Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[38 Studios' Project Copernicus to release in June 2013, says RI governor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/38-studios-project-copernicus-to-release-in-june-2013-says-ri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/38-studios-project-copernicus-to-release-in-june-2013-says-ri/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/38-studios-project-copernicus-to-release-in-june-2013-says-ri/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

38 Studios' Curt Schilling
It is not every day that a U.S. governor is the one to announce the launch window for an MMO, so savor the weirdness while you can: Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee announced at a press conference that 38 Studios will be releasing code-name Project Copernicus next summer. "What I understand is Copernicus is June of '13," Chafee said. He also stated that he thought the financial deal was a "risky enterprise" from the start.

38 Studios Founder and Chairman Curt Schilling said on Facebook that rumors of his using the state funds to repay his personal investment in the company was "not true." In a separate post, Schilling attempted to set an optimistic tone: "We will find a way, and the strength, to endure."

We have been following the financial turmoil that 38 Studios is in following its default on paying back Rhode Island for its $75 million loan. The studio and state are looking for options, but in the meanwhile, 38 Studios has been struggling to make payments by holding back employee paychecks and seeking additional capital from private investors.

Massively38 Studios' Project Copernicus to release in June 2013, says RI governor originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbusinesscurt-schillingfacebookfinanceindustrykingdoms-of-amalurkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoninglaunchlaunch-windowlegalLincoln-Chafeeloanmmo-industrypress-conferenceproject-copernicusreleaserelease-windowrepaymentrhode-islandrumorrumorsFri, 18 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Elder Scrolls Online leaks flood the web]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/elder-scrolls-online-leaks-flood-the-web/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/elder-scrolls-online-leaks-flood-the-web/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/elder-scrolls-online-leaks-flood-the-web/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Elder Scrolls Online - leaked character screenshot
The internet and rabid fandom being what they are, it's next to impossible for gaming press outlets to keep their exclusive information exclusive for very long. So it went with Game Informer's The Elder Scrolls Online reveal, which is slated to appear in its June print edition. Posters at NeoGAF, as well as pretty much every gaming news site around the web, subsequently got a hold of the article and leaked a bunch of screenshots as well as a few rumored gameplay details.

Said details include traditional hotbar combat, a third-person perspective, and around 120 hours' worth of leveling content for the average player.

MassivelyElder Scrolls Online leaks flood the web originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdaelder-scrollselder-scrolls-leakselder-scrolls-mmoelder-scrolls-mmo-gameplayfantasyleaksrumorstesothe-elder-scrolls-mmothe-elder-scrolls-onlinezenimax-onlineFri, 04 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter says rumored Nexon buyout of EA 'cannot happen']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/pachter-says-rumored-nexon-buyout-of-ea-cannot-happen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/pachter-says-rumored-nexon-buyout-of-ea-cannot-happen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/pachter-says-rumored-nexon-buyout-of-ea-cannot-happen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EA logo
Forbes reported on a rumored takeover of Electronic Arts by Nexon earlier this morning. The magazine noted that EA shares spiked following a supposed bid by the Korean gaming giant.

Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter weighed in on the rumors at GamesIndustry.biz, saying that the deal "cannot happen." He guesstimates that EA will balk at any such deal because "Nexon couldn't pull off a stock-for-stock deal [...] and would have difficulty financing an all-cash deal to make EA shareholders happy."

Pachter floats a few numbers in his analysis, and he also notes that EA CEO John Riccitiello isn't likely to cede control of the company to anyone outside of EA management.

MassivelyPachter says rumored Nexon buyout of EA 'cannot happen' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-rumorelectronic-artsJohn-riccitielloMichael-PachterMiscellaneousmmo-industrynexon-buying-eanexon-ea-rumornexon-rumorrumorsThu, 26 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic on its third anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/runes-of-magic-on-its-third-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/runes-of-magic-on-its-third-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/runes-of-magic-on-its-third-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Runes of Magic 3rd B-day image
Runes of Magic's third anniversary is finally upon us. Frogster has been gearing up for the event by holding diamond sales and cash-shop specials. Each anniversary, you can also take part in multiple frog-related quests and events. Frog-bashing, frog disguises, and more frog-bashing have long been a staple. Frog-racing and frog etiquette have been added to the roster. What's frog etiquette? Why, it's either insulting or complimenting frogs, silly. During the festivities, various freebies are usually handed out to players who log in, as well.

The real question is what's new in the land of Taborea, but if you wanted to know about new lands or dungeons, you'll have to wait a little bit longer. There's no official word, but given the time that's passed and the unofficial images and information that are floating around the Internet, we know Chapter 5 can't be too far off. There are still players out there who are far from making their way through the Chapter 4 content, but many guilds on the cutting edge are starting to trample Tomb of the Seven Heroes into a well-worn path.

During this intermediary period, Runewaker added the random attribute extractor and the costume interface. This isn't a replacement to aggregating; it's more like an extension. Most recently, the team introduced a patch containing bug fixes and a sprinkling of changes to the user interface, guilds, pets, vendor NPCs, quests, crafting, and skills. Some of the most exciting information is sketchy but does point to two possible new classes. And what class (or race?) could possibly have skills with names like "forge" and "runecraft" in them? Hmm...

Continue reading Runes of Magic on its third anniversary

MassivelyRunes of Magic on its third anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-years-oldanniversariesanniversarybirthdayf2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivehappy-anniversaryhappy-anniversary-romhappy-anniversary-runes-of-magichappy-birthday-romhappy-birthday-runes-of-magicjeremy-strattonromrumorrumorsrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttaboreathird-anniversarythree-years-oldMon, 19 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Elder Scrolls MMO to be announced in May]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/rumor-elder-scrolls-mmo-to-be-announced-in-may/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/rumor-elder-scrolls-mmo-to-be-announced-in-may/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/rumor-elder-scrolls-mmo-to-be-announced-in-may/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Elder Scrolls V - Skyrim: screenshot in the mountains
You know, that pesky Elder Scrolls MMO rumor just won't die. We've been hearing scuttlebutt of a Tamriel-themed massively multiplayer title for years now, and even though Bethesda has debunked such gossip in the past, Tom's Hardware is citing an "industry source" who says the title is a reality.

The latest rumbling posits that the game will feature three factions and will take place several hundred years prior to the events of Morrowind, Oblivion, and Skyrim. Also, some sort of official announcement is supposedly scheduled for May. Following that, the source claims, the Elder Scrolls MMO will have a "presence at E3" in June.

Bethesda has yet to comment, but we'll bring you the latest info as it happens.

[Thanks to Matt for the tip!]

MassivelyRumor: Elder Scrolls MMO to be announced in May originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdaelder-scrollselder-scrolls-mmofantasymmo-industrynerdgasmoh-god-please-yesrumorrumorssandboxtamrielzenimaxzenimax-mediaThu, 15 Mar 2012 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Korean MMO Bless reveals English website]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/new-korean-mmo-bless-reveals-english-website/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/new-korean-mmo-bless-reveals-english-website/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/new-korean-mmo-bless-reveals-english-website/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bless - Archer and warrior vs. big lion thing
Stop us if you're heard this one before: There's a new MMO coming out of Korea. It's drop-dead gorgeous, it's built on the latest version of the Unreal engine, and it features fantasy armor that doesn't leave much to the imagination.

No, it's not Aion or even TERA. The new kid on the block is called Bless, and though we told you about the game back in October, it's taken Neowiz a while to come up with an English website. That website is now live (though it does take forever and a day to load). The site features a trailer, a few screenshots and character concepts, and brief snippets of lore that seem to indicate two factions (Cosmopolis and Hierapolis).

We've heard a rumor that Neowiz has more than 150 developers working on the project, some of whom worked on Aion, TERA, and Lineage II. We'll bring you more on the new title as it becomes available.

MassivelyNew Korean MMO Bless reveals English website originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blesscosmopolisepic-gamesepic-games-koreafantasyhierapoliskorean-mmommo-industryneowizrumorrumorsunreal-3Mon, 27 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Blizzard embracing F2P for unannounced game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/rumor-blizzard-embracing-f2p-for-unannounced-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/rumor-blizzard-embracing-f2p-for-unannounced-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/rumor-blizzard-embracing-f2p-for-unannounced-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Blizzard logo
Rumor has it that Blizzard is hopping on the free-to-play crazy train. Develop reports that the company "will embrace free-to-play and will apply the model in an upcoming, as yet unannounced game."

The website says that Blizzard has declined to comment in an official capacity, and the site's source could not provide more details. It's been speculated that World of Warcraft's recent subscription losses, the fact that DOTA is free-to-play, and the game's unlimited free trial though level 20 all indicate a shift in Blizzard's business model mindset.

COO Paul Sams also paid lip service to F2P at BlizzCon last October, saying that F2P "certainly is possible, if we find ourselves in that circumstance, or if we come up with a game where we think that's the right business model, the most appropriate for players to experience it."

Could the long-awaited Project Titan MMO be Blizzard's first F2P offering, or is a completely new title in the works? We'll update you as the story develops.

MassivelyRumor: Blizzard embracing F2P for unannounced game originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzard-f2pblizzard-f2p-rumorbusiness-modelsf2pfantasyfree-to-playpaul-samsproject-titanrumorrumorssci-fititantitan-f2pWorld-of-WarcraftwowThu, 23 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you think leaks are publicity stunts?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/the-daily-grind-do-you-think-leaks-are-publicity-stunts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/the-daily-grind-do-you-think-leaks-are-publicity-stunts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/the-daily-grind-do-you-think-leaks-are-publicity-stunts/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

No, not leeks!
Recent information leaks from game studios are becoming more and more frequent these days. That likely mean that either security isn't tight and leaks occur behind the backs of game publishers, or they're intentionally enticing the public under the guise of a super secret "leak."

Either way, these leaks do get our attention. When we're under the impression that information isn't meant to be seen by us, we want to see it even more. Recent examples include CCP's internal memo leak, Diablo III's beta leak, and just about anything to do with World of Warcraft's upcoming content.

So my question to you this morning is this: Are you suspicious of info leaks on upcoming games? Do you see leaks as genuinely secret information, or does your Spidey sense tell you that it's all to build hype for the game? Let us know your opinion below.

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you think leaks are publicity stunts? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hypeleaksleekspinopinionpublicitypublicity-stuntsrumorstdgthe-daily-grindFri, 18 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Senior Titan designer laid off by Blizzard]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/rumor-senior-titan-designer-laid-off-by-blizzard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/rumor-senior-titan-designer-laid-off-by-blizzard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/rumor-senior-titan-designer-laid-off-by-blizzard/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Blizzard logo
The recent spate of MMO industry layoffs isn't discriminating in terms of company size if the latest rumors are true. We've just been informed that one of Blizzard's golden boys has been served his walking papers, joining hundreds of devs from the likes of NCsoft, GamersFirst, GameForge, and CCP in recent weeks.

John Staats, the senior level designer on Blizzard's secretive Titan project, has been let go, according to our tipster. Staats has been with the company for over a decade and is responsible for some of World of Warcraft's most celebrated content including all the raid dungeons, Blackrock Mountain and Booty Bay, and numerous other instanced dungeons.

Staats was also described by Jeff Kaplan as the "hero of the WoW dev team."

[Thanks to Steve for the tip!]

MassivelyRumor: Senior Titan designer laid off by Blizzard originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzard-titanbreakingfantasyjeff-kaplanjohn-staatslayoffsmmo-industryrumorrumorssci-fititanwowMon, 07 Nov 2011 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: GamersFirst lays off 32 staffers, CFO [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/rumor-gamersfirst-lays-off-32-staffers-cfo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/rumor-gamersfirst-lays-off-32-staffers-cfo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/rumor-gamersfirst-lays-off-32-staffers-cfo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

GamersFirst logo
If the rumors are true, today has not been the best of days for MMO industry staffers. Hot on the heels of our NCsoft layoff story comes distressing news for fans of GamersFirst, as we've just received an anonymous tip concerning the apparent dismissal of 32 people from the firm's west coast office.

According to our tipster, "Most of the APB team was let go. A lot of the support staff was let go. The development team was not, to my knowledge, so the game is still being developed in Scotland." We've also been told that GamersFirst's CFO was let go.

We've reached out to G1 for clarification on this story, and as of press time there is no official word on the staffing decisions or how the shake-up will affect Fallen Earth and the rest of the company's free-to-play lineup.

[Updated: Reader alacritythief let us know that GamersFirst's Revoemnag and TechMech have responded to the layoffs in regard to APB's future. Their comments are just behind the break.]

Continue reading Rumor: GamersFirst lays off 32 staffers, CFO [Updated]

MassivelyRumor: GamersFirst lays off 32 staffers, CFO [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingf2pfallen-earthfantasyfree-to-playg1gamers-firstgamersfirstlayoffsmmo-industrypost-apocalypticrestructuringrumorrumorssci-fiThu, 27 Oct 2011 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ says WAR40K release date, features list is 'pure speculation']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/thq-says-war40k-release-date-features-list-is-pure-speculation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/thq-says-war40k-release-date-features-list-is-pure-speculation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/thq-says-war40k-release-date-features-list-is-pure-speculation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

WAR40K
Mass conspiracy? Over-eager fans? Or deliberate misinformation? No matter what the case, it turns out that recent information about Warhammer 40K: Dark Millennium Online was not passed down by THQ itself, and these "facts," such as the launch date and class list, should be treated as speculative rumors and nothing more.

THQ sent a letter to several media outlets clarifying the situation:
It has come to THQ's attention that some media are reporting that we've announced game details and a release date for our upcoming massively multiplayer online project, Warhammer 40,000: Dark Millennium Online. At this time THQ has not officially announced a release date and any reported features are pure speculation. THQ will announce confirmed game features and an official release date at a later time.
We will keep an eye on this title and the news coming out of THQ as it develops.

MassivelyTHQ says WAR40K release date, features list is 'pure speculation' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clarificationclass-listdark-millennium-onlinedmolaunch-daterumorrumorsthqwar-40k-dmowar40kwarhammer-40kwarhammer-40k-dark-millennium-onlineThu, 13 Oct 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine forums down, security breach rumors rampant]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/turbine-forums-down-security-breach-rumors-rampant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/turbine-forums-down-security-breach-rumors-rampant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/turbine-forums-down-security-breach-rumors-rampant/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Lord of the Rings Online
A Casual Stroll to Mordor reports that Turbine has brought down the Lord of the Rings Online official forums due to a "potential issue in the forum system." But of course, in the MMO world, you can't just bring forums down without starting a few conspiracy theories.

Rumors abound that the forum outage may be linked to some sort of security breach. Of course, we repeat, and please do listen when we say, this is only a rumor and in no way has it been verified. If and when it is verified or dismissed, we promise to let you know. Until then, please remain calm and carry on. That is all.

MassivelyTurbine forums down, security breach rumors rampant originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-casual-stroll-to-mordoracstmforum-outageforumslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrorumorrumorssecuritysecurity-breachturbineturbine-entertainmentWed, 12 Oct 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard quashes speculation about a potential World of StarCraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/blizzard-quashes-speculation-about-a-potential-world-of-starcraf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/blizzard-quashes-speculation-about-a-potential-world-of-starcraf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/blizzard-quashes-speculation-about-a-potential-world-of-starcraf/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As the kids say, headshot.
There's a very good reason why the now-infamous World of StarCraft mod had so many people so excited -- it seems like a pretty obvious project. After all, Blizzard has certainly made a big impression on the MMO world with World of Warcraft, so it seems like a no-brainer that their science fiction RTS might follow a similar path. Unfortunately, those of you waiting for just such an announcement have been told the exact opposite -- Blizzard currently has no plans to adapt the StarCraft setting to an MMO.

According to senior VP Frank Pearce, it's not so much a case of not liking the idea as not having available staff and time to pursue the angle, with the company's teams currently occupied by Diablo III, the mysterious Titan project, further sequels to StarCraft II, and of course World of Warcraft. While the title remains in Blizzard's trademark arsenal, it doesn't look as if the company will be using it for a game any time in the near future. It's good news for players who want the series to remain as an RTS, but bad news for the many fans hoping to make their own mark on the galaxy.

MassivelyBlizzard quashes speculation about a potential World of StarCraft originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzard-activisionindustryopinionrumorsstarcraftstarcraft-2starcraft-iiworld-of-starcraftWed, 17 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: TERA's Korean development director resigns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/rumor-teras-korean-development-director-resigns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/rumor-teras-korean-development-director-resigns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/rumor-teras-korean-development-director-resigns/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If the rumors are true (and we'd like to stress that these are simply rumors as of press time), Bluehole Studio is undergoing something of a shakeup following the less-than-stellar showing of its TERA MMORPG in Korea.

Hyun-Kyu Park, TERA's executive director, has reportedly left the development firm due to an as-yet undetermined internal conflict. Our sources in Korea tell us that Park locked horns with other senior Bluehole executives due to his desire to postpone the game's open beta earlier this year. At the time, Park stepped down from his role as TERA's chief producer to become a producer on a forthcoming Bluehole title but is now rumored to have left the firm entirely.

TERA launched in Korea on January 25th and Bluehole began merging servers earlier this summer. Massively has contacted En Masse Entertainment, TERA's North American publisher, and is awaiting a response.

MassivelyRumor: TERA's Korean development director resigns originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoblueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexecutivesfantasyhyun-kyu-parkmmo-industryrumorrumorsteraMon, 01 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB shoots down rumors of retail releases]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/apb-shoots-down-rumors-of-retail-releases/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/apb-shoots-down-rumors-of-retail-releases/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/14/apb-shoots-down-rumors-of-retail-releases/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

APB has not had an easy ride, launching and shutting down in record time. But the relaunch at the hands of GamersFirst has proven quite successful for the game, which gives rise to certain rumors. Case in point, the rumor that had swirled earlier today about the game seeing a retail re-release at the hands of IGS. It was certainly a nice rumor, but according to Rahul Sandil, it's nothing more than that.

In a statement released earlier today by Mr. Sandil, GamersFirst has been approached by a number of potential retail partners due to the runaway success of APB Reloaded. However, the company is still evaluating its options, and as a result they are not yet ready to announce any partnerships. Mr. Sandil also stressed that any retail partnership would not change the fact that the company is committed to free-to-play as a business model, which is doubtlessly good news for fans now enjoying the urban shooter free-for-all.

MassivelyAPB shoots down rumors of retail releases originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameapb-eaapb-gamebusinessdistributionea-all-points-bulletinea-apbea-gameselectronic-artselectronic-arts-all-points-bulletinf2pfree-to-playgamersfirstigsrumorsshooterThu, 14 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard's Titan a 'casual' MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/blizzards-titan-a-casual-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/blizzards-titan-a-casual-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/blizzards-titan-a-casual-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

In case you were worried about a lack of new and accessible MMOs coming down the pike over the next couple of years, the king of casual is riding to the rescue. At least, that's what an analyst at Sterne Agee hinted at on Gamasutra recently.

Arvind Bhatia is quoted on the game industry website as saying that Blizzard's product pipeline includes "expansion packs for StarCraft and World of Warcraft, a new Diablo game, [and] a new casual MMO." That casual MMO is of course Titan, the secretive WoW followup that has reportedly gobbled up Blizzard's most experienced designers.

While no one outside of Blizzard has any inkling as to Titan's setting, mechanics, or target audience, Bhatia's prediction makes a certain amount of sense given the realities of the MMO marketplace and the costs inherent in developing and marketing AAA titles. Head to Gamasutra for the full report.

MassivelyBlizzard's Titan a 'casual' MMO originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessibilityaccessibleanalystsarvind-bhatiablizzardcasualcasual-mmoin-other-news-water-is-wetmmo-industrypredictionsrumorsspeculationstern-ageesterne-ageetitantitan-mmoWed, 29 Jun 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumour: Leaked document shows CCP's microtransaction plans [UPDATED]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/rumour-leaked-document-shows-ccps-microtransaction-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/rumour-leaked-document-shows-ccps-microtransaction-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/rumour-leaked-document-shows-ccps-microtransaction-plans/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

In the wake of controversy surrounding EVE Online's new microtransaction store and its not-so-micro prices, a document has surfaced that has raised more than a few eyebrows in the EVE community. The PDF is reported to be a copy of CCP's internal company newsletter Fearless. Ex-CCP employee and current CSM member Seleene was able to verify that the company does circulate an internal newsletter by that name and that the style is very similar to the leaked document. However, the absolute authenticity of the document can not at this time be proven.

The document dates back to May 2011 and discusses how microtransactions will be integrated into EVE Online, DUST 514 and World of Darkness. Most of the document is fairly harmless, but a few parts have stood out to players. According to the document, "Not all virtual purchases [in EVE Online] will focus on customization: some will simply be new items, ammunition, ships, etc. that can be purchased outright." Also mentioned is the possibility of buying faction standings. Both of these would be in complete contrast to earlier promises from CCP not to allow microtransactions that influence gameplay.

Authenticity of the document is still in question, but we can reveal that the leaked PDF has had several pages removed before being made public. A link to the full version was later leaked on twitter. Page 2 of the document, which was omitted in the originally leaked file, contains a disclaimer stating that the views presented are personal opinions and not company policies or decisions. This adds further confusion as players attempt to make sense of the file's contents. We reached out to CCP to ask about the document's authenticity and to request clarification on the discussions presented in it. We'll update this post with any response we get.

[UPDATE: The document's authenticity has been confirmed by CCP Pann from CCPs PR department. Massively has a hard-hitting interview in the works with CCP Zulu on the issue]

MassivelyRumour: Leaked document shows CCP's microtransaction plans [UPDATED] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamescontroversydocumentdust-514eveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefearlessleakleakedLeaked-informationmicrotransactionnewsrumorrumorsrumourrumoursworld-of-darknessWed, 22 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaked memo says Pottermore is an online game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/leaked-memo-says-pottermore-is-an-online-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/leaked-memo-says-pottermore-is-an-online-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/leaked-memo-says-pottermore-is-an-online-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've been on mystical pins and needles for the past week as the countdown continues to tomorrow's full reveal of Pottermore, a mysterious website bearing J.K. Rowling's name. The Atlantic reports that a leaked memo making the rounds spells out the truth: Pottermore will be an online game of sorts.

The memo "suggests that [Pottermore.com] is a sophisticated online game that contains clues to prizes that are hidden in the real world. These are an unstated number of magic wands secreted in Britain and America, and possibly other countries."

This sounds more like an ARG -- alternate reality game -- than an MMO, although we're not prepared to rule out the possibility until all is said and revealed. The article mentions that this could be a marketing tool tied into Pottermore instead of Pottermore proper.

Fans who'd love to see a Harry Potter MMO still have hope that this could be the real deal, but we won't know for sure until tomorrow's announcement.

MassivelyLeaked memo says Pottermore is an online game originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-reality-gameannouncementargbreakingharry-potterharry-potter-mmojk-rowlingleakleakedleaked-memomarketingpotterpottermorerumorrumorsthe-atlanticwandWed, 22 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Turbine working on console MMO?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/rumor-turbine-working-on-console-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/rumor-turbine-working-on-console-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/20/rumor-turbine-working-on-console-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Internet scuttlebutt has it that Turbine is cooking up a console MMO codenamed Project Hendrix. A posting at GameSpot cites a Turbine job listing that seeks an engineer for an "unannounced online console project." The article also mentions the resume of one Josh Phelan, a Turbine employee who apparently mentioned the Hendrix title in his online resume (which has since gone dark).

Turbine's console aspirations are nothing new, as studio VP Craig Alexander hinted at such desires as early as 2009. Commenter speculation links the job listing to the mysterious Pottermore title, and given Turbine's acquisition by Warner Brothers (which also owns the Pottermore trademark), it's not unreasonable to suspect that the sorting hat could be getting ready to assign a Potter MMO to House Turbine.

Check out the details on GameSpot and let us know what you think in the comments.

MassivelyRumor: Turbine working on console MMO? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-mmoconsolescraig-alexanderfantasygamespotharry-potterharry-potter-mmohendrixjosh-phelanmmo-industrypottermoreproject-hendrixrumorrumorsspeculationturbinewarner-broswarner-brotherswbMon, 20 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: TERA Korean servers merging [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/rumor-tera-korean-servers-merging/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/rumor-tera-korean-servers-merging/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/rumor-tera-korean-servers-merging/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bluehole Studio's TERA action MMORPG is gearing up for its second round of Korean server merges since launch according to a blurb at MMO Culture. The fantasy title, which is currently being prepared for a North American release by En Masse Entertainment, is scheduled to trim its list of 35 shards to 15 this week.

Despite more upbeat news of fresh content in the offing, the merges come amid reports of lower-than-expected financial performance according to publisher NHN Korea. TERA launched in Korea last February and is gearing up for a Japanese beta on July 1st. No North American or European beta dates have been announced.

[Update]: TERA's main Korean website does provide both official confirmation of server merges as well as time projections.

MassivelyRumor: TERA Korean servers merging [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoblueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfrogsterfrogster-interactivekorean-server-mergesmmo-culturenhn-korearumorrumorsserver-mergesteratera-koreatera-onlineWed, 01 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Zelda about to hit the MMO space?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/is-zelda-about-to-hit-the-mmo-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/is-zelda-about-to-hit-the-mmo-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/is-zelda-about-to-hit-the-mmo-space/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The land of Hyrule may be invading your computer very soon -- or maybe you will be invading it. Nintendo, creator of the console hit the Legend of Zelda, has just registered for an ESRB rating for a game called Zelda Universe. According to the ESRB website, this mysterious game has received an "E" rating with "violence" as the only descriptive text, but the game is listed as "online." Although all other Nintendo games have a console listed along with the rating, this particular title does not. This could very well mean that everyone's favorite adventurer will appear in an MMORPG.

The official website for the Legend of Zelda games is called Zelda Universe, but the Entertainment Software Rating Board is not in the habit of handing out ratings to online content unless that content is also a game. Perhaps this is one of the big announcements Nintendo will reveal in its presentation at the Electronic Entertainment Expo in less than 12 days.

MassivelyIs Zelda about to hit the MMO space? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 May 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>entertainment-software-ratings-boardesrbgannongannondorfHyrulelegend-of-zeldalinknintendorumorrumorsthe-legend-of-zeldatri-forcezeldazelda-universeThu, 26 May 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two signs with XLGames to make existing property into an MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/take-two-signs-with-xlgames-to-make-existing-property-into-an-mm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/take-two-signs-with-xlgames-to-make-existing-property-into-an-mm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/take-two-signs-with-xlgames-to-make-existing-property-into-an-mm/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

How would a Grand Theft Auto MMO grab you? Would you play a Red Dead Redemption or LA Noire massively multiplayer title? While the possibility of said games still falls into the rumor category at this point, we can confirm that Take-Two Interactive has entered into a partnership with XL Games to make one of the former's existing properties into an MMO.

XL has been in the news recently due to its upcoming ArcheAge sandpark, and the company founded by noted Lineage developer Jake Song will work on the new title with Take-Two subsidiary 2K Games. Kotaku first reported the rumor to the English-speaking world earlier this morning, while the source is Korean website 4gamer.

A press release has also been issued by 2K; CEO Christoph Hartmann hints at the company's desire to broaden its horizons. "Our partnership with XL Games underscores our ongoing commitment to expanding 2K's presence in online gaming and the Asian market," Hartmann explains. XL's Song says that work on the new title is ongoing. "We have already been working together for a year on the game, and I can tell you this is one of the most exciting projects that I've ever undertaken," he said.

MassivelyTake-Two signs with XLGames to make existing property into an MMO originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 May 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gameschristoph-hartmanngrand-theft-autojake-songla-noiremmo-industrynew-titlespress-releasepublishing-dealred-dead-redemptionrumorrumorstake-twoTake-Two-Interactivexlxl-gamesMon, 23 May 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Funcom readying new Age of Conan lands]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/rumor-funcom-readying-new-age-of-conan-lands/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/rumor-funcom-readying-new-age-of-conan-lands/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/rumor-funcom-readying-new-age-of-conan-lands/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Speculation and excitement are the order of the day on both the European and American forums for Age of Conan. What's all the hubbub about? Two new lands are purportedly in the works, and this jibes with a cryptic comment by Funcom game director Craig "Silirrion" Morrison in last month's development update.

"This is where we get to the stuff we can't quite talk about just yet... yes, a little teasing I know, but trust us, it is far more frustrating not being able to talk about what is coming just yet. These will be important updates, with two new and important elements incoming," Morrison wrote.

Fans are speculating that the two new and important elements are in fact two Hyborian provinces filled with a multitude of new zones, specifically Turan and Ardashir. Massively has confirmed that bringing up the in-game player search tab and filtering by region shows two new headings labeled Turan and Ardashir alongside the pre-existing countries of Aquilonia, Cimmeria, Stygia, and Khitai. There is also a bit of conjecture on the official boards regarding Funcom's annual report, which says in part that 2011 will bring "significant content and story tie-ins with the [new Conan] movie." We'll keep you updated as this story develops and as we get official word from the devs.

[Thanks to Nyan for the tip!]

MassivelyRumor: Funcom readying new Age of Conan lands originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 May 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocardashirbreakingbut-aoc-is-dyingconanconan-moviecraig-morrisondevelopment-updateexpansionfantasyfuncomhyborianew-landsnew-zonespossible-expansionrumorrumorssilirrionturanSun, 08 May 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: A new Ultima MMO might be in the works]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/rumor-a-new-ultima-mmo-might-be-in-the-works/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/rumor-a-new-ultima-mmo-might-be-in-the-works/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/rumor-a-new-ultima-mmo-might-be-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The modern era of MMOs began in 1997 with a little game called Ultima Online, and it's fair to say that the genre would look very different if that first example hadn't gone live. These days, outside of a dedicated playerbase and stalwart fans, the game is no longer at the center of attention. But there are a lot of players who still remember it fondly as an introduction to the field... and there are hints here and there that it might be time for a sequel to the game that started it all.

It's a known fact that Paul Barnett has been hinting at a secret project that is quite possibly an RPG, and it's also no secret that Electronic Arts is recruiting for an MMO programmer at its Redwood location. The company has also stepped up defending its trademarks for the Ultima franchise of late, which leads to a bit of interesting speculation. Could it be time for Ultima Online to get a sequel and a new generation of players, a project which has been started and stopped twice before? There's surely something happening behind the scenes...

MassivelyRumor: A new Ultima MMO might be in the works originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioware-mythiceaelectronic-artsmythicmythic-entertainmentpaul-barnettpossible-sequelrumorrumorsspeculationultima-onlineultima-online-2uouo2Wed, 30 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2011: Bungie's MMO won't be WoW in space]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/gdc-2011-bungies-mmo-wont-be-wow-in-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/gdc-2011-bungies-mmo-wont-be-wow-in-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/gdc-2011-bungies-mmo-wont-be-wow-in-space/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The top secret MMO project from Bungie continues to raise fan and industry eyebrows despite the absence of any real information about the title. The game, rumored to carry the code name Destiny, will be massively multiplayer, and it will be set against a space/sci-fi backdrop. Beyond that, it's anyone's guess as to what will actually emerge from the Halo-maker's secret laboratory.

Joystiq has unearthed a blurb about the project from this week's GDC, wherein Bungie lead network engineer David Aldridge was overheard referring to the game as "massively multiplayer" as well as the fact that it won't be "WoW in space."

MassivelyGDC 2011: Bungie's MMO won't be WoW in space originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungiebungie-destinybungie-mmobungie-studiosbungivisiondestinyhalohypemicrosoftmmommo-industryrumorssci-fiscience-fictionspace-mmowow-in-spaceFri, 04 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: From a certain point of view]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/hyperspace-beacon-from-a-certain-point-of-view/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/hyperspace-beacon-from-a-certain-point-of-view/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/hyperspace-beacon-from-a-certain-point-of-view/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's interesting to me how a very tiny bit of misinformation can skew people's perception of -- well, anything, but let's say a game, for today's purposes. Just like a snowball rolling down a hill, misinformation collects more and more misinformation until it's totally out of control. People accept it as truth because there is no denying it's there. Sure, it's packed with lies. But it's big, so there has to be some truth in there, right?

There are many misconceptions and untruths about Star Wars: The Old Republic. People have posted in blogs about EA or SWTOR citing unnamed sources. It seems that a good chunk of these people are looking to knock down the giant that is The Old Republic. This surprises me because the game isn't even out, yet people see it as some sort of oppressive overlord -- like a certain Sith Emperor, maybe.

Today, I would like to analyze a couple of these myths and really attempt to understand why they are accepted. Although I want to show how these stories are wrong, there is a bit of truth in most of them, and I don't want to discount that. Follow me after break as we talk about release dates and wingless insects.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: From a certain point of view

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: From a certain point of view originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebudgetEAea-louseElectronic-ArtsfeaturedLucasArtsrelease-daterumorsStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicSWTORthe-old-republictorTue, 08 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom calls The Secret World release date a "misunderstanding"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/funcom-calls-the-secret-world-release-date-a-misunderstanding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/funcom-calls-the-secret-world-release-date-a-misunderstanding/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/funcom-calls-the-secret-world-release-date-a-misunderstanding/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Did you know that Funcom's The Secret World was due to release "in the next few months?" We didn't either, nor apparently did Funcom despite a published report to the contrary in The Montreal Gazette. The article touches on Funcom's relationship with Electronic Arts and its disappointment with Age of Conan's performance relative to World of Warcraft's. It also intimates that The Secret World (developed at the company's Montreal studio) is nearing completion.

"This must have been a misquote or a misunderstanding of some sorts. We have never communicated a release date for The Secret World," said a Funcom spokesperson in a statement to Eurogamer earlier today.

Development on The Secret World is ongoing, and the game features a co-mingling of contemporary horror, conspiracy, and fantasy elements with Lovecraftian themes and skill-based progression.

MassivelyFuncom calls The Secret World release date a "misunderstanding" originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanconspiracyfantasyfuncomhorrormisunderstandingmontrealmontreal-gazetterumorsskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswTue, 01 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Gameplay mechanics -- twisted and evil]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/hyperspace-beacon-gameplay-mechanics-twisted-and-evil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/hyperspace-beacon-gameplay-mechanics-twisted-and-evil/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/hyperspace-beacon-gameplay-mechanics-twisted-and-evil/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

As I'm writing this, it's Sunday, and I've just finished talking to Gary Gannon and Mike B of Gamebreaker.tv. Although I had planned to talk about character creation in this week's Hyperspace Beacon because it's been such a hot topic for other games, I realized that I may have been wrong in a couple of my statements regarding the originality of Star Wars: The Old Republic's mechanics. In comments on Mos Eisley Radio, I've said that combat mechanics in SWTOR are very similar to what you'd find in most MMOs. I believe I am going to have to take those statements back, if slightly. During the conversation with Gamebreaker, it occurred to me that even though the mechanics are familiar to most MMO players, they aren't exactly structured the way most MMOs build them.

This prompted me to take a closer look at other mechanics we have been told about that differ from those in other MMOs. Is crafting different? How about other combat systems? I agree that there is an air of familiarity to all these mechanics. Why do they feel familiar? How are they different? Follow me after the break to explore these questions.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Gameplay mechanics -- twisted and evil

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Gameplay mechanics -- twisted and evil originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-barBioWareclassescraftingcrew-skillsEAElectronic-Artsenergy-barsfeaturedGame-MechanicsLucasArtsmanaOpinonrumorrumorsStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstoryswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 25 Jan 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA interview translation hints at targeting and combat changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/tera-interview-translation-hints-at-targeting-and-combat-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/tera-interview-translation-hints-at-targeting-and-combat-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/tera-interview-translation-hints-at-targeting-and-combat-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Despite the recent rumors of a prolonged delay in the North American/European testing and release schedule, there are still plenty of interesting goings-on in the world of TERA. ThisisGame.com has once again published an interview with Bluehole Studio heavyweights (including TERA's executive developer, CEO, and lead graphic artist), and once again the Korean original has been translated by the folks at TERAfans.

There are quite a few interesting nuggets to be found throughout the piece, none more curious than the apparent closed beta tweaks to the game's much-ballyhooed targeting system. We'd like to stress "apparent" here because in the absence of confirmation from North American publisher En Masse Entertainment, these translations fall squarely under the rumor sub-heading. That said, if the info is accurate, it represents a shift from what we've heard of the game's combat thus far.

"TERA is an MMORPG with action elements, but the game itself is not an action game. If we call TERA a non-targeting game, many people expect an action game. Throughout the game's various tests, we tried to make TERA easier to get into, adding a lock-on system and many other improvements. After those changes we also decided to rename the non-targeting system to "free targeting system". Let's be honest free targeting rolls off the tongue better doesn't it? It doesn't sound so negative," the article says.

MassivelyTERA interview translation hints at targeting and combat changes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobetaBlueHolebluehole-studioclosed-betacombatcombat-changesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyinterviewkorean-betarumorrumorstargetingteratera-onlineWed, 05 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA North American release rumors abound]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/tera-north-american-release-rumors-abound/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/tera-north-american-release-rumors-abound/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/tera-north-american-release-rumors-abound/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A storm is brewing on En Masse Entertainment's official TERA forums, one that threatens to bring more drama to the intarwebs, kill helpless Popori in their beds, and delay TERA's North American release for months. OK, maybe the first two are a bit overwrought, but there are rumors regarding the game's possible late 2011 arrival swirling around the internet.

It all started with an interview at a Korean website called ThisIsGame.com, which spoke with Bluehole Studio boss Kang-Suk Kim. Fan translations of the interview seem to indicate that TERA will launch in Japan during the first half of 2011 and North American/European beta testing will begin a month later (which would lead to an even later final release date). So far though, the dates are a mixture of speculation and conjecture as En Masse (TERA's North American publisher) has declined to offer any clarification.

Rest assured that Massively is checking with our Korean sources, and we'll bring you the very latest as it happens.

MassivelyTERA North American release rumors abound originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BlueHolebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyinterviewskang-suk-kimlaunchnorth-american-launchreleaserumorrumorsteratera-onlinethisisgametranslationsTue, 04 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Codemasters denies picking up APB]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/codemasters-denies-picking-up-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/codemasters-denies-picking-up-apb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/codemasters-denies-picking-up-apb/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you were holding out hope that the defunct urban crime MMO All Points Bulletin would be resurrected courtesy of the folks at Codemasters, Eurogamer has a little bit of cold water to throw on your fire. David Solari, Codemasters Online general manager, minces no words in a recent interview.

"We have not picked up APB, I can answer you definitively," he said.

Rumors circulated that the publisher might be picking up the pieces of the shuttered MMO, left scattered by the closing of Realtime Worlds, when former RTW community manager Ben Bateman updated his LinkedIn profile to reflect his new job at Codemasters. Epic Games has also been rumored as a potential salvager, and Solari says that someone will inevitably pick up APB's assets, if only for the innovative tech. "If they don't pick up the game then they will pick up the technology for sure, because the avatar and character customisation technology is incredible. Something will definitely be done to preserve that," he muses.

MassivelyCodemasters denies picking up APB originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameapbben-batemancodemastersdefunctepic-gamesgame-closingmmo--industryRealtime-WorldsRealTimeWorldsrumorstechnologySun, 07 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 121]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/massively-speaking-episode-121/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/massively-speaking-episode-121/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/massively-speaking-episode-121/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 121 is back with Shawn and Rubi giving their unwarranted opinions of the big news of the week. Yay! This week's topics include APB's possible purchase, Hi-Rez Studios' acquisition of the Tribes franchise and Champions Online's shot at going free-to-play.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to shawn@massively.com with the subject "Massively Speaking." We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.
Massively Speaking is the official podcast of Massively.com. Hosted by Editor-in-Chief Shawn Schuster and Contributing Editor Rubi Bayer, Massively Speaking takes on the week's biggest news and dev interviews with plenty of opinion, rants, and laughs thrown in for good measure. Join us every Wednesday afternoon to listen in and see what we'll say next!

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 121

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 121 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>massively-metamassively-speakingopinionpodcastingpodcastsrumorsWed, 27 Oct 2010 15:30:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 121Massively.com Staff42:39podcasts<![CDATA[Rumor: Elder Scrolls MMO in the works?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/rumor-elder-scrolls-mmo-in-the-works/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/rumor-elder-scrolls-mmo-in-the-works/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/rumor-elder-scrolls-mmo-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Just about every MMO player has an IP he'd like to see undergo the MMO treatment. For some of us here at Massively, that IP is Bethesda's long-running Elder Scrolls series. Due to a deep reservoir of lore and the fact that earlier games in the series (notably Morrowind and Daggerfall) were more MMO-like than many modern MMOs, we'd love to see what Bethesda would do with such a beast.

Apparently we're not the only ones, as SystemLink has posted a bit of speculation on a possible The Elder Scrolls V, highlighting a few job postings as evidence in support of its theory. While we're not completely sold on the author's conclusions -- mainly due to Bethesda's plainly articulated stance on the massive genre -- we suspect this won't be the last we hear of an Elder Scrolls MMORPG..

MassivelyRumor: Elder Scrolls MMO in the works? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdaBethesda-Game-Studiosbethesda-mmoBethesda-Softworksbethsoftdaggerfalldo-wantelder-scrollselder-scrolls-mmomorrowindOblivionrumorrumorstestes-mmothe-elder-scrollszenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-online-studiosMon, 18 Oct 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Layoffs hit Paragon Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/layoffs-at-paragon-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/layoffs-at-paragon-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/layoffs-at-paragon-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A rumor has just broken that Paragon Studios, the team responsible for City of Heroes, has just undergone a round of layoffs. This comes following the launch of Going Rogue, the game's second boxed expansion and center of a major re-arrangement for the game. Among those rumored to be laid off is Christopher Bruce, known to the fans of the game as Back Alley Brawler and the senior animation lead for the studio.

While there have been rumors for some time that the team had been expanding and working on an additional project, possibly a sequel to the now-venerable City of Heroes, it's unknown what long-term impacts these layoffs might have on both the existing game and any future projects. We contacted NCsoft and received official confirmation of the layoffs, but the company thus far has been unable to provide information on who, exactly, has been let go. Our condolences go out to all employees affected by the layoffs.

MassivelyLayoffs hit Paragon Studios originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-alley-brawlerbreakingbreaking-newschristopher-brucecity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-going-roguecity-of-villainscohcovcoxcutsgoing-roguegrjob-cutsjob-losslayoffsncsoftparagonparagon-studiosrumorsstaff-cutsstaff-layoffsstaff-lossThu, 07 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Force is with SWTOR testing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/the-force-is-with-swtor-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/the-force-is-with-swtor-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/the-force-is-with-swtor-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Many rumors have been floating around regarding Star Wars: The Old Republic's beta testing status. What's being tested, exactly? Who's conducting the testing? This week, another one of those rumors has been let out of the proverbial bag. The rumor we've received from several tipsters says that -- although BioWare is not moving to an open beta -- the team is moving to another phase of testing this week. The deals of what is involved in this week's testing are sketchy at best, but multiple sources have reported to us mentioning they are testing. Providing more info than that would surely break their NDA, and we wouldn't report on that anyway.

Blaine Christine, the Live Producer for SWTOR, is the man in charge of testing, as he told us at PAX. He has his work cut out for him with the number of fans banging at the door to get into testing -- as evident by the number of tweets to @swtor asking to sell or do strange things in return. However, there is only one way to get into game testing: Register at the official website, go click the account button at the top, click the radial button which states, "Yes, I would like to be considered for testing," then follow the instructions on how to allow the site to snag your system information.

We wish you luck getting into any form of testing that BioWare is conducting, and we wish BioWare luck in this current phase. May the Force be with you.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

MassivelyThe Force is with SWTOR testing originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaBioWaredid-I-mention-this-is-a-rumoreaeletronic-artsgame-testinglucasartsrumorrumorsrumors-about-game-testingStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicthis-is-a-rumor-not-facttorTue, 28 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Realtime Worlds continues working toward recovery]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/realtime-worlds-continues-working-toward-recovery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/realtime-worlds-continues-working-toward-recovery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/realtime-worlds-continues-working-toward-recovery/#commentsFiled under: , ,

News surrounding Realtime Worlds is coming at a rapid-fire pace these days, in a sometimes-confusing mix of dire and hopeful.

Develop-Online reported a rumor earlier this week that RTW's North American office was closing, citing a "variety" of unnamed sources, but other events point to a potentially brighter outlook.

Earlier this week we brought you the news that Realtime Worlds has entered administration, spurring Activision to send a recruitment team to Dundee. The good news in this is that the administration process will keep RTW on its feet -- and APB up and running -- until the company completes restructuring and finds a buyer for the game.

APB's upcoming Patch 1.4.1 is another potential bright spot. The patch notes include a promise that "this isn't just another set of bug fixes; this is the beginning of some of the most fundamental changes to date." The patch brings new content and some gameplay changes, and also addresses several issues that were causing players a fair amount of grief.

Will these efforts mean good things for Realtime Worlds? Keep an eye on Massively for future updates.

MassivelyRealtime Worlds continues working toward recovery originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionadministrationall-points-bulletinapbapb-patch-1.4.1legalRealtime-WorldsrtwrumorsThu, 19 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: The Old Republic space combat on rails?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/rumor-the-old-republic-space-combat-on-rails/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/rumor-the-old-republic-space-combat-on-rails/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/rumor-the-old-republic-space-combat-on-rails/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Those of you looking for levels of complexity and immersion comparable to X-Wing Vs. TIE Fighter or Star Wars Galaxies' Jump to Lightspeed might want to hold your horses prior to pinning your hopes on BioWare's Star Wars: The Old Republic. The forthcoming MMORPG is rumored to feature space combat "on rails," which basically means it could be nothing more than a mini-game or a "tunnel shooter" that severely restricts player movement in the form of pre-set paths and goals.

While this is currently unofficial information, you can find a detailed write-up at the German fansite known as Online Welten. Purportedly, site contributors were privy to an upcoming article in PC Action magazine which goes into detail about some of the mechanics.

Check out the original article (auf Deutsch) or the Google-translated version.

MassivelyRumor: The Old Republic space combat on rails? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Aug 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareBioware-MMObioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtorbreakingBreakingNewson-railsonline-weltenpc-actionrail-shooterrumorrumorsspace-combatStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-old-republicSun, 08 Aug 2010 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE layoffs detailed, EQII and Vanguard affected]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/soe-layoffs-detailed-eqii-and-vanguard-affected/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/soe-layoffs-detailed-eqii-and-vanguard-affected/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/soe-layoffs-detailed-eqii-and-vanguard-affected/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Layoffs in any industry are never pleasant, and in a smallish community like that of the professional game developer, they can be even more trying. As we reported yesterday, Sony Online Entertainment recently announced the decision to serve 35 employees with their walking papers, and speculation has run rampant in the absence of official information.

Two of the developers now looking for work checked in on the EQ2Flames forum to confirm the news and thank the community for their support. SOE's big-budget fantasy titles look to be the most affected by the moves. EverQuest II loses Brett "Timetravelling" Scheinert, responsible for various raid designs on the Sentinel's Fate expansion. Rumored Vanguard losses include William "Wigin" Bidermann and Jason "Ikik" Weimann, as well as Joel "Raijinn" Sasaki, the game's community manager.

Finally, Steve "Saavedra" Kramer, a former EQII designer and most recently working on The Agency, was also let go. SOE also terminated two as-yet unnamed marketing employees.

[Update #2: While we now have confirmation that Jason "Ikik" Weimann was not among those let go (as originally rumored), we're still attempting to clarify the rumored departure of the other Vanguard dev. Joel "Raijinn" Sasaki's departure has been confirmed as well. We'll update the post as soon as we receive additional info.]

MassivelySOE layoffs detailed, EQII and Vanguard affected originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingEQ2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iilayoffsmmo-industryrumorrumorssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-agencyvanguardFri, 16 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Is Star Trek Online due for Turbine's business model?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/rumor-is-star-trek-online-due-for-turbines-business-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/rumor-is-star-trek-online-due-for-turbines-business-model/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/12/rumor-is-star-trek-online-due-for-turbines-business-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Back in early June, Turbine surprised everyone -- for the second time in a year -- by announcing that Lord of the Rings Online would be moving to a free-to-play model akin to Dungeons and Dragons Online. It seems like a somewhat risky move on one level, but also quite understandable given the success the latter has enjoyed. Now we're hearing potential rumblings of another game heading in that direction -- specifically, from Star Trek Online's new Executive Producer Daniel Stahl.

In the midst of a thread rather unhappy with some of the answers from the most recent Ask Cryptic outing, Stahl chimed in about Star Trek Online going free-to-play. Stahl mentions that he could easily see Cryptic's game adopting a similarly hybrid model, with the option for a subscription as well as the option to pay as you play. While he stops far from saying that it's in the plan, he does say the success enjoyed by Turbine is well worth taking note. Alternative subscription plans are gaining momentum, and with gamers complaining about the C-Store prices combined with a subscription fee, the idea might not be so far-fetched after all.

[Thanks to Alexander for the tip!]

MassivelyRumor: Is Star Trek Online due for Turbine's business model? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelsc-storecrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaniel-stahlddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfree-to-playlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromicrotransactionsrumorrumorsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineturbineturbine-entertainmentMon, 12 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Will Final Fantasy XIV be delayed until 2011?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/03/rumor-will-final-fantasy-xiv-be-delayed-until-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/03/rumor-will-final-fantasy-xiv-be-delayed-until-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/03/rumor-will-final-fantasy-xiv-be-delayed-until-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

For those of us looking forward to new releases this year, Final Fantasy XIV is one of the few hopes we have that doesn't involve expansions. Unfortunately, a nasty little rumor has been spreading around: that it's not going to be coming out this year after all. The run of login issues that the alpha test has been experiencing has prompted more than a few people to believe that the game is having some serious problems, and we've received a few tips from our readers, as well as a tip-off from an industry insider.

Here's the thing: if it's being delayed, Yoichi Wada certainly doesn't know anything about it. And as the CEO, he's the sort of person who gets kept in the loop. The fine system folks at the Order of the Blue Gartr did an excellent job rounding up much of the information, explaining that the login issues were caused by staff underestimations, not system problems. Wada confirmed elsewhere that the game was on track, both on a Japanese Final Fantasy XIV fan site and via his own tweets. While we don't have an exact date for release just yet, it seems that the game is still on track for this year... for the moment.

MassivelyRumor: Will Final Fantasy XIV be delayed until 2011? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 May 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaydelaysffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivlaunch-delayslaunchesrumorrumorsYoichi-WadaMon, 03 May 2010 19:00:00 EST