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[EVE Evolved: The Battle for Caldari Prime]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/eve-evolved-the-battle-for-caldari-prime/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/eve-evolved-the-battle-for-caldari-prime/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/eve-evolved-the-battle-for-caldari-prime/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved The Battle for Caldari Prime
The empires of EVE Online have long and bloody histories that, until now, have been played out largely through fictional chronicles and in-character news posts. This week saw conflict erupt in-game between two NPC empires in the Battle for Caldari Prime live event. The neutral CONCORD faction has managed to maintain order between the four main empires of New Eden for decades, but that doesn't stop the Gallente and Caldari factions occasionally violating the peace.

The Caldari were originally part of the Gallente Federation but gained independence in a war lasting almost a hundred years. Following an attack on a Gallente city, a right-wing faction in the Gallente government seized power and ordered the bombing of the Caldari homeworld. Millions of Caldari citizens were evacuated from the homeworld, a planet that has been under dispute ever since. Caldari Prime resides in the Luminaire system and is officially inside Gallente territory, but recent events have seen the tables turn.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at the story behind the recent Battle for Caldari Prime, accusations that the event was staged and scripted, and what the future may hold for live events in EVE.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: The Battle for Caldari Prime

MassivelyEVE Evolved: The Battle for Caldari Prime originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bottle-lightningcaldaricaldari-primeccpccp-gamesconsoledustdust-514eveeve-evolvedeve-onlineeventeventsevents-in-gamefakefakedfeaturedfpsgallenteground-combathistoryleviathanlive-eventlive-eventslivestreamloreluminaireMercenariesmmofpsnpcnuke-them-from-orbitopinionplaystationplaystation-3ps3pvpriggedrole-playrole-playingRolePlayingrpsandboxsci-fishiigerushooterstagedstorystorylinestreamtitanvideowarSun, 24 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/why-i-play-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/why-i-play-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/why-i-play-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Why I Play The Secret World
I'll be the first to admit that I've been one of The Secret World's biggest fanboys ever since Funcom first announced its horror-flavored entry to the MMO space. I spent many a conversation extolling the game's many virtues to my gaming friends. "It's like real life if the universe were written by horror authors," I enthused, rambling on and on about the innovative investigation missions, the unique skill wheel progression system, the fresh modern-day setting, and so on and so forth. Then finally the fateful day came that TSW went live, and I loved it... for a while. But for some reason, it just didn't click, and so TSW sat unloved, guilt-inducingly staring at me from my desktop.

Last week, I finally gave into the guilt and hopped back into the game. I had kept my subscription running, as I knew that even if I wasn't actively playing, I still wanted to support Funcom's endeavors with what I felt was a remarkably refreshing entry into the stagnant MMO marketplace. Last I left my Illuminati agent Rouage, he had hit something of a brick wall in Blue Mountain thanks to a very short-sighted and subpar character build. I figured I'd probably be replaying Kingsmouth and/or Savage Coast just to get the AP to rectify my build anyway, so I scrapped him and started from the beginning. This time, it clicked. So here I am to tell you why it clicked, and of course, why I play The Secret World.

Continue reading Why I Play: The Secret World

MassivelyWhy I Play: The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>editorialfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhorrorinvestigation-missioninvestigation-missionsloremassively-metametanostalgiaop-edopinionrole-playrole-playingroleplayingrpsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskill-wheelstorythe-secret-worldtswwhy-i-playThu, 08 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: The Repopulation demonstrates world-building elements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/gdc-2012-the-repopulation-demonstrates-world-building-elements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/gdc-2012-the-repopulation-demonstrates-world-building-elements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/10/gdc-2012-the-repopulation-demonstrates-world-building-elements/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

The Repopulation screnshot
GDC literally has a little of everything, from indie developers to major studios, from free-to-play games to shooters to arena battles to retro to family... there really is something for everyone. As a massive fan of sandboxes myself, I was pleased to get to spend so much time with Above and Beyond Technologies' lead dev and co-owner Josh Halls and artist Kevin Grove as they demonstrated some of the features in their upcoming title, The Repopulation. (And I would have even spent longer if I could have!)

While I had a monopoly on the team's attention, I had the chance to see some of the customization available to characters, both in appearance and gear, as well as get the lowdown on the world building element. We actually walked through the building of a nation, a feature that will make many a sandbox fan giddy! Although Josh was quick to point out that only a few items were available at this point in development, there was certainly enough to get a feel for the system. And I am looking forward to it!

Continue reading GDC 2012: The Repopulation demonstrates world-building elements

MassivelyGDC 2012: The Repopulation demonstrates world-building elements originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiescharacter-customizationcitiescitycity-buildingcity-building gameconconferenceconventioncraftingcustomizationdemofeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012guildsinterviewinterviewsJosh-HallsJoshua-HallsKevin-Grovenationsplayer-run-economypreviewpreviewsrepopulationrole-playsandboxsandbox-gamesci-fistar-wars-galaxiesswgthe-repopulationSat, 10 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/wings-over-atreia-ode-to-3-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia header
*cue pitch pipe*

Twinkle, twinkle, little patch,
How I wonder where you're at?
In the East they play with ease,
In the West you're just a tease!
Twinkle, twinkle, three point oh,
Hurry please I want you so!

I've tried to be patient. I really have. I even avoided any wayward glances at Aion's Korean patch notes (translated, of course) for 3.0. That way, I could contain my excitement a little better. I mean, we already know I am dying for housing, and I also know mounts are involved. But there is always so much more, and I was trying to make the wait more bearable. I stood firm in my resolve.

Then I broke down. I peeked. And oh how the many-tendriled beast of anticipation took hold of me once again! Of course there is always the requisite "fixed this bug" and "changed that appearance" filler, but when mining deeper, you also find some definite valuable nuggets. Aion's next patch has some "how cool," some "oh wow, that's really unexpected," and some "about time!" thrown in as well. From new zones to new instances to new features, there is plenty coming our way. Don't want to tax your scroll wheel and sift through the entire patch notes yourself? Wings Over Atreia delves in to uncover some of the most tantalizing treasures for you.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Ode to 3.0 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.0-patchaion-3.0aion-ascensionAturam-Sky-Fortressbeshbeshmundir-templeDorgal-Manordungeondungeon-crawldungeon-crawlingdungeonsexpansionfeaturedincreased-level-capLandis-Forestlevel-caplevel-cap-increasenew-contentnew-landsnew-zonespatch-3.0patchesRentus-Baserole-playrole-playingroleplayroleplayerroleplayersSand-Lords-LairSarpanskill-changesSRSteel-RakeTahmesTiamarantaWings-Over-AtreiaMon, 20 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: What is this RP-PvP anyway?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/hyperspace-beacon-what-is-this-rp-pvp-anyway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/hyperspace-beacon-what-is-this-rp-pvp-anyway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/15/hyperspace-beacon-what-is-this-rp-pvp-anyway/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: What is this RP-PVP anyway?
At E3, Principal Lead Writer Daniel Erickson expressed that he wanted a roleplay player-vs.-player server for Star Wars: The Old Republic. Granted, BioWare's live team originally intended to not launch with any type of open-world PvP roleplay server. Community Coordinator David Bass confirmed this when he explained that the Guild HQ program will not support RP-PvP servers and that those guilds wishing to roll on those types of servers will have to do it the old fashioned way: in game. According to the Daedalus Project, a study on the habits of MMO players, only 7% of all players actually roll a character on an RP-PvP server. However, when you keep in mind that SWTOR has the largest preorder sales of any PC game as of right now (about 802,000, not including digital and European sales), 7% ends up being a significant number. At least, there are enough people interested in RP-PvP to fill a server.

I understand that many people are turned off by the idea of mixing roleplay with PvP. I completely understand that. When the term RP hits people, images of Goldshire and naked Night Elves come to mind immediately. In truth, however, roleplay is really just telling a story through an interactive medium, in this case an MMO. For instance, if in the course of playing SWTOR you find yourself asking, "What would my character do in this situation?", then you have just brushed up against roleplay. In RP-PvP, players enjoy a very similar experience.

Today, let's talk about mixing story and PvP. Players have found diverse ways to integrate the two. Beyond the break, I have examples of how you may find ways to do it yourself, even if hardcore roleplay isn't your thing.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: What is this RP-PvP anyway?

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: What is this RP-PvP anyway? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWaredaniel-ericksondavid-bassEAElectronic-Artsfeaturedguild-vs-guildGuild-warLucasArtsopen-world-pvpplayer-versus-playerplayer-vs-playerPvProle-playroleplayRolePlayingRPRP-PVPserver-typesStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorwarzonesTue, 15 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: EQII's Festival of Discord]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/some-assembly-required-eqiis-festival-of-discord/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/some-assembly-required-eqiis-festival-of-discord/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/some-assembly-required-eqiis-festival-of-discord/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
Over the last few months, Some Assembly Required has covered features within games (such as quest-building tools, music, and housing) as well as overviews of full games themselves, not to mention some existential ranting on the life and times of the sandbox genre. This week, we focus on another aspect: player events.

Most player-created events range from RP tavern nights to full-blown tests of skill to races and scavenger hunts. These events are smaller affairs involving either a group of close friends, a guild, or perhaps even a mixture of a few guilds. However, there are occasions when events can grow larger... much larger. Such is the case with EverQuest II's Festival of Discord. Not only is this a server-wide festival designed and hosted by players, but it is fully supported by Sony Online Entertainment. And let me tell you, SOE has pulled out all the stops!

Want to see what this festival is all about or (better yet) make some of these events on EQII's Antonia Bayle server in person? Grab your cloak and join me past the break for a rundown of the festival, its history, and even events yet to come!

Gallery: EQII's Festival of Discord

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: EQII's Festival of Discord

MassivelySome Assembly Required: EQII's Festival of Discord originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq-2eq-iieventever-quest-2ever-quest-iieverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedlive-eventlive-eventsplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentrole-playRolePlayersRolePlayingSandboxSARsoe-eq-2soe-eq-iisome-assembly-requiredsony-eq-2sony-eq-iiFri, 11 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: What's in a name?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/alter-ego-whats-in-a-name/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/alter-ego-whats-in-a-name/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/alter-ego-whats-in-a-name/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

(AP Photo/DC Comics, Victor Ha)
While it is incredibly tempting to go off on a tear about the major decision announced this week to reboot the entire DC Comics universe, starting 52 new comics at issue #1 and essentially retconning every hero and villain we've known to date, this week's column isn't about that. After all, this isn't a comics site, and we've already heard from the DC Universe Online developers that the continuity in the game is separate from that of the overall DC Universe. (Considering how much we heard that noted in the recent chats, we wonder whether Sony Online Entertainment didn't know this major shake-up was on the way.) As such, I suspect we will see the game's storyline remain essentially intact, at least until the point at which we finally take down Brainiac once and for all. After that, it's anyone's guess. Depending on how the reboot works, it might well shake up the game's direction if the new comics are doing well with readers.

No, instead our superpowered game is getting its own different version of a restart in the promised upcoming MegaServer merges. While before we had multiple servers, each side will now have two -- one PvP and PvE for both PC and PS3 players -- giving us a total of four. Over this mad-scientist server-mashup, the issue of collisions looms. This week, we also found out that the merges will not only affect player names but league names as well, ensuring that there is plenty of confusion and concern on the part of the playerbase.

Will MegaServers be the bane or balm of DC Universe Online's population issues? What precisely are the facts and fallacies? Whom will this affect? Join me behind the break as I take a look at the overall situation!

Continue reading Alter-Ego: What's in a name?

MassivelyAlter-Ego: What's in a name? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alter-egocharacter-conceptscharacter-creationcharacter-namescharactersdc-comicsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedleague-namesleaguesmega-serversmegaserversname-collisionnamingopinionplayer-namesrole-playRPsoesony-online-entertainmentSat, 04 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: RP-PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/wasteland-diaries-rp-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/wasteland-diaries-rp-pvp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/wasteland-diaries-rp-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

In Fallen Earth, I spend most of my time PvPing. Well, actually, I probably spend most of my time waiting or preparing to PvP. I engage in PvE content out of necessity. In order to be effective in PvP, one needs levels and chips and gear. If this stuff could be earned through PvP alone, then that's all I would ever do. The situation has gotten better with the FCP rewards and XP for PvP, but it still isn't really enough. The other prominent playstyle in Fallen Earth, one I usually shy away from, is roleplaying. Some people will never do it, and some people are always in character. Most of us fall somewhere in between. This week I dipped my toe into the RP field.

I would normally never decide to attend a roleplaying event, but lately I've been trying to broaden my horizons. Knowing there was a possibility of some PvP action solidified my decision to head down to New Flagstaff for Rowdy's Bunker of Blues. This is an event held every Wednesday night at the bunker bar by the pond in the center of the city. There was a live DJ and free drinks (plus the aforementioned possibility of a fight), so why not? After the cut, I'll describe what happened there and how I did when I threw my hat into the RP arena.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: RP-PvP

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: RP-PvP originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bunker-barchotaenforcerfactional-warfarefactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedfreedom-defense-corpshaiettaicarusicarus-studioskaosnew-flagstaffoffice-parkpark-citypvprole-playroleplayroleplayersRolePlayingrprp-pvpsaintssocial-clothingFri, 15 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Revisiting the rules of immersion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/free-for-all-revisiting-the-rules-of-immersion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/free-for-all-revisiting-the-rules-of-immersion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/free-for-all-revisiting-the-rules-of-immersion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Years ago, I found myself wanting something more out of my gaming. I never was a "typical" player; I never achieved max level or defeated the greatest enemies. After some thought, I realized that I played the same as I lived: always curious, needing to explore, willing to step into someone else's story, or wanting to create my own. I needed games to mean more than just a stat-sheet or a weekly raid schedule. I needed to feel more connected to this activity that was taking up so much of my time. Otherwise, it was just a job.

At the time, I was very much into Vanguard. I still am, but my schedule has left me without enough time to play as much as I'd like. I loved how the world of Telon sucked you in with its massive landscapes and endless waters. Yes, the game has many issues, and yes, the community does as well. I wasn't going to let that stop me from writing up a series of rules -- more like guidelines -- that would almost force myself to slow down, to connect to the character I was playing, and to have fun.

I've decided to re-examine and update the rules, especially because I could use them now more than ever. We'll start by breaking down the original set.

Continue reading Free for All: Revisiting the rules of immersion

MassivelyFree for All: Revisiting the rules of immersion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbeau-turkeyfree-for-allImmersionimmersion-rulesmabinogirole-playrole-playingroleplayRolePlayingvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesWarhammer-Onlineweather-systemsWed, 01 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: We play pretend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/one-shots-we-play-pretend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/one-shots-we-play-pretend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/one-shots-we-play-pretend/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ever been stuck in an area waiting for things to get rolling? Oh wait, it's Monday -- that's a pretty common trope in Mondays isn't it? Well, if you've ever hit that type of a snag in your favorite MMO, you'll likely appreciate the ingenuity of today's One Shots contributor, Huggies S., who snapped this disturbingly silly screenshot in the Lord of the Rings Online not too long ago. Rather than be down about getting stuck in an area, he decided to use his imagination and turn it into a wacky adventure. We'll let him explain: "While exploring Moria without leaving the mines for a week, I started going stir crazy without sunlight. So I decided to role-play the mines as a Lore-Master who took the title "Friend of Animals" a little too seriously. This was snapped in a split second before I was yelled at for not paying attention to the orcs."

Why not join the fun and send in your own screenshots to be featured here on One Shots? We love to have lots of different games to pick images from! Just email them to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the game it's from, and a quick note describing the scene. We'll post it for everyone to enjoy and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: We play pretend originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>huggies-slord-of-the-rings-onlinelore-masterlotroone-shotsrole-playscreenshotscreenshotssillyturbineTurbine-EntertainmentMon, 08 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: Finding the sandbox]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/waging-war-finding-the-sandbox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/waging-war-finding-the-sandbox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/waging-war-finding-the-sandbox/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In this installment of Waging WAR, Greg takes a look at Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning from a few different angles and goes in search of the proverbial "sandbox" in a game that contains neither sand nor boxes.

Somewhere along the line during my childhood, I developed a habit for playing games with nearly every game I've ever played. I can even remember a time in my early teens when I sat down with a few friends and collaborated on making our own version of battlechess. Pages of chicken-scratched rules and several dice results-tables later, and we were off and running for a solid week of the most entertaining chess matches I've ever played. Or there was that time with The Sims when I started creating experimental families and then leaving my computer on overnight and not interacting with them, just to see how successful they could be without my help. I could bore you for hours on end with examples of how I twisted the rules and made my own games from the games I've played.

I suppose I can blame my penchant for metagaming on my early introduction to pen-and-paper roleplaying (i.e., D&D 1st Ed., to be specific). All I had was a sheet of paper, a handful of dice, a description of the world around me, and my imagination. By its very nature, PnP gaming is sandbox gaming. The reason I'm bringing this up now is that, until WAR, I had pretty much been able to "find the sandbox" in any MMO I was able to get my hands on. Whether it was building hardcore Dungeons & Dragons Online characters, roleplaying in City of Heroes, or achievement-chasing in World of Warcraft, I've never really been troubled with finding something to do when the grind started to wear me down. But now, with WAR, I'm finding most of my old tricks for MMO metagaming just aren't working.

To read about what I've tried, and why it didn't work in WAR, follow along after the break.

Continue reading Waging WAR: Finding the sandbox

MassivelyWaging WAR: Finding the sandbox originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebioware-eaBioware-MMObioware-mythicchampions-onlinecity-of-heroesCity-of-Villainsddoddo-unlimitedDiabloDungeons-and-Dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineEAea-mythicfeaturefeaturedfeaturesgunbadhardcorehunters-valekeepersmass-effect-2mass-effect-2-pcmass-effect-dlcmythicmythic-eaMythic-EntertainmentMythicEntertainmentpermadeathPNPpvpRedEyerole-playrole-playingroleplayRolePlayingrvrSandboxThe-Simstometome-of-knowledgetome-unlockswaging-warwarWarhammer-OnlineWorld-of-WarcraftWorldOfWarcraftwowSat, 04 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Demands]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/storyboard-demands/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/storyboard-demands/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/storyboard-demands/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hello, fellow roleplayers! I'm here to yell at all of you, myself included, as well as pretty much every single company producing MMOs at the moment. If possible, I'd also like the opportunity to yell at Gary Gygax for perpetuating certain modes of play far past the point that they were healthy for roleplaying games as a genre, but these days that just seems disrespectful. (Yelling at him about Lejendary Adventure should still be fair game.)

What am I so whiny about? The fact that we're now more than a decade into the existence of MMOs as a genre, and yet the most successful games out there don't give the tiniest crap about roleplayers. And yes, you might say, that's their fault for being bad hosts -- but it's also our own fault. Because while the idea of trying to roleplay has been marginalized, we've been sitting by and nodding our heads and agreeing that yes, we're not doing anything important. So it's time for a rant.

Continue reading Storyboard: Demands

MassivelyStoryboard: Demands originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardentertainmentfeaturedopinionplayer-toolsrole-playrole-playingroleplayingrprp-communityrp-toolsryzomstoryboardtoolsworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 03 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: A merry dance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/one-shots-a-merry-dance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/one-shots-a-merry-dance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/one-shots-a-merry-dance/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Every so often we hear from our friend Harperella, who loves to show off some of the great roleplay events that go on in Lord of the Rings Online. This time Harperella decided to send in an image of a group performing a dance that looks almost like it brought on a sprinkle of rain to keep the dancers cool. She writes in to explain:

"Here's a picture from Ales and Tales on the Landroval server. At these events, we actually put the in-game dances to the test, performing group dances to live music. Pictured is an elven circle dance with the lovely Rohanwood in the center, doing a hobbit dance."

Have you caught an image of a roleplaying event in your favorite game? One Shots is always on the hunt for something new and interesting going on in various MMOs out there, and we can use your help! Just email your screenshot to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post it out here for everyone to enjoy, and give you the credit for sharing it. It's that easy!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: A merry dance originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ales-and-talesharperellalandrovallord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroone-shotsrole-playroleplayscreenshotscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentMon, 16 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Blaster at my side]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/hyperspace-beacon-blaster-at-my-side/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/hyperspace-beacon-blaster-at-my-side/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/hyperspace-beacon-blaster-at-my-side/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hey, kids, the name's Han Solo. I've been asked to step in here because I know a thing or two about smuggling. I know many of you are lookin' to jump into this line of work, and I'm going to tell you right now: it ain't gonna be easy. You gotta live by your guts, kids. You hav'ta be smooth, and you can't let crazy green Rodians get under your skin. In fact, if a Rodian does come lookin' for you, I suggest you shoot him first. It'll save you some trouble in the long run, but don't forget to pay for the mess.

Maybe I should start with some of the greatest smugglers out there. That should help detour you from the insanity of this profession. Although none of 'em is as good as I am, Lando Calrissian, Dash Rendar, and even an old smuggler named Hylo Visz made their marks on history. Their lives were wrought with risky maneuvers, near-misses, and some damned good luck. So I guess if you think you've got what it takes, keep reading -- I'll meet you after the break.

[Thank you to Lois van Baarle for letting us use her artwork for the main banner. You can see more of her work at Loish.net.]

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Blaster at my side

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Blaster at my side originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Jul 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bespinBioWareboba-fettChewbaccacloud-citydash-rendarEAhan-solohothHydian-wayhylo-viszlando-calrissianlorelucas-artsLucasArtsmandaloriannerf-herderoutriderrole-playrole-playingroleplayRolePlayingsabaccsmugglesmuggledsmugglersmugglerssmugglers-rulesmugglingStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstorystorytellingswtorswtor-lore-guideMon, 05 Jul 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth car show today!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/15/fallen-earth-car-show-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/15/fallen-earth-car-show-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/15/fallen-earth-car-show-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Are your poor feet sore from running around Fallen Earth's enormous post-apocalyptic Grand Canyon? Sick of getting chomped on by mutated chickens? Just want to check out the latest and greatest when it comes to kludged-together vehicles -- or perhaps show off your own? Then get your convoy rolling for Spider Hill in the northern part of Sector 1 at 3 PM Eastern today! That's the site of the huge Car Show, being put on by Saints Incorporated and The Shop.

Aside from seeing all the latest in Fallen Earth automotive awesomeness, players who stop by will be treated to giveaways, a wasteland drag show, and heavens knows what else. Post Apoc Radio will also be on the scene to play some rockin' music and provide colorful RP commentary (as always). So gather up the whole clan and come by the Car show -- make valuable crafting friends, or pick up some excellent prizes!

MassivelyFallen Earth car show today! originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fallen-earthfeicarus-studiosin-game-eventplayer-created-contentpost-apoc-radiorole-playrpsaints-incorporatedthe-shopSun, 15 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOrigins: The play's the thing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/mmorigins-the-plays-the-thing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/mmorigins-the-plays-the-thing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/mmorigins-the-plays-the-thing/#commentsFiled under: ,


When it comes to my roots in MMOs, I actually have to start fairly early on with my general introduction to tech geekery. Growing up in my house was a somewhat strange affair. You see, back when computers used to take up entire rooms and ran on giant reels of tape -- later plastic key cards and paper tapes -- my father was working with them. Being part of our household meant one was essentially living with a highly technical mind that worked on and loved things like supercomputers. I experienced ideas and machines that many in the world hadn't, save in movies or on TV. It also meant that there were some pretty strange technical odds and ends floating around our home.

Continue reading MMOrigins: The play's the thing

MassivelyMMOrigins: The play's the thing originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cosplayfeaturedlarplive-action-role-playingmmommoriginsmmorpgmmospgopinionrole-playrole-playingvampire-the-masqueradevtmwodworld-of-darknessFri, 13 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[West Karana on roleplaying in the World of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/west-karana-on-roleplaying-in-the-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/west-karana-on-roleplaying-in-the-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/west-karana-on-roleplaying-in-the-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , ,

For those of you longing for days past in your roleplaying adventures --or if you're just curious about what all this roleplaying stuff is about -- West Karana has a great post up about some past experiences on the Kirin Tor server. We're especially entertained by the story of a high-level troll who traveled into Alliance areas and let mass amounts of lowbies battle her down slowly but surely while putting up a valiant fight. Another intriguing character was a gnome who started a guild called, "Snacks for the Horde" a guild with a mission to bring peace to Azeroth by bringing lots of food to the Horde.

It's stuff like this that make massively games so very interesting -- people in the communities who sometimes stop grinding and go looking for their own brand of fun. We certainly love it when people go out of their way to bring a bit more to their world of choice, whether it be through webcomics, machinima or straight-up roleplaying.

MassivelyWest Karana on roleplaying in the World of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardrole-playwest-karanaworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 28 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOGology: Roleplaying is dead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/mmogology-roleplaying-is-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/mmogology-roleplaying-is-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/mmogology-roleplaying-is-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

A red sun set over the ashen wastelands of Searing Gorge. Three shadows crept up a snaking path toward the encampment on Firewatch Ridge. The first shadow struck her victim hard in the back. The second pounced in cat form, lacerating and stunning her prey. The third finished off his hapless victim with a combination of quick stabs to the chest. The Twilight Idolater dropped silently to the ground. The trio continued to their next target, but this time their prey called for backup. The druid morphed into a vicious bear, drawing her enemies' attention to herself to take the brunt of the attack. The rogues tried to sap the reinforcements into submission or cut them down from behind. Despite their efforts the added numbers of the enemy overwhelmed the heroes and they fell.

"Hey Silvanna," said the cute, brunette rogue named Mystletoe. "Do you mind if I get my friend Barbi to help us. She's a 70 priest."

"Uh, OK." agreed the druid. It wasn't long before a beautiful, blonde priestess arrived. She revived her allies from the brink of death and with a few simple flicks of her supple wrist, slew the band of Twilight cultists without chipping a nail.

"Sweet, lets turn this quest in," said the rogue named Twojoints.

"So have you guys tried out the new voice chat?" asked Mystletoe. The druid began to sweat noticeably.

"Uh, no, no. I don't think mine's working quite right yet," replied Silvanna. Suddenly there was audible giggling from somewhere near the party. It was as if the air around them had come to life and was laughing at the group.

"So let's hear your beautiful voice Barbi," giggled the very feminine voice of Mystletoe.

"Hey guys," belted a baritone. Barbi was a man!

"Oh-my-God, Barbi's a dude!" laughed Mystletoe with an air of false surprise.
The druid sighed, somewhat relieved.

"That's OK Barbi," Silvanna replied. "So am I."

Continue reading MMOGology: Roleplaying is dead

MassivelyMMOGology: Roleplaying is dead originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BlizzardElendorElendor-MUSHfeaturedLord-of-the-Rings-OnlineLOTROMUDMUSHrole-playroleplayingTurbineWorld-of-WarcraftWoWMon, 19 Nov 2007 15:00:00 EST