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[Flameseeker Chronicles: What lies ahead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/flameseeker-chronicles-what-lies-ahead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/flameseeker-chronicles-what-lies-ahead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/flameseeker-chronicles-what-lies-ahead/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Pre-Searing
To say last week was exciting for Guild Wars 2 fans is a bit of an understatement. Mike O'Brien gave the community the news it's been dying to hear, Ree Soesbee told us all about the Jotun (no, seriously, I hate those guys and their stupid KDs), and... well, some other things happened too.

We've got lots to talk about, so hit the jump and let's dive right in.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: What lies ahead

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: What lies ahead originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-guild-wars2featuredflameseeker-chroniclesguild-wars2guildwars2gwgw2mike-obrienncsoftree-soesbeeMon, 30 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet unveils the Jotun race of Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/arenanet-unveils-the-jotun-race-of-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/arenanet-unveils-the-jotun-race-of-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/arenanet-unveils-the-jotun-race-of-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jotun
Guild Wars 1 players are familiar with the Jotun race, mostly as "the giant creatures that won't stop KDing me," but they're going to have a continuing and more involved presence in Guild Wars 2, according to the ArenaNet blog.

Ree Soesbee took a close look at this race in the newest ArenaNet blog post, "The Savage Pride of the Jotun." In the post, she explains how the Jotun have essentially devolved over the years thanks to infighting: "Over the centuries of their existence, the Jotun have fallen far from their state of grace, losing command of technology and magic they once utilized, and remembering their place as kings of the land only in legend and story."

The post delves more deeply into the past and present effects of this change, then switches gears for a behind-the-scenes look at the race's creation. The full post is a good read for anyone interested in the game from a lore or development perspective.

MassivelyArenaNet unveils the Jotun race of Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogarenanet-blog-postguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2jotunncsoftraceracesree-soesbeeWed, 25 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ree Soesbee talks about her career with ArenaNet and Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/ree-soesbee-talks-about-her-career-with-arenanet-and-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/ree-soesbee-talks-about-her-career-with-arenanet-and-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/ree-soesbee-talks-about-her-career-with-arenanet-and-guild-wars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Of course there's a Mesmer involved. Apparently, there's always a Mesmer involved.
Ree Soesbee has a long and productive career history even without her current duties on Guild Wars 2, but that's probably the part that MMO fans are most interested in. Guild Wars Insider recently conducted a lengthy interview with Soesbee, discussing her early career and her experiences working on Guild Wars 2 as it prepares for launch. And it's a meaty interview, filled with looks at the crevices of lore to be revealed over time.

Soesbee explains that she and Jeff Grubb share a secret wiki project where they collaborate on the sprawling storylines, making sure that both of them know what's going on at any given moment. There are some interesting rumors of naval approaches against dragons, hints of lore to be uncovered deep within the game, and talk of the Sylvari redesign. If you're looking forward to the game, it's well worth reading the full feature, which should provide several bits of information to hopeful fans.

MassivelyRee Soesbee talks about her career with ArenaNet and Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbackstorydesignguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2interviewinterviewsjeff-grubblorencsoftree-soesbeeupcoming-loreupcoming-titlesWed, 11 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 designers deliver more Asura goodies: Inquest and Golems]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/guild-wars-2-designers-deliver-more-asura-goodies-inquest-and-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/guild-wars-2-designers-deliver-more-asura-goodies-inquest-and-g/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/guild-wars-2-designers-deliver-more-asura-goodies-inquest-and-g/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Asura Golem
Other games have Dwarves or Gnomes for their token cutesy miniature race, but filling this role for Guild Wars 2 are the Asura. Last week, ArenaNet devoted a whole week to these spunky munchkins, expounding on everything from their history to architectural influences. Today, Designers Jon Peters, Jeff Grubb, and Ree Soesbee delivered an extra dose of Asura by giving us the lowdown on the Inquest and battle suit Golems.

First, Grubb and Soesbee told PC Gamer that the Inquest wanted to be the culture that invented the device that would take down the elder dragons, and its members are willing to do whatever it takes to come out on top. Grubb explained, "Most Asuras will not experiment on sentients. That's one of those things that's just not a good thing. The Inquest don't have that limitation. They are more willing to not just manipulate, but to harm others because they've made the judgment that they're superior and therefore have the right to do what they will without worrying about you."

Jon Peters was a little less verbose regarding the Asura's battle suit skills, mostly because these abilities are still in development. However, we learned that although the battle suit is designed for a single operator, when a battle suit is called, any race can pilot it. And when asked if these mechs could be used in PvP, Peters replied, "In World vs World vs World PvP, absolutely yes! In competitive PvP the battle suit will get banned from tournaments."

We hope you caught all of ArenaNet's Asura-related activities last week. If not, we have everything you need to know right here, including a wrap-up in today's Flameseeker Chronicles.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 designers deliver more Asura goodies: Inquest and Golems originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetasuraasura-weekbattle-suitsflameseeker-chroniclesgolemGuild-Wars-2GW2inquestjeff-grubbjon-petersncsoftree-soesbeeMon, 19 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ree Soesbee wraps up Guild Wars 2's Asura Week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/ree-soesbee-wraps-up-guild-wars-2s-asura-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/ree-soesbee-wraps-up-guild-wars-2s-asura-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/ree-soesbee-wraps-up-guild-wars-2s-asura-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Asura Art
The final day of Asura Week has arrived for Guild Wars 2 fans, and Game Designer Ree Soesbee takes the wheel with a mixed approach.

Her look at the race combines hard facts with a short story about an Asura Krewe working through a dangerous task in its own devious and complicated fashion. The rest of the entry takes a deeper look at things we've learned about the Asura during the rest of this week: the political system, the various colleges, and the inner workings of Krewes.

This entry serves as a nice wrap-up to Asura Week, highlighting the core of who the Asura are: highly intelligent, driven little guys with a ruthless desire to be the best and brightest. Head over to the ArenaNet blog for the full story.

MassivelyRee Soesbee wraps up Guild Wars 2's Asura Week originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetasuraasura-weekguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftracesree-soesbeeFri, 16 Sep 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 Asura Week begins Monday [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/guild-wars-2-asura-week-begins-monday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/guild-wars-2-asura-week-begins-monday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/guild-wars-2-asura-week-begins-monday/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Zojja will end you
The Guild Wars 2 development team has brought us Human Week, Norn Week, Sylvari Week, and Charr Week. Four of the five playable races have been covered, leaving fans anxious for the scoop on the final and most diminutive race: the Asura.

ArenaNet announced today that Asura Week will begin Monday and cover character and environment design, animation, lore, and writing. The team will also release new audio, video, art, and even a "Hey Bookah" advice column that's sure to put we humans firmly in our place. Several familiar names will be pitching in for Asura week, including writers Jeff Grubb and Ree Soesbee.

Asura week begins Monday, September 12th, and will continue all week. Check out the schedule after the cut for the full rundown of Asura Week!

[Update: The ArenaNet blog has been updated with the details of Asura Week.]

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 Asura Week begins Monday [Updated]

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 Asura Week begins Monday [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetasuraasura-weekguild-wars-2gw2jeff-grubbncsoftree-soesbeeThu, 08 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Third Guild Wars 2 novel named: Sea of Sorrows]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/third-guild-wars-2-novel-named-sea-of-sorrows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/third-guild-wars-2-novel-named-sea-of-sorrows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/third-guild-wars-2-novel-named-sea-of-sorrows/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 Gamescom panel
During a Gamescom Q&A panel earlier today, ArenaNet writer Ree Soesbee announced that she would be the one penning the highly anticipated third book in the Guild Wars 2 between-game trilogy. The title of the book will be Sea of Sorrows, and that's... kinda all we know about it right now.

If you're not following along at home, the first two books in this series are titled Ghosts of Ascalon and Edge of Destiny, both of which are part of the trilogy that tells the story revolving around the 250 years between Guild Wars 1 and Guild Wars 2. The impending release of this final novel in that trilogy simply brings us closer to an actual launch of Guild Wars 2 itself -- and possibly cures the world's hunger and brings world peace. We're not sure.

Stay tuned to Massively for more on Sea of Sorrows as it's unveiled!

MassivelyThird Guild Wars 2 novel named: Sea of Sorrows originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetedge-of-destinygamescom-2011ghosts-of-ascalonlorenovelsree-soesbeesea-of-sorrowstrilogyFri, 19 Aug 2011 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Guild Wars 2 blog entry talks Sylvari personality]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/new-guild-wars-2-blog-entry-talks-sylvari-personality/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/new-guild-wars-2-blog-entry-talks-sylvari-personality/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/new-guild-wars-2-blog-entry-talks-sylvari-personality/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

On this final day of Guild Wars 2 Sylvari Week, designer Ree Soesbee steps in for a thorough look at who the Sylvari are: their desires, personalities, and even their darker side.

Ree presents a long list of new details about the Sylvari in her post. She covers the various cycles during which Sylvari are born and how that affects who they are; some frequently asked questions about Sylvari biology; the dreaded Nightmare Court; and much more. The blog entry is also punctuated with some storytelling that serves to expand our view of the tougher, more aggressive side of the race as well as give some insight into an important figure in Sylvari culture.

Check out everything she has to say at the ArenaNet blog.

MassivelyNew Guild Wars 2 blog entry talks Sylvari personality originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogguild-wars-2gw2lorencsoftree-soesbeesylvarisylvari-weekFri, 12 Aug 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 video talks Sylvari background and design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/guild-wars-2-video-talks-sylvari-background-and-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/guild-wars-2-video-talks-sylvari-background-and-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/guild-wars-2-video-talks-sylvari-background-and-design/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sylvari week image from video
"Trust me, you have not seen every story that a fantasy world can tell. The Sylvari are new." Guild Wars 2 game designer Ree Soesbee emphasizes how different this new race is in today's new Sylvari Week addition.

In the three-minute video, Ree talks about the origins of the Sylvari from a story viewpoint, explaining the history of the tree that bore their race, and how that forms the basis for who they are.

ArenaNet artist Kristen Perry provides a counterpoint from a design perspective. She talks in depth about her desire to design a creature in keeping with the Sylvari race's unusual origins and background as described by Ree: "I didn't want to just make a painted human with pointy ears."

Jump past the break to take a look at the full video for Sylvari Week.

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 video talks Sylvari background and design

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 video talks Sylvari background and design originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetguild-wars-2gw2kristen-perryncsoftree-soesbeesylvarisylvari-weekvideoWed, 10 Aug 2011 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Make like a tree and check out ArenaNet's Sylvari Week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/make-like-a-tree-and-check-out-arenanets-sylvari-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/make-like-a-tree-and-check-out-arenanets-sylvari-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/make-like-a-tree-and-check-out-arenanets-sylvari-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Forget Shark Week -- it's Sylvari Week! Today on the ArenaNet blog and the Guild Wars 2 official site, ArenaNet announced that in honor of the Sylvari race's being playable at Gamescom later this month, next week (beginning Monday, August 8th) will be Sylvari week.

So what's the schedule looking like for Sylvari week? Well, things will kick off on Monday with ArenaNet artist Kristen Perry discussing the aesthetic of the Sylvari and explaining how it has evolved over time. Tuesday we get writer Angel McCoy talking about how the writing team intends to bring the race to life through its dialogue. Wednesday, Lore and Continuity Designer Ree Soesbee swings by -- with returning guest Kristen Perry -- the ANet blog to to discuss the roots (Ha Ha! Sylvari are trees.) and development of the Sylvari race. Thursday sees the Sylvari page on the official Guild Wars 2 site updated with buckets of new content, and things finally wrap up on Friday as Ree Soesbee returns with a narrative blog post that expands on the lore of the Sylvari even further.

MassivelyMake like a tree and check out ArenaNet's Sylvari Week originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetangel-mccoyarenanetartguild-wars-2gw2kristen-perrylorencsoftree-soesbeesylvarisylvari-weektreetree-huggerstree-peopleFri, 05 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Guild Wars 2 blog post and video tours Lion's Arch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/new-guild-wars-2-blog-post-and-video-tours-lions-arch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/new-guild-wars-2-blog-post-and-video-tours-lions-arch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/new-guild-wars-2-blog-post-and-video-tours-lions-arch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lion's Arch is a familiar name to Guild Wars fans and a place that they've been anxious to see in Guild Wars 2.

It's been common knowledge for a long time that while Lion's Arch survived and is a bustling city in the Tyria of Guild Wars 2, time has taken a heavy toll. The awakening of the dragon Zhaitan and the rise of Orr caused massive flooding throughout the human lands of Kryta. When the waters receded, Lion's Arch was rebuilt.

This rebuilt version has been a mystery until now. Lore and Continuity Designer Ree Soesbee has penned a new ArenaNet blog post detailing the fall and resurrection of Lion's Arch and giving a few new details on how things are run in Guild Wars 2. Even better, the post includes a two-minute tour of Lion's Arch. Check out the video in HD after the jump, then head to the ArenaNet blog to read all about it!

Continue reading New Guild Wars 2 blog post and video tours Lion's Arch

MassivelyNew Guild Wars 2 blog post and video tours Lion's Arch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 May 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogguild-wars-2gw2lions-archncsoftree-soesbeevideoWed, 11 May 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 is skill-based, says lead designer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/guild-wars-2-is-skill-based-says-lead-designer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/guild-wars-2-is-skill-based-says-lead-designer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/guild-wars-2-is-skill-based-says-lead-designer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Although Guild Wars 2 has had many reveals lately, much of the game is still shrouded in mystery, and ArenaNet has generally remained tight-lipped about specific game information. However, in a recent interview with Guild-Hall.cz, Lead Designer Eric Flannum did let fans in on a few tidbits.

A concern for a lot of players is skill vs. level. Flannum revealed that skill will play a significant role in Guild Wars 2 and clarified it by saying, "For really large level spreads of say 10 or more levels, then the gear and raw power of the character is going to be a huge factor. When you are talking about smaller level differences then skill plays a very large role." Given the more action-based combat mechanics of the game, we think this makes a lot of sense.

In a related question, Flannum was asked about the quality of dropped gear vs. crafted gear. "It will be possible to craft items that are comparable in power to the best items available through drops and other rewards," he assured readers.

For the whole interview with Flannum and designers Jon Peters, Jeff Grubb, Colin Johanson, and Ree Soesbee, hop to Guild-Hall.cz.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 is skill-based, says lead designer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 May 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetatributescolin-johansoncraftingcrafting-systemeric-flannumgearguild-hallguild-hall-czGuild-Wars-2GW2interviewjeff-grubbjon-petersncsoftree-soesbeeskill-basedskill-based-combatskillsFri, 06 May 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet designer Ree Soesbee wraps up Guild Wars 2 Charr week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/arenanet-designer-ree-soesbee-wraps-up-guild-wars-2-charr-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/arenanet-designer-ree-soesbee-wraps-up-guild-wars-2-charr-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/arenanet-designer-ree-soesbee-wraps-up-guild-wars-2-charr-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The final day of Guild Wars 2 Charr week is here, and it's designer Ree Soesbee's turn to give us another in-depth look at the Charr. Ree is the author of the Guild Wars 2 backstory, so she enjoys a unique view of the Charr heirarchy -- both the big picture and the small details.

She's got plenty to say and a story to tell, so follow along after the jump for our in-depth look at the wrap-up of Charr week!

Continue reading ArenaNet designer Ree Soesbee wraps up Guild Wars 2 Charr week

MassivelyArenaNet designer Ree Soesbee wraps up Guild Wars 2 Charr week originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcharrcharr-weekguild-wars-2ncsoftree-soesbeeFri, 22 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[It's a rat, it's a bat, it's Guild Wars 2's Skritt!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/its-a-rat-its-a-bat-its-guild-wars-2s-skritt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/its-a-rat-its-a-bat-its-guild-wars-2s-skritt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/its-a-rat-its-a-bat-its-guild-wars-2s-skritt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Don't call them Bat-Men, Skaven or Reepicheep; you'll address them as "Skritt" and do it with respect if you know what's good for you.

In a new ArenaNet blog post, Ree Soesbee reveals the latest Guild Wars 2 monster to plague the land: the "horribly, wickedly tricksy" Skritt. Skritt are a humanoid blend of rats and bats that live in massive colonies under the surface of Tyria, emerging to mooch and presumably harvest spoons from their victims.

One interesting fact about this race is that Skritt share intelligence in an unknown way, and the more of them that congregate the smarter they become. It's this tenacity and hive-mind that have made them mortal enemies of the Asura, who are adamant that all Skritt be wiped out.

So what prompted the creation of Guild Wars 2's Skritt? "We hadn't explored the idea of a hive-mind in our world before, but we didn't want to just repeat the old standard-an insectoid race. We went through many ideas, and eventually settled on the concept of a rattus rattus based horde. A major consideration in their creation was that this race had to challenge the asura on their own terms, but not be just another super-intelligent species."

MassivelyIt's a rat, it's a bat, it's Guild Wars 2's Skritt! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogasurabat-menbatmanguild-wars-2gw2hive-mindloremobmobsmonsterncsoftraceree-soesbeereepicheepskavenskritttyriawickedly-tricksyTue, 05 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 blog updates with Norn lore entry]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/guild-wars-2-blog-updates-with-norn-lore-entry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/guild-wars-2-blog-updates-with-norn-lore-entry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/guild-wars-2-blog-updates-with-norn-lore-entry/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The world of Tyria has long been possessed of deep and engaging lore, and the official ArenaNet blog has just updated with a bit more of the backstory that fans will be soaking up with the eventual release of Guild Wars 2. ANet's Ree Soesbee has penned a Norn-centric piece that offers a revealing look at the warrior race's affinity for the Spirits of the Wild.

Soesbee's update focuses on four of the more important Spirits -- bear, snow leopard, raven, and wolf -- and features three story vignettes to go along with a bit of intro exposition in each case. Head to the official ANet blog for the latest update as Norn week comes to a close.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 blog updates with Norn lore entry originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarena-netarenanetbackstoryguild-wars-2guildwars2gw2lorencsoftnornnorn-weekree-soesbeespiritsspirits-of-the-wildstorytyriaFri, 25 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 Norn week continues with new video and developer interview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/guild-wars-2-norn-week-continues-with-new-video-and-developer-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/guild-wars-2-norn-week-continues-with-new-video-and-developer-in/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/24/guild-wars-2-norn-week-continues-with-new-video-and-developer-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In what might well be the highlight of Norn week, ArenaNet has released a wealth of information to Guild Wars 2 fans this morning. A new video, screenshots and art, and an interview with the developers combine to tell players all about what they can expect if they choose to play a Norn character.

Where and how will you live? What are your surroundings like? Jeff Grubb, Ree Soesbee, Eric Flannum, and Bobby Stein gathered to deliver some insight on the Norn and gave us some exciting new details in the bargain. For example, the Norn trait of being in sympathy with nature isn't limited to the animal forms we're familiar with so far. For example, Eric Flannum explained that Norn players can use that affinity to call upon the wurm spirit and summon a temporary wurm pet to assist in battle. While we're not sure you'd want one sticking around and following you home, they make for handy companions to call on in a pinch.

The new video, set to Jeremy Soule's instantly recognizable background score, offers sweeping views of some of the Norn home areas. The video, which is a combination of familiar and new footage, deserves at least two viewings to allow you to take it all in -- thanks both to the sheer size of it all and the intricate detail. From the shields mounted high above to the weapons on the fences below, there's more to see than can be parsed in one viewing.

The screenshots are a combination of new and old too, but even the familiar ones have new bits of information here and there. The Norn female we saw way back when is now clearly identified as a Ranger in the image title, for example.

Follow along after the jump for the video, a gallery of the new images, and the developer interview!

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 Norn week continues with new video and developer interview

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 Norn week continues with new video and developer interview originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbobby-steineric-flannumguild-wars-2gw2interviewinterviewsjeff-grubbncsoftnornnorn-weekraceracesree-soesbeethis-is-definitely-better-than-shark-weekvideoThu, 24 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An ArenaNet retrospective: "We're not a video game company, we're a community building company"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/an-arenanet-retrospective-were-not-a-video-game-company-wer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/an-arenanet-retrospective-were-not-a-video-game-company-wer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/an-arenanet-retrospective-were-not-a-video-game-company-wer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"I don't think I've seen a studio more passionate about its work."

Massively contributing editor Larry Everett made this comment regarding ArenaNet in our recent Staff Choice Awards, and his timing couldn't have been better. ArenaNet has begun 2011 in a big way with the ArenaNet retrospective. The 15-minute video is a trip back in time to the earliest days of ArenaNet and Guild Wars, but it doesn't stop there. Over 20 ArenaNet team members give their perspectives on where the company has been, where it's going, the company's take on Guild Wars 2, and what makes it great.

If you loved the Manifesto video, you're likely going to find this one an even bigger treat. Follow along after the jump to see the ArenaNet retrospective video and Massively's take on it.

Continue reading An ArenaNet retrospective: "We're not a video game company, we're a community building company"

MassivelyAn ArenaNet retrospective: "We're not a video game company, we're a community building company" originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-j-thompsonanetarenanetarenanet-retrospectivebob-steinchris-lyecolin-johansondaniel-dociuemily-diehleric-flannumguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2horia-dociuisaiah-cartwrightjason-stokesjeff-grubbkaty-hargrovekekai-kotakukristen-perrymike-obrienMike-Zadorojnyncsoftrandy-priceree-soesbeerichard-andersonvideoThu, 06 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This game will care that you're there: Our look at the Guild Wars 2 manifesto]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/11/this-game-will-care-that-youre-there-our-look-at-the-guild-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/11/this-game-will-care-that-youre-there-our-look-at-the-guild-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/11/this-game-will-care-that-youre-there-our-look-at-the-guild-war/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Earlier this week, ArenaNet promised a new Guild Wars 2 video. That announcement came with a warning: no, it's not a new class reveal, and many fans were pretty disappointed. What could possibly serve as an adequate substitute for a class reveal? It's safe to say that the disappointment was blown out of the water yesterday with the unveiling of the MMO Manifesto and the Walking the Walk blog post.

Merriam-Webster defines the word manifesto as a "a written statement declaring publicly the intentions, motives, or views of its issuer," but when the word is used in context, there are usually strong feelings behind those intentions. Revolutionary, groundbreaking, and change are words associated with such a thing, and it was a word well-chosen by ArenaNet with this newest reveal.

Follow along after the jump as we take a closer look at what ArenaNet showed us yesterday.

Continue reading This game will care that you're there: Our look at the Guild Wars 2 manifesto

MassivelyThis game will care that you're there: Our look at the Guild Wars 2 manifesto originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogcolin-johansondaniel-dociufeaturedghosts-of-ascalonguild-warsguild-wars-2gw2manifestomike-obrienncsoftree-soesbeetrailervideoWed, 11 Aug 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 video features developers and new gameplay footage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/guild-wars-2-video-features-developers-and-new-gameplay-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/guild-wars-2-video-features-developers-and-new-gameplay-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/10/guild-wars-2-video-features-developers-and-new-gameplay-footage/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You know all those quotes and images ArenaNet has been teasing us with the past few days? Well, we finally found out what that was all about -- the promised Guild Wars 2 video was finally released.


We've known for a long time that the design goals for Guild Wars 2 were to make something bigger and better than what we've come to expect from an MMO. A truly immersive story in which the world around you isn't made up of blocks of quest text, oblivious NPCs, and enemies who loiter in a field waiting for you to come attack.

In the new video from ArenaNet, we hear more on this plan straight from the developers: Mike O'Brien, Daniel Dociu, Colin Johanson, and Ree Soesbee. Follow along after the jump to hear what they have to say, and check out the beautiful new gameplay footage in the video.

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 video features developers and new gameplay footage

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 video features developers and new gameplay footage originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcolin-johansondaniel-dociuguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-videogw2mike-obrienncsoftree-soesbeeTue, 10 Aug 2010 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Personality in Guild Wars 2: NPCs will give you pie]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/personality-in-guild-wars-2-npcs-will-give-you-pie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/personality-in-guild-wars-2-npcs-will-give-you-pie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/personality-in-guild-wars-2-npcs-will-give-you-pie/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Do you like pie? Do you want game NPCs to give you free pie? How about a free jar of bees? (Don't look so surprised, it's an excellent weapon.) It may sound funny, but free goodies from NPCs are all part of the personality system in Guild Wars 2.

Way back in May, ArenaNet's Ree Soesbee gave us an exciting overview of how your personal story will work in Guild Wars 2. The whole point of personal story, and dynamic events for that matter, is to make you feel that you're truly in the world and making an impact.

However, it's a bit immersion-breaking if you've been tearing around building a reputation as a centaur-slaying hero, and then you enter town to be greeted by blank stares and static dialogue from every NPC. ArenaNet thought of this too. Follow along after the jump to see how the developers have addressed this issue in the latest blog entry: Personality in Guild Wars 2.

Continue reading Personality in Guild Wars 2: NPCs will give you pie

MassivelyPersonality in Guild Wars 2: NPCs will give you pie originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-blogcurtis-johnsonfeaturedguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftpersonal-storypersonalityree-soesbeeTue, 03 Aug 2010 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 personal story: Massively's interview with Ree Soesbee]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/29/guild-wars-2-personal-story-massivelys-interview-with-ree-soes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/29/guild-wars-2-personal-story-massivelys-interview-with-ree-soes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/29/guild-wars-2-personal-story-massivelys-interview-with-ree-soes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Guild Wars 2 Lore & Continuity Designer Ree Soesbee gave the Guild Wars community some very welcome information earlier this week. The concept of a personal storyline in Guild Wars 2 is something that's been hinted at for a while now, and Ree's blog post filled out the details of this idea nicely.

As always, it left the fans wanting to know much more, so ArenaNet spent some quality time on different forums finding out what some of the most frequently-asked questions were. Ree then followed up on her previous post by answering those questions.

We at Massively had plenty of our own questions too, so Ree was kind enough to take some time out of her busy schedule and chat with us. Follow along after the jump to see what else she had to say about personal story in Guild Wars 2.

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 personal story: Massively's interview with Ree Soesbee

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 personal story: Massively's interview with Ree Soesbee originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 May 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetfeaturedguild-wars-2interviewncsoftpersonal-storyree-soesbeeSat, 29 May 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's interview with the Guild Wars 2 design team]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/28/massivelys-interview-with-the-guild-wars-2-design-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/28/massivelys-interview-with-the-guild-wars-2-design-team/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/28/massivelys-interview-with-the-guild-wars-2-design-team/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There has been so much new information about Guild Wars 2 lately that it can be a little hard to keep up. While things have mostly focused around dynamic events and personal story, the scope of those two concepts is so large that every new piece of news seemed to trigger another list of questions.

We at Massively have been following the developments closely, so we are as curious as anyone else. We asked the Guild Wars 2 team about several various points -- everything from crafting to the creation timeline.

Lead Designer Eric Flannum, Lore and Continuity Designer Ree Soesbee, and Game Designer John Hargrove were kind enough to satisfy our curiosity on some of these points. Follow along after the jump and see what they had to say.

Continue reading Massively's interview with the Guild Wars 2 design team

MassivelyMassively's interview with the Guild Wars 2 design team originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 May 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetdynamic-eventseric-flannumfeaturedguild-wars-2interviewsjohn-hargrovencsoftpersonal-storyree-soesbeeFri, 28 May 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet's Ree Soesbee gives new details on personal story in Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/arenanets-ree-soesbee-gives-new-details-on-personal-story-in-gu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/arenanets-ree-soesbee-gives-new-details-on-personal-story-in-gu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/arenanets-ree-soesbee-gives-new-details-on-personal-story-in-gu/#commentsFiled under: , ,

One of the biggest problems in any given MMO is creating a good individual storyline -- feeling that you, your character, truly progressed and made an impact on your game world. It's always been seen as a general impossibility, because it's just not realistic. Guild Wars is an exceptional game, but it's always suffered from the same problem because there was no way around it. What would happen if Sacnoth Valley could only be vanquished once? What if the first guy to kill Lian, Dragon's Petal was the only guy who was able to do so? Sure, that's great for him, and it would be perfect in a single-player game, but what about the thousands of other players who kind of wanted Lian's Lantern?

Making a lasting impact on the world that is truly felt by the rest of the inhabitants of that world just wasn't done, until now. The introduction of dynamic events in Guild Wars 2 has opened up an exciting new door for Guild Wars fans, giving us a chance to truly do something that affects the big picture in Tyria.

What does this mean for your character, though? Ree Soesbee is a Lore & Continuity Designer for Guild Wars 2, so she naturally has a lot to say about personal story. Follow along after the jump for all the latest details on this system.

Continue reading ArenaNet's Ree Soesbee gives new details on personal story in Guild Wars 2

MassivelyArenaNet's Ree Soesbee gives new details on personal story in Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 May 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetfeaturedguild-wars-2ncsoftpersonal-storyree-soesbeeWed, 26 May 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's interview with ArenaNet: Let's talk Guild Wars 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/massivelys-interview-with-arenanet-lets-talk-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/massivelys-interview-with-arenanet-lets-talk-guild-wars-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/massivelys-interview-with-arenanet-lets-talk-guild-wars-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


While the internet collectively recovers from the new Guild Wars 2 trailer, released during GamesCom earlier this month, we jumped at the chance to interview the creative geniuses behind the upcoming title. ArenaNet's Eric Flannum, Lead Designer, Ree Soesbee, World Designer/Writer and Will McDermott, Writer all answered our barrage of questions.

Follow along after the jump to learn more about the GW2 business model, evil Sylvari, plans to have multiple servers and much more!

Continue reading Massively's interview with ArenaNet: Let's talk Guild Wars 2

MassivelyMassively's interview with ArenaNet: Let's talk Guild Wars 2 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenaneteric-flannumfeaturedguild-wars-2gw2interviewncsoftq-and-aree-soesbeewill-mcdermottThu, 17 Sep 2009 11:00:00 EST