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[Runes of Magic celebrates its 4th Anniversary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/runes-of-magic-celebrates-its-4th-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/runes-of-magic-celebrates-its-4th-anniversary/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/runes-of-magic-celebrates-its-4th-anniversary/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Runes of Magic celebrates its 4th Anniversary
Our favorite birthdays are the ones when the guests get gifts instead of giving them. Apparently Runes of Magic feels the same, as Gameforge is pulling out the stops to make the 4th anniversary of the game one for the history books.

Runes of Magic's 4th anniversary page has the scoop on all of the gifts, contests, events, and bonuses to be enjoyed over the next week. Players will get a lot of goodies just for logging in and leveling up, although there are additional quests if you want to reap all of the rewards. Players will also enjoy buffs to XP, talent points, and drop rates through the 25th.

Finally, Gameforge released a special video that shows the progress of Runes of Magic from beta to today, ending with several impressive statistics. If you don't watch it, you'll go mad always wondering what it might have been. We'd hate to see that.

Continue reading Runes of Magic celebrates its 4th Anniversary

MassivelyRunes of Magic celebrates its 4th Anniversary originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots Dancing with my homies
First of all, thank you guys so much for responding to our One Shots rallying cry and absolutely flooding us with screenshots! My cup overfloweth, and that's a delightful change of pace for this column. Even though we're quite literally set for months now, please keep sending in your favorite old or new screencaps!

To kick us off this week is Jerry, who's showing off how Anarchy Online can party down with the best of them: "This is Yardsale, a level 220 Trader, dancing with his trader pets in Borealis."

At first glance, I almost thought we were in the Matrix. But even with polygons so sharp that you can cut yourself on them, this title definitely has a style all its own. Hit the jump to see this and other wonders of the screenshotted world.

Continue reading One Shots: Dancing with my homies

MassivelyOne Shots: Dancing with my homies originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaobring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playcity-of-heroescity-of-villainsclassic-mmocohcovcoxf2pfactionfantasyfree-to-playfreedomfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivefuncomgalleriesgallerygameforgegameforge-berlinhorrormythologyncsoftone-shotsparagonparagon-studiospics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsci-fantasysci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssecret-worldskill-basedsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroestaboreathe-secret-worldtswuser-submissionsSun, 10 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Creative MMO minigames]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-perfect-ten-creative-mmo-minigames/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-perfect-ten-creative-mmo-minigames/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/the-perfect-ten-creative-mmo-minigames/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Creative MMO minigames
Few people are without opinions on minigames in MMOs. Some love 'em, some hate 'em, and some just ignore 'em. Some even despise that I won't type "th." Takes all types, really. Personally, I'm all for including new types of enjoyable systems that can be repeated, particularly if it benefits my character in some way.

There's also this perception that minigames are just for kids. It's true that more kid-centric titles like Free Realms and Clone Wars Adventures thrive on minigames like you thrive on deep-fried butter balls, but these little diversions exist all over the place in "grownup" titles too. Holidays are a favorite time to trot them out, although there are plenty that exist year-round.

Today we're going to look at 10 creative minigames that have tickled my fancy over the year. Yes, I used the word "fancy." Whatcha gonna do about it?

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Creative MMO minigames

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Creative MMO minigames originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Reach out to the truth.
It's that time again, ladies and gentlemen. After three rounds of letting my fate be chosen by the whims of my readers, I have chosen to do the exact same thing all over again. I'm getting back in the big seat and running through Choose My Adventure with a new list of games, a new set of bonus polls, and a new set of whatever else people expect when I do these columns.

Plus, while the third installment usually has a lot of pressure, the fourth installment is rarely assumed to be anything special. So I feel as if I'm off the hook.

This time around, I'm putting in some old favorites, some candidates that are often voted for but never make the prime time, and some games that might just raise some eyebrows. So let's meet our contestants past the break, and get your votes in here by Friday, March 1st!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Quartet edition

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Quartet edition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jukebox Heroes A few of my favorite soundtracks
I could hear some of you thinking in disbelief last week, "If Age of Conan isn't one of your top MMO scores, what is? And just how much am I not sending you a Christmas card this year, you loser?" You were kind enough to just think it and not say it, but I could hear it even so.

As we've mentioned countless times in this column, musical tastes are subjective. What's appealing to you may not be for me and vice-versa. What more is that musical tastes -- and favorites -- are always shifting around. I listen back to the jams that I enjoyed in the '90s and absolutely pity my younger self for such a deficiency in his musical diet.

So I thought that I'd take a week off our normal soundtrack reviews to bring to you my current top six favorite soundtracks. This list comes with the caveat that it's always subject to future changes as I continue to listen through more soundtracks for this column.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: A few of my favorite MMO soundtracks

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: A few of my favorite MMO soundtracks originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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dragon's prophet video
Runewaker's follow-up to Runes of Magic, Dragon's Prophet, promises to "evolutionize" MMOs. Now that you've been mortally wounded by a pun, perhaps you want to spend your last few minutes on this earth by watching a dev interview about this upcoming fantasy title?

Dragon's Prophet's core feature is bonding players with dragons as they go about adventuring. Dragons can be ridden as mounts, leveled up, and used as fighting companions. But that's not all! If you order now in the next 10 minutes, your dragon will be available for production and gathering tasks. Operators are standing by!

The seven-minute video is a good primer to the world of Dragon's Prophet, and it's all yours after the break.

[Thanks to Hirundo for the tip!]

Continue reading Get a video overview of Dragon's Prophet right here, right now

MassivelyGet a video overview of Dragon's Prophet right here, right now originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jukebox Heroes Reader requests
One of my favorite parts of doing this column is reading your comments every week. I've discovered that there are several other gamers who are passionate for this type of music and have plenty to say about these songs. There's a lot of memories that are triggered by these tunes as well, and I love hearing about them.

Unbeknownst to you but totally beknownst to me, I've been collecting comments regarding your favorite songs in the game's we've covered so far. My opinions on the best of every soundtrack isn't the be-all, end-all, after all. Sometimes you guys and gals show me a song that I overlooked or perhaps didn't appreciate the first time I heard it.

So what I've decided to do is turn your favorite songs into an occasional column, and this here is the first. Instead of focusing on just one MMO this week, we'll be looking at six additional tracks from titles we've discussed over the past few months. If you were gnashing your teeth that I overlooked an MMO classic, then you might just be in luck today!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Reader requests

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Reader requests originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Perfect Ten Holiday shopping for the MMO gamer
With Thanksgiving almost under wraps in the states (Canada got an earlier patch of Thanksgiving because the devs love that country), the starter pistol is about to go off for the busiest shopping season of the year. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and oh-crap-it's-Christmas-Eve-and-only-a-gas-station-is-open are all shopping experiences ahead on the calendar, but perhaps the most challenging experience is that of buying the perfect gift for an MMO gamer.

Sure, you could just phone it in and buy a time card, some cash shop points, a subscription or two, or even a Prima strategy guide if you really hated the person, but a proper MMO gift goes beyond that. For a great gift, you need to put in some effort and actually research the field... or just be lazy and use my following guide. We both know which option you're going to choose.

So while you slowly digest that turkey and moan about having to waddle your butt down to Best Buy at 3:00 a.m., why not allow me to help you with a few shopping suggestions? For this list, I wanted to focus on game-specific merchandise that isn't t-shirts, game cards, or CafePress coffee mugs. I mean, this shirt is the bomb and all, but we can do better!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Holiday shopping for the MMO gamer

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Holiday shopping for the MMO gamer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Stream Team RUSH edition, November 1218, 2012
I can't help it... I have Rush on the brain. Not even Sandy and her airport-closing ways could detour me from heading out to see what is possibly the greatest musical trio of all time (I say possibly because I didn't personally hear what was going on back during Aristotle's time!). Anyone who knows me knows I live, breathe, and think music. And that is great music. It didn't matter that my extremities went numb from the cold; it was worth every minute. The energy, the interaction -- nothing can beat that!

It's kind of like Massively TV! Of course the show itself is great, but being there live to watch the antics of The Stream Team and be a part of the audience interaction can't be matched. So to make sure you don't miss any shows, here's the schedule for this week. And to fill that time in between performances, there is also a handy guide for the previous week! Weigh in with your opinion about what music you prefer and what you'd add to games.

Continue reading The Stream Team: RUSH edition, November 12 - 18, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: RUSH edition, November 12 - 18, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Runes of Magic screenshot
I first played Runes of Magic a long time ago, as in years. In fact, I played it a bit during beta and right after release. I have a fond memory of being on a voice program with our very own Shawn Schuster and a few other podcasters and bloggers as we ran around playing. I named my character something to do with Slayer, or perhaps that was Shawn, and we had a pretty good time. It was, at the time, one of the higher-quality free-to-play titles out there.

Since then the game has undergone many, many changes -- too many changes to recap here. If you really want a summary of the game over the past few years, check out our own Jeremy Stratton's former column, Lost Pages of Taborea. I had Jeremy join me for my last night of gameplay before writing this piece to help clear up some confusion I had about the game.

And for some powerelveling. Oh yes, powerleveling.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Runes of Magic

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Runes of Magic originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopdiamondsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegameforgegameforge-berlingamersfirsthands-onjeremy-strattonlivestreammassively-tvrise-and-shinyromrubiesrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentstreamtaboreataikodomtwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 11 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Election edition, November 5 - 11, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/the-stream-team-election-edition-november-5-11-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/the-stream-team-election-edition-november-5-11-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/the-stream-team-election-edition-november-5-11-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team November 511, 2012
With all the mud-slinging, subterfuge, switching sides, terrible tantrums, and outright fights, who wouldn't want to get away to find some relative peace... and that's just from your groupmates! So take some time to escape the chaos of grouping and chill by while watching a few of your favorite games being played by The Stream Team. You can tune in to Massively TV and watch someone else deal with loot ninjas, drama queens, and other assorted unsavory characters!

And in keeping with the important spirit of the week, don't forget to do your Massively duty and visit the polls! We have one for you after the break.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Election edition, November 5 - 11, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Election edition, November 5 - 11, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Asheron's Callcharacter creation
Another week of this column makes me amazed at how yet another older title, this time Asheron's Call, got so much right and yet remains so under-appreciated. A lot of this dismissal of past MMOs comes from the simple fact that humans do not enjoy something they have seen before, at least not the same as they enjoyed it when they first found it. In other words, we loved games like Asheron's Call, but they have fallen out of favor because we have moved on to bigger, newer, shinier things. After all, most of us don't sit around a fire and swap stories for entertainment anymore; we watch television. Although, damn, a fire sounds nice doesn't it?

The warm feeling that I might feel from an evening swapping tales in front of the hearth is the same one I get from older titles like Asheron's Call. These elder titles have a charm built in, thanks to dated graphics that remind us of younger years and times of discovery.

But there's something else going on here. These older games, games like Asheron's Call, are still really good.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny revisit: Asheron's Call

MassivelyRise and Shiny revisit: Asheron's Call originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acAC-turbineasheronasherons-callbeau-hindmanclassic-mmof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogstergameforgehands-onlivestreammassively-tvOld-schoolrise-and-shinyromrunes-of-magicsandboxstreamturbineturbine-entertainmenttwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 04 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic previews Chrysalias Shadows patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/runes-of-magic-previews-chrysalias-shadows-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/runes-of-magic-previews-chrysalias-shadows-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/21/runes-of-magic-previews-chrysalias-shadows-patch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Runes of Magic previews Chrysalias Shadows patch
Dubbed the "Mysterious Land of the Elements," Chrysalia will be the next step for Runes of Magic adventurers. This strange region is set to open on September 25th, but Gameforge has a preview video to whet your appetite for the journey to come.

Chrysalia is dominated by strong elemental features, such as waterfalls and lava, and looks to be populated by many intelligent insect species. Some of these, like the Garon, are friendly, but others, like the Kulech, will spit acid in your face and slurp your insides for dinner. Or so we've heard.

Next Tuesday's patch will also introduce a new challenging instance to the game. Check out the flyby video after the jump and let us know what you think!

[Source: Gameforge press release]

Continue reading Runes of Magic previews Chrysalias Shadows patch

MassivelyRunes of Magic previews Chrysalias Shadows patch originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5.0.3Chrysalias-Shadowsf2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegameforgegameforge-berlinpatchpatch-5.0.3previewromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttaboreatrailervideoFri, 21 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Still got it]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/one-shots-still-got-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/one-shots-still-got-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/one-shots-still-got-it/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots
Runes of Magic was a F2P game before the cool kids joined the F2P party, but it's been a little neglected by MMO players. Massively reader Andrew wants us to know that it's got some spark left in it:
While Runes of Magic may be three years old, the graphics are still looking great. There's some awesome vistas in RoM that appear when you take the time to control+z your interface and look around. This shot is from Southern Janost Forest.
In fact, Andrew sent us two pics, and they're both behind the break along with a few more of your One Shots!

Continue reading One Shots: Still got it

MassivelyOne Shots: Still got it originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetback-to-betabetabiowarebrianna-royce-oneshotsbring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedcasualcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playfreedomfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegalleriesgallerygameforgegameforge-berlinglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterlucasartsncsoftone-shotsparagonparagon-studiospics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feesuperherosuperheroesswtortaboreathe-old-republictinyspecktorunlauncheninguser-submissionsSun, 09 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Beware the Bard edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/05/choose-my-adventure-beware-the-bard-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/05/choose-my-adventure-beware-the-bard-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/05/choose-my-adventure-beware-the-bard-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Choose My Adventure Beware the Bard edition
All the world's a game, and all the men and women are merely players.

Shakespeare was really onto something there, even if he flubbed a word a bit. Folks who try to deny their participation in games are just fooling themselves! What are games, after all, but progression in a given world? Some people are just so boring that they stick to only one world. We know better, though, don't we? We choose ours from a myriad of options! Or, as in this case, you Choose My Adventure.

I will admit, I have been in the wings, eagerly awaiting my next casting call. Twice now you've sent me on amazing adventures, and I've had a blast! And finally, it's my turn to take the stage again. So what will I star in this time? Will it be a military epic, a space adventure, or a flight of fantasy? My big comeback is in your hands!

Peruse the list below and follow your muse to choose which world I will spotlight for the next six weeks. Just be sure to have your vote in by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Sunday the 9th. And don't forget to stay tuned to the MV Guide over the coming weeks to watch the adventures unfold on Massively TV!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Beware the Bard edition

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Beware the Bard edition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jukebox Heroes Runes of Magic's soundtrack
Welcome back to Jukebox Heroes, the column that dares you to close your eyes and unplug your ears. Well, after you're done reading this opening, of course. So what's the greatest tragedy in modern musical history? Everyone has an answer to that, but mine will be, "How much Runes of Magic's score is overlooked because it's a free-to-play title."

Sure, the game shares enough DNA with World of Warcraft that the two titles can never marry or else they'll have inbred children, but RoM's soundtrack is anything but a clone of WoW's. Runes of Magic actually goes toe to toe with some of the greatest music I've ever heard in MMOs, and that's no exaggeration. I have to thank Massively's Jeremy Stratton for turning me on to this particular score.

According to a few accounts I've read, Runes of Magic's music is both cobbled together from tracks of other video games as well as original pieces composed specifically for this. I honestly don't care where the music comes from; I just care to turn my speakers all the way up and feel epic when it's playing.

So here we go with my absolute favorite tracks from Runes of Magic, minus a couple that I've shared on Massively before!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Runes of Magic's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Runes of Magic's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcomposercomposersf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicopinionromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtrackstaboreawarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 14 Aug 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: The indie edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/choose-my-adventure-the-indie-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Goonies screenshot, down here
It might be your time up there, but it's my time -- my time -- down here! For this latest edition of Choose My Adventure, I get to hand out a selection of odd little games for you to vote on, and then for the next month and change, I will stumble my way through the title. At your direction and with your help, of course. The trouble is that I have already played darn near everything. I've downloaded and tried so many games that I simply can't remember them all. So, what to do?

Well, I decided to give a mix of games a chance at several weeks coverage here on Massively. I picked out an assortment of browser games, independent titles, and lesser-known client-based MMOs. Hopefully you will steer me the right way, and if I am lucky, I won't even have a horrible time. I chose games that I know have a robust community in the hopes that plenty of voters will turn out. The key is to get the word out there, so if you have a favorite, go tell your community!

But first, click past the cut and vote on the game you would like to see me tackle for the next several weeks. Just don't expect to see triple-A games on the list!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: The indie edition

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: The indie edition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-quest-worldsallods-onlineankamaaq-worldsbeau-hindmanBigpointchoose-my-adventureClone-Wars-Adventurescmadrakensang-onlinefeaturedgpotatohands-onjeremy-strattonjunebudkingdom-of-loathingkolmabinogimilmoNexonnexon-americaopinionpollpollsreaders-choiceromancerunes-of-magicshawn-schusterSOESONYSony-Online-EntertainmentSquare-EnixvotevotingwakfuzentiaWed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Blender: Jeremy's unholy MMO concoction]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/mmo-blender-jeremys-unholy-mmo-concoction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/mmo-blender-jeremys-unholy-mmo-concoction/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/22/mmo-blender-jeremys-unholy-mmo-concoction/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

MMO Blender
Have you ever wished MMO developers could put away their checkbooks, pluck out the best bits of their respective MMOs, and weld them together to construct the megalopolis of MMOs? We do too! So today, we're launching a brand-new opinion column, MMO Blender, in which the Massively writers will mix and match their favorite features from existing MMOs for your amusement. But do our choices create a perfectly honed machine or a lumbering, speechless frankenstein of an MMO that deserves to be put out of its misery?

First up: Livestreamer extraordinaire and Contributing Editor Jeremy Stratton with a potent, sandboxy blend of Fallen Earth, EVE Online, Lord of the Rings Online, and more. Wet your whistle after the break and look for more MMO Blenders from the rest of our staff in the coming weeks!

Continue reading MMO Blender: Jeremy's unholy MMO concoction

MassivelyMMO Blender: Jeremy's unholy MMO concoction originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarmchair-game-designauction-housecastlleccpccp-gamescode-clubcraftingdecoratingdigdynamic-eventseconomyeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfallen-earthfantasyfavorite-mmofefeaturedfellowship-maneuversffa-pvpfrankengamefrankenmmofree-for-allfree-for-all-pvpfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivefurnitureg1game-designgame-mechanicsgamersfirstguild-wars-2gw2housinginternet-spaceshipsjeremy-strattonkeepslayout-editorlineagelineage-2lineage-iilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromechanicsmmo-blendermmo-mechanicsmmo-mix-tapemmo-mixologyncsoftopen-world-housingopinionplayer-housingplayer-vs-playerpost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fisiegesiege-warfaresiegessoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinetaboreatelonterraformterraformingturbineturbine-entertainmentvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwastelandsworld-eventswurmwurm-onlineFri, 22 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: MMO Jukebox]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/21/the-perfect-ten-mmo-jukebox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/21/the-perfect-ten-mmo-jukebox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/21/the-perfect-ten-mmo-jukebox/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten MMO Jukebox
Earlier this year, I got to expose my musically nerdy side to you all in a one-two shot of MMO theme song countdowns. The truth is that I'm just a huge sucker for video game music, and as such, I've collected a wide range of MMO scores to bolster my MP3 player.

I know that we players tend to be pretty vocal about turning off MMO music at some point, usually due to extreme repetition. Unfortunately, that seems to leave a bad association with this music in our minds, and I don't feel that reputation is deserved. MMO scores can be just as good -- if not better -- than their counterparts in film or other video games.

So I've decided that every so often I'm going to devote a full Perfect Ten to sharing my favorite MMO music. I'm always open to suggestions, of course, so if you know of a track that you feel really should be in the next list, send me an email or leave it in the comments!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: MMO Jukebox

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: MMO Jukebox originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jun 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Runes of Magic's Chapter V Fires of Shadowforge now live
Last week we got a preview of Runes of Magic's new Chapter V update at E3. Today you can join in the fun, as Runewaker and Frogster have officially released Fires of Shadowforge to the live servers.

The update raises the level cap to 72 and adds a new race (the Shadowforge Dwarves), two new classes (Champion and Warlock), and a new continent filled with quest and dungeon content. That's just the tip of the iceberg for Chapter V, too. The devs are planning to add new guild instances and buildings, new battlegrounds, dungeons, elite skills, world bosses, and more over the life of the update. Read all about it at the official Runes of Magic site.

[Source: Frogster press release]

MassivelyRunes of Magic's Chapter V: Fires of Shadowforge now live originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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E3 2012 Runes of Magic Chapter 5
Runes of Magic is only three years old, but the game has added an impressive amount of content for a free-to-play title. As we've reported previously, it's happening again on June 12th, when Frogster will add the Dwarven race, Warlock and Champion classes, and a few other goodies.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Frogster to talk about the new content at this year's E3. Will it be attractive to veteran players? Is it made specifically to attract new players? Read on to find out.

Continue reading E3 2012: Runes of Magic details chapter 5

MassivelyE3 2012: Runes of Magic details chapter 5 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Runes of Magic Chapter V sparks to life in a new trailer
Saying that it's on the "home stretch" leading up to the launch of Runes of Magic's next great content update, Frogster released a trailer highlighting the Shadowforge Dwarves from Chapter V. The trailer takes us through an abbreviated tale of how a fallen cadre of dwarves were set in stone for eons, only to come back to life once their curse was lifted.

The Shadowforge Dwarves are set to become the first new playable race in the game since its launch, and the third overall. Chapter V will also incorporate two additional classes, a new starting area, and several high-level zones and dungeons.

Excited about the Chapter V update? Set the following trailer on repeat and count down the hours until it releases on June 12th!

Continue reading Runes of Magic: Chapter V sparks to life in a new trailer

MassivelyRunes of Magic: Chapter V sparks to life in a new trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Runes Of Magic image
In just under two weeks, Runes of Magic players will be able to enjoy the fifth chapter of the free-to-play fantasy MMORPG. Last week we told you about the new race in Chapter V, the Shadowforge Dwarves. Today Frogster unveiled a new region along with a new high-level instance. Fires of Shadowforge also introduces the Warlock and Champion classes.

In the west of the new continent of Kolydia, the Ancient Kingdom of Rorazan opens up to adventurers. This hostile and unforgiving realm was destroyed by firestorms and is now inhabited only by mechanical golems, fire elementals, and spirits. Adventurers can also traverse the war-torn region of Chrysalia.

Dungeon-goers can experience Aeternal Circle, a new high-level instance with two different difficulty settings. Just be sure to take a sharp mind as well as a sharp sword along; the only way to advance to the next area after defeating each boss is to solve a puzzle.

[Source: Frogster press release]

MassivelyRunes of Magic: Chapter V to bring new lands and high-level instance originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aeternal-Circlechapter-fivechapter-VChrysaliaexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactiveinstancesKingdom-of-Rorazannew-classesnew-raceromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentshadowforge-dwarvestaboreaFri, 01 Jun 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Take it back]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/choose-my-adventure-take-it-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/choose-my-adventure-take-it-back/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/choose-my-adventure-take-it-back/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Next time, I might do a Mega Man riff.
Film trilogies rarely work out well. Either they're a case of a successful film spawning a successful sequel that leads into a try at a third film or they're a story stretched and hyped into unrecognizable shapes after several years. As a result, most third installments vary between "depends on personal taste" and "just plain bad." But here we are on my third run through Choose My Adventure, which means that for better or worse I'm looking at a trilogy.

Let's hope this turns out slightly better than history might indicate.

Beneath the cut are our nine candidates for the next game on the block, complete with explanations about why I've chosen those titles instead of other possibilities. Go ahead and read through the possibilities, then vote for your choice by Saturday if you want to be counted! Next week, tune in for a much more opinionated column as we kick off part three. And yes, the bonus polls are back.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Take it back

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Take it back originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Runes of Magic - Shadowforge dwarfRunes of Magic's Chapter V is on the way, and along with several new features, it's bringing a whole lot of dwarven flavor to the game's sprawling fantasy world.

The Shadowforge Dwarves are the game's latest race, and players who choose to roll one will begin their adventures in the new Yrvandis Hollows starting area. In addition to the usual newbie zone accoutrements, the area features an instance called the Outskirts of Taffrock that Frogster describes as "particularly challenging." Players will face off against a final boss known as Dark Gargoylem, along with his horde of aggressive spirits that have hunkered down in the lower levels of the ancient dwarven hall.

Runes of Magic is a free-to-play fantasy title developed by Runewaker and published by Frogster. The Fires of Shadowforge update releases June 12th.

[Source: Frogster press release]

MassivelyRunes of Magic's Fires of Shadowforge update features new race, starting zone originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Runes of Magic
Runes of Magic is counting down the days until its next major update, Chapter V: Fires of Shadowforge, and Frogster is throwing five exciting events to pep up its playerbase during the wait. The Big Five, as the company is calling it, is currently at the halfway mark as its third event that will take place over the holiday weekend.

From May 25th through May 29th, Runes of Magic players can visit the Helping Hands in one of several locations in the game to get an incredible buff. This two-hour buff will boost experience, talent point, and rare loot gain for all who accept it. Players can receive the buff once a day for the duration of the event.

The highlight of Chapter V is most definitely the addition of a pair of new classes: the Champion and the Warlock. Also coming with Chapter V are the playable Shadowforge Dwarves, a new starter zone, and additional high-level instances. The update will release on June 12th.

MassivelyRunes of Magic weekend event psyches players up for Chapter V originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big-fivebig-five-eventbuffchampionchapter-5chapter-veventf2pfantasyfires-of-shadowforgefree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivein-game-eventplayer-buffromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentShadowforge-Dwarvestaboreathe-big-fivewarlockThu, 24 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic shows off the new Champion and Warlock]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/runes-of-magic-shows-off-the-new-champion-and-warlock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/runes-of-magic-shows-off-the-new-champion-and-warlock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/runes-of-magic-shows-off-the-new-champion-and-warlock/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Now, if he transformed into a plane, that would be something.
New classes are always exciting. In a game with an established set of abilities and character options, the chance to take a different option helps keep the game engaging and surprising. That's no doubt part of the rationale behind Runes of Magic's two new classes, the Champion and the Warlock. But they're also meant to show off the ingenuity and cleverness of the Dwarves, and in a new preview of these two classes, it becomes clear just how much both will bring to the table.

The Warlock is an arcane caster who has delved into the knowledge of the Shadowforge Dwarves, allowing him to act as either a damage dealer or a support character as the situation warrants. Champions are masters of pseudo-mystical forge techniques, with the Champion ultimately being capable of transforming into a special Runic Robot form for increased damage and durability. There are only a few more weeks until the game's next major update, and then players will get to try out the new hybrid classes for themselves.

MassivelyRunes of Magic shows off the new Champion and Warlock originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championclassescoming-patchesf2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivehybridhybrid-classesmajor-patchesnew-classespatchespreviewpreviewsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttaboreawarlockWed, 16 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/free-for-all-new-browser-based-converts-shine-light-on-issues/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Fiesta Social screenshot
I recently threw out a prediction that within five years, most of our MMO content will be coming through our browsers. To be more specific, I think that most players in the United States will be enjoying their favorite MMOs within a browser. That can mean several things but does not refer to games like Free Realms, a client-based game that is only signed-into at the browser level. As with any discussion about genres, mechanics or styles in the MMO world, I have to be very specific.

It's pretty likely that a very large percentage of the US playerbase is already playing browser-based games. Look at the American market for games like RuneScape, Battlestar Galactica Online, Club Penguin, Drakensang Online, Evony, and Ministry of War and you might just find millions of players.

Next we need to consider that there are more games coming into the browser market. This new batch is essentially a group of standard, client-based MMOs that are porting themselves to the browser. I tend to be a little skeptical about some of these in the short-term, for several reasons.

Continue reading Free for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues

MassivelyFree for All: New browser-based converts shine light on issues originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8realmsbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedclub-penguindrakensang-onlineevonyf2pfeaturedffafiesta-onlinefiesta-socialfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playfreemiumftpillyriadjagexministry-of-waropinionrunes-of-magicrunescapetibiavelvet-ropeWed, 25 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play Runes of Magic in your browser (if you're in Europe)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/play-runes-of-magic-in-your-browser-if-youre-in-europe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/play-runes-of-magic-in-your-browser-if-youre-in-europe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/play-runes-of-magic-in-your-browser-if-youre-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Runes of Magic - spellcaster and pet
Want to play Runes of Magic in your browser? Now you can, thanks to the fruits of a partnership between Frogster and Kalydo. Frogster tells us that "game quality is not compromised in the new version, and Runes of Magic can now be played on any PC that meets the technical requirements without having to download the full client."

It usually takes about 30 seconds of streaming to reach RoM's main menu and character creation interface. Also of note is the fact that the browser version runs on the same servers as the client version, so you'll still have access to all of your friends and familiars.

The bad news is that the browser version is only available in Europe as of today. We'll update you as soon as we hear about Frogster's plans for additional markets.

[Source: Frogster press release]

MassivelyPlay Runes of Magic in your browser (if you're in Europe) originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-runes-of-magicf2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivekalydoromrunes-of-magicrunes-of-magic-browser-basedrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttaboreaTue, 24 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/massivelys-easter-event-roundup-2012-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Bunnies at church
Whether you're an Easter traditionalist or you simply need an excuse to eat a chocolate bunny, it's that time of year again. It's also time for a few of our favorite MMO devs to don their silly hats and introduce all manner of egg hunts and contests into games like RuneScape, Runes of Magic, and World of Warcraft.

That's just the tip of the Easter event iceberg; you'll find several more festively inclined titles in our roundup after the cut. Before you hop on over, have a look at the two bunnies above and repeat after us: d'awww.

Continue reading Massively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition

MassivelyMassively's Easter event roundup: 2012 edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoactivisionanetarenanetatlanticaatlantica-onlineblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmodragon-nesteastereaster-2012easter-eventseaster-roundupeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieventseverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactiveguild-warsgwholiday-roundupin-game-eventsjagexjagex-games-studioncsoftnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentnexon-korearomrounduprsrunes-of-magicrunescaperunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxscarlet-legacysoesonysony-online-entertainmenttaboreatactical-mmovindictuswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 07 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 194: Bookah bookah!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/massively-speaking-episode-194-bookah-bookah/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/massively-speaking-episode-194-bookah-bookah/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/massively-speaking-episode-194-bookah-bookah/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Vanguard
Massively Speaking Episode 194 welcomes aboard resident Star Trek Online expert Terilynn Shull to talk about Tribbles and bits and why Star Trek doesn't have more "The Fly" incidents involving the transporter and local flora or fauna. Captain Archer would have been vastly improved by beaming him into a badger.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. 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.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 194: Bookah bookah!

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 194: Bookah bookah! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbrantbrianna-royceccpccp-gamesend-of-nationseonf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegothicguild-wars-2gw2horrorhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmmortsncsoftopinionpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespodcastpodcastingpodcastsromrtsrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentsupernaturaltaboreatelontriontrion-worldsvampirevampiresvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwarwhite-wolfwodworld-of-darknessTue, 27 Mar 2012 13:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 194Massively.com Staff01:05:44podcasts<![CDATA[Runes of Magic Chapter 5 features new race, two new classes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/runes-of-magic-chapter-5-features-new-race-two-new-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/runes-of-magic-chapter-5-features-new-race-two-new-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/runes-of-magic-chapter-5-features-new-race-two-new-classes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Runes of Magic - Fires of Shadowforge logo
Frogster is prepping for the next chapter in its Runes of Magic saga, and the company says it's going to be a doozy. Chapter 5 is called Fires of Shadowforge, and not only will it bring the requisite new zones, dungeons, and quests, but players will also have access to a new race and two new classes.

The Shadowforge Dwarves have been hidden beneath the ground of Taborea for some time now, perfecting their dark arts and blacksmithing skills as well as founding a kingdom in the continent's network of caves. Thus far Frogster is remaining coy about the gameplay associated with the new race and the two new arcane-based classes (the Sorcerer and the Champion), but the company says it will publish skill info and other details in the coming weeks.

[Source: Frogster press release]

MassivelyRunes of Magic Chapter 5 features new race, two new classes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championexpansionf2pfantasyfires-of-shadowforgefree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactiveromrunes-of-magicrunes-of-magic-dwarvesrunes-of-magic-new-classesrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentshadowforge-dwarvessorcerertaboreaFri, 23 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: The hidden perils of Guild Wars 2's microtransactions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-soapbox-the-hidden-perils-of-guild-wars-2s-microtransactio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-soapbox-the-hidden-perils-of-guild-wars-2s-microtransactio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-soapbox-the-hidden-perils-of-guild-wars-2s-microtransactio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 screenshot
Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column.

The ArenaNet post about microtransactions in Guild Wars 2 reveals that the "gems" currency will be bought with real money and be available for purchase with in-game gold in GW2. But people seem to have forgetten that Runes of Magic's cash shop operated this way three years ago. I've been playing RoM since closed beta, and the cash shop is one of the reasons RoM is so different from other F2P MMOs of its era.

Frogster eventually removed the ability to buy diamonds with gold because of fraud, so I'm curious to see how ArenaNet handles that issue. My time in RoM has shown me that there are other issues involved here, issues of security, players gaming the system, botting, and pay-to-win debates. In other words, there's more at stake here than whether cash shops sell gear or items toward gaining power.

Continue reading The Soapbox: The hidden perils of Guild Wars 2's microtransactions

MassivelyThe Soapbox: The hidden perils of Guild Wars 2's microtransactions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetauction houseauction-housecash-shopdiamondseditorialf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegemsguild-wars-2gw2item-shopjeremy-strattonmicro-transactionsmicrotransactionsncsoftop-edopinionpay-to-winrantrantsreal-money-tradingrmtromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentselling-powersoapboxtaboreathe-soapboxWed, 21 Mar 2012 15:30:00 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[Previously on MV TV: The week of February 11th, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-11th-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-11th-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-11th-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MV TV logo
It's time again to recap the best moments from the past week of livestreaming. Each week Massively hosts several livestreams and chats that showcase your favorite titles! Keep an eye on the Massively TV Guide so that you never miss a single event. We show off a large variety of different games and boast quite a few different personalities as well!

This week we had some Guild Wars goodness, house construction in RuneScape, more APB: Reloaded action on Tboo Thursday, a bit of Arcane Tranmuting in Runes of Magic with Jeremy, an explanation of magic in Ryzom with yours truly, and some Imp-ownage by Dylan in Star Wars: The Old Republic. And Adventure Mike returns with some Guild Wars and Nexus: Kingdom of the Winds streaming!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of February 11th, 2012

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of February 11th, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbapb-reloadedbeau-hindmanBioWarefeaturedgamersfirstglobal-agendaHighResjagexLiveStreammvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvrunes-of-magicrunescapeRyzomstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamingswtortbootwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 19 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: February 13-19, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/mv-guide-february-13-19-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/mv-guide-february-13-19-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/mv-guide-february-13-19-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Runes of Magic
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: February 13-19, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: February 13-19, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanall-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedFiestaglitchguild-warsheroes-of-newerthlivestreamlivestreamingmv-guideNexus: The Kingdom of the Windsrunes-of-magicrunescaperyzomsecond-lifestar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorMon, 13 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: January 30-February 5, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/mv-guide-january-30-february-5-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/mv-guide-january-30-february-5-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/mv-guide-january-30-february-5-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Runes of Magic
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: January 30-February 5, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: January 30-February 5, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardall-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameall-points-bulletin-reloadedanetapbapb-eaapb-gameapb-reloadedarenanetarenanet-guild-warsatomic-bluebiowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtorblizzardccpccp-eveccp-gamesd3dc-universe-onlinedcuodiablo-3diablo-iiidiiieaelectronic-artseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefrogsterfrogster-runes-of-magicglitchglobal-agendaglobal-agenda-hi-rezguild-warsguildwarsgwhi-rezhi-rez-global-agendahi-rez-stdioes-global-agendahi-rez-studiosjagexliden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslivestreamlivestreaminglucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgmv-guidemv-tvncsoftplaneshiftromrunes-of-magicrunescaperyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-old-republictiny-specktiny-speck-glitchvirtual-worldMon, 30 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part two)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
The last time on the Perfect Ten, disaster struck the good ship Poseidon and the surviving readers were running out of air as they tried to escape the flipped-over vessel. Also, we were counting down the top 20 MMO themes, but that's of small consolation to the soon-to-be bereaved friends and families, don't you think?

Because we play these games extensively, it's not uncommon for MMO music -- and themes -- to become vilified by the sheer number of times we've heard them. That's a little unfair to a three-minute piece of soundtrack that slaves every day to feed his wife and kids, doing the best he can in a trying situation. So perhaps we can put aside melodic oversaturation to look at these tracks anew, shall we?

With half of them out of the way, it's time to look into the elite of the elite: the 10 best MMO themes of all time. According to me. A guy you don't know. You've got goosebumps, don't you?

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part two)

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part two) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acallodsallods-onlineasherons-calleqeq2everquesteverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedgranado-espadaguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2jeremy-soulelistmusicperfect-tenromrunes-of-magicscorestar-trek-onlinestosword-of-the-new-worldthe-perfect-tenthemetheme-musictitle-themeturbineultima-onlineuoworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 26 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: January 23-29, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/mv-guide-january-23-29-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/mv-guide-january-23-29-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/mv-guide-january-23-29-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively TV.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During our streamed events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, streaming is subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's on this week's schedule!

Continue reading MV Guide: January 23-29, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: January 23-29, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetarenanet-guild-warsbiowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtorbrowser-basedccpccp-eveccp-gamesdisneydisneys-toontowneaelectronic-artseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-romglitchglobal-agendaglobal-agenda-hi-rezguild-warsguildwarsgwhi-rezhi-rez-global-agendahi-rez-stdioes-global-agendahi-rez-studiosjagexjagex-game-studiosjagex-runescapeliden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslivestreamlivestreaminglucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgluvinia-onlinemassively-livestreammassively-tvmv-guidemv-tvoutsparkromrunes-of-magicrunescaperyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoesonySony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-old-republictiny-specktoontownurban-rivalsvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldMon, 23 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: The sequel!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/choose-my-adventure-the-sequel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/choose-my-adventure-the-sequel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/choose-my-adventure-the-sequel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Here I go, here I go, here I go again. Girls, what's my weakness? MMOs!
When I was halfway through my tenure on Choose My Adventure, I had already made it clear that I wanted to come back around for another pass. After all, I had a grand time in Warhammer Online, and I wanted to see what would happen with another run through the gauntlet. I hadn't expected it would be quite so soon, but here we are: It's time for a sequel adventure.

And as we all know, sequels have to be bigger. They have to be louder. And they need a bigger budget.

We've got nine games listed past the cut, all candidates for my play for the next several weeks. Some of these games are returning old favorites, and some of them are new to the cut, but all of them should provide for some interesting adventures. So check out the descriptions, make your vote before 11:59 p.m. EST on January 21st, and tune in next week when we kick this sequel off properly.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: The sequel!

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: The sequel! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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