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Design your own robots with upcoming MMO Panzer Pets

Brendan Drain — Sun, 06 May 2012 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Game mechanics, MMO industry, New titles, News items, Free-to-play, Browser, Mac, Post-Apocalyptic

If you've been desperately hoping for a Pokémon MMO all these years but have been disappointed by Nintendo's unwillingness to release one or let anyone else develop one, you might be interested in upcoming MMO Panzer Pets. Panzer Pets is set in a post-apocalyptic world in which robots have taken over, but robot builders have found a way to build their own pets to fight back. In Panzer Pets, rather than capture creatures, you'll hunt for robot parts and design your own customisable 3-D pet robots.

The game focuses on the exploration opportunities that a post-apocalyptic setting delivers, with a world filled with randomly generated zones, dungeons and towns to explore, and robot parts to collect. Players will be able to trade parts with each other, challenge other players to battles, form guilds, and embark on quests together. As it uses the Unity 3-D engine, the game will be released on iOS, Android, and both PC and Mac web browsers.

New studio Gamundo has been working on Panzer Pets for free so far but now needs support to work on the game full-time and complete it. If you're interested in exploring a post-apocalyptic world with a customised pet robot in tow, you can help Gamundo finish the game by pledging money to its Kickstarter campaign, which launched last night. The estimated date for completion of the game is October 2012, and the team needs to raise $85,000 to make it that far without giving a publisher or investor a controlling interest in the game.

Design your own robots with upcoming MMO Panzer Pets originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Massively Exclusive: City of Heroes previews the upcoming Mecha Armor

Eliot Lefebvre — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Galleries, Screenshots, City of Heroes, Previews, Free-to-play

Do you dig giant robots? Of course you do. The team behind City of Heroes apparently likes them as well, seeing as how the game's next major update, Issue 23, allows you to dress up like one. The newest Tier 9 VIP reward is the Mecha Armor costume set, and the fine people at Paragon Studios were kind enough to give us a chance to take a sneak peek at the costume set before it's available on the test server.

The gallery below contains an image of a male, female, and huge character in the new costume set, complete with wings, backpacks, and other armor reminiscent of any number of Gundam designs. Like other Tier 9 VIP rewards, the armor will only be unlockable for a limited time, so if you're feeling a desperate need to play with these costume parts -- and we can't blame you -- it's best save up your reward tokens now.

Gallery: City of Heroes Core Gallery

Massively Exclusive: City of Heroes previews the upcoming Mecha Armor originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SteelWar Online kicks off alpha testing

Eliot Lefebvre — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Sci-fi, New titles, News items, Free-to-play, Browser

Are there enough robots in your life? If your answer is "yes," you're most likely not concerned about the alpha testing of SteelWar Online. For those of us who instead welcome our new mechanical overlords, the kickoff of the alpha test is good news, as it means that the game is drawing ever closer to release. And seeing as it's a browser-based game available directly via Facebook, you'll have an easy time if you feel the urge to take part in said testing.

Not a big fan of testing free-to-play games? Well, developer PopPace is trying to sweeten the pot slightly. During the alpha test, players will be given the equivalent of $2000 to blow in the game's cash shop, unlocking every option at will. While that's only good for the alpha test, players will receive an extra stash of microtransaction currency once the game goes live, and an extra stipend will be granted to players who find and report bugs. It's just the thing to fill that robot-shaped void in your life.

[Source: PopPace press release]

SteelWar Online kicks off alpha testing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MechWarrior Online unveils the classic CN9-A Centurion BattleMech

Matt Daniel — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, Previews, News items, Free-to-play, MechWarrior Online

Giant robot fans everywhere are getting pumped up for Piranha Games' upcoming MechWarrior Online, but what's a MechWarrior game without lots of badass BattleMechs? Boring, that's what. Fortunately, however, there's plenty of giant robot lovin' to go around in MWO, and today the team is revealing the newest (though we use that term loosely) addition to the roster: the Centurion.

The CN9-A Centurion is a long-time favorite of anyone who has hung around in the MechWarrior universe for long enough, and it's easy enough to see why. Armed with weapons suitable for any range, the Centurion is a force to be reckoned with no matter where he is on the battlefield. Whether it's launching LRM-10 missiles across the battlefield or wrecking someone's day personally with its AC/10 autocannon and medium lasers, you can bet the Centurion will be making a triumphant return in MechWarrior Online.

For the full details on the newly revealed BattleMech, just jump on over to the game's official site.

[Thanks to nimzy for the tip!]

MechWarrior Online unveils the classic CN9-A Centurion BattleMech originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Richard Garriott running Portalarium with robots

Eliot Lefebvre — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: Culture, MMO industry, News items, Miscellaneous

Have you ever wished that instead of having to go to your job, you could just turn on the computer, log in to an avatar in the same manner as an MMO, and take care of everything that way? Perhaps to the surprise of no one, Richard Garriott has begun doing precisely that at his company, Portalarium. Rather than commuting between New York and the studio in Austin, Garriott has a small robotic avatar to allow him a face-to-video-monitor presence in Austin even when he's away.

The robot itself is a $15,000 Anybot QB from the eponymous company Anybots, Inc, which Garriott claims was originally purchased so that his mother could virtually attend his wedding in France. He also stresses that it's not a means of keeping tabs on employees, merely a way to bridge the gap between two very distant locations. And really, if you had just won millions of dollars in a lawsuit, wouldn't you be attending all events via robot?

Richard Garriott running Portalarium with robots originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Bounty Hounds Online trailer shows off man versus machine

Eliot Lefebvre — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, Trailers, Video, Previews, News items, Free-to-play

If you're not one of the lucky people who got in to our Bounty Hounds Online beta giveaway, you might be sitting around wishing for another dose of the game's visual style. It's certainly a rarity to see the sort of heavily mechanized futuristic setting that the game puts forth, after all. But you're in luck -- there's a new trailer available that shows off more of the gameplay as well as several of the game's mechanized companions.

Highlighting several mercenaries going toe-to-toe with an enormous walking tank, the trailer shows off some of the game's promised action and versatility, complete with transforming animal companions and a whole lot of firepower. Players will be taking part in the clean-up operation on a planet at the heart of an interstellar war, with other mercenaries acting as simultaneous allies and threats. Check the trailer just past the break for a fresh helping of science fiction action in all its screaming explosive glory.

Continue reading New Bounty Hounds Online trailer shows off man versus machine

New Bounty Hounds Online trailer shows off man versus machine originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New trailer for Transformers Universe showing off what you'd expect

Eliot Lefebvre — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, Trailers, Video, News items, Browser, Kids, Transformers Universe

There's a reason that the Transformers franchise has been running more or less continually for the past 27 years, and that's in no small part due to sheer flexibility. The fiction allows for stories anywhere between world-spanning science fiction to light-hearted antics, and the years of comics, shows, and movies have touched on many areas. But the newest trailer for Transformers Universe, the upcoming MMO based in the current continuity, shows off a feature that's far more basic.

While the details are still light on the actual gameplay of the upcoming game, what we do know is that it promises to be an action-oriented MMO aiming at a browser client, allowing players to play a representative of either side in the fiction's factional warfare. While it will be running concurrently with Transformers: Prime when it launches in 2012, there's no word on whether the show continuity will affect the game in any way. But you don't need to worry about any of that to enjoy the video just past the cut -- all you need to do is admire what's sure to be a central part of the game no matter how it plays.

Continue reading New trailer for Transformers Universe showing off what you'd expect

New trailer for Transformers Universe showing off what you'd expect originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Massively Exclusive: Battle of the Immortals reveals two new instances

Justin Olivetti — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Fantasy, Free-to-play, Battle of the Immortals, Dev Diaries

Sharpen your swords and fletch your arrows, because when the Titan update hits in Battle of the Immortals, it'll be time to dive into two of the fiercest dungeons known to mankind.

While we've looked at some of the lore behind the Titan update last week, now it's time to get into the nitty-gritty details of what this patch will bring. Perfect World has created two new maps for players to explore -- and exploit -- in their efforts to become big, rich and powerful: Black Dragon Lair and Giants Kingdom.

The update will also include the much-awaited Generation III pets, which can be bred with two Generation II pets of both genders. Generation IIIs feature faster attack speeds and higher damage output, so it's safe to say they'll be highly desired by players.

Battle of the Immortals' Titan update is scheduled for a July release, but in the meanwhile you can read up on the new dungeons in an exclusive dev blog after the jump!

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Battle of the Immortals reveals two new instances

Massively Exclusive: Battle of the Immortals reveals two new instances originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Champions Online shares new video of robot companion in hopes players will enjoy

Eliot Lefebvre — Wed, 11 May 2011 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Trailers, Video, Previews, News items, Free-to-play, Champions Online

Haven't you ever wanted your very own personal robot sidekick? A combination lackey and best friend, someone to hold your hand, listen to your problems, and help you violently assault several henchmen of a given criminal organization? If so, you might have some slight rage issues, but more importantly your needs will be catered to via the newest sidekick available in Champions Online. But if you need a little more convincing to let an uncanny valley sidekick into your heart (and wallet), the development team has put together a new trailer showing off the robot.

Like any good robot accomplice, R.O.D. (Reprogrammed Onslaught Drone) is programmed for a single function, that being unloading a great deal of firepower at anything you tell him to aim for. That includes lasers, chainguns, missiles, and a variety of other attacks for the discerning robot-owner. Champions Online players might want to take a look at the trailer, because it's really all about sharing and enjoying.

Champions Online shares new video of robot companion in hopes players will enjoy originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 May 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Global Agenda patch 1.4 goes live today

Jef Reahard — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, MMO industry, Patches, News items, Free-to-play, Global Agenda

It's patch day for Global Agenda, and Hi-Rez Studios is re-working several aspects of its massively multiplayer third-person shooter. Version 1.4 kicks off the new Free Agent branding, and players can now experience all 50 levels, as well as every bit of the game's content, for no charge.

The long-awaited Dome Defense Raid makes its first appearance in today's patch, and agents level 40 and above can team up to protect Dome City against a nasty invasion of Recursive Colony bots. Global Agenda's Demolition PvP mode is also undergoing a makeover. The game type has been re-dubbed Acquisition, and teams will now need to cross the map and pick up their robot from the opposing team's base, then return it to their own. Additionally, the robots have been upgraded with a new sprint ability and a heat ray weapon.

Finally, agents will notice that their skill points have been reset, as the game's skill trees have been tweaked to address balance issues and encourage specialization. Head to the official Global Agenda website to learn more and download the game.

Global Agenda patch 1.4 goes live today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Impressions: Spiral Knights

Beau Hindman — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Puzzle, New titles, PvE, Opinion, Free-to-play, Casual, Humor, First Impressions, Kids, Family

If you were one of the lucky few who grabbed a Spiral Knights beta key recently, then you will appreciate the joy I feel when talking about this game. It's simply a toy -- a ray-gun or a tin robot. It does what it is supposed to do and does it on a variety of machines without many issues. It is mechanized fun, simple and to the point, yet somehow also endearing and even sweet.

Perhaps the tiny robots and adorably destructive weaponry implemented by the folks at Three Rings help to bind the game to our hearts, because I found myself worrying that the little robot I was aiding would never find the materials he needed to escape from the dreadful gearworks and steam engines I was forced to investigate.

Confused? Well, go log in and try it out or click past the cut to hear my explanation!

Continue reading First Impressions: Spiral Knights

First Impressions: Spiral Knights originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Networking firm attempts 1000-player FPS battle

Jef Reahard — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 18:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, MMO industry, News items, MMOFPS, Miscellaneous

Huge multiplayer battles are the goal of a large percentage of the online games released every year. Whether they're making an MMO, an FPS, an RTS, or some weird and highly experimental hybrid, game developers love to stuff players onto their servers in a neverending competition for the biggest numbers.

Pikkotech, a networking technology firm, is aiming for what it says is the world record for the number of players in a single multiplayer battle: 1000. Pikkotekk consulted with CCP, the noted developer of EVE Online and a pioneer in the field of single-shard massively multiplayer technology, and has created a server backend that works in a manner similar to the tech used by overlapping cell phone towers.

The firm has thrown together a tanks vs. robots video demonstration complete with a humorous disclaimer. "We were so excited about our revolutionary network technology that we wanted a game that had it all [...] But our CEO said that Pikkotekk is a company that only does networking for games. So here you go: A crappy looking 1000-player shooter that you can play in the browser."

Networking firm attempts 1000-player FPS battle originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New zones and artifacts in latest Perpetuum devblog

Eliot Lefebvre — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, Patches, News items, Perpetuum

Perpetuum has been stomping its way along after its fairly recent launch, doing its level best to prove that everything really is better with giant robots. While the development team has been a bit quiet the past few weeks, the newest devblog entry explains some of the reasons behind the silence. A lot of the team's focus has been on adding new zones to the game for players to explore, with six new zones in development -- three of them remaining safe and three allowing for the unrepentant robot warfare that drives the core game.

The game's artifact scanning minigame is also nearing completion, and while the blog entry states outright that the mechanics will be fairly similar, it sounds like a good way to pass some time while there's nothing for your robot to shoot at. There's also official support for an emulation platform on Linux and OSX, which makes the game available to a wider range of potential players. Perpetuum players should take a look at the full entry for all the details.

[Thanks to Roy Ary for the tip!]

New zones and artifacts in latest Perpetuum devblog originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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All systems go: Perpetuum launching November 25th

Justin Olivetti — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, Video, Launches, Perpetuum

It's been five years in the making -- not to mention 18 months of beta testing -- but on November 25th, it all comes to a head. Perpetuum Online, which has been described as "EVE Online meets mechs," finally has a launch date.

Avatar Creations' project is a persistent world at war, in which players can build, pilot and destroy robots across the landscape. According to Perpetuum's manifesto, the dev team strived to make an MMO that focuses on a social experience that utilizes crafting, economy and territory control as tools to connect large amounts of players.

The download will be free, and Avatar Creations has announced that the pricing plan will be €8.95/$9.95 depending on the region. Interested players would do well to take the company up on the offer of early access, which costs the same but gives an additional week of play (early access players can start on November 18th) and four weeks of "extra extension points."

Hit the jump to see Perpetuum's launch trailer and figure out if this is the virtual world for you!

Continue reading All systems go: Perpetuum launching November 25th

All systems go: Perpetuum launching November 25th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rise and Shiny recap: Planet Calypso

Beau Hindman — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Real life, Sci-fi, Business models, Economy, Events, in-game, Previews, PvE, Free-to-play, Hands-on, Roleplaying, Virtual worlds, MMOFPS, Planet Calypso, Rise and Shiny

Planet Calypso is another one of those titles that has a perplexing reputation. Granted, in the past I have actually slammed the game -- and I mean slammed it -- but for different reasons. Normally -- and I have seen this over the last week as I told people about the game -- people bring up that they have "heard" that the game is nothing but a gambler's paradise, filled with thieves, liars, and the addicted.

Back then, I had an issue with the revamping of the game. I tried it on the day after release, bugs and all, and it was so unplayable that I couldn't move. Taking my own advice of looking back on games that we might have tossed aside, I can now say not only that the game has proved to be one of the most beautiful games I have played, but that the stereotype of the Planet Calypso player seems completely baseless. I looked, trust me, but all I found were nice people.

Of course, I did only play it over six days or so.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Planet Calypso

Rise and Shiny recap: Planet Calypso originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The robots are rising on Planet Calypso

Eliot Lefebvre — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, Entropia Universe, Events, in-game, News items, Free-to-play, Virtual worlds, Planet Calypso

It's not one of the largest games out there, so most people might not know what you're talking about if you mention Planet Calypso. Those who do might well only think of the highly publicized auctions and trades, in which players have spent large amounts of real-world money to purchase land and facilities (which bring in plenty of real-world money themselves, for the record). But beyond that there is an actual game world, complete with an ongoing storyline. As spotlighted in the newest game newsletter, that storyline is being turned up by a new event -- an ominous approach by robots.

The last major assault by the robots left the previous capital city a smoking ruin, and not coincidentally coincided with the game's graphical update to CryEngine 2. This time, the colonists have begun decoding messages sent by the robots, and defenses are gathering to ensure that a repeat of the last event doesn't take place -- even as the robots field a new technology known as "Hydra." Several helpful links for information may be found within the newsletter, which promises plenty of enjoyment for the players in Planet Calypso.

The robots are rising on Planet Calypso originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Share and enjoy in City of Heroes with the Praetorian Clockwork!

Eliot Lefebvre — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, City of Heroes, City of Villains, Expansions, Previews, News items, Humor

Greetings, fine consumer! You appear to be the sort of discerning individual highly anticipating the upcoming expansion for City of Heroes, much like several of your friends in [SUBJECT_HOMETOWN_HERE]. Going Rogue will be releasing on August 17th, available online or at [SUBJECT_RETAILER_HERE], but perhaps you'd like an opportunity to see some of the most useful automatic companions available before the fact? If so, today is your lucky day, because you have the unprecedented opportunity to take a look at the details behind the Clockwork, the latest and greatest release from Neuron Technologies Unlimited!

Featuring voice recognition, a shiny chrome finish, and over nine thousand home maintenance routines, the Clockwork offer an unparalleled level of safety and security for the entire family. These super-toys last all summer long, with a self-replenishing power source and ample maintenance facilities. And if one of your neighbors challenges the bright new future being assembled by Emperor Cole, you'll be happy to note that all Clockwork are equipped with the best possible threat neutralization capabilities available. Further information, including ordering details and a full description of how you and your robot can share and enjoy your lives, can be found at the official site for City of Heroes.

Share and enjoy in City of Heroes with the Praetorian Clockwork! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Progression and building in LEGO Universe

Kyle Horner — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: New titles, Previews, News items, LEGO Universe

Information on LEGO Universe has been somewhat thin as of late, but that's beginning to change. Over at 1up you'll find a meaty preview that covers quite a bit of ground, including basic MMO features like progression to LEGO specific stuff like building quests. The building mode is of course the keystone to this game, and the fact that a player cannot be harmed when entering the mode speaks volumes about its importance.

Aside from building mode, zones in LEGO Universe are likely to be distinctly memorable due to the licenses' ability to have pirate, ninja, robot or even Star Wars themed planets -- assuming they're capable of using any of their real world toy lines within the game. And as for combat? If you've played any of the console LEGO games, then you'll know what to expect, which is essentially action-based combat. There's a lot more detail in the actual preview, so check it out if building with bricks is how you get your kicks.

Progression and building in LEGO Universe originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Champions Online goes big with ten new screenshots

Kyle Horner — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Screenshots, New titles, News items, Champions Online

Gun-fu, robots with top hats and flame-embroidered bugs wielding guns are merely some of the descriptions for the ten new screens Cryptic has released for Champions Online. We know that a little while back we asked Cryptic to experiment more with screenshots and even though these are still action-focused, many of them are pretty awesome.

We're having a hard time deciding on our favorite. While the image above is certainly awesome due to its legendary high levels of robot-wearing-top-hat, the guy upside down in mid-air wielding two guns is exceptionally impressive in its own right. But, you've also got a guy with flaming arms kicking a humongous power armor-clad guy in the face.

Ah, who are we kidding? It's impossible to pick a favorite this time around -- at least for us. Maybe you'll have an easier time of it. You can find all ten images in the gallery below.

Gallery: Champions Online Main Gallery

Champions Online goes big with ten new screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Massively giveaway: Titan Online beta keys and special items

Shawn Schuster — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 07:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Contests, Culture, Events, real-world, Events, in-game, New titles, Free-to-play, Massively Meta

If you haven't heard the news, Titan Online has just entered their beta stage, and we're here to help you get in! That's right, Massively has yet another beta key giveaway, and this time it's for EYA Interactive's Titan Online, a free-to-play robotic MMO that we've previewed in the past.

If you'd be interested in participating in this beta and learning a bit more about the game, simply leave a comment to this post telling us why. Unlike previous beta key giveaways where we chose winners at random from the pool of comments, this one offers beta keys to every person who leaves a comment from now until Tuesday, April 28th at 7am EST, when eligibility will close. That's right, it's a first-come first-serve giveaway this time and we have enough for everyone (up to 1,000). Tell your friends, but remember, only one entry per person. Winners will be notified and provided with their beta keys throughout the week, after the giveaway closes.

In addition to providing these keys as an entry into the beta, they also generate special random items for your character. Keep reading below to find out more detailed information on how these beta keys will work.

[Edit: Eligibility is now closed. Expect your keys soon if you made a comment within the eligibility period!]

Continue reading Massively giveaway: Titan Online beta keys and special items

Massively giveaway: Titan Online beta keys and special items originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Apr 2009 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Martial arts and robots MMO Titan Online goes open beta this month

James Egan — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, New titles, Free-to-play

Korean MMO developer EYA Interactive has announced that their game Titan Online will enter open beta for its international version on April 28th. Massively had a look at Titan Online at GDC 2009, a game that EYA Interactive explains as "an epic title based on traditional Asian culture... a fusion MMORPG that boasts a unique combination of martial arts and robots that takes place in a spectacular fantasy world."

Gamers interested in getting in on the open beta can sign up at the Titan Global Site. EYA Interactive has also stated they will allow players to keep their existing open beta characters once the game goes live, with no account wipes from open beta onwards.

[Via Worlds in Motion]

Gallery: GDC09: Titan Online

Martial arts and robots MMO Titan Online goes open beta this month originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LEGO Universe character creation a soulful experience

Kyle Horner — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: New titles, Previews, News items, LEGO Universe

If there's one thing that LEGO Universe has going for it over any other MMO on the market or coming anytime soon, it's creativity. When your game is based on a franchise that's seen countless boys, girls and men and women alike sitting on the floor snapping together little plastic bricks to make well, anything, you've got a powerful place to design a game on.

And as you would expect, Wired's latest preview of the game shows of plenty of soul and creativity. Our favorite quote from the whole preview is easily this, "Mini-figs are endowed with a creative spark, a "soul" that will never die. They're also fairly exuberant: They'll start mashing the 'randomize' button on their own if you take too long to begin the customization process." We certainly hope that feature stays with the game until release, and that many more like it are scattered throughout the game.

All that being said, LEGO Universe is still going to have all the MMO trappings such as story, conflict and combat. And that's just fine with us considering it'll let millions of people across the globe live our their LEGO ninjas versus pirates versus robots fantasies.

Gallery: LEGO Universe Main Gallery

LEGO Universe character creation a soulful experience originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Robotic necromancer chest beams in new Champions Online screens

Kyle Horner — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Screenshots, New titles, News items, Champions Online

More robots are always a good thing, as everyone knows you can never have too many robots. Well, maybe a man named John Conner would disagree -- but we digress. Evil or no, there have been a lot of robotic things in the latest slew of Champions Online screens and we highly approve.

Thankfully, if you were hoping for more than robot (but who would!?) then you'll be happy to see some evil sorcerer goings on as well. Plus, we're pretty sure we saw some sweet, sweet chest beam action in this other screen. Robot, necromancers and chest beams? This week is a good week to be a Champions Online fan, surely.

Gallery: Champions Online Main Gallery

Robotic necromancer chest beams in new Champions Online screens originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Champions Online's healthy obsession with giant monsters, concept art

Kyle Horner — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Screenshots, New titles, News items, Champions Online

New screens and a comic art page have been released for Champions Online. The comic page gives a nice quick non-textual narrative on the fall of Lemuria, while the two new screens are full of robotic love.

When Cryptic isn't designing giant flaming gorillas into their game, we guess they're designing giant flaming... robots? Well, aside from the slightly worrisome obsession with fire, they have our complete support in this noble venture. As a giant-things addendum, the intricate sense of scale Champions Online seems capable of is a highly promising feature of the newew Cryptic tech. Although when considering the developer's other upcoming MMO, it really does make a lot of sense.

We've added the new images to our gallery, so feel free to take a peek at what's shaping up to be a visually arresting superhero MMO.

Gallery: Champions Online Main Gallery

Champions Online's healthy obsession with giant monsters, concept art originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Digital Continuum: My only problem with Free Realms

Kyle Horner — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Opinion, The Digital Continuum, Humor, Free Realms

I love Free Realms, so don't get me wrong when I say I've finally found a problem with it. What's that problem, you (hypothetically) ask? It's full of regular people and faeries, and what manly guy wants that?

No, sir, not me. There's certainly nothing wrong with a man who prefers to flutter about on dainty wings, or a man who just wants to be a 'Regular Joe' -- but what of the rest who just want to express their inner macho man? I think we need some representation!

That's why I've done all the creative footwork for Sony Online Entertainment and thought up a bunch of great concepts for manly races to add into Free Realms. That way, when hairy manly men log into the game after a hard day of sweating and lifting heavy things, they'll feel right at home.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: My only problem with Free Realms

The Digital Continuum: My only problem with Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A tale of geek purgatory

Kyle Horner — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Culture, News items, Humor

What's it like being stuck in the Japanese equivalence of a Korean cybercafe? Apparently, it's like hell, or at least it was for one gamer who wrote an article on Eurogamer discussing his several-hours within just such a place. We began reading the article with a twinge of inner pain as the place is described in such a way that would make anyone feel claustrophobic. Not very far into it though, you'll learn about some of the oddities of Japanese MMO players and their tendancy to be really, well, obsessive compulsive.

We're not gonna lie, the typical Japanese MMO game and player scares the living daylights out of us -- mostly because they seem like machines. And we all know what happens when machines start posing as humans, right? The entire world is either bombed, or the human race is enslaved and sent back into time repeatedly until a paradox destorys time itself. Bad stuff.

A tale of geek purgatory originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Behind the scenes video peeks at Lego Universe

Kyle Horner — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: New titles, News items, LEGO Universe

Here's something interesting. It's a LEGO Universe behind the scenes look video (mouthful!) in which we get to see some sneak peek stuff concerning the upcoming title that lets players build their own world, which is likely full of genitals. Oh, we also get to gawk at a really cool building full of more LEGO than half of America sees in a few years. We really aren't sure how anyone at NetDevil or LEGO gets anything done with all those blocks just begging to be put together. We'd be halfway done creating our LEGO-dition of Han Solo frozen in Carbonite after our first day or two.

It didn't help our jaw-to-floor ratio when the video also informed that within LEGO Universe, we can expect to experience pirates, ninjas and robots in LEGO form. It's a nerd trifecta +1! We're not sure whether we want this MMO to succeed or fail. Success means the loss of our entire lives for an undisclosed amount of time and failure -- something we never really wish upon a developer -- means keeping our families, friends and jobs. You can check out the video for yourself below below the cut.

Continue reading Behind the scenes video peeks at Lego Universe

Behind the scenes video peeks at Lego Universe originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Exteel's top ranking players and clans now viewable online

Matt Warner — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, PvP, News items, Exteel, Free-to-play

You guys sure do talk a lot of crap in-game. Let's see if those bragging rights really do belong to your clan. Now everyone really knows who the heck the top bots in Exteel are with the latest ranking feature on the Exteel website is live which displays player and clan ranks. There is no extra software to install, no manual profiles to keep up to date, all you have to do is log on and smash each other into smithereens. You can also search for clans and pilots too see where they stand, there's actually some jerk out there named Legolas. You know what to do if you see that player roaming in-game. Both ranking lists will update every 24 hours, early in the morning and the ranking system is currently in-beta so players can expect more features later down the road.

Be sure to check out our Exteel coverage, or jump right into the game by downloading the Exteel client.

Exteel's top ranking players and clans now viewable online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jae Hwan Kim on Exteel

Matt Warner — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, PvP, News items, Exteel, Free-to-play

Exteel is already six months into launch, and it stays kind of quiet not often talked about in MMOG circles. If you haven't heard about this one it's a free-to-play MMOG where players can take up giant robots and smash each other into bits like retro-rats. Several Massively readers even gave it the thumbs up in our launch post. As for recent news we covered the Trooper recently, and the new Last Stand battle mode that interjects a PvE element into the game. The latest information comes from Jae Hwan Kim, Exteel US Producer, in this interview with WarCry.

A genuine concern exists regarding Exteel's well being and sustainability because the game is an Eastern esque MMOG supported by micro transactions. There is a lot more room for failure in the Western market for this type of MMOG. According to Kim, Exteel is doing great and broke a concurrency record last week which is always good news for any MMOG. Also in the interview Kim talks about a few new features coming soon such as the new Clan battle mode, NCcoin versus in-game credits, along with his quick thoughts on game balance. Be sure to check out the official Exteel website where you can download the relatively small client.

Jae Hwan Kim on Exteel originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A look at Exteel's Trooper Mechanaught

Shawn Schuster — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, Game mechanics, PvP, Exteel, Free-to-play, Education

In previous developer letters from NCsoft, we learned about some of the entry-level Mechanaughts available in Exteel, their free-to-play robotic wargame MMO. In the most recent letter, we learn much more about the advanced Mechanaught known as the Trooper. This bipedal robot is the successor to the Frontliner and can absorb more damage, use energy more efficiently, regenerate energy faster, is much more responsive, and is a lot more accurate.

Also in this letter we get some detailed information on the Last Stand battle mode. This is an extremely useful mode where players can battle against scores of AI opponents and hone their skills, winning matches and accumulating hard-earned money for PvP battles. Plus, Last Stand matches can be played with a fewer group of players without the concern for finding enough people for balanced teams. All you need is some friends and that's it!

A look at Exteel's Trooper Mechanaught originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Welcome to S-zzz-nake Gulch

Kyle Horner — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EST

Filed under: New titles, News items, Champions Online

Cryptic has revealed a third area within the Champions Online world and it's a pretty dang interestin' one ta boot. Snake Gulch wouldn't be any different from other water-deprived, western-theme amustment parks if it weren't for the fact that it's populated entirely by robots. Snake Gulch is full of robot cowboys, it's true.

Oh and it's also right next to a maximum security supervillain prison, too. We're sure that has nothing to do with the fact that nobody lives in -- or near, so far as we can tell -- Snake Gulch, though. At least nobody but robots. (Just so we're clear: robots are people too) The preview is given entirely in the first person by Belle Steele and after listening to the audio clip provided by Cryptic we're pretty sure she's a robot, too. While you looking at the preview don't forget to check out the very cool concept art or you'll miss out on a sweet robot-horse.

Welcome to S-zzz-nake Gulch originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Get your stealth on with Global Agenda

Akela Talamasca — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: At a glance, Sci-fi, Video, Game mechanics, New titles, PvP, Spy

Or, maybe not. Global Agenda is an upcoming title by Hi-Rez Studios that calls itself 'spy-fi'; puzzle that one out, go ahead, we'll wait. Purportedly espousing a game system of tactical espionage, the gameplay video available seems more like Halo than Splinter Cell. Not that there's anything wrong with that.

Using the Unreal Engine 3, everything looks nice and moves smoothly. Other features of the game include racing for advanced technology before other players receive it; capturing and holding strategic locations; and special tech like stealth suits, holographic disguises, and remote control robots. This shows promise, and we'll keep our ear to the ground -- or at least, our sonic wavelength remote analyzer.

Get your stealth on with Global Agenda originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 15 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Linden Lab wants to buy new default avatars from you

Akela Talamasca — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: At a glance, Real life, Culture, Crafting, News items, Second Life, Free-to-play, Roleplaying

Well, maybe not you, exactly, but an undetermined number of content creators have received a message from Jesse Linden, stating that Linden Lab is interested in updating their current line of default avatars ' ... to better reflect the rich and diverse content available inside Second Life.' While this is a great idea, it appears that the receivers of this message are to compete for the contract, which will be paid in American dollars, rather than L$.

One wonders how inclusive LL is willing to be, given exactly how diverse content tends to be in SL. Will new users be able to choose Gorean avatars? Robots? Children?

[Via Vint Falken's blog]

Linden Lab wants to buy new default avatars from you originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AFS mechs' new animations show their mettle

Chris Chester — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, Video, Patches, Tabula Rasa

As is usually the case, there were a lot of things that we wanted the Destination Games team to put into Tabula Rasa's patch 1.5 that we don't see in the build on the PTS. The opacity of the development process usually has that effect. But one of the nice benefits of our ignorance is that we are often quite pleasantly surprised by the unexpected things that we find every time a new build shows up on our a desktop. One of the things that eluded as when the patch notes were posted yesterday, but which delighted us when shown in motion is the new attacks and animations for the mechs that patrol the heavier AFS bases.

One player who goes by the name of Flashburn on the Planet TR forums was courteous enough to record these new animations for our viewing pleasure. Notice the way the mech raps on his head to unjam the rockets. It's subtle, but worthy of a chuckle. And who can't be at least slightly awed by that new jumping attack? Are these new animations in some a way preview for what's ahead with the long-promised personal armored units? We can only speculate at this point, but we're suddenly excited about the prospect all over again. We'll have more on the new build as we explore it.

AFS mechs' new animations show their mettle originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ice Age: the MMO?

Akela Talamasca — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: At a glance, Game mechanics, New titles, News items, Opinion, Humor

Right off the top of my head, I can think of at least 5 other CGI-based kids' movies that would make better foundations for an MMO. But that isn't stopping Gravity, the makers of Ragnarok Online, from being excited about landing a 7-year contract to develop a game based on 20th Century Fox's Ice Age franchise.

I'll leave it to you guys to think of ways in which this might be a good idea, but let me offer up my 5 alternates, in no particular order:

Robots -- whether or not you liked the movie, just imagine a world where your entire body is replaceable and upgradeable. Not to mention getting around the resurrection issue; just rebuild yourself!

A Bug's Life -- Think of the faction possibilities! Endless warfare between your mound and other ants who just don't smell right! Also, boss battles are easy to create: any insects bigger than you make formidable enemies.

Finding Nemo -- of course, the obvious disadvantage right up front: there will be at least one mission where you have to protect a baby fish as it makes its way somewhere. The amazing color palette, the limitless variation in undersea fauna, and the depth (no pun intended) of the environments would do nicely to offset that.

The Incredibles -- It's like City of Heroes, but with that elusive, family-friendly Disney touch!

Shrek -- Choose from a huge pool of character types, from Gingerbread Man, to ogre, to Wolf-in-Sheep's-Clothing. Complete each fairy-tale-based quest the way YOU would have done it. Build up your power by enticing characters from all over to live in your kingdom.

See? Easy! Good luck, Gravity. I'm actually eager to see how this will work.

[Via WarCry]

Ice Age: the MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jan 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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