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[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[Take a gander at Final Fantasy XIV's character customization possibilities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/take-a-gander-at-final-fantasy-xivs-character-customization-pos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/take-a-gander-at-final-fantasy-xivs-character-customization-pos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/take-a-gander-at-final-fantasy-xivs-character-customization-pos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Take a gander at Final Fantasy XIV's character customization possibilities
The team at Square-Enix has a treat for fans eagerly awaiting Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn today: several screenshots showing off the possibilities that await in the updated character creation tool.

Several interesting looks are on display here, including vibrant hair color, hair styles, tattoos, long hair for females, plenty of sliders, and new colors for eyes. Check out these radical looks in the gallery below!

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn screenshots and concept art

MassivelyTake a gander at Final Fantasy XIV's character customization possibilities originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-creationconsoleconsolesfantasyffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgalleryred-eyesscreenshotssquaresquare-enixtattooswhiskersFri, 17 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your epeen on with these new Final Fantasy XIV screenies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/get-your-epeen-on-with-these-new-final-fantasy-xiv-screenies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/get-your-epeen-on-with-these-new-final-fantasy-xiv-screenies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/get-your-epeen-on-with-these-new-final-fantasy-xiv-screenies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Get your epeen on with these new Final Fantasy XIV screenies
My, that's a large... sword that you're holding at a very interesting angle, there. Compensating for something, perhaps? Maybe it's impotence caused by the long wait until Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn comes to a home PC or PS3 near you?

Then we have the cure! No, it's not a little blue pill; it's a new gallery full of FFXIV screenshots and concept art from the upcoming reboot. Check them out and feel assured that your epeen will once again be in action.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn screenshots and concept art


[Source: Square-Enix]

MassivelyGet your epeen on with these new Final Fantasy XIV screenies originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept-artconsoleconsolese-peenepeenfantasyffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgalleryscreenshotssquaresquare-enixWed, 15 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: A light in the dark]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/one-shots-a-light-in-the-dark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/one-shots-a-light-in-the-dark/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/12/one-shots-a-light-in-the-dark/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots A light in the dark
Reader Andrew is quite impressed with the look of Neverwinter, saying that it is visually "amazing!" Without descending into hyperbole, I have to agree. It's a good-looking title with plenty of interesting details if you take the time to stop and smell the corpses.

Corpses? Well, Andrew is standing in the middle of a whole bunch of dead folks here with his spectral flashlight (AA batteries not included). I wouldn't touch that treasure chest if I were you, Andrew. I'm guessing it might be a mimic. Oh no!

As we stumble through the dark, what other visions might we encounter in this week's One Shots?

Continue reading One Shots: A light in the dark

MassivelyOne Shots: A light in the dark originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotscrypticcryptic-studiosdnden-masseen-masse-entertainmenteqeq1everquestf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryneverwinterone-shotsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpics-or-it-didnt-happenpwereader-screenshotsreader-submissionssci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoterauser-submissionsSun, 12 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Framing my first foray in Darkfall]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/choose-my-adventure-framing-my-first-foray-in-darkfall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/choose-my-adventure-framing-my-first-foray-in-darkfall/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/choose-my-adventure-framing-my-first-foray-in-darkfall/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Choose My Adventure Framing my first foray in Darkfall
Break time's over! Now it's time to roll up our sleeves and get back to work building our latest Choose My Adventure. The first order of business is to establish the framework for the rest of our Darkfall Unholy Wars (mis)adventures.

Of course, we can't just build willy-nilly; we need to follow a plan. And as with any major construction project, we couldn't really move forward until said plan was OKed by the planning commission. So while we waited for the foundation to set, we sought approval for which type of structure to base our continuing adventures on. And as is wont to happen with committees, there was trouble coming to a consensus; even though the proposed models were all pretty similar, disagreement arose as to which to pick.

However, after some debate (one proposal won by only one vote!), we finally got the go ahead: The final word was to build a Mahirim Deadeye. I'm on it, boss!

Gallery: Choose My Adventure: Darkfall Unholy Wars

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Framing my first foray in Darkfall

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Framing my first foray in Darkfall originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agonaventurinecharacter-creationcharacter-customizationchoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-darkfallchoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriecmadarkfalldarkfall-unholy-warsdffantasyfeaturedfirst-impressiongalleryhands-onopen-pvpopinionpollpollspvpreaders-choicesandboxscreenshotstutorialtutorialsunholy-warsvotevotingWed, 08 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sneak a peek at various vessels in World of Warships]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/sneak-a-peek-at-various-vessels-in-world-of-warships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/sneak-a-peek-at-various-vessels-in-world-of-warships/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/sneak-a-peek-at-various-vessels-in-world-of-warships/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Sneak a peek at various vessels in World of Warships
From tanks to planes and now ships, Wargaming is definitely known for the exquisite detail of its WWII-period vehicles. And today the company released new screenshots and renderings showing off that detail in the battleships of the upcoming naval MMO World of Warships.

While the screenshots show a variety of vessels, the renderings draw attention to the USS New Mexico, a battleship that served the US Navy for decades and was a force to be reckoned with during World War II. Get a glimpse of some of the giant warships setting sail in WoWS in the gallery below.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

Gallery: World of Warships

MassivelySneak a peek at various vessels in World of Warships originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgalleryhistoricalpvpscreenshotsUSS-New-Mexicowarwargaming.netwarshipsworld-of-battleshipsworld-of-warshipswowpwowsWWIIWWII-era-battleshipsTue, 07 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: The dark night dashes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/one-shots-the-dark-night-dashes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/one-shots-the-dark-night-dashes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/05/one-shots-the-dark-night-dashes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots The dark night rises
Just because you have passing familiarity with Superman and Batman doesn't mean you know jack about the real superheroes who do all of the dirty work while the headliners steal the signal light. For instance, have you met this guy? If you haven't, let reader Russell make your acquaintance.

"This is my Brawling Juggernaut in DC Universe Online, known by many as Orange Crush," Russell begins with aplomb. "Here he is in pursuit of justice, on the way to laying some Crush down on the villains of our great and beloved Gotham City!"

Will Orange Crush arrive in time? Tune in to the rest of this column after the break!

Continue reading One Shots: The dark night dashes

MassivelyOne Shots: The dark night dashes originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfactionfantasyfree-to-playfuncomgalleriesgalleryhorrorlucasartsmythologyone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenplaystation-3playstation3ps3reader-screenshotsreader-submissionssci-fantasysci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssecret-worldskill-basedsoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubscriptionlesssuperherosuperheroesswtorterathe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtortswuser-submissionsSun, 05 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon's Prophet shows off screenshots of Wynnadia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/dragons-prophet-shows-off-screenshots-of-wynnadia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/dragons-prophet-shows-off-screenshots-of-wynnadia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/dragons-prophet-shows-off-screenshots-of-wynnadia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Dark secrets, sure, but mostly it looks like a lovely countryside vacation.
Despite the name of the game, Dragon's Prophet does not exclusively feature dragons and prophets thereof. It also has lands for all of that to occupy. The Wynnadia zone even has houses and people living there, providing a rich background for all prophet- and dragon-related antics. It's a pleasant zone filled with rolling hills, farming communities, undead monstrosities clawing their way up from the depths, and charming beaches.

Wait, do we need to go back to that middle one?

Once in game, players will be tasked with exploring the Accursed Tower and the Nameless Keep, full of dark secrets and alluring treasure. But it's not all monster-stomping day, as the zone is also home to the cities of Zarland and Lilia, with the former composed mainly of outcasts and refugees and the latter serving as an impressive naval stronghold. While we're assured that there's danger in the zone, all of the pictures in the gallery below look more inviting than deadly.

[Source: Sony Online Entertainment press release]

Gallery: Dragon's Prophet

MassivelyDragon's Prophet shows off screenshots of Wynnadia originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>areasbackstorydragondragonsdragons-prophetgalleriesgallerygame-regionshousinginfernuminfernum-productionsloreregionsrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmentwynnadiazone-previewszonesWed, 01 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Thar be dragons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/one-shots-thar-be-dragons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/one-shots-thar-be-dragons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/28/one-shots-thar-be-dragons/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Thar be dragons
It would be a rare fantasy MMO that didn't have a posse of dragons roaming the land (or flying through the skies), and Guild Wars 2 certainly does not break that trend. It doesn't mean that going head-to-head with one is any less intimidating, however.

Reader Paul sent in this little meet-and-greet with Puff, saying it was when his Asuran Mesmer first encountered a dragon. Let's just hope he remained alive to have a second encounter. Asurans often look like popcorn chicken to dragonkind.

It's not just flying lizards in this week's One Shots! What wonders await you, I wonder?

Continue reading One Shots: Thar be dragons

MassivelyOne Shots: Thar be dragons originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playcamelotclassic-mmoconsoleconsolesdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsfantasyffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgalleriesgalleryguild-wars-2gw2mythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenpvpreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsrvrscreenshotscreenshotssquaresquare-enixuser-submissionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 28 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 launches on May 14]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/27/dust-514-launches-on-may-14/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/27/dust-514-launches-on-may-14/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/27/dust-514-launches-on-may-14/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514 launches on May 14
CCP Games has just announced at this weekend's EVE Fanfest that the wait for DUST 514 will soon be over: DUST 514 is launching on May 14th.

The free-to-play PlayStation 3 shooter is built to connect with CCP's sci-fi MMORPG sandbox, EVE Online; players in one game can directly influence the players in the other.

"Gamers can look forward to an ever-progressing game, built on the experience CCP has gathered over the past decade, as new features and upgrades are rolled out for years to come," declares the press release posted today. Massively published a hands-on with the game in January.

[Source: CCP press release]

Gallery: DUST 514

Continue reading DUST 514 launches on May 14

MassivelyDUST 514 launches on May 14 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconsoledustdust-514eveeve-fanfesteve-fanfest-2013eve-onlineeve-online-fanfesteve-online-fanfest-2013eventevent-coveragefanfestfpsgalleriesgalleryicelandlaunchlaunch-datemassively-event-coveragemmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3rekyjaviksandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsshooterSat, 27 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Earthrise: First Impact screenshots unveiled]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/new-earthrise-first-impact-screenshots-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/new-earthrise-first-impact-screenshots-unveiled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/new-earthrise-first-impact-screenshots-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Earthrise: First Impact
We're sure many sci-fi sandbox fans have been looking forward to the (re)launch of Earthrise: First Impact since German studio SilentFuture took the helm in May of last year. Unfortunately, those fans are going to have to wait a bit longer before they can get their hands on the game in earnest, but in the meantime, SilentFuture has released a new bevy of screenshots to help satiate their hunger.

And we've gotta say, they look pretty darn spiffy. The screens include an arid desert outpost, mysterious ruins admist a lush, verdant jungle, and what appears to be an absurdly oversized artillery gun, amongst other things. It would certainly appear that the folks at SilentFuture have been hard at work, and although screenshots are no substitute for actual gameplay, they're still a feast for the eyes nonetheless. So how about checking them out in the gallery below?

[Source: SilentFuture press release]

Gallery: Earthrise: First Impact

MassivelyNew Earthrise: First Impact screenshots unveiled originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthrisef2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymmo-shooterpost-apocalypticpvpsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsshootersilent-futuresilentfuturethird-person-shooterThu, 25 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Yo ho ho!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/one-shots-yo-ho-ho/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/one-shots-yo-ho-ho/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/one-shots-yo-ho-ho/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Yo ho ho!
There's probably no gulf as wide as the one between historical pirates and the pop culture versions that we venerate. As a guy who had a pirate-themed 30th birthday party, I can't say that I'm against our off-kilter brand of scallywags. Neither is reader Phinneas, who sent in our featured screenshot from Pirate101.

"These shots are of the main starting area with my fearsome pirate looking to the horizon for adventures ahead," he writes.

Best of luck to ye, laddie! May the wind be at your back, your enemies in Davey Jones' locker, and a bottle of ginger ale in your belly! Yet pirates are only the beginning of today's adventure through One Shots...

Continue reading One Shots: Yo ho ho!

MassivelyOne Shots: Yo ho ho! originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbiowarebring-back-one-shotsbuy-to-playeaelectronic-artsf2pfactionfamilyfantasyfree-to-playfuncomgalleriesgalleryguild-wars-2gw2horrorkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlucasartsmythologyncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenpiratepirate101piratesreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssci-fantasysci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssecret-worldskill-basedstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubscriptionlessswtorthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtortswuser-submissionsSun, 21 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV shows off the jobs and professions of 2.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/final-fantasy-xiv-shows-off-the-jobs-and-professions-of-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/final-fantasy-xiv-shows-off-the-jobs-and-professions-of-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/final-fantasy-xiv-shows-off-the-jobs-and-professions-of-2-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Final Fantasy XIV shows off the jobs and professions of 20
As Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn takes shape, so does its website. Square-Enix has updated the official site with scads of new screenshots for many of the game's jobs and professions. We've saved you the time it would take to comb through the entire site hunting each of these down by compiling all of them in one handy-dandy gallery. Behold!

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn jobs and professions

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV shows off the jobs and professions of 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classclassesconsoleconsolesfantasyffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgalleryprofessionprofessionsscreenshotssquaresquare-enixThu, 18 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythology-inspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/mythology-inspired-the-lost-titans-launches-open-beta-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/mythology-inspired-the-lost-titans-launches-open-beta-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/mythology-inspired-the-lost-titans-launches-open-beta-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Mythologyinspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today
The Lost Titans, a free-to-play fantasy game inspired by real Egyptian, Greek, and Roman mythologies launches into open beta tonight with the creation of a brand-new Olympus server. At 10 p.m. EDT, doors open to a revamped beginners' area as well as new mounts, pets, and events. Players can test their luck by spinning Fortuna's Wheel for a chance at prizes or delve deeper into the Core of Aristos to avenge their Titan ruler Hyperion.

Open beta also brings new PvP features, including a dueling system and a battleground where players can mount up and face both bosses and other players simultaneously. For a sneak peek of the action, check out the images in the gallery below and the trailer after the break.

[Source: ZQGAME press release]

Gallery: The Lost Titans

Continue reading Mythology-inspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today

MassivelyMythology-inspired The Lost Titans launches open beta today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playfreemiumgalleriesgallerymicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmountsmythologypetspremiumpvpscreenshotscreenshotsThe-Lost-TitansvideozqgameThu, 18 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest's Shadow of Fear lets you hear the voice of Luclin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/everquests-shadow-of-fear-lets-you-hear-the-voice-of-luclin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/everquests-shadow-of-fear-lets-you-hear-the-voice-of-luclin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/everquests-shadow-of-fear-lets-you-hear-the-voice-of-luclin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Shadow of Fear screenshot
EverQuest's Shadow of Fear just launched; it's the update and second part to the Rain of Fear expansion that released in November. Yes, you read that right: This is the old-school MMO's 19th expansion. If that's not impressive enough for, the list of content that comes with the patch should hold over vets for a long time. If you're level 100, you'll be able to enjoy new zones and content and brand-new mechanics.

The essence of fear is literally raining down in the form of crystalline shards. While players fight to restore balance, an ancient city has been resurrected with no explanation. Mysteries? New content? New spells, items, missions, raids quests, and storylines to discover? Yeah, we wanted in on that. We hung out with producer Thom Terrazas, lead designer Jonathan Caraker, assistant lead designer Julie Burness, and assistant lead game designer and Douglas Cronkhite for a video tour of the new update. Read on to hear what we thought and catch the brand-new trailer too.

Gallery: EverQuest Shadow of Fear expansion screenshots

Continue reading EverQuest's Shadow of Fear lets you hear the voice of Luclin

MassivelyEverQuest's Shadow of Fear lets you hear the voice of Luclin originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Douglas-Cronkhiteeqeq1everquestexpansionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playftpgalleriesgalleryJonathan-Carakerlaunchlaunch-daylaunchesluclinpreviewpreviewsscreenshotscreenshotsshadow-of-fearSOEsonySony-Online-EntertainmenttrailertrailersvideovideosThu, 18 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are head starts worth the hassle?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/the-daily-grind-are-head-starts-worth-the-hassle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/the-daily-grind-are-head-starts-worth-the-hassle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/the-daily-grind-are-head-starts-worth-the-hassle/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Daily Grind Are head starts worth the hassle
We're getting into the spring launch season, what with Age of Wushu, Defiance, and Neverwinter (not to mention expansions and whatnot). It's an exciting time of year, kind of the groundhog coming out of his digital hole to break the cold dry spell of winter.

As with any launch, there's usually the question of early access and how much you're willing to jump through hoops to get in a couple days before the rest of the crowd. As a player who's done anything he can to get in there on the pre-launch day, I can attest that it's pretty important for me. I like knowing I'm in there right at the start, that I can reserve my names, and that I don't have to twiddle my thumbs while knowing that other players are enjoying the game.

But that's just me. What about you? Are head starts worth the extra effort and money to join? Do those extra few days matter in any significant way?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Are head starts worth the hassle? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-wushubring-back-one-shotsdefianceearly-accessgalleriesgalleryhead-startneverwinterone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsscreenshotscreenshotsuser-submissionsWed, 17 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlanetSide 2 mobile app guns down office productivity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/planetside-2-mobile-app-guns-down-office-productivity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/planetside-2-mobile-app-guns-down-office-productivity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/planetside-2-mobile-app-guns-down-office-productivity/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

PlanetSide 2 mobile app screenshot
Developing a mobile app to go along with your MMO is so in right now. Sure, not every developer can afford such a luxury, but it's always good to see three-dimensional developers include our mobile devices in the fun. These apps are also a good way to suck players into a game and keep them there thanks to the word of the day: accessibility. While some player is at her office, theoretically working for a living, she is also busily checking in on her favorite game. Brilliant! Even if the application offers just information without much interaction, it can be a great way to keep players plugged in.

SOE has just published a mobile app for Planetside 2, and we thought it would be great to check out how the apps worked alongside the game and how it performs across different devices.

Gallery: PlanetSide 2 app screenshots

Continue reading PlanetSide 2 mobile app guns down office productivity

MassivelyPlanetSide 2 mobile app guns down office productivity originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappapp-storefeaturedfpsgalleriesgallerygoogle-playIOSmmofpsmobileplanetsideplanetside-2screenshotscreenshotsSOESony-Online-EntertainmentTue, 16 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Neverwinter's Rothe Valley]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/massively-exclusive-neverwinters-rothe-valley/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/massively-exclusive-neverwinters-rothe-valley/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/massively-exclusive-neverwinters-rothe-valley/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive Neverwinter's Rothe Valley
With Neverwinter's open beta right around the corner, now is the time to get a good feel for this game world. Cryptic's released a new video and screenshots on a new region called Rothe Valley. It's a peaceful farming community that's come under attack by evil Drow who have enslaved the people. The spider-queen Lolth is behind it all, and players who want to help out the farmers will be entering her dark domain for a counter-attack.

Get your first look at Rothe Valley in the gallery below and in the video after the jump.

Gallery: Neverwinter: Rothe Valley

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Neverwinter's Rothe Valley

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Neverwinter's Rothe Valley originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots Soggy beginnings
Dungeons and Dragons Online newcomers and veterans alike are quite familiar with the waterlogged Sahuagin and all of their wacky antics. Basically think "level 1 mermaids from hell" and you're right with the rest of us. It's a good thing that the game doesn't have smell-o-vision because the tutorial would be reeking of a fishery, that's all I'm saying.

Reader Sharvis photographed his initial journey through the game and delivered this familiar image of an odd cellar. "Oh great, the Wavecrest Tavern's basement has flooded," he writes. "And who let the Sahuagin in? They're making everything look tacky again!"

We'll get the sump pump working while you check out the rest of today's player-submitted screenshots!

Continue reading One Shots: Soggy beginnings

MassivelyOne Shots: Soggy beginnings originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 14 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabetabiowarebring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedcasualconquestddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchhipsterlucasartsone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenpvpreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptinyspecktortriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentultima-onlineunlauncheninguouser-submissionsSun, 14 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gloria Victis teases with more screenshots, talk of alpha two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/gloria-victis-teases-with-more-screenshots-talk-of-alpha-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/gloria-victis-teases-with-more-screenshots-talk-of-alpha-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/gloria-victis-teases-with-more-screenshots-talk-of-alpha-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Gloria Victis screenshot
Black Eye Games' brand-spanking-new MMO Gloria Vicitis is promising a lot; realistic weather effects, day and night cycles, and NPCs that don't just stand there are all on the game's agenda. Although an original attempt to crowdfund the game was unsuccessful, it looks as if the team isn't giving up as testing marches on. Only a small number of testers are currently in the pre-alpha test; test number two is apparently not far beyond the horizon. The developers are also opening up crowd-funding to increase server capacity for even more testers.

The studio is calling its game "paradigm breaking" and "realistic," which seem like pretty heavy words, but a new batch of pre-alpha screenshots does hint at its potential. What do you think?

Gallery: Gloria Victis pre-alpha screenshots

MassivelyGloria Victis teases with more screenshots, talk of alpha two originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabetablack-eye-gamescrowdfundingfacebookgalleriesgallerygloria-victiskickstarterpre-alphascreenshotscreenshotstesttestingSun, 07 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Paging the burn ward]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/one-shots-paging-the-burn-ward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/one-shots-paging-the-burn-ward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/one-shots-paging-the-burn-ward/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Great balls o' fire!
It's a little amazing, when you think about it, that all of these magic-users who prance around in extremely flammable robes don't suffer from third-degree burns more than we see. Or maybe the game is hiding the awful, scarred truth from us. In any case, our opening screenshot this week should have resulted in a quick trip to the ER for both parties.

"This is a simple yet fun battle in Vindictus' early levels," reader Carolina says. "I love the detail of the damaged shoe on my spellcaster character."

Forget the human element; now the shoes are the ones suffering for our casual disregard of fiery magic! If you can get past the misery of the moment, we've got plenty of other great one shots this week for you to admire.

Continue reading One Shots: Paging the burn ward

MassivelyOne Shots: Paging the burn ward originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acac2action-mmoanetarenanetasherons-callasherons-call-2bring-back-one-shotsclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryguild-warsgwncsoftnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxscreenshotscreenshotstabula-rasaturbineturbine-entertainmentuser-submissionsvindictusSun, 07 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2013: Activision's pursuit of photorealism]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/gdc-2013-activisions-pursuit-of-photorealism/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/gdc-2013-activisions-pursuit-of-photorealism/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/gdc-2013-activisions-pursuit-of-photorealism/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

GDC 2013 Activision's pursuit of photorealism
At a GDC panel titled "Next Generation Character Rendering" last week, research and development staffers at Activision-Blizzard showed off some stunning computer-generated portraits. The catch? They don't represent in-game assets; instead, they showcase the tech behind the graphics.

So while these we won't be seeing the lady above as the protagonist of Titan, it's reasonable to expect that the characters of Blizzard's future games could look just as convincing and real. As I looked on from the audience, my iPhone's camera focused on the projected slides as if they beheld actual faces.

Continue reading GDC 2013: Activision's pursuit of photorealism

MassivelyGDC 2013: Activision's pursuit of photorealism originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardconconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013graphicsjorge-jimenezmassively-event-coveragephotorealismpreviewpreviewsscreenshotscreenshotsvideovideosThu, 04 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Listen to the entire Guild Wars 2 Super Adventure Box soundtrack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/listen-to-the-entire-guild-wars-2-super-adventure-box-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/listen-to-the-entire-guild-wars-2-super-adventure-box-soundtrack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/listen-to-the-entire-guild-wars-2-super-adventure-box-soundtrack/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Listen to the entire Guild Wars 2 Super Adventure Box soundtrack
Enjoying your Super Adventure Box groove in Guild Wars 2? Then you've probably noticed the kicking 8-bit tunes as well. ArenaNet Composers Maclaine Diemer and Leif Chappelle put together 26 minutes of brand-new (and old-school) music tracks to power the super adventure, and you can listen to the whole shebang on SoundCloud.

"It's not easy reducing a lush, bombastic orchestral piece into just the four channels we have available to us for 8-bit music," Diemer said. "After the initial statement of the theme, a galloping rhythm and bass line with more of a classic Zelda feel kick in, followed by a new melody that bridges the gap between the Guild Wars 2 we know and love and the world of Super Adventure Box."

What's even better is that each of the tracks has composer notes attached to them, so if you're interested in how the duo came up with these catchy tunes and what inspired them, your curiosity shall soon be sated.

MassivelyListen to the entire Guild Wars 2 Super Adventure Box soundtrack originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetapril-foolsapril-fools-2013april-fools-dayarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyfeaturedguild-wars-2gw2humorjokeLeif-ChappelleMaclaine-Diemermotomusicncsoftsabscorescreenshotscreenshotssoundtracksuper-adventure-boxTue, 02 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/massively-exclusive-new-code-electra-class-sizzles-in-elsword/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/massively-exclusive-new-code-electra-class-sizzles-in-elsword/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/massively-exclusive-new-code-electra-class-sizzles-in-elsword/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Massively Exclusive New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer
If you've wanted more sizzle in your Elsword gaming, you're in luck! Kill3rCombo has revealed Code Electra, the next class in its transformation series. Along with a whole new look, fans of Eve can revel in unleashing powerful electrical attacks and zapping enemies with devastating laser beams.

With the Code Electra class, the queen of a lost robotic race will unlock the El Spectrum ability, allowing her to alter her attacks by switching between multiple modes. Need to scatter the laser beam to hit more enemies? Can do. How about focus the beam for increased damage? Yup. This mode switching will affect all of the various skills available to Eve, offering players a multitude of strategic options.

Check out Eve's new look as Code Electra in the gallery below and watch her new abilities in action in the video after the break.

[Source: Kill3rCombo press release]

Gallery: Elsword Online

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: New Code Electra class sizzles in Elsword trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Elswordelsword-onlineEveexclusivef2pfree-to-playfreemiumgalleryKill3rCombomassively-exclusivemicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnew-classnewspremiumscreenshotstrailertransformation-classvideoTue, 02 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Your guide to Guild Wars 2's Super Adventure Box]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/your-guide-to-guild-wars-2s-super-adventure-box/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/your-guide-to-guild-wars-2s-super-adventure-box/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/your-guide-to-guild-wars-2s-super-adventure-box/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2's Super Adventure Box
April is almost upon us, which means that the first day of April is almost upon us, which means that April Fools' Day is almost upon us. In the past, the folks at ArenaNet have proven themselves fond of celebrating this occasion, which has given fans high hopes for continued trolling in the world of Guild Wars 2. Since March's patch, strange things have been appearing that all seem to hint at some sort of April Fools' joke: Super Adventure Box achievements on the hero panel, mysterious Continue Coins falling out of chests, and a new range of weapon skins added to the sPvP weapon pane.

Of course, it's been pointed out to me that perhaps the most delicious joke of all would be to put in all those clues and then have no actual prank. I can almost taste the rage of fans who had compulsively run characters through jumping puzzles for days in an attempt to stock up on Continue Coins that suddenly turned out to be worthless.

Fortunately (or not, depending on your sense of humor), that's not the case at all. The Super Adventure Box is real, and it's almost time for you to start playing it. Let's talk about it, shall we?

Continue reading Your guide to Guild Wars 2's Super Adventure Box

MassivelyYour guide to Guild Wars 2's Super Adventure Box originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetapril-foolsapril-fools-2013april-fools-dayarenanetbuy-to-playfantasyfeaturedgalleriesgalleryguild-wars-2gw2hands-onholo-solidhumorjokemotoncsoftpreviewpreviewssabscreenshotscreenshotssuper-adventure-boxtrailertrailersvideovideosSun, 31 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Winning is half the battle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/one-shots-winning-is-half-the-battle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/one-shots-winning-is-half-the-battle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/one-shots-winning-is-half-the-battle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Winning is half the battle
If knowledge is half the battle, what's the other half? Winning, duh. It's certainly not flaky pastries or erotic roleplaying. You got to win the game's face off, and when you're done, you should pose for a commemorative photo like Reader Ralph here:

"This shot was taken just minutes from the end," he wrote to us. "After several fierce battles, our team of AFS soldiers succeeded in taking over the last Bane encampment! The Earth was ours again! WE WON! And then our universe winked out of existence, and Tabula Rasa was no more."

You won and you lost? Ralph, you officially broke the universe with that. Read on for more exciting player screenshots in today's edition of One Shots.

Continue reading One Shots: Winning is half the battle

MassivelyOne Shots: Winning is half the battle originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbring-back-one-shotschampionschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryone-shotsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpics-or-it-didnt-happenpwereader-screenshotsreader-submissionssci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosuperherosuperheroestabula-rasauser-submissionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 31 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chinese browser MMO Yitien launches alpha on March 29th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/chinese-browser-mmo-yitien-launches-alpha-on-march-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/chinese-browser-mmo-yitien-launches-alpha-on-march-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/chinese-browser-mmo-yitien-launches-alpha-on-march-29th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Yitien alpha artwork
R2Games will be bringing Yitien, a Chinese-themed MMORPG, to browsers starting on March 29th. The developers promise a variety of play, from turn-based battles and multi-player arenas to PvP events and a version of the ever-familiar rock, paper, scissors. In one event, players can sign up at a certain time and enter a zone that transforms every player into a yeti. There will be no way to distinguish players from NPC yetis, but points and treasure are earned as NPCs are defeated and player attacks are successfully repelled. Attacking other players, however, will award you no points.

Players will also participate in a simple board game, rolling dice and moving a number of spaces. The first player to reach a certain location on the board wins the game. Players landing on the same square will battle, while players who run into mysterious warriors will have to fight using rock, paper, scissors for the chance to win lucrative trinkets.

Already available in China, Yitien has accrued 20 million total registered players with an average of 500,000 users logged on at one time. (How many bots are involved with those numbers, we'll never know.) You can sign up now on the official site.

[Source: R2Games press release]

Gallery: Yitien screenshots

MassivelyChinese browser MMO Yitien launches alpha on March 29th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testalpha-testingbetabeta-testbeta-testingboardgamesbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-mmochinachinese-mmof2pfree-to-playftpgalleriesgalleryisometricminigamesr2gamesscreenshotscreenshotstestingyitienThu, 28 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2013: Hands-on with Marvel Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-marvel-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-marvel-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/pax-east-2013-hands-on-with-marvel-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

PAX East 2013 Handson with Marvel Heroes
Gazillion Entertainment made a splash at PAX East, arriving with the big announcement that Marvel Heroes will be launching on June 4th. In addition, the team gave new details about endgame content, PvP, and special "ultimate powers" for each hero.

During the convention, Massively had a chance to sit down with VP of marketing Leo Olebe and CEO David Brevik to get a look at the state of the game, including some brand-new content that the devs have just added to Marvel Heroes. What did we see during our hands-on with the game? Let's just say that rampaging dinosaurs and "Hulk Smash" were but the tip of the iceberg.

Gallery: Marvel Heroes

Continue reading PAX East 2013: Hands-on with Marvel Heroes

MassivelyPAX East 2013: Hands-on with Marvel Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-mmoconconventiondave-brevikeventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfeaturedfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygazilliongazillion-entertainmenthands-oninterviewinterviewsleo-olebemarvelmarvel-heroesmarvel-universemarvel-universe-onlinemassively-event-coveragemuopaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsscreenshotscreenshotssecret-identitysuperherosuperheroesThu, 28 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2013: Dragon's Prophet demo and hands-on]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/gdc-2013-dragons-prophet-demo-and-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/gdc-2013-dragons-prophet-demo-and-hands-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/gdc-2013-dragons-prophet-demo-and-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

GDC 2013 Dragon's Prophet demo and handson dishes up details
Last fall, Runewaker and SOE announced Dragon's Prophet, a free-to-play fantasy game focused on -- you guessed it -- dragons. Since then, we've been treated to various videos detailing the classes, the starter zones, and other gameplay. Just last week the game entered closed beta in North America, allowing select folks the chance to get in and test out the current stage of the game.

This week, I joined those folks in-game during my hands-on and demo at this year's GDC. I was also able to talk with senior producer Todd Carson and associate producer Rod Haza as they demonstrated different aspects of the game at the convention. What delectable tidbits of information about classes, housing, and (of course) dragons did I uncover? The answer awaits after the break.

Gallery: Dragon's Prophet

Continue reading GDC 2013: Dragon's Prophet demo and hands-on

MassivelyGDC 2013: Dragon's Prophet demo and hands-on originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-customizationconconferenceconventiondragondragon-tamingdragonsdragons-propheteventevent-coverageeventsfeaturedgalleriesgallerygame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2013gdcgdc-2013hands-onhousinginfernuminfernum-productionsinterviewinterviewsmassively-event-coveragepreviewpreviewsPvPRAPTOR-COW-DRAGONSrod-hazarunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmenttodd-carsonThu, 28 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: ???]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/one-shots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/one-shots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/one-shots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

One Shots
There's a lot going on in our lead picture here. There are question marks, a fungus person, a pointedly staring frog, and enough colors to give Crayola a run for its money. But what is it about? What does it mean?

Reader Stacy helps clear things up: "That's mah frog. This was around April Fool's last year (those question marks are fireworks from that in-game event and are amazing in motion). This was my first house; I got it for free from the EverQuest in-game card game, so I did not have much decoration. I bought a bunch of pets from a man down the street and set them loose, then set off all my fireworks and partied the night away with frog and friends."

See, if we did most of these activities in real life, we'd be in jail. Aren't MMOs grand?

Continue reading One Shots: ???

MassivelyOne Shots: ??? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 24 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bring-back-one-shotsclassic-mmoeqeq1everquestf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalaxiesgalleriesgalleryneocronneocron-2one-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgouser-submissionsSun, 24 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2013: EVE Online Odyssey expansion announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-eve-online-odyssey-expansion-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-eve-online-odyssey-expansion-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-eve-online-odyssey-expansion-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

PAX East 2013 EVE Online Odyssey expansion announced
CCP Games has just announced at PAX East that EVE Online's next expansion will be called Odyssey and will hit the live servers this summer on June 4th. CCP told convention attendees that the focus of the expansion will be on exploration and shaking up the status quo of the classic space sandbox.

The studio has simultaneously unveiled an official website for the expansion; it promises, among other features, "a re-imagined scanning system, intuitive navigation and new exploration modules" that "will aid you as you search the heavens for your next conquest."

[This story is developing -- stay tuned as our PAX attendees post more info!]

Gallery: EVE Online PAX Prime 2013 Gallery

Continue reading PAX East 2013: EVE Online Odyssey expansion announced

MassivelyPAX East 2013: EVE Online Odyssey expansion announced originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingccpccp-gamesconconventioneveeve-onlineeventevent-coverageeventsexpansionexpogalleriesgalleryinternet-spaceshipsmassively-event-coverageodysseypaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-exposandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsspreadsheets-onlineSat, 23 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2013: Red 5 on Firefall's new gaming TV channel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-red-5-on-firefalls-new-gaming-tv-channel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-red-5-on-firefalls-new-gaming-tv-channel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-red-5-on-firefalls-new-gaming-tv-channel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

PAX East 2013 Red 5 talks Firefall, and reveals a new gaming TV channel
Red 5 Studios' MMOFPS Firefall is probably familiar to the Massively family, but it presentation Friday at PAX East was a chance to get a look behind the curtain at how far it's come and how far it has to go during testing.

CEO Mark Kern and Lead Game Designer Scott Youngblood presented a little history of the game's development so far, with a look to the future. But if that's not enough to get you to gear up and plant a Thumper, maybe their announcement about a brand-new video channel devoted to everything and anything involving gaming will catch your interest.

Gallery: PAX East Firefall

Continue reading PAX East 2013: Red 5 on Firefall's new gaming TV channel

MassivelyPAX East 2013: Red 5 on Firefall's new gaming TV channel originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Exactly what it says on the tin.
There's nothing quite like the experience of being on the show floor at PAX East. From fan gatherings to the booths to the general atmosphere throughout the show, it's a unique experience. It's also a unique experience you probably don't get to have if you're not in the northeastern part of the United States, since traveling to Boston is a dicey proposition at the best of times. And most people can't afford to give up rent for a month just to go to a game convention.

Obviously, the Massively away team is doing its best to give you a sense of the show floor through our articles about the big reveals, but what about the rest of the festivities? We've collected a gallery of our pictures taken on-site throughout the three-day exposition, and we'll be updating it through the remainder of the weekend. It's the next best thing to being in Boston and standing in line for an hour to see a panel about stuff you already knew!

Gallery: PAX East 2013 in pictures


Massively's on the ground in Boston during the weekend of March 22nd to 24th, bringing you all the best news from PAX East 2013. Whether you're dying to know more about WildStar, DUST 514, or any MMO in between, we aim to have it covered!

MassivelyPAX East 2013 in pictures originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Home, home on the orbital defense ring.
If you've been keeping up with activity here on Massively over the past couple of years, you know that I'm pretty excited about WildStar. So I was pretty happy to sit down and get a look at the game's high and low areas, not to mention the game's housing system. I was a bit less happy that said look didn't include a chance to play the whole thing myself, but if I had that opportunity I probably never would have let go of the demo station.

While the demo was hands-off, it did give plenty of opportunity to see a sample of the game's starting areas, what the high-level regions look like, and what players can expect when they sit down to start building their homes. So let's start out at a region that's both high in level and high above the rest of the game... because it's in high orbit. (And don't forget the housing video past the break!)

Gallery: WildStar PAX East 2013 Housing Gallery (and more!)

Continue reading PAX East 2013: A first look at WildStar's housing and new zones

MassivelyPAX East 2013: A first look at WildStar's housing and new zones originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots Views from a beta
It's hard not to turn into a total tourist when you're checking out a new beta. Out comes the fanny pack, the giddy delight of a new world, and most importantly, the camera.

Reader Michelle kicks off this week's One Shots column with a screenshot of the first Neverwinter beta weekend. It's a shot of her character Nora overlooking the edge of aptly named Neverdeath Graveyard. We're guessing that the caretaker down there has his hands full.

Would you go into such a place if you saw it in real life? I guess that's why we have our avatars to be bold where we would flee! Let's take a look at a few other places where angels fear to tread.

Continue reading One Shots: Views from a beta

MassivelyOne Shots: Views from a beta originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Massively Interview David Brevik talks Marvel Heroes
Marvel Heroes is an upcoming action RPG that allows players to sling web justice as Spider-Man or just throw a stress-relieving tantrum as the Hulk. Whatever your favorite alter-ego, the upcoming free-to-play game hopes to be a refreshing addition to the isometric genre.

At a recent press event in San Francisco, I sat down with David Brevik, President and CEO of Gazillion Entertainment, to scope out the influence of Diablo vs. the Marvel Universe and whether we'll see the PvP fans are hoping for.

Gallery: Marvel Heroes

Continue reading A door to the Marvel world: David Brevik talks Marvel Heroes

MassivelyA door to the Marvel world: David Brevik talks Marvel Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

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

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

Continue reading One Shots: Dancing with my homies

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

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EVE Evolved title image
EVE Online has the odd distinction of being one of the only MMOs in which the developers have almost no control over the active storyline. There have been plenty of fiction articles written about the game's backstory, and the NPC factions occasionally butt heads in short news pieces, but none of it feels very real. It's only when these events actually occur inside the game world that they become real, and when that happens, the outcome is at the mercy of players.

2010's spectacular Sansha abduction live event was the perfect example of this, with thousands of players becoming immersed in a very real emerging storyline. The story was fluid and evolved based on what players did, and so it made the NPC factions come alive in a way that fiction never could. While the scripted NPC portions of these storylines certainly constitute part of EVE's history, the most interesting tales follow the unexpected actions of players and alliances.

The fascinating thing is that the audience for these stories extends far beyond the playerbase itself, with news of high-profile events occasionally taking the global gaming media by storm. But for every 3,000-man battle and 200 billion ISK scam that's reported, there are hundreds of smaller events that would be just as interesting to read about or watch a video on. Most of these events have been lost to the mists of time, kept secret or talked about only among those directly involved ... until now.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at the types of NPC-based and player-run stories that happen regularly in EVE and speculate on CCP's upcoming plans to document and preserve that history.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Making EVE history

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Making EVE history originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots Back in the day
A few weeks ago I asked everyone to send me in screenshots of pre-2004 MMOs... and only Brad delivered. Seriously, people, you've been shown up by Brad. Brad gets the gold star. Brad gets the golden ticket and can come on a once-in-a-lifetime visit to see the fabled Massively word factory. Brad is my hero.

Brad (if you didn't catch his name) sent us in this shot of Ultima Online: "So much fun with vendors! This is a shot of Angelica's on the Chesapeake Server -- a popular shopping spot in Felucca to grab gear on the go. It was one of the few player-owned vendor spots in a protected zone near Lord British's Castle. This would have been taken around 2002. Notice the detail of the fish tank made from stacked cloth and the flowers made with an onion and two cooked eggs!"

Yes. Notice Brad's eggs, people. In them you can see the reflection of your failure. Aw, just kidding!

Continue reading One Shots: Back in the day...

MassivelyOne Shots: Back in the day... originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Firefall Copacabana
As any fan of my streams can tell you, I am not awesome at video games. So when Massively asked me to take a look at Firefall, a twitch-heavy, free-to-play shooter developed by Red 5 Studios, it was only with trepidation that I accepted. Could I really find happiness in a world that relied on reflexes and skill more than clever spell rotations? Or would my incompetence make the game so frustrating that I would end up smashing my keyboard with my face?

After procrastinating for days and hoping that the project would vanish into the night (beta goblins or something), I finally sat down to check the game out. What I discovered is that Firefall is much more than a shooter; it is a vibrant universe packed with fun things to do, intriguing content to explore, and enough character customization to please even the most ardent of tweakers.

Gallery: Firefall battleframe design

Continue reading Bugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE

MassivelyBugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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