Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[RIFT introduces three-faction PvP with Conquest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rift-introduces-three-faction-pvp-with-conquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rift-introduces-three-faction-pvp-with-conquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rift-introduces-three-faction-pvp-with-conquest/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

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

[Thanks to Valorith for the tip!]

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction-pvpbreakingconquestconquest-pvpconquest-pvp-modefantasyplayer-vs-playerptspublic-test-serverpvprealm-vs-realmriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvptriontrion-worldsMon, 14 May 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Dark Age of Camelot video shows off relic raid test-run]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/new-dark-age-of-camelot-video-shows-off-relic-raid-test-run/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/new-dark-age-of-camelot-video-shows-off-relic-raid-test-run/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/new-dark-age-of-camelot-video-shows-off-relic-raid-test-run/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Dark Age of Camelot
Realm-vs.-realm combat pioneer Dark Age of Camelot is seeing a number of changes to the relic raid system in the upcoming patch 1.112, and last Wednesday the devs gathered a bunch of guillible cannon fod-- err, brave adventurers to help them test out the new updates with an all-out relic raiding brawl.

Mythic figured that an event of such magnitude shouldn't go unnoticed, so the studio recorded the ordeal and put together a lovely little video full of an incredible amount of death, destruction, and general RvR chaos. Which faction will reign supreme in this rumble for the relic? Well, there's only one way to find out: Go see for yourself!

Continue reading New Dark Age of Camelot video shows off relic raid test-run

MassivelyNew Dark Age of Camelot video shows off relic raid test-run originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecamelotclassic-mmodaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsfantasymythicmythic-entertainmentmythologypatch-1.112pvpraidraidsrealm-vs-realmrelicrelic-raidrelic-raidsrvrtrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 16 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Kesmai legacy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-kesmai-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-kesmai-legacy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-kesmai-legacy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Air Warrior
Most studios would be overjoyed to have pioneered one significant advancement in video game history, but then again, most studios aren't Kesmai. While it's not a household name today, it's reasonable to say that without the heavy lifting and backbreaking coding that this company shouldered in the '80s and '90s, the MMO genre would've turned out very different indeed.

Last week we met two enterprising designers, Kelton Flinn and John Taylor, who recognized that multiplayer was the name of the future and put their careers on the line to see an idea through to completion. That idea was Island of Kesmai, an ancestor of the modern MMO that used crude ASCII graphics and CompuServe's network to provide an interactive, cooperative online roleplaying experience. It wasn't the first MMO, but it was the first one published commercially, and sometimes that makes all the difference.

Flinn and Taylor's Kesmai didn't stop with being the first to bring MMOs to the big time, however. Flush with cash and success, Kesmai turned its attention to the next big multiplayer challenge: 3-D graphics and real-time combat. Unlike the fantasy land of Island of Kesmai, this title would take to the skies in aerial dogfighting and prove even more popular than the team's previous project.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Kesmai legacy

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Kesmai legacy originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air-warriorair-warrior-for-windowsair-warrior-iiair-warrior-iiialiens-onlineaolbattlefield-1942cd-romChris-Holdenclassicclassic-mmosclassicscompuservedark-age-of-camelotdungeons-of-kesmaieaelectronic-artseverquestfeaturedgame-archaelogistgame-developers-conference-choice-awardsgamespotgamestormgdcgdc-choice-awardsgenieharpoon-onlineisland-of-kesmaijohn-taylorkelton-flinnkesmaikesmai-corporationkesmai-studioslegends-of-kesmaimark-jacobsmatchmakingmeridian-59Multiplayer-Battletechmythicnews-corpnostalgiaonline-game-legend-awardopinionrealm-vs-realmrvrthe-game-archaeologistultima-onlinewarwarhammer-onlineythic-entertainmentTue, 13 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Age of Camelot producer's letter looks toward the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-age-of-camelot-producers-letter-looks-toward-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-age-of-camelot-producers-letter-looks-toward-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-age-of-camelot-producers-letter-looks-toward-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Screenshot -- Dark Age of Camelot
Dark Age of Camelot's Valentine's Day event is still in full swing, but the devs over at Mythic Entertainment have plenty more in store for players. Stuart Zissu, DAoC's producer, stopped by the official site to give players a heads-up as to what they can expect in upcoming updates. For starters, the next phase of the ongoing live event will be coming sometime "in the next few months," and players are warned that the Pict encampments they've already encountered are only the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

On top of that, the devs will be adding a number of new titles throughout the year that center on the long-running title's 10th anniversary. Zissu adds that "there will also be new titles for the next phase of the live event" as well as a special trophy commemorating Dark Age of Camelot's 10 years of RvRvR action. For more information, including details on DAoC's first video contest, just click on through the link below and give the post a look.

MassivelyDark Age of Camelot producer's letter looks toward the future originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelotdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsletter-from-the-producerlive-eventlive-eventsmythicmythic-entertainmentproducers-letterrealm-vs-realmrvrrvrvrstuart-zissutitletitlestrophiestrophyWed, 15 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist celebrates Dark Age of Camelot's 10th anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/the-game-archaeologist-celebrates-dark-age-of-camelots-10th-ann/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/the-game-archaeologist-celebrates-dark-age-of-camelots-10th-ann/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/the-game-archaeologist-celebrates-dark-age-of-camelots-10th-ann/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dark Age of Camelot
Last month was a historic occasion for MMOs, as Dark Age of Camelot joined the exclusive Decade Club, turning 10 years old and making most of us sit down heavily and wonder, "Has it really been that long?"

It has indeed. You may wish to invest in a calendar. While it might be a tad tardy, I got the chance to interview the ever-busy Mythic about this milestone... and here it is!

The Game Archaeologist: Could you please introduce yourself, your role on the team, and the faction for which you live, breathe and sleep?

Stuart Zissu: I am Stuart Zissu, producer on Dark Age of Camelot. Asking which Realm I prefer is like asking which child is my favorite, I love them all! They all have their advantages and disadvantages, and each one brings something different to the table. With that said, my first level 50 was an Albion Enhancement Friar (before Enhancement Friars were "viable").

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist celebrates Dark Age of Camelot's 10th anniversary

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist celebrates Dark Age of Camelot's 10th anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.110-patch10th-anniversarybioware-mythicdaocdark-age-of-camelotf2pfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewmythicmythic-entertainmentpatch-1.110realm-vs-realmrvrStuart-Zissuten-yearsten-years-oldtenth-anniversaryultima-onlineuowarwarhammer-onlinewrath-of-heroesTue, 29 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online's patch 1.4.4 on the public test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/warhammer-onlines-patch-1-4-4-on-the-public-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/warhammer-onlines-patch-1-4-4-on-the-public-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/warhammer-onlines-patch-1-4-4-on-the-public-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4.4eaelectronic-artskeep-defensemythicmythic-entertainmentpatch-1.4.4ptspublic-test-serverrealm-vs-realmrvrwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineWed, 07 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamescom 2011: ASTA video talks design philosophy and DAoC inspiration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-asta-video-talks-design-philosophy-and-daoc-inspi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-asta-video-talks-design-philosophy-and-daoc-inspi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/gamescom-2011-asta-video-talks-design-philosophy-and-daoc-inspi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

ASTA - caster
Last month we brought you a brief blurb about ASTA, the new fantasy MMORPG from NHN. The CryEngine3-powered title is making its official debut at this week's Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, and a six-minute video trailer has surfaced that shows off quite a bit of detail about the new title.

The clip features a lot of concept art, behind-the-scenes shots, and talking-head developer interviews as well as an English-dubbed voiceover that's heavy on lore and backstory bits. There's also a lot of commentary regarding ASTA's design philosophy as well as how the developers are striving to avoid Asian MMO cliches to create a title that is original yet familiar.

Finally, the video lets us in on the fact that ASTA is aimed at players "who are not very good at controlling the keyboard and the mouse simultaneously." Despite its apparent simplicity, ASTA will be featuring RvR and PvP mechanics designed specifically to facilitate large-scale conflict rather than small-party skirmishes or duels. Dark Age of Camelot fans may be interested to know that the ASTA video specifically references the older title as inspirational material, and you can find that and more after the cut.

Continue reading Gamescom 2011: ASTA video talks design philosophy and DAoC inspiration

MassivelyGamescom 2011: ASTA video talks design philosophy and DAoC inspiration originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astacryengine-3daocdark-age-of-cameloteastern-fantasyfantasygame-mechanicsgamescomgamescom-2011loremechanicsnhnpvpreal-world-eventsrealm-vs-realmrvrtrailervideoWed, 17 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ASTA showing off its CryEngine3 visuals at Gamescom]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/asta-showing-off-its-cryengine3-visuals-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/asta-showing-off-its-cryengine3-visuals-at-gamescom/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/07/asta-showing-off-its-cryengine3-visuals-at-gamescom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you were fortunate enough to attend this year's GDC, it's possible you caught a glimpse of ASTA, the new fantasy MMO from NHN. The title, formerly known as Project E:st, is powered by the CryEngine3 and boasts some of the more impressive visuals in the MMO space.

Assuming you can make it to Cologne, Germany, for this year's Gamescom (August 17th through the 21st), you'll get another opportunity to see ASTA in action since NHN will be offering visitors "a first look at the captivating world [...] as well as the opportunity to chat with the developers and learn more about character development, guild evolution, competitive play, and many other features," according to a new press release.

ASTA is being developed by Polygon Games (which includes a core group of designers who previously worked on Rohan: Blood Feud), and it takes place in a world inspired by Asian myth. Gameplay elements include realm vs. realm, PvE questing, raids, and crafting.

MassivelyASTA showing off its CryEngine3 visuals at Gamescom originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astacraftingcryengine-3cryengine3fantasygamescomgamescom-2011graphicsnhnnhn-corppress-releaseproject-e:stpverealm-vs-realmrvrvisualsThu, 07 Jul 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Age of Camelot launches new website]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/dark-age-of-camelot-launches-new-website/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/dark-age-of-camelot-launches-new-website/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/dark-age-of-camelot-launches-new-website/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's extreme makeover time for Dark Age of Camelot's website, and it's a good thing too. The game launched in late 2001, and while its former web portal wasn't quite GeoCities-awful, let's just say it was time for an update in terms of aesthetics and layout.

The new version of The Herald is leaner, meaner, and much easier to navigate, though it does come with an "under construction" caveat. DAoC producer Stuart Zissu provides users with a brief introduction to the new site via an embedded video on the front page, and he also hints at the long-running title's 10th anniversary celebration currently scheduled for October.

Head to the official website to, er... check out the new official website.

MassivelyDark Age of Camelot launches new website originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10th-anniversarybiowarebioware-mythicdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsfantasyheraldmythicMythic-Entertainmentnew-websiterealm-vs-realmrvrstuart-zissutenth-anniversarythe-heraldwebsiteWed, 15 Jun 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Age of Camelot releases version 1.109]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/dark-age-of-camelot-releases-version-1-109/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/dark-age-of-camelot-releases-version-1-109/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/dark-age-of-camelot-releases-version-1-109/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's pretty fashionable to declare the MMO subscription model dead nowadays. Given the meteoric rise of F2P and the swarms of new titles that are blotting out the sun, it's easy to overlook the fact that some of the genre's oldest titles are still soldiering on with no end to their success in sight.

One such title is Dark Age of Camelot. Mythic's fantasy stalwart -- released way back in October of 2001 -- continues to crank out updates nearly a decade later, with today's version 1.109 being the latest example. The patch features a few class balance tweaks, including the addition of a reactive snare proc to the Bard's dreamweaver ability, as well as the usual bug fixes and client optimization tweaks.

Also noteworthy is the removal of housing rent, which Mythic's patch notes indicate is a concession to the recent disasters in Japan (and the inability of some players to log into the game and maintain their property). Check out the patch announcement and the full notes on the official Dark Age of Camelot website.

MassivelyDark Age of Camelot releases version 1.109 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancebardbardsclass-balancedaocdark-age-of-camelotdreamweaverfantasyhousingmythicpatchesrealm-vs-realmrvrsnaressubscriptionupdatesWed, 27 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Age of Camelot keeps its eyes firmly fixed on RvR for 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/08/dark-age-of-camelot-keeps-its-eyes-firmly-fixed-on-rvr-for-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/08/dark-age-of-camelot-keeps-its-eyes-firmly-fixed-on-rvr-for-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/08/dark-age-of-camelot-keeps-its-eyes-firmly-fixed-on-rvr-for-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

"Realm vs. Realm combat is what keeps you here year after year," Stuart Zissu concludes in the Dark Age of Camelot's January newsletter. Because of this fact, Zissu reassures players that Mythic is firmly committed to strengthening and focusing on DAoC's RvR in 2011.

Zissu first addresses a number of important issues that the team is tackling, such as lag ghosting. Realm abilities are also being adjusted to include several additional levels. While these new levels won't add to the overall strength of the abilities, they do allow players to fine-tune just how much (or little) of these abilities they want to have. A few of the realm abilities will be improved on a case-by-case basis, however.

He also highlights the next upcoming live event, which will revolve around the return of demonic invasions. Those wacky demons -- like frat boys out of control, they are!

You can read the full newsletter over on the Camelot Herald.

MassivelyDark Age of Camelot keeps its eyes firmly fixed on RvR for 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelotcamelot-heralddaocdark-age-of-camelotdemonic-invasionea-mythiclaglag-ghostinglive-eventlive-eventsmythicmythic-entertainmentnewsletterpvprealm-abilitiesrealm-vs-realmrvrstuart-zissuSat, 08 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Dark Age of Camelot patch goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/new-dark-age-of-camelot-patch-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/new-dark-age-of-camelot-patch-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/new-dark-age-of-camelot-patch-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


BioWare-Mythic's Dark Age of Camelot is like a grizzled veteran soldier trapped deep behind enemy lines with nothing more than a bayonet and a can of rations -- no matter how bleak or hopeless things get, the old cuss just refuses to die. Incidentally, how weird is it to mention BioWare in a Dark Age of Camelot post? Anyway, I digress.

Today marks the latest update to the long-running realm vs. realm MMORPG, and version 1.107 brings a few noteworthy changes to the endless fray. Chief among them is a class balance tweak that allows Savages to train the Realm Ability Charge. The powers-that-be have also lightened up on the stiff penalties for not paying your rent, as player housing contents will now be repossessed (as opposed to destroyed) when you fail to pay the landlord on time. Finally, Mythic has switched the realm timer back on, and it will now take five minutes to swap realms on the same cluster.

For a full listing of the patch changes, visit the official website.

MassivelyNew Dark Age of Camelot patch goes live originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-mythicdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaElectronic-Artshousingmythicmythic-eaMythic-Entertainmentpatchpatch-notesrealm-vs-realmrvrsavagesupdateversion-1.107Thu, 04 Nov 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Quest for Camelot: A talk with Mark Jacobs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-quest-for-camelot-a-talk-with-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-quest-for-camelot-a-talk-with-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-quest-for-camelot-a-talk-with-ma/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Life is full of serendipitous moments. For example, the other day I found the Holy Grail at a garage sale while looking through a box of half-broken Transformers. Who would have thought? If only the Knights Templar took a few Saturdays off from their epic quest to do a bit of bargain shopping.

Consider also that this month we've been reminiscing about Dark Age of Camelot in this column -- looking at the history, the devs, and the players -- and then, out of nowhere (well, technically Virginia) one of the key figures of this title returned from a year-long sabbatical. Mark Jacobs, who was let go from EA last June, recently popped back up on his personal blog to talk about everything under the sun.

Hey -- isn't DAoC under the sun? Why yes, yes it is. So I threw on my hiking boots, strapped a machete to my thigh, hired a Sherpa, and then composed a quick message to see if Mr. Jacobs would be willing to be interviewed by the eccentric media. He agreed, as long as we stuck to the topic at hand and didn't veer into his plans for world domination. Whoops... I've said too much. Hit the jump before I get into hot water. My Sherpa hates hot water.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Quest for Camelot: A talk with Mark Jacobs

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Quest for Camelot: A talk with Mark Jacobs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air-warriorclass-balancedaocdark-age-of-camelotea-mythiceqeverquestfeaturedgarage-salehive-mindinto-infinitykesmaiknights-templarmark-jacobsmythicMythic-Entertainmentpvepvprealm-vs-realmrtsrvrsherpasherpa-not-shirpastarcraft-2the-game-archaeologisttrials-of-atlantisultima-onlineuovirginiavirginia-is-for-lovers-and-mmo-developerswarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 24 Aug 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Quest for Camelot: The history]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-quest-for-camelot-the-history/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-quest-for-camelot-the-history/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-quest-for-camelot-the-history/#commentsFiled under: , ,

After a two-week hiatus to recover from rattlesnake bites and a bear to the face, the Game Archeologist returns to travel to England, but not the England we know today. No, this is the England-That-Could-Have-Been, the England of King Arthur, Excalibur and pointy-hatted Vikings. This is the England of fairy tales and legends and blocky 2001-era polygon models. It is the England of three realms constantly jockeying for supremacy and power. It is Dark Age of Camelot.

It's a pretty awesome place to live, even though the property values are way, way down after the last 18 marauding hordes trampled through the neighborhood.

This month, the Game Archaeologist is trading in his copyright-infringement fedora and whip for a sturdy suit of armor and a fiery sword as he slashes his way into Dark Age of Camelot. It doesn't matter if it's only a model -- it still inspires him to break out into song anyway.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Quest for Camelot: The history

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Quest for Camelot: The history originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>albionanarchy-onlineartifactsasherons-callbioware-mythicbrooke-pilleydaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkness-fallsea-mythiceverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexcaliburexpansionsfeaturedgrindhiberniahousingking-arthurlineagemaster-levelsmidgardmotor-city-onlinemudmythicMythic-Entertainmentplayer-versus-playerpvprealm-vs-realmrunescapervrshrouded-islesthe-game-archaeologisttrials-of-atlantisultima-onlineuovikingswarwarhammer-onlinewheres-waldo-in-tagsWorld-of-Warcraftworld-war-ii-onlineTue, 03 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aika announces closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/aika-announces-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/aika-announces-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/aika-announces-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you're looking for some more RvR action outside of Warhammer Online, then you might want to take a look at Gala-Net's newest addition to their MMO lineup, Aika.

Aika is a new free-to-play MMO with the same type of nation versus nation bent that Warhammer and World of Warcraft provide to their players. Players get to defend territory during castle sieges, can steal artifacts from the enemy side, a la Dark Age of Camelot, and participate in the standard PvP battlegrounds.

The game has just gone into a closed beta testing phase for America, but getting in couldn't be simpler. Simply go visit the Aika website, fill out a survey and you'll be entered for a chance to participate in the closed beta.

MassivelyAika announces closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The two kingdoms of Rogwel and Elerd are finally facing off on the territory of Rope Isle for control of the neo steam! Yes, realm vs. realm combat is finally being enabled on the Neo Steam servers, letting players go at it for control of new stretches of land and the dungeons that dwell beneath. Players will be able to both fight on foot and in siege engines for the glory of their kingdom!

However, realm vs. realm combat in Neo Steam works a bit differently than most MMOs. For one, it's actually timed. Currently you can only engage in RvR once every weekend. Once a side wins the battle, the areas are locked until the next week.

Continue reading Neo Steam opens realm vs. realm combat and new dungeons

MassivelyNeo Steam opens realm vs. realm combat and new dungeons originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlus-onlinedungeonsgroup-contentneo-steamneo-steam-the-shattered-continentpvpraidsrealm-vs-realmrvrschedulescheduled-pvpTue, 04 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Games Day '09: All about Warhammer Online's live events with Mark Davis]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/games-day-09-all-about-warhammer-onlines-live-events-with-mar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/games-day-09-all-about-warhammer-onlines-live-events-with-mar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/games-day-09-all-about-warhammer-onlines-live-events-with-mar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Mark Davis knows Warhammer Online's live events well. He should, because he's the man behind them! During Games Day '09, we had the chance to catch up with the live events lead and discuss some shop talk with him -- including a look at the newest live event, "Rise of the Tomb Kings," and a little about what goes on behind the scenes.

How long does it take for a live event to be produced? What are some of Mark's favorite moments? What can we expect in the live events to come? And, most importantly, what are we going to find in the Rise of the Tomb Kings? All of these questions, and more, are answered within!

Continue reading Games Day '09: All about Warhammer Online's live events with Mark Davis

MassivelyGames Day '09: All about Warhammer Online's live events with Mark Davis originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 May 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developerdeveloper-interviewfeaturedgames-day-2009games-workshopinterviewsjoystiqfeaturesland-of-the-deadlive-eventsmark-davismetricspqspublic-questsrealm-vs-realmrise-of-the-tomb-kingsrvrwarwarhammer-onlineWed, 13 May 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Games Day '09: Our impressions of Warhammer's Land of the Dead pt. 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/games-day-09-our-impressions-of-warhammers-land-of-the-dead-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/games-day-09-our-impressions-of-warhammers-land-of-the-dead-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/games-day-09-our-impressions-of-warhammers-land-of-the-dead-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


Get caught in one of the clouds and you'll find yourself teleported to the bottom of one of the nearby tombs, stuck in a sarcophagus, and taking damage from the curse. Your friends can't get into the tombs due to barriers that are placed over the doors, turning this into a race to get out of the tomb before you die. These moments were filled with frantic cheers and laughter as we all danced around trying to avoid the dust clouds, accompanied by laughs of anguish as people would get caught and stuck inside of the tomb.

Overall, the PQs are really enjoyable and a nice step away from "kill, rinse, repeat." Even if they involve killing monsters, there's usually some sort of trick to the PQ that makes it into a very active experience, rather than a strict button mashing period. Plus if that last boss battle sounded crazy, think of how it could go when the zone flips sides and the enemy begins running in. Now you have a boss, enemy players, and dust clouds. Fights in the tombs while curse is in effect, anyone? Luring enemies to stand in the way of dust clouds?

Eventually though, we were taken away from the PQs and had the chance to step into the Tomb of the Vulure Lord itself -- testing our mettle against the various traps. The first one that stood in our way was a hallway filled with swinging pendulum blades.

These blades were stacked very close together, with little room between them to stand without getting yourself sliced in half. One hit kills you, so don't try running through aimlessly because it's not going to end well. This trap is all about timing, placement, and pattern recognition -- a classic console adventure trap. What I liked the most about these traps was that they don't require the whole party to make it. Three people is all you need out of your group of six, and dying in the dungeon will just respawn you at the entrance (as long as you maintain control, of course.)

"It's very different, and it's alot of fun."
Eventually making it past that trap gave us access to the Terracotta Army hall -- a room filled with terracotta statues of soldiers and chariots. The whole room could be categorized under "things that never end well" because, as you would expect, walking next to some statues causes them to come to life. This whole encounter is a hybrid PQ/boss battle, as killing enough soldiers will awaken the final boss of the room, an angry skeleton who switches between different stances while you do battle with him.

Overall, I have to admit, I wasn't expecting this. I was expecting an area and a dungeon filled with standard MMO trappings of trash mob pulls, boring grindfests, and RvR mixed in with all of that. What I got was a very carefully crafted zone that caters to all types of MMO players and merges PvP content with PvE content in a really inventive fashion. Even the Tomb of the Vulture Lord doesn't feel like a traditional MMO dungeon. It's an adventure through a tomb rather than a series of trash pulls with scary bosses. It tells a story and immerses you rather than just throwing themed encounters at you. Sure, this mystique will wear off over time, but I don't see this dungeon becoming something like other MMO dungeons. It's very different, and it's alot of fun. Land of the Dead is totally something you need to experience.
The sands of the Tomb Kings are coming as the final release in the Call to Arms live expansion, the Land of the Dead approaches! Massively has your back with coverage from Mythic Entertainment at Games Day '09, so get your WAAGGGHHH ready for RvR mayhem as Massively re-arms for WAR!

MassivelyGames Day '09: Our impressions of Warhammer's Land of the Dead pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 May 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-to-armsdarkness-fallsgames-daygames-day-2009games-workshophands-onimpressionsland-of-the-deadmythicmythic-entertainmentopinionpqspublic-questspvepvprealm-vs-realmrvrtomb-of-the-vulture-lordwarwarhammer-onlineMon, 11 May 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Games Day '09: Our impressions of Warhammer's Land of the Dead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/games-day-09-our-impressions-of-warhammers-land-of-the-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/games-day-09-our-impressions-of-warhammers-land-of-the-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/games-day-09-our-impressions-of-warhammers-land-of-the-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


So we've been over the cold, unfeeling facts about Land of the Dead. It's big, it's a throwback zone to action RPGs, it has RvR and PvE, and it's filled with mummies. But you don't want the facts, right? You want to know how it plays and you want to know if it's worth your time to pick up Warhammer or resubscribe to the game.

During my time at Games Day, I got the chance to participate in a bunch of the PQs in the new zone and try out a few areas of the Tomb of the Vulture Lord, the capstone dungeon of the whole experience. I got to be shanked by swinging blades, pierced by surprise dart traps, and I even got to wear the Sovereign armor set, the pinnacle armor of the game. (Yes, it looks completely badass.)

Continue reading Games Day '09: Our impressions of Warhammer's Land of the Dead

MassivelyGames Day '09: Our impressions of Warhammer's Land of the Dead originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 May 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-to-armsdarkness-fallsfeaturedgames-daygames-day-2009games-workshophands-onimpressionsjoystiqfeaturesland-of-the-deadmythic-entertainmentopinionpqspublic-questspvepvprealm-vs-realmrvrtomb-of-the-vulture-lordwarwarhammer-onlineMon, 11 May 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Games Day '09: An overview of the Land of the Dead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/games-day-09-an-overview-of-the-land-of-the-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/games-day-09-an-overview-of-the-land-of-the-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/11/games-day-09-an-overview-of-the-land-of-the-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


You've heard us talk about it, you've heard us discuss it, and it's now time for us to tell you exactly what it's all about. Land of the Dead is not your father's MMO dungeon -- it's a dungeon that is something more than just a dungeon. It's an entire zone filled with activities and sub-dungeons, all culminating in an epic instanced dungeon that features a face off with the first leader of the Tomb Kings himself, King Amenemhetum. (Try saying that five times fast. Heck, try saying that one time fast. Not even Gabe Amatangelo, one of the chief designers, can say that name properly. He got close to it though during his Games Day presentation.)

So how do you get down to test wits with the Tomb Kings? What public quests and objectives are scattered throughout the zone? What changes and improvements are coming with this addition to the game? Read on warriors, and find out!

Continue reading Games Day '09: An overview of the Land of the Dead

MassivelyGames Day '09: An overview of the Land of the Dead originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 May 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgfeaturedgames-daygames-day-2009glyphsjoystiqfeaturesland-of-the-deadmythic-entertainmentnecropolispublic-questpurgerealm-vs-realmrvrsigilstomb-of-the-vulture-lordwardswarhammer-onlineMon, 11 May 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates to get more RvR love from Flying Lab Software]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/05/pirates-to-get-more-rvr-love-from-flying-lab-software/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/05/pirates-to-get-more-rvr-love-from-flying-lab-software/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/05/pirates-to-get-more-rvr-love-from-flying-lab-software/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Pirates are always the underdogs in MMOs, aren't they? That seems to be the case in Pirates of the Burning Sea, where the Pirate nation has been at a disadvantage with the game's Conquest system. While their ports can't be controlled (permanently) by another nation, they're likewise unable to keep the ports they conquer. The latest devlog from Flying Lab's Lum is titled Pirates and Conquest and addresses this disparity between the Pirate nation and all other nations in the game.

One solution they plan to implement is increasing the four points that Pirates gain by capturing a port to five. Lum explains, "Currently, Pirates get four points every time they Raid a port, while Nationals get 10. This means that for a Pirate to keep pace with Nationals, they have to win three port battles in order to get the same amount of points. Since every nation can only attack three ports at a time, this means that Pirates would always have to have their maximum amount of attacking ports at all times, and then they have to win all of those battles." Ouch. However, by increasing their capture points to five, Pirates will only have to win two battles and won't need to maintain constant port attacks to stay on par with other nations.

Continue reading Pirates to get more RvR love from Flying Lab Software

MassivelyPirates to get more RvR love from Flying Lab Software originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capture-pointsconquestconquest-systemdev-blogdevlogfantasyflying-labflying-lab-softwaregame-mechanicsguildshistoricallummartial-lawpirate-nationpiratesport-battleportspotbspvpraided-staterealm-vs-realmrvrSun, 05 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic's Carrie Gouskos on Warhammer's ToK and hints of patch 1.3 ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/mythics-carrie-gouskos-on-warhammers-tok-and-hints-of-patch-1-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/mythics-carrie-gouskos-on-warhammers-tok-and-hints-of-patch-1-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/mythics-carrie-gouskos-on-warhammers-tok-and-hints-of-patch-1-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The 1.2 patch for Warhammer Online is barely a week old, but Chaos Moon managed to speak with Mythic's Carrie Gouskos about many a things -- including some hints for the 1.3 patch. There was also some general discussion of future updates to the Tome of Knowledge and much love from Carrie concerning the Book of Grudges mod. We're pretty excited to hear stat tracking for Scenarios and oRvR battles are on their way.

Of course the big news concerns clues of what to expect in the next big patch. Following some of Carrie's comments, it sounds as though the Tome of Knowledge could be getting a new feature or two in the 1.3. update. Additionally, some further UI information and visual improvements are on the was as well -- although Carrie mentions the visual boost will be minor.

What sorts of UI improvements could be on the way? The added layer of information to the open party and world map systems in 1.2 have been very well received, but going from Carrie's comments it seems as though something much more exciting is on the way. Given the size of the first two live events, something tells us Mythic will be showing off whatever it is they're working on next in a big way.
Warhammer Online Coverage Mythic has announced the first expansion to Warhammer Online! Check out the announcement itself, the two brand-new classes coming to the game, and the enormous new dungeon/zone slated for a few months away! Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyMythic's Carrie Gouskos on Warhammer's ToK and hints of patch 1.3 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carrie-gouskoseaelectronic-artsgames-workshopmodsmythicmythic-entertainmentopen-rvrorvrpvprealm-vs-realmrumorscenariostome-of-knowledgewarwar-patch-1.2war-patch-1.3warhammerwarhammer-onlineMon, 09 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online opens public test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/17/warhammer-online-opens-public-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/17/warhammer-online-opens-public-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/17/warhammer-online-opens-public-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Massively multiplayer online games are continually changing, from the time a game launches to the day the servers shut down. Sure, patch notes spell out most of those changes, but it's always good when an MMO developer opens up a test server for the players. It allows you to check out new game mechanics firsthand, risk-free, and see what works for you and what doesn't. More importantly, it lets the developer know what they need to improve. This is what Mythic Entertainment is doing for Warhammer Online players as of today (Tuesday, February 17th), letting them preview the changes coming to Realm vs. Realm combat as well as Career balance changes on the public test server.

Mythic will be conducting a large scale Tier 4 Open Field Realm vs. Realm test on Wednesday, February 18th at 8pm EST. The dev announcement states: "Bring your friends to the PTS and be amongst the first to experience the new Zone Domination system in a focused player test. Be sure to log on early to join the premade guilds (points of contact for invites will be announced in game) for the night."

Detailed info on how to access the public test server is found in the Warhammer Herald announcement as are the patch notes for the public test of Game Update 1.2.
Warhammer Online Coverage Mythic has announced the first expansion to Warhammer Online! Check out the announcement itself, the two brand-new classes coming to the game, and the enormous new dungeon/zone slated for a few months away! Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyWarhammer Online opens public test server originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>careersclassescombatfantasygame-mechanicsguildsmythic-entertainmentopen-rvrorvrpatchesprofessionspublic-testpublic-test-serverpvprealm-vs-realmrvrtest-serverwarwarhammer-heraldwarhammer-onlinezone-dominationTue, 17 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Herald recommends Book of Grudges mod]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/16/warhammer-herald-recommends-book-of-grudges-mod/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/16/warhammer-herald-recommends-book-of-grudges-mod/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/16/warhammer-herald-recommends-book-of-grudges-mod/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If you're hoping to add a little extra something to Warhammer Online's Realm vs. Realm gameplay, look no further than the "Dammaz Kron: The Great Book of Grudges" mod. Valkea, the creator of Dammaz Kron, describes the mod as a "PvP Black-Book" designed to look like a new section of the Tome of Knowledge. All transgressions against you are recorded in The Great Book of Grudges, as are your own acts of retaliation. Best served cold, and all that.

It's also gotten the nod from Mythic Entertainment. In their words, "The Book of Grudges transforms your fighting experience by adding a meta game and another objective to RvR. Just in case you need another reason to perpetuate the extermination of your enemy Dammaz Kron has your answer." Dammaz Kron can be downloaded from Curse and all the info about the mod is listed there as well.
Warhammer Online Coverage Mythic has announced the first expansion to Warhammer Online! Check out the announcement itself, the two brand-new classes coming to the game, and the enormous new dungeon/zone slated for a few months away! Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyWarhammer Herald recommends Book of Grudges mod originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onsbook-of-grudgescursedammaz-kronfantasygame-mechanicsmodsmythic-entertainmentopen-rvrpvppvp-black-bookrealm-vs-realmrvrthe-great-book-of-grudgestome-of-knowledgewarwarhammer-heraldwarhammer-onlineMon, 16 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: PvP or PvE?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/the-daily-grind-pvp-or-pve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/the-daily-grind-pvp-or-pve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/the-daily-grind-pvp-or-pve/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Are you a ruthless killer or a ruthless killer? Ok, scratch that, bad distinction. A better question is do you prefer to spill the blood of vicious monsters or the blood of players who spill the blood of vicious monsters?

Today's grind question is, if you haven't guessed or read the title by now, would you rather PvP or PvE your way to fame and glory? Are you more of the type to spend lots of time in World of Warcraft's Arenas (when they're not broken) and Warhammer's Realm vs. Realm, or are you the type of person who would fetch that book for old Abercrombie and protect the lands from the invading dark elves?

We're interested in what you have to say on this very divisive issue. Drop us a line in the comment box that's hiding down below this article and tell us if you enjoy your PvE, PvP, or even a combination of both!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: PvP or PvE? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenapkplayer-killerpvepvprealm-vs-realmrvrthe-daily-grindwarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 22 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR's new Zone Domination system in development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/18/wars-new-zone-domination-system-in-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/18/wars-new-zone-domination-system-in-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/18/wars-new-zone-domination-system-in-development/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Without a doubt one of the liveliest people we know of in the MMO industry, Paul Barnett, put out a YouTube video this week in celebration of his birthday, and brought Warhammer Online devs Jeff Hickman and Colin Shannon in for some updates on the game. Perhaps the most interesting thing revealed is WAR's new Zone Domination system which is currently in the works. It's intended to supplement Warhammer Online's realm-vs.-realm system by providing more compelling ways to capture zones. Hickman says, "If you can capture everything in a zone and hold it, claiming the Keeps and dominate that zone, then you have a very good chance of capturing the zone." Or, as Barnett summarizes, Zone Domination will give players more reasons for defending and holding objectives.

Colin Shannon also provides an update on the reduction of crashes in WAR, and there's (perhaps) a ray of hope mentioned at the end for having multiple items in the mail system. Check out the video embed below the cut for more on the state of the game, and what new features WAR players should be getting in a forthcoming patch.

Continue reading WAR's new Zone Domination system in development

MassivelyWAR's new Zone Domination system in development originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Jan 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>colin-shannonfantasygame-mechanicsjeff-hickmanmailmail-systempatchespaul-barnettrealmrealm-vs-realmrealmsrvrterritorial-controlvideovideoswarwarhammer-onlineyoutubezone-controlzone-dominationSun, 18 Jan 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Having fun just isn't rewarding enough on its own]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/having-fun-just-isnt-rewarding-enough-on-its-own/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/having-fun-just-isnt-rewarding-enough-on-its-own/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/having-fun-just-isnt-rewarding-enough-on-its-own/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Regis over at the Wizards and Wenches blog brings up a good point when it comes to both having fun and getting your levels in -- sometimes you just can't have it both ways. Regis wants to spend more time in Warhammer Online's open Realm vs. Realm combat, enjoying the live PvP and the crazy times it produces, but feels that it just doesn't provide enough incentive past the fun aspect.

One could easily level faster via questing and PvE opporunities, or scenarios and questing simultaneously, but both can get extremely tedious after a while, especially when you're getting close to the maximum rank. On the other side of the fence you have RvR, which is a more varied activity when compared to questing and scenarios, but just doesn't pay out the experience points and feels more like a guilty pleasure that wastes time.

Check out the full story over at Wizards and Wenches to get the full gist of what's going on in Regis's mind when it comes to this sticky situation.

MassivelyHaving fun just isn't rewarding enough on its own originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>experiencefunlevelmythicmythic-entertainmentopen-rvrorvrpverealm-vs-realmrvrwarhammer-onlinewizards-and-wenchesMon, 12 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Counterpoint on Warhammer Online's Fortress siege population caps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/10/counterpoint-on-warhammer-onlines-fortress-siege-population-cap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/10/counterpoint-on-warhammer-onlines-fortress-siege-population-cap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/10/counterpoint-on-warhammer-onlines-fortress-siege-population-cap/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


We reported earlier this week that Warhammer Online has been having some issues with Fortress sieges, and opted to implement a solution -- population thresholds. That solution has led to fewer Fortress-related crashes and overall improved performance, but not everyone is as enthusiastic about the changes Mythic has made to Warhammer Online.

A good example of this type of dissent among the WAR ranks can be found at MMOCrunch in a criticism written by Paragus. He takes aim at the Tier 4 campaign changes to Fortresses and states that imposing population thresholds diminishes the very thing WAR bills itself as -- a massive realm-vs.-realm game. He doesn't pull any punches when he states, "The fact that they are trying to spin this by saying 'to allow even more players to participate' by capping population in a given area only makes me feel better about pulling my guild out of this game. I'll be waiting for the flames from Warhammer fans."

Continue reading Counterpoint on Warhammer Online's Fortress siege population caps

MassivelyCounterpoint on Warhammer Online's Fortress siege population caps originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Jan 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mythic Entertainment's Mark Jacobs posted a Warhammer Online dev blog today, titled "Open RvR Update" which maps out the future of open realm-vs-realm in the game. Jacobs writes that the coming months will bring some changes and additions to WAR:
  • An RvR Influence system. "This system is designed to reward our oRvR players with lots of new stuff that you can only get through oRvR," he says.
  • Increased visibility of open RvR, made possible through numerous improvements such as improved maps and travel systems, second bind points, a campaign HUD, and tier-wide messaging about the status of battlefield objectives and keeps.
  • Greater incentives for oRvR participation, namely through keep quests, 'Daily Event Quests,' and chained RvR missions.
  • Better rewards for guilds that take and control keeps, and a system of keep upgrades.
  • Allowing characters to gain oRvR "Fame", linked to the Tome of Knowledge and thus rewards, titles, and experience that come with oRvR success.
Jacobs cautions though, "Please keep in mind that these changes/systems apply to oRvR only and not to scenarios. This is not all we are working on but these do reflect the majority of oRvR additions that we are currently working on/planning for the next few months." Jacobs hopes that open RvR enhancements will inject more risk and challenge into this aspect of the game, and ultimately more rewards. Check out his dev blog where he outlines the changes to open RvR and let us know, do you think Mythic is headed in the right direction with this system revamp?
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyMark Jacobs on changes to WAR's open RvR originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsbreakingdev-blogexperiencefamefantasygame-mechanicsguildsmark-jacobsmmo-industrymythicmythic-entertainmentopen-rvrpvpquestsrealm-vs-realmrewardriskrvrtitlestome-of-knowledgewarwarhammer-onlineTue, 25 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video footage of WAR's Reikland Factory scenario]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/23/video-footage-of-wars-reikland-factory-scenario/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/23/video-footage-of-wars-reikland-factory-scenario/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/23/video-footage-of-wars-reikland-factory-scenario/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Heavy Metal live event for Warhammer Online has been well-received, albeit with some complaints about scenario frequency. Reikland Factory is a unique 'event-only' scenario in WAR, which some players lament will end with Heavy Metal. If this is indeed the case, at least one blogger out there decided to capture it in video for posterity.

Snafzg from The Greenskin blog has put up video footage of his participation in the Reikland Factory scenario. The footage, with Snafzg's commentary throughout, walks the viewer through the scenario and its multiple types of terrain, both indoors and open air. Snafzg is in combat for much of the walkthrough so it's an interesting way to get a quick visual tour of the scenario. You can find The Greenskin's "Reikland Factory Heavy Metal Scenario RvR" video embedded below the cut:
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

Continue reading Video footage of WAR's Reikland Factory scenario

MassivelyVideo footage of WAR's Reikland Factory scenario originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 23 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Any massively multiplayer online game built around the twin pillars of PvP and territorial control can't go wrong by providing realtime status updates of the struggle via the web. Warhammer Online has endeavored to do just that with the Realm War site, as addressed in a dev diary by the title's Web Development Lead, Scott Stricklin. The dev blog touches on what Mythic has accomplished thus far with bringing WAR to the web, and what they hope to accomplish in the future -- namely, podcasts, community news, and character and guild profiles. While they have no shortage of ideas about how to expand WAR outside of the client, their first objective has been to bring Realm vs. Realm data to the web. That goal has now been realized, and Stricklin walks the reader through the features of the newly revamped Realm War site.

Players now have access to updated information about the overall campaign and the status of each capital city, Stricklin writes. This information is also presented visually, with each capital city's look changing based on its status, ranging from peaceful to besieged. This can all be kept in a pop up box in your browser to provide continual updates for when the tide of battle turns. Further information is provided through selectors which represent a server's racial pairings, giving a snapshot of what's happening with each tier's zone control. An added bonus to this are influence maps for each zone, similar to the in-game maps, which show the status of the various RvR objectives and allow a player to mouse over keeps, seeing when it was last captured and by which guild. Have a look at Scott Stricklin's dev diary for more on the Realm War site, or better yet, just head over there and try it out for yourself.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyBringing WAR to the web originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capital-citiesdestructionea-mythicendgamefantasygame-mechanicsinfluence-mapkeepkeepsmapsmythic-entertainmentorderpvpracesrealm-vs-realmrealm-warrealm-war-sitervrscott-stricklinterritorial-controltierswarwarhammer-onlinezone-controlzonesFri, 21 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hangame and EA to bring Warhammer Online to Korea]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/hangame-and-ea-to-bring-warhammer-online-to-korea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/hangame-and-ea-to-bring-warhammer-online-to-korea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/13/hangame-and-ea-to-bring-warhammer-online-to-korea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


There was a time when the western MMO market was flooded with imports of popular Korean titles. While there's still a steady influx of Asian games reworked to fit western playstyles, there's also a growing number of western MMOs being exported to Asia, particularly Korea. The obvious title that succeeds anywhere it goes is World of Warcraft, whose Asian following is legion. But smaller games have also been making inroads. EVE Online has been operating in China for years and Hellgate: London gained a new lease on life in Korea. They're not alone in this. Turbine has its eyes set on expanding into Korea with Lord of the Rings Online, and we know that Age of Conan is marching eastward, too. The latest successful western title to look east is Warhammer Online, which will soon be played in Korea as well.

Electronic Arts and Hangame are partnering to bring WAR to South Korea. In a related press statement, Mythic's Mark Jacobs said, "By partnering with Hangame, we hope to provide Korean gamers with a fresh, new fantasy experience and years' worth of Realm vs. Realm adventures on the frontlines of WAR." You can see the full announcement about WAR's attempt to capture Korean gamers over at The Earth Times. Given how PvP-centric Korean MMOs tend to be, do you think Warhammer Online would be a natural fit for gamers in this market?
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyHangame and EA to bring Warhammer Online to Korea originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Nov 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanasiachinaeaea-mythiceve-onlinehangamehellgate-londonkorealord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromark-jacobsmythic-entertainmentpvprealm-vs-realmrvrturbinewarwarhammer-onlineThu, 13 Nov 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The sport of WAR's RvR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/the-sport-of-wars-rvr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/the-sport-of-wars-rvr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/11/the-sport-of-wars-rvr/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


As a game that has promoted its PvP aspects so much, Warhammer Online's Realm vs Realm feature has become a big hit among players. In a recent article over at Eurogamer, they analyze the sport aspect of WAR's RvR system, and what makes it different from the PvP in other MMOs.

This article touches on many key points, including collision detection, control point logistics and more. However, this article is not simply another praise-fest. On the subject of what Mythic got right or wrong in RvR: "Right: always ensuring you've got something fast, satisfying and combat-centric to achieve, with none of the waiting around and grinding of... well, I won't bring up That Other Game here. Wrong: guarding capture points for a set number of seconds, or running a flag to specific spots to score points is so inescapably gamey, so artificial."
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyThe sport of WAR's RvR originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mythic-entertainmentpvprealm-vs-realmrvrwarhammer-onlineSat, 11 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anti-Aliased: WAR, huh, what is it good for? pt. 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/27/anti-aliased-war-huh-what-is-it-good-for-pt-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/27/anti-aliased-war-huh-what-is-it-good-for-pt-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/27/anti-aliased-war-huh-what-is-it-good-for-pt-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


With that said, let's get to the big gorilla -- the Realm vs. Realm combat. On the surface, it looks good. Letting people walk into clearly defined battlefields to fight over with incentives in the form of quests from the specific RvR warcamps and not to mention exp for killing other players as well as renown points, it looks like it's a winner. And, to be extremely honest, the system does win when you get a bunch of players in one place.

"Player vs. player combat comes extremely naturally to WAR to the point where sometimes I forget I'm in PvP because I'm having so much fun."
Player vs. player combat comes extremely naturally to WAR to the point where sometimes I forget I'm in PvP because I'm having so much fun. Yes, that line just came from the guy who'd rather do reputation grinds than visit Alterac Valley in World of Warcraft. I despise PvP, I despise battlegrounds, and grinding reputation is fun compared to getting killed every three seconds and then teabagged.

WAR makes sure that each person can actualy survive in PvP, have a chance to get away, and they make it into a worthwhile endeavor. Even if you lose a scenario, you can still turn in the specific PvP quest and get experience because you completed the scenario. PvP is tactical, interesting, and just overflowing with rewards. That's a good system.

The bad news comes in the form of World RvR battlegrounds. Once again, they're barren wastelands. No I mean that, they are barren wastelands. Haven't you seen the screenshots? (Insert rimshot here.) But, there's not enough people to really support the battlegrounds system. What we really have here is a "go in, take what you want before someone notices, and leave" system. Sure, there are quests that have owners of the landmarks "check up" on their property --

"Should that problem stop you from playing Warhammer Online? Absolutely not."
quests that will bring the enemy back to their control points -- but even those aren't being taken advantage of by the players.

So, what is WAR good for? WAR is good for a bloody fun time. The game's systems are all well done and are fun to play. The problem is that WAR is missing the fundamental oil in the machine, people to WAR with. The endgame is secure, as everyone is going to end up there, turning the endgame into a giant, vicious struggle (as it should be) but the first and second tiers are going to struggle no matter what. Even in overpopulated servers just a short while from the launch, we're already seeing signs of attrition in the design. Mythic simply thought they'd have more people constantly flowing in or making new characters.

Should that problem stop you from playing Warhammer Online? Absolutely not. The state of the game is still strong, and it's still more fun than you can get in any other game. In fact, if you jump in, you're going to only going to help in curing the problems it has. So go ahead, WAR away. The game is good for it.
Colin Brennan is the weekly writer of Anti-Aliased who finally is having fun with RvR. When he's not writing here for Massively, he's over running Epic Loot For All! with his insane roommates. If you want to message him, you can do so in Second Life (SL: Seraphina Reymont), or send him an e-mail at colin.brennan AT weblogsinc DOT com.

MassivelyAnti-Aliased: WAR, huh, what is it good for? pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Well, Warhammer Online, in the very least, let me get away with putting that song in the title.

We're in the thick of it now -- WAR has launched and been installed on the machines of many. Some proclaim it to be the new timewaster, others find it to be a rip-off of World of Warcraft, and still others believe that it is, in fact, the digital messiah.

Well I don't know about digital messiahs, I just work the game design angles. And when it comes to game design, WAR is filled with new ideas. I like new ideas as much as the next person, but new ideas aren't very good when they don't work. Does WAR go the distance? I'll be glad to tell you, and you know I'm not going to pull punches.

Continue reading Anti-Aliased: WAR, huh, what is it good for?

MassivelyAnti-Aliased: WAR, huh, what is it good for? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Sep 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Last week at Comic-Con in San Diego, I sat down with Warhammer Online producer Jeff Skalski and got my hands on the beta for the first time. I could go in-depth on all the new features and functions of the game, but our own Michael Zenke beat me to the punch on that one. Instead I want to give my impressions of the game from the perspective of a long-time MMOG player with little time to play these days and even less interest in PvP.

You may be asking yourself why I would be drawn to yet another MMOG, much less one largely centered on PvP given my statement above. The answer is simple: revirginization. In a discussion I had with 38 Studios at Comic-Con, I questioned them about how they thought yet another fantasy-based MMOG could succeed in an already heavily saturated market. The answer they gave me was simple and true: gamers have had wonderful experiences when they've first played other fantasy-based titles, but the thrill has been lost by repetitive gameplay. Now, many of us are looking to recapture that newbie experience again with a new title. Warhammer Online may be that game for me, not for its PvE content, but for its Realm vs Realm PvP set-up.

Continue reading Comic-Con 08: Hands-on with Warhammer Online

MassivelyComic-Con 08: Hands-on with Warhammer Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comic-con-08comic-con-2008customizable-uidestructionfeaturedjeff-skalskijoystiqfeaturesmassively-goes-to-warorderrealm-vs-realmrevirginizationrvrtome-of-knowledgeTue, 29 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Player abuse, redemption and revolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/the-digital-continuum-player-abuse-redemption-and-revolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/the-digital-continuum-player-abuse-redemption-and-revolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/05/the-digital-continuum-player-abuse-redemption-and-revolution/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lets go back about ten years or so to the original EverQuest. Now it isn't my intention to pick on any one game, I just happen to be more familiar with it than Ultima Online or Meridian 59. For the sake of immersion let me assume the role of a 1999 copy of EverQuest that you happen to be playing on your gaming machine back in the last year of the last century.

You just died in EverQuest. How dare you die! Since you had the nerve to be defeated in combat, you'll now be required to run from your binding point -- which could potentially be very far away -- to your dead body, which contains all of your equipment and bags that just happen to hold all of your inventory. If you fail to do this, then you lose all of these items. Oh but you've already lost some experience and possibly de-leveled if you happened to have recently leveled up.

Hey! Why are you logging out? So what if you think you'd rather play Half-Life right now, this is the game you're paying for monthly. Don't you think you'd better get the most out of it? Hah! See? I knew you were only bluffing. All right, now get to running, noob.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Player abuse, redemption and revolution

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Player abuse, redemption and revolution originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azerothblizzardchampionschampions-onlinecity-of-heroescrypticcryptic-studiosea-mythiceqeverquestfeaturedhalf-lifejoystiqfeatureslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromeridian-59ncsoftnorrathomega-systempirates-of-the-burning-searealm-vs-realmrvrsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyturbineultima-onlinevalvewarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowwrath-of-the-lich-kingSat, 05 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Peer into WAR's career system guts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/peer-into-wars-career-system-guts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/peer-into-wars-career-system-guts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/peer-into-wars-career-system-guts/#commentsFiled under: , ,


If you just can't get yourself enough Warhammer Online information, then let us point your by-now strained-from-lack-of-sleep eyes towards this MMORPG.com preview of the game's career system. EA Mythic has obviously spent a lot of time thinking about their classes and with very good reason. In a game that's centered around the developer's patented Realm vs Realm combat system it matters very much that there is a close-as-possible balance between the two factions of Order and Chaos.

This is of course a subject that's been touched on by us and other people all around the MMO blogosphere, which is probably making the guys responsible for realm balance over at EA Mythic feel a little stressed -- that is if they weren't to begin with.

If that preview still doesn't sate your now-obviously insatiable desire to know more about Squig Herders and Chaos Magi or essentially any other class featured in the game, we've got you covered.

MassivelyPeer into WAR's career system guts originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>career-systemchaosea-mythicmagusorderrealm-vs-realmrvrsquig-herderwarwarhammer-onlineWed, 25 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeff Hickman interview filled with Warhammer Online goodness]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/jeff-hickman-interview-filled-with-warhammer-online-goodness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/jeff-hickman-interview-filled-with-warhammer-online-goodness/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/jeff-hickman-interview-filled-with-warhammer-online-goodness/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Our sister site Big Download put up an interview today with EA Mythic's senior producer Jeff Hickman and it's all about Warhammer Online. Mostly there's a lot of RvR (Realm vs Realm, Mythic's special brand of world PvP) talk but that's somewhat difficult to avoid when discussing a game that's so very intertwined with the feature. Overall though it's a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the upcoming realm-pride focused production.

A lot of the RvR discussion takes place towards the end of the interview and actually contains some new pieces of information that we find most tantalizing. Included among said information are Jeff's thoughts on the topic of VoIP and socialization elements in RvR. So if you salivate for any new nuggets of information about Warhammer Online or its various features you should definitely check it out.

MassivelyJeff Hickman interview filled with Warhammer Online goodness originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 May 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-mythicelectronic-artsjeff-hickmanmythicrealm-vs-realmrvrwarwarhammer-onlineWed, 28 May 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Catching up with WAR: An update on Warhammer Online's closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/catching-up-with-war-an-update-on-warhammer-onlines-closed-bet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/catching-up-with-war-an-update-on-warhammer-onlines-closed-bet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/catching-up-with-war-an-update-on-warhammer-onlines-closed-bet/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The men and women behind Warhammer Online love their job. It's not hard to see, or hear, and yesterday we had the opportunity to listen in as Warhammer's leading lights chatted about their favorite subject. EA Mythic participated in a conference call aiming to update fans and press alike with the latest news of their much-anticipated title. The team went through a slew of general questions, fleshing out our understanding of the features coming with the game's fall release. Sitting in on the call were Adam Gershowitz (Combat and Careers lead), Josh Drescher (Associate Producer), Paul Barnett (mouth-full-of-pizza), Jeff Hickman (Senior Producer), and Destin Bales (Content Director).

Join us as we walk through the often-humorous commentary from the WAR boys. We'll learn about RvR, keeps and siege, cooperative gameplay, the makeup of the endgame, the viability of PvE, and what you have to do to end up on Paul Barnett's whiteboard. Read on to find out, and to see some exclusive screenshots of the game in action.

Gallery: Warhammer Online: Concept Art

Continue reading Catching up with WAR: An update on Warhammer Online's closed beta

MassivelyCatching up with WAR: An update on Warhammer Online's closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 May 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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