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[Warhammer's 1.4.6 patch brings RvR and scenario changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/warhammers-1-4-6-patch-brings-rvr-and-scenario-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/warhammers-1-4-6-patch-brings-rvr-and-scenario-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/18/warhammers-1-4-6-patch-brings-rvr-and-scenario-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Warhammer Online - 1.4.6 patch
There's a new patch on Warhammer's public test server. The 1.4.6 update is designed to tweak both realm vs. realm and scenario PvP. In terms of RvR, one of the biggest changes is the shift from multiple city invasion instances to a single instance. The instance will support 60 players from each realm -- 120 total. "Once that number is reached, no further reinforcements will be allowed," according to the update notes on the WAR website.

Scenario brackets are also being altered. Whereas the old system grouped players into tiers based on character level, the new mechanic uses both levels and renown rank. Players from level one to 15 go into bracket one, while players of renown ranks zero to 69 and 70 to 100 go into brackets two and three, respectively.

[Edit: Clarified 120 total players in the instance]

MassivelyWarhammer's 1.4.6 patch brings RvR and scenario changes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4.6-patcheaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasymythicmythic-entertainmentpvprvrscenarioswarwar-1.4.6warhammerwarhammer-1.4.6warhammer-onlineFri, 18 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online releases patch 1.4.5 highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/warhammer-online-releases-patch-1-4-5-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/warhammer-online-releases-patch-1-4-5-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/warhammer-online-releases-patch-1-4-5-highlights/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Inevitable City at peak hours.
Despite Mythic Entertainment's recent winnowing of the Warhammer Online servers -- bringing them down from four servers to a measly pair -- the company is still hard at work developing patches for the RvR-based title. Patch 1.4.5 will be hitting the live servers tomorrow, January 31st, and it brings a number of interesting changes and also ushers in the return of fortresses, which should be good news for open RvR fans.

With the recent Skaven invasion, a number of relics have been found in myriad underground tunnels dug below the game's fortresses. Players will be charged with guarding their faction's relics while attempting to purloin those of the enemy. The Grovod Cavern scenario is also making a return, allowing two teams of 12 players to duke it out in the crumbling cave. But this time, there's a twist: Players will be taking control of two teams of Skaven; hilarity will ensue. To top it all off, 1.4.5 is bringing fortresses back into play (after they were removed some time ago), which should hopefully encourage players to head back into the open RvR lakes for fun and profit. For the full details, just head on over to the Warhammer Online official site.

MassivelyWarhammer Online releases patch 1.4.5 highlights originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4.5eaea-mythicelectronic-artsf2pfortressfortressesfree-to-playgrovod-cavernmythicmythic-entertainmentopen-realm-vs-realmopen-rvrorvrpatchpatch-1.4.5patchesplayer-vs-playerpvpscenarioscenariosskavenupdateupdateswarwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewhoMon, 30 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wurm's epic cluster coming October 28th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/wurms-epic-cluster-coming-october-28th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/wurms-epic-cluster-coming-october-28th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/wurms-epic-cluster-coming-october-28th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wurm Online - moon shot
Onetwofree's latest news blurb features some good news for fans of the the firm's long-running Wurm Online sandbox MMO. The game's new epic cluster is officially set to debut on October 28th, and lead developer Rolf Jansson is among those psyched about the launch date. "The epic code is something I've been working on for several years, and it feels really good to finally release it," he says.

Epic's aim is to "provide the players with a full circle of purpose and something really big to strive for," according to the Wurm website. The cluster features warring gods duking it out on the moon of Valrei, and players who complete missions (and multi-mission arcs called scenarios) will set dramatic events in motion.

What kinds of dramatic events? The release mentions terraforming events tied to volcanoes as well as the chance for players to become demigods and possibly even full deities complete with their own religion and a stake in the celestial battle royal.

MassivelyWurm's epic cluster coming October 28th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epicepic-clusterfantasymission-arcsmissionsonetwofreeonetwofree-abplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentpress-releaserolf-janssonsandboxscenarioswurmwurm-onlineTue, 04 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online Patch 1.4.4 goes live this afternoon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/warhammer-online-patch-1-4-4-goes-live-this-afternoon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/warhammer-online-patch-1-4-4-goes-live-this-afternoon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/warhammer-online-patch-1-4-4-goes-live-this-afternoon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Warhammer Online - humans
Warhammer Online's latest patch is here, and it's just in time for the fantasy title's third anniversary week. Well, technically the 1.4.4 patch isn't here yet, as the servers are still down and scheduled to rez at approximately 1:30 p.m. EDT today.

The new patch introduces the Wild Hunt live event, which allows players the chance to "test their skills tracking and slaying fierce animals, collecting sacred pelts, and sighting the elusive White Stag." There's also an opportunity to earn event influence and participate in the Curse of Kurnous public quest.

Mythic has also tweaked the RvR keep defense mechanics, introduced new vanity pet packs, and shifted the scenario lineup. Finally, you can vote for the next batch of scenarios via the Dev Discussions forum on the official WAR website.

MassivelyWarhammer Online Patch 1.4.4 goes live this afternoon originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4.41.4.4-patchbioware-mythicea-mythicfantasylive-eventsmythicMythic-Entertainmentpatch-1.4.4public-questsscenariosWARwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewild-huntwild-hunt-live-eventTue, 13 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DCUO's Fight for the Light pack available today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/dcuos-fight-for-the-light-pack-available-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/dcuos-fight-for-the-light-pack-available-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/06/dcuos-fight-for-the-light-pack-available-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - Green Lantern
Last week we told you about Sony Online Entertainment's decision to distribute its latest DC Universe Online DLC package for free. Today's the big day for current DCUO customers and Green Lantern fans as the Fight for the Light content is officially ready for prime time.

The new stuff includes the game's seventh power set (light) and the ability to join either the Green Lantern or Sinestro Corps "while helping to restore balance to the universe." If rubbing elbows with famous DC luminaries doesn't do it for you, there's also the new scenario content. Players can partake of various action-heavy excursions into locales like S.T.A.R. Labs, Coast City, and Sciencells Prison. More info is available at the official DCUO website.

MassivelyDCUO's Fight for the Light pack available today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packcoast-citycontent-packfight-for-the-lightgreen-lanternlantern-corpspress-releasescenarioesscenariossciencells-prisonsinestrosoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-labssuperheroTue, 06 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Power play: Warhammer Online's 1.4.2 patch improves Tier 4 [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/power-play-warhammer-onlines-1-4-2-patch-improves-tier-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/power-play-warhammer-onlines-1-4-2-patch-improves-tier-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/power-play-warhammer-onlines-1-4-2-patch-improves-tier-4/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's been a quiet month or so following Warhammer Online's 1.4.1 patch, so it's a relief to see Mythic swinging back into action with the sequel: patch 1.4.2. The servers are coming down this morning and should be back up and ready for action by 1:00 p.m. EDT.

According to the patch highlights, patch 1.4.2's main focus will be on improving WAR's Tier 4 RvR combat. Power levels and power gaps are due for a tune up, and Mythic claims to have taken in a lot of feedback about the end game in order to make these changes.

As it's done in the past, Mythic is changing the scenario lineup for this new update, temporarily retiring some of these PvP instances while bringing others back online. The patch will also introduce a couple additional vanity pets, including the powder monkey and imp skeleton, which can be purchased via the EA Store. Some of these pets give you 5% additional gold when you loot corpses, making them very desirable indeed.

[Update: Mythic has posted the full 1.4.1 patch notes for your perusal!]

MassivelyPower play: Warhammer Online's 1.4.2 patch improves Tier 4 [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4.11.4.2ea-mythicend-gameimp-skeletonmythicpatchpatch-1.4.2powder-monkeypvprvrscenariostier-4updatevanity-petswarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineTue, 19 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR shakes up the world with patch 1.4.1]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/war-shakes-up-the-world-with-patch-1-4-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/war-shakes-up-the-world-with-patch-1-4-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/war-shakes-up-the-world-with-patch-1-4-1/#commentsFiled under: , ,

After a few weeks in testing, Warhammer Online's 1.4.1 patch has hit the live servers today. Topping off the list of improvements to the game is a brand-new claim window, which was designed to handle the various account entitlements that players have accrued. This interface now replaces the in-game mail system as a way to deliver the special goodies that players have earned or purchased over the years.

Patch 1.4.1 is also aiming at shaking up the game with two major changes to the status quo. Several PvP armor sets are now much easier to attain, and in many instances they can be purchased at a lower level than before. This means that players will find themselves better-equipped to participate in the brutal hand-to-hand combat that the game offers.

WAR is also rotating its scenario lineup: Some scenarios have been called out of retirement, some have changed tiers, and some are being put in mothballs for the time being.

You can read the full 1.4.1 patch notes over at Warhammer Online.

MassivelyWAR shakes up the world with patch 1.4.1 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4.1account-entitlementsarmor-setsclaim-windowea-mythicmythicpatchpatch-1.4.1pvppvp-armor-setsrenown-ranksscenarioscenariosupdatewarwarhammer-onlineTue, 01 Mar 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online bringing 1.4.1 out for testing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/warhammer-online-bringing-1-4-1-out-for-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/warhammer-online-bringing-1-4-1-out-for-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/warhammer-online-bringing-1-4-1-out-for-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Scenarios have formed one of the PvP cornerstones for Warhammer Online, leading to a large-scale overhaul of Scenarios several months ago. Certain Scenarios were placed on a weekend rotation, while others were permanently available at different level bands for players to enjoy. Patch 1.4.1, which is due to hit the public test server, Warpstone, tomorrow, is making some alterations to which Scenarios may be played at all times, with some cycling into a permanent slot and others entering retirement for a time.

While the shifting lineup is certainly one of the big elements of the patch, it's not the only one. Balance changes have been made for several Skaven abilities, including several overhauls for the Packmaster class. A number of item sets have had their Renown Rank requirements lowered, as well, to give players easier access to the items; there has been a new set added to fill the newly created gap between the Warlord and Sovereign sets. Warhammer Online players can examine the current patch notes and take part in the testing starting tomorrow.

MassivelyWarhammer Online bringing 1.4.1 out for testing originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancebalance-changesbioware-mythicea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentpatchpatchesrvrscenariosskavenupdateswarwar-eawar-patch-1.4.1warhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eaTue, 15 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warfronts star in the RIFT beta 4 patch notes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/warfronts-star-in-the-rift-beta-4-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/warfronts-star-in-the-rift-beta-4-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/warfronts-star-in-the-rift-beta-4-patch-notes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As you may or may not have heard, Trion Worlds is unleashing the fourth RIFT beta event today, an event that spans the entire weekend. And as Uncle Ben used to tell us, with great beta events come great patch notes -- so what do players have to look forward to with this update?

The most significant change to RIFT's beta is the increase of the level cap -- to 27 -- and the unlocking of the Stonefield and Gloamwood zones. In the prior three events, players were limited to a maximum of level 20 and confined to the two starter areas. This round, players looking for more PvE dungeon goodness should enjoy the Darkening Deeps and Deepstrike Mines, while PvPers will rejoice at the inclusion of Warfronts (Black Garden for level 10 and above, The Codex for level 20 and above). Warfronts are like World of Warcraft's battlegrounds or Warhammer Online's scenarios -- instanced PvP areas where (hopefully) evenly matched teams can go at it under special conditions.

There are several quality-of-life improvements rolled into this patch as well. The skill soft queue has been upgraded to a full next ability queue, more hotbars are available, and many of the souls are getting tweaked. You can read the full patch notes here.

MassivelyWarfronts star in the RIFT beta 4 patch notes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundsbetabeta-4beta-eventbeta-event-4black-gardenclosed-betadarkening-deepsdeepstrike-minesgloamwoodhotbarspatchpatch-notesriftrift-planes-of-telarascenariosskill-queuestonefieldthe-codextriontrion-worldsuncle-benupdateupdate-noteswarwarfrontswarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 07 Jan 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: RvR packs, the "wait and see" edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/waging-war-rvr-packs-the-wait-and-see-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/waging-war-rvr-packs-the-wait-and-see-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/waging-war-rvr-packs-the-wait-and-see-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This week Waging WAR rides the double rainbow of gameplay customization via downloadable content and takes a cursory glance at the RvR packs being teased by the folks behind the development of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. Let's follow along and see what Greg can unleash this time.

It is difficult to talk about the future of WAR right now. Not because it doesn't have a future, but because the availability of information regarding it is not exactly easy to find. Actually, information on the future of WAR is all but non-existent, surrounded by controversy on all sides, and steeped in rumor, speculation, assumption and misinformation. The best I can put together is that we, as players, can look forward to some sort of set of three different "RvR Packs" allowing us to "customize" our gameplay experience moving forward. The packs have been called "Power," "Progression," and "Personality." What exactly each contains is a mystery, although the few talking points I was able to find regarding these RvR packs are speculatively disappointing at best. Although Carrie, Andy, and anyone else involved with the Mythic development team have said time and time again that they are not discussing moving toward the free-to-play business model, what they're proposing with these customization packs looks suspiciously like the item shop established by Turbine, implemented in Dungeons & Dragons Online and soon in Lord of the Rings Online as well. V.I.P. membership, anyone?

Although concrete information is scarce and difficult to find, let's take a look at the most commonly referenced points of interest after the break.

Continue reading Waging WAR: RvR packs, the "wait and see" edition

MassivelyWaging WAR: RvR packs, the "wait and see" edition originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-the-tower-of-eternityaion-tower-of-eternityandy-belfordbalaurBioWarebioware-eaBioware-MMObioware-mythicbioware-pointscarrie-gouskosddoddo-storeddo-unlimitedDLCdownloadable contentdownloadable-contentDownloadableContentDragon-AgeDragon-Age-OriginsDungeons-and-Dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineEAea-mythicf2pfeaturefeaturedfeaturesfree-to-playgames-daygames-day-2010games-workshopgamesday-ukLord of the Ringslord-of-the-rings-onlineLordOfTheRingsmass-effectmass-effect-2MassEffectmicro-transactionmicro-transactionsmonster-gamesmonster-playmythicmythic-eaMythic-Entertainmentrenownrenown-armorrenown-bonusrenown-caprenown-pointsrenown-rankrenown-rankingrvrrvr-packscenarioscenario-weaponsscenariosskaventurbineTurbine-Entertainmentvipwaging-warwarWarhammer-OnlineSat, 28 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[July letter available from Warhammer Online's executive producer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/july-letter-available-from-warhammer-onlines-executive-producer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/july-letter-available-from-warhammer-onlines-executive-producer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/july-letter-available-from-warhammer-onlines-executive-producer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Back when she was first placed in the position of Executive Producer for Warhammer Online, Carrie Gouskos promised to try for a letter every month. She's stayed true to that promise, and as the end of July approaches at breakneck speeds, there's a new letter for the fans. After a quick recap of the known news about the game (the testing of patch 1.3.6 and the European migration), there are several other updates, starting with the return of the Wild Hunt to the game with the coming patch.

The letter also contains the promise of a new 6v6 scenario for the Weekend Warfront rotation, citing the matchup as a popular format that needs more representation. We also get a hint of future plans to help encourage RvR whilst leveling, said plans involving new enemies with high XP values being added to the RvR lakes. There's also a promise of a rework to the mechanics of some of the ranged classes, a coda to the most recent letter which should have several points of interest for dedicated Warhammer Online fans.

MassivelyJuly letter available from Warhammer Online's executive producer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6v6carrie-gouskosea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsexecutive-producermatch-formatmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentopen-rvrprodcuers-letterpvppvp-mechanicsrotationrvrrvr-lakesscenario-formatscenarioswarwar-eawar-patch-1.3.6warhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eaweekend-warfrontwild-huntFri, 30 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waging WAR: Revisiting the new player experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/12/waging-war-revisiting-the-new-player-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/12/waging-war-revisiting-the-new-player-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/12/waging-war-revisiting-the-new-player-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Waging WAR moves a step backward this week to take a fresh look at the Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning new player experience. Greg gives us his take on what he thinks we can expect from the Endless Trial or a Re-enlistment subscription with a new character. He takes us through his experience over a few casual days of play and tells us about the leveling process, scenarios, RvR, twinking and more.

Lately, I have spent quite a bit of my time on my rank 40/70 Archmage, focusing on emblem collection and participating in the newly formatted Tier 4 city sieges. Earlier this week, as I considered topics for this weekend's column, I realized that it had been a while since I had experienced the low-level content. Conveniently enough, I was just starting to suffer a bit from healer's burn-out (thanklessly healing day after day can wear a person down), and decided I would take a break and tool around on a lowbie for some fresh kicks and giggles.

Continue reading Waging WAR: Revisiting the new player experience

MassivelyWaging WAR: Revisiting the new player experience originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archmagecommunityEAea-mythichunters-valemythicmythic-eaMythic-Entertainmentnew-player-experiencenordlandpublic-questsrvrrvr-city-siegesscenariostier-1twinktwinkingtwinkswaging-warWarhammerwarhammer-eaWarhammer-Onlinewarhammer-online-eawitch-elfSat, 12 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mytheon has both PvP and Co-Op on the menu]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/mytheon-has-both-pvp-and-co-op-on-the-menu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/mytheon-has-both-pvp-and-co-op-on-the-menu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/mytheon-has-both-pvp-and-co-op-on-the-menu/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mytheon wants to know: what's your poison? Do you want a tall glass of beatdown with live players, or a cooperative shot of teamwork in a PvE environment? We haven't heard a lot about this title over the past year, but Petroglyph is increasing the game's profile as launch looms for this "online multiplayer action RPG." As the beta period winds to a close, the devs are excited to reveal the game's two primary modes: PvP and Co-Op play.

Mytheon appears to lean toward PvP, as Petroglyph emphasizes both the PvP arenas and PvP scenarios. The arenas -- such as the Ring of Destiny and Olympus -- are ranked, and come in either 1v1 or 2v2 varieties. If 4v4 is more your style, then head on over to one of their three PvP scenarios, such as the Forest of Despair. However, Co-Op mode is available for a different flavor of gameplay, challenging two teams of players to compete against each other in a PvE setting until there's only one victor, who then fights a unique scenario boss. All of these modes offer experience and loot as a matter of course.

Producer Randy King encourages players to find their own style: "Giving players the ability to group together, or play against each other was only the start. It was important to us to use the rich setting of Greek mythology to provide these incredible scenarios that they can experience with others."

MassivelyMytheon has both PvP and Co-Op on the menu originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaco-opmytheonpetroglyphpvepvprandy-kingrankingscenariosTue, 06 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online Producer's Letter teases 1.3.5 improvements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/warhammer-online-producers-letter-teases-1-3-5-improvements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/warhammer-online-producers-letter-teases-1-3-5-improvements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/warhammer-online-producers-letter-teases-1-3-5-improvements/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As March winds down to a close, the WAR continues -- and Mythic producer Carrie Gouskos steps up to rally the troops behind a few juicy, if tantalizingly vague, quality of life improvements coming in the 1.3.5 patch. Take my hand, Dorothy, for it's dyes, scenarios, Marauders and minimaps, oh my!

Following Warhammer Online's patch 1.3.4, the team has kept a close eye on the PvP scenarios, and while they are happy overall, the plague of player /AFK's have taken their toll. Carrie promises that they are "actively investigating a solution for this problem." She also highlighted the improved communication efforts of the team, as seen on the official Dev Discussions forum.

Small but attractive improvements are in store for WAR's 1.3.5 patch, including a sharper look for armor dyes, "gutters" for the minimap to show off-map objective directions, and dual wielding for the mutated Marauder class.

Continue reading Warhammer Online Producer's Letter teases 1.3.5 improvements

MassivelyWarhammer Online Producer's Letter teases 1.3.5 improvements originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carrie-gouskosdev-discussiondual-wieldingdyemaraudermythicMythic-Entertainmentpatch-1.3.4patch-1.3.5producers-letterpvprvrscenariosunlimited-trialwarWarhammer-OnlineWed, 31 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Development diary explains the Warhammer Online changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/development-diary-explains-the-warhammer-online-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/development-diary-explains-the-warhammer-online-changes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/development-diary-explains-the-warhammer-online-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The rebalancing of Warhammer Online's Scenarios has been an arduous process for both the players afraid of losing well-loved content and developers trying to narrow down the field to help everything achieve critical mass. After a fair dose of testing and evaluation, they've reached a point where they're comfortable letting development manager Mike Wyatt write up a development diary giving a clearer picture of what informed the rather sweeping changes to the game's structure.

As Wyatt puts it, first of all, trimming the number of Scenarios consolidates the best-liked encounters and weeds out the less-popular versions. Second, a smaller number of Scenarios allows better balancing and tweaking of each, helping improve the overall experience. Lastly, the smaller number can have their rewards more easily brought in line, to avoid making one Scenario much more profitable than others.

What follows is a listing of the Scenarios that will rotate in and out versus those that are constantly available, which seems a bit smaller than the last one we received. The diary makes no mention of population concerns, content loss, or the general community reaction (ranging from "meh" to "no"). Still, with an ambitious change we can only hope that Warhammer Online's revisions prove to be a good thing for the game as a whole.

MassivelyDevelopment diary explains the Warhammer Online changes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developer-diaryea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsmike-wyattmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentrebalancingscenarioswarwar-eawar-patch-1.3.4warhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eaMon, 22 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online reveals new Scenario structure]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/warhammer-online-reveals-new-scenario-structure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/warhammer-online-reveals-new-scenario-structure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/warhammer-online-reveals-new-scenario-structure/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


People were not happy with the first version of Warhammer Online's plan to streamline the game's Scenarios to create a better structure. They were so not happy, in fact, that Mythic Entertainment decided it was better form to pull their original plans, wipe the slate clean, and start over with a clearer picture. And it seems to have worked, as Andy Belford has announced the revised plan for the scenarios as a whole. The result is a slightly larger list, but one with a bit more variety between tiers and a clearer picture of what the development team wanted to accomplish.

As the post explains, the biggest concerns for the scenarios was that they feel different from tier to tier, that each one be unique and interesting in its own right, and that each one can achieve critical mass easily enough that neither faction feels completely helpless. Response to the announcement in the thread seems largely positive, with a wider range available at endgame and a careful re-distribution of what scenarios show up when. Warhammer Online players still have the opportunity to test this new environment on the test servers, and in all likelihood it will be going live soon enough, which represents a definite effort at compromise from the developers.

MassivelyWarhammer Online reveals new Scenario structure originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy-belfordea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentscenarioswarwar-eawar-patch-1.3.4warhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eawarhammer-online-patch-1.3.4Mon, 15 Feb 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Back to the drawing board for Warhammer Online's scenarios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/back-to-the-drawing-board-for-warhammer-onlines-scenarios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/back-to-the-drawing-board-for-warhammer-onlines-scenarios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/back-to-the-drawing-board-for-warhammer-onlines-scenarios/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


When Warhammer Online promised to greatly streamline its scenario structure and remove several of its less popular ones with the upcoming patch 1.3.4, the response wasn't altogether positive. There was a definite concern that the game was trying to mitigate its difficult times by removing one of the most fun aspects it had, which sounds like a bad idea all around. However, the developers have clearly been paying attention -- after collecting additional feedback from players and receiving plenty of input from the test server, Andy Belford announced that the team was going "back to the whiteboard" for their plans on streamlining and removing scenarios.

While Belford makes it clear that the ultimate goal is the same -- to remove the unused and disliked scenarios and move the lower-tier ones that are well-loved to greater accessibility -- he also says that the team was getting clear input that they'd gone too far in the wrong direction. No dates are set, but a revised scenario setup and mass stability test is planned to go live sometime next week, hopefully with a better lineup. Whether or not you're currently playing Warhammer Online, it's always good to see developers paying close attention to what the players want.

MassivelyBack to the drawing board for Warhammer Online's scenarios originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy-belfordea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentrevisionsscenario-revisionscenarioswarwar-eawar-patch-1.3.4warhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eawarhammer-online-patch-1.3.4Sat, 06 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online brings 1.3.4 to test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/warhammer-online-brings-1-3-4-to-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/warhammer-online-brings-1-3-4-to-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/warhammer-online-brings-1-3-4-to-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A test server patch isn't quite as good as live, but it means that the patch is only a couple of weeks away, barring unusual circumstances. We recently heard a bit about the upcoming 1.3.4 patch for Warhammer Online, and true to forecasting, the patch is scheduled to hit the test realm right about... well, now. That means that we're that much closer to live weapons obtainable via RvR, a welcome change for the people who came for PvP to begin with.

Of course, patches on the test server invariably mean a set of patch notes, which helps to give more detail on what's en route for the game. As promised for buying weapons, there are new currencies awarded -- Emblems, which go in ascending ranks from Recruit to Officer. These can be traded for a variety of items and are rewarded for Scenario participation, which goes hand-in-hand with the extensive scenario restructuring also present.

The emblems can also convert up and down, so characters taking part in low-level content can hold on to their rewards if they so desire. Mixed with extensive balance tweaks and bug fixes, this looks to be a good patch for Warhammer Online players, so head on over to Warpstone and get in on the testing.

MassivelyWarhammer Online brings 1.3.4 to test server originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>currenciesea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsemblemsmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentpvprvrscenarioswarwar-eawar-patch-1.3.4warhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eawarhammer-patch-1.3.4warpstoneTue, 02 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II rolls out the battlegrounds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/everquest-ii-rolls-out-the-battlegrounds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/everquest-ii-rolls-out-the-battlegrounds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/27/everquest-ii-rolls-out-the-battlegrounds/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Starting February 16th, get ready to PvP across servers. EverQuest II is catching up with the mainstream MMO trends by adding battlegrounds to the mix, giving EQII PvP players the instanced scenarios that they've been looking forward to for a while.

The three scenarios include the Battlefield of Ganak, a 6 vs. 6 game of capture the flag in Iksar territory, Smuggler's Den, a 24 vs. 24 game of hold the point conducted on small islands, and the Gears of Klak'anon, a 6 vs. 6 game of hold the relic that saps your heath but makes you do crazy damage. Playing these scenarios does not go unrewarded, of course, as winners can look forward to claiming the very sexy new chaos armor set -- an armor set of dirty, twisted, spiked platemail that looks good on any battleground champion.

And, if you were wondering what yesterday's puzzle post was all about, wonder no more! We had pieces of of the battleground maps of Klak'anon and Smuggler's Den. But, not to worry, we've included the full maps and screenshots in the gallery below for your viewing pleasure. Happy battling!

Gallery: EverQuest II: Battlegrounds

MassivelyEverQuest II rolls out the battlegrounds originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iipatchpvpscenariossoesony-online-entertainmentWed, 27 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cross-server PvP battlegrounds confirmed for EverQuest II]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/cross-server-pvp-battlegrounds-confirmed-for-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/cross-server-pvp-battlegrounds-confirmed-for-everquest-ii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/15/cross-server-pvp-battlegrounds-confirmed-for-everquest-ii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Next year is going to be a brand new year full of fighting, queuing, and PvP for players of EverQuest II as Senior Producer Alan "Brenlo" Crosby has confirmed to the forum community that cross-server PvP battlegrounds are on their way.

According to the latest newsletter, the new battlegrounds system is set to launch on February 16th of next year, giving PvP fanatics some time to prepare. While details are very sketchy right now, there's a reason for that -- Brenlo has also said that the team is still working out the final details of the system. Maps, rewards, and gameplay styles are still being worked on and tested by the team.

But, needless to say, this system will be integrated across all servers and will give EQ II PvPers a quick selection of scenarios to jump into. As more information on the system appears, we'll be sure to keep you updated.

[Thanks for the tip, Biggin!]

MassivelyCross-server PvP battlegrounds confirmed for EverQuest II originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbrenlocross-server-battlegroundscross-server-pvpeq2everquest-2everquest-iipvpscenariossoesony-online-entertainmentTue, 15 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online interim city siege fixes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/warhammer-online-interim-city-siege-fixes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/warhammer-online-interim-city-siege-fixes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/warhammer-online-interim-city-siege-fixes/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mythic has been pulling out all stops lately in an effort to improve Warhammer Online. One of their latest changes was to remove fortresses from the RvR campaign equation because many players found them to be a laggy and boring hurdle to be overcome. Doing so, however, had a predictable result: Cities were sieged much more often. While Mythic was acutely aware this would happen, they didn't have measures in place to handle an "all city siege all the time" situation. Today, Andy Belford announced a suite of interim city fixes.

Check out the official forums for the complete run-down. A few notables include: The durations of stage 1 and 2 city siege have been cut in half, many parts of the city are no longer tied to city rank, city rank recovers much more quickly, and the Reikland Factory and Twisting Tower scenarios are making a comeback to provide those not engaged in city siege with something to do.

Many players and bloggers have pointed out that these fixes only address the symptoms and not the core issues related to WAR's RvR campaign. Andy was quick to mention that these are only initial changes and more will be coming (e.g., the Underdog system). Testing of these changes should begin next week so keep your eyes on the Herald.

MassivelyWarhammer Online interim city siege fixes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy-belfordcity-siegemythic-entertainmentreikland-factoryrvrrvr-campaignscenariostwisting-towerwarwarhammer-onlineThu, 05 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Looking ahead to WAR's second year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/looking-ahead-to-wars-second-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/looking-ahead-to-wars-second-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/looking-ahead-to-wars-second-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Although we've seen celebrations for some time now, with the Wild Hunt event and a couple of special scenario weekends, Warhammer Online's actual birthday came and went at the end of last week. Executive Producer Jeff Hickman took the opportunity to sum up some of the things that the development team will be focusing on, moving forward into year two:

"In addition to the four new careers, numerous Live Events, the medallion system, Keep upgrades, city siege improvements, and other new features, we're now turning our focus to improving balance, performance, and the Tier 4 game play experience."

Also on the cards for improvement is the "new-player experience", an area that many MMOs have fine-tuned later in their life with excellent results. The birthday celebrations haven't quite wrapped up yet either, with the "Isha's Sorrow" event taking place over the coming weekend in the Temple of Isha scenario. It may have been a bit of a rocky first year for Warhammer Online, but we'll hold out hope for year two. Happy Birthday WAR!

MassivelyLooking ahead to WAR's second year originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdayeaelectronic-artsexecutive-producerfirst-birthdayishas-sorrowjeff-hickmanmythicmythic-entertainmentnew-player-experienceone-year-anniversaryscenariostemple-of-ishawarwarhammer-onlinewild-huntMon, 21 Sep 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Games Day '09: A moment with Paul Barnett and Josh Drescher pt. 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/games-day-09-a-moment-with-paul-barnett-and-josh-drescher-pt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/games-day-09-a-moment-with-paul-barnett-and-josh-drescher-pt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/games-day-09-a-moment-with-paul-barnett-and-josh-drescher-pt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

So, I know this is on many player's minds. Is this going to replace city raid content?

Josh: No.

Ok then.

Josh: Well, I mean the short answer is no.

Paul: My answer is totally no.

"This is a long term, total commitment from our studio to our players and to our newer players coming along."
Josh: Long answer, I've been with Mythic for eight years. I was here before Camelot launched and we know what this type of content does to a greater RvR campaign. While the RvR campaign is certainly more diverse and larger in Warhammer than in Camelot, but we know pragmatically that by tying the content to the campaign and requiring success on the battlefield to gain access to this content, that success may push you towards capital city content. Even if RvR is not your focus and your focus is to get down into the dungeon, you're going to wind up working your way towards the capital city. It just happens organically, so we're really not concerned about that too much.

At the end of the day, if people end up deciding that they enjoy this content more than city capture, we never felt that we need to integrate the players into the game in one set, specific way. Personally, I really love scenarios over everything else. I don't have much time to play, so for me, 15 minute scenarios are the way to play. That doesn't mean I won't engage in RvR, but overall I get 15 minutes here, 15 minutes there, and scenarios will always be my core fascination.

But there are other people who like large-scale raid content, who don't like RvR or PvP. This is a great way to have them go down and get that Disney Land experience while running through well-thought out content, but there's also that added danger that at any moment enemy players can swarm in. Also, as Paul likes to say...

Paul: I don't like building fart balloons.

*Laughs*

Paul: It's like the extended cut of a great movie. You have the main core of the movie, but you also have that extended stuff. You can watch the main core of the movie, but if you really want to obsess and you really want to see all of the detail you can watch the extended cut. It's more of the same, but it's new and cool. That's what it is. The movie is still the movie, our game is still our game, regardless.

Ok, so, this is basically a small expansion, honestly. Where do you see Warhammer going from here?

Paul: Go straight, go straight, go straight, go straight. This is a long term, total commitment from our studio to our players and to our newer players coming along. Try it out, it's never going away, it's only going onwards and upwards.

Josh: I agree with Paul. Our boxed expansion schedule, such as it is, is probably going to mirror very closely to what we did in Camelot -- an alternating sequence of free expansions via patches and then boxed retail expansion content. Almost certainly you will see retail expansions in the near future, but you will certainly keep seeing free expansions as well.

"To go to a person at a time like this when unemployment is rampant, the economy is in the tank, and retirement funds have gone away and say, "Hey, can I have 10 to 15 dollars of your money every month to play my game?" is actually a pretty bold request."
We've always felt the relationship we, the developer, have with our players should be something more than just simple money extraction. At least 50 percent of it should be grateful generation of wonderful things for them to have for free.

All right. Now the hard question. 300,000 subscribers -- how do you guys feel about that? It's the number you started with, and it's the number you currently hold now.

Josh: There is no start and there is no now. Now, as a company, we're legally not allowed to comment on those numbers any further than what was reported, but we're very happy with the enthusiasm and continued dedication of people all over the world who have played Warhammer for the last nine months.

It's been a really difficult time not just for the games industry, but for everyone. To go to a person at a time like this when unemployment is rampant, the economy is in the tank, and retirement funds have gone away and say, "Hey, can I have 10 to 15 dollars of your money every month to play my game?" is actually a pretty bold request. So for people to come to us and say that the commitment we've shown and the game that we've built is worth that kind of display, we have nothing but thanks for those people. We are unbelievably grateful that they've stuck with us and we hope that this type of content that we've been developing for the last nine months is an indication of our dedication to our end of this type of interaction. They trust us to do this, and we're trying to make good on our end of it and bring great things to them consistently.

We are very happy with where the game is. We would obviously love to have more people try Warhammer, which is why we have the trial out...

Paul: Which you can download right now!

Josh: And we're very happy to continue on into the future. Also, this event is the last thing I'm allowed to do before I go get married. I'm very excited, I'm getting married next Saturday.

Paul: It's an exclusive for Massively!

Josh: I love you Aubrey, please continue marrying me. Put that in big bold letters. Breaking news: Josh loves Aubrey.

I will totally do that. Josh, Paul, thank you so much for your time!
The sands of the Tomb Kings are coming as the final release in the Call to Arms live expansion, the Land of the Dead approaches! Massively has your back with coverage from Mythic Entertainment at Games Day '09, so get your WAAGGGHHH ready for RvR mayhem as Massively re-arms for WAR!

MassivelyGames Day '09: A moment with Paul Barnett and Josh Drescher pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 May 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-to-armsdark-age-of-camelotdarkness-fallsgames-day-2009interviewjosh-drescherland-of-the-deadmarriagemarriage-proposalmythic-entertainmentpaul-barnettpvepvprvrscenarioswarwarhammer-onlineWed, 13 May 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nordenwatch scenario weekend in Warhammer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/nordenwatch-scenario-weekend-in-warhammer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/nordenwatch-scenario-weekend-in-warhammer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/01/nordenwatch-scenario-weekend-in-warhammer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mythic has just announced their first special scenario weekend for Warhammer Online. The Nordenwatch scenario will be available to players across all tiers and will grant a unique title and an additional 10% renown and experience from now until Monday, May 4, 2009 at 8:00AM EDT.

Those familiar with Warhammer scenarios will know that Nordenwatch is usually only available to characters in tier 1 (ranks 1-11) and is widely considered one of the best scenarios in the game. Nordenwatch is an island off the coast of Nordland containing a lighthouse, barracks, and lookout fortress. Each of these three locations is capturable and grants points the as you hold it. The zone's terrain and openness make for some truly epic battles.

When the teams are evenly matched, it's anyone's game and stealth capture tactics are well rewarded. It's not uncommon to see all manner of RvR in this scenario from zerg rushes to smaller 3-on-3 skirmishes to 1-on-1 action. It will be interesting to see how this scenario plays out in tiers 2 to 4, as players generally get more powerful crowd control abilitites as they rank up. A well-placed knockback at the fortress or lighthouse could result in a long swim back to the action.

MassivelyNordenwatch scenario weekend in Warhammer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 May 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundsmythic-entertainmentnordenwatchscenarioswarwarhammer-onlineFri, 01 May 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic's Carrie Gouskos on Warhammer's ToK and hints of patch 1.3 ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/mythics-carrie-gouskos-on-warhammers-tok-and-hints-of-patch-1-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/mythics-carrie-gouskos-on-warhammers-tok-and-hints-of-patch-1-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/mythics-carrie-gouskos-on-warhammers-tok-and-hints-of-patch-1-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The 1.2 patch for Warhammer Online is barely a week old, but Chaos Moon managed to speak with Mythic's Carrie Gouskos about many a things -- including some hints for the 1.3 patch. There was also some general discussion of future updates to the Tome of Knowledge and much love from Carrie concerning the Book of Grudges mod. We're pretty excited to hear stat tracking for Scenarios and oRvR battles are on their way.

Of course the big news concerns clues of what to expect in the next big patch. Following some of Carrie's comments, it sounds as though the Tome of Knowledge could be getting a new feature or two in the 1.3. update. Additionally, some further UI information and visual improvements are on the was as well -- although Carrie mentions the visual boost will be minor.

What sorts of UI improvements could be on the way? The added layer of information to the open party and world map systems in 1.2 have been very well received, but going from Carrie's comments it seems as though something much more exciting is on the way. Given the size of the first two live events, something tells us Mythic will be showing off whatever it is they're working on next in a big way.
Warhammer Online Coverage Mythic has announced the first expansion to Warhammer Online! Check out the announcement itself, the two brand-new classes coming to the game, and the enormous new dungeon/zone slated for a few months away! Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyMythic's Carrie Gouskos on Warhammer's ToK and hints of patch 1.3 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carrie-gouskoseaelectronic-artsgames-workshopmodsmythicmythic-entertainmentopen-rvrorvrpvprealm-vs-realmrumorscenariostome-of-knowledgewarwar-patch-1.2war-patch-1.3warhammerwarhammer-onlineMon, 09 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR's Heavy Metal hotfixes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/wars-heavy-metal-hotfixes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/wars-heavy-metal-hotfixes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/22/wars-heavy-metal-hotfixes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Mythic Entertainment has announced some recent Warhammer Online hot fixes they've made regarding the Heavy Metal live event, which entails the completion of daily tasks for the chance to gain early access to the two new classes being introduced to the game. Despite the excitement some had about being able to play a Knight of the Blazing Sun or a Black Guard early through goal completion in the Heavy Metal event, there have been some issues and complaints that WAR players have been reporting -- particularly in regards to unfinished tasks and scenario launch rates at Reikland Factory.

Warhammer Online community coordinator James Nichols made an announcement about what Mythic is doing to address these concerns:

  • By popular request, players will now be able to complete previous daily tasks for the Heavy Metal event. A task will continue to unlock each day and remain open until the end of the event allowing players to complete all the tasks at their convenience. Please Note: If you notice an apparent loss of credit for any previous days you have already completed simply exit the game entirely and log back in to correct this issue.
  • Reikland Factory: Improvements have been made to potentially increase the rate at which the scenario launches.
How have your own experiences with WAR's Heavy Metal live event been?
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyWAR's Heavy Metal hotfixes originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-guardea-mythicheavy-metalknight-of-the-blazing-sunmythic-entertainmentreikland-factoryscenarioswarwarhammer-onlineSat, 22 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: December updates for WAR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/the-digital-continuum-december-updates-for-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/the-digital-continuum-december-updates-for-war/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/18/the-digital-continuum-december-updates-for-war/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Warhammer Online has its flaws that like to run up and slap you in the face from time to time -- it can put a damper on the fun. Lucky for us, one of the strengths found in Warhammer Online actually comes from its design team, Mythic Entertainment. These guys (and gals!) have been stringing together a daisy-chain of updates and just yesterday announced their first big content release only one month out of launch. The update seems all good, but I do have a couple of gripes.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: December updates for WAR

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: December updates for WAR originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 18 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-guardeaelectronic-artsfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesknight-of-the-blazing-sunmark-jacobsmythicmythic-entertainmentopen-pvprvrscenariostankingtanksthe-digital-continuumwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineSat, 18 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's WAR Camp: Tier 3 Scenario Guides pt. 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/massivelys-war-camp-tier-3-scenario-guides-pt-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/massivelys-war-camp-tier-3-scenario-guides-pt-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/massivelys-war-camp-tier-3-scenario-guides-pt-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Talabec Dam scenario may remind some FPS fans of a much older (but still popular) game, as it involves running a bomb or "Powder Keg" to a particular location in order to blow it sky-high. However, no one starts with the bomb in Talabec, and players must fight off the enemy team to have a chance to pick up the sole Powder Keg that lies in the middle of the map. Once this takes place, you'll either be pushing your team towards the bombing site, or trying to assassinate the bomb carrier or run his timer down and prevent the big boom! Click the button below to see our Talabec Dam gallery guide.

Gallery: Warhammer Online: WAR Camp Series

Capturing and defending keepsIt all starts in Tier 2The bottom floorThe Keep LordKeep architecture

MassivelyMassively's WAR Camp: Tier 3 Scenario Guides pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chaoschaos-artifacteaea-mythicempiremassivelys-war-campmythicpowder-kegscenarioscenario-guidescenariostalabec-damwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlinewindmill-of-talabeclandFri, 17 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR's phase two experience enhancements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/wars-phase-two-experience-enhancements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/wars-phase-two-experience-enhancements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/15/wars-phase-two-experience-enhancements/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Man, these guys just keep on rollin' with these updates. After the first phase of Mythic's "experience enhancements" players in their 3 and 4 found themselves with an overall improved experience gain in those zones. Now Mythic has taken the next step in phase two by allowing players to receive not only renown, but experience from capturing a keep -- assuming they're the proper,(non-bolstered) level. The Warhammer Online Herald lays out the tier requirements as such, "In Tier 2, players will begin to earn this bonus when they reach rank 15. In Tier 3, the minimum rank required is 25, and in Tier 4 it is 35. Players will notice a diminishing return from keep captures if their level approaches the top of that tier." All in all, it seems like Mythic has put some serious thought into this decision.

We're happy to see them giving players more reason to participate in open world RvR earlier in the game. Scenarios are fun and all, but there's definitely something to be said about some good old keep capturing.

MassivelyWAR's phase two experience enhancements originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsexperience-enhancementkeepsopen-world-pvpscenarioswarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineWed, 15 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR's cross-server scenario queues akin to socialism]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/04/wars-cross-server-scenario-queues-akin-to-socialism/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/04/wars-cross-server-scenario-queues-akin-to-socialism/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/04/wars-cross-server-scenario-queues-akin-to-socialism/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Warhammer Online, despite a very smooth launch, has a few nagging problems that have cropped up in its first weeks of life. Chief among its growing pains is the problem of scenario queuing issues, both on barren servers and the ones that are practically choking on players. Snafzg over at The Greenskin asks if creating a better situation for all Warhammer Online players must entail some degree of sacrifice made by all through cross-server scenario queues, likening the solution to socialism. A situation where the 'good servers' sacrifice for the benefit of 'problem servers'.

Snafzg writes, "I'm not saying socialism is bad... but I wonder if there are alternative solutions that don't punish (too strong a word?) people on good servers for the benefit of those on bad servers. I don't envy Mythic here... Make one crowd happy only to piss off another?" He also points out that the core issues of server population imbalance impact the game on many levels, and suggests some potential solutions for both overpopulation and underpopulation issues. If you're not happy with the scenario frequency in Warhammer Online, give Snafzg's "Cross-Server Scenario Socialism..." post a read, and let him know if you agree with his views on the issue.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyWAR's cross-server scenario queues akin to socialism originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 04 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cross-serverdestructionea-mythicimbalancemythic-entertainmentorderpopulation-imbalancescenario-queuesscenariosserver-populationsnafzgsocialismthe-greenskinwarwarhammer-onlineSat, 04 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online hot fixes for September 30th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/warhammer-online-hot-fixes-for-september-30th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/warhammer-online-hot-fixes-for-september-30th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/warhammer-online-hot-fixes-for-september-30th/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Yesterday Mythic patched a bunch of hot fixes into Warhammer Online when they implemented the cross pairing queues for Scenarios. Most of the hot fixes address questing bugs that were scattered about the game but there's a class fix for the Archmage and a Scenario bug fix as well.

There's also a capital city fix which is far too funny not to share, "The Mastiff's End Brawler in Altdorf will no longer start bar fights and kill the other patrons at the Mastiff's End Tavern." While it's nice that there won't be a man pummeling everyone to death at the bar in Altdorf, we're a bit bummed out to have missed this particular bug in action. If anyone grabbed a video of that, you can email it to us through our handy tip line and we'll throw it up there for all to see. The rest of the bug fixes lie in wait like a crazed bar brawler ready to strike, after the break.

Continue reading Warhammer Online hot fixes for September 30th

MassivelyWarhammer Online hot fixes for September 30th originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altdorfarchmageeaelectronic-artsmastiffsmythicmythic-entertainmentpunchedscenarioswarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineWed, 01 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer developers announce scenario cross-pairing queues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/warhammer-developers-announce-scenario-cross-pairing-queues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/warhammer-developers-announce-scenario-cross-pairing-queues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/warhammer-developers-announce-scenario-cross-pairing-queues/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Good news everyone! Mythic has today announced that Warhammer Online scenario queues can now be entered from any of the appropriate zones. That is to say, any Tier 1 scenario can now be queued into from any Tier 1 zone. Standing in Nordland, you can now just as easily queue for Khaine's Embrace or the Gates of Ekrund as you can the Nordenwatch skirmish. In fact, we just confirmed by jumping in-game that you can queue up for all three scenarios at the same time! All you have to do to actually choose your queue is use the arrows next to the scenario name, like so:

The news was announced in an official post on the Warhammer Herald site. The post goes on to note that "We know many have been waiting for this feature and we have a lot more great additions coming on the horizon. We look forward to your continued feedback as we work to take WAR to the next level." Hopefully we'll see more player-requested features like this added in soon. What do you want Mythic to add into Warhammer next?

MassivelyWarhammer developers announce scenario cross-pairing queues originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingmythic-entertainmentpatchpvprvrscenarioswarwarhammer-onlineTue, 30 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's WAR Camp: Tier 2 Scenario Guides pt. 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides-pt-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides-pt-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides-pt-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Stonetroll Crossing is the Tier 2 scenario for the Empire and Chaos pairing. The stars of this scenario are the Stonetrolls, who toss large chunks of rock all over the map at regular intervals. A Troll Pacifier is located in the center of the scenario, and can be used to pacify the trolls, earning points towards victory for your realm. It's not as easy as it sounds though, with both the trolls and the enemy players interrupting you every step of the way. Click through to our gallery guide below to preview the stomping grounds of these mischievous trolls.

Gallery: Warhammer Online: WAR Camp Series

Capturing and defending keepsIt all starts in Tier 2The bottom floorThe Keep LordKeep architecture

MassivelyMassively's WAR Camp: Tier 2 Scenario Guides pt. 3 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundschaoseaea-mythicempiremythicostlandscenarioscenariosstonetroll-crossingtroll-countrywarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineFri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's WAR Camp: Tier 2 Scenario Guides pt. 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides-pt-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides-pt-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides-pt-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Mourkain Temple is the Tier 2 scenario for the Dwarf and Greenskin racial pairing. Its objective could be described as "murder-ball" -- there's an artifact to grab in the center of the map, and when you have it, everyone on the other team will be after your blood. The artifact provides bonus points to the holding realm when they get kills, and there is a bonus to the other realm if they can kill the carrier. This also gives them a chance to pick up the artifact themselves, if they're quick enough. Check out our gallery guide to see more of Mourkain Temple, and when you're done there, continue on for a look at the last Tier 2 scenario.

Gallery: Warhammer Online: WAR Camp Series

Capturing and defending keepsIt all starts in Tier 2The bottom floorThe Keep LordKeep architecture

MassivelyMassively's WAR Camp: Tier 2 Scenario Guides pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundsdwarfeaea-mythicgreenskinmourkain-templemythicscenarioscenariost2tier-2warhammerwarhammer-onlineFri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's WAR Camp: Tier 2 Scenario Guides]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/26/massivelys-war-camp-tier-2-scenario-guides/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


By now, people who picked up Warhammer Online at launch should have had a chance to play a bit, and many of them will be in Tier 2. This unfortunately means leaving the Tier 1 scenarios behind, but it also means that a whole new set of scenarios is unlocked. As in Tier 1, there is one scenario per racial pairing in Tier 2, totaling three new battlegrounds to visit. We've once again visited all three and documented our findings in gallery guides. Join us over the page, as we begin by looking at Phoenix Gate, the scenario for the High Elf and Dark Elf pairing.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out all of our previous Warhammer Online features, and don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

Continue reading Massively's WAR Camp: Tier 2 Scenario Guides

MassivelyMassively's WAR Camp: Tier 2 Scenario Guides originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundsdark-elfeaea-mythicfeaturedhigh-elfmythicphoenix-gatescenarioscenariost2tier-2warwarhammerwarhammer-onlineFri, 26 Sep 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: WAR's secret PvP sauce]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/20/the-digital-continuum-wars-secret-pvp-sauce/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/20/the-digital-continuum-wars-secret-pvp-sauce/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/20/the-digital-continuum-wars-secret-pvp-sauce/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Before the game's launch day came, a lot of people found themselves thinking there was a stigma that came with Warhammer Online. There was a concern that you couldn't play the game without having to participate in PvP or that the PvE content assumed a much smaller role within the game. People were just plain scared/worried/concerned about PvP in general. Today when I log in I'll find countless strangers and friends all participating in some form of PvP content during their play session. So just what is Mythic's apparently potent secret sauce?

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: WAR's secret PvP sauce

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: WAR's secret PvP sauce originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 20 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsfeaturedjoystiqfeaturesmythicmythic-entertainmentopen-worldpublic-questspvpscenariossecret-saucewarwarhammer-onlineSat, 20 Sep 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's WAR Camp: Tier 1 Scenario Guides]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/massivelys-war-camp-tier-1-scenario-guides/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/massivelys-war-camp-tier-1-scenario-guides/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/18/massivelys-war-camp-tier-1-scenario-guides/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

WAR is finally upon us, and as the gates open and players flood the servers hungry for blood, their first Realm versus Realm experience is most likely going to come from "scenarios". Scenarios are instanced battlegrounds that you can join by clicking a button near your minimap, and will differ depending on which part of the world you're in. Once you get into one, there will be a number of objectives to fight for, all the while holding off players from the opposing realm.

Each racial pairing has its own scenario, totalling three unique battlegrounds per tier. We've braved the frontlines in each of the Tier 1 scenarios in order to give you a preview of the landscape and objectives that are the backdrop for the RvR mayhem. First up, we'll take a look at the High Elf vs. Dark Elf pairing, then Dwarf vs. Greenskin, and finally Empire vs. Chaos. Join us after the break to view our gallery guide for the Elf pairing scenario, Khaine's Embrace, and for guides to the other two scenarios as well!
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out all of our previous Warhammer Online features, and don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

Continue reading Massively's WAR Camp: Tier 1 Scenario Guides

MassivelyMassively's WAR Camp: Tier 1 Scenario Guides originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Sep 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-reckoningbattlegroundsblighted-islechracedark-elfeaea-mythichigh-elfkhainekhaines-embracemythicscenarioswarwarhammer-onlineThu, 18 Sep 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Elves of WAR: Disciple of Khaine levels 6-10]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/17/the-elves-of-war-disciple-of-khaine-levels-6-10/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/17/the-elves-of-war-disciple-of-khaine-levels-6-10/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/17/the-elves-of-war-disciple-of-khaine-levels-6-10/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Levels six through ten for the Disciple of Khaine see you receiving not only your first morale ability (hint: it's a big heal) but also your first revive spell at level ten. The especially nice thing about the Dark Elf healer's revive spell is that it costs no Action Points (AP) to use and it builds 20 Soul Essence (SE) on top of that, too. The only drawback is that it's got a six second casting time, which doesn't make it the most immediate revive in the heat of battle. Another first for these levels is a very nice de-taunting spell that's definitely handy to have for later Public Quests.

Continue reading The Elves of WAR: Disciple of Khaine levels 6-10

MassivelyThe Elves of WAR: Disciple of Khaine levels 6-10 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-elvesdisciple-of-khaineeaelectronic-artselves-of-warjoystiqfeaturesmassively-goes-to-warmythicmythic-entertainmentscenarioswarwarhammer-onlineSun, 17 Aug 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer website previews new PvP scenarios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/warhammer-website-previews-new-pvp-scenarios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/warhammer-website-previews-new-pvp-scenarios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/warhammer-website-previews-new-pvp-scenarios/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The latest edition of Scenarios 101 is up on the official Warhammer Online website, and this latest screed covers two of the very first RvR encounters players can have in the Dwarf/Greenskin conflict. The first area described is the famed Gates of Ekrund. You may recall it from our own Massively goes to WAR series; we discussed its strategy in-depth during our look at the game's instanced PvP maps. The developers reiterate the need to control the all-important central Gate switch. They also suggest trying to pull players off of the other two switches with scouts - just one extra switch cap can make the difference.

The other scenario covered is the Tier 2 RvR encounter known as Mourkain Temple. Fewer details overall are covered, but it sounds as if this 12 v. 12 pile-on will be a pretty simple affair. Mourkain is another Murder Ball event, where players vie to hold onto the Mourkain Artifact from the center of the map. Killing players while holding the bobble gains your team extra points, but killing the Artifact holder is worth extra points for the opposing side. Meanwhile, the artifact holder loses hit points at a rapid rate. The result? A fast-paced PUG-friendly encounter worthy of the Blood God.

MassivelyWarhammer website previews new PvP scenarios originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-mythicinstancespvprvrscenarioswarwarhammer-onlineThu, 03 Jul 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively goes to WAR: Wrap-up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/massively-goes-to-war-wrap-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/massively-goes-to-war-wrap-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/massively-goes-to-war-wrap-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

All week long, Massively.com has been offering up feature after feature on EA Mythic's in-development MMO, Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. The Massively goes to WAR feature series has taken you front to back through almost every moment of our time at Mythic's Virginia headquarters. To wrap it all up, we've got a handy-dandy clickable guide to the series. Whether you're into hardcore PvP, dungeon delving, crafting, or are a total MMO newb, we've got you covered. Click on through, and explore the world of Warhammer.

Gallery: Warhammer Online

Continue reading Massively goes to WAR: Wrap-up

MassivelyMassively goes to WAR: Wrap-up originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesdan-enrightea-mythicfeaturedguildsjoystiqfeatureskeepsmassively-goes-to-warpvprvrscenariosshamansiegestome-of-knowledgewarwarhammer-onlineFri, 06 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST