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[Jukebox Heroes: Character select music]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/jukebox-heroes-character-select-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/jukebox-heroes-character-select-music/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/jukebox-heroes-character-select-music/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Character select music
Character select and creation music has always fascinated me. OK, maybe not fascinated; it's interested me. I've always viewed such themes as the overture of the game, the interlude between the title theme and the game proper to come.

These themes don't tend to be rip-roaring in their presentation because that's not their purpose. They have to be pleasant enough without being annoying when looped endlessly. After all, sometimes players spend a loooong time making their characters or sitting there at the select screen, and the last thing you want is for their ears to become fatigued by the experience.

So here are six MMO character select and character creation themes that I've enjoyed over the years. And if you saw the title graphic up there and immediately started hearing this song in your head, then you and I probably grew up in the same era.

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Character select music

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Character select music originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioscity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcomposercomposerscovcoxeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xifree-to-playfreedomgame-musicjasper-kydjesper-kydjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmusicncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiossandboxsandparksci-fantasysci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentsoundtracksoundtrackssquaresquare-enixsuperherosuperheroestelonthe-chronicles-of-spellbornvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwildstarwsTue, 21 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online introduces new map in which players can die painfully]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/mechwarrior-online-introduces-new-map-in-which-players-can-die-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/mechwarrior-online-introduces-new-map-in-which-players-can-die-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/mechwarrior-online-introduces-new-map-in-which-players-can-die-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MechWarrior Online introduces new map with allnew ways to die
MechWarrior Online's newest map, the Canyon Network, is riddled with slot canyons, steep drops, and high plateaus. As part of MWO's latest update, the Canyon Network is meant to provide a playground for snipers and strategic thinkers.

The Blackjack has been named as the new Mech of the Month, with the Jenner donning the mantle of Champion Mech. As part of the content update, new cobra camo patterns and faction cockpit medallions have been added to the store.

Skip below the cut to check out videos of the new Canyon Network and the Blackjack in action.

[Source: MWO press release]

Continue reading MechWarrior Online introduces new map in which players can die painfully

MassivelyMechWarrior Online introduces new map in which players can die painfully originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blackjackcanyon-networkf2pfree-to-playjennermechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamessci-fivideovideosTue, 21 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online redesigns radial menu for Odyssey]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/eve-online-redesigns-radial-menu-for-odyssey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/eve-online-redesigns-radial-menu-for-odyssey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/eve-online-redesigns-radial-menu-for-odyssey/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online redesigns radial menu for OdysseyIn looking to trim down some of the menu bloat for EVE Online's Odyssey expansion, CCP Games is resurrecting and redesigning the radial menu to be a "silver bullet" for this issue.

The updated radial menu will be connected to the underutilized left mouse button and is confined to eight segments that will change depending on what the user is clicking. The studio wrote up a blog post on the subject, promising that the redesign is intuitive and will result in faster access to relevant commands.

Initially, the radial menu upgrade will be for ship flight only, although CCP is willing to expand its domain if players find it useful. This feature is currently available on the test server.

MassivelyEVE Online redesigns radial menu for Odyssey originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesdev-blogdev-diaryeveeve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsmenumenusodysseyradial-menusandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineTue, 21 May 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Does SWTOR's F2P work?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/hyperspace-beacon-does-swtors-f2p-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/hyperspace-beacon-does-swtors-f2p-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/hyperspace-beacon-does-swtors-f2p-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon Does SWTOR's F2P work
Those of us who have played through the middle planets of Star Wars: The Old Republic know that chapter two is rather blasé. And as far as the free-to-play experiment is concerned, I really don't have anything new to report this week, or at least, not enough to fill a whole column. I will certainly have an update for you next week.

This week, I'd like to talk about SWTOR's free-to-play model in general. Although the design team has received a lot of heat from fans and haters alike, the system does have merit along with legitimate flaws. I do like SWTOR, but I'm not ignorant enough to believe that everything the game designers have done is perfect. I am also not one to hate because the game wronged me a year and a half ago. No matter the game, I understand, given my three years reporting in the industry and many other years playing video games, that there will always be people who hate a game no matter what developers do to appease them. At the same time, there will always be those who love a game no matter what stupid thing the developers do and will see no wrong no matter what you say to try to convince them. I try to put myself somewhere in the middle.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Does SWTOR's F2P work?

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Does SWTOR's F2P work? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebusiness-modelsdallasdamion-schuberteaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubscriberssubscriptionswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online Legacy of Romulus launch-day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/star-trek-online-legacy-of-romulus-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/star-trek-online-legacy-of-romulus-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/star-trek-online-legacy-of-romulus-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Trek Online Legacy of Romulus launchday roundup
With today's launch of Star Trek Online's first expansion, Legacy of Romulus, players can boldly go where no one has gone before. (Not to mention it gives us a reason to use that iconic phrase!) From new species and ships to more Klingon content, this next chapter in the STO saga expands the universe for players to explore. Want to captain a new ship as a Romulan or a Reman? Can do. How about adventure in a new zone? Yup. Or maybe just revel in the bounty of new rewards? Go for it.

If, however, you're stuck in spacedock and unable to head out yet, you can check out the changes awaiting you in the guides, videos, news briefs, and galleries below.

Continue reading Star Trek Online Legacy of Romulus launch-day roundup

MassivelyStar Trek Online Legacy of Romulus launch-day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosexpansionf2pfree-to-playKlingonslaunchlaunch-day-round-uplaunch-day-rounduplegacy-of-romulusperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweRemansremusRomulansromulussci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 21 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlanetSide 1 appears to be going free-to-play... eventually]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/planetside-1-appears-to-be-going-free-to-play-eventually/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/planetside-1-appears-to-be-going-free-to-play-eventually/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/planetside-1-appears-to-be-going-free-to-play-eventually/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

PS1
In a series of tweets earlier this evening, SOE's John Smedley hinted that classic PlanetSide 1 will at some future date be converted into a free-to-play MMO. He wrote,
We did a mass grant of anyone who has ever played ps1 or ps2 with free time in ps1. We weren't ready to announce it yet because the database grant is still ongoing and won't be done till tmw morning. So please if you didn't get flagged chill. We are trying to do something cool for everyone and we were going to tell people when it's done. But people saw it and others broadcast the info. Please don't complain :) we aren't raising your taxes we are making a game free. This also gives us more time to make it f2p. So enjoy starting tmw late morning.
This news comes just as PlanetSide 1 is celebrating its 10th birthday. Smedley's tweet refers to a new SOE promotion that will grant PlanetSide 2 players six free months of PS1 play.

MassivelyPlanetSide 1 appears to be going free-to-play... eventually originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 May 2013 00:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-mmofpsmmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2psps1ps2sandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentTue, 21 May 2013 00:40:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Mobile is coming according to Jon Lander]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/eve-mobile-is-coming-according-to-jon-lander/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/eve-mobile-is-coming-according-to-jon-lander/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/eve-mobile-is-coming-according-to-jon-lander/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Now you can stand next to someone, blow up their ship on your phone, then punch them.
If you've ever been involved in a discussion about EVE Online, you've heard it referred to as a sequence of spreadsheets which occasionally let you fly a spaceship. Which certainly has some basis in truth. Certainly it's a game with many possible systems that could be ported to a mobile client, something that CCP's Jon Lander is claiming will be a reality in the near future. Lander has moved from being EVE's executive producer to mobile development, but his new position is clearly still tied to the same game.

Rather than simply being a series of spreadsheets for your smartphone, Lander has made it clear that the mobile team wants for the various EVE mobile apps to be functional games in their own right. It's a field that CCP has explored before, stopping either due to technical hurdles or business concerns. But Lander's confident that players will be using the mobile applications by the time next year's Fanfest rolls around.

MassivelyEVE Mobile is coming according to Jon Lander originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-mobileeve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsjon-landermobilemobile-developmentsandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineMon, 20 May 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/cloud-imperium-unveils-star-citizen-hangar-module/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Star Citizen - Hangar module with Hornet
Cloud Imperium has taken the wraps off Star Citizen's hangar module, a standalone app that's scheduled to be released to early adopters later this summer. Pledgers will get a chance to walk through their hangars and ogle their pledge ships, as well as climb inside them and invite their friends over for a spaceship-themed soiree.

The hangar module is "about 50 percent fleshed out right now," according to the spiffy Cloud Imperium video tour that you can watch after the cut.

[Thanks Eric!]

Continue reading Cloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module

MassivelyCloud Imperium unveils Star Citizen hangar module originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundingcry-enginecryenginehangarhangar-moduleinternet-spaceshipskickstartersandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizenstar-citizen-hangarvideozomg-do-wantMon, 20 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[It's a ship in a box in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/its-a-ship-in-a-box-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/its-a-ship-in-a-box-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/its-a-ship-in-a-box-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Astute observers will note the similarity to the Scimitar.
Just because you're playing a Romulan in Star Trek Online's first expansion doesn't mean every other Romulan is your friend. Empress Sela's Tal Shiar are a huge threat not just to the nascent Romulan Republic but to all sentient life throughout the galaxy, epitomized with their insectoid ships that fuse Romulan, Borg, and Elachi technology together. Needless to say, these ships are never good to see on the horizon. Unless you happen to open one in a lockbox, anyhow.

Yes, the newest lockbox in the game will give players a chance to earn the strange ships of the Tal Shiar, giving all captains a chance to fly some of the strangest ships yet seen in the game. The ships perform similarly to Romulan crafts with their built-in cloaks, but they exchange some of the active Romulan cloaking power for tactical weapons like Shrapnel Torpedoes. For more details on what awaits in the upcoming lockboxes, take a look at the full rundown of potential prizes.

MassivelyIt's a ship in a box in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosexpansionf2pfree-to-playlegacy-of-romuluslockboxnew-lockboxnew-shipsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweremusromulussci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoMon, 20 May 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: What to expect in Star Trek Online's Legacy of Romulus expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/captains-log-stos-legacy-of-romulus-expansion-launches-tomorr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/captains-log-stos-legacy-of-romulus-expansion-launches-tomorr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/captains-log-stos-legacy-of-romulus-expansion-launches-tomorr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

STO Haakona warbird header
It's a little strange to think that it's already been three months since the developers at Star Trek Online first teased us with the Legacy of Romulus expansion with the March Beneath the Raptor's Wings kicker at the end of the anniversary video. Even then there were many of us who sincerely doubted the teaser meant we would finally be able to play a Romulan character, let alone that the Klingon faction would be filled-out.

Yet here we are, on the eve of the release of Star Trek Online's first expansion and a flood of new material. Beware, I will be writing spoilers about the new content, but if you're not worried about that, feel free to join me as I touch on most of what we're going to see!

Continue reading Captain's Log: What to expect in Star Trek Online's Legacy of Romulus expansion

MassivelyCaptain's Log: What to expect in Star Trek Online's Legacy of Romulus expansion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bird of preyBirdOfPreycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosexpansionf2pfeaturedfederationfree-to-playklingonklingon defense forceklingonslegacy of romulusopinionparadise cityperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplanet of galactic peacepreviewpreviewspweromulanRomulanssci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestowarbirdMon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: Still moving in WildStar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-nexus-telegraph-still-moving-in-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-nexus-telegraph-still-moving-in-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-nexus-telegraph-still-moving-in-wildstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Or just stand there and let it reach you, that's cool too.
The downside to writing about WildStar in this stage of the game's lifecycle is that because of the very nature of beta tests, I'm going to be spending a lot of time speculating instead of talking about certainties. Last week, I speculated. I was wrong on some points, as I found out when I got a letter from Carbine clarifying some things that had previously been ambiguous enough for speculation.

The upside to writing about WildStar in this stage of the game's lifecycle is that sometimes I get letters from development staff letting me in on valuable inside information.

Aside from being able to clarify my previous incorrect speculation, I also have for you a number of other important bits of information regarding the game this week, including a brief discussion of whether or not the game will allow for flight on a regular basis. So since that's well worth discussing, let's go ahead and just make this column another dialogue about movement.

Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: Still moving in WildStar

MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: Still moving in WildStar originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>areascarbinecarbine-studiosclimatecolumnfeaturedflightflyingflying-mountsloremovementncsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionregionssandparksci-fantasysci-fithe-nexus-telegraphtransportwildstarzonesMon, 20 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Monocle Day edition, May 20 - 26, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-stream-team-monocle-day-edition-may-20-26-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-stream-team-monocle-day-edition-may-20-26-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/the-stream-team-monocle-day-edition-may-20-26-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Monocle day edition, May 20 26, 2013
Two weeks ago, y'all had the chance to select a new holiday to help add some cheer to the otherwise bland weeks in the middle of May. The choices teased and tantalized you, but you're a discriminating crowd. In a race fraught with nail-biting suspense, only one ultimately prevailed. And so it is with further ado we bring to you: Monocle Day!

This Tuesday, May 21st, has been selected to be the auspicious day of this most storied celebration. Why? Because 5/21 splits into 5 + 2 + 1, which of course = 8, and we all know that 8 is just two monocles stacked on top of each other! And as always, Massively TV is here to help you ring in the new holiday, with special shows throughout the entire week. Check out the full schedule of celebratory events hosted by The Stream Team after the break. Then let us know if you'll be wearing your own monocle in honor of the festivities.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Monocle Day edition, May 20 - 26, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Monocle Day edition, May 20 - 26, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achaeaaction-mmoactivisionagonanetAnno-Onlinearenanetaventurinebiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playccpccp-gamescity-of-steamconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studiosdarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodfdndDotA-2dragonDragonrealmsdragonsdragons-propheteaelectronic-artselswordeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfrfree-realmsfree-to-playfuncomgoblinguild-warsgwhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalhorrorhousinginfernuminfernum-productionsinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykidskids-mmolivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmechanistmechanist-gamesmetamobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftneverwinteropen-pvpperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaneplanesplaystation-3playstation3pollps3pvppwerunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsteampunkstreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtorthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamthreshold-rpgtortswtwitchtwitch-tvunholy-warswarwarcraftwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warplaneswowwowpMon, 20 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Fanfest 2013 video roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/eve-evolved-fanfest-2013-video-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/eve-evolved-fanfest-2013-video-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/eve-evolved-fanfest-2013-video-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved Fanfest 2013 video roundup
Last month saw the huge tenth anniversary EVE Online Fanfest, a three-day convention packed full of exclusive reveals, behind-the-scenes talks, and community events. This year's Fanfest was the biggest one yet, celebrating EVE's tenth anniversary with special guest speakers from the scientific community, the reveal of a new virtual reality dogfighter, DUST 514's launch, and details of the upcoming Odyssey expansion. Massively was there to bring you coverage of the big news as it happened, and CCP streamed some of the key talks and events live to viewers at home.

This year's Fanfest sold out so quickly that many people who wanted to go didn't get a chance to, and only a select few talks were shown on the public livestream. With such a packed event schedule, even players in attendance couldn't be there for every interesting talk. Thankfully, CCP recorded over 30 of the most anticipated events and has now uploaded the videos to YouTube. Highlights include the Make EVE Real videos, the EVE keynote, the CCP Presents Keynote, and the talks on how DUST 514 integrates with the EVE economy.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I round up all of the EVE Fanfest videos in a handy list.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Fanfest 2013 video roundup

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Fanfest 2013 video roundup originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliance-panelapocalypseasteroidasteroid-miningasteroidsbattleshipccpccp-gameschinaconcept-artconsoleconventioncrimewatchcsm-paneldustdust-514economyeveeve-evolvedeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2013eve-is-realeve-onlineeventeventsfanfestfaster-than-lightfeaturedfpsftlgame-designgearinternet-spaceshipskeynotemake-eve-realminingmmofpsodysseyopinionplanetary-conquestplaystationplaystation-3progressionps3pvpsandboxsci-fishooterspace-elevatorspreadsheets-onlineuprisingSun, 19 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stick and Rudder: Why all the love for Roberts and Star Citizen?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/stick-and-rudder-why-all-the-love-for-roberts-and-star-citizen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/stick-and-rudder-why-all-the-love-for-roberts-and-star-citizen/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/stick-and-rudder-why-all-the-love-for-roberts-and-star-citizen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Stick and Rudder - Why all the love for Roberts and Star Citizen?
I was talking with a gaming buddy recently who missed the whole space sim experience in the 1990s. He's a Star Wars fan and a real-life pilot pushing 40, so it surprised me to learn that he'd never heard of Wing Commander, Freespace, X-Wing, and the like. My jaw really hit the floor as our conversation turned to current games and I began to evangelize about Star Citizen and Chris Roberts.

"Who's Chris Roberts?" he asked, with a straight face.

Continue reading Stick and Rudder: Why all the love for Roberts and Star Citizen?

MassivelyStick and Rudder: Why all the love for Roberts and Star Citizen? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebritychris-robertsclaw-markscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamingfeaturedhero-worshipimmersionloreroberts-space-industriesroleplayingrsisandboxsci-fishipspacespace-simspacesimstar-citizenstar-citizen-lorestar-citizen-writers-guidestick-and-ruddertie-fighterwing-commanderx-wingSun, 19 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: The many lives of Gwen Thackeray]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/one-shots-the-many-lives-of-gwen-thackeray/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/one-shots-the-many-lives-of-gwen-thackeray/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/one-shots-the-many-lives-of-gwen-thackeray/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Looming death
Hey Gwen, how's it hanging? Find that flute yet? Yeah, don't worry, I'm sure it'll turn up around here somewhere. Don't get too near the river there, girl; those skale have a nasty bite! Say, what's that sulfurous smell in the air? And those distant screams that are drawing nearer at an incredible rate? And a sudden looming premonition that the property values around here are about to take a nosedive?

Reader Sharvis sent in this Guild Wars picture with a modicum of pity: "Here is Gwen moments before the Searing. Poor girl."

Don't feel too sorry for her, Sharvis! She gets an entire expansion, after all!

Continue reading One Shots: The many lives of Gwen Thackeray

MassivelyOne Shots: The many lives of Gwen Thackeray originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playccpccp-gameseveeve-onlinefantasygalleriesgalleryguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2internet-spaceshipsncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsspreadsheets-onlineuser-submissionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 19 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online fulfills its promise to Klingon players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/star-trek-online-fulfills-its-promise-to-klingon-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/star-trek-online-fulfills-its-promise-to-klingon-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/star-trek-online-fulfills-its-promise-to-klingon-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online fulfills its promise to Klingon players
Klingon Defense Force players who have been crying out for years for a significant update to their unfinished faction will have their prayers answered when Star Trek Online's Legacy of Romulus expansion releases next week. Cryptic posted a blog telling these gamers that they have not been forgotten but will be vindicated with a complete experience from level 1 to 50.

"It was always promised that if Star Trek Online was ever going to add a third faction, we would make sure that Klingons would get expanded content first (or at the same time). With Legacy of Romulus adding Romulans as a playable faction, it was a matter of honor that the Klingons get their own content from level 1 to 50," Cryptic wrote.

The devs give slight spoilers to the new, reworked, and revised content that Klingons will be experiencing, such as how players will get their first starship and what iconic locations they'll be visiting (hint: a certain prison planet from Star Trek VI will come into play). The studio is also adding a pair of new KDF ships to the store when the expansion hits.

MassivelyStar Trek Online fulfills its promise to Klingon players originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdev-diarydev-postexpansionf2pfree-to-playkdfklingonklingon-defense-forceklingonslegacy-of-romulusperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweremusromulussci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoFri, 17 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR's Gree event returns May 21]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/swtors-gree-event-returns-may-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/swtors-gree-event-returns-may-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/swtors-gree-event-returns-may-21/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

You can have this Gree mount after a lot of grinding
The Gree starship Grey Secant is returning to Star Wars: The Old Republic's planet Ilum. BioWare's website has updated with all the details on the event's return engagement, which starts May 21st and runs through the 28th.

Players can earn reputation, rare armor, vehicles, and pets, and BioWare says that "this is a great time for players at level 45-plus to jump into the event before the event returns at level 55 in the future." More info is available via the Relics of the Gree event blog.

MassivelySWTOR's Gree event returns May 21 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playgreegree-eventlucasartsrelics-of-the-greesci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorswtor-eventthe-old-republictorFri, 17 May 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Defiance PC client half off through Sunday for some users [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/defiance-pc-client-half-off-through-sunday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/defiance-pc-client-half-off-through-sunday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/defiance-pc-client-half-off-through-sunday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Defiance concept art
Were you waiting for Trion to drop Defiance's $59.99 launch price point before taking a look? That day has arrived, as the B2P shooter MMO is now available for $29.99 for some users. The promotion runs through Sunday, May 19th, and it applies to the PC version of the sci-fi title.

Defiance is also available on the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3, but as of press time the console versions still feature launch-day pricing. You can learn more about the PC version via our launch week diary series and our livestream channel.

[Thanks fueldbygin!]

[Updated: We have clarified that the promotion is available only for those whose accounts have been flagged for it by Trion. A second sale on Steam should help those who aren't eligible for this sale.]

MassivelyDefiance PC client half off through Sunday for some users [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkark-hunterarkfalldefiancedefiance-half-offdefiance-pcmmo-shooterpvpsci-fishootersyfythird-person-shootertpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvxboxFri, 17 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: PlanetSide 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/why-i-play-planetside-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/why-i-play-planetside-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/why-i-play-planetside-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

PlanetSide 2 screenshot
I was this close to saving myself a lot of time by finishing this article with only a few simple words: Why do I play PlanetSide 2? Because it's fun. I'm pretty sure my boss would want me to expand on it just a bit, however, but let me drive those three words home: Because it's fun. I think we are all familiar with the word "fun," but it's something that we really don't hear enough about in MMOs. I don't think we play MMOs mainly because they're fun; I think we play them because they pull out other emotions in us, emotions like wonder or awe. They might help fill in social needs that are sometimes hard to fill out in real life. These are all positive and worthy reactions, but they're different from sheer fun.

I have oodles of fun in PlanetSide 2. Gobs of it. Barrels of fun. The fun is powerful in this one. You get the point. PlanetSide 2 actually makes me laugh to myself, makes me yell at the screen -- you know, those noises you hear from someone who is having a blast. Of course, there are a few other reasons I play PlanetSide 2 as well, so I'll fill you in on those.

Continue reading Why I Play: PlanetSide 2

MassivelyWhy I Play: PlanetSide 2 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>editorialfeaturedfpsmassively-metametammo-shootermmofpsnostalgiaop-edopinionplanetsideplanetside-2ps2sandboxsci-fishootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentwhy-i-playFri, 17 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bungie quashes rumors that Destiny might come to the PlayStation Vita]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/bungie-squashes-rumors-that-destiny-might-come-to-the-playstatio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/bungie-squashes-rumors-that-destiny-might-come-to-the-playstatio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/bungie-squashes-rumors-that-destiny-might-come-to-the-playstatio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bungie squashes rumors that Destiny might come to the PlayStation Vita
Some rumors recently started circulating regarding Bungie's upcoming title, Destiny, and the PlayStation Vita. Bungie confirmed that these rumors are false and that Destiny will not be revealed on the PlayStation Vita (despite some previous vague hints to the contrary in the preorder page's source code).

The rumors started after the release of an image that hinted at a Bungie game coming to PS Vita in 2014 called Destiny of Spirits. Given that Sony trademarked the name Destiny of Spirits, something may still be afoot there.

Destiny officially launches for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PlayStation4 some time next year.

MassivelyBungie quashes rumors that Destiny might come to the PlayStation Vita originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungieconsoledestinydestiny-of-spiritsplaystationplaystation-vitaps-vitaps3ps4rumorrumorssci-fishooterxboxxbox-360Thu, 16 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[STO's Legacy of Romulus expansion adding Nimbus adventure zone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/stos-legacy-of-romulus-expansion-adding-nimbus-adventure-zone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/stos-legacy-of-romulus-expansion-adding-nimbus-adventure-zone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/stos-legacy-of-romulus-expansion-adding-nimbus-adventure-zone/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Trek Online - Paradise City
Cryptic is pumping out the Star Trek Online dev blogs as the game's Legacy of Romulus expansion draws near. The latest comes to us from content designer Sean "Commander Ander" McCann, and it's all about the Nimbus adventure zone.

Nimbus is a crime-ridden locale currently lorded over by the Orion Syndicate. The new episode series Wasteland takes gamers all over the planet, from the run-down fugitive haven of Paradise City to a destroyed ship that doubles as an Orion stronghold to a Gorn-filled canyon that houses some sort of mysterious project.

Nimbus also boasts dailies, open missions, and accolade rewards for said missions and for exploration. More details are yours at the official STO website.

MassivelySTO's Legacy of Romulus expansion adding Nimbus adventure zone originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playlegacy-of-romulusnimbusperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fisean-mccannstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosto-expansionWed, 15 May 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Unicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons: WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/unicorn-poop-beer-cans-and-housing-dungeons-wildstars-jeremy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/unicorn-poop-beer-cans-and-housing-dungeons-wildstars-jeremy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/unicorn-poop-beer-cans-and-housing-dungeons-wildstars-jeremy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Unicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2
"This is going to be the best game most of us have built in our lives," Carbine Studios Executive Producer Jeremy Gaffney said bluntly.

The game in question, of course, is WildStar, and it represents Gaffney's 10th or so trip through the beta development chute on the way to release. There's an undeniable note of pride and calm confidence in his voice as he talks about the baby that's growing inside Carbine's womb right now, and he was definitely not shy in opening up about all of the decisions and work the team's made as WildStar heads into its second trimester... er, closed beta test.

Before that, however, Gaffney provided a recap of the first closed beta test. He said that it was pretty limited, with only 2,000 players testing out the lowbie Exile zones. The team moved some of the elder game content down in level so that people could test it out, and developers spent some time doing impromptu Q&A sessions with players in the field. As a result, Carbine is ready to shift over to the Dominion side and greatly expand the beta in size and content. Read on for the full scoop on what the next step will entail.

Continue reading Unicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons: WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2

MassivelyUnicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons: WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addonsbetabeta-testbeta-testingcarbinecarbine-studioscb2closed-betaclosed-beta-2dominiondungeonfeaturedhousinghoustoninterviewinterviewsjeremy-gaffneymodsncsoftplayer-housingpreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fitestingwildstarwsWed, 15 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online seeks tourney commentators, plans dual character training for Odyssey]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/eve-onlines-11th-alliance-tourney-makes-changes-needs-commenta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/eve-onlines-11th-alliance-tourney-makes-changes-needs-commenta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/eve-onlines-11th-alliance-tourney-makes-changes-needs-commenta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EVE Online's 11th Alliance tourney makes changes, needs commentators
Want to be a part of EVE Online's 11th annual Alliance Tournament that starts on July 20th, 2013, but not from the cockpit of your ship? You can apply to be one of the PvP commentators who will discuss the tourney, tactics, and teams involved live on air with developers as well as providing commentary on matches as they unfold. Yes, live means you'll actually be in Iceland for this gig! Qualifications include having a valid passport, being over 21, having a sharp wit, and being well-versed in PvP. Full details for the application process are available on the official site.

If you'd prefer to participate in the battles themselves, note that there will be a few changes to the tourney from years past. To start, Alliance Tournament XI will run over only three weekends, not four. Second, qualifying rounds and group stages have been replaced by double elimination from the get go. Next, from the second weekend onward, two ship types will be banned from the match by team captains. And finally, to fly with an alliance you had to have been a member since downtime this morning. Dev blogs covering all the rules, the broadcast schedule, and sign-up details will be coming soon.

[Update: CCP has been busy today! The official site has now also been updated with a dev blog announcing that dual character training will ship with the Odyssey expansion next month.]

MassivelyEVE Online seeks tourney commentators, plans dual character training for Odyssey originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliance-tournamentAlliance-Tournament-XIccpccp-gamescommentatorseveeve-alliance-tournamenteve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsPvPsandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineWed, 15 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's DUST 514 launch impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/massivelys-dust-514-launch-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/massivelys-dust-514-launch-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/massivelys-dust-514-launch-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514 - Dropship and merc troops
Playing EVE on my couch is bizarre. I know, technically it's called DUST 514, but let's be serious. DUST is basically the beginnings of a massive EVE Online expansion if you subscribe to the notion that EVE is a virtual world as opposed to merely a strategy game featuring internet spaceships and internet drama.

I've played EVE in some strange places prior to this. In an airport terminal, for example. On my toilet, even (yes, nature occasionally calls in the middle of a fleet fight and thank God for laptops). But DUST marks the first -- OK, technically the second -- time I've ever played in New Eden with a controller.

Continue reading Massively's DUST 514 launch impressions

MassivelyMassively's DUST 514 launch impressions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconsoleconsolesdustdust-514dust-514-impressionsdust-514-reviewdust-hands-ondust-impressionsdust-revieweveeve-onlinefeaturedfpsinternet-spaceshipsmmofpspc-master-raceplaystationplaystation-3ps3sandboxsci-fishooterspreadsheets-onlineWed, 15 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jukebox Heroes: Defiance's soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/jukebox-heroes-defiances-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/jukebox-heroes-defiances-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/jukebox-heroes-defiances-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jukebox Heroes Defiance's soundtrack
First of all, I wish my first name were a cool animal. Bear McCreary has that on me, so it seems unfair that he's also a geek icon for his work on several beloved TV series (Battlestar Galactica, Eureka, The Walking Dead). And now the guy is composing the soundtrack of one of this spring's hottest MMOs? Where did I go wrong with my life?

Before I go and change my name to Sugar Glider Olivetti, I guess it's only fair that I put a lid on my hurt ego to give Defiance's score a fair listen. McCreary was tapped to create the music for both the MMO and the TV series, giving the crossover project a unified sound.

"I had to make sure that players could hang out in one area for long stretches of time without getting bored by repetitive music," McCreary wrote on his blog. "As a result, melody plays less of a role throughout many of these cues. The real stars of this music are the texture and colors."

Music has texture and colors? If Bear says it, then it must be. Let's dive in!

Continue reading Jukebox Heroes: Defiance's soundtrack

MassivelyJukebox Heroes: Defiance's soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkark-hunterarkfallbear-mccrearycomposercomposersdefiancefeaturedgame-musicjukeboxjukebox-heroesjustin-olivettimmo-jukeboxmmo-musicmmo-shootermusicopinionpvpsci-fishootersoundtracksoundtrackssyfythird-person-shootertpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvxboxTue, 14 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Combine your consoles and get new ships in Star Trek Online's expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/combine-your-consoles-and-get-new-ships-in-star-trek-onlines-ex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/combine-your-consoles-and-get-new-ships-in-star-trek-onlines-ex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/combine-your-consoles-and-get-new-ships-in-star-trek-onlines-ex/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Split and combine and split and combine and it's kind of tedious.
If you've already purchased the very expensive Legacy Pack for Star Trek Online's first expansion, there's good news to be had -- you just got more for your $125 investment. For one thing, you've got access to a new ship, the Haakona Advanced Warbird, an assault craft capable of separating into two units for maximum versatility. For another, you've got a set of uniforms based off of the Romulan outfits from the original series, if you want to really hit that "legacy" button as hard as you can.

Whether or not this entices you to drop some additional money, the latest development blog on the official site details the bonuses for slotting Romulan refit consoles together in Legacy of Romulus. These include buffs to turn rate, energy weapons, and defensive systems based on speed. The net result is that owners of both refit and retrofit versions of these vessels can access a new playstyle for the class, a new trick to surprise opponents of the Romulans. Which is apropos.

Gallery: Star Trek Online Gallery

MassivelyCombine your consoles and get new ships in Star Trek Online's expansion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosexpansionf2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerylegacy-of-romuluslegacy-packnewsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpre-purchasepweremusromulussci-fiset-bonusessetsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoTue, 14 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Citizen concept art shows off Orion III colony]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/star-citizen-concept-art-shows-off-orion-iii-colony/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/star-citizen-concept-art-shows-off-orion-iii-colony/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/star-citizen-concept-art-shows-off-orion-iii-colony/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Star Citizen - Armitage concept art
This time of night I've only got one thing on my mind, and that's dinner. Seriously, the Massively graveyard shift makes my stomach rumble. Fortunately Cloud Imperium is here to fill it up with some sweet, sweet Star Citizen concept art.

The main course is a trio of gorgeous images from the former colony world of Orion III. Armitage, as the world was also called, was "the site of the farthest human colony from Earth... and one of the first targets of the Vanduul menace."

After you've dined on the establishing aerial artwork, it's time for dessert in the form of some early sketches for specific planetary locations. Feast your eyes at the official Star Citizen website.

MassivelyStar Citizen concept art shows off Orion III colony originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armitagechris-robertscloud-imperiumcloud-imperium-gamescrowdfundinginternet-spaceshipskickstarterom-nom-nomorion-iiisandboxsci-fispaceshipstar-citizenstar-citizen-artstar-citizen-concept-artTue, 14 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's customization cash kitty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-customization-cash-kitty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-customization-cash-kitty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-customization-cash-kitty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon SWTOR's customization cash kitty
It's a hard thing to admit when you're wrong. But I admit that I was wrong about Star Wars: The Old Republic Update 2.1: Customization. Even as late as last night on The Republic, I believed that things like the new Appearance Designer might not cost players Cartel Coins to use, but now that the update has arrived, I admit that is certainly not the case. Had I known that it would cost CCs to so much as use the Appearance Designer, I would be in the camp of players upset about this update containing only Cartel items. If you define an expansion or DLC as additional content that costs money, then that is exactly what this update is.

I'm not against BioWare making money, and to be completely honest, I'm not upset about the company making money on many of these items. Perhaps through my own misunderstanding, I feel a bit cheated with the update. Let me break down the Update 2.1 items for us. I'll point out the good and the bad, and maybe you will understand my perspective, even if you don't agree.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's customization cash kitty

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's customization cash kitty originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appearance-designerbiowarecartel-coinscartel-marketcatharcollectionsCollections-uicustomizationeaelectronic-artsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorupdate-2.1Tue, 14 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vostok gearing up for Survarium alpha invites]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/vostok-gearing-up-for-survarium-alpha-invites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/vostok-gearing-up-for-survarium-alpha-invites/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/vostok-gearing-up-for-survarium-alpha-invites/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Vostok gearing up for Survarium alpha invites
Vostok's Survarium, a spiritual sequel to the STALKER series, is getting ready to send out alpha invites. A dev diary posted yesterday on the game's official forums says that the first wave will welcome 1,000 testers into the post-apocalyptic MMO shooter's fold. Vostok says that of those 1,000 testers, no less than 200 of them will be stressing the game's servers around the clock.

The dev diary also outlines what testers can expect from the early stages of the project. The alpha, for example, is "team-based PvP combat mode only," and even this is necessarily scaled down in order to ensure that key components like shooting, movement, and synchronization are working properly.

You can register for the Survarium alpha at the game's official website.

MassivelyVostok gearing up for Survarium alpha invites originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mmo-shooterpost-apocalypticsci-fishooterSurvariumsurvarium-alphavostokTue, 14 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newbie tips to surviving the DUST 514 experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/newbie-tips-to-surviving-the-dust-514-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/newbie-tips-to-surviving-the-dust-514-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/newbie-tips-to-surviving-the-dust-514-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Newbie tips to surviving the DUST 514 experience
It's DUST 514's launch day, and if you've hit dirt with your face more than your combat boots, then you might need a helping hand with CCP's MMO shooter. PlayStation Universe has posted a pair of guides to help new players get off to a strong start, and since Massively cares about each and every one of you, we wanted to pass them along so that you don't end up a shallow grave on an alien world.

The first guide is a hodge-podge of beginner's tips, and the second has to do with earning much-needed skill points. "In the early days, we think it's wise to hoard ISK and SP until a time when you're ready to decide on your specialization," the author writes. "Until then, the Militia Gear is good enough."

Good luck, soldiers! If you have any DUST 514 tips or tricks that you'd like to pass along to other Massively readers, please do so in the comments.

MassivelyNewbie tips to surviving the DUST 514 experience originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beginners-guideccpccp-gamesconsoledustdust-514eveeve-onlinefpsguideguideshintslaunchmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3releasesandboxsci-fishooterskill-pointssptipstricksTue, 14 May 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR customization update goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/swtor-customization-update-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/swtor-customization-update-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/swtor-customization-update-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

swtor customization launch trailer
With all of the glamor and glitter, fashion and fame coming to Star Wars: The Old Republic these days, it must either be a Jem and the Holograms expansion or Game Update 2.1: Customization. It's the patch that says that it's OK to be a vain, preening peacock as long as you're saving a galaxy far, far away, and it's totally live, like, right now.

Update 2.1 includes new dye modules, a collection interface, name changes an appearance editor, and the option to play as a member of the Cathar race.

Check out the update trailer after the break!

Continue reading SWTOR customization update goes live

MassivelySWTOR customization update goes live originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.12.1-updatebiowarecatharcustomizationdye-moduleeaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playgame-update-2.1jem-and-the-hologramslucasartsname-changessci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorupdate-2.1Tue, 14 May 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 launch-day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/dust-514-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/dust-514-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/dust-514-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Dust 514 launchday roundup
This is it, soldier! Training is over, and it's time to head out to war. DUST 514 settles today, officially launching into the New Eden universe also occupied by EVE Online. Available only on the PlayStation 3, this shooter pits forces against each other in a ground assault while orbital strikes rain down from EVE allies and enemies above. Are you ready?

Ah, trapped behind a desk for a while still, are you? Well, don't worry; if you won't have the opportunity to soothe your itchy trigger finger until later, we've got some things to tide you over until you can join the fray yourself. Check out the factional warfare, learn about rewards, and much more in the hands-on experiences, screenshots, videos, news, and impressions after the break.

Continue reading DUST 514 launch-day roundup

MassivelyDUST 514 launch-day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconsoledustdust-514eveeve-onlinefpslaunchlaunch-day-round-upmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3round-upsandboxsci-fishooterTue, 14 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Face of Mankind releases from-scratch engine tech demo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/face-of-mankind-releases-from-scratch-engine-tech-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/face-of-mankind-releases-from-scratch-engine-tech-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/face-of-mankind-releases-from-scratch-engine-tech-demo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Face of Mankind releases fromscratch engine tech demo
As part of its in-progress Kickstarter campaign, Face of Mankind is planning for funding beyond its original $50k goal. One of the stretch goals -- at $250k -- is to build an entirely new game engine with brand new art assets. And to help show off what we could expect with that new engine, Nexeon Technologies has released a tech demo video.

The video spotlights an interesting marriage of futuristic sci-fi structures with natural environments, without allowing one style to overcome the other. It also shows the night and day cycles, where Creative Director Marko Dieckmann explains that the contrast between the two will be much more significant than most other MMOs, allowing darkness to provide an "interesting strategy to combat."

With 23 days to go in the Kickstarter campaign, the company is currently at around the halfway mark for their 30-day goal, so we'll be watching this stretch goal with particular interest.

[Thanks to everyone who tipped us on this!]

Continue reading Face of Mankind releases from-scratch engine tech demo

MassivelyFace of Mankind releases from-scratch engine tech demo originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campaigncrowdfundingengineface-of-mankindkickstartermarko-diekmannnexeon-technologiessci-fitech-demovideoTue, 14 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Yet another D3 exploit, Star Citizen pay-to-win debate, and MOBA news]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/not-so-massively-yet-another-d3-exploit-star-citizen-pay-to-wi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/not-so-massively-yet-another-d3-exploit-star-citizen-pay-to-wi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/not-so-massively-yet-another-d3-exploit-star-citizen-pay-to-wi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively Yet another D3 exploit, Star Citizen paytowin debate, and MOBA news
Diablo III was hit with yet another exploit this week as players discovered a way to duplicate gold via a bug in the auction house. Blizzard responded by shutting down the auction house but did not perform a server rollback to reverse the damage. Star Citizen clarified its stance on the lifetime insurance available to veteran backers amidst debate over whether it gives early adopters an unfair advantage over other players. Path of Exile also released a new Letters of Wraeclast lore feature in its latest update, and MechWarrior Online's update 15 added a new Misery mech.

Dota 2 began preparations for its biggest world championship tournament yet with the release of a new Interactive Compendium that players can use to stay up to date with the matches. Rise of Immortals has now officially launched its Battle For Graxia revamp, and Infinite Crisis officially entered closed beta this week with the release of new champion The Joker. Finally, Smashmuck Champions released its hilarious new community-designed champion that's half platypus and half unicorn.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Yet another D3 exploit, Star Citizen pay-to-win debate, and MOBA news

MassivelyNot So Massively: Yet another D3 exploit, Star Citizen pay-to-win debate, and MOBA news originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbatmanbattle-for-graxiabattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchris-robertscloud-imperiumcompetitive-gamingd3dcdc-comicsdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadota-2e-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgothic-fantasygraxiaindieinfinite-crisisinsurancejokerkiz-studioslifetime-insurancemobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeropinionpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespvprise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgsandboxsci-fismashmuckstar-citizensupermanthe-jokerturbinevalvevideovideoswarner-broswonder-womanWraeclastMon, 13 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Story takes center stage in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/captains-log-story-takes-center-stage-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/captains-log-story-takes-center-stage-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/captains-log-story-takes-center-stage-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

STO Mars Utopia Planitia Yards
Now that Star Trek Online's expansion, The Legacy of Romulus has moved into open beta on the Tribble test server, I think it's high time I wrote about one of the biggest changes the game has ever seen. It's not just about what will occur in the game's story; it's how the story is being told.

Players who create a Romulan faction character when Star Trek Online launches the expansion on May 21st will experience something that simply hasn't been seen before in the game. Fair warning: I'll be writing a fair amount about what happens within the first dozen levels of gameplay, so if you're holding out to be surprised, know that there are spoilers after the jump!

Continue reading Captain's Log: Story takes center stage in Star Trek Online

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Story takes center stage in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boffbridge officerscaptains-logcrypticcryptic-studiosdoffduty officerduty officer systemexpansionf2pfactionfactionsfeaturedfederationfree-to-playkdfklingonslegacy of romulusopinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwereputationromulan republicRomulanssci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarfleetstoStoryOfTheYearstorytellingtovan-khevMon, 13 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Roguelikes inspire EVE Online's revamped hacking minigame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/roguelikes-inspire-eve-onlines-revamped-hacking-minigame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/roguelikes-inspire-eve-onlines-revamped-hacking-minigame/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/roguelikes-inspire-eve-onlines-revamped-hacking-minigame/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EVE Online hacking screen
June 4th is coming up fast, and with it EVE Online's new Odyssey expansion. The content drop will feature improved explorer pursuits, with particular emphasis on removing the "'sit and wait' aspect of exploration gameplay" in favor of "something interesting to do."

In the case of today's dev blog, the interesting thing to do is hacking, and CCP says that it drew inspiration from roguelikes for the new minigame's "procedurally generated levels, turn-based combat, and permadeath." You can read all about it on the official EVE Online website.

MassivelyRoguelikes inspire EVE Online's revamped hacking minigame originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesdev-blogeveeve-expansioneve-hackingeve-onlineeve-online-odysseyexpansiongame-mechanicshackinginternet-spaceshipsminigamesodysseysandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineMon, 13 May 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Defiance 'TV tie-in' patch now live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/defiance-tv-tie-in-patch-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/defiance-tv-tie-in-patch-now-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/defiance-tv-tie-in-patch-now-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This is Rynn from Defiance
I've been waiting a long time to type "transmedia synergy" in a news post again, and that day is finally here! Yes, Defiance has patched, says FPS General, and the update is known unofficially as the TV tie-in patch. And you what that means, folks. Say it with me.

Traaaaaansmedia syyyyyyyyyynergy!

The content centers on an Irathient named Rynn who crosses over from TV show to MMO according to producer Nathan Richardsson's latest dev letter. Players should seek out lawman Jon Cooper and complete the new Episode mission called The Vagabond to reveal Rynn's motives and "unlock more missions and rewards."

MassivelyDefiance 'TV tie-in' patch now live originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkark-hunterarkfalldefiancedefiance-tv-patchmmo-shooterpvprynnsci-fishootersyfythird-person-shootertpstransmedia-synergytriontrion-worldstvtv-patchxboxMon, 13 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Legacy of Romulus adding warp cores to Star Trek Online ships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/legacy-of-romulus-adding-warp-cores-to-star-trek-online-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/legacy-of-romulus-adding-warp-cores-to-star-trek-online-ships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/legacy-of-romulus-adding-warp-cores-to-star-trek-online-ships/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Trek Online - This is some sort of warp core
So, warp cores. Warp cores are a thing in Star Trek, but up until very recently they haven't been much of a thing in Star Trek Online. The upcoming Legacy of Romulus expansion will change that by adding cores to every ship in the game, according to the latest STO dev blog.

Systems designer Jeff "AdjudicatorHawk" Hamilton pens the diary, and in it he talks about Cryptic's desire to alter the feel of STO's space combat ever so slightly while simultaneously providing captains with new tools for both exploration and conquest. If you're fond of space combat the way it is, though, don't worry. Hamilton says that the new warp core mechanics can be "largely ignored at little cost" if you prefer.

Either way, you'll probably want to read up on all the little details at the STO website.

MassivelyLegacy of Romulus adding warp cores to Star Trek Online ships originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playjeff-hamiltonlegacy-of-romulusmaximum-warpperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestowarpwarp-coresMon, 13 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Nexus Telegraph: Getting from place to place in WildStar]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/the-nexus-telegraph-getting-from-place-to-place-in-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/the-nexus-telegraph-getting-from-place-to-place-in-wildstar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/the-nexus-telegraph-getting-from-place-to-place-in-wildstar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

There are so many things wrong with that space blimp that I'm not sure where to start.
Nexus is a big place. We saw last week what it's going to be like getting from spot to spot in a smaller sense with last week's overview of movement, but there's more to movement in WildStar. After all, there are a lot of zones stretched out over big chunks of land, and even if you're sprinting as much as you can you'll eventually find that you can't traverse an entire continent by foot, much less the ocean.

No, for this sort of transport you need something more robust. You'll need vehicles, both personal and otherwise. You'll need boats, you'll need ships, you'll need something that can move faster than you can move even if you can jump out of a dodge. But a lot of what you need will depend upon what the game's layout looks like, so it's time to fire up the speculation machine and ask some questions, starting with those of location.

Continue reading The Nexus Telegraph: Getting from place to place in WildStar

MassivelyThe Nexus Telegraph: Getting from place to place in WildStar originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studioscolumnfeaturedmobilityncsoftnexusnexus-telegraphopinionsandparksci-fantasysci-fispeculationthe-nexus-telegraphtransporttransportationwildstarzonesMon, 13 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Player panel submissions open for SOE Live 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/player-panel-submissions-open-for-soe-live-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/player-panel-submissions-open-for-soe-live-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/player-panel-submissions-open-for-soe-live-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Player panel submissions open for SOE Live 2013
Last year, SOE threw a new ingredient into its convention mix -- player panels. The result was such a hit that the studio is not only bringing them back this year, but extending their availability; Sunday has been added to the player panels schedule, and that means there are plenty of openings!

Do you have a subject involving any SOE game that you think would be of interest and benefit others? Maybe you are a whiz at livesteaming or you have primo tips and tricks on cosplay to dispense. What about sharing your fan site or holding a raid clinic? Whatever your idea, submit your proposal by 3:00 a.m EDT June 1st for consideration. If selected, you and up to three other panel members will receive All Access passes to SOE Live 2013 (no other expenses are covered, including food, travel, or add-ons). Panel selection -- which is not on a first-come, first-served basis -- will be completed mid-June.

MassivelyPlayer panel submissions open for SOE Live 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmoconconsoleconsolesconventiondc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodragondragonsdragons-propheteqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq1eq2eqiieqneventeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextf2pfan-fairefantasyfpsfrfree-realmsfree-to-playhousinginfernuminfernum-productionskid-friendlykidskids-mmolas-vegasmmo-shootermmofpsplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-3playstation3psps1ps2ps3runewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fishootersoesoe-fan-fairesoe-livesoe-live-2013sonysony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroestelonvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgMon, 13 May 2013 11:30:00 EST