as the client download -- is available at the official Aika website.

MassivelyAika releases dragons, Epic II Saga: Hestia content originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aikaaika-hestiaepic-ii-saga-hestiaf2pfantasyfree-to-playgpotatohestiahigh-level-contentraidingraidsThu, 08 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: How to break into raiding]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-guild-counsel-how-to-break-into-raiding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-guild-counsel-how-to-break-into-raiding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/the-guild-counsel-how-to-break-into-raiding/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR Hoth
One question every guild needs to answer at some point is, "Will we be a raiding guild?" Many guilds answer that question with a loud "yes" even before they set foot in game, but for other guilds, it's something that bubbles up as members reach the level cap and raid content is within reach. Raiding tends to get a bad rap, but that's not surprising when you remember that raid videos are usually filled with yelling, swearing, finger pointing, and heavy metal music. It looks about as relaxing as boot camp in the winter.

But it is possible to go from casual to raiding and still maintain a casual, low-key tone. In fact, it's even easier now to do that in many MMOs. In this week's Guild Counsel, we'll look at why we've entered a golden age of raiding, and we'll cover a few handy tips for guilds looking to make the leap.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: How to break into raiding

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: How to break into raiding originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advicebreaking-into-raidingfeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildshow-to-go-from-casual-to-raidingkaren-bryanleadershipopinionraid-leadersraidingthe-guild-counselThu, 16 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Looking for experiences, not challenges]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/free-for-all-looking-for-experiences-not-challenges/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/free-for-all-looking-for-experiences-not-challenges/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/free-for-all-looking-for-experiences-not-challenges/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wurm Online screenshot
When I was around 20, I used to watch my girlfriend's younger brother play Nintendo games. It was a pretty intense scenario. He would become so angry when a boss fight took away one of his lives or when a leap at a moving platform would fail that he often chucked that poor controller at the wall. It happened again years later after we'd graduated to the internet and PC gaming. The strangest thing is that he would return to the challenge over and over until it either broke his will or his device or he finally conquered the challenge. I never quite got it. Surely such frustration sucked any enjoyment out of the entire process?

I tend to be more lazy when it comes to my digital adventure. I hate to repeat content, and I would rather leave the raiding and boss fights to those with more patience or to those who simply have a desire to win that matches their tolerance for frustrating situations. I would rather become a trader, crafter, roleplayer, explorer, or even adventurer in certain titles.

Just spare me the overwhelming challenges while I game.

Continue reading Free for All: Looking for experiences, not challenges

MassivelyFree for All: Looking for experiences, not challenges originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcode-clubf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-ftpjagexMicrotransactionsraidingrolf-janssonrunescapevindictuswizard-101wizard101wurm-onlineWed, 25 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: We don't need no stinkin' endgame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/flameseeker-chronicles-we-dont-need-no-stinkin-endgame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/flameseeker-chronicles-we-dont-need-no-stinkin-endgame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/flameseeker-chronicles-we-dont-need-no-stinkin-endgame/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What's at the end of the road?
We talked a lot about the concepts of endgame and raiding on last week's Guildcast, but since not everyone has had time to watch it (and because the subject is still knocking around in my head), I want to address it a little more in this week's Flameseeker Chronicles.

There are so many assumptions and so much speculation and so much talk about the concept as a whole and how it applies to Guild Wars 2, so let's dive on in.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: We don't need no stinkin' endgame

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: We don't need no stinkin' endgame originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-guild-wars2end-gameendgameflameseeker-chroniclesgame-mechanicsguild-wars2guildwars2gw2ncsoftno-endgameraidingMon, 23 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT asks its community to test raids]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/rift-opens-up-to-the-community-for-raid-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/rift-opens-up-to-the-community-for-raid-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/rift-opens-up-to-the-community-for-raid-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You will probably not be fighting this guy. Things are looking up already!
Do you like RIFT? Do you like raiding? Do you like to test raids in RIFT? Well, then, your ship may very well have come in. The team at Trion Worlds is looking to get some solid raid testing going, giving players a chance to see the next tier of raiding before it goes live. So the call is going out to guilds that have demolished the current endgame, and the best of the best will be pitted against the newest challenges on the horizon.

To be eligible, guilds must have at least 20 members able to participate in two hours of raiding two nights per week; they must also currently be at 11/11 in Hammerknell. Candidates are also expected to have mature members capable of responsible feedback, since they are going to be testing new and possibly buggy combat. If you think your guild qualifies, have your guild leader (which may be you) respond to the call. And be prepared to blow through everything in minutes once it goes live -- that's always the risk.

MassivelyRIFT asks its community to test raids originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communitycommunity-eventsendgameendgame-testingguildguildsraid-testingraidingraidsriftrift-planes-of-telaratest-servertestingtriontrion-worldsTue, 10 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic to receive combat log parsing, other analysis features]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/star-wars-the-old-republic-to-receive-combat-log-parsing-other/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/star-wars-the-old-republic-to-receive-combat-log-parsing-other/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/star-wars-the-old-republic-to-receive-combat-log-parsing-other/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Star Wars: The Old Republic
Were you wondering whether DPS meters are en route to your favorite galaxy far, far away? Players on the Star Wars: The Old Republic official forums have dug up a Fansite Summit Q&A session with the game's lead combat designer Georg Zoeller in which he suggested that some new features will be coming to the game post-launch for those who want to ensure they're getting the most out of their character builds. During the talk, Zoeller claimed that combat log parsing and other such performance analysis features were "very high on [BioWare's] priority list." For the full details, and to listen to the full session yourself, head on over to the SWTOR official forums.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic to receive combat log parsing, other analysis features originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analysis-toolsbiowarecombat-log-parsingcombat-logsdamage-meterseaelectronic-artsoperationsopsparsingperformance-analysisraid-analysisraidingstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorSat, 24 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Prophecy releases Episode 3: Rise of the Boids]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/black-prophecy-releases-episode-3-rise-of-the-boids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/black-prophecy-releases-episode-3-rise-of-the-boids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/black-prophecy-releases-episode-3-rise-of-the-boids/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Black Prophecy
It's been a big week for sci-fi fans, but what about the fans who are less about space-knights and melodrama and more about blowing things into oblivion with big spaceships armed with big guns? Don't worry, gamigo has you covered with Black Prophecy's newest addition, Episode 3: Rise of the Boids. So wtf is a Boid, you may wonder. Well, according to this press release, "the Boids are a robotic race who have been waiting eons for a mysterious, universe-altering event to occur." Ominous.

On the gameplay side of things, Episode 3 raises the level cap to 50 while also adding "new story missions, one new warzone, a new open world sector for players level 40 and up, 11 new job missions and a brand new PvE raid system." That's right, a brand new raid system, which will allow large groups of players to band together to tackle the two newly added raids. And all of this comes with a few tweaks and fixes for various mishaps. For the update's official release trailer, click on past the cut, then head on over to Black Prophecy's official site to get in the game.

[Source: gamigo AG press release]

Continue reading Black Prophecy releases Episode 3: Rise of the Boids

MassivelyBlack Prophecy releases Episode 3: Rise of the Boids originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-prophecyepisode-3episode-3-rise-of-the-boidsf2pfree-to-playgamigogamigo-agpatchpatchesraidraidingraidsrise-of-the-boidstrailertrailersvideovideoswtf-is-a-boidMon, 19 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DCUO's GU6 finishes Fortress of Solitude raid, adds new gear]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/dcuos-gu6-finishes-fortress-of-solitude-raid-adds-new-gear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/dcuos-gu6-finishes-fortress-of-solitude-raid-adds-new-gear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/dcuos-gu6-finishes-fortress-of-solitude-raid-adds-new-gear/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - grouping with Superman
Sony Online Entertainment is wasting no time in its efforts to capitalize on DC Universe Online's newfound popularity. The recent free-to-play conversion has given the superhero actioner a second wind, and SOE is looking to keep the title in the spotlight via the release of Game Update 6.

The content pack is available as a free download for players of all access levels, and the highlight of the pack is the third and final chapter in the Fortress of Solitude raid series. GU6 is titled The Deadly Double Cross, in large part due to the betrayal of General Zod and the precarious position inside the Fortress of Solitude Sunstone Matrix that players will find themselves in as a result.

Raid encounters aren't the only thing new in the update, though, and GU6 adds plenty of new gear (including Kryptonian military weapons forged from the Sunstone crystals). Head to the official website for more game details, and don't forget the patch note discussion on the official forums.

[Source: SOE press release]

MassivelyDCUO's GU6 finishes Fortress of Solitude raid, adds new gear originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodungeonsf2pfortress-of-solitudefree-to-playgame-update-6gu-6new-gearnew-weaponsraidingraidssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentsuperheroTue, 15 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Guild horror stories]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/the-guild-counsel-guild-horror-stories/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/the-guild-counsel-guild-horror-stories/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/the-guild-counsel-guild-horror-stories/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EQII demon
Ah, fall! Crisp cool air, gorgeous foliage, and enough horror and frights to leave you looking like someone who's just seen Samara from The Ring. Halloween is chock full of scares and horror stories, and guilds are no different. Whether you've led a guild or been part of one, chances are you've witnessed your fair share of terrifying tales.

In this week's Guild Counsel, I'll share a few of mine, and I welcome you to add yours below. So gather round the campfire, pass the marshmallows, and bundle up in that sleeping bag because it's time to share our guild horror stories.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Guild horror stories

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Guild horror stories originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq-2eq-iieverquesteverquest-iifeaturedguild-counselguild-dramaguild-horror-storiesguild-leadershipguild-managementguildskaren-bryanraidingrogue-raiderssoeSony-Online-EntertainmentvanguardThu, 27 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: How raiding turns you into a horrible person]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-soapbox-how-raiding-turns-you-into-a-horrible-person/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-soapbox-how-raiding-turns-you-into-a-horrible-person/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/the-soapbox-how-raiding-turns-you-into-a-horrible-person/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Most of the armor was bought with tokens. The shoulders were bought with a ten-minute argument between myself and a hunter about whether or not I rolled fairly.
Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

I remember raiding at the start of Wrath of the Lich King very well. My Shaman was one of the first people in my guild geared up to run Naxxramas, and the oft-mentioned Ms. Lady was herself one of the first tanks to be ready to last through the boss fights. We were a casual guild, sure, but even in a casual grouping you have stars, and we were stars. We were experts on the content, we destroyed the fights, we marched around dripping in epics. I was the highest DPS in the guild, she was the tank there for nearly every session, and we were known and respected.

It was absolutely awful.

Of course, it didn't start like that. But there was a very good reason we finally decided that this was not only unfun but actively harmful to our relationship. We left and didn't look back, and we never moved back into raiding in a real way -- nor did we want to. Our time at the top made it very clear how raiding changes you and how you move from not caring about a stupid pretend sword to being absolutely livid when someone else wins a roll for that pretend sword. It's not a case of taking the game too seriously or not having a grip on reality -- it's the way that endgame raiding is structured that drives you, inexorably, to that point.

Continue reading The Soapbox: How raiding turns you into a horrible person

MassivelyThe Soapbox: How raiding turns you into a horrible person originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>columncultureendgameendgame-designfeaturedopinionraidingsoapboxthe-soapboxwotlkwrath-of-the-lich-kingTue, 20 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Dealing with 'Mr. Wiggly']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-guild-counsel-dealing-with-mr-wiggly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-guild-counsel-dealing-with-mr-wiggly/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/the-guild-counsel-dealing-with-mr-wiggly/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mr. Wiggly from The Guild
So there you were, ticking those last few points of health off the raid mob, preparing to celebrate a major victory, when all of a sudden someone triggers a massive AoE and the raid wipes. Even worse, you and everyone else on the raid instantly know who it is because it's the same person who mem-blurred the boss the week before and accidentally ported his group out the raid before that. In fact, it's beginning to seem like the raid should stop fighting NPCs and start taking on this guy because he's a much bigger threat.

The easy answer is to ream him out, boot him, and refuse to ever rez him again, but it's not that simple because he is extremely nice, is married to the guild leader, is helpful and contributes immensely when not raiding, or is a combination of all three. That's right, in this week's Guild Counsel, we'll look at what to do with the nightmare of having a Mr. Wiggly in your guild.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Dealing with 'Mr. Wiggly'

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Dealing with 'Mr. Wiggly' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildskaren-bryanmr-wigglyraidingraidsthe-guildwiggly-wipeThu, 08 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom wrapups for WildStar tease a few more nuggets of information]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/gamescom-wrapups-for-wildstar-tease-a-few-more-nuggets-of-inform/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/gamescom-wrapups-for-wildstar-tease-a-few-more-nuggets-of-inform/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/gamescom-wrapups-for-wildstar-tease-a-few-more-nuggets-of-inform/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Torchlight meets Firefly, or late 90s Disney meets Firefly? You decide.
It remains to be seen what's going to come of it in the future, but WildStar certainly made an impressive showing during its debut at Gamescom 2011. Of course, outside of a trailer and some very early gameplay, potential players still know very little about the meat of how the game plays. But there are nuggets to be found in the wrap-up posts, a few interesting answers that should pique further interest in the upcoming title.

The fact that the game will include PvP is almost a no-brainer, but the endgame has been stated to be diverse for all players. If you don't enjoy raiding, the game will still have a world story for players to explore and get engaged by. The world will feature both open areas and instances, as well, with a definite spread of different ways to ensure that players can experience the game with their friends. Last but not least, classes will be versatile and armor will be heavily customizable -- the game is being shaped to be something where each player can make his or her mark and have a unique look.

If the game interests you, our own staffers will be getting a hands-on experience with WildStar on Friday.

MassivelyGamescom wrapups for WildStar tease a few more nuggets of information originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancecarbinecarbine-studioscontentendgamegamescomgamescom-2011ncsoftnew-titlespreviewspvpraidingupcoming-titleswildstarwsMon, 22 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Why The Raid is worth seeing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/the-guild-counsel-why-the-raid-is-worth-seeing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/the-guild-counsel-why-the-raid-is-worth-seeing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/the-guild-counsel-why-the-raid-is-worth-seeing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Raid's Double Dragons
Over the weekend, Gary Gannon from Gamebreaker.TV hosted a unique event in the world of MMOs: a film premiere, complete with fancy suits and ties and even an afterparty (albeit in the form of a chat room). The film is The Raid, which followed the World of Warcraft guild Double Dragons as it worked through the raid content from Wrath of the Lich King. There has been a lot of feedback from those who saw the premiere, but it's been decidedly mixed so far. Furthermore, viewers had such strong reactions to certain parts of the documentary that director Kevin Michael Johnson made a post on the site to try to address some of the criticism.

But is the mixed review simply the cynical gamer at his best, or is it legit? In this week's Guild Counsel, we'll take a closer look at The Raid, and I'll explain why I think it's definitely worth seeing.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Why The Raid is worth seeing

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Why The Raid is worth seeing originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentbonnie-nardidouble-dragonsedward-castronovafeaturedgamebreakergamebreaker.tvgary-gannonguildguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-warsguildsjesse-schellkaren-bryankevin-johnsonlich-kingloremonths-behindraidingraidsthe-raidWorld-of-Warcraftworld-of-warcraft-movieswotlkwowWrath-of-the-Lich-KingThu, 11 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Catch The Raid's world premiere for free]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/catch-the-raids-world-premiere-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/catch-the-raids-world-premiere-for-free/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/catch-the-raids-world-premiere-for-free/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Raid movie
Hot on the heels of 2009's Second Skin, MMO players are once again the subject of an in-depth documentary about their lives and playing styles as Gamebreaker.TV is hosting the world premiere of The Raid for all to enjoy.

Directed by gamer Kevin Johnson, The Raid follows a guild of World of Warcraft players who tackle some of the toughest challenges of the game and open up about what being a raider means to them. The 20-minute runtime examines what drives players to the raiding scene and introduces outsiders to the collaboration and competition that goes on during these events. The primary focus, however, is on the social aspect of raiding and how it binds a group of people together for a single purpose.

You can catch the documentary after the jump until Wednesday evening at 10 p.m. EDT. Please note that the film starts around the 26-minute mark if you don't want to sit through the pre-show interviews. Give it a watch and let us know what you think -- did The Raid hit the spot or miss its target?

Continue reading Catch The Raid's world premiere for free

MassivelyCatch The Raid's world premiere for free originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>competitiondocumentaryendgameendgame-raidinggamebreaker-tvGamebreaker.tvkevin-johnsonmovieobsessionraidraidersraidingraiding-guildsecond-skinthe-raidthis-is-why-i-dont-raidMon, 08 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Confronting our raid ghosts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/the-guild-counsel-confronting-our-raid-ghosts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/the-guild-counsel-confronting-our-raid-ghosts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/the-guild-counsel-confronting-our-raid-ghosts/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In last week's Guild Counsel, we looked at how parsing tools can aid in raid leading. It triggered a lively discussion on raiding in general, and it was pretty clear that it's not everyone's cup of tea. Scripts, add-ons, dps checks -- they leave some standing in shock like Theoden, muttering "how did it come to this?" Others will channel their inner-Gimli and shout, "bring your pretty face to my axe."

Raiding offers both the best and worst parts of MMOs, and it's come a long way through the years. It's worth taking a step back, and spending some time with the ghosts of raiding -- past, present, and future. In this week's Guild Counsel, we'll do just that!

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Confronting our raid ghosts

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Confronting our raid ghosts originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addonsdkpeverquestguild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildsinstancesraidingraidsThu, 04 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively Extra: An interview with Dungeon Overlord's Chris Mayer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/not-so-massively-extra-an-interview-with-dungeon-overlords-chr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/not-so-massively-extra-an-interview-with-dungeon-overlords-chr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/not-so-massively-extra-an-interview-with-dungeon-overlords-chr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

For the past two weeks, I've found myself inexplicably addicted to online Facebook game Dungeon Overlord. Players in Dungeon Overlord design and build their own dungeons and then lead raids against other players' dungeons to steal resources, kill defending creatures or just generally smash stuff up. It's a competitive twist that developer Night Owl Games hopes will attract the more hardcore gamer. We interviewed Night Owl Games CEO Chris Mayer to find out more about the game, which is currently in a playable open beta stage and is still under development.

Massively: Several game mechanics take a long period of time to complete, from minutes to hours, or even days. Why was this slow pace selected for the game?

Chris Mayer: This game was designed to be a browser game that hardcore gamers could play when they aren't able to sit down for a "traditional" gaming session. We wanted people to be able to play for a few minutes before work, during their lunch, on a study break, or for a few minutes before logging on to their favorite PC game. So we designed the game around the player planning actions and then coming back later to check on them. Also, since this is a massively multiplayer strategy game you need time for other players to react to what one player does.

Read on to find out how you can raid other players' dungeons, build up your defenses, and even revolt against the self-appointed king player in charge of your mountain.

Continue reading Not So Massively Extra: An interview with Dungeon Overlord's Chris Mayer

MassivelyNot So Massively Extra: An interview with Dungeon Overlord's Chris Mayer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-mayerconqueringdungeondungeon-overlordfacebookfacebook-gamesfeaturedhardcoreinterviewnight-owl-gamespillagingpvpraidingMon, 01 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion community update details server-first boss kills and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/aion-community-update-details-server-first-boss-kills-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/aion-community-update-details-server-first-boss-kills-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/aion-community-update-details-server-first-boss-kills-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Wondering what's been happening in the world of Atreia lately? Quite a lot according to the latest Eye on Community update from the Aion team at NCsoft.

The post is packed with content including player screenshots, artwork, profiles of Aion community managers, and a detailed accounting of the first western shard boss kills for both Sematariux and Padmarashka. There's also an embedded video (which you can view after the cut, below) if you're looking to get a few pointers for your own raiding party.

Finally, check out the helpful how-to for those of you interested in designing your own legion cloak emblems, as there's a special emphasis on making logos with transparent backgrounds. All of these juicy details can be found at the official Aion website.

Continue reading Aion community update details server-first boss kills and more

MassivelyAion community update details server-first boss kills and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionartworkboss-killscommunityeye-on-communityfantasylegion-cloak-emblemslegion-cloaksncsoftpadmarashkapveraid-boss-killsraid-bossesraidingraidsscreenshotssematariuxserver-firstsvideoworld-firstsTue, 05 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Raid leading 101]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/the-guild-counsel-raid-leading-101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/the-guild-counsel-raid-leading-101/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/the-guild-counsel-raid-leading-101/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's time to break out the chalkboard and textbooks, as The Guild Counsel begins the subject of raid leading 101. Ironically, the more I think and write about guild management issues, the more I realize how much they really do have in common with my experience in the classroom management. Teaching history to a class of high school students and running an online gaming guild seem like two completely different spheres of responsibility at first glance. But in order to do each well, they actually require similar preparation and a common approach.

Read on for a look at how teaching and raid leading resemble each other!

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Raid leading 101

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Raid leading 101 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advicefeaturedguild-adviceguild-counselguild-managementguild-warsguildslesson-planraid-leadersraid-leadingraidingraidsthe-guild-counselThu, 30 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's 1.3 update bringing new raid, free transfers, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/rifts-1-3-update-bringing-new-raid-free-transfers-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/rifts-1-3-update-bringing-new-raid-free-transfers-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/rifts-1-3-update-bringing-new-raid-free-transfers-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With less than a week remaining until the biggest game update in RIFT's short history, Trion Worlds is upping the excitement ante with a new press release detailing the extensive features coming with Waves of Madness.

The official unveiling will happen courtesy of a world event on June 22nd, and RIFT's 1.3 version update will subsequently include guild bank functionality, new item sets, new character accessories, new artifacts, free character transfers, and Hammerknell. This last is a 20-player raid that Trion says "will challenge even the most practiced players."

The encounter boasts three wings, 10 bosses, and a gaggle of gross-out monsters designed to make life more fun for Telara's endgame players. If we've piqued your curiosity, have a look at the official website for all the details.

MassivelyRIFT's 1.3 update bringing new raid, free transfers, and more originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.3-patch1.3-updateartifactsendgame-contentfantasyfree-character-transfersguild-bankhammerknellitem-setspress-releasepveraidraidingriftrift-1.3rift-patchtelaratriontrion-world-networktrion-worldswaves-of-madnessWed, 15 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: Grinding skill instead of gear]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/the-soapbox-grinding-skill-instead-of-gear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/the-soapbox-grinding-skill-instead-of-gear/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/31/the-soapbox-grinding-skill-instead-of-gear/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

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

One of the most troubling things I see in gamers these days is their incessant pursuit of loot. If you happen to play World of Warcraft, you know that getting into a pick-up raid involves a lot of people waving around GearScore like it's an actual measurement of player ability. Ever tried to get into an Ultra-Max Security group in Global Agenda? I hope you've got top-quality token gear and are level 50 because the time you spent getting those things matters a lot more than actually having any sort of skills.

As a tournament fighting-game player, I take offense to this. You don't need to have an epic'd-out Chun Li to win in Street Fighter. In online games, gear is important, but it isn't the first thing you should be pursuing.

Continue reading The Soapbox: Grinding skill instead of gear

MassivelyThe Soapbox: Grinding skill instead of gear originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildbuildsendgamefeaturedfotmgeargearscoreopinionplayer-skillpvepvpraidingskillskill-vs-gearsoapboxspecspecstalentthe-soapboxyou-must-defeat-sheng-long-to-stand-a-chanceTue, 31 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes interviews discuss content development and Incarnate raids]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/city-of-heroes-interviews-discuss-content-development-and-incarn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/city-of-heroes-interviews-discuss-content-development-and-incarn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/city-of-heroes-interviews-discuss-content-development-and-incarn/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

At the start of the month, City of Heroes released the massive and potentially game-changing Issue 20 update. Codenamed Incarnates, the update introduced a series of large raids designed to continue the story established in Going Rogue in a new way. In an interview with PC Gamer, lead producer Nate Birkholz discussed how the new group instances have been received. Issues touched on include difficulty scaling, the new Incarnate powers that can be earned and lessons learned from developing the new system.

In a contrasting interview over at Gaming Angels, lead designer Melissa Bianco discussed content development and her career at Paragon Studios. The interview covers some important issues, asking why City of Heroes has enjoyed the ongoing success it has and what exactly goes into zone and instance design. Melissa also has some tips for anyone looking for a job in the games industry and provides a little insight into the development process.

MassivelyCity of Heroes interviews discuss content development and Incarnate raids originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroesCity-of-Villainscohcoh-issue-20covendgamegame-designincarnateincarnate-systemincarnate-trialsincarnatesinterviewissue-20melissa-bianconate-birkholzncsoftparagonparagon-cohparagon-studioesparagon-studiosraidraidingraidswomen-in-gamingMon, 18 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT dev diary talks River of Souls, raiding]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/rift-dev-diary-talks-river-of-souls-raiding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/rift-dev-diary-talks-river-of-souls-raiding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/rift-dev-diary-talks-river-of-souls-raiding/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ever wondered about the design process behind a fantasy MMO raid instance? If so, you'll want to check out a new RIFT dev blog from senior game designer Berenger Fish. We profiled Alsbeth the Discordant a few weeks ago, and today Fish takes us through the iterative process that led to the sorceress' unveiling at the culmination of the River of Souls raid event.

Trion's first RIFT raid, Greenscale's Blight, was expanded to include more bosses than originally planned, and the full plate left Alsbeth homeless prior to the decision to give the character her own raid. "The final result is something that we're very proud of," Fish explains. "Not because 'we did the best we could given the circumstances' but because the River of Souls stands on its own as being a kick-ass raid."

Head to ZAM for the full dev blog.

MassivelyRIFT dev diary talks River of Souls, raiding originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alsbethalsbeth-the-discordantberenger-fishdev-blogdev-diaryendgamefantasypveraidingraidsriftrift-planes-of-telarariver-of-soulstelaraFri, 15 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: If we all look cool, how do we know who's really cool?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/the-tattered-notebook-if-we-all-look-cool-how-do-we-know-whos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/the-tattered-notebook-if-we-all-look-cool-how-do-we-know-whos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/the-tattered-notebook-if-we-all-look-cool-how-do-we-know-whos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Last week, we looked at the amazing job that EverQuest II does with providing ways to make your character look unique. EQII is one of the best when it comes to making your character look special, cool, and fitting of who you are. But there's another side of this coin, and as one forum poster has rightfully pointed out, the best-looking items aren't always the best items in the game. As Rayven2 noted recently on the official forums:
A good example is the Elemental War Sword. Sure it drops from an easy-mode mob, but it's a 4x raid and takes time and effort to beat (at least the first time you do it). The sword should look somewhat cool, but the graphic is just the same reused sword graphic painted gold. The chillborne sword is the one that has the particle effects for 200SC. So you bust your hump beating a mob that took 24 people to take down only to get a reward that looks worse than an appearance weapon anyone can acquire for little or no effort. None of the scout weapons look anywhere as cool as the SC daggers out there.
Senior Producer Dave "SmokeJumper" Georgeson replied, saying, "It's a fair point, although if we're not paying attention to that now, it's by oversight, not by intent. Everyone wants something cool looking (not just cool stats) when they overcome big challenges. That's natural."

In this week's Tattered Notebook, we'll take a closer look at "looking cool" and how the rise of cash shops has changed the way we view each other.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: If we all look cool, how do we know who's really cool?

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: If we all look cool, how do we know who's really cool? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appearance-itemsappearance-tabcash-shopclass-gearclass-hatcosmeticsDave-georgesoneq2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgearkingdom-of-skymarketplaceprismaticsraidingraiding-gearrayven2sentinels-fatesmokejumperMon, 11 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chris Cao: DCUO's Update 2 is all about "chance"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/chris-cao-dcuos-update-2-is-all-about-chance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/chris-cao-dcuos-update-2-is-all-about-chance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/chris-cao-dcuos-update-2-is-all-about-chance/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We heard some tantalizing details of what Sony Online Entertainment has planned for DC Universe Online's March patch a few weeks ago when Game Director Chris Cao and Art Director and Mark Anderson sat down on the Stickam chat to offer a teaser of what players could expect. Following up, we had a chat with Cao to find out some more specific details on what exactly our superheroes can expect coming in March.

According to Cao, the primary theme for this update is "chance," which is reflected both in our chance to face off against The Penguin as boss and in the addition of Two-Face/Harvey Dent in Legends PvP play and as an instance character. That fifth-dimensional trickster Mister Mxyzptlk is likewise being introduced to the game as part of a holiday event themed around St. Patrick's Day. We knew most of this from the Stickam chat; that's why we went digging deeper for the scoop on DC Universe Online's development. Check it out behind the break!

Gallery: DC Universe Online

Continue reading Chris Cao: DCUO's Update 2 is all about "chance"

MassivelyChris Cao: DCUO's Update 2 is all about "chance" originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batcave-3brainiacbug-fixeschat-overhaulchat-systemchris-caodc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodevelopment-plansfeaturedfortress-of-solitudegame-improvementsgreen-lanternharvey-dentinterviewmarch-updatemark-andersonMister-Mxyzptlkpatchpatchesraidingsoesony-online-entertainmentst-patricks-dayst-patricks-day-2011the-penguintwo-faceupdateupdate-2Mon, 21 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: Raid wipe, now what!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/the-guild-counsel-raid-wipe-now-what/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/the-guild-counsel-raid-wipe-now-what/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/the-guild-counsel-raid-wipe-now-what/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Whether you're a guildleader or not, there's always one single moment that everyone dreads in an MMO: the wipe. It's caused sleepless nights, tons of gray hairs, and in some cases, the breakup of a guild. The first few seconds after a raid wipe resemble that scene from Speed:

"Pop quiz, hot shot. There are dozens of players attacking a mob, it's at one percent, your tanks drop, and you wipe. What do you do?"

If you've ever been Keanu Reaves on that out of control bus, read on for a few helpful tips on what to do when everything hits the fan.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Raid wipe, now what!

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: Raid wipe, now what! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceeverquest-iiexperiencefeaturedguild-adviceGuild-counselguild-leadershipguild-managementguildskeanu-reevesraid-leaderraid-wipesraidingraidsspeedwipesThu, 10 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's endgame detailed in 18-minute video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/rifts-endgame-detailed-in-18-minute-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/rifts-endgame-detailed-in-18-minute-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/19/rifts-endgame-detailed-in-18-minute-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Much has been written about RIFT in regard to the title's first 20 levels, its soul system, and the titular rifting mechanics. Endgame has remained something of a mystery up to this point, but a new article (and an accompanying 18-minute video) at G4TV has conspired to shed a little light on the proceedings.

RIFT's endgame features both 10- and 20-man raid types. Trion calls the 10-man exterior raids "on-demand rifting," and in a nutshell, the encounters function similarly to the game's public quest system. The main raid group initially opens the rift and deals with the resulting enemies. Random players can also join, and the more who do, the harder the content becomes. What about loot? Only members of the rift-opening group are eligible; late-comers will receive tokens and cash. The 20-man raid experienced by G4 was an interior instance named Greenscale's Blight, which featured a more traditional setup in that there was a lockout timer and no provisions for public participation.

RIFT will feature five unique raid types at launch, with more unlockable instances scheduled for post-release. These raids will open up via world events, and they're not progression-based, "meaning you don't have to do the 10-man exterior rift raids in order to try out the 20-man ones."

Hit the jump for the full video.

[Thanks to Puremallace for the tip!]

Continue reading RIFT's endgame detailed in 18-minute video

MassivelyRIFT's endgame detailed in 18-minute video originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-man20-manendgamefantasygreenscales-blightlockout-timersplanes-of-telarapublic-raidsraidingraidsrifttrailertriontrion-worldsvideoworld-eventsSat, 19 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: A hardcore raider shines light on F2P issues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/free-for-all-a-hardcore-raider-shines-light-on-f2p-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/free-for-all-a-hardcore-raider-shines-light-on-f2p-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/free-for-all-a-hardcore-raider-shines-light-on-f2p-issues/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

My gaming moods come and go, but generally I always avoid heavy grinding. I am 36 -- all grown up -- and the last thing I want to do is put myself into a position in a game that makes me feel like I am working instead of playing. In fact, I think participating in a heavy grind will only encourage developers to make more of the same, so I try to do my part by avoiding it. I hope this doesn't sound harsh, but I believe that heavy grinding is ruining gaming. Allow me to explain.

We humans love to establish rules and boundaries. Many of us need rules and boundaries or we don't know what to do with ourselves. We like to achieve goals, and some of us are obsessed with surpassing those goals. Have you ever stopped to wonder how we got to the point that a standard work day is eight hours and how the weekend is set on the days it is? This is all due to our ability to fall in line, to give into the demands that we place on ourselves, to give into a set of rules and guidelines. One only need attend an average wedding to see how ridiculously far we accept certain guidelines in the name of tradition. Funerals can be equally silly.

What does this have to do with free-to-play gaming? Well, click past the cut and we'll chat about it.

Continue reading Free for All: A hardcore raider shines light on F2P issues

MassivelyFree for All: A hardcore raider shines light on F2P issues originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcultf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftphardcorehardcore-raiderhardcore-raidingopinionraidingreligionWorld-of-WarcraftWed, 09 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Incursion in progress]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/30/eve-evolved-incursion-in-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/30/eve-evolved-incursion-in-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/30/eve-evolved-incursion-in-progress/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

In a blaze of fire and glory, Sansha Kuvakei's fleet clashed with players in a major offensive in Yulai. Although his AI-controlled Sansha battleships numbered in the hundreds, the sheer force of capsuleer defense initiatives was brought down on Kuvakei's fleet like a hammer. With the Sansha ships under heavy fire, the fleet opened additional wormholes to call in reinforcements. Amidst the busy buzz of lasers scorching hulls, capsuleers hurling missiles, and CONCORD rescue operations, space itself warped as several massive Sansha supercarriers emerged from the incoming wormholes. Sansha Kuvakei played his biggest and most fearsome card as a show of the incredible forces he now commands. And capsuleers burned them to ashes in defiance.

Since the battle in Yulai, Sansha's Nation has begun launching full-scale occupations of constellations across New Eden. Many players dove straight into the fray without adequate preparation, and Sansha's forces were not forgiving. While most NPC pirate ships found in EVE Online are weak with a very basic AI, the new Sansha ships are both smart and deadly. They use everything from ECM and energy neutralisers to stealth bomber technology and logistic support. Thousands of player ships were destroyed in the first day of fighting as people worked out, through a system of trial and error, how best to tackle EVE's latest supervillain. As the dust settled, I began to get a solid impression of how well the feature is working and whether it really is the breath of fresh air EVE's PvE has been sorely lacking all these years.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I give my first impressions of the Sansha incursions in an attempt to demystify some of the discussion surrounding them and share some basic tips for getting involved.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Incursion in progress

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Incursion in progress originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 30 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdungeondungeonseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedgroup-pvegroupingincursionincursionslogisticspick-up-grouppugpuggingpugspvepvpraidingsanshasanshas-nationsupercarriersSun, 30 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: A cozy chit-chat with Thom Terrazas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-a-cozy-chit-ch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-a-cozy-chit-ch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-a-cozy-chit-ch/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Welcome back to the Game Archaeologist's third week of our EverQuest expedition! So, OK, we lost a few valued members of our team crossing the wilds of Norrath, but who would ever think that 10 rats could be so vicious when out for vengeance? It comes with the territory, and really, it's well worth the loss of human life if we can educate just one soul on one of the most influential MMOs of all time. Their mothers will understand their sacrifice.

We've already taken a look at the highlights of EverQuest and the perspectives of several veterans of the game, which means this week we must be gearing up for an inside look into the machinations of grinding, hell levels, alternative advancement and DKP. For this, we struggled through the Swamp of Sony to find the ramshackle hut of Thom Terrazas -- and he was expecting us. A fight ensued, with many a chicken flung in anger, not to mention a few pokes in the eye, Three Stooges-style. But in the end, Terrazas capitulated and told us everything we wanted to know.

Thom Terrazas almost has all his SOE merit badges, having worked on Planetside, Vanguard and now EverQuest in various roles. I was curious -- what was it like to be handed the keys to not just a game, but a veritable institution? Hit the jump to see what Terrazas has to say about his favorite memories, the future of the game, and why EQ hit it out of the park in 1999.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: A cozy chit-chat with Thom Terrazas

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: A cozy chit-chat with Thom Terrazas originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>989-studiosAlan-VanCouveringcircle-of-lifecommunitycustomer-servicedkpdndDoug-CronkhiteDungeons-and-Dragonseqeq-nexteq2eqiieqoaeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-online-adventuresexpansionf2pfree-to-playgame-breakergame-mastergmhousingLydia-Popemlbneeeeerdsnorrathplanes-of-powerplanetsideplayer-housingraidraidingscars-of-veliousshadows-of-luclinsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentswamp-of-sonythe-game-archaeologistthe-ruins-of-kunarkthom-terrazasthree-stoogesunderwearvanguardTue, 18 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The vets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-vets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-vets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-neverending-quest-the-vets/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We just had to start 2011 in style, didn't we? I knew that by invoking the sacred name of EverQuest, I'd be opening the door for thousands of collective years' worth of memories, opinions, frustrations, nostalgia, gushing and blocky screenshots. But the Game Archaeologist fears not even the greatest mountain in MMO legend; it had to be climbed sooner or later. And of course, who better to guide you up the mountain than a few EQ Sherpas who know the way? Sure, they might try to steal the idol and not throw me the whip in the end, but that was a very real risk I was willing to take to get the full story.

So today I'd like to introduce you to three EverQuest veterans who are all now world-famous bloggers. If you sense a connection between these two facts, I will only hint at the possibility of a secret society in SOE's headquarters that bestows great blessings upon its faithful fans.

Hit the jump to meet this EQ trio and hear what they had to say about the MMO that profoundly affected their playing careers!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The vets

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the NeverEnding Quest: The vets originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011asherons-callbrenda-hollowaybutcherblockdwarfeqeruditeescape-to-norratheve-onlineeverquestfinal-fantasy-xifrom-the-bridgegates-of-discordlineageMathew-Reuthermeridian-59mmo-voices-podcastmudnext-genplane-of-hateplane-of-timeplanes-of-powerqeynosraidraidingriftrift-watchersroguesherpassoesony-online-entertainmenttgathe-game-archaeologisttipatrialultima-onlinevagary.tvwarhammer-onlinewest-karanawizardworld-of-warcraftTue, 11 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Why don't you like PvE?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/the-daily-grind-why-dont-you-like-pve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/the-daily-grind-why-dont-you-like-pve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/the-daily-grind-why-dont-you-like-pve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You might know that it's not real. You might be reminding yourself that all you're fighting are lines of computer code sitting on a server somewhere with no connection to a real heroic struggle. But if you're even remotely a fan of fantasy, when you find yourself drawing your weapon of choice against a dragon, you can't help but identify with a long-held tradition. There's a reason many players will judge a game solely on its PvE -- while PvP is all about balance and mechanics, PvE is all about showing you something new and amazing.

But we come here to bury PvE, not praise it. Maybe you get annoyed, from time to time, at the thought that all you're really doing is dancing according to a known pattern in tune with computer code. Maybe you don't like realizing that all of your accomplishments will be reset along a set pattern. Or maybe you're just not a fan of fighting internet dragons when you could fight real opponents sitting behind a keyboard. Whatever your reason, tell us -- why don't you like PvE?

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: Why don't you like PvE? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>content-resetsdungeonsinstanced-contentinstancesinstancinginternet-dragonsopinionplayer-versus-environmentpveraidraidingraidstdgthe-daily-grindThu, 06 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Always in motion is the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/hyperspace-beacon-always-in-motion-is-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/hyperspace-beacon-always-in-motion-is-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/hyperspace-beacon-always-in-motion-is-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Boot your navi-computer, angle your deflector shields, and prepare for the jump to lightspeed. This year will be the greatest year in the history of MMO gaming. I don't mean because Star Wars Galaxies is shutting down, because it's not, and that would be a sad year. I mean that the most anticipated game in the history of MMOs will be released this year. Star Wars: The Old Republic will make its way to our doors and our hearts this spring. (I cross my fingers, hoping for no delay, but I know it's probably inevitable.)

As the release nears, we will certainly see a plethora of updates and secret reveals. We had our share of SWTOR news last year, and as with every game, the hype-machine presses on with a fevered fervor towards its zenith. There is so much we know about this game already, yet at the same time, we know very little. We are really like a Miraluka on a Vong ship. (You get 500 fanboy points if you understand that reference.) We keep bumping into walls, but we don't really see the whole picture. Honestly, I question whether I want to know the whole picture before the game is released.

Let's tap into our Force foresight a bit today to see whether we can muster a few visions. Maybe we'll see a city in the clouds; maybe we'll see our friends being tortured. Maybe we'll find out we are really Revan! What will be revealed in 2011? Follow me after the break to find out!

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Always in motion is the future

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Always in motion is the future originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareblaine-christinecustomizationEAElectronic-ArtsendgamefeaturedLucasArtsplanetplanetsPredictionsraidingRevanshipshipsspaceshipspaceshipsspeciesspeculationStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 04 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Guild Counsel: New Year's resolutions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-guild-counsel-new-years-resolutions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-guild-counsel-new-years-resolutions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/30/the-guild-counsel-new-years-resolutions/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This past year for me has been the best year of my guild-leading life, primarily because I'm surrounded by terrific players who are also terrific people. We've had times when key members step away from raiding, and immediately I'll have several members volunteer to roll up new characters to fill the void and meet class needs. We've had issues, as all guilds do, and we have had disagreements, but I'm guilded with people who are classy enough and level-headed enough to understand the big picture and give the benefit of the doubt.

As I raise my glass to toast my guildmates, I also look forward to next year. As guild leaders know, you can never rest on your laurels, and I have several New Year's resolutions. Read on to see what I hope to accomplish, and then share your resolutions for 2011.

Continue reading The Guild Counsel: New Year's resolutions

MassivelyThe Guild Counsel: New Year's resolutions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>end-of-the-year-2010fan-fairefeaturedguildguild-adviceguild-dramaguild-leadershipguild-managementguild-meetguild-meetupguild-websiteguildsnew-years-resolutionsPAXpax-eastraidingThu, 30 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Arithion from The Rift Podcast visits Trion, investigates the endgame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/arithion-from-the-rift-podcast-visits-trion-investigates-the-en/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/arithion-from-the-rift-podcast-visits-trion-investigates-the-en/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/arithion-from-the-rift-podcast-visits-trion-investigates-the-en/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This week, Arithion from the RIFT Podcast temporarily traded in her microphone for a camera and traveled to Trion Worlds to get a firsthand look at RIFT. While we've heard a lot about features like the dynamic invasions and the soul system, Ari was determined to investigate one area of the game that we haven't heard much about -- the endgame. She writes:

"A game needs to have Endgame content in order to appeal to me - and with so many recent games failing to deliver precisely that, I was resigned to the fact that RIFT would probably do the same and I'd end up with a game to pass the time for a couple of months before subjecting me to the boredom of nothing to play until the next thing comes out. I was wrong."

Happily, she reports that RIFT has some exciting endgame content, including two raid instances and many raid rifts, which she describes as "magnificent, difficult, (and) damn impressive." Head to The RIFT to read more about her visit and details on RIFT's raid content.

MassivelyArithion from The Rift Podcast visits Trion, investigates the endgame originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arithiondungeondungeonsendgameinstanceinstancespodcastraid-riftsraidingriftrift-planes-of-telararift-podcasttriontrion-worldsFri, 17 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: The mysteries of UNITY]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/behind-the-mask-the-mysteries-of-unity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/behind-the-mask-the-mysteries-of-unity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/behind-the-mask-the-mysteries-of-unity/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you've never made the trip to level 40 in Champions Online, the endgame is somewhat of a mystery. I remember prior to getting my first level 40 that people would talk about things like "Nemcon" and "dailies." I found it kind of strange that a level 35 character couldn't sidekick or otherwise experience anything similar to these things. That all changed for me when I journeyed into the UNITY building for the first time.

It was a little confusing -- there were no easy guides telling me where to start NemCon or what the "Qliphothic research" was for. Fortunately, you guys don't have to feel as much like a noob as I did.

Warning: This article includes some spoilers for the plot of NemCon.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: The mysteries of UNITY

MassivelyBehind the Mask: The mysteries of UNITY originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosendgameendgame-contentnemesisnemesis-confrontationnemesis-systempveraidingunityThu, 16 Dec 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: A parent's look at World of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/mmo-family-a-parents-look-at-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

World of Warcraft? Yeah, even folks who don't play video games at all have heard of this behemoth of MMO gaming. With 12 million subscribers worldwide, the WoW phenomenon has practically come to define an entire generation's worth of MMO gaming. While it's designed for teens and up, the game is so ubiquitous that you wouldn't have to dig far to find players of all ages, including many teens but also younger children as well.

With a new expansion, World of Warcraft: Cataclysm, due for release on December 7th, plenty of kids (and grownups) will be angling for WoW in their holiday stockings. The question is: Is WoW a good fit for your kids? With good preparation and consistent parent moderation, it can be -- but if you don't play the game yourself or you take a more hands-off approach to gaming, you may want to wait until your little goblin- or worgen-to-be is well into the teen years. Join us after the break for an insider's look at WoW for younger children and teens.

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at World of Warcraft

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at World of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cataclysmchild-friendlychildrenetiquettefamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-gamingfeaturedgroupinggroupsguildskid-friendlymmo-familynetiquetteparentsraidingsupervisionteenagersteensworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 30 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/mmo-family-mind-your-massively-multiplayer-manners/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family, from tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate online games for everyone in the family.

Kids are like sponges, sure -- old saying is old. But are online manners something you really want to leave to chance? Are the interactions your kids so intently follow online the manners you want them soaking up and using themselves? As parents, we know that the habits and attitudes that kids pick up today are what we'll find coming right back at us tomorrow. Teens who are used to trolling in games and forums will have a hard time modulating to a less strident tone in a business meeting. Kids who excuse a lack of scruples with "whatever -- it's only the internet" are due for a big surprise when a thoughtless instant message or careless lack of response to an email slams doors in their faces later in life.

As parents who game, we all have hot buttons that set us off: the guy who always shows up late to raids, beggars, you name it. The point is: Have you talked to your kids yet about these behaviors? Are you explicitly (by both word and example) helping them not to grow up to be That Guy?

I'm pretty sure we don't need a primer in online etiquette here at Massively, but I don't think it would hurt to share some of the things we wish Those Other Parents had taught their kids before turning them loose in our games. I'll share my dirty dozen after the break -- won't you share your own in the comments?

Continue reading MMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners

MassivelyMMO Family: Mind your massively multiplayer manners originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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