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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Decisional paralysis in EverQuest II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/the-tattered-notebook-decisional-paralysis-in-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/the-tattered-notebook-decisional-paralysis-in-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/the-tattered-notebook-decisional-paralysis-in-everquest-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Tattered Notebook - Decisional paralysis in EverQuest II
So the last time we talked EverQuest II, I confessed that coming back to the game felt a lot like coming home. That's still true, in more ways than I first realized. I don't know about you, but when I return after a lengthy absence I have an overwhelming urge to get things done. As I look around the place and figure out what's changed, what needs fixing, and what seems like fun, I tend to get overwhelmed, too, because there's just a lot of stuff that needs doing.

That's exactly what happened to me in Norrath over the past two weeks. I logged in with my 92 Sage and my 92 Shadowknight, surveyed their vast array of abilities and possibilities, and promptly threw up my hands.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Decisional paralysis in EverQuest II

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Decisional paralysis in EverQuest II originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>decisional-paralysisechoes-of-faydwereqeq-2eq-iieq2eq2-solo-contenteq2-solo-timelineeqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgorowynopinionpverise-of-kunarksoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebook-jef-reahardSat, 26 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Will Age of Discovery be the last EQII expansion?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/the-tattered-notebook-will-age-of-discovery-be-the-last-eqii-expans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/the-tattered-notebook-will-age-of-discovery-be-the-last-eqii-expans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/the-tattered-notebook-will-age-of-discovery-be-the-last-eqii-expans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EQiI Jester
It's amazing how much can change in just over a year. At the end of last summer, we were wrapping up Fan Faire and looking forward to Destiny of Velious, the upcoming expansion and the first of what was supposed to be a two-part expansion. This past weekend, just over a year later, I was headed to #OccupyNorrath to check out the planned protest, part of which was aimed at the cost of the new expansion, Age of Discovery. While the protest was light, to put it mildly, there has been quite a bit of rumbling on the forums about this upcoming expansion and the fact that while it might be heavy on features, it's pretty light on new content.

Now, when I question whether Age of Discovery will be the last EverQuest II expansion, I'm certainly not predicting that all production will cease and desist in the game afterwards. But I think it's worth asking whether we're seeing a shift away from the traditional expansion model. Let's take a look back the past year and a half because I think it offers hints that might help explain the bigger picture for the game.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Will Age of Discovery be the last EQII expansion?

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Will Age of Discovery be the last EQII expansion? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aqe-of-discoverydave-georgesondestiny-of-veliouseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionsfeaturedfree-to-playkaren-bryanrise-of-kunarksentinels-fateshadow-odysseysoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttattered-notebookSat, 26 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Six years of EverQuest II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/the-tattered-notebook-six-years-of-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/the-tattered-notebook-six-years-of-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/the-tattered-notebook-six-years-of-everquest-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I looked down at the dog-eared journal and shivered. As excited as I was to finally be in possession of The Tattered Notebook, I recalled the fates of its previous owners. First, seemingly out of madness, Seccia made a sudden and unexpected career change to blog about kittens. Now, Scarve, a Ratonga, has disappeared in the night, leaving behind only a wedge of cheese, this tattered notebook, and a tiny stuffed Kerran doll. Rumors spread of his appearance among a shadowy cult of Gnomish tinkerers, but it's unclear whether he's with them by choice or by force.

Regardless, I took a deep breath and opened the cover. What a perfect time to begin adding my entries to the journal, right at the celebration of EverQuest II's six-year anniversary! To celebrate, the game is holding its second annual Festival of Heroes, from November 19-30. In honor of this milestone, my first entry into The Tattered Notebook is a retrospective of those past six years, with an eye towards the future.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Six years of EverQuest II

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Six years of EverQuest II originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packanniversaryappearance-slotbillybirthdaybloodline-chroniclesdesert-of-flamesechoes-of-faydwereqEQ2EQIIeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexchangeexchange-serversf2pfallen-dynastyfan-fairefan-faire-2010featuredfestival-of-heroesfree-to-playfreemiumhousingkingdom-of-skymarketplaceNorrathplayer-housingRetrospectiverise-of-kunarksentinels-fateSOEsoe-eq-2SONYSony-Online-Entertainmentsplitpaw-sagathe-shadow-odysseythe-tattered-notebookMon, 08 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Features announced for EQII's Game Update 52]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/features-announced-for-eqiis-game-update-52/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/features-announced-for-eqiis-game-update-52/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/features-announced-for-eqiis-game-update-52/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


EverQuest II's Game Update 52: Monument and Might is almost ready to roll out on the Test server, and the official community site has put up a preview of some of the highlights of the patch. There seems to be a focus on the Rise of Kunark areas for this update. Here's what the preview tells us is coming:

  • The player-written books we had a look at last month
  • A new zone called the Emperor's Athenaeum in Charasis
  • A group instance called Kurn's Tower: Breaching the Void
  • A x2 raid zone also based on Kurn's Tower
  • Research Assistants that can upgrade spells and combat arts
  • Over 80 new quests in the overland zones of RoK
We spotted a post from Kiara on the forums saying that these things are planned to be on Test next week if possible, so it won't be long until we know a lot more.

MassivelyFeatures announced for EQII's Game Update 52 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 May 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charasisemperors-athenaeumeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iigame-update-52gu-52gu52gu52-monument-and-mightkurns-towermonument-and-mightplayer-written-booksraidingresearch-assistantsrise-of-kunarkroksoesony-online-entertainmentFri, 15 May 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE rolls out Recruit-a-Friend program for EQ2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/soe-rolls-out-recruit-a-friend-program-for-eq2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/soe-rolls-out-recruit-a-friend-program-for-eq2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/soe-rolls-out-recruit-a-friend-program-for-eq2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

What's better than playing an MMORPG by yourself? Playing one with friends of course! Realizing this, SOE just rolled out a Recruit-a-Friend program for EverQuest II. This is one of the better Recruit-a-Friend programs we've seen lately considering the quality of incentives.

Anyone with an EQ2 account in good standing, active or inactive, can invite their friends to take a free 14-day trial of EQ2 content up to the Rise of Kunark expansion. There does not appear to be any limit to how many friends you can invite. While grouped with a friend, you will (both?) receive a 3x experience bonus. Mentor the friend and he or she will receive an additional 10% adventure experience. If you friend decides to stick around (i.e., register an account), you will receive a free month subscription added to your account up to a maximum of 25-months. You will also receive a free exclusive mount. Additional rewards include two free Legends of Norrath Oathbreaker booster packs and 250 Station Cash for the first friend you convert to the game

MassivelySOE rolls out Recruit-a-Friend program for EQ2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2everquest-2everquest-iirecruit-a-friendrise-of-kunarksoeTue, 10 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest 2 developer previews upcoming content changes in GU 47]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/developer-previews-upcoming-content-changes-in-eq2-gu-47/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/developer-previews-upcoming-content-changes-in-eq2-gu-47/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/developer-previews-upcoming-content-changes-in-eq2-gu-47/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The much-anticipated addition of Vivox voice chat isn't the only thing being added to EverQuest II in the upcoming Game Update 47. Developer Ilucide dropped into the forums for a chat with the players, to lay out changes being made to a few Rise of Kunark content areas and a source of much frustration: writs. Judging by player response in the fourm thread, the change to writs will be most welcome. The previous number of writs required to go from 0 to ally faction was 267. The new number is 80. As Kunark faction was already relatively easy to climb through, this is primarily intended to make city faction more palateable. Additional changes may be in the works for these items, as the developers mull ways to make this particular part of the game more meaningful for players.

The content changes center around two dungeons. Karnor's Castle has been tuned to be more receptive to small group play in the 72-76 bracket. Difficulty has been generally lowered, and the mob spawns thinned out, to allow for players to have a better time in that playing mode. Meanwhile Sebilis and Chardok have been made less generally annoying. Lower level magical treasure has been removed from the loot tables, ensuring only loot commensurate with the areas will drop. Placeholders for some named critters have also been removed, meaning that a named monster is either 'up' or not - spawn camping will not be a requirement in these zone any longer.

Sound off EQ2 players! How do these changes sound to you?

MassivelyEverQuest 2 developer previews upcoming content changes in GU 47 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-writseq2eq2-gu-47everquest-2everquest-iirise-of-kunarksoesony-online-entertainmentTue, 08 Jul 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your favorite MMOG expansion?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-mmog-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-mmog-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-mmog-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , ,


With the upcoming World of Warcraft expansion, Wrath of the Lich King, Lord of the Rings Online's upcoming Mines of Moria and the recent announcement that Rise of Kunark is the #1 highest selling EverQuest II expansion as yet, we've been thinking about expansions. Some people insist that all expansions are is catering to the endgame raiders, in creating more levels to run through before serving up new raid instances. Other expansions do bring in things for lower-end players, like Burning Crusade and Rise of Kunark introduced new races to play, and new areas for them to play in. Today we'd like to ask you what your favorite MMOG expansion has been to date and why? Which games desperately need an expansion to bring something new to the game?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your favorite MMOG expansion? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrorise-of-kunarksoethe-daily-grindturbineworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 01 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise of Kunark now the best-selling EQ2 expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/rise-of-kunark-now-the-best-selling-eq2-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/rise-of-kunark-now-the-best-selling-eq2-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/rise-of-kunark-now-the-best-selling-eq2-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Rise of Kunark can now put one more feather in its cap: the best selling EverQuest II expansion feather. After a strong pre-order and successful critical reception, it seems like Kunark is SOE's golden boy expansion. We suppose it also helped that buying Rise of Kunark also netted the purchaser every expansion plus the original game. Still, it wouldn't be much of a stretch to expect more EverQuest II expansion packs to follow some of the notes previously played by Kunark.

Between all the continued game updates adding more content and another expansion pack coming sometime soon, EQ2 players should have quite a bit to be happy about. It's no wonder the expansion pack has sold so well, as satisfied gamers are always much more prone to opening their wallets.

MassivelyRise of Kunark now the best-selling EQ2 expansion originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2everquesteverquest-iirise-of-kunarksoesony-online-entertainmentFri, 30 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The next EQ2 expansion is ... Odus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/the-next-eq2-expansion-is-odus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/the-next-eq2-expansion-is-odus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/the-next-eq2-expansion-is-odus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Those who trusted to the Word arrived none too soon, for our ship had barely docked at their primitive outpost when the earth beneath us trembled and rolled. For many long years the earth shook violently, finally tearing Tunaria (that which the humans call Antonica) apart. -- The History of the Erudites

If "The Shadow of Odyssey" doesn't deal with an invasion from the Void (the Shadowmen's home plane), what else can we guess from the name? The title is fairly ambivalent. Is there something called Odyssey that casts a Shadow? Is there a Shadow from a place called Odyssey? Is it metaphorical -- could the appearance of Odyssey bring a darkness to the world?

Previous EQ2 expansions have always talked of places -- the Desert of Flames; the Kingdom of Sky; the Echoes of Faydwer; the Rise of Kunark. If they follow this same trend, then, Odyssey is a place. It is unlikely that it is a Shadowman place. It could be; we just don't know yet. Adventuring in the Void would be a truly unique experience.

There's no reason to go to another plane of existence for Odyssey... not when we have the whole continent of Odus still unfound. Odyssey, Odus... could the similarity of the names be just a coincidence? Five hundred years in EQ2's past, Erudites were fairly normal looking people. In EQ2's present, Erudites have evolved into something quite different indeed. Gray, almost metallic looking skin; colored tattoos on their bodies that seem to pulse with an arcane illumination. It is difficult to believe that a race so attuned to the threads of magic that connect together the universe would have been unaware of what was happening to Luclin, a moon surrounded by and infused with magic. They would have protected their home somehow.

Perhaps they gathered together their most powerful wizards and, using the power that had once torn from the ground an entire Kerran village and the land for kilometers below it and transported it to Luclin, pulled the continent from the land and took it to safety when the moon began to split and their cousins who had followed Quellious' call to travel to Qeynos had gone.

Freed from Norrath, Odus would become Odyssey; and in its journeys, would cast a very large shadow indeed. Now that the Age of Shattering is long over and the world of Norrath is at relative peace, they have returned. The Erudites we see around are exiles, waiting for the day when Quellious calls them home again.

Could The Shadow of Odyssey have anything to do with the Plane of Shadow? >>>>>

MassivelyThe next EQ2 expansion is ... Odus originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-shatteringdesert-of-flamesechoes-of-faydwereq2eqiieruditeseverquest-2everquest-iikerrankingdom-of-skyluclinodusquelliousrise-of-kunarkshadow-of-odysseyFri, 25 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview with Thomas Sincich, EQ2 character artist]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/interview-with-thomas-sincich-eq2-character-artist/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/interview-with-thomas-sincich-eq2-character-artist/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/interview-with-thomas-sincich-eq2-character-artist/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


SOE recently posted a new video developer chat. In this month's edition, Midori "Momochi" McDaniel chats with EverQuest 2 character artist Thomas Sincich, about his work on EQ2's fifth expansion and Legends of Norrath, his character work on the Arasai and Sarnak races, and his designs for epic armor and the Soulfire weapons.

You can download the entire DevDiary chat and see some of Thomas' absolutely stunning artwork, but it's a bit large, so we've transcribed it here for your enjoyment. Click through the break to read the whole thing, and check out some of our previous EverQuest 2 developer interviews.

Continue reading Interview with Thomas Sincich, EQ2 character artist

MassivelyInterview with Thomas Sincich, EQ2 character artist originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arasaidevdiaryeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedlegends-of-norrathmidori-mcdanielrise-of-kunarkroksarnaksoethomas-sincichWed, 26 Mar 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EQII designer Kyle Vallée interviewed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/eqii-designer-kyle-vallee-interviewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/eqii-designer-kyle-vallee-interviewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/eqii-designer-kyle-vallee-interviewed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Over at EQ2Vault, one of EverQuest II's designers Kyle Vallée answered a couple of questions about his work on the game, and Rise of Kunark in particular. Vallée was the designer for three of the epic quests (Shadowknight, Brigand and Ranger) that were introduced in Game Update 42, and also for the Jarsath Wastes area in RoK. These are just some of his larger projects, and he talks about a few of the other things he has done in the interview too.

Aside from his designing, he loves to play the game as well, and his level 80 Brigand, 75 Bruiser and 70 Warden are testament to that fact. When asked if he could tell us anything about the next EQII expansion, we expectedly get nothing -- but we're assured that it will be good! View the whole interview at EQ2Vault.

MassivelyEQII designer Kyle Vallée interviewed originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-questseq2eqiieverquest-2jarsath-wasteskyle-valleerise-of-kunarksoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 17 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: The beach in Timorous Deep]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/one-shots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/one-shots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/one-shots/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Today I thought I'd show off a spot that I've been in somewhat recently that hasn't been shown here as yet. This screenshot is of the newest starting area in Everquest II. Timorous Deep was introduced in the most recent expansion, Rise of Kunark, which introduced the Sarnak as a new playable race. The architecture is heavily Asian influenced, as is the art style for the design of the Sarnak race -- their heads certainly resemble more traditional Eastern dragons. In any case, it was certainly a lovely area to play through for a just-starting character, so I snapped a screenshot on my machine to share!

Have you seen a starting area or location in a game you've played that just looked really cool? If so, send those screenshots (and related quick info) to us at oneshots@massively.com. Your screens could be up here next for the world to see!

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: The beach in Timorous Deep originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2everquest-iiexpansionone-shotsrise-of-kunarksarnakscreenshotscreenshotssoestarting-areaWed, 27 Feb 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive Swashbuckler Epic concept art revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/30/exclusive-swashbuckler-epic-concept-art-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/30/exclusive-swashbuckler-epic-concept-art-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/30/exclusive-swashbuckler-epic-concept-art-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Earlier in the week we spotlighted leaked photos of two of the twenty-four Epic weapons being introduced in EverQuest II's Game Update 42 this Tuesday. Today we got our greedy little hands on the concept art behind another one, the Swashbuckler epic, a sword (rapier?) dubbed "Charm's Way." You can click on the image to see a larger version.

These class epic weapons will only be acquired at the end of a long quest whose steps are not revealed. Players will have to piece together the clues spread across Norrath to even find the quest starter. No pre-released guides for these bad boys. Why? A short history lesson going back into MMO history explains all.

Continue reading Exclusive Swashbuckler Epic concept art revealed

MassivelyExclusive Swashbuckler Epic concept art revealed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jan 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aradunebard-mcquaidbreakingcharms-wayeqeq2everquestfeaturedfiery-defendergame-update-42gu42omens-of-warpaladinrise-of-kunarkruins-of-kunarksoeswashbuckler-epicWed, 30 Jan 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EQ2 Game Update 42 to include epic quests]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/26/eq2-game-update-42-to-include-epic-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/26/eq2-game-update-42-to-include-epic-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/26/eq2-game-update-42-to-include-epic-quests/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We have already had a preview of what is in store for EverQuest II's Game Update 42 with the recent patch notes for the Test server -- some new deities, house mannequins to display weapons and armor, a connection stats window etc. However, it appears that the Live server version of this update will implement, at long last, the epic weapon quests. The epic quests had originally been slated to release with the Rise of Kunark expansion, but due to the San Diego fires, development was pushed back. To make the original release after their setbacks would have meant a compromise to the quality of the quests or to the quality of the expansion, depending on how they channeled their resources, and neither of these options were preferable for the development team.

EQII producer Bruce Ferguson has talked in the past about the epic quests, and in the above producer's letter, he mentions how careful the team is being with information relating to their completion. This is of course the reason that the quests were not released on Test along with the other GU42 features, as there would likely be a detailed walkthrough somewhere on the web before they even went live. Ferguson says that the team is on schedule and they hope to release GU42 in early February.

MassivelyEQ2 Game Update 42 to include epic quests originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Jan 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbruce-fergusonepic-questsepic-weaponsepicseq2eqiieverquest-2froechgame-update-42gu42rise-of-kunarkSat, 26 Jan 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tradeskill developer for EQII Emily "Domino" Taylor chats about her role]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/03/tradeskill-developer-for-eqii-emily-domino-taylor-chats-about/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/03/tradeskill-developer-for-eqii-emily-domino-taylor-chats-about/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/03/tradeskill-developer-for-eqii-emily-domino-taylor-chats-about/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Tradeskill developer for EverQuest II Emily Taylor (better known to the community as "Domino") was recently interviewed by The Tairise Tribune. Anyone who has ever read the official EQII tradeskill forums will more than likely have seen a post by Domino, or a reply to a player's question, or a hint about upcoming content and changes -- in truth, her level of interaction with the community is amazing, and it's nice to see people's feedback and suggestions being acknowledged by the person who calls the shots.

in the interview, Domino discusses her role with SOE and EQII, working with her team on deadlines (such as the huge amount of new content required for Rise of Kunark) and how working with gaming industry "celebrities" has been far more rewarding for her than meeting the Hollywood celebrities that she did in her former job. It also appears that she isn't above a little real-life tradeskilling too, as she mentions that she has recently been constructing Weighted Companion Cubes inspired by Valve's hit game Portal. Check out the full interview for more from Domino.

[Via EQ2Players]

MassivelyTradeskill developer for EQII Emily "Domino" Taylor chats about her role originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dominoemily-tayloreq2eqiieverquest-2rise-of-kunarkroksoesony-online-entertainmenttradeskillThu, 03 Jan 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bruce Ferguson on EQII's Epic Weapon quests]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/23/bruce-ferguson-on-eqiis-epic-weapon-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/23/bruce-ferguson-on-eqiis-epic-weapon-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/23/bruce-ferguson-on-eqiis-epic-weapon-quests/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Like many EverQuest II players, you may have been disappointed to learn that the Epic quests were not being released alongside the Rise of Kunark expansion as was originally planned. Now-former senior producer for EQII Scott Hartsman let the community know that this was due to the San Diego fires, but Clockwork Gamer recently had an interview with Hartsman's successor Bruce Ferguson who was able to tell us a little more about the Epic quests.

Among other things, we find out that the Epic quests should be released together, as opposed to be rolled out for different classes at different times. They will all be weapons (no shields, armor or anything like that) and most of the effects on these weapons will be unique to the Epics. Ferguson also says that Game Update 42 will introduce a feature that lets you display items in your house without changing them into something else, by putting them in a display case.

Follow the related story link to read the full interview at Clockwork Gamer.

MassivelyBruce Ferguson on EQII's Epic Weapon quests originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 23 Dec 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bruce-fergusonepicepic-questepic-weaponeq2eqiieverquest-2froechrise-of-kunarksoesony-online-entertainmentSun, 23 Dec 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOG Podcast Roundup: Dec. 1st - Dec. 18th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/18/mmog-podcast-roundup-dec-1st-dec-18th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/18/mmog-podcast-roundup-dec-1st-dec-18th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/18/mmog-podcast-roundup-dec-1st-dec-18th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Every week, hardworking Massive gaming fans put their voices on the line to bring us news, opinions, and 'critiques' of their favorite games. Podcasts are a staple of many hobbies nowadays, and fans of online worlds are especially fortunate in this regard ... there are a ton out there.

As such, every so often we'll try to update you on the podcasting world. Keep your eyes on this space for links to your favorite MMO-commentary celebs. Good and bad, straight-man or blue-mouthed, they all have something to offer about this amazing style of gameplay.

This month more than ever the podcasters have spoken ... and spoken, and spoken. The huge update today is my fault, though. Thanks to a fairly spectacular PC failure last week my productivity has gone way down; some people have problems separating their gaming and work lives - I have a problem working if I can't game!

Today's highlighted 'casts both talk about Sony Online Entertainment games - one of the exclusively. The official SOE podcast is the only thing like it in the Massive gaming space. It's not as big budget as Bungie's offering, perhaps, but it's still a fascinating look behind the scenes at one of the biggest MMOG publishers out there. Episode 27 is all about the holiday events in SOE games from the dev team perspective; holiday appropriate and intersting to boot!

The other 'cast I want to highlight almost seemed like it had gone AWOL. EQ2-Daily has been a staple of the MMOG podcasting scene for some time - their 50th episode was back in October, and we haven't heard a peep out of them since Rise of Kunark launched. But rejoice, EQ2-Daily: Episode 51 was released just a few days ago. With news about the departure of EverQuest 2's senior producer and controversy about character transfers, their insights into the game are sure to be heartily appreciated.

Check out the casts' of December, and make sure to have a great Holiday.

Continue reading MMOG Podcast Roundup: Dec. 1st - Dec. 18th

MassivelyMMOG Podcast Roundup: Dec. 1st - Dec. 18th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Dec 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzard-activisioneq2eq2-dailyfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesmoose-and-wowpodcastsrise-of-kunarksoeTue, 18 Dec 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Community cartographers take on Kunark]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/community-cartographers-take-on-kunark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/community-cartographers-take-on-kunark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/community-cartographers-take-on-kunark/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


EverQuest II forum member Lenefir created a traveler's map of Kunark for players who are just getting started with exploring the new expansion. If you're one of those players, the map will help you locate the docks, the Wizard spire, both Druid rings, all zone lines, and the Sokokar Posts for fast travel around the continent.

Another forum member named aprilweeks posted several zone-specific travel maps as well. It's always nice to see players creating deep, complete game-play guides. Not that long ago some LotRO players created a huge guide to housing decorations, too. It's those sorts of community things that make this genre of games special.

MassivelyCommunity cartographers take on Kunark originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aprilweekscommunitydruid-ringeverquest-iiforumskunarklenefirmapplayersrise-of-kunarksoesokokarsokokar-poststravelwizard-spirezone-lineszonesThu, 29 Nov 2007 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EQ2: RoK's screwy itemization to result in upcoming nerfs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/eq2-roks-screwy-itemization-to-result-in-upcoming-nerfs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/eq2-roks-screwy-itemization-to-result-in-upcoming-nerfs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/eq2-roks-screwy-itemization-to-result-in-upcoming-nerfs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


I guess the leveling and itemization EQ2 devs cranked up the ez-mode a little too far, and completely spaced off during RoK's beta phase. Fyreflyte, dev extraordinaire, popped by the official EQ2 boards yesterday to deliver the news that a rather large tune (nerf) is in-store for the effects found on Rise of Kunark's Treasured items, such as Overflow and Divine Restoration.

The reason given for the upcoming nerfs is that while effects will automatically scale down on lower quality gear, given how easy it is to acquire these items they did not scale down enough resulting in a huge imbalance as these effects were intended for Legendary quality gear and not Treasured. O'rly? The stats on the items will remain the same, but the effects power will subside by at least 1/3 in some cases. Swinging the ole' nerf bat on items doesn't end there as the four rewards from the Anaphylaxis quest will be nerfed from Fabled to Legendary quality.

Don't you love the pleasantries like "hotfix" and "tune" that MMOG developers like to use today? I call it like I see it. Nerfs stink even when they are an evil necessary, but the devs blundered this one to the Ruins of Kunark and back. This should have never happened, but it did, and even the non-loot whores get to pay for it. What about all those players that replaced all their old gear with? This nerf is going to affect a lot of players.

MassivelyEQ2: RoK's screwy itemization to result in upcoming nerfs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iiitemizationnerfsrise-of-kunarkroksoeThu, 29 Nov 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise of Kunark replaces lore with bore]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/rise-of-kunark-replaces-lore-with-bore/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/rise-of-kunark-replaces-lore-with-bore/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/rise-of-kunark-replaces-lore-with-bore/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If any sect of gamers was ever prone to nostalgia, it's RPG players. If you're ever in a situation where you want to get a nerd talking, just ask him about the most epic D&D campaign he's ever been a party to. It's got a 99.9% success rate, just try it. In the same vein, Clockwork Gamer's Kendricke spins a yarn about his nostalgia for the pure story-driven goodness of his first introduction into the world of high fantasy. Using Rise of Kunark as an example, he explains how the repetitive kill and fetch quests that proliferate in the new EQ2 expansion have neutered whatever sense of time and place the player had.

It's a sentiment that's nothing new, as our own Marc Nottke recently proclaimed the death of roleplaying in MMO. Kendricke's argument is much more focused, however. He say that Rise of Kunark has none of the pan-expansion story arcs that made Planes of Power, Legacy of Ykesha, and even Gates of Discord fun for players. Is it really any surprise then when players blast through all the content in a manner of days? You can't stop and smell the roses if there aren't any flowers on the way.

MassivelyRise of Kunark replaces lore with bore originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Nov 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clockwork-gamerEQ2fetch-questshigh-fantasykendrickekill-questsrise-of-kunarkRPGsoeWed, 28 Nov 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Does Rise of Kunark offer enough to keep people playing down the track?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/does-rise-of-kunark-offer-enough-to-keep-people-playing-down-the/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/does-rise-of-kunark-offer-enough-to-keep-people-playing-down-the/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/28/does-rise-of-kunark-offer-enough-to-keep-people-playing-down-the/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The question was raised by Ogrebear, in an article entitled "Rise of Kunark will hurt EQ2 in the long run": are the hardcore players burning through the EverQuest II expansion's content a little too fast? Of course, you always expect there to be a fraction of the player base that will race through a new expansion, hit the level cap together with their guild and storm the premier raid content. However, Ogrebear notes that some top guilds have already finished all but one of the raid zones -- meaning six other raid zones have been fully cleaned out. Surely the one remaining raid zone will not keep these people occupied until the next expansion?

There will undoubtedly be content updates along the way, but for the core gameplay of this major expansion to have already been busted wide open comes as a bit of a surprise. Perhaps the last remaining raid dungeon, Veeshan's Peak, will be dramatically more difficult to conquer. But even still, how long will players be able to stand being stuck in the same dungeon if it is tuned to be stretched out so long? The average player is going to be well behind this curve, but with the speed at which everything has been trailblazed so far, the most obvious conclusion is that the raid content has simply been made easier than we've come to expect.

MassivelyDoes Rise of Kunark offer enough to keep people playing down the track? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contenteq2eqiieverquest-2rise-of-kunarkrokveeshans-peakWed, 28 Nov 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's the rush?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/the-daily-grind-whats-the-rush/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/the-daily-grind-whats-the-rush/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/the-daily-grind-whats-the-rush/#commentsFiled under: ,


Somebody always does it. Shortly after any expansion launches you can expect someone to plow through all those levels and reach the maximum cap in less than a few days. This recently happened again in Rise of Kunark, 36 hours after the EverQuest 2 expansion hit desktops, Monk Taucher from the guild Second Dawn leveled from 70-80 netting a 100 dollar prize and their claim to short-lived leveling fame.

I can understand the achievement aspect of wanting to level as fast as possible, reach the end and be done with it, but even so in an expansion hardcore players who raid won't be able to raid until their guild catches up. Doesn't this defeat the whole purpose of relishing content instead of whining about how there is nothing to do on the forums? Or the all-to-common argument amongst the core hardcores that their guild is slow because they slack and can't play 12 hours a day? I know we all enjoy different things about a MMOG, but leveling up and waiting for your guild to catch-up isn't very enjoyable -- I've been there myself.

At least it took more than a few people to achieve this goal when World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade launched. Gullerbone, a mage leveled from 60 to 70 in a matter of 28 hours with the help of some friends using area effect spells to grind out the levels faster. I'm a firm believer that everyone should enjoy the game how they see fit as long as they aren't breaking the rules (dupes, gold-farming, etc.) but I still think leveling this fast is a bit over the top. I think at some point we all power-level and wish we would reach a certain level already. That's understandable, but as soon as an expansion launches? If you could, would you skip to the end after an expansion launched or do you prefer to take it in small chunks and get there when you get there?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's the rush? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Nov 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discussioneq2everquest-2everquest2grindlevel-cappower-levelingrise-of-kunarkthe-burning-crusadethe-daily-grindworld-of-warcraftMon, 26 Nov 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor Mill: EverQuest 2's Senior Producer quits, Scott Hartsman leaving SOE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/24/rumor-mill-scott-hartsman-eq2-senior-producer-leaving-soe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/24/rumor-mill-scott-hartsman-eq2-senior-producer-leaving-soe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/24/rumor-mill-scott-hartsman-eq2-senior-producer-leaving-soe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A surprising rumor regarding EQ2's Senior Producer, Scott Hartsman aka Gallenite, is spreading across various MMOG forums claiming that he has parted ways with SOE. What makes this rumor noteworthy and more than likely veritable is that it originates from the administrator who runs EQ2 Flames, one of the more popular EQ2 fan forums. According to Scott Hartsman's bio on his personal blog he has been with Sony Online Entertainment for over six years and his first SOE credit is EverQuest: Shadows of Luclin. If Scott Hartsman is leaving to pursue other interests we here at Massively wish him the best of luck, but I don't think he needs it!

If this rumor turns out to be true it would be a huge blow to the EverQuest 2 development team and the EverQuest 2 community. Scott Hartsman is a class act, and is one of the best in his field at what he does. Whoever steps in to try and fill his shoes will have a hell of a time as Hartsman has not only set the bar high when it comes to running the show, but his superb ability to manage community relationships and wax philosophic with the players. During his tenure as on EverQuest 2's, Senior Producer, Hartsman has established a remarkable reputation not only amongst his peers, but also among the more tight-knit MMOG forum goers, which by any means is no easy feat.

I'm a bit shocked, especially to see this coming so shortly after Rise of Kunark's launch, and various recent interviews conducted with Hartsman about the expansion, including our own with Michael Zenke regarding grouping concerns in Rise of Kunark. What do you guys think about all this? I wonder if Hartsman will go on to work on another MMOG. If the rumor turns out to be true is EverQuest 2 screwed or is this rumor unfounded, and shouldn't have been reported by Massively? Let us know in the comments.

MassivelyRumor Mill: EverQuest 2's Senior Producer quits, Scott Hartsman leaving SOE originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Nov 2007 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingeq2everquest-2everquest2mmog-industryrise-of-kunarkscott-hartsmansoesony-online-entertainmentSat, 24 Nov 2007 20:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise of Kunark dungeon xp raised]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/rise-of-kunark-dungeon-xp-raised/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/rise-of-kunark-dungeon-xp-raised/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/rise-of-kunark-dungeon-xp-raised/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

There's been a lot of back and forth in the EverQuest II community about the xp gain via grouping in Rise of Kunark dungeons. Fingers were pointed, and we gave Scott Hartsman (EQ2's Senior Producer) a chance to rebut. Said Mr. Hartsman, in our discussion piece from last week:

EverQuest II is not a game about sitting in one place and grinding. You find the activity that defines the core of your game, then you make sure it's the part you polish the most, then you make damn sure it's rewarding. That activity is questing.

Tipa's response to Mr. Hartsman's statement clarified the issue from a segment of the player population:

EQ2 was always about two things: Dungeon crawls and getting loot. Quests were just things you could do to make the effort more rewarding ... Most of the quests in my journal I never get around to doing, unless they result in an upgrade for my character. I don't think I'm alone in this.

Apparently, she's not. Today, the word on the official forums from Mr. Hartsman is that dungeon XP is going to be increased, at least through this holiday weekend. He is clear about the reason: bringing parity to quest xp gain for dungeon grouping.

We've been keeping an eye on both the objective, globally recorded experience data from the first week of Kunark being live, as well as the subjective feedback regarding Kunark experience grants, through the many styles that people play. Many of you have pointed out that the exp given from dungeonning feels too low. In the live environment, we agree that is the case. The data backs this up as well. In making the reality more aligned with the overall goal, Kunark dungeon experience gains have just been boosted on all of the live servers.

We'll keep up with this ongoing balance issue as the developers and players work this out.

MassivelyRise of Kunark dungeon xp raised originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Nov 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeonseq2eq2-rokeverquest-2everquest-iigroupinglevelingrise-of-kunarkrokscott-hartsmansoesony-online-entertainmentxpWed, 21 Nov 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wall o' thumbs: new galleries this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/wall-o-thumbs-new-galleries-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/wall-o-thumbs-new-galleries-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/wall-o-thumbs-new-galleries-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Submitted for your approval: here's a collation of all our new eye candy this week.

Galleries

Dofus Gallery

Inside the butchers shopButchers training shopPractising a craft skill interfaceThe inventory screenForest glade + monsters!

Exteel Gallery

First Impressions: Flyff


EverQuest: Secrets of Faydwer
Kerafym statue in CrystallosKerafym's emblem in CrystallosA room of pods in CrystallosA laser beam experiment in Meldrath's Majestic MansionDamage to the Fortress Mechanotus

EverQuest II: Rise of Kunark
Defender of KunarkBones of Iksar WarriorMetal golemTimorous Deep at SunriseErollisi Mantrap

EverQuest II: Sarnak starter guide Gallery
Chrykori Village riseCitizen Niba'OuzCiv-Parser Di'XinCollectableCollectable NPCs

MassivelyWall o' thumbs: new galleries this week originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Nov 2007 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browsercasualdofuseverquesteverquest-iiexpansionsexteelflyffgalleriesrise-of-kunarkscreenshotssecrets-of-faydwerwall-o-thumbsTue, 20 Nov 2007 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[And the first EQ2 player to reach level 80 is...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/and-the-first-eq2-player-to-reach-level-80-is/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/and-the-first-eq2-player-to-reach-level-80-is/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/and-the-first-eq2-player-to-reach-level-80-is/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Stratics reports that the first player to reach level 80 on EverQuest II's live servers is the Monk Taucher of the guild Second Dawn on the Najena server. The word is that Taucher reached level 80 at 7:37 AM EST on Thursday the 15th of November; that's approximately 36 hours after Rise of Kunark -- the expansion that raised the level cap from 70 to 80 -- went live.

Taucher won a $100 reward from the community for being the first to level 80. He wrote a couple of brief posts in the contest's stickied thread at the EQ2Flames forum. He said in his post announcing his accomplishment, "I'm sure I'll have a lot to say when I wake up at some point, but right now I've been playing for pretty much 39 hours straight and I just want to go to bed."

This is not the first time a power gamer has blown everyone away with a marathon play session to reach a new level cap. Back when The Burning Crusade expansion for World of Warcraft came out, a 24-year-old Frenchman progressed from level 60 to level 70 in just 28 hours with the help of his guild mates.

MassivelyAnd the first EQ2 player to reach level 80 is... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2everquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionlevel-80level-capmonknajenarise-of-kunarksoestraticstaucherMon, 19 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Scott Hartsman of EQ2 gets profiled]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/scott-hartsman-of-eq2-gets-profiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/scott-hartsman-of-eq2-gets-profiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/scott-hartsman-of-eq2-gets-profiled/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Now that EverQuest II's latest expansion Rise of Kunark has been released, you'd hope that Senior Producer and Creative Director Scott Hartsman would be able to take a bit of a break -- but you can be sure it won't be too long, because its obvious that he really digs his job. TenTonHammer has a two-page interview with Hartsman that isn't so much about EQ2 as it is about the man himself.

In the article, Hartsman discusses how he broke in to the industry -- his first industry job was with a text-based online RPG at the age of 15! -- his favorite games of the past and ones that influenced him, things that he does outside of work, and even some tips for anyone that would like to get involved in the gaming business. On this, he mentions that being competent with algebra comes in very handy, something that not everyone may realize.

Even if you've never heard of Scott Hartsman, its a worthwhile read to hear what things are like on the other side of your favorite pastime. The link below will take you through to TTH's full developer profile.

MassivelyScott Hartsman of EQ2 gets profiled originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creative-directordeveloper-profileeq2everquest-2hartsmaninterviewprofilerise-of-kunarkrokscott-hartsmansenior-producersoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 19 Nov 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EQ2's producer responds to expansion grouping concerns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/eq2s-producer-responds-to-expansion-grouping-concerns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/eq2s-producer-responds-to-expansion-grouping-concerns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/eq2s-producer-responds-to-expansion-grouping-concerns/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

One of the greatest things about Massively Multiplayer Games is that the dialogue about them isn't a one-way street. With most games, fans wait for the word from on high, and discussion about single-player games tends towards fighting over scraps. With MMOGs, the considered commentary of players make for interesting reading in and of itself. That's the case we find ourselves in today, just a few days after the release of Sony Online Entertainment's Rise of Kunark expansion. Mostly the buzz seems to be positive, but a pair of bloggers have given voice to players feeling a bit put out by the pack's core leveling mechanic: questing. Yesterday Tipa (of the West Karana blog) and Kendricke (currently writing at the Clockwork Gamer site) took issue with the fact that group grinding isn't as profitable as it has been in previous expansions.

Specifically they're raising this objection as it relates to the famed Karnor's Castle, a bastion of EverQuest Live lore and newly revised for SOE's new vision of Kunark. Tipa sums their issue up on her site: "Just doing quests and killing in a risk-free, outdoor zone, beats hunting in a semi-risky dungeon. How is that even possible. Dungeons are supposed to give you superior benefits for the trouble of grouping - better experience, better loot. Somehow that got lost ... When word of this gets around, KC will become a ghost town. People will do the Kylong Plains/Teren's Grasp quest lines, then move to the Fens and just skip Karnor's. SOE, it's not too early to consider tuning this zone. Grouping in KC should be more rewarding than questing outside."

Scott Hartsman, the senior producer of EverQuest 2, took a few minutes today to answer their concerns for us. Read on to see further discussion from the player's POV and Mr. Hartsman's response.

Continue reading EQ2's producer responds to expansion grouping concerns

MassivelyEQ2's producer responds to expansion grouping concerns originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Nov 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2eq2-rokeverquest-iieverqust-2featuredgrindinggroupinglevelingquestingrise-of-kunarkscott-hartsmansoesony-online-entertainmentFri, 16 Nov 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise of Kunark pets prove productive]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/rise-of-kunark-pets-prove-productive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/rise-of-kunark-pets-prove-productive/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/rise-of-kunark-pets-prove-productive/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lets face it, there are lots of pets in MMOs that serve as little more than trophies for players who have happened upon some lucky achievement or who were willing to dish out some extra cash to get the prize in the proverbial cereal box. Lassie, these pets are not. At first glance the Burynai Digger house pet in EQ2 Rise of Kunark appeared to be more of the same - just an interactive trinket for people who preordered the expansion. According to elquinjena at the Legion of Kithicor website, that assumption is quite misguided.

Evidently, you can feed your Burynai Digger various food items and he'll occasionally spit back collection items. From her description, there didn't seem to be much rhyme or reason to the goodies that came out of his mouth -- he just procured what he felt like. According to the official website, the little buggers go to bury the trash you give them and discover shinies within your home and bring them back to you. How nice of them! They're still ugly little buggers though, if you ask me.

MassivelyRise of Kunark pets prove productive originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Nov 2007 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burynai-diggerEQ2everquest-iiexpansionpetpetsrise-of-kunarkFri, 16 Nov 2007 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II's senior producer explains the Kunark Epics delay]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/everquest-iis-senior-producer-explains-the-epics-delay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/everquest-iis-senior-producer-explains-the-epics-delay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/everquest-iis-senior-producer-explains-the-epics-delay/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively's Rise of Kunark Beta Tour from early last week had a bevy of details on the just-released expansion. One of the hot-button items among the EverQuest 2 community, it seems, is the absence of the promised Epic weapons from Kunark's launch, a detail we first reported here on the site. TenTonHammer has followed up on player concerns in this area, speaking with EQ2's Senior Producer Scott Hartsman on the issue.

Hartsman reveals that, unfortunately, the Kunark Epics are yet another victim of the recent San Diego fires.

"What we were faced with was a bug count in which nothing had been touched in a week. When we are in our bug fix mode, the team is capable of fixing anywhere between 13 to 17 hundred bugs in a week, so losing a week is a big thing. At the end of the day it came down to well, we obviously need to focus on the overall launch of our expansion first. Epic weapons are something that yes, we've got a number of them in the bag, but the choice we had to make was, do we launch a game with 1500 bugs and epics that are 75% awesome and 25% less than awesome, or do we launch a game that's going to be as clean as we can make it and then push the epics out on an update? "

Folks looking forward to tackling the weapons need not worry, though. Hartsman states that the Epics update will likely be coming just after the holiday season ends. This will give the team time to give the important items the polish they need ... and likely will let designers have a few moments with their families as well.

MassivelyEverQuest II's senior producer explains the Kunark Epics delay originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epic-weaponsepicseq2eq2-rokeverquest-2everquest-iirise-of-kunarkrokscott-hartsmansoesony-online-entertainmentWed, 14 Nov 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Everquest I and II expansions launch today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/everquest-i-and-ii-expansions-launch-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/everquest-i-and-ii-expansions-launch-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/everquest-i-and-ii-expansions-launch-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

For those inhabiting swank digs under rocks, or those uninitiated in the ways of the Everquest, you may not realize that two major expansions launched today: EQI: Secrets of Faydwer and EQII: Rise of Kunark. We've been following both expansions extensively, so thought we'd round up some of the more notable features for those about to Everquest (we, of course, salute you):

Beta tours

Guides

Video

Galleries

Gallery: EverQuest: Secrets of Faydwer

Kerafym statue in CrystallosKerafym's emblem in CrystallosA room of pods in CrystallosA laser beam experiment in Meldrath's Majestic MansionDamage to the Fortress Mechanotus

Gallery: EverQuest II: Rise of Kunark

Defender of KunarkBones of Iksar WarriorMetal golemTimorous Deep at SunriseErollisi Mantrap

Gallery: EverQuest II: Sarnak starter guide Gallery

Chrykori Village riseCitizen Niba'OuzCiv-Parser Di'XinCollectableCollectable NPCs

MassivelyEverquest I and II expansions launch today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingEQEQ2EQIIhow-tojoystiqfeaturesrise-of-kunarksecrets-of-faydwerTue, 13 Nov 2007 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[EQ2 Sarnak dance movie]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eq2-sarnak-dance-movie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eq2-sarnak-dance-movie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eq2-sarnak-dance-movie/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With every new playable race comes the most important element of them all: the new dance. For the Sarnak introduced in today's EverQuest II: Rise of Kunark expansion, that dance is a little different than what we've seen before.

The Sarnak are a race of creatures magically bred from dragons. But the exact origins of their species is unknown, driving them on a quest to learn the truth about their people.

SoE has reflected their ancient struggle with identity by giving them a tribal themed dance. My beta tour guide felt that the dance was also something popular among the Rugby crowd. Can anyone verify that?

For the latest EQ2: RoK info, keep your browser on Massively today and the rest of the week.

MassivelyEQ2 Sarnak dance movie originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2featuredrise-of-kunarkrugby-dancesarnaksarnak-danceTue, 13 Nov 2007 15:05:00 EST<![CDATA[EQII site is cooler than it was 48 hours ago]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eqii-site-is-cooler-than-it-was-48-hours-ago/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eqii-site-is-cooler-than-it-was-48-hours-ago/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eqii-site-is-cooler-than-it-was-48-hours-ago/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The official community site of EverQuest II has been updated in preparation for the Rise of Kunark expansion. The update adds new guild roster features, new art for forum signatures, lots of little fixes and additions, and of course support for all the new Rise of Kunark stuff like post-70 player characters and the Iksar race. You can read all the details on the site's news page.

The update responds to a lot of user requests. It was due earlier but was pushed back so the expansion-related updates could be included in the same package. The EQII players website is an exemplary MMO community hub, and all this just makes it better. Check out the site and hang out on the forums during the agonizing wait until Rise of Kunark goes live today!

MassivelyEQII site is cooler than it was 48 hours ago originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2eq2-playerseq2playerseqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iiexpansionforumsrise-of-kunarksoestationupdateTue, 13 Nov 2007 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Sarnak starter quest guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/massively-sarnak-starter-quest-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/massively-sarnak-starter-quest-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/massively-sarnak-starter-quest-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Let's face it. At some point after EverQuest II receives its Rise of Kunark expansion, you'll be making a Sarnak. Sure, you may not stick with it, or even take it very far at all, but you'll want to at least see what they're like and check out their newbie area. With that in mind, we present to you this sneak peek at beginning life as a Sarnak, including a detailed walk-through of the quests, and the characters and monsters found in this first snippet of Kunark. Whether you want to use the guide to blast through the early quests, or simply check out some screenshots in our quest-guide gallery, click on through for more.

Gallery: EverQuest II: Sarnak starter guide Gallery

Chrykori Village riseCitizen Niba'OuzCiv-Parser Di'XinCollectableCollectable NPCs

Continue reading Massively Sarnak starter quest guide

MassivelyMassively Sarnak starter quest guide originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 12:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrykorieq2eqiieverquest-2featuredhaoaeranhow-tojoystiqfeaturesquest-guiderise-of-kunarkrokrok-betasarnakscreenshotssony-online-entertainmentstarter-guidewalkthroughTue, 13 Nov 2007 12:22:00 EST<![CDATA[EQ2 Sarnak fire breathing movie]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eq2-sarnak-fire-breathing-movie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eq2-sarnak-fire-breathing-movie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eq2-sarnak-fire-breathing-movie/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

One of the racial traits that all Sarnaks receive is the ability to breathe fire. Literally. The new race in EverQuest II: Rise of Kunark are magically created beings based on dragons after all.

While I was poking around in the Beta (for your benefit) I took a video of my level 80 Sarnak Bruiser using his new trait on an unsuspecting Drachnid in the Kylong Plains. As you can see, the effect is rather dramatic and the extra damage doesn't hurt either.

The ability is on a 30 minute timer so use it wisely. And if any of your group members gets lazy, you'll now have a simple way to light a fire under their ass.

Check back with us today as we have one more video coming that shows off the Sarnak's awesome new dance moves. And check out all our EQ2: RoK coverage.

MassivelyEQ2 Sarnak fire breathing movie originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 11:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2featuredkylong-plainsnew-race-sarnakracial-traitrise-of-kunarksarnak-fire-breathingsoesony-online-entertainmentTue, 13 Nov 2007 11:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Suddenly, it's as if millions of MMO gamers cried out... and were forced to go outside]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/suddenly-its-as-if-millions-of-mmo-gamers-cried-out-and-wer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/suddenly-its-as-if-millions-of-mmo-gamers-cried-out-and-wer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/suddenly-its-as-if-millions-of-mmo-gamers-cried-out-and-wer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Today, three major MMOs are dark: World of WarCraft, EverQuest, and EverQuest 2 for content patches or expansions -- WoW gets patch 2.3; EQ and EQ2 each have shiny new expansions. It's not often the big three are offline at the same time for new content, so this must either be a sign of the apocalypse or product managers imitating carny barkers by jumping up and down yelling, "Play my game, not that other game!" It is our sworn duty here at Massively to remind you there is this thing called the "outdoors" and we hear it's quite lovely this time of year. So, go check it out and get back to us on what it's like, will ya?

Of today's releases, I'm looking forward to the EQ2 expansion, Rise of Kunark the most. While the level 70-80 content is too high for me, I'm a total sucker for new starting areas. I've been wanting to roll a necro, so tomorrow I'll check out Timorus Deep with my still-got-the-new-toon-smell Sarnak. The WoW patch is a complete whiff for me since I failed in both getting my alt to level 20 and my main to level 70 -- the fall game review cycle can make for a hellacious schedule for freelancers. So no improved XP or Zul'Aman for me. It's been years since I've played EQ, and, you guessed it, my main is under the level cap so there's nothing there for me, either -- sense a pattern on non-level-capped chars?

How about you? How are you spending patch day? What's the over/under on the length of the downtime? Which game are you logging into first?

MassivelySuddenly, it's as if millions of MMO gamers cried out... and were forced to go outside originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>everquesteverquest-2expansionpatch-2.3patchesrise-of-kunarkTue, 13 Nov 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EQ2 Sarnak character creation video how-to]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eq2-sarnak-character-creation-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eq2-sarnak-character-creation-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/eq2-sarnak-character-creation-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Servers are down for the EverQuest II: Rise of Kunark expansion patch and you can't wait to make your new Sarnak. Now you don't have to wait. Almost.

Massively knows you dream of how your new toon is going to look so we are giving you a head start. This 8+ minute video shows all the options in creating a Sarnak at the character creation screen.

Horn length, horn angle, head horns, scale patterns, scale colors, nose, chin and jaw shape. You name it, we covered it. Watch it a few times and when the servers come back up, you'll already know what options you want and you'll be ready to play.

Keep checking in on Massively for the latest news on EQ2: RoK as well as two more videos spotlighting the unique characteristics of the Sarnak coming your way today.

MassivelyEQ2 Sarnak character creation video how-to originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 03:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-creation-screeneq2hornshow-tojoystiqfeaturesrise-of-kunarksarnakscalesvideoTue, 13 Nov 2007 03:58:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest 2: Rise of Kunark - mega information link overload]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/everquest-2-rise-of-kunark-mega-information-link-overload/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/everquest-2-rise-of-kunark-mega-information-link-overload/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/everquest-2-rise-of-kunark-mega-information-link-overload/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Over this past weekend the EverQuest 2: Rise of Kunark NDA was taken out back and shot to death with erasers, mere days before the expansion launches tomorrow. Unfortunately, I only had access for a little over a week (QQ) and haven't had much time to play. This means any in-depth coverage coming from my brain is nil until I patch my sheepish brain later with more played time, but I do have some first thoughts. My first thought: I really should have played more. My second thought: I feel like I owe our readers a bit more than that, so, I ventured out and tracked down information dumps, thoughts, opinions, and screenshots from various sources who really delved in the RoK beta. The consolidated roundup is after the jump. In no particular order and without further ado:

[Last Updated 11/12/07 10:30PM PST]

Continue reading EverQuest 2: Rise of Kunark - mega information link overload

MassivelyEverQuest 2: Rise of Kunark - mega information link overload originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Nov 2007 22:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2eq2-craftingeq2-expansioneq2-rokeq2-rok-betaeqiieverquest-2everquest-betafeaturedrise-of-kunarkrok-betascott-hartsmanMon, 12 Nov 2007 22:52:00 EST<![CDATA[EQ2 Rise of Kunark tradeskilling: armor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/eq2-rise-of-kunark-tradeskilling-armor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/eq2-rise-of-kunark-tradeskilling-armor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/eq2-rise-of-kunark-tradeskilling-armor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


We have one last link to share with you from EQ2 Traders Corner tonight. Previously, in their blitz on EQ2 Rise of Kunark tradeskill coverage, we featured their new harvested resources and furniture showcase pages. This final page has to do with pimping out your character's appearance (and undoubtedly stats, though we don't see that just yet) in the expansion, with a large gallery of the different kinds of crafted armor.

This gallery has front and back shots of males and females wearing what looks like every kind of new armor. As with the furniture catalogue, it contains items of both the common and rare variety. There is one set of chain armor that has been updated in-game and not yet on their page, but apart from that, you should be able to determine what your avatar will look like once you've been kitted out by your local crafter after RoK hits.

Have a browse of the armor shots, and stay tuned to Massively for more Rise of Kunark coverage both leading up to and after the anticipated release.

MassivelyEQ2 Rise of Kunark tradeskilling: armor originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Nov 2007 20:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armorcommoncraftingeq2eqiieverquest-2rarerise-of-kunarkrokrok-betat8tier-8tradeskillMon, 12 Nov 2007 20:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Massive Giveaways: EQ2 - Rise of Kunark, redux]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/eq-giveawy-04/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/eq-giveawy-04/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/12/eq-giveawy-04/#commentsFiled under: ,


Fear the mighty Sarnak, new race for the Everquest II: Rise of Kunark expansion. As mentioned previously, we managed to land some hands-on time with the beta for EQ2. Some of the things we noticed (other than some really nice customization options for your Sarnak -- we love the horns) are how the male Sarnak are smaller than the female Sarnak, and how well matched the speaking animations for this race are when paying attention to the vocal emotes/NPC dialogue. For those who haven't been in on the full scoop of what all this expansion entails, we have a fantastic EQ2: RoK beta walk-through that's just chock full of juicy details.

But for now, we need to focus on giving out these three last copies of the Rise of Kunark expansion! Yes, three lucky winners will be able to make their very own Sarnaks to engage in fierce battles like the one above. Being a rampaging dragonkin sound like your idea of fun? Then if you're 18+, a resident of the U.S., and are otherwise clear according to the official rules, leave a comment below before tomorrow at 8:15 PM Eastern, and you may wind up with a shiny new copy of Everquest II: Rise of Kunark. Raar!

MassivelyMassively's Massive Giveaways: EQ2 - Rise of Kunark, redux originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Nov 2007 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq-giveawayseq2everquest-2featuredmassive-giveawaysrise-of-kunarksoeMon, 12 Nov 2007 20:15:00 EST