Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are virtual worlds still important?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/the-daily-grind-are-virtual-worlds-still-important/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/the-daily-grind-are-virtual-worlds-still-important/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/the-daily-grind-are-virtual-worlds-still-important/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Sims Online
As part of the recent Massively Speaking bicentennial, we were reminiscing about the fact that Massively used to have a much heavier focus on virtual worlds. While we still touch on those from time to time, these types of "games" don't seem to be as hot as they once were. Or maybe they are and we're just not seeing it!

From Habitat to The Sims Online to Second Life, there have been many attempts at constructing vibrant, community-driven virtual worlds that would draw in players looking to create dual lives that were flashier and more fantastic than their real lives. These games once were heralded as the wave of the future, but it seems as if that wave has since moved on to bashing things with their +4 Clubs of Exquisite Suffering.

So what say you: Are virtual worlds still important? Are we trying to return to the concept by embracing sandbox principles? Are they best left to wither and die in the annals of history?

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 virtual worlds still important? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindhabitatopinionsandboxsecond-lifetdgthe-daily-grindthe-sims-onlinevirtual-worldsWed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of April 28th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-28th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-28th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-28th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Ah, another fine week of streaming videos! Who needs television when you have such killer content right at your fingertips, for free? Well, we need Game of Thrones, but other than that, we'll stick by Massively TV! Be sure to bookmark our livestream schedule page so that you won't miss any of the cool videos. Sign up, join in the chat room, and participate!

This week we had Mike back with his EVE Online and RIFT streams, followed by MJ with a ton of great stuff, including Aion, Lord of the Rings Online, TERA and City of Heroes! Woo! I finished up by showing viewers how to build clothing attachments in Second Life. So stop reading this and click past the cut. Check out the videos and let us know what you think in the comments section. Here, have some popcorn.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of April 28th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of April 28th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbeau-hindmaneve-onlineeverquest-iifeaturedlivestreaminglord-of-the-rings-onlinemassively-streamteammassively-tvmassivelytvmj-guthriemv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvriftround-uproundupsecond-lifestreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamteratwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideovideosSun, 06 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of April 14th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On logo
So you accidentally missed your favorite MassivelyTV livestream featuring your favorite Massively personality or writer? Don't worry; we'll forgive you as long as you promise to bookmark our MassivelyTV guide and check back on this weekly recap. That way you are sure not to miss another stream, and you wouldn't need to come back to us, begging for a link. You could also follow Massively on Twitter, one of the best ways to be alerted to new things.

This week we featured a Tboo Thursday, one of our most popular livestreams, which stars resident APB: Reloaded expert Taryn. We also had some more World of Warcraft Mists of Pandaria action from Richie, a bit of newbie content in EverQuest II with MJ at the helm, a quick introduction to skybox building in Second Life hosted by me, Mike's return to EVE Online in his shiny new Drake, and Adventure Mike's leap back into Final Fantasy XIV. Pretty exciting stuff if you're into giant rats, explosions, beautiful sunsets, and piles of bullets.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of April 14th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of April 14th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apb-reloadedbeau-hindmanBlizzardccpEQ2eve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playftpgamersfirstlinden-labLiveStreamLiveStreamingmassivelytvmists-of-pandariamj-guthriepreviously-on-mv-tvsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-EntertainmentSquare-Enixtwitchtwitch-tvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 22 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of April 7th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-7th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-7th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-7th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Oh hey, guys and gals, did you know that it was just Friday the 13th? Yes, it was. Don't worry; you'll have nothing but good luck on this week's recap of livestream goodness. If you missed a stream that you really wanted to see, or if you've never tuned in to check out what we do, head on over to our Twitch.tv page and keep an eye out. Be sure to bookmark the livestream guide as well so you can keep up with the current schedule. We have a lot of variety in our line-up, so it's always good to check back!

This week we had some great stuff! MJ has been streaming like her life depends on it lately, first jumping into EverQuest II, then spending some time in Vanguard: Saga of Heroes. She had to pay some attention Aion, of course, and there, she showed off some player housing and took a trip on an airlink. Mike was back in EVE Online avoiding death-rays and spacemen and later found himself dead in RIFT... again. The Mists of Pandaria have tempted Richie once again, and thankfully our cameras were there to capture it. Meanwhile, I spent some time boating in Second Life and gave a first look at Stronghold Kingdoms.

Just look at that lineup, will you? We're proud! Now click past the cut and get to viewing!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of April 7th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of April 7th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbeau-hindmanBlizzardccpeve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iifeaturedFirefly-Studioslinden-labLiveStreamlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmj-guthriemv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvriftround-uproundupsecond-lifeSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamstronghold-kingdomstelontriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvideovideosWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 15 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of March 31st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-31st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

MVTV banner
What a week, huh? We had all sorts of great livestreaming for you to enjoy. If you missed some of the cool things we put on live during the week, no worry! Just check back here every week and you'll be able to recap many of the best moments from our week of live video games. Each week is something new, and this week is no different. We've got quite the variety!

This week, we have Mike jamming on some EVE Online and then jumping into RIFT for horrible magical adventures. Richie ventured into the Mists of Pandaria beta for World of Warcraft to show off cute, cuddly, and furry butts while wielding a weapon of destruction! I had to check out some of the good and bad points about Second Life's Linden Homes, free structures that come with any premium account; I also jumped into Luvinia Online to participate in a huge PvP event, and let me just give you two words to entice you to watch: giant chickens. Blake took some time to shoot things in Global Agenda, and finally, we had MJ taking on some Bristlebane quests in EverQuest II, following it up by attacking stuff all over Aion! Check us out!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of March 31st

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of March 31st originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbeau-hindmaneq-iieq2eve-onlineeverquest-iifeaturedglobal-agendalinden-labLiveStreamlivestreamingluvinia-onlinemassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvriftsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-Entertainmentstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftwowSun, 08 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Life used to teach relaxation techniques]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/second-life-used-to-teach-relaxation-techniques/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/second-life-used-to-teach-relaxation-techniques/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/second-life-used-to-teach-relaxation-techniques/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Second Life - happy avatars
Who says Second Life's best days are behind it? Not Medical News Today, which reports that the long-running virtual world from Linden Lab has been successfully used to teach relaxation techniques. Massachusetts General Hospital researchers recently conducted a study that concluded that online worlds like Second Life can be useful in "teaching a mind/body approach that includes the relaxation response."

The study found that by doing away with the limitations of face-to-face meetings (and easing the minds of participants who are uncomfortable in real-world group settings), virtual worlds can foster more relaxing and healthy experiences. The study featured 24 individuals who were divided into three groups and subjected to eight weeks of online sessions in Second Life.

Researchers found that participants "showed reductions in depression- and anxiety-related symptoms," though it's also important to note that participants had prior experiences with virtual worlds.

MassivelySecond Life used to teach relaxation techniques originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2llindenlinden-labmassachusetts-general-hospitalmedical-news-todayreal-lifesandboxsecond-lifesecond-life-relaxation-researchsecond-life-researchsecond-life-studyslvirtual-worldvirtual-worldsWed, 04 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: I got the Second Life inventory management blues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/free-for-all-i-got-the-second-life-inventory-management-blues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/free-for-all-i-got-the-second-life-inventory-management-blues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/free-for-all-i-got-the-second-life-inventory-management-blues/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Second Life screenshot
Every year I attempt to go through my Second Life inventory in the hope that it actually works out for me. I really do want to get rid of the 7,000+ items I have after eight years in the game (my game-birthday is on May 26th!), but it's such a daunting task. Where do you start? Is organization really even needed? Well, yes it is, from what I have heard. Everyone is running in-world carrying endless pockets filled with everything possible, and that's going to cause some lag and effort on the server's part.

Also, I have an obsession with minimizing my life. I hate physical stuff. It takes up room, collects dust, and just sits there. Sure, I maintain all of my art if I can and some other important items like pictures and cute little knick-knacks, but otherwise, if I don't use it, it gets tossed, sold, or set on the curb for the junk-people to grab.

I feel the same way about Second Life. There's a mental burden that years of junk presses onto someone, digital representation or not. It's no wonder those people in that Hoarders show look so down; it's a hard life to lose the ability to throw anything away, ever.

I am making a stand, slowly. I am going to get this inventory under control by coming up with some ideas to help me along.

Continue reading Free for All: I got the Second Life inventory management blues

MassivelyFree for All: I got the Second Life inventory management blues originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpinventory-managementLindenlinden-labsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 04 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously On MVTV: The week of March 17th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-17th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-17th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-17th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Ah, livestreaming: the greatest thing we do here at Massively. Well, in my opinion at least. Playing video games live for others to watch is not just about virtual glory or showing off just how tough our rigs are (Jeremy wins, anyway), but they can act as instructional guides, introductions to new games, and special glimpses of content that has never before been seen. It's sort of a sad fact that some of these livestreams can do the work of entire columns. Pictures might be worth a thousand words, but animated pictures are worth much more.

This week we have a lot of variety as well as some old favorites for you. Be sure to check out and bookmark our MVTV Guide so that you know what is coming up and when to set your alarm clock. Once you're in the chat room, you can ask questions, point out errors (we love that), and jump into the game with the streamers!

In this week's roundup, Blake starts off with some Star Wars: The Old Republic, and Richie follows up with a bit of Guild Wars action. Next we have Mike returning to EVE Online and then popping into RIFT for some more exploration of the initial free 20 levels. I then take the time to add some animations to my otherwise-bland character in Second Life and then show off a bit of Parallel Kingdom, a browser-based MMO that is layered on top of the real-world map! Jeremy rounds things out with more Atlantica Online, showing off the Tactical Battle System that acts a lot like a boardgame within the game.

Continue reading Previously On MVTV: The week of March 17th

MassivelyPreviously On MVTV: The week of March 17th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarena-nearenanavatarbiowareccpeve-onfeaturedguild-warguild-wars-2lindenlinden-lablivelivestreamlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmv-tvmvtvparallel-kingdomperblueriftround-uproundupsecond-lifestar-warsstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamswtortriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideovideosSun, 25 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MVTV: The week of March 10th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-10th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-10th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-10th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
This week was another exciting week for livestreaming. If you missed it, don't worry! I'm here to show off some of the best moments from the previous week. Of course, you could always bookmark our Livestream guide so that you never miss a show again!

This week we have some EVE Online action with Mike, followed by his adventures in RIFT. Richie is back in Guild Wars for some adventures in Kryta. I took a tour of some amazing art spots in Second Life to show just how wonderful the world is for artists and other creative people, then I finally finished my One Piercing Note quest in RuneScape (with the help of the chat room, of course!). Are you curious about Lime Odyssey? I was allowed to be the very first person to stream it live during alpha. I have to say, it sure is a polished alpha. I thought I was playing a released title. Lastly, Psykopig checked out Age of Conan and made us all laugh... he's good at that!

Continue reading Previously on MVTV: The week of March 10th

MassivelyPreviously on MVTV: The week of March 10th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-age-of-conanallodsanetankamaarena-netarenanebeau-hindmanbiowarebrowserccpeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-plaftpfuncomgpotatoguild-warsguild-wars-2jagexlime-odysseylinden-lablivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvround-uprounduprunescapesecond-lifesqaure-enstar-wars-thestreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamswtortwitchtwitch-tvvideovideoswakfuSun, 18 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Linden Lab's Second Life 'extremely profitable,' company looking to expand]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/linden-labs-second-life-extremely-profitable-company-looking/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/linden-labs-second-life-extremely-profitable-company-looking/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/linden-labs-second-life-extremely-profitable-company-looking/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Second Life - hot air balloon at sunset
Second Life has dropped out of the limelight in recent years, but if a new piece at GamesIndustry.biz is on the mark, the long-running virtual world may be primed for something of a renaissance.

Former Linden Lab CEO Mark Kingdon vacated the throne in June 2010, and veteran developer Rod Humble took over at the beginning of 2011. Since then, the EverQuest and The Sims veteran has been working hard to bring a bit of structure to Second Life's virtual sprawl, and in the process, reinvigorate what was one of the first MMORPG media darlings.

"I was taken aback by just how big Second Life was," Humble says. "To be honest, it had fallen off my radar until I got the call offering me the position. And I looked at their numbers; this is a world that has got 1 million people logging in every month, generating well in excess of $75 million a year -- it's extremely profitable."

Humble spent much of 2011 refining the product, and everything from the sign-up process to the UI to world transportation received some attention. The result was a 40 percent uptick in new users, and now Humble is bent on expanding Linden Lab's offerings beyond Second Life. "Linden Lab has been very successful with one innovative product, but I want to stretch the company out again, to make it a really exciting place where people can't wait to find out about the next unusual title we're going to release," he said.

MassivelyLinden Lab's Second Life 'extremely profitable,' company looking to expand originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2llindenlinden-labreal-liferod-humblesandboxsecond-lifeslvirtual-worldvirtual-worldsThu, 15 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: February 13-19, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/mv-guide-february-13-19-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/mv-guide-february-13-19-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/mv-guide-february-13-19-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

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

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

Continue reading MV Guide: February 13-19, 2012

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanall-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedFiestaglitchguild-warsheroes-of-newerthlivestreamlivestreamingmv-guideNexus: The Kingdom of the Windsrunes-of-magicrunescaperyzomsecond-lifestar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorMon, 13 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: Week of February 6th, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-february-6th-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-february-6th-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-february-6th-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MVTV logo
Welcome back to Previously on MV TV, your source for highlights from last week's Twitch.tv streams! If you happen to miss one or want to check out some of our shows for the first time, then this is a great place to start.

This week we have some Guild Wars developer fun with Richie and then again with Adventure Mike, a bit of Wurm Online exploration and construction with Jeremy and the creator of the game, the first stages of owning land and building a house in Second Life with yours truly, some MOBA action in Heroes of Newerth with Dylan, and the usual Star Wars: The Old Republic goodness with Larry.

So what are you waiting for? Click past the cut to catch up on the streams you might have missed. While you're at it, bookmark our Massively TV guide so you won't miss any more!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: Week of February 6th, 2012

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: Week of February 6th, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-patrickanetArena-Netarenanetbeau-hindmanBioWarefeaturedguild-warsheroes-of-newerthjeremy-strattonlinden-labLiveStreamMOBAnot-so-massivelypvprolf-janssonSandboxsecond-lifestar-wars-the-old-republicswtortwitchtwitch-tvvideowinds-of-changewurm-onlineSun, 12 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: February 6-12, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/mv-guide-february-6-12-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/mv-guide-february-6-12-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/mv-guide-february-6-12-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

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

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

Continue reading MV Guide: February 6-12, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: February 6-12, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetarenanet-guild-warsbiowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtorccpccp-eveccp-gamescloud-ninecode-clubeaelectronic-artseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineglitchglobal-agendaglobal-agenda-hi-rezguild-warsguildwarsgwhi-rezhi-rez-global-agendahi-rez-stdioes-global-agendahi-rez-studiosliden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslivestreamlivestreaminglucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgmv-guidemv-tvncsoftnetgamenexusnexus-the-kingdom-of-the-windsrolf-jannsonryzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labsstar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-old-republictiny-specktwitch-tvvirtual-worldwurmwurm-onlineMon, 06 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: Week of January 30, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-january-30-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-january-30-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/05/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-january-30-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars
Welcome to Previously on MV TV! Our livestreaming schedule has picked up a lot over the past few weeks, and our readers have busy lives, so we know it's impossible to watch every single streaming event live. Fortunately for you, we save all of our streams all for posterity on Massively's Twitch TV channel, so you can view them at your leisure. Even better, we've got a roundup of a few of last week's MV TV highlights from the livestream team. Follow along after the jump for the best of the best!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: Week of January 30, 2012

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: Week of January 30, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetarenanet-guild-warsblizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentccpccp-gamesd3diablo-3diablo-iiidiiieveeve-onlineguild-warsguildwarsgwlinden-labsecond-lifeslsoesony-online-entertainmentvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldSun, 05 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Second Life documentary screenshot
So I was working on this week's Free for All last night when a buddy of mine asked me if I had seen a certain older Second Life documentary. I didn't think I had before, but it turns out that my usual record of consuming everything MMO still stands, and it was fun to re-watch the older documentary again for several reasons.

One of the most important things I noticed about the film was just how universal to MMO gaming the documentary was. The issues it brought up are still issues, the problems with virtual worlds are still problems, and the fact that any technology older than six months looks laughable on film is still true. It was also encouraging to see how well Second Life has aged since 2007, but it's slightly depressing to see just how horrible MMO documentaries can be at showing the entire picture.

Continue reading Free for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths

MassivelyFree for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2Lbeau-hindmanBlizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentdocumentariesdocumentaryf2pfeaturedfour-cornersfree-for-allfree-to-playftplinden-labphilip-rosedalesandboxsecond-lifeSLvideovideosvirtual-sexvirtual-worldsWorld-of-Warcraftwowyou-only-live-twiceWed, 01 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: January 30-February 5, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/mv-guide-january-30-february-5-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/mv-guide-january-30-february-5-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/mv-guide-january-30-february-5-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardall-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameall-points-bulletin-reloadedanetapbapb-eaapb-gameapb-reloadedarenanetarenanet-guild-warsatomic-bluebiowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtorblizzardccpccp-eveccp-gamesd3dc-universe-onlinedcuodiablo-3diablo-iiidiiieaelectronic-artseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefrogsterfrogster-runes-of-magicglitchglobal-agendaglobal-agenda-hi-rezguild-warsguildwarsgwhi-rezhi-rez-global-agendahi-rez-stdioes-global-agendahi-rez-studiosjagexliden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslivestreamlivestreaminglucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgmv-guidemv-tvncsoftplaneshiftromrunes-of-magicrunescaperyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-old-republictiny-specktiny-speck-glitchvirtual-worldMon, 30 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: Week of January 23rd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/29/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-january-23rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/29/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-january-23rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/29/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-january-23rd/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Vekk
Welcome to Previously on MV TV! Our livestreaming schedule has picked up a lot over the past few weeks, and our readers have busy lives, so we know it's impossible to watch every single streaming event live. Fortunately for you, we save all of our streams all for posterity on Massively's Twitch TV channel, so you can view them at your leisure. Even better, we've got a roundup of a few of last week's MV TV highlights from the livestream team. Follow along after the jump for the best of the best, and check out our full library of videos for the other games we've streamed last week as we begin to ramp up our streaming even more in February!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: Week of January 23rd

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: Week of January 23rd originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameanetapb-gameapb-reloadedarenanetarenanet-guild-warsdarek-connoleea-apbf2pfree-to-playg1gamersfirstgm-mokobonbongm-refreshguild-warsguildwarsgwliden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslivestreamlivestreamingluvinialuvinia-onlinemv-tvncsoftoutsparkpreviously-on-mv-tvsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labsvirtual-worldSun, 29 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: January 23-29, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/mv-guide-january-23-29-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/mv-guide-january-23-29-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/mv-guide-january-23-29-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

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

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

Continue reading MV Guide: January 23-29, 2012

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetarenanet-guild-warsbiowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtorbrowser-basedccpccp-eveccp-gamesdisneydisneys-toontowneaelectronic-artseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-romglitchglobal-agendaglobal-agenda-hi-rezguild-warsguildwarsgwhi-rezhi-rez-global-agendahi-rez-stdioes-global-agendahi-rez-studiosjagexjagex-game-studiosjagex-runescapeliden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslivestreamlivestreaminglucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgluvinia-onlinemassively-livestreammassively-tvmv-guidemv-tvoutsparkromrunes-of-magicrunescaperyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoesonySony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-old-republictiny-specktoontownurban-rivalsvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldMon, 23 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: January 16-22, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/mv-guide-january-16-22-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/mv-guide-january-16-22-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/mv-guide-january-16-22-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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

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

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

Continue reading MV Guide: January 16-22, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: January 16-22, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameapb-gamebiowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtorccpccp-eveccp-gameschampions-onlinecodc-universe-onlinedcuoeaelectronic-artsEVEeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-interactiveg1gamersfirstglobal-agendaglobal-agenda-hi-rezhi-rezhi-rez-global-agendahi-rez-stdioes-global-agendahi-rez-studiosjagexkabamliden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgmilmommortsmv-guideperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweromrunes-of-magicrunescaperusty-heartssecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoesony-online-entertainmentst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicstosw-torswtorthe-old-republicthirst-of-nighttrek-onlinevirtual-worldMon, 16 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: Week of January 9th, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-january-9th-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-january-9th-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/previously-on-mv-tv-week-of-january-9th-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fallen Earth, aka Good God in Heaven, shoot it!
Welcome to the brand-new Previously on MV TV! Our livestreaming schedule has picked up a lot over the past few weeks, and our readers have busy lives, so we know it's impossible to watch every single streaming event live. Fortunately for you, we save all of our streams all for posterity on Massively's Twitch TV channel, so you can view them at your leisure. Even better, we've got a roundup of a few of last week's MV TV highlights from the livestream team. Follow along after the jump for the best of the best!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: Week of January 9th, 2012

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: Week of January 9th, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtoreaelectronic-artsf2pfallen-earthfeaturedfree-to-playg1gamersfirstleague-of-legendsliden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslivestreamlivestreaminglollucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgmassively-tvmv-tvpreviously-on-mv-tvriotriot-gamessecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-old-republicvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldSun, 15 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: January 9-15, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/mv-guide-january-9-15-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/mv-guide-january-9-15-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/mv-guide-january-9-15-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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

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

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

Continue reading MV Guide: January 9-15, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: January 9-15, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedankamaapbapb-reloadedbiowareccpchampions-onlinedc-universe-onlinedcuodie2niteea-biowareeve-onlinefallen-earthfeaturedg1gamersfirstglitchglobal-agendahi-rez-studiosjagexleague-of-legendslindenlablivestreamlivestreamingmv-guidemv-tvneed-for-speed-worldnfswperfect-world-entertainmentpweriotriot-gamesrunescapesecond-lifesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsquare-enixstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortiny-specktorvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroeswakfuMon, 09 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
If you are perusing this column, chances are you are a fan of virtual worlds and the sandbox genre. Join the club! (Dues will be due on the third Tuesday.) The aspect that compels many aficionados to delve into a game is the ability to make an impact on the world in some small respect instead of making them into Hive Member 1593072 running a static, predetermined gauntlet. How that impact is accomplished, however, varies; there are multiple features that can facilitate it, and which ones are considered most important depends on the player.

With the loss of one of the best sandbox games just last month, some players may be feeling a void. Others still are looking/hoping for the "ultimate" sandbox that contains nearly every virtual world feature. Certainly, there are some upcoming games that make some drool-worthy promises, but what about playing something now? There are actually games out on the market that have at least one aspect of the genre, if not more.

To start off the new year, Some Assembly Required looks at some of the top features of virtual worlds and lists games that incorporate these features. While this list isn't exhaustive (considering the sheer number of games when you include all of the smaller free-to-play titles, I'd run out of column space!), it is a comprehensive enough overview to point you toward some games worth playing that perhaps you hadn't considered before.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup

MassivelySome Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaionaion-gameAnarchy-Onlineaocccpccp-eveccp-gameschampions-onlinecharacter-creationcharacter-customizationcity-of-heroescocohcraft-of-godscraft-of-the-godscraftingcrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalleden-eternaleq-1eq-2eq-ieq-iieveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineever-quest-1ever-quest-2ever-quest-iever-quest-iieverquest-1everquest-2everquest-ieverquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiflyffFuncomglitchguild-housinghousingking-of-kings-3liden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroluna-onlinemabinogimission-architectnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-cohparagon-studioesplanetsideplayer-generated-contentplayer-generated-missionsplayer-housingplayer-run-economyrunescapeRyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoe-eq-1soe-eq-2soe-eq-isoe-eq-iisome-assembly-requiredsony-eq-1sony-eq-2sony-eq-isony-eq-iisquare-enixst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineturbineTurbine-EntertainmentUltima-OnlineUOvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldwar-of-the-immortalswizard-101xbox-360XsyonFri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: January 2-8, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/mv-guide-january-2-8-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/mv-guide-january-2-8-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/mv-guide-january-2-8-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

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

Follow along after the jump for the latest edition of MV Guide!

Continue reading MV Guide: January 2-8, 2012

MassivelyMV Guide: January 2-8, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapb-reloadedbiowareccpeqiieve-onlineeverquest-iigamersfirstglitchglobal-agendahi-rezjagexkingdom-of-loatinglinden-lablivestreammilmomv-guidemv-tvrunescapesecond-lifesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortiny-speckvanguarVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesMon, 02 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Life rolls out Linden Realms publicly on December 1st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/second-life-rolling-out-linden-realms-publicly-on-december-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/second-life-rolling-out-linden-realms-publicly-on-december-1st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/second-life-rolling-out-linden-realms-publicly-on-december-1st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Next month, raid content.
Something very unusual is coming to Second Life on December 1st: a game. All right, that in and of itself isn't all that unusual, since the virtual world has long empowered users to create their own systems and their own games. But this is still something different because it's not a user-created game. Linden Realms has been developed specifically by Linden Lab, and as of December 1st all users will be able to experience what a first-party game for the virtual environment feels like.

Second Life content creators will, rather unfortunately, be facing off against an in-house project. Luckily, the tools used in the development of Linden Realms will also be made available to the community, giving everyone a chance to play with the new tools and improve upon gameplay experiences. Whether or not this is a good thing or not for the game's overall health remains to be seen, but it may well provide an interesting boost to the community's user-created content.

MassivelySecond Life rolls out Linden Realms publicly on December 1st originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>community-contentdevelopmentgameplaygameslinden-lablinden-labslinden-realmssandboxessecond-lifesluser-created-contentvirtual-worldsWed, 30 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Giving it away for free edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/the-mmo-report-giving-it-away-for-free-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/the-mmo-report-giving-it-away-for-free-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/the-mmo-report-giving-it-away-for-free-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The MMO Report
Today on The MMO Report, Casey chronicles DC Universe Online's F2P growing pains ("It's almost like they're giving it away for free," he says cheekily) before moving on to the Total Recall MMO, Star Wars: The Old Republic's server types, Guild Wars 2's pet system, and the bizarre addition of Second Life to the FBI's watch list for criminal gangs and drug traffickers. "Way to give criminal organizations a wonderful idea, FBI," jokes The Beard.

This episode also sees the return of Uncle Casey's mailbag and a new contest to devise an MMO Report-themed drinking game. Winners will receive (what else?) World of Warcraft-themed MEGA Bloks.

Casey ends the show on a Skyrim note: "For some reason, I am always drawn to the most useless skills and end up creating a character that's only good at talking to people and getting lower prices on things but not so great at killing things." Sounds like some of my toons!

Hit the break for the full episode!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Giving it away for free edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Giving it away for free edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2Lanetarenanetbiowarecasey-schreinerdc-universe-onlinedcuodrinking-gameeaElectronic-Artsfbiguild-wars-2gw2linden-labmega-bloksmmo-reportncsoftnewssecond-lifesee-virtual-worldsskyrimSLsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-mmo-reporttotal-recalltotal-recall-mmototal-recall-remakeuncle-caseys-mailbagvideovideosWorld-of-WarcraftThu, 10 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rod Humble details experimentation and innovation at Linden Lab]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/rob-humble-details-experimentation-and-innovation-at-linden-lab/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/rob-humble-details-experimentation-and-innovation-at-linden-lab/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/08/rob-humble-details-experimentation-and-innovation-at-linden-lab/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Linden Lab logo
Linden Lab's popular Second Life is known for being one of the more creative, outside-the-box titles available on the market. That tradition carries over into Linden Lab CEO Rod Humble's newest initiative, which he says "puts the 'lab' in Linden Lab." Rather than having his developers spend all their time between projects working on bug-fixes, Humble has begun a rapid-prototyping R&D initiative. For all the information on this new project, head on over to Gamasutra and check out the full feature.

MassivelyRod Humble details experimentation and innovation at Linden Lab originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>experimentationinnovationlinden-lablinden-labsrod-humblesecond-lifeslTue, 08 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: MMOs in movies and television]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/the-perfect-ten-mmos-in-movies-and-television/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/the-perfect-ten-mmos-in-movies-and-television/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/the-perfect-ten-mmos-in-movies-and-television/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten
While 1982's Tron explored what virtual life might be like inside a massive video game, it wasn't until fairly recently that real MMOs have crossed the divide between niche and mainstream to be referenced in television and films. Depending on how you see it, this mainstream acceptance of geek culture can be a thing to be either celebrated or shunned. What's for certain, however, is that we've only started to see the beginning of such mentions.

In today's Perfect Ten, I cobbled together a list of the first 10 MMO references that I know of from movies and TV shows. Some might be nothing more than a background detail or a throwaway line, while others are completely centered around the advertisement, er, massively multiplayer online roleplaying game. I tried hard not to use "cheats" such as fake MMOs featured in shows like The Guild, so this list is all about real-world titles with no sugar substitutes.

Ready? Insert quarter and hit player one!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: MMOs in movies and television

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: MMOs in movies and television originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaoccity-of-heroescohcsicsi-nyeqeverquestfeaturedgary-sinesegrandmas-boyhow-i-met-your-motherlistlistslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroncisopinionperfect-10perfect-tenphilly-jimriftsecond-lifesgwsouth-parkstargate-universestargate-worldsthe-big-bang-theorythe-fellows-hipthe-new-guythe-officethe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentronturbineworld-of-warcraftwowzombielandThu, 03 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Electrobit City]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/one-shots-electrobit-city/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/one-shots-electrobit-city/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/21/one-shots-electrobit-city/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Second Life screenshot
Today's screenshot features a name we don't often see in One Shots: Second Life. Massively reader and SL fan Kaozz sent us this unusual view from on high:
This is not something you see every day, kind of like a tribute within a game. I thought I'd submit this very cool picture from Second Life. It is an aerial view of a player-created sim called Electrobit City. I thought it was just awesome.
We're all about looking up this week on One Shots! Show us your favorite aerial image -- whether it be taken from the ground looking up or from atop a high-flying mount or tall perch, we want to see! Add your name and a little bit about the image, send it in to oneshots@massively.com, and we'll feature it in this week's One Shots!

Next week we're throwing the ball back to you. There's no theme and no requirement; just send us your favorite screenshots and tell us why you love them. Ready, set, go!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Electrobit City originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>galleriesgallerylinden-labone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssecond-lifeWed, 21 Sep 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The dangers and allure of real money trading in MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/the-dangers-and-allure-of-real-money-trading-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/the-dangers-and-allure-of-real-money-trading-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/03/the-dangers-and-allure-of-real-money-trading-in-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EverQuest
It's been one of the longest-running debates in the MMO industry: whether or not real money trading (RMT) helps or hurts players and the game worlds they inhabit. The Ottawa Citizen shed some light on the subject by showing how the games industry at large has dealt with the subject, from players dealing in grey market trades to studios overseeing RMT in the hopes of keeping players' bank accounts safe while lining the studios' pockets with additional income.

Two examples were given of players engaging in illicit -- and ill-advised (Massively disclaimer) -- RMT activities. One player said that he made $7,000 in 2001 by purchasing EverQuest characters from bored players and reselling them to others, even though this was against the game's EULA. He likened it to real-world corporate practices: "It was kind of like buying a company and breaking (it) down and selling off all its assets, and flipping it for more cash."

Another player admitted to spending $50 in hopes of gaining 2,000 gold in World of Warcraft, but the third-party company simply took his cash and never delivered the gold.

The article notes how games like Second Life and companies like Sony and Microsoft are embracing RMT even as the issue remains taboo in many MMOs.

MassivelyThe dangers and allure of real money trading in MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeulaeverquestgrey-marketmicrosoftottawa-citizenplaystation-3real-money-tradingrmtsecond-lifesoesonySony-Online-Entertainmenttabooworld-of-warcraftwowXbox-360Sat, 03 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Which MMO has the hardest learning curve?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/the-daily-grind-which-mmo-has-the-hardest-learning-curve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/the-daily-grind-which-mmo-has-the-hardest-learning-curve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/09/the-daily-grind-which-mmo-has-the-hardest-learning-curve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Chalkboard demonstrating mathematical complexity
MMOs come in all shapes and sizes, and with new titles launching every other day, there's bound to be one out there that caters to just about every skill level imaginable. While many of these games boast similar mechanics, occasionally a dev team will stray from the norm and create a head-scratchingly complex title (or in some cases, a title that is deliberately user-unfriendly).

Games like EVE Online and Second Life are renowned for their learning curve and the amount of research necessary to play at a high level, and we're curious to hear about others you may have experienced.

For this edition of The Daily Grind, share your thoughts on MMO complexity, and whether the term entails mechanics, the UI, gameplay options, or some combination of all three. While you've got your thinking cap on, which MMO has the hardest learning curve?

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: Which MMO has the hardest learning curve? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>complexitydifficultyeveeve-onlinegame-discussiongame-mechanicsgamer-discussionmechanicsmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicssandboxsecond-lifespreadsheets-in-spacetdgthe-daily-grinduiuser-interfaceTue, 09 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storybricks: Opening the Pandora's box of MMO design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/storybricks-opening-the-pandoras-box-of-mmo-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/storybricks-opening-the-pandoras-box-of-mmo-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/08/storybricks-opening-the-pandoras-box-of-mmo-design/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Storybricks pre-alpha
"I could make a better game than this!"

At one point or another, we've all said this, usually in disgust after we've become fed up with another tired MMO trope or lazy quest design. Unfortunately, most of us don't have the good fortune to work for a major game studio and thus will never see our brilliant ideas come to fruition.

Except that this may no longer be true. Enter Namaste Entertainment's Storybricks, a bold and intriguing concept aimed at putting game design in the hands of Joe and Jane Gamer. Namaste is a small startup that began in 2010 when its team members got tired of derivative titles and mechanics in the industry. Storybricks is the team's first project, and while it's still in its infancy, it's already started to capture the imaginations -- and excitement -- of gamers everywhere.

At this past week's GenCon, I caught up with Brian "Psychochild" Green and the rest of the Namaste crew as they publicly demoed Storybricks to the gaming crowd. Hit the jump as we look at why this program may just be the answer to a question you've never fully asked.

Continue reading Storybricks: Opening the Pandora's box of MMO design

MassivelyStorybricks: Opening the Pandora's box of MMO design originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aibrian-greencity-of-heroescohfeaturedgencongencon-2011gencon-indyinterviewinterviewskelly-heckmanlegoliz-danforthnamastenamaste-entertainmentneverwinter-nightsnpcnwnpgcplayer-created-contentplayer-generated-contentpsychochildsecond-lifestar-trek-25th-anniversarystar-trek-onlinestostorybrickswastelandMon, 08 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Second Life's CEO Rod Humble talks anniversaries]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/second-lifes-ceo-rod-humble-talks-anniversaries/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/second-lifes-ceo-rod-humble-talks-anniversaries/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/second-lifes-ceo-rod-humble-talks-anniversaries/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Second Life recently hit a milestone in the MMORPG industry: eight years in service. This is ancient in MMO terms, and yet the game has shown continued growth. How would you explain such success, especially when the game... er, world... is such an enigma? Even the players are not sure how to describe it.

Well, we called out the big guns and sat down with Rod Humble, CEO of Linden Lab, the maker of Second Life. He was kind enough to not only do the interview but allow us to embed the audio in the article for you to hear! Don't worry; we've also written up much of what was said, so you can choose to listen, read, or both!

Click past the cut and let's get right to the interview with Rod as he talks about success, explaining Second Life and some of the surprises he's met with along the way.

Continue reading Second Life's CEO Rod Humble talks anniversaries

MassivelySecond Life's CEO Rod Humble talks anniversaries originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybeau-hindmanbirthdayeighth-anniversaryfeaturedinterviewinterviewslinden-labrod-humblesecond-lifeSLvideovideosThu, 23 Jun 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Duran Duran and Second Life, isn't that bizarre?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/duran-duran-and-second-life-isnt-that-bizarre/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/duran-duran-and-second-life-isnt-that-bizarre/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/duran-duran-and-second-life-isnt-that-bizarre/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

According to Tateru Nino at Dwell On It, Duran Duran had promised its presence in the world of Second Life back in 2006. Second Life residents were hungry like a wolf for more information, but the band was lost in a crowd. At long last, the band announced yesterday the launch of Duran Duran Universe, a new zone in Linden Lab's virtual world. Although there may be no dancing on the sand, community manager Crissy Welinder posted the official announcement to the Duran Duran website: "Duran Duran Universe is packed full of wonderful artistic treasures, interactive features, innovative multimedia and exciting events and games." Every part of the Second Life zone has been carefully selected by members of the band, and they hope it is one continuous party.

For more information about Duran Duran Universe, don't twist through a dusty land, just visit the band's official website.

MassivelyDuran Duran and Second Life, isn't that bizarre? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Welcome to this week's Global Chat! We love hearing what you have to say at Massively, and we love it even more when we can share the best comments with all of our readers. Massively staffers will be contributing some of their favorite comments every week, so keep an eye out every Sunday for more Global Chat!

We love our MMOs here at Massively, but we'll be the first to tell you that nothing's perfect. There's always room for improvement, but sometimes things just are what they are and you find a way to work with the situation and enjoy yourself anyway.

Today's Global Chat is all about acknowledging those limitations and less-than-fun aspects of gaming and what you can do in spite of those potential roadblocks. Follow along after the jump to see what the Massively community had to say this week!

Continue reading Global Chat: Room for improvement edition

MassivelyGlobal Chat: Room for improvement edition originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 May 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adult-contentask-massivelybiowarecaliburn-susantoclassescommenterscommunitycommunity-chatfeaturedfree-for-allglobal-chathyperspace-beaconintegrated-voice-chatkasapinalinden-labloreopinionracesresurgesecond-lifesecond-life-is-not-all-about-teh-sexorzslstar-wars-the-old-republicstoryswtortorvoice-chatvoipSun, 29 May 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: The throne of agony edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/the-mmo-report-the-throne-of-agony-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/the-mmo-report-the-throne-of-agony-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/the-mmo-report-the-throne-of-agony-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

This week on the MMO Report, our very own mountain man, Casey Schreiner, decided to grace us with his presence after taking off a week for his birthday. I mean, really... where is his loyalty? Thank goodness he returned because the internet would have exploded if we had to see another flawless MMO Report from Morgan Webb. The internet can't take that level of perfection.

At any rate, this week we discover just how awesome Massively is as Schreiner reports on our report of the Bungie MMO rumors; then we find out that Second Life may be just as weird as we thought it was; next, the power of the Guild Wars 2 Engineer has inspired Casey to tackle the next level of greatness; and lastly, we find out what can no longer be contained in Casey's Mail Bag.

Life is too short for you to miss a single episode of the MMO Report, so catch it after the break!

Continue reading The MMO Report: The throne of agony edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: The throne of agony edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 May 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetBungiecasey-schreinerg4G4TVGuild-Wars-2gw2humorlinden-labmmo-reportmorgan-webbncsoftsecond-lifethe-mmo-reportthrone-of-agonyThu, 26 May 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Why you shouldn't be worried while playing Second Life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/free-for-all-why-you-shouldnt-be-worried-while-playing-second/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/free-for-all-why-you-shouldnt-be-worried-while-playing-second/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/free-for-all-why-you-shouldnt-be-worried-while-playing-second/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Recently I've taken a great interest in Second Life. For the record, I've been interested in the game -- er, world -- for the past seven years. More specifically, my seventh "birthday" is coming up on May 26th, 2011, meaning that I have been exploring, building, discussing and watching Second Life for a long, long time. I truly enjoy wandering into groups of other players who seem to think that my fairly basic avatar means that I am either new or ignorant about the game. I love telling them that I have been playing a long time, probably longer than they have. I'm actually proud of it.

Still, in spite of my history with the game, I do miss major developments. I am not consumed with the politics and goings on at Linden Lab (maker of Second Life). So when I heard about the changes that were being made concerning adult content, I sort of tuned it out and continued to play off and on. I typically disliked -- no, hated is a better word -- the adult content I came across in Second Life, so I simply avoided it.

If there is one thing I am asked about Second Life, it's "aren't there orgies going on all the time?" Seriously. I get asked about orgies more than anything. I wanted to go over the official rules to reassure those curious and wary potential players that they will not be shot in the face with a sex toy -- unless they want to be.

Click past the cut and let's discuss.

Continue reading Free for All: Why you shouldn't be worried while playing Second Life

MassivelyFree for All: Why you shouldn't be worried while playing Second Life originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2ladultadult-contentadult-migrationadult-mmobeau-hindmancybercyber-sexf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftplinden-labLLmaturesecond-lifezindraWed, 25 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Second Life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/15/rise-and-shiny-recap-second-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/15/rise-and-shiny-recap-second-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/15/rise-and-shiny-recap-second-life/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

I thought writing about Second Life would be easy. I figured that my seven-year experience with the game -- er, world -- would make writing this that much easier. I was wrong about that. I could list many of the technical specifications, telling you how to build something or how to script a basic weapon. I could also tell you how to host an event or how to form a group. In fact, I could make this recap a list brimming with specific details about the most sandbox of sandbox games in existence.

Instead I decided to let you watch the embedded video for building details while I write up how I felt during this week long revisit. Technically I have never left the world of Second Life, but over the last week I crammed in more hours building, buying and exploring than I have in a long time. I found many new ways of doing things and many wonderful places. Second Life is not, and never was, about one specific thing, so let me just tell you what I found over the last week.

Click past the cut to read it, and be sure to leave any questions or experiences in the comments section!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Second Life

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Second Life originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanfeaturedhome-and-gardenlinden-labLiveStreamrise-and-shinysecond-lifeslvideovirtual-worldSun, 15 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV guide: May 9 - 15, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/mv-guide-may-9-15-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/mv-guide-may-9-15-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/09/mv-guide-may-9-15-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively's Livestream channel.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of games to take a look at. During Livestream events, you can participate in the live chat to learn about the game, ask questions, and spend some time with Massively staff and readers.

Follow along after the jump to see what's scheduled for this week!

Continue reading MV guide: May 9 - 15, 2011

MassivelyMV guide: May 9 - 15, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landguild-warsillyriadlivestreamlivestreaminglord-of-the-rings-onlinemv-guidemv-tvmyst-onlinerunes-of-magicsecond-lifeMon, 09 May 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Allods Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/rise-and-shiny-recap-allods-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/rise-and-shiny-recap-allods-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/rise-and-shiny-recap-allods-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Oh, Allods Online. You poor, misunderstood beast. Those who love you speak very little, while those who once loved you and were burned for whatever reason... well, they speak the most. I tried to keep this in mind when I took an "official" look at (or re-visit in) the game. Allods has been called many, many things since first rearing its beautiful head, but no one seems to talk about how fun, or not fun, it is. Generally all you hear about are cash-shop woes.

I already have a character that I never leveled past 11, so I logged him in and got right to it. Despite all the patches, fixes, tweaks and cash-shop rearranges that went on since I last actively played, the game seemed pretty much the same. It was still beautiful, ran well, and sounded nice. So what was I looking for? What would I notice that I had not noticed before?

Click past the cut and I'll tell you all about it.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Allods Online

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Allods Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlinebeau-hindmancash-shopf2pfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xifree-to-playftpgpotatolinden-labLiveStreamngesecond-lifestar-wars-galaxiesWorld-of-WarcraftzentiaSun, 08 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: May 2 - 8, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/mv-guide-may-2-8-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/mv-guide-may-2-8-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/mv-guide-may-2-8-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively's Livestream channel.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of games to take a look at. During Livestream events, you can participate in the live chat to learn about the game, ask questions, and spend some time with Massively staff and readers.

Continue reading MV Guide: May 2 - 8, 2011

MassivelyMV Guide: May 2 - 8, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aerrevanallodsallods-onlinefeaturedlivestreamlivestreamsmv-guideriftromrunes-of-magicryzomsecond-lifeMon, 02 May 2011 09:00:00 EST