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[Turbine releases GameStop-exclusive LotRO Mithril edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/turbine-releases-gamestop-exclusive-lotro-mithril-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/turbine-releases-gamestop-exclusive-lotro-mithril-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/turbine-releases-gamestop-exclusive-lotro-mithril-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online - hobbit on a rooftop
Turbine snubbed box collectors with its last two Lord of the Rings Online expansions, but the company hasn't abandoned retail altogether.

The new Mithril edition is exclusive to GameStop stores, and while it may not be as valuable as Frodo's life-saving waistcoat, it does provide $50 worth of content for a paltry $29.99. Exclusive bonus items include a Steed of the Horse-lords mount, Path of the Fellowship quests, and 2,000 Turbine points to spend in the game's cash shop. It's worth noting that the Mithril edition is basically a starter kit for the full game, as it does not include the Siege of Mirkwood expansion or the Rise of Isengard expansion. Further details are available at the official LotRO website.

[Source: Turbine press release]

MassivelyTurbine releases GameStop-exclusive LotRO Mithril edition originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>box-copyf2pfantasyfree-to-playlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-mithril-editionlotro-starter-kitmiddle-earthmithril-editionretailretail-boxstarter-kitturbineTue, 28 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB now available at European retail stores]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/apb-now-available-at-european-retail-stores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/apb-now-available-at-european-retail-stores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/apb-now-available-at-european-retail-stores/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

APB Reloaded - the popo
The writing may be on the wall for lovers of the physical game box, but not every company is giving up on retail altogether. GamersFirst has just announced a partnership with Iceberg Interactive to distribute APB Reloaded to brick and mortar stores across the UK, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Scandinavia.

The box sells for £20 and features £30 of bonus items including a permanent hi-performance vehicle, weapon, and 30 days of premium access (which in turn provides increased cash and reputation rewards, plus a hefty discount at the cash shop).

APB Reloaded is an open-world third-person shooter set in the crime-ridden streets of San Paro. The game is free-to-play, powered by the Unreal 3 Engine, and features an advanced avatar customization system that allows for personalized symbols, clothing, vehicles, and in-game music.

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

MassivelyAPB now available at European retail stores originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbonus-itemscrimecustomizationf2pfree-to-playiceberg-interactivemmo-shooterphysical-boxretailretail-boxshooterMon, 13 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA pre-orders available, closed beta access included]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/tera-pre-orders-available-closed-beta-access-included/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/tera-pre-orders-available-closed-beta-access-included/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/tera-pre-orders-available-closed-beta-access-included/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA - Amani warrior
TERA news is coming fast and furious lately, and luckily for En Masse, today's blurb is a good one. The game is officially available for pre-order, and as you would expect, there are all kinds of options relating to various gifts and gadgets depending on where (and what version) you purchase. There's also a bit of beta bribery in the form of automatic access to all five of the closed testing phases that begin this month and continue through April.

What about the editions?

Well, you can choose between standard, digital collector's, and physical collector's version, and the latter two come with an in-game mount and a couple of unique necklace items. The physical collector's edition justifies its $79.99 price point with a cloth map, a soundtrack CD, a handbook, a compass, and a letter of marque. En Masse is also offering a couple of exclusives for purchasing directly through its online store.

MassivelyTERA pre-orders available, closed beta access included originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-briberycollectors-editiondigital-downloaddo-we-get-a-refund-if-they-lose-the-lawsuiten-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasypre-orderretailretail-boxteraWed, 01 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[APB Reloaded finally comes to retail]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/apb-reloaded-finally-comes-to-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/apb-reloaded-finally-comes-to-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/apb-reloaded-finally-comes-to-retail/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

APB Reloaded - mexican standoff
Back in early December, GamersFirst announced the impending retail availability of APB Reloaded. As it turns out, the announcement was premature and the actual date has remained a mystery.

Until today.

The free-to-play shooter is now on sale at Best Buy, and the box features more than $50 worth of in-game items. Thirty days of premium access are part of the package, and you'll get faster rep and XP gains, more currency rewards, and a 20% discount in the game's cash shop for your trouble. You'll also take home 500 G1 credits, a faction-specific Z180 sports car, and a Magnum ACT-44 handgun available to all the characters on your account.

Finally, GamersFirst says each retail edition comes with a "super-secret bonus permanent weapon."

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

MassivelyAPB Reloaded finally comes to retail originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedBest-Buycrimef2pfree-to-playgamersfirstretailretail-boxretail-editionsan-paroMon, 23 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony, CCP 'negotiating PS3 virtual item policy' for DUST 514]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/sony-ccp-negotiating-ps3-virtual-item-policy-for-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/sony-ccp-negotiating-ps3-virtual-item-policy-for-dust-514/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/sony-ccp-negotiating-ps3-virtual-item-policy-for-dust-514/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514 - planetary concept art
DUST 514 is somewhat revolutionary in that it's attempting to tie together two separate games (on two separate platforms) that take place in the same fictional universe. CCP is also innovating on the backend according to a new article at Develop.

The upcoming EVE Online MMOFPS tie-in will establish universal PlayStation Network microtransaction rules according to CCP CEO Hilmar Petursson. Petursson told Develop that the ongoing CCP/Sony negotiations will ultimately result in the establishment of price tiers for virtual items as well as the revenue split between Sony and third-party devs.

CCP is also exploring retail options for DUST 514, despite early reports that the title would only be available as a digital download. Finally, Petursson tells Develop that the PlayStation Vita version of DUST will "give people access to more asynchronous parts of the game." While he doesn't commit one way or the other, it's possible that the portable version of the game will connect to both the PlayStation 3 and PC versions via EVE's universal ISK currency.

MassivelySony, CCP 'negotiating PS3 virtual item policy' for DUST 514 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelscash-shopccpccp-gamesdustdust-514dust-514-retaileveeve-onlinef2pfpsfree-to-playhilmar-peturssonitem-storemicrotransactionsmmo-shootermmofpsmobilenew-edenplaystation-3playstation-networkplaystation-vitaps3retailsandboxsci-fishootersonyvirtual-item-policyvitaMon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB: Reloaded unveils a boatload of new screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/apb-reloaded-unveils-a-boatload-of-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/apb-reloaded-unveils-a-boatload-of-new-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/apb-reloaded-unveils-a-boatload-of-new-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Orange is still usually not among police uniform colors. Sadly.
Are you excited about the release of the APB: Reloaded retail box? Ambivalent about the release but fond of screenshots? Either way, there's a whole lot of new screenshots from the game to coincide with said release, showing off two of the new maps for the game's new Fight Club battle mode and new SWAT gear for Enforcer players who like to take down crime in style. And heavy armor, which seems practical.

There's also a new revelation about the retail pack itself, as it seems that GamersFirst has sweetened the pot slightly. In addition to all of the bonuses listed in our post on the release yesterday, GamersFirst has confirmed that there are extra weapons in the package for those who purchase the pack within the first 30 days. So if you're curious about what you could do on the streets and have the $30 to check it out, now might be the time to do so.

Gallery: APB Reloaded new SWAT gear


Gallery: APB Reloaded: Fight Club map The Beacon


Gallery: APB Reloaded: Fight Club map Baylan Shipping


Gallery: APB Reloaded

MassivelyAPB: Reloaded unveils a boatload of new screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbonus-goodsbonus-rewardsf2pfree-to-playg1galleriesgallerygamersfirstretailretail-editionscreenshotscreenshotsspecial-rewardsFri, 09 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB retail edition to hit store shelves tomorrow [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/apb-retail-edition-to-hit-store-shelves-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/apb-retail-edition-to-hit-store-shelves-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/apb-retail-edition-to-hit-store-shelves-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

And you can shoot them!
Would you buy a box set for a free-to-play game? It might seem like an odd question, but GamersFirst is hoping that the answer to that question is "yes" once you see what's being offered with the APB: Reloaded boxed edition. With a suggested retail price of $29.99, the box is set to go on sale starting tomorrow, December 9th, and will be sold at Best Buy, Target, GameStop, and Walmart.

And what do you get when you buy the game? Aside from an installation disc and manual, you get 30 days free of Premium account status and 500 G1 credits for use in the game's microtransaction store. You also get a faction-specific sports car and a special secondary weapon to help ensure that you're never without a holdout in a protracted firefight. Time will tell if this addition to the game's marketing proves profitable for the game under its current business model.

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

[Update: We've since been told that the retail launch of APB: Reloaded has been delayed. The team hopes to have an updated date by Friday, December 16th. We'll update you when we know more!]

MassivelyAPB retail edition to hit store shelves tomorrow [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedbox-editionbusiness-modelsbusiness-newsf2pfree-to-playgamersfirstnewsretailretail-boxretail-editionThu, 08 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks rumbles into retail stores]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/world-of-tanks-rumbles-into-retail-stores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/world-of-tanks-rumbles-into-retail-stores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/world-of-tanks-rumbles-into-retail-stores/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - Russian tank
It's official: You can now purchase World of Tanks in a retail store near you. Wargaming.net has shipped boxes of its free-to-play World War II heavy armor MMO to stores, including GameStop, Wal-Mart, Fry's, and others, and the retail package comes loaded with $30 worth of in-game items.

Players will receive a T2 light tank, one week's worth of premium account access, 1,050,000 credits, and 1,800 gold -- all for $19.99. If you can't make it out to your local games dealer, you'll find the World of Tanks retail box for sale at many online stores as well, including Best Buy.com, New Egg, and Amazon.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks rumbles into retail stores originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmohistoricalonline-storephysical-mediaretailretail-boxretail-packageretail-storetankswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotww2wwiiThu, 01 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[APB Reloaded gets North American retail distributor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/apb-reloaded-gets-north-american-retail-distributor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/apb-reloaded-gets-north-american-retail-distributor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/apb-reloaded-gets-north-american-retail-distributor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

APB Reloaded - shooter
OK, remember last month when GamersFirst seemed to shoot down the notion of APB Reloaded coming to a retail shelf near you?

Apparently those rumors were more than idle scuttlebutt, and senior marketing VP Rahul Sandil's statement that GamersFirst was evaluating its options was more than idle PR-speak. In a new press release issued this morning, GamersFirst revealed that it is partnering with Interactive Gaming Software to bring the massively multiplayer shooter to your local gaming store. Sandil says that "the response from retail has been so overwhelming that we are considering launching with a half-million units."

What will retail customers get for their $29.95? Aside from the box and manual, the package boasts $50 worth of in-game items including a permanent high-performance vehicle, a permanent in-game weapon, and 30 days of premium account access (which grants increased mission rewards, reputation gains, and a 20% cash shop discount).

MassivelyAPB Reloaded gets North American retail distributor originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbonus-itemscrimef2pfree-to-playgamersfirstigsinteractive-gaming-softwaremmo-shooterrahul-sandilretailretail-boxretail-packagingsan-paroshooterTue, 23 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks coming to retail in late August]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/world-of-tanks-coming-to-retail-in-late-august/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/world-of-tanks-coming-to-retail-in-late-august/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/world-of-tanks-coming-to-retail-in-late-august/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - tank firing
Collectors rejoice! World of Tanks is coming to a retail establishment near you on August 31st. The free-to-play action MMO, which launched in April as a digital download title, will now be available as a boxed version priced at $19.99.

So what's in it for consumers apart from the decidedly retro notion of owning a physical copy of a game? Quite a bit, actually, as the package includes the full game client and approximately $30 worth of in-game items including a premium account, game credits, gold, and an upgraded tank.

World of Tanks has been played by over 5 million people and features historically accurate renditions of more than 150 armored vehicles from America, Germany, and the Soviet Union. The game is the first entry in Wargaming.net's action MMO trilogy, which includes World of Warplanes and World of Battleships.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks coming to retail in late August originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-itemsf2pfree-to-playhistoricalin-game-itemsphysical-copypress-releaseretailretail-boxretail-editionwarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2World-War-IIwotww2wwiiFri, 19 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks rolling toward retail]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/world-of-tanks-rolling-toward-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/world-of-tanks-rolling-toward-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/world-of-tanks-rolling-toward-retail/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The retail box hasn't quite succumbed to the digital download onslaught, at least if World of Tanks and Wargaming.net have anything to say in the matter. Yes, fans of clutter and old-school box collecting rejoice, as WoT is on its way to a game store near you thanks to a new partnership with Interactive Gaming Software. The World War II-based tank MMO will be available at retail for $19.99, and Wargaming.net CEO Victor Kislyi hopes that the new deal will result in increased exposure around the globe.

"We're extremely proud to say that our headliner will finally appear in stores," Kislyi said via press release. "[We] hope that [IGS'] tremendous expertise in distributing retail production will help in bringing the popularity of World of Tanks to a completely new level."

World of Tanks is a free-to-play action MMO that launched last April. The game features squad-based tank combat, traditional MMO progression, and a strategic territorial meta-game based on a large-scale map of World War II-era Europe.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks rolling toward retail originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobusiness-modelsf2pfree-to-playhistoricaligsinteractive-gaming-softwareold-schoolpress-releaseretailretail-boxstrategyvictor-kislyiwarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotww2wwiiTue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gods & Heroes going worldwide on Steam this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/gods-and-heroes-going-worldwide-on-steam-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/gods-and-heroes-going-worldwide-on-steam-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/gods-and-heroes-going-worldwide-on-steam-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Gods & Heroes: Rome Rising is coming to Steam. The mythology-inspired MMORPG, launched yesterday by Heatwave Interactive, is now available on Valve's North American digital distribution platform and will available worldwide later this week (June 24th, to be exact).

Aside from the convenience of avoiding a retail purchase, Steam customers will also receive a traditional platform-exclusive in-game item, in this case a mythical minion called a Gorpal. The Gorpal is a damage-dealing Phorcid pet that "protects players by fighting with claws and a poisonous bite," according to a Heatwave press release.

Check out our Gods & Heroes launch day coverage for more on the game, and don't forget to stop by the official website as well.

MassivelyGods & Heroes going worldwide on Steam this week originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-itemsdigital-distributiondistributionfantasygods-and-heroesgods-and-heroes-rome-risinggorpalheatwaveheatwave-interactivein-game-petpetphorcidretailsteamvalveWed, 22 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earthrise goes on sale, looks ahead to expansion [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/earthrise-goes-on-sale-looks-ahead-to-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/earthrise-goes-on-sale-looks-ahead-to-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/earthrise-goes-on-sale-looks-ahead-to-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Big things are afoot in Earthrise, which is now going worldwide as publisher Iceberg Interactive has launched the English language version in all territories. To tempt players into giving it a try, Iceberg's digital launch will be offered at a hefty 40% discount, bringing the title to $29.99.

Even bigger than that is the news of Earthrise's first free expansion: Territorial Warfare. This content update promises to double the size of the current game world and will let players take over territory, build bases, and fight against opposing forces. These bases can even provide players with resources to further expand their power.

The price drop and expansion will apply to European boxed copies as well. The boxed versions also include a map and poster.

Masthead Studios has been pursuing aggressive updates and fixes to the game as of late, and with the expansion there should be plenty of additional content for players to enjoy.

[Updated: Changed the price to reflect US sales price.]

MassivelyEarthrise goes on sale, looks ahead to expansion [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxed-versioncontent-updatedealdiscountearthriseexpansionicebergiceberg-interactivemapmastheadmasthead-studiosposterpromotionretailretail-versionsaleterritorial-warfareupdateWed, 01 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Empires Online launching August 16th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/age-of-empires-online-launching-august-16th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/age-of-empires-online-launching-august-16th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/age-of-empires-online-launching-august-16th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There are just a couple of months yet until you can conquer the world from the comfort of your bedroom, but that's no excuse to let your hygiene slip. Microsoft Game Studios announced that Age of Empires Online will be released on August 16th with two initial civilizations: the Greeks and Egyptians.

As the latest in the long-running civilization sim franchise, Age of Empires Online will allow players to build up persistent towns, establish trade between other players, work on crafting and quests, and even go to war when needed.

While the initial core gameplay will be available for free, Microsoft hopes that players will get so hooked that they'll gladly purchase Age of Empires Online "Premium Content Packs" to enhance their experience. These packs will include new civilizations and game modes. 1UP reports that in addition to the typical digital download, Microsoft will be shipping out retail boxes in order to snag a larger audience -- although these boxes will merely contain instructions how to download the game.

Gallery: Age of Empires Online

MassivelyAge of Empires Online launching August 16th originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-empiresage-of-empires-onlineaoecivilizationcivilization-simegyptiansf2pfree-to-playgallerygas-powered-gamesgreekslaunchlaunch-datemicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiospremium-content-packretailWed, 01 Jun 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythos announces European launch information]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/mythos-releases-release-information/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/mythos-releases-release-information/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/mythos-releases-release-information/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The hard part of anticipating a game early in the development process is the question of when you'll finally get a chance to see it released. Mythos has thankfully killed that part of the anticipation with the official announcement that the game will be going live as of April 28th, 2011. But if you can't wait that long to start in on a hack-and-slash bonanza and haven't been fortunate enough to get into the beta testing, how about a nice shiny box copy?

Before you get your credit card information out, it should be noted that as this is still the European release; the box copy itself is being sold through Amazon.co.uk and will thus be rather limited for American players. For the European contingent, however, buying the box will allow access to the game on the 26th, two days before general release. Mythos players still have time to enjoy the closed beta for now, and as previously noted, open beta will begin on the 12th, if you're still up in the air.

MassivelyMythos announces European launch information originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaboxbox-copyclosed-betaeuropeeuropeanf2pfree-to-playfrogsterhack-and-slashlaunchlaunch-informationmythosmythos-europeopen-betareleaseretailThu, 17 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon's Daniel Kim talks demographics, pre-paid gaming cards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/nexons-daniel-kim-talks-demographics-pre-paid-gaming-cards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/nexons-daniel-kim-talks-demographics-pre-paid-gaming-cards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/nexons-daniel-kim-talks-demographics-pre-paid-gaming-cards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Our friends at Joystiq recently spoke with Nexon CEO Daniel Kim about the runaway success that is the company's pre-paid gaming card program. While Nexon is a well-established gaming powerhouse outside of the U.S., the company's American market is nothing to sneeze at either, with 12 million users spread across its portfolio (7.6 million of them in MapleStory alone).

A big part of Nexon's American success is the pre-paid gaming card, an ubiquitous fixture at retail outlets including Target and 7-11. Kim tells Joystiq that a key factor in raising pre-paid card awareness among consumers was the implementation of an in-game quest designed to train users to head for the music section of their local Target superstore. "So three months leading up to the actual release of the card, we actually had a quest in-game to go get allowance from an NPC, go to the Target store, go to the music section, go find a CD card," he says.

Kim also provides a bit of insight into Nexon's customer demographics, stating that "our median age is really 17, 18, 19." Many of the company's users weren't previously online gamers, and Kim says the microtransaction model is the key to customer attraction and retention. "There's no barrier to entry. If they have a computer and an internet connection, they can download the game and play for as long as they want," he says.

MassivelyNexon's Daniel Kim talks demographics, pre-paid gaming cards originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-11business-modelscasualdaniel-kimf2pfree-to-playgame-time-cardsin-game-questjoystiqmaple-storynexonnexon-americapre-paid-cardretailtargetvindictusMon, 07 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Want a box with that?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/24/the-daily-grind-want-a-box-with-that/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/24/the-daily-grind-want-a-box-with-that/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/24/the-daily-grind-want-a-box-with-that/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With the proliferation of digital-download gaming going on these days, it's getting progressively harder for those of us that care about box copies, collectors editions, cheesy cloth maps, and cheaply produced pewter figurines to get our fix. It's obvious why developers and publishers love digital delivery, as it saves them a lot of distribution money, but does it really benefit the consumer aside from scratching our instant gratification itch?
As I look over at the MMO box museum cluttering the shelves of my game room, I take no small amount of comfort in the fact that I got something tangible for my fifty bucks, even though in most cases the games themselves were incapable of sustaining my interest past the free month. In fact, I've only purchased a digital download twice: Fallen Earth (and I later obtained a box just because) and Darkfall (still hunting for a box).
Subscription-based MMOs are inherently more about renting than owning but -- for now at least -- you can still get a physical copy of your favorite virtual world and, if you're lucky, an outdated manual and a map. Today we ask you, dear readers, do you want a box, or are you OK with leaving your games on a remote server?
Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Want a box with that? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxcheesy-cloth-mapcollectors-editiondigital-distributiondigital-downloaddistributiondownloaddrmfantasymmo-industryopinionphysical-mediaretailsci-fithe-daily-grindSun, 24 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aventurine announces Darkfall price cut]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/aventurine-announces-darkfall-price-cut/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/aventurine-announces-darkfall-price-cut/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/aventurine-announces-darkfall-price-cut/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Aventurine's Tasos Flambouras has surfaced on the Darkfall official forums, and the outspoken developer bears great news for fans of the sandbox-style PvP MMORPG. The game client has seen a price reduction to $29.95 USD (29,95 Euro), as the Greek gaming company prepares to launch Darkfall in various retail establishments.

Additionally, Aventurine has done its European fans a favor by eating the cost of the nasty VAT tax. "This price reduction is part of the preparations for Darkfall's inclusion in online shops and retail outlets. The 29,95 pricing includes VAT which our company has decided to absorb in the case of EU players," Flambouras writes.

Check out the full post on the Darkfall forums, as well as the trial client specific to your region.

[Thanks to Paragus for the tip.]

MassivelyAventurine announces Darkfall price cut originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aventurinedarkfalldarkfall-clientdarkfall-trialprice-reductionpvpretailsandboxtasostasos-flambourasvat-taxMon, 14 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: International community members will get the Sentinel's Fate headstart after all]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/15/exclusive-international-community-members-will-get-the-sentinel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/15/exclusive-international-community-members-will-get-the-sentinel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/15/exclusive-international-community-members-will-get-the-sentinel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With only a month to go before the release of the newest EverQuest II expansion, Sentinel's Fate, many members of the international community were up in arms in the forums over the expansion's pre-order bonuses. Why? Because only the boxed editions of Sentinel's Fate were eligible for the exclusive one week headstart to the expansion.

In order to give retail distributors incentive to carry the boxed version of the game, Sony Online Entertainment made the decision to only provide the head-start access to those who picked up the physical box from retail distributors, while the digital download version of the game would not offer the seven day access and would be available for purchase only when the expansion was officially "live" on February 23rd. Problems began to arise when international community members noticed that they could either not import the game from the US, or importing would take too much time and cost them almost double of what the expansion was worth.

After contacting SOE for a statement on this situation after the many tips we've received from the EQII community, the company has revealed to us that there is now a plan in place for international community members to participate in the retail headstart via a digital download system. Follow after the break to view SOE's plan to get Sentinel's Fate into the hands of their international members.

Continue reading Exclusive: International community members will get the Sentinel's Fate headstart after all

MassivelyExclusive: International community members will get the Sentinel's Fate headstart after all originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdigital-downloadeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-ii-sentinels-fateexpansionforumsinternational-distributionpre-orderretailsentinels-fatesoesony-online-entertainmentFri, 15 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Face of Mankind goes "retail"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/face-of-mankind-goes-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/face-of-mankind-goes-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/face-of-mankind-goes-retail/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The open beta isn't open anymore and the roleplaying first-person shooter MMO has converted into the real thing. Face of Mankind has gone into the "retail" phase and has put all of their accounts on a "premium trial period" to get a taste of what a paid account has to offer. The premium trial period will last until December 29th, so be sure to make your mind up quick.

Good news for veterans of the game, however, as you won't need to subscribe to play this time around. Face of Mankind is instead taking a free-to-play/subscription approach, putting things like access to civilian clothing usage, department creation, carrying a third weapon, and faction leadership and other benefits solely in the hands of paying subscribers. Free-to-play accounts can still play and progress in their faction up to rank 4, own 10 clones, and have 20 spaces of inventory.

Continue reading Face of Mankind goes "retail"

MassivelyFace of Mankind goes "retail" originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaface-of-mankindfomfree-to-playmmofpspremium-accountpremium-trialretailrpgsubscriptionMon, 28 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Who wants to buy a virtual spacestation?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/who-wants-to-buy-a-virtual-spacestation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/who-wants-to-buy-a-virtual-spacestation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/who-wants-to-buy-a-virtual-spacestation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You sir! Can I interest you in this pristine virtual space station? No? Ma'am! Over here ma'am! How would you like to live amongst the stars in a brand new virtual space station?

If you think this post is a silly post, then think again. Planet Calypso (formerly Entropia Universe) really is auctioning off one of their virtual space stations to their players, making this the third time that a major piece of Calypso property has been auctioned off to a private party. This time it's the Crystal Palace Space Station that's up for auction, one of Calypso's long time prime off-world hunting grounds.

What makes this auction so newsworthy is the fact that it will be conducted through Planet Calypso's auction systems using PED (Project Entropia Dollar), which basically makes the virtual space station worth real money, as the PED needs to be purchased by the player with real world currency.

Continue reading Who wants to buy a virtual spacestation?

MassivelyWho wants to buy a virtual spacestation? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctioncrystal-palace-space-stationentropia-universeeventhuntinglandownershipPEDplanet-calypsoproject-entropiareal-world-currencyretailspacestationTue, 08 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online goes gold, will ship as previously scheduled]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/champions-online-goes-gold-will-ship-as-previously-scheduled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/champions-online-goes-gold-will-ship-as-previously-scheduled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/15/champions-online-goes-gold-will-ship-as-previously-scheduled/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Good news for everyone looking forward to jumping -- or flying, or teleporting for that matter -- into Champions Online at the beginning of next month: the official site has proudly announced that the game has gone gold (meaning it's fit for retail distribution) and will be available for purchase on the previously designated release date of September the 1st.

The short news update post also confirmed that the open beta will be going ahead as planned, starting Monday the 17th of August. It's possible that a delay in the release date would have meant a later open beta too, but thankfully we won't have to find out. We expect that a lot of you will have received your open beta keys (from pre-orders or Fileplanet subscriptions) and are getting your clients ready for the kickoff as this news hits. Not long now folks!

MassivelyChampions Online goes gold, will ship as previously scheduled originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 15 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdistributiongoldopen-betaretailshippingSat, 15 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft to be sold exclusively for North America at Best Buy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


One of the titles gamers can look forward to this summer is CrimeCraft, a hybrid of a shooter and urban MMO from Vogster Entertainment, to be published by THQ Inc. in August. Vogster and THQ have taken a somewhat surprising step towards distribution of CrimeCraft in North America; the title will be sold exclusively at Best Buy, either in-store or online.

The exclusivity of this deal may bring some perks to CrimeCraft players. The official release states: "Consumers who purchase CrimeCraft at Best Buy will receive two months of free play time and a number of exclusive in-game items, including two in-game t-shirts from acclaimed real-world fashion labels and a combat backpack for their avatar. Gamers will also receive a virtual Best Buy discount card that allows them to purchase in-game items at a reduced cost. Those gamers pre-ordering CrimeCraft via Best Buy retail stores or online at www.bestbuy.com, will additionally receive virtual in-game shoes from Ecko Unltd., created by fashion icon Marc Ecko, access to play the pre-release version of the game during beta, and three days' head start at the game's launch."

Pre-orders begin on May 31st (online) or on June 7th (in stores). CrimeCraft is still slated for an August 25th launch.

Gallery: CrimeCraft

MassivelyCrimeCraft to be sold exclusively for North America at Best Buy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buybusiness-modelscrimecrimecraftlaunchesmarc-eckommo-industrymmofpsnorth-americapre-ordersretailshooterthird-person-shooterthqvogster-entertainmentFri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online interview confirms details of retail release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/eve-online-interview-confirms-details-of-retail-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/eve-online-interview-confirms-details-of-retail-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/23/eve-online-interview-confirms-details-of-retail-release/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One of announcements that came out of EVE Online's most recent Fanfest was news that the game will be sold on retail shelves this March, with the release of the Apocrypha expansion. A publishing deal struck between EVE's developer CCP Games and Atari means that the game may well see an influx of players in the coming months.

MMORPG.com's Managing Editor Jon Wood caught up with Ryan Dancey, Chief Marketing Officer at CCP Games, and the two discussed how EVE's shift away from being a purely digital product will affect the game. Also notable is that Dancey gives the details of what that $39.95 (€39.99) for the box will buy: Mac and PC versions; a Career Guide for new pilots; 60 days of game time that can be converted into PLEX; automatically have needed standings for factional warfare; a VIP pass which functions like the Buddy Program; and a shuttle with expanded cargo capacity. These extras were previously rumored to be included with the EVE retail purchase, but Ryan Dancey's comments in the MMORPG.com interview would seem to confirm those rumors.

Have a look at the rest of the interview focused on EVE Online's retail release for more on how the publishing deal between CCP Games and Atari is shaping up.

MassivelyEVE Online interview confirms details of retail release originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaatariboxbox-salesbuddy-programbusiness-modelscareer-guideccp-gamesccp-ryan-dccp-ryandeveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2008eve-onlineexpansionsfanfestinterviewsjon-woodmacmmorpg.compcplexretailryan-danceysci-fivip-passMon, 23 Feb 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumors surface of extras included with EVE Online retail release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/rumors-surface-of-extras-included-with-eve-online-retail-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/rumors-surface-of-extras-included-with-eve-online-retail-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/rumors-surface-of-extras-included-with-eve-online-retail-release/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Some of the biggest news to come out of EVE Fanfest 2008 was the publishing deal struck between CCP Games and Atari. The March retail release will mark the first time the game can be seen on store shelves since EVE Online's launch over five years ago. Players have wondered what benefits there might be in purchasing the game at a store, versus the game most of us have always known, which has been a purely digital distribution. While this is still relegated to the category of "rumor", images of the box and descriptions of its content have begun to turn up on the sites of retailers.

One UK game retailer lists the details what's included with the box: 60 days of game time, instant access to factional warfare (i.e. automatic standings via an in-game certificate), a guide to the game's careers, a VIP Pass (essentially the Buddy Program), and a special edition ship -- which, in this case, is listed to be a shuttle with increased cargo space. Fair enough, but is it real? Well if your German isn't too rusty, you can also see details of the retail release as they're listed at Amazon in Germany.

Continue reading Rumors surface of extras included with EVE Online retail release

MassivelyRumors surface of extras included with EVE Online retail release originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonataribuddy-programbusiness-modelsccpccp-gamesccp-sputnikdev-blogeveeve-fanfest-2008eve-onlineforumsmmo-industrypublishingpublishing-dealretailretail-releaserumorrumorsWed, 04 Feb 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next EVE Online expansion named Apocrypha, launches March 10]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/next-eve-online-expansion-named-apocrypha-launches-march-10/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/next-eve-online-expansion-named-apocrypha-launches-march-10/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/next-eve-online-expansion-named-apocrypha-launches-march-10/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


The other day we picked up on a video interview with the CEO of CCP Games, who announced a firm March 10th release date for the next EVE Online expansion -- but until today, that expansion wasn't given a name. CCP Games announced the "Apocrypha" expansion this morning, and a bit of what it'll bring to EVE.

The Apocrypha feature page isn't up yet -- so more details are likely to emerge -- but thus far they've confirmed two new game mechanics will be coming to EVE in March. Wormhole exploration is an upcoming feature that will allow EVE's explorers to discover new technology, used to create the next iteration of ships in New Eden -- Tech III. These modular ship designs will potentially allow for thousands of different configurations of ships to suit different purposes, and are a far cry from the Tech I and Tech II ship hulls currently flown in New Eden. In addition, Apocrypha will bring Epic Mission Arcs. The release states: "These branching, far-reaching mission strings are full of meaningful stories and more intelligent and deadly adversaries."

Continue reading Next EVE Online expansion named Apocrypha, launches March 10

MassivelyNext EVE Online expansion named Apocrypha, launches March 10 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaatariboxbreakingccpccp-gamesciderepic-mission-arcepic-mission-arcseveeve-onlineexpansionsgame-mechanicslaunchesmacmac-clientmmo-industrynew-edennew-featuresnew-player-experiencepremium-graphicsrelease-daterelease-datesretailretail-releasesci-fiThu, 08 Jan 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[4,000 copies of Age of Conan stolen in biggest, most pointless MMO heist ever]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/thieves-steal-4-000-copies-of-age-of-conan-in-biggest-most-poin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/thieves-steal-4-000-copies-of-age-of-conan-in-biggest-most-poin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/thieves-steal-4-000-copies-of-age-of-conan-in-biggest-most-poin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Thieves in the United Kingdom city of Bradford stole 4,000 retail copies of Age of Conan from the back of a truck late at night on Tuesday the 28th of October. The original source, Telegraph & Argus, claims that it was an Xbox 360 version of the game, but we're going to keep our sanity caps on and presume that was an error.

Police are trying to track down the thieves, but we're thinking it ought to be pretty easy to find them if they actually try to play the game themselves, seeing as how they'll need to register with a credit card number and other personal information to do so. We're guessing the thieves didn't realize that when they stole the boxes, eh? No good can come of this for anyone!

[Via CVG]
Warhammer Online Coverage Having fun in Conan's homeland? Make sure to check out all of our previous Age of Conan coverage, and stick with Massively for more news from the Hyborian Age!

Massively4,000 copies of Age of Conan stolen in biggest, most pointless MMO heist ever originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocbradfordcrimecriminalsfuncomhumorpoliceretailstolenstupid-criminalstheftthievesukunited-kingdomWed, 05 Nov 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you buy Collector's Editions?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/the-daily-grind-do-you-buy-collectors-editions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/the-daily-grind-do-you-buy-collectors-editions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/31/the-daily-grind-do-you-buy-collectors-editions/#commentsFiled under: ,

They're expensive and they're usually mostly useless, but they sure are popular anyway! Collector's Editions are a given for any major game release these days, and MMOs are no exception -- Age of Conan and Warhammer Online both had 'em, and even expansion packs get 'em in Wrath of the Lich King's case.

Sometimes they just come with fancy boxes and art work or soundtrack CDs, while other times they come with in-game bonuses like free mounts. Sometimes they even let you play the game earlier. But they're awfully pricey -- what do you think, are they worth it? Have you bought Collector's Editions before, or do you plan to? Or are you perfectly happy forgoing the frills and just getting the basic box?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you buy Collector's Editions? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaoccecollectors-editiondiscussionopinionretailspecial-editiontdgthe-daily-grindwarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwrathwrath-of-the-lich-kingFri, 31 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR downtime and early retail key deadline]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/war-downtime-and-early-retail-key-deadline/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/war-downtime-and-early-retail-key-deadline/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/war-downtime-and-early-retail-key-deadline/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


[Update 2] We're happy to report that Mythic has re-extended the deadline until the end of August 22nd for all customers of Amazon, GoGamer and the EA Store.

Your first day-long binge of Warhammer Online is over and done with, so what's next? If you're Mythic Entertainment you've got from 9am EDT to 1:30pm EDT to get your servers ready for further beatings. Otherwise, four hours is a plenty of time to have some lunch and see a good matinee. It's not really a big surprise that there's going to be some extended maintenance today as the servers have been up and running since last Sunday. It's actually the game's first "weekly scheduled maintenance" in a way.

The other piece of pertinent news is that if you didn't enter your retail CD key by 7am EDT today, then you won't be able to login to Warhammer Online until your account is properly loaded with that magical string of numbers and letters. No big deal for anyone who bought their copy in meat space but if you pre-ordered the game from an online store other than Electronic Arts' tiny online abode you may need to start killing in the name of Sigmar and hoping for the best. If you did make your order through the EA Store you'll be happy to know EA should be sending info on how to keep playing until your copy arrives. This is obviously bad good news for anyone who didn't overnight their game from a non-EA online vendor, but it's irrational to expect EA to force Amazon, Gamestop or any number of other stores to immediately validate every single online purchase.

[Update] According to a post on the Warhammer Alliance forums, the original date for entering retail keys was Monday, August 22nd. That date has since been removed from the pre-order page and apparently changed to today. Swing and a miss? Definitely.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out all of our previous Warhammer Online features, and don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyWAR downtime and early retail key deadline originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazoncd-keyeaea-storeelectronic-artsgamestopmythicmythic-entertainmentretailvalidationwarwarhammer-onlineFri, 19 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft begins selling 14-day MMO trials at retail]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/ncsoft-begins-selling-14-day-mmo-trials-at-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/ncsoft-begins-selling-14-day-mmo-trials-at-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/ncsoft-begins-selling-14-day-mmo-trials-at-retail/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

NCsoft Europe announced that it has begun selling in the U.K. what it calls "starter packs" for some of its games - City of Heroes, City of Villains, Guild Wars, and Lineage II. Tabula Rasa will follow later in the year. The packs cost £1.99 at retail, and come with all game content plus a two week trial subscription period, encouraging players to return to buy the game at retail when the period ends.

This is essentially your standard 14-day trial -- a staple in the industry -- made available through retail for would-be subscribers who might not come across such opportunities on the web. NCsoft hopes that this move will net some new customers -- especially for its struggling properties.

"In an ever increasingly digitally orientated retail environment, encouraging players to return to retail is a win-win for both outlet and publisher," said an NCsoft rep. We had heard that the whole digital download thing could be the saving grace of the PC platform, but whatever!

MassivelyNCsoft begins selling 14-day MMO trials at retail originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 May 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdemoeuropeguild-warslineage-2lineage-iincsoftncsoft-europepublishingretailsubscriptiontabula-rasatrialukThu, 15 May 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[AoC account registration begins for pre-order customers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/aoc-account-registration-begins-for-pre-order-customers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/aoc-account-registration-begins-for-pre-order-customers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/aoc-account-registration-begins-for-pre-order-customers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Funcom has opened up Age of Conan account registration for customers who pre-ordered the game. This includes the Early Access service. For a $5 or €5 fee, all those who pre-ordered the game may gain access to the servers on May 17th, three days ahead of the North American launch and six days ahead of the European launch.

Previously, Europeans who paid for Early Access could jump into the game on the 20th, but Funcom has announced that those folks may now begin play at the same time as Americans, so the 17th is the day for everyone now! Hopefully some of the performance issues will be resolved by then. It looks like they might be.

[Via Ten Ton Hammer]

MassivelyAoC account registration begins for pre-order customers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 May 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accountage-of-conanamericaaocearly-accesseuropefuncomlaunchmaymay-17may-20may-23pre-orderpre-ordersregistrationretailTue, 06 May 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bling Gnome coming with Dungeon Runners retail box]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/bling-gnome-coming-with-dungeon-runners-retail-box/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/bling-gnome-coming-with-dungeon-runners-retail-box/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/bling-gnome-coming-with-dungeon-runners-retail-box/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In the latest update to their blog, the Dungeon Runners team has thrown up some new details that we can expect to see in the next Heave, the twisted DR version of a patch. One of the more interesting details (and honestly, when isn't there an interesting detail in a Dungeon Runners update?) to emerge was the announcement of a so-called "Bling Gnome." Having been rumored to be in the works since late last year, the Bling Gnome is a passive ability that grants you a little gnome buddy who runs around and picks up all your gold for you. Unfortunately, he is selective about his company, and will only hang out with people who pick up the retail box, which will be available some time early this summer.

Some of the other changes they're throwing in to get you to pick up the paid version of the game are a decrease in free player experience gains, an increase in the gold found by paid players, a decrease in the amount of gold necessary to buy new items for paid players, and a decrease in the chances that a free player will find rare drops. They seem to be striking the right balance between giving players incentives to pay, and not creating some sort of byzantine player hierarchy, a la Hellgate: London.

MassivelyBling Gnome coming with Dungeon Runners retail box originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bling-gnomedrdungeon-runnersfree-to-playheavencsoftretailthe-blogTue, 08 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[7-Eleven sells Nexon Game Cards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/7-eleven-sells-nexon-game-cards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/7-eleven-sells-nexon-game-cards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/7-eleven-sells-nexon-game-cards/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Worlds in Motion reports that you can now buy game cards for MapleStory and other Nexon games at your local 7-Eleven convenience store. The game cards -- which cost $10 or $25 -- can be used to purchase in-game items.

At first, this struck us as bizarre, but it actually makes some sense. A 7-Eleven representative is quoted in the Worlds in Motion article saying that the cards are perfect for the "tweens and teens" who enjoy MapleStory -- a demographic that also happens to frequent 7-Eleven. The representative calls it "the Slurpee-beverage crowd."

It's a strange world. Next thing you know we'll be buying EQ2 game-time cards at the gasoline pump!

Massively7-Eleven sells Nexon Game Cards originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-117-elevenauditioncash-shopconvenience-storegame-cardskartridermaplestorynexonretailstoreteenstweensworlds-in-motionFri, 30 Nov 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tabula Rasa launch: how it went]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/tabula-rasa-launch-how-it-went/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/tabula-rasa-launch-how-it-went/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/tabula-rasa-launch-how-it-went/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Seek him there, mortal. In the... wait, what? Wrong game?It's now over three days since Tabula Rasa went retail, so I thought I'd cover the kind of launch and reception that it's received so far.

Let's face it: MMO launch servers are notorious for spending their first couple of days offline -- but in a surprise twist, I'm still yet to encounter any of the TR servers going down for more than a second. Having said that, the game seems to have attracted a lot more players than NCsoft were expecting -- the solitary EU server in particular has been almost continuously maximum population since day one, and starting today I've had to queue up to enter. Not cool. There's also been major lag on the EU server at peak times with so many players logged in at once.

In more continental news, there's a large French (and German) community on Centaurus, both of which are obviously keen on getting their own language-specific server. A second or third EU server at very least is badly needed, but as yet there's been no announcement from NCsoft. Over on the US servers, things have been a lot more stable -- so much so, I've already decided to skip over to Pegasus.

Overall, I've been quite surprised by how enthusiastic the reception Tabula Rasa has received from players in-game has been. Opinions were divided in the beta prior to launch, and I personally thought the game was being launched early -- but the TR crew have cleared up the code, improved framerates, and given the game the extra layer of polish needed. By polish, yes, I *do* mean wearable shades.

The chat interface is still awful, though.

(Note -- there's almost no reviews for RGTR up at present, but once a sufficient amount have hit the Internet, we'll throw up a Joystiq-style metareview for your enjoyment.)

MassivelyTabula Rasa launch: how it went originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Nov 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>centauruslaunchncsoftpegasusretailtabula-rasaMon, 05 Nov 2007 09:00:00 EST