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[Explore Vinland and Rome with Uncharted Waters Online's latest update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/explore-vinland-and-rome-with-uncharted-waters-onlines-latest-u/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/explore-vinland-and-rome-with-uncharted-waters-onlines-latest-u/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/explore-vinland-and-rome-with-uncharted-waters-onlines-latest-u/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Uncharted Waters Online
Ahoy there, sailors. It's time once again to raise your sails, man your oars, and prepare for further adventures on the seven seas with Uncharted Waters Online. A new update to the game brings players a treasure trove of new content to explore, such as the new area of Vinland, which is inhabited by fierce vikings, and the grand city of Rome, where players can test out the freshly revamped ground combat system in new PvE challenges at the historical Coliseum.

On top of that, the update is also introducing a brand-new banking system that will allow players to keep their loot safe from plundering (for a minor fee, of course). And finally, players will be granted access to three new vessels in which to make the journey to Vinland. The first is the Immigrant Bark, which is modeled after the historical Mayflower that carried some of the first English settlers to North America. The other two ships are the six-sailed long schooner and commercial long schooner. So choose your vessel, get all hands on deck, and set your course for Vinland by heading over to the game's official site.

[Source: Netmarble press release]

MassivelyExplore Vinland and Rome with Uncharted Waters Online's latest update originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cj-em-gamescoliseumcolosseumf2pfree-to-playground-battle-systemground-combat-systemimmigrant-barknetmarbleromeshipshipstecmo-koei-gamesuncharted-waters-onlineuwovikingsvinlandWed, 21 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: How to fit the Enyo and Ishkur]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/eve-evolved-how-to-fit-the-enyo-and-ishkur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/eve-evolved-how-to-fit-the-enyo-and-ishkur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/19/eve-evolved-how-to-fit-the-enyo-and-ishkur/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
When tech 2 ships were first introduced to EVE Online, the first models off the production line were interceptors and assault ships. Interceptors served as agile tacklers with unmatched speed and maneuverability, while assault ships provided a slower but tankier option. Each race's assault ship had a bonus to its racial resistances, making it an incredible tank against certain damage types. This made it great for ninja-ratting in nullsec or tackling larger ships of a particular race. When subsequently released ships were also given this racial resistance bonus, the assault frigate lost part of what made it so useful. Players have begged for an assault ship buff for years, and in Crucible, it finally arrived.

The Gallente Ishkur and Enyo have always been capable PvE ships for speed-running low-level missions or ninja-ratting in nullsec, but with Crucible, they've become absolute monsters in both PvE and PvP. With the maneuverability and signature radius of a frigate but more tank and damage output than a tech 1 cruiser, both ships are incredibly fun to fly. Drone users will probably prefer the Ishkur, but the Enyo's raw damage output and buffer tank are truly terrifying.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I offer PvE and PvP setups for the Gallente Ishkur and Enyo to help you get the most out of these incredible revamped ships.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: How to fit the Enyo and Ishkur

MassivelyEVE Evolved: How to fit the Enyo and Ishkur originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescrucibledamagedpsenyoeveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedfrigateguideishkurpvepvpsandboxsci-fishipship-fittingSun, 19 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Epic adventure, revenge, and an interview with Adam Ihle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/captains-log-epic-adventure-revenge-and-an-interview-with-ad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/captains-log-epic-adventure-revenge-and-an-interview-with-ad/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/captains-log-epic-adventure-revenge-and-an-interview-with-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Enterprise F Dry Dock
This week, after what seemed like an interminable period of waiting, Star Trek Online's acting Executive Producer Stephen D'Angelo posted a dev blog that outlines most of the details for STO's second anniversary events.

Beginning Thursday, February 2nd, STO will see the return of the infamous Q and his mischievous ways. Players are invited to sign in every day between February 2nd and 6th to participate in a challenge handed down by Q. After doing the entity's bidding, players will be rewarded with a different daily prize, although what those four prizes are has not been revealed.

However, the news that really has the playerbase buzzing is the announcement that the new and very highly anticipated Federation and Klingon flagships will also be up for grabs -- for free.

I will be outlining D'Angelo's follow up posts that give us more details into both ships. Also, in light of the announcements, I took the opportunity to catch up with Adam Ihle, whose winning starship design became the inspiration for the final look of the Odyssey class; we'll hear his reaction to the ship's debut in the game.

Continue reading Captain's Log: Epic adventure, revenge, and an interview with Adam Ihle

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Epic adventure, revenge, and an interview with Adam Ihle originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-ihleanniversarycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosfeaturedperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentPWEsci-fishipst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarshipstephen-dangelostosto-gameplaytrek-onlineSat, 28 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Videos document player battle with ArcheAge's Kraken]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/videos-document-player-battle-with-archeages-kraken/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/videos-document-player-battle-with-archeages-kraken/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/videos-document-player-battle-with-archeages-kraken/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

ArcheAge
If you haven't gotten enough of ArcheAge's ridiculously gorgeous graphics and sailing mechanics, then prepare to wet your whistle on not one, not two, but three new videos showing off ocean exploration and monster encounters.

Sailing and ship combat is one of the lesser-utilized mechanics in the MMO field, so if ArcheAge can pull it off, then it might make waves. Figuratively speaking. These three videos document an encounter with the fearsome Kraken -- giant squid with an anger management problem -- and what happens to a fragile wooden boat that sails into its waiting tentacles.

According to the video, the Kraken has nearly a million hit points and can smash entire armadas with impunity. The videos show a fleet trying to take on the fearsome underwater world boss, but the players are only able to make a dent for all their efforts.

Conquer your fears of the unknown by hitting the jump and checking out this impressive beta footage!

Continue reading Videos document player battle with ArcheAge's Kraken

MassivelyVideos document player battle with ArcheAge's Kraken originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archeagebetaclosed-betagiant-squidkrakenocean-combatsailingsailing-combatsandboxsea-combatshipship-combatshipssquidvideovideosworld-bossxl-gamesxlgamesWed, 28 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR: Starship operator's guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-starship-operators-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-starship-operators-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/swtor-starship-operators-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

SWTOR - Starships
Congratulations, you are now the proud owner of an actual, factual, interstellar starship! Or you soon will be, assuming that you're planning to play Star Wars: The Old Republic.

Starships have captured the imaginations of Star Wars fans for over three decades now, as the Millennium Falcon, Luke's X-Wing, Boba Fett's Slave-1, and Knights of the Old Republic's Ebon Hawk have become geek cultural icons. It's not Star Wars without the stars, after all, which is why BioWare will be handing you the keys to your very own starship as part of your SWTOR journey.

But what does that entail? There's a lot of confusion and misinformation swirling about starships, which is unfortunate. SWTOR's starships are part player housing, part combat vehicle, and part story platform, and that combination lacks an easy analogue in other MMOs. That's why you've got this handy holocron with all of the starship "must knows" to aid your initial voyage to the stars!

Coordinates for the jump are plotted. Punch it, reader!

Continue reading SWTOR: Starship operator's guide

MassivelySWTOR: Starship operator's guide originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecraftingcrew-skillsdroiddroidseaea-biowareElectronic-Artsfeaturedguideshipspacespace-combatspaceshipstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarshipstarship-guidestarship-operator-guidestarshipsswtorswtor-gameplay-guideswtor-guideswtor-launch-guidethe-old-republictorvehicleMon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Supremacy puts players' artistic ability to the test with new contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/star-supremacy-puts-players-artistic-ability-to-the-test-with-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/star-supremacy-puts-players-artistic-ability-to-the-test-with-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/23/star-supremacy-puts-players-artistic-ability-to-the-test-with-n/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Example contest entry
Star Supremacy entered open beta earlier this month, and the game's developer, Barbily Games, wants to give one lucky player an opportunity to have his or her artwork turned into an in-game ship. That's right, Star Supremacy wants your ship designs, and the winning entry will be used to create a new spacecraft within the game. There's only one week left in the competition, so if you want to put your artistic skills to the test, just head on over to the game's official site.

[Source: Barbily Games press release]

MassivelyStar Supremacy puts players' artistic ability to the test with new contest originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artbarbily-gamescompetitioncontestf2pfree-to-playshipship-designspaceshipspaceship-designstar-supremacyWed, 23 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online reveals Amarr tier 3 battlecruiser, the Oracle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/eve-online-reveals-amarr-tier-3-battlecruiser-the-oracle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/eve-online-reveals-amarr-tier-3-battlecruiser-the-oracle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/eve-online-reveals-amarr-tier-3-battlecruiser-the-oracle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Oracle image
Last year graphic designers and EVE Online fans from across the world competed in CCP Games' huge Design-a-Starship contest. The ultimate contest winner was the incredibly impressive Minmatar Tornado, which was meant to be implemented in the game shortly after winning. The ship's implementation was delayed until earlier this month, when CCP announced that the Tornado would be one of four new battlecruisers hitting EVE with the winter expansion. The new tier three battlecruisers are designed to use battleship-sized weapons and are specialised for mid range to long range combat.

In a new devblog today, CCP Guard revealed the Amarr tier three battlecruiser: the Oracle. Originally named the Mentor by its creator Alexey M, the Oracle appears to quite literally be a stripped down forward section of the popular Armageddon. The ship joins the Minmatar Tornado and Gallente Talos as yet another entry from last year's design competition to be implemented in the game. The Caldari battlecruiser is still to be revealed, but we got a first glimpse of the ship from yesterday's In Development video devblog and can confirm that it is also a player-submitted design.

MassivelyEVE Online reveals Amarr tier 3 battlecruiser, the Oracle originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlecruiserccpccp-eveccp-gamescompetitiondesigneveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinenewsoracleshipstarshiptier-3Wed, 02 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New EVE video devblog series shows off revamped nebulae]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/new-eve-video-devblog-series-shows-off-revamped-nebulae/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/new-eve-video-devblog-series-shows-off-revamped-nebulae/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/29/new-eve-video-devblog-series-shows-off-revamped-nebulae/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EVE gets new nebula effects
With CCP Games' recent refocusing on in-space content for EVE Online, developers on the floor have been working harder than ever to bring us shiny new toys for the winter expansion. We've already heard that the player-designed Tornado would be released as part of a new tier of gun-heavy battlecruisers, and CCP has gone on to show off the Gallente design also hand-picked from contest submissions.

This week's absolute flood of good news for EVE Online players continues with the first of a new video devblog series shot at CCP's Reykjavik headquarters -- the development hub for EVE. Part 1 of this look at the art department shows off the incredible new nebula graphics we'll be getting as part of the expansion, and hints at the development of a new model for the popular Caldari Raven. The Raven update is part of what Art Manager Benjamin Bohn calls the V3 project, a project that has brought us the new Scorpion model and will continue to deliver revamps of old ships.

Skip past the cut to watch the first in this new video devblog series. Note to viewers: The presenter is in fact carrying a microphone and not a live hand grenade.

Continue reading New EVE video devblog series shows off revamped nebulae

MassivelyNew EVE video devblog series shows off revamped nebulae originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdev-diarydevelopersdevelopmenteveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinegraphicsmmo-industrynebulanebulaenebulasnewsravensci-fishiptornadov3-projectvideoSat, 29 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online adding implants to killmails]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/eve-online-adding-implants-to-killmails/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/eve-online-adding-implants-to-killmails/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/eve-online-adding-implants-to-killmails/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online title image
When a ship is destroyed in EVE Online, half of its fitted modules are destroyed and half are dropped as loot. When EVE was young, the list of modules destroyed and dropped in a kill was sent in an in-game mail to both the victim and the player who got the killing blow. Today the killmail is stored in a players' character sheet rather than clogging up his inbox, providing a record of all the ships he's killed and those he's lost in combat. When you destroy a player's escape capsule, however, all you're left with is a blank killmail and a tasty corpse floating in space.

In a new devblog, CCP Masterplan describes the introduction of one of EVE's most requested features: implants on pod killmails. When an escape pod is destroyed, a list of all the expensive implants installed in the corpse's head will be added to the currently blank killmail, letting players put a much more accurate value on successful kills. This comes as good news to corporations and alliances judging their war performance using killboard valuations.

MassivelyEVE Online adding implants to killmails originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdeathdev-diarydevblogeveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinekillmailkillmailspatchpodshipwarThu, 20 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Photo from the event
Captain's Log, Stardate 65131.6...

Hello, computer (and players)! I seem to mention this all the time, but I believe it to be true: The developers working on Star Trek Online are more transparent with their work than the devs of most other games. Whether or not this transparency has been always been a good thing is debatable, though. Still, no matter what one's thoughts on this are, I think we can all agree we like to be "in the know" when it comes to new things in development. This past weekend, a select group of STO players was able to attend another Dine with the Devs event, hosted by yours truly, where transparency was taken to the next level.

As I let you all know last week, the second-ever Dine with the STO Devs event coincided with some STO devs' visit to the Star Trek Las Vegas convention. Over 50 players gathered at a local Vegas restaurant to eat, drink and bombard Cryptic's developers with their most burning questions. Because 99.99% of the game's players were unable to attend, I captured the entire event on audio and would like to present you with a basic transcript of the evening's events. So make some food, grab a drink, and get ready to fire up the Holodeck for another edition of Captain's Log.

Ensign, warp 10! Auxiliary power to the Holodeck matrices and brace for impact...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andoriaBorgcrypticcryptic-gozercryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopersdine-with-the-devsdinnerexplorationfeaturedfleetfleet-actionfleetsfoundryfoundry-missionfoundry-missionsgozericonianiconiansinto-the-hivejheiniglas-vegasMeetupnevadapokerpriority-onepvpq-and-ashipshipsst-onlinestastar-trekstar-trek-las-vegasstar-trek-las-vegas-conventionstar-trek-onlinestfstfstargtargstholiantholiansthomasthecrypticcattribbletribblestricorderUIzeroniusrexThu, 18 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Always in motion is the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/hyperspace-beacon-always-in-motion-is-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/hyperspace-beacon-always-in-motion-is-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/hyperspace-beacon-always-in-motion-is-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Boot your navi-computer, angle your deflector shields, and prepare for the jump to lightspeed. This year will be the greatest year in the history of MMO gaming. I don't mean because Star Wars Galaxies is shutting down, because it's not, and that would be a sad year. I mean that the most anticipated game in the history of MMOs will be released this year. Star Wars: The Old Republic will make its way to our doors and our hearts this spring. (I cross my fingers, hoping for no delay, but I know it's probably inevitable.)

As the release nears, we will certainly see a plethora of updates and secret reveals. We had our share of SWTOR news last year, and as with every game, the hype-machine presses on with a fevered fervor towards its zenith. There is so much we know about this game already, yet at the same time, we know very little. We are really like a Miraluka on a Vong ship. (You get 500 fanboy points if you understand that reference.) We keep bumping into walls, but we don't really see the whole picture. Honestly, I question whether I want to know the whole picture before the game is released.

Let's tap into our Force foresight a bit today to see whether we can muster a few visions. Maybe we'll see a city in the clouds; maybe we'll see our friends being tortured. Maybe we'll find out we are really Revan! What will be revealed in 2011? Follow me after the break to find out!

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Always in motion is the future

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Always in motion is the future originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareblaine-christinecustomizationEAElectronic-ArtsendgamefeaturedLucasArtsplanetplanetsPredictionsraidingRevanshipshipsspaceshipspaceshipsspeciesspeculationStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorTue, 04 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Gambling away all your ISK]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/17/eve-evolved-gambling-away-all-your-isk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/17/eve-evolved-gambling-away-all-your-isk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/17/eve-evolved-gambling-away-all-your-isk/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online is said to be a game in which you can do literally anything you set your mind to. It doesn't matter whether your ambition is to climb the alliance ranks, become the scourge of low-security space or even just fly around space telling jokes. If you can conceive of an idea that can be carried out in-game, it's probably a perfectly viable way to play the game. Over the years, players have come up with a number of unique and unconventional gameplay styles. Most of them began as ways for the pilots involved to make ISK or gain notoriety, but some were created just to see if it could be done. I've seen everything from player-run graveyards for the victims of piracy to players renting kill-boards for ISK, and yet the EVE community never ceases to amaze me with the new ways people find to play the game.

The most recent development to blow me away is SOMER.blink, a website where players can gamble their ISK to win fabulous prizes. Gambling in EVE is nothing particularly new; players have been wagering ISK on everything from lotteries to hands of poker for a long time. What makes SOMER.blink special is its absolutely flawless execution. Almost everything is automated, from the transfer of ISK into your account balance to the prize lotteries themselves. The website itself is even accessible from outside EVE once ISK has been deposited in your wallet. I've spent hours so far blinking away on lotteries and losing quite a bit of ISK, but I'll be damned if it hasn't been fun.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look into the addictive phenomena of Somer.BLINK and try to explain where all my damn ISK went.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Gambling away all your ISK

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Gambling away all your ISK originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blinkcasinoccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedgamblegamblinggaminginterstellar-kreditisklotterylottoprizeshipsomersomer.blinkwhere-the-hell-did-all-my-isk-gowinSun, 17 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dedicated salvage ship coming in next EVE Online expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/19/dedicated-salvage-ship-coming-in-next-eve-online-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/19/dedicated-salvage-ship-coming-in-next-eve-online-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/19/dedicated-salvage-ship-coming-in-next-eve-online-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Over the summer, CCP gave away a limited edition ship in EVE Online called the Primae. Every player received this free hauler designed specifically for planetary interaction. Although the ship itself was worse for hauling than a standard industrial, players fell in love with the model and began asking CCP to reuse it in a more useful ship. In a new devblog, CCP Greyscale has delivered on those wishes with the announcement of the Noctis.

Aimed squarely at PvE players, the Noctis is a dedicated salvage ship with the same stunning model as the Primae. In addition to an impressive eight high slots for use with tractor beams and salvagers, the ship also has an hefty bonus to the range and speed of tractor beams. At level 5 of the ship's skill, it will be able to pull in wrecks from up to 80km away, making it a great stationary salvaging platform. The blueprint and skill will be released with EVE's next expansion to coincide with the new group PvE "incursions". For more details, check out CCP Greyscale's latest devblog.

MassivelyDedicated salvage ship coming in next EVE Online expansion originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexpansionnoctisPrimaePrimae NoctisPrimaeNoctissalvagesalvagingshipSun, 19 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bioware discuss SWTOR player ships, group gameplay and PvP at E3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/bioware-discuss-swtor-player-ships-group-gameplay-and-pvp-at-e3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/bioware-discuss-swtor-player-ships-group-gameplay-and-pvp-at-e3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/bioware-discuss-swtor-player-ships-group-gameplay-and-pvp-at-e3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Fans of Star Wars: The Old Republic have been spoiled at this year's E3, with new game trailers and talks on what we can expect from the game when it launches. Earlier today, we learned the surprising fact that each player would get his own starship and got a first glimpse of what lies ahead for SWTOR's PvP. At their latest presentation, Bioware have now confirmed that space exploration will be a part of the game, using a system very similar to that used by Mass Effect's Normandy. They went on to disclose two of the classes of ship players will be able to get in the game. Players siding with the Republic can get their hands on the Corellian Vanguard light corvette while Imperial players can get the Fury Class Imperial transport.

Skip past the cut to watch this awesome video of SWTOR's ship interiors and find out what's in store for PvP and group gameplay.

Continue reading Bioware discuss SWTOR player ships, group gameplay and PvP at E3

MassivelyBioware discuss SWTOR player ships, group gameplay and PvP at E3 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlegroundsbiowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtorbreakingcharactercustomisatione3e3-2010eaelectronic-artslucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgpvepvpraidsshipstar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-old-republictrailervideowarzonewarzonesTue, 15 Jun 2010 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Insurance evolved]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/25/eve-evolved-insurance-evolved/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/25/eve-evolved-insurance-evolved/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/25/eve-evolved-insurance-evolved/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


The EVE Evolved column hits its second anniversary in two days on April 27th. To celebrate, last week I gave readers the chance to win an expensive faction battleship of their choice worth around 500 million ISK. You submitted a horde of great ideas for future column posts, which I whittled down to a final list of 49 fantastic ideas that would really suit the column. It was really tough to find one topic amongst them all that I liked best and wanted to write up first. Congratulations go to Massively reader Nanoko for making my personal favourite suggestion. In addition to winning a faction battleship, Nanoko's winning idea forms the basis for this week's anniversary edition of the column on the upcoming insurance changes and the impact they'll have on EVE. Special mention goes to Massively reader Aimlis who came up with a similar idea. It was unfortunately a little too close to Nanoko's suggestion, which came first. Nanoko has been contacted to arrange receipt of the prize!

At the end of March, CCP announced that the Tyrannis expansion would include a wave of changes to ship insurance. Currently, players receive insurance payouts for losing a ship based on the value of the minerals that went into its construction. The mineral values used in this calculation are as old as EVE Online itself and over the years have slowly dropped out of step with market prices. As a result, Tech 1 ships are almost free to lose under the current insurance scheme while Tech 2 and 3 losses are barely compensated for at all. Once Tyrannis hits, CCP will periodically adjust the mineral prices used in insurance calculations based on a weighted average of market prices across EVE. This has huge implications for PvP, the composition of fleets and the mineral market.

In this speculative opinion piece, I examine the effect the insurance changes could have on everything from ships used in PvP to the mineral market.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Insurance evolved

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Insurance evolved originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Apr 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdr-eyjogdr-eyjolfur-gudmundssoneconomyeveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedfleetfleetsganginsurancemarketmineralsopinionpvpshipshipsSun, 25 Apr 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with Star Trek Online's space combat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/hands-on-with-star-trek-onlines-space-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/hands-on-with-star-trek-onlines-space-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/hands-on-with-star-trek-onlines-space-combat/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Space battles in Star Trek Online are going to be a big selling point for many a Trek fan. I recently got some hands-on time with the closed beta and found several interesting talking points to deliver like hot fresh delicious phasered pizza. I imagine some of you are quite up to snuff on the basics of combat in Star Trek Online, so if you find your interest waning I suggest skipping ahead into the analytical aspect of this feature.

Gallery: Star Trek Online Gallery

Continue reading Hands-on with Star Trek Online's space combat

MassivelyHands-on with Star Trek Online's space combat originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricombatcrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedguideshands-onmassively-hands-onpreviewshipspacespace-combatstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestosto-featuredTue, 01 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Mission-running ship design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/05/eve-evolved-mission-running-ship-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/05/eve-evolved-mission-running-ship-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/05/eve-evolved-mission-running-ship-design/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

In last week's first instalment of this guide, I explained the basics of mission-running in EVE Online and how to find your best agent. In this second part of the guide, I get into the nitty gritty details of essential ship designs for mission-runners. Choosing an appropriate ship and fitting it adequately are arguably the two most important factors in mission-running. While having a weak mission strategy and poor support skills can cause a lot of bother, a poorly designed ship is almost guaranteed death on some of the tougher missions. With the advice in this guide, a little research and a good deal of practice, you'll be well on your way to becoming a mission guru.

Read after the cut for a race-by-race break-down of EVE's most popular and effective mission-running ships, complete with links to some further reading and popular mission fittings.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Mission-running ship design

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Mission-running ship design originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpccp-gameseveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedgallentejoystiqfeaturesminmatarmissionshiptankSun, 05 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively interview: Jumpgate Evolution and the art of ship design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/massively-interview-jumpgate-evolution-and-the-art-of-ship-desi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/massively-interview-jumpgate-evolution-and-the-art-of-ship-desi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/massively-interview-jumpgate-evolution-and-the-art-of-ship-desi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We recently had a chance to speak with Darren Klein, NetDevil's art director for Jumpgate Evolution. He's got plenty to say about the design process that goes into creating the ships for their upcoming space shooter MMO. It's a very interesting read, too. Example: you wouldn't have guessed that it only takes about five days to design a ship from start to finish.

Not only do we have an interview, we've got a couple exclusive new screens from the game to check out in our gallery. Follow the link below for the complete interview.

Gallery: Jumpgate Evolution Gallery

Continue reading Massively interview: Jumpgate Evolution and the art of ship design

MassivelyMassively interview: Jumpgate Evolution and the art of ship design originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 May 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemastersdarren-kleinfeaturedgazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilshipshipsFri, 22 May 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Making EVE beautiful]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/12/eve-evolved-making-eve-beautiful/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/12/eve-evolved-making-eve-beautiful/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/12/eve-evolved-making-eve-beautiful/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


When it was released back in 2003, EVE Online was one of the most visually impressive games on the market. Over the coming years, the graphics aged gracefully next to competitors on the market and all seemed well. Nonetheless, CCP were not content to let their flagship game's graphics eventually go out of date. In true CCP style, they developed a long-term staged delivery plan for the complete overhaul of the game's graphics. The first stage of delivery came with the Trinity expansion, in which a premium client was launched with incredible high resolution ship models. This was just the first stage in a plan to keep EVE graphically ahead of any competitors.

In this technical article, I look at the science of making EVE beautiful and examine CCP's plans for the future.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Making EVE beautiful

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Making EVE beautiful originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Apr 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationapocryphaccpccp-gameseveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionfanfestfeaturedGPUgraphicsjoystiqfeaturesmodelneutralisernosferatuplanetsshadershipspecial effectsSpecialEffectsstasistrinityvisual computingVisualComputingwebSun, 12 Apr 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Making the most of your EVE Online free trial]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/29/eve-evolved-making-the-most-of-your-eve-online-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/29/eve-evolved-making-the-most-of-your-eve-online-free-trial/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/29/eve-evolved-making-the-most-of-your-eve-online-free-trial/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


Like many MMOs, EVE Online offers a free trial to let players try the game out before they buy it. While this lets you see if you like the gameplay before committing, the sheer scope of EVE makes it practically impossible to experience everything the game has to offer within the trial period. Additionally, since the learning curve is relatively steep to begin with, it's very easy to become overwhelmed in a short trial period. These factors can make it hard to experience what EVE is really like, meaning it's hard to make an informed decision.

In this guide, I explain how you can maximise your time and fun with the EVE free trial and help make an informed decision on whether it's the game for you.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Making the most of your EVE Online free trial

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Making the most of your EVE Online free trial originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buddy keyBuddyKeyccpccp-gamescorpcorporationeveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedfreefree trialFreeTrialfrigateguildjoystiqfeatureskestrellearning curveLearningCurvepunisherriftershiptrialtristanMon, 29 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Another favorite first ship]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/one-shots-another-favorite-first-ship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/one-shots-another-favorite-first-ship/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/one-shots-another-favorite-first-ship/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We recently ran a screenshot from our very own EVE Online fiend, James Egan, of his favorite first faction ship. Since then, other EVE Online players have written in to send us some of their favorite ships as well! Today's cool first ship comes to us from Jonathan C. (sorry, no character name given) who sent in the above image of his Angel Cartel frigate. Jonathan writes: I still fly my Dramiel around from time to time. Not really much of a ship, but it can be fun, and I still love how it looks. For a frigate class, we have to agree; the Dramiel is pretty wicked looking.

If you've got a favorite method of transport in your game (be it a ship, a horse, flight form, or what have you) we'd love to see it. After all, the achievement is more fun when you can show it off -- and what better place than One Shots? Just send those screenshots in along with your name, game and a quick description of what we're seeing in the image. Mail them to us at oneshots AT massively DOT com and relax. We'll post them for everyone to enjoy and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots



MassivelyOne Shots: Another favorite first ship originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angel-cartelccpcrowd-control-productionsdramieleveeve-onlinefrigatejonathan-cone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotsshipMon, 03 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Discover which Jumpgate Evolution ship is right for you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/20/discover-which-jumpgate-evolution-ship-is-right-for-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/20/discover-which-jumpgate-evolution-ship-is-right-for-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/20/discover-which-jumpgate-evolution-ship-is-right-for-you/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If you'd like to get an early taste of what ship types will be offered in Jumpgate Evolution, then head on over to their ships page and take a gander. For the time being NetDevil is showing off combat, mining and transport ship types on its website. That's a lot to choose from, but thankfully you're not left in the dark on any ship. There are paragraph long write-ups on everything from heavy military escort ships up to speedy blockade runners.

We're looking forward to darting our way through some contested space in our "GZ 23 Mad-Rabbit" (yes that's a made up name) to make a quick buck. Of course, we're sure that somebody will try and blow us into frozen space giblets with a light interceptor. That's what we (will eventually) get for trying to earn money by selling armaments between opposing factions, we (at a later date, will) suppose.

MassivelyDiscover which Jumpgate Evolution ship is right for you originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 20 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemastersgz-23-mad-rabbitjumpgate-evolutionnetdevilshipshipsspaceSat, 20 Sep 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Cryptic explains how Star Trek Online will handle canon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/ask-cryptic-explains-how-star-trek-online-will-handle-canon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/ask-cryptic-explains-how-star-trek-online-will-handle-canon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/ask-cryptic-explains-how-star-trek-online-will-handle-canon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


The latest Ask Cryptic focusing on Star Trek Online addresses a number of questions sci-fi fans have about where the IP is heading in the MMO space. Not surprisingly, many of the questions asked of Cryptic deal with how well they'll adhere to Star Trek canon.

The Cryptic Studios devs were asked about how they would handle the iconic story and characters of Star Trek, namely with voiceovers and cut scenes. The devs state that Star Trek Online avoids issues of tampering with Trekkie canon by setting the game in 2409, a good 30 years after Star Trek: Nemesis and Star Trek: Voyager. So while some of the locales familiar to Star Trek fans will be present in the game, players shouldn't expect to bump into any (or many) familiar faces.

Continue reading Ask Cryptic explains how Star Trek Online will handle canon

MassivelyAsk Cryptic explains how Star Trek Online will handle canon originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticbackstorycanoncaptain-janewaycaptain-picardcrypticcryptic-studioscut-scenecut-scenesdefiantforumsfuturegame-mechanicsipjanewaylorenemesisnew-titlespicardpsionicspvpracesroleplayingscalesci-fisettingshipshipsstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestarshipstrekkietrekkiesvoiceoversFri, 05 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A look at EVE Online's combat basics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/a-look-at-eve-onlines-combat-basics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/a-look-at-eve-onlines-combat-basics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/a-look-at-eve-onlines-combat-basics/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Jim Rossignol has become well-known in the game journalism scene, more recently as a regular contributor at RockPaperShotgun and the author of This Gaming Life. Along the way, he's become a veteran EVE Online player, and he's passing along some of that combat know-how to readers in a series of articles at Eurogamer. Rossignol is starting out slow with the first installment, easing readers into "the basic principles of killing people," but he'll progress to more advanced aspects of combat and conflict in EVE. Ultimately, he hopes to introduce players to the ambitions and tactics of New Eden's alliances, which can number well into the thousands of players.

In 'combat basics', Rossignol relates the basic principles of combat in EVE Online to the standard groupings of damage, tank, crowd-control, and healer that most MMO gamers are familiar with from other titles. He notes that these combat roles are quite different in EVE, as a given ship's module fittings give players a great deal of flexibility, but of course makes for a more complex PvP system. Rossignol touches on the idea that speed is king in EVE, and he's correct. Just keep in mind that the nano-era's days are numbered, a fact which Rossignol stresses as well. Have a look at Rossignol's combat basics, and his take on the ever-changing state of PvP in EVE Online.

[Via CrazyKinux]

MassivelyA look at EVE Online's combat basics originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescombateurogamereveeve-onlinefittinggame-mechanicshow-tojim-rossignolnanonano-fitnerfpvprockpapershotgunsci-fishipship-fittingspeedthis-gaming-lifewiredFri, 01 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online sale on Steam, this weekend only]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/eve-online-sale-on-steam-this-weekend-only/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/eve-online-sale-on-steam-this-weekend-only/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/eve-online-sale-on-steam-this-weekend-only/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Steam is having a weekend sale which includes the sci-fi MMO EVE Online, now offered for $9.99. The Steam sale pricing ends on Monday, June 9th. If you're interested in giving EVE Online a go, then grab it on Steam now. That's not a bad way to burn $10 and 6 gigs of hard disk space, take it from a convert to the game. And of course you'll get the free Empyrean Age expansion that CCP Games is rolling out on June 11th. Check out Steam's EVE page -- where they're also offering a free 21-day trial -- and who knows, maybe we'll see you in the galaxy of New Eden soon. Just don't get too attached to that ship...

Via Gaming Today

MassivelyEVE Online sale on Steam, this weekend only originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesempyrean-ageeveeve-onlineexpansionnew-edensalesci-fishipsteamsteam-poweredsystem-requirementsSat, 07 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cruise on a luxury liner: The SS Galaxy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/cruise-on-a-luxury-liner-the-ss-galaxy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/cruise-on-a-luxury-liner-the-ss-galaxy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/cruise-on-a-luxury-liner-the-ss-galaxy/#commentsFiled under: ,

The SS Galaxy is impressive. Crossing three simulators and on the order of 600 metres long, it is the single largest structure that we are aware of in Second Life. (If there's something larger than the SS Galaxy, by all means let us know!)

We took a trip to the SS Galaxy this week, and crawled over it from stem to stern, to see exactly what it offered, other than just an event venue.

Gallery: Second Life Places - SS Galaxy


Continue reading Cruise on a luxury liner: The SS Galaxy

MassivelyCruise on a luxury liner: The SS Galaxy originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 May 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturefeaturedsagittariasecond-lifesecond-life-placessecond-life-rentalshipss-galaxyWed, 07 May 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New details on the future of user content in PotBS emerge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/new-details-on-the-future-of-user-content-in-potbs-emerge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/new-details-on-the-future-of-user-content-in-potbs-emerge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/new-details-on-the-future-of-user-content-in-potbs-emerge/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Many people have wanted to get involved and enjoy Pirates of the Burning Sea's user-submitted content system, but as things currently work, the turnaround time between submitting a flag or sail design and actually being able to purchase it in game has left something to be desired. Thankfully, Flying Lab Software realized that this situation needs fixing, and have announced that User Content 2.0 is on the way.

This re-haul of the user content submission process changes the way that player's designs are voted on and approved. Other players will be shown two different designs at a time, and will have to choose which one they think is better/more appropriate to the time. After a design receives a certain amount of winning votes, it goes off to be approved by FLS. To be able to submit more designs, players need to spend some time in the voting process, so there's incentive to do the sorting work. Some other changes to how you can show off your work in the forums are also detailed in the User Content 2.0 announcement.

We haven't been told when exactly the new system will be in place, but for now the old process is still in use. Don't forget that if you're that little bit more adventurous, you can submit a 3D ship model as well, and if this intrigues you then check out the Shipwright Discussion forum -- you'll be in good company.

MassivelyNew details on the future of user content in PotBS emerge originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Feb 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flagflsflying-labpotbssailshipshipwrightuser-content-2.0Thu, 14 Feb 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Getting there]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/19/the-daily-grind-getting-there1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/19/the-daily-grind-getting-there1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/19/the-daily-grind-getting-there1/#commentsFiled under: ,


We have to say, one of the things that we've enjoyed in games was watching the evolution of travel systems. Now, this isn't to poke too much fun at the old way -- after all, a lot of friendships were started while sitting in Butcherblock Mountains or Qeynos in EverQuest and waiting for the boats to show up. (You know, when they actually worked.) But there's something to be said for having your own personal way of getting around quickly -- be it a horse, a super travel-power, a spaceship, or a pirate ship! As games evolve, there are more and more options; Warhammer Online has some pretty cool-looking mounts coming up. On the other hand, games like Perfect World do utterly bizarre things with them like piling people on top of tigers on top of giant flying manta rays like the one in the picture above. Today we'd like to know what your #1 personal method of travel has been in your game? Are you addicted to Flying or Super Jump? Is the Skeletal Warhorse your pick of choice? Is there nothing better for you than a high-end spaceship or a nice heavy pirate ship? How do you get around?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Getting there originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Jan 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredhorsemountpirate-shipshipspaceshipthe-daily-grindtravel-powerSat, 19 Jan 2008 08:30:00 EST