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: What are your favorite jokes of the day?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/the-daily-grind-what-are-your-favorite-jokes-of-the-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/the-daily-grind-what-are-your-favorite-jokes-of-the-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/the-daily-grind-what-are-your-favorite-jokes-of-the-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bard and walrus man - still a better love story than Twilight.
All right, we admit it, you probably haven't seen any April Fool's jokes just yet. It's early. But every year, MMO developers -- and the rest of the Internet -- delight in the absurd, the strange, and the blatantly false. Yes, the first of April is when everyone gets to troll the world just a little bit. And while some people are stalwartly opposed to a day during which you can trust no news and be sure of no announcements, the rest of us just accept nothing useful is getting done today and enjoy it.

So go ahead and see what the various jokes are around the internet. Seriously, we'll wait. Then, let us know your favorites. Maybe it's something everyone loves, maybe it's something no one has seen yet, maybe you're just going to link something on YouTube. The point is, we want to know -- what's your favorite April Fool's joke this year?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers meet to discuss the dark ritual required to summon back the most missed of all features: One Shots. So we're bringing it back today. If you can't trust the footer text today, then who can you trust? In other news, this is today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What are your favorite jokes of the day? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-foolsapril-fools-dayculturedaily-grindhumorlaugh-nowopinionsillysilly-stuffstill-a-better-love-story-than-twilighttdgthe-daily-grindSun, 01 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your favorite quirky dev studio name?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-quirky-dev-studio-name/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-quirky-dev-studio-name/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-quirky-dev-studio-name/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sucker Punch logo
I think it's safe to say that we all love a good sense of humor from our favorite games. One way to spotlight that humor front and center is for the MMO's development studio to name itself something silly or creative.

With some good ones out there like Working As Intended, OneTwoFree, and The Amazing Society, we can see that these companies don't take themselves too seriously -- and that's a good thing!

But now it's your turn. Not only do we want to know what your favorite quirky dev studio name is (MMO or otherwise), we also want to know what quirky name you'd call your own studio, given the chance.

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: What's your favorite quirky dev studio name? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-studiosdevelopmentmmo-industryopinionquirkysillystudio-namestdgthe-daily-grindWed, 12 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What enemies are almost too cute to kill?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/25/the-daily-grind-what-enemies-are-almost-too-cute-to-kill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/25/the-daily-grind-what-enemies-are-almost-too-cute-to-kill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/25/the-daily-grind-what-enemies-are-almost-too-cute-to-kill/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Final Fantasy games are kind of swimming in adorable monsters.
You probably know that in most games, your first enemies are not going to be dragons with jaws that could shred steel. They're going to be something that's fairly non-threatening. But sometimes that goes overboard, and when you step out to do your first quest, the enemies in front of you have all the traits of the most adorable critter ever. Five minutes later, you're finally working up the nerve to actually fight one of them. But you can't because you've already named him Mr. Snuggletimes and you can't stop typing that you'll always remember him.

OK, perhaps that's a touch extreme. But there are enemies in almost every game -- mandragoras from Final Fantasy XI, foxes from Lord of the Rings Online, dragon whelps in World of Warcraft -- that are hard not to find so adorable as to defy your normal killing urge. So what enemies strike you as being almost too cute to actually kill? Given the choice, are there critters you'd rather snuggle than slay?

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: What enemies are almost too cute to kill? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adorable-monstersculturecutecute-animalscute-crittershumoropinionsillytdgthe-daily-grindtoo-cuteSun, 25 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Friendly advice]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/one-shots-friendly-advice/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/one-shots-friendly-advice/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/one-shots-friendly-advice/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You never can tell what kind of strange and interesting people you'll run into at your local MMO tavern. Some prefer to drink and play cards, others prefer to gossip, and then there are those folks who use these social spots to find dungeon groups. Today's image from RIFT not only offers us a look at one such dungeon-running hopeful but also nets us some sage -- and funny -- advice.

Undoubtedly anyone who has raided in World of Warcraft would take exception to the advice today's contributor, Melissa, received from this well-meaning gentleman. However, as this is from RIFT, Melissa wanted to pass it along: "I'm an explorer in MMO cities and will typically go to just about every corner of a building and meet all the town's citizens. In Sanctum I met Mitch, an un-Ascended Adventurer, and he gave me a bit of advice about dungeon fires. He also told me he has trouble finding groups for dungeons, since he can only die once."

We love adventurers who find funny things in familiar MMO landscapes. For that matter, we love seeing games that aren't often featured here too! If you'd like to contribute to One Shots, it's very easy to do. Email a screenshot showing off a slice of life from the MMO you're currently playing to us here at oneshots@massively.com. Make sure you add in your name, the name of the game, and a note about what we're seeing in the picture as well. From there, we'll whip up a One Shots post spotlighting your image and post it here on Massively.

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Friendly advice originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dont-stand-in-the-firemelissaone-shotsraiding-jokeriftrift-planes-of-telarascreenshotscreenshotssillytriontrion-worldsworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 08 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What do you actually think is going on at the studio?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-actually-think-is-going-on-at-the-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-actually-think-is-going-on-at-the-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-actually-think-is-going-on-at-the-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Whether we're playing a game developed by one of NCsoft's many studios or something developed in-house by Turbine, most of us have never been inside the company that actually makes our games of choice. On the rare occasion that we have, it's usually been for a special event rather than an actual work day. And while you know that the team behind Star Trek Online is hard at work, even if you've worked in programming before, part of you has to wonder what goes on behind closed doors.

So while you're off at your job, doing whatever it is that you do, what do you imagine is happening at the development studio? Do you think it's probably more fun than your job? Less? Do you picture a team hard at work or one slacking off and only putting in a token effort at development? Or do you think that the entire thing is a mockery, that there's just one guy coming by on weekends to turn on the content machine for the next major patch? (Please note that there's no such thing as a content machine.)

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: What do you actually think is going on at the studio? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comedicculturedevelopmenthumormetaopinionsillytdgthe-daily-grindworkSat, 26 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/one-shots-imitation-is-the-sincerest-form-of-flattery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/one-shots-imitation-is-the-sincerest-form-of-flattery/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/one-shots-imitation-is-the-sincerest-form-of-flattery/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

There are many different cosmetic costume choices to be found in DC Universe Online, either through gear purchased off vendors or picked up as drops. Thanks to that variety, you stand a good chance of having your character look fairly unique. That is, unless your friends decide to have some fun with the in-game ability to switch costumes at any time. If that happens, you might face a situation like Zlaine shows off in today's One Shots. He writes in to explain:

"I just started playing DC Universe Online a couple of days ago. I was with a group of people doing bounties and we had just finished the Gotham circuit. I wanted to take a screenshot for fun, when the group leader decided to change into the exact same style of gear to spice things up. The similarity is uncanny -- right down to the violet emissive eyes. Seeing double? Don't worry, you're not the only one. Hopefully he won't turn out to be my evil twin a la Katherine from The Vampire Diaries."

Has someone pulled off a practical joke on you in an MMO? Have a screenshot of it? If so, we'd love to see that picture. Email it in to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a note that tells us all about it. Your image could wind up being the next one we post here on Massively!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cosmetic-optionscostumedc-universe-onlinedcuoone-shotsprankscreenshotscreenshotssillysoesony-online-entertainmentzlaineThu, 24 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Casual friday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/one-shots-casual-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/one-shots-casual-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/one-shots-casual-friday/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It is crazy fun being part of the team here at Massively. The sheer amount of chat that goes on about how pants are evil might shock others not used to the dynamics of our motley MMO-loving crew. You know what's even better (or worse, depending on your point of view)? It appears that some of our readers also carry a similar pants-free preference into their games of choice, as proven by this nearly naked dance party that happened recently in RIFT! This image comes to us from Bizket, who writes in to tell us more about it:

"This is Bizket, member of Unrepentant, a Defiant guild on Gnarlwood. Our guild leader, Dao, swam out to an island that you have to take fatigue to get to. The island has a tower with a great view of the burning city in the background. We all stripped, had a few beers, and proceeded to dance. Here is a picture of our party! I'm really loving the game."

Had a great party in your favorite MMO? Perhaps you and a group just got together to take on some bad guys and you captured a moment of the action? Whatever your reason, we're always on the lookout for fun screenshots from all around the MMOGverse. All you have to do is email in your screenshot to us here at oneshots@massively.com. Be sure to include your name, the name of the game, and a note telling us what's going on in the picture. Yours could be the next one we post as part of One Shots!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Casual friday originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bizketnaked-dance-partyone-shotsriftrift-planes-of-telarascreenshotscreenshotssillytriontrion-worldsFri, 18 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Feeling the love]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/one-shots-feeling-the-love/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/one-shots-feeling-the-love/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/one-shots-feeling-the-love/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Anyone who has played EVE Online for any real period of time can appreciate why so many people feel internet spaceships are "serious business." However, much like CCP's own developers and their recent "chessboxing" video, many capsuleers also have a fun-loving side -- despite the dangers in EVE Online. Today's fun screenshot comes to us from Ryan V., who captured this while wandering through New Eden recently and writes in: "This was taken outside of a Space Monkeys Alliance station in the northern nullsec regions. The Space Monkeys are known for their love for bubbles, and this just exemplifies that."

Found a fun interstellar anomaly while adventuring through your favorite space-based MMO? If so, send in a screenshot of it and share with the rest of us! It's easy to do. Email your image to us here at oneshots@massively.com and include your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing in the picture. You never know -- your image could be the next one we feature here on Massively!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Feeling the love originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-onlinenullsecone-shotsryan-vscreenshotscreenshotssillyspace-monkeys-allianceThu, 17 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Good for the gander]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/one-shots-good-for-the-gander/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/one-shots-good-for-the-gander/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/one-shots-good-for-the-gander/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The idea of skimpy armor in a fantasy-based game certainly isn't anything new. Toss a cat, and you're likely to hit a game that offers players ridiculously tiny plate armor. Still, while it is often a contentious issue to some, today's One Shots contributor misterorff tries to offer some levity on the topic by noting how the tables are turned in RIFT. According to his note and screenshot, men are made to wear skimpy-ish armor too. Oh noes! He writes in:

"Another RIFT screen... I know, I know, RIFT overload! I just wanted to point out that instead of objectifying females in RIFT, they objectify us men! This is 'plate' armor -- that does NOTHING to protect my heart. One quick stab and my tank is dead! I'm THIS CLOSE to losing a nipple!"

Whether your character looks like a well-armored armadillo or a woad-covered extra from Braveheart, we love to see MMO screenshots from all manner of people. If you'd like to show off what your character is wearing this season, then email your image to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post it out here and give you the credit for sending it in.

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: Good for the gander originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>intended-as-humormisterorffone-shotsriftrift-planes-of-telarascreenshotscreenshotssillytriontrion-worldsThu, 10 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Empires Online posts first dev diary video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/age-of-empires-online-posts-first-dev-diary-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/age-of-empires-online-posts-first-dev-diary-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/age-of-empires-online-posts-first-dev-diary-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Cross an RTS game over to an MMO? Madness! Well, OK, maybe it's not madness at all, but this new video dev blog from the team behind Age of Empires Online is pretty crazy! In it, we're treated to an interesting look behind the scenes of this upcoming MMORTS title under production at Gas Powered Games. However, as we learn from CEO Chris Taylor, Producer Dex Manely, and Marketing Manager Justin Kirby, there's a lot of brainstorming and work that goes on when it comes to creating interesting video dev blogs for a game.

With fun, stylized graphics, vividly colored environments, tons of action and a pedigree spanning several different popular titles, Age of Empires Online looks like it has a good start. For now, check out the video embedded behind the break, and if the game seems like your idea of fun, head over to the Age of Empires Online site to get signed up for a chance to beta test.

Continue reading Age of Empires Online posts first dev diary video

MassivelyAge of Empires Online posts first dev diary video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-empires-onlineAOEObetachris-taylordex-manelygas-powered-gamesGasPoweredGamesjustin-kirbymicrosoftmmortssillyvideovideo-blogFri, 04 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Newstastic edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/the-mmo-report-newstastic-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/the-mmo-report-newstastic-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/the-mmo-report-newstastic-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welcome back! This week on The MMO Report, Casey Schreiner and the team at G4TV are serving up a heaping helping of highlights, as the news has been crazy busy during the last week. Up first, Casey points out the sales numbers for DC Universe Online, which has been flying off shelves. From there, it's on to Bigpoint Games' upcoming free-to-play browser-based Battlestar Galactica Online, which will either enthrall space-drama fiends, or just give people a reason to say "frak" a lot. Zipping along, it's on to Eskil Steenberg's LOVE, which went through an upgrade while narrowly avoiding a random Craigslist hookup.

Also included are tidbits on an upcoming short documentary on the making of Minecraft, as well as an interesting piece on the MMORPGRTS alphabet soup of Reverie World Studios' upcoming game Dawn of Fantasy. Finally, this week ends out, as most weeks do, with Casey rifling through the best (or worst; we're not quite sure) to be found in Uncle Casey's Mailbag. For all the excitement and more, you can check out this week's episode of The MMO Report embedded for your ocular and aural pleasure behind the break, or catch it every Thursday on G4TV.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Newstastic edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Newstastic edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebigpointbigpoint-gamesbrowser-basedbsgbsgocasey-schreinerdawn-of-fantasydc-universe-onlinedcuoeskil-steenbergfree-to-playg4tvhumorloveminecraftmmonewsprgreverie-world-studiosrtssillysnarksoesony-online-entertainmentthe-mmo-reportuncle-caseys-mailbagupcoming-gamesvideoFri, 28 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 reveals the truth behind the green blob in space]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/wizard101-reveals-the-truth-behind-the-green-blob-in-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/wizard101-reveals-the-truth-behind-the-green-blob-in-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/18/wizard101-reveals-the-truth-behind-the-green-blob-in-space/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you follow astronomy or just like stories about big green things, you probably were aware of last week's photo from the Hubble telescope showcasing an enormous green blob. It's a known spot in space, an enormous region in which new stars are being formed -- although why stars would be forming out in the middle of nowhere has researchers baffled. But researchers from Wizard101 have helpfully taken the opportunity to dispel the mystery, making it clear exactly what the region of space actually is.

Does it look sort of like a giant green frog? Well, that's exactly right.

The discovery was made possible by use of facilities in the ancient undersea world of Celestia, but it still raises a number of new questions. Some of the wizard researchers speculate that the enormous frog might be a powerful minion of Morganthe, while others are certain the frog's appearance is simply a prank by a wizard with more time than common sense. Whatever the case, Wizard101 has helped provide us with the answer to a great scientific mystery, and for that we can all rest a little easier.

MassivelyWizard101 reveals the truth behind the green blob in space originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycelestiacomedyf2pfree-to-playhumorkingsislekingsisle-entertainmentloresillyspacespace-explorationw101wizard101Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Bloopers of 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/01/the-mmo-report-bloopers-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/01/the-mmo-report-bloopers-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/01/the-mmo-report-bloopers-of-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's another holiday week! Rather than just rehashing the best of 2010 or giving us another chance to check out Uncle Casey's Mailbag up close and personal, Casey and the team behind The MMO Report on G4TV have instead opted to create a reel of some of the strangest, most irreverent, and downright silly bloopers and out-takes from this season. Aside from the normal tripping over words common to anyone who has ever been stuck behind a microphone, there are also crazy bits where the cast and crew relentlessly mess with Casey, as well as giggling fits, bleeped words, and the general things you'd expect to see.

So whether you're enjoying some time relaxing today or nursing a serious New Year's hangover, check behind the break to enjoy some blooper madness in this week's video from The MMO Report. Alternatively, you can also catch it every Thursday on G4TV.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Bloopers of 2010

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Bloopers of 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blooperscasey-schreinerend-of-the-year-2010G4TVg4tv.comholiday-specialsillythe-mmo-reportSat, 01 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Five MMOs that have gone MIA]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/5-mmos-that-have-gone-mia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/5-mmos-that-have-gone-mia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/5-mmos-that-have-gone-mia/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Unlike Chuck Norris, who seems to hang on as an MMO meme with insane tenacity (perhaps it's that extra fist under his beard), there are a handful of MMOs that appear to have dropped off the radar in the last several months -- if not years. Admittedly, this was originally to be a top 10 list of missing MMOs, but in the last half of this year, several developers have seen fit to thwart our plans by actually releasing information about their games. Shock! Horror!

Nevertheless, I've armed myself with an enormous cup of coffee and plundered the archives of Massively and general press releases for MMOGs that seem to have dropped off the radar. Are they still under development? Will we see some movement on them in 2011? Will it take a Chuck Norris-level feat-of-strength and all-around badassery to pull them back from the developmental abyss they appear to be in? Join me behind the break as I run down some of the MMOs we're still waiting for word on.

Continue reading Five MMOs that have gone MIA

MassivelyFive MMOs that have gone MIA originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bigpointbuffy the vampire slayerbuffy-the-vampire-slayerdtp-gamesend-of-the-year-2010fireflyinfinitymissingmissing-gamesmissing-mmomultiversemultiverse-platformno-news-is-not-necessarily-good-newsotherlandrealuschell-gamessillythe-mummythe-mummy-onlineVaporwareyear-in-reviewFri, 31 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Warcraft's mad cow against the naked orcs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/world-of-warcrafts-mad-cow-against-the-naked-orcs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/world-of-warcrafts-mad-cow-against-the-naked-orcs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/world-of-warcrafts-mad-cow-against-the-naked-orcs/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you've played World of Warcraft for long enough, you know about Gamon. An NPC in Orgrimmar for a relatively standard rogue quest, Gamon's life became a perpetual cycle of death shortly after players found that he could be attacked even by his fellow Horde members. So for Cataclysm, Blizzard Entertainment proved its sense of humor borders on sociopathy by making Gamon a max-level elite who hits like a 747 in a nose dive if anyone is dumb enough to attack him.

As it turns out, 300 naked orcs are precisely dumb enough to attack him.

Again, if you've played World of Warcraft for long enough, watching huge player spectacles is not a new experience. But it's rare that you can get this many people to band together in an effort to kill an enemy whose death does not and has never offered any rewards beyond a death animation. Gary Gannon and the Gamebreaker TV crew did just that as part of their Legendary podcast Cataclysm launch party last week. Click on past the cut for something everyone can enjoy -- half-naked muscular green men stabbing at an enraged bipedal cow.

Continue reading World of Warcraft's mad cow against the naked orcs

MassivelyWorld of Warcraft's mad cow against the naked orcs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcataclysmcomedygamebreaker-tvgary-gannonhumorlegendaryraidraidssillyvideovideosworld-of-warcraftwowwow-cataclysmThu, 16 Dec 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you make ugly characters?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/the-daily-grind-do-you-make-ugly-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/the-daily-grind-do-you-make-ugly-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/the-daily-grind-do-you-make-ugly-characters/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With the Thanksgiving holiday safely behind us, it's now time to assess the damage to our waistlines. With all the leftovers likely making the rounds over this long weekend, it might even be Monday before some of us get back to our normal dietary routines. All the food talk got us to thinking about character customization in MMORPGs, specifically the fact that few games allow you to make unattractive avatars.

Those that do tend to resemble a veritable theater of the absurd, as the silly folks among us delight in making grotesque caricatures and over-the-top uglies. One former Star Wars Galaxies player even made an in-game career out it. Starsider veterans in the audience may remember one Ichben Einberliner, a strange chap who loved to strip his Fat Bastard avatar down to a pair of speedos and do a seductive pole dance for the unfortunate patrons at the Coronet spaceport. Rumor has it that Berliner was even awarded a character badge by SOE GMs (ostensibly for his unique personality) after regaling space travelers with his diaper-clad cabaret act for months on end.

Whether it's the Ichbens of the world or the folks who make bobblehead midgets in Aion, there are always a few on every server. Today's question is two-fold: Do you make unattractive avatars? Why?

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: Do you make ugly characters? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beautycharacter-creationfat-avatarsfat-charactersgame-discussiongamer-discussionmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicssillysubjectivetdgthe-daily-grindMon, 29 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: We play pretend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/one-shots-we-play-pretend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/one-shots-we-play-pretend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/one-shots-we-play-pretend/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ever been stuck in an area waiting for things to get rolling? Oh wait, it's Monday -- that's a pretty common trope in Mondays isn't it? Well, if you've ever hit that type of a snag in your favorite MMO, you'll likely appreciate the ingenuity of today's One Shots contributor, Huggies S., who snapped this disturbingly silly screenshot in the Lord of the Rings Online not too long ago. Rather than be down about getting stuck in an area, he decided to use his imagination and turn it into a wacky adventure. We'll let him explain: "While exploring Moria without leaving the mines for a week, I started going stir crazy without sunlight. So I decided to role-play the mines as a Lore-Master who took the title "Friend of Animals" a little too seriously. This was snapped in a split second before I was yelled at for not paying attention to the orcs."

Why not join the fun and send in your own screenshots to be featured here on One Shots? We love to have lots of different games to pick images from! Just email them to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the game it's from, and a quick note describing the scene. We'll post it for everyone to enjoy and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: We play pretend originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>huggies-slord-of-the-rings-onlinelore-masterlotroone-shotsrole-playscreenshotscreenshotssillyturbineTurbine-EntertainmentMon, 08 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Three years of coffee talk]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/the-daily-grind-three-years-of-coffee-talk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/the-daily-grind-three-years-of-coffee-talk/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/the-daily-grind-three-years-of-coffee-talk/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Three years! Three years we've been here at Massively, talking about all manner of things! Speaking as someone who has been here from the start, it's all been like butter. Like butter, I tell you! Along the way, every morning, we've gotten up, grabbed our coffee and enjoyed some coffee talk here on The Daily Grind. From simple questions about things like favorite music in MMOs to more in-depth discussion about systems, lore, character development, and more, we've given you over a thousand different topics so you could talk amongst yourselves -- like now, when we're a little verklempt.

There. OK. It's passed.

This morning, we thought it would be fun to give you the chance to ask us (and of course, the other Massively readers) something in honor of our third birthday as a site. Ever wanted to know what a day in the Massively virtual offices is like? Does Shawn really have a post-apocalyptic costume? Does Eliot randomly say "kupo?" If you've got burning questions, we've got answers. Just leave them in the box below, bubeleh... and you know... we'll talk.
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: Three years of coffee talk originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>birthdaybirthday-2010hopefully-snl-has-a-sense-of-humor-and-doesnt-sue-usmassivelyquestionssillytdgthe-daily-grindthird-birthdayTue, 02 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: That can't be comfortable]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/one-shots-that-cant-be-comfortable/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/one-shots-that-cant-be-comfortable/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/one-shots-that-cant-be-comfortable/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ah, there's nothing quite as nice after a long day of adventuring than to come back to your house, curl up, and get a good night's sleep. The only thing we'd caution against is leaving all that heavy armor on -- or worse still, one's weapon! Today's Runes of Magic shot comes to us from Abstergo, who apparently was a little too tired after a long day to bother! The note attached to this image read: "Affter a long day of work, Abstergo takes a rest on his bed. Sleeping with an axe in the back must be kind of painful, but he's a tough guy!" Hopefully he had a potion for morning back pain!

If you've taken a silly screenshot of your character that you'd like to share with the rest of us, then send it in! We're always on the lookout for more. Email them in to us here at oneshots@massively.com, and be sure to include your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post it out here and give you the credit for sending it in.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: That can't be comfortable originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abstergof2pfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-interactiveone-shotsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentscreenshotscreenshotssillyWed, 18 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Out on the town]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/the-daily-grind-out-on-the-town/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/the-daily-grind-out-on-the-town/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/the-daily-grind-out-on-the-town/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There are an awful lot of things to do in most MMOs. Sometimes it's the diverse spread of activities available in a game like Final Fantasy XI; other times it's the tiered progression of dungeons in a game like World of Warcraft. Either way, it's all fun, but with a long-term goal in mind. Except that sometimes you wind up getting sidetracked, and the next thing you know you're rolling a new character just to participate in a massed player event, or dancing in the middle of nowhere and giving money to passersby.

Everyone needs a break from the serious from time to time, a chance to head out and just do something silly but fun. One could even argue that roleplaying is by and large something unnecessary for the game itself, but still a fun diversion. In a genre that's occasionally prone to feeling a lot like work, it's good to get the option of stepping back and just enjoying yourself. What's the last activity you took part in that wasn't even remotely progress-oriented but was just fun for the heck of it?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Out on the town originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>funnon-progressionopinionout-on-the-townplayer-eventsplayer-run-eventsrelaxingridiculoussillytdgthe-daily-grindto-say-nothing-of-your-gearscoreWed, 28 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: We are gathered here today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/a-mild-mannered-reporter-we-are-gathered-here-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/a-mild-mannered-reporter-we-are-gathered-here-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/a-mild-mannered-reporter-we-are-gathered-here-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

As suggested in the title, we are gathered here today for a purpose: To celebrate the community of City of Heroes and all of the discussions that they've been taking part in over the past several weeks. (What, you thought it was for Terry? You clearly haven't been following along.) After several weeks with almost non-stop activity, the past couple have been fairly silent, with only a few tidbits off of the official Facebook page to discuss in any depth.

But that hasn't stopped anyone before, and it's not likely to stop anyone now. After all, we've got chatter about when you've played far too much City of Heroes, the day that Mystic Fortune killed someone, and Santa as a crossdresser. No, really. So as long as you don't mind a somewhat more irreverent week of community discussions, click on past the break. (If you do mind it, well, we had a very serious illustration back around here. That's almost as good.)

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: We are gathered here today

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: We are gathered here today originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffscity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcomedycommunitycovcoxfeaturedforumsgame-mechanicshumorncsoftparagonparagon-studiospowerpower-levelssillythreadsWed, 23 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Ambitious]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/one-shots-ambitious/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/one-shots-ambitious/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/one-shots-ambitious/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In the warring lands of Warhammer Online, players are treated to the threat of siege as an everyday occurrence. However, it's not just a question of seeing enemies stomping down the street towards you. What happens when players decide that they make better rulers over the defeated side than the now-deposed rulers do? Well, that's when we get fun Warhammer Online One Shots like today's, sent in to us by Talkan. He writes in with his thoughts:

"After fighting Destruction tooth and nail, we finally assaulted their capital city. Sweeping through the filth-ridden streets, the forces of Order quickly overcame Warlord Tchar'zanek with the aide of King Karl Franz. After his death, I began to scour the area, doing my service as a Witch Hunter to purge every bit of Chaos from the world, when suddenly my playful side got a hold of me. I decided to try the evil tyrant's throne on for size; after all, when we finally destroy the city for good someone will have to lead this area. Might as well be me, right?"

Have you staged a funny screenshot in your favorite MMO? If you have, we'd love to see it. Just email it in to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post it out here for everyone to enjoy and give you the credit for sending it in.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Ambitious originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Jun 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eamythicmythic-entertainmentone-shotspvpscreenshotssiege-of-mirkwoodsillywarcraftWarhammer-OnlineMon, 07 Jun 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Bok bok]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/one-shots-bok-bok/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/one-shots-bok-bok/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/18/one-shots-bok-bok/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sometimes it's the little things that cause us to laugh. What could seem completely innocuous somehow is transformed with just the right point of view and a dash of imagination. Take, for example, this particular screenshot in EVE Online. To most, it's a ship and a can -- pretty common in New Eden. But in the eyes of today's One Shots contributor, Purcival Chubsworth, this quiet EVE Online moment became something just a little bit sillier: "Here's a shot that happened entirely by coincidence. I was sliding into position to do a little mining. I didn't realize it but when my ship came to a stop I was sitting right on top of my secure container. Looks sort of like a robotic chicken laying an egg." Robot chickens (link NSFW) are cool with us, Purcival!

Want to show off your favorite MMO? It's easy! Just email your screenshot to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a quick description. We'll post it out here and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Bok bok originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 May 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpeveeve-onlineone-shotsPurcival-ChubsworthscreenshotscreenshotssillyTue, 18 May 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: When worlds collide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/one-shots-when-worlds-collide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/one-shots-when-worlds-collide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/06/one-shots-when-worlds-collide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

One of the fun things in playing just about any Cryptic Studios game is the crazy things you can do in the character generator. While this is obviously more the case in Champions Online, there is apparently still fun to be had in Star Trek Online's character generator as well, as we see from today's MMO mashup sent in to us by Miqe I. He writes in to tell us more about this odd melding of worlds: "I was thinking... Is it possible to create a Night Elf in Star Trek Online? I only spent maybe a half an hour and came pretty close." We admit, a Night Elf Mohawk vs. Klingon cage match could be fun too.

Have you managed to do something strange in the character creator in your favorite game? We love to see silly screenshots of all the fun things out there in the MMOgscape, and readers help us find so many of them! All you have to do to take part in One Shots is to email your screenshot to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a brief description of the image. We'll post it out here and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: When worlds collide originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 May 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosmiqe-inight-elfone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssillystar-trek-onlinestoworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 06 May 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: A (glitchy) public service announcement]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/01/one-shots-a-glitchy-public-service-announcement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/01/one-shots-a-glitchy-public-service-announcement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/01/one-shots-a-glitchy-public-service-announcement/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While there are undoubtedly bugs and glitches galore out there in the MMO landscape -- and many of them are funny -- we don't often see them used as a form of public service announcement. That is, until today when we opened up the Massively One Shots mailbox and came across this image snapped in Fallen Earth by Joe H. who notes, "I took advantage of the fact that you can walk right through other players' mounts and vehicles to make this PSA screenshot." (If you can't read the text in the image above, just click the image to see the embiggened gallery version.)

If you've found something funny in your world, or used a glitch to silly effect, why not grab a screenshot of it and email it in to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com. Be sure to include your name, the name of the game, and a brief description. Also, please make sure your image is at least 1024 pixels wide and has as little visible UI as is possible. Your image could be the next one featured here on One Shots!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: A (glitchy) public service announcement originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 May 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeicarus-studiosjoe-hone-shotspsascreenshotscreenshotssillySat, 01 May 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Don't jump! Oh wait, you can't]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/one-shots-dont-jump-oh-wait-you-cant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/one-shots-dont-jump-oh-wait-you-cant/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/one-shots-dont-jump-oh-wait-you-cant/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As much as we're all about giving love to Guild Wars here at the Massively virtual offices, there are some parts of the game that just drive us completely bonkers. The inability to jump and smacking into invisible walls are two of the big ones. But for those flaws, the game offers so much more in exchange -- fun events, interesting storylines, no monthly fees, and (surprise) really great visuals like today's One Shots!

This image comes to us from Ian, who writes in: "As Guild Wars celebrates its Five Year Anniversary, the Boardwalk games are up and running again in Shing Jea Monastery. My assassin and her Miniature Burning Titan were on their way to play Nine Rings and work on titles when this beautiful sunset appeared. With so many players focused on the games at hand many likely missed this stunning view. Guild Wars still has such beautiful landscapes after five years and occasionally sends out a simple reminder to slow down and enjoy it all. Happy Birthday Guild Wars!"

From large to small MMOs, we'd love to see your screenshots and hear what you've been up to in your favorite MMOs. All you have to do to have your image featured is to send it in to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name. the name of the game, and a brief description of what we're seeing in the image. Please make sure your screenshot is at least 1024px wide and has as few visible UI elements as is possible. It could wind up being the next one we feature!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Don't jump! Oh wait, you can't originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetguild-warsgwianncsoftno-jumping-for-youone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssillyTue, 27 Apr 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: I shall call him Mini-me]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/one-shots-i-shall-call-him-mini-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/one-shots-i-shall-call-him-mini-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/one-shots-i-shall-call-him-mini-me/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's April Fool's day, and that means there's all manner of craziness going on across the MMO landscape. From bogus upcoming features and races being touted, to crazy in-game shenanigans, our team is out hunting it all down to document for posterity in an upcoming April Fool's Day roundup posting. That said, today Alex was early on the ball this morning and sent us a screenshot of the craziness going on in Guild Wars. Not a regular Guild Wars player who can spot just what's wrong with this picture? Have no fear -- Alex also sent in a note to explain!

"This is my character Necromas Darklight having a little fun with the April Fool's event. They made it so that when in towns and outposts, all the player models were scaled down to minipet sizes and all the minipet models were scaled up to regular sizes. I know it doesn't sound like much but it's gotten everyone running around and meeting up for little parades and celebrations and even thrown the minipet trading market into a frenzy. For this shot I just decided to keep it simple and show off my 'miniature' lich. Sometimes it's just little things like this that go a long way to keeping me interested in the game and having fun."

If you notice something odd in your favorite MMO today, feel free to send in a screenshot to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com too. If we get enough, we might run them in a special April Fool's gallery showing off all the different things that went on today! If not -- we'll probably just show them off over the next few days for those who missed out on the events. Be sure to add in your name, the name of the game, and a description of the shenanigans too. Either way, we'd love to have your tales of tomfoolery!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: I shall call him Mini-me originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexapril-fools-10arenanetguild-warsgwncsoftnecromas-darklightone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotsshenaniganssillyThu, 01 Apr 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anti-Aliased: I've got nothing to hide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/anti-aliased-ive-got-nothing-to-hide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/anti-aliased-ive-got-nothing-to-hide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/anti-aliased-ive-got-nothing-to-hide/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

So, it's late night on Wednesday night, I just got done watching Top Gear, and I need something to write about. Lucky for me that Blizzard has given me the perfect topic -- MMO privacy. Thanks to a new development in their World of Warcraft Armory program, privacy advocates are up in arms and I've got a topic to discuss.

For all those of you who may be late to the game, Blizzard is adding RSS feeds to the Armory. Basically, the Armory will now report on the exact time you do an "Armory worthy" activity, such as boss kills, achievements, item pickups, and more. People can subscribe to your RSS feed, so then they know exactly when you do something in World of Warcraft.

This has, of course, sent privacy advocates into a tailspin of anger. There's no opt-out button for the Armory, so your playing style in World of Warcraft is going to be exposed whether you like it or not. The topic has even spawned a 59+ page thread on the European forums!

So what's my take on it? Well, I'm glad you asked. Here at Anti-Aliased, I've got nothing to hide.

Continue reading Anti-Aliased: I've got nothing to hide

MassivelyAnti-Aliased: I've got nothing to hide originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-aliasedargumentsarmoryblizzardblizzard-entertainmentfeaturedfrivolousplayer-privacyprivacyrss-feedsillytheres-a-twist-at-the-end-so-you-better-not-complainworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraft-armoryThu, 21 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Catch an insider glimpse of a Fallen Earth meeting]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/catch-an-insider-glimpse-of-a-fallen-earth-meeting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/catch-an-insider-glimpse-of-a-fallen-earth-meeting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/catch-an-insider-glimpse-of-a-fallen-earth-meeting/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you ever thought to yourself how cool it would be to work for a video game company - well, obviously you're not alone. However, the team at Fallen Earth, LLC have decided to release a video that's part-trailer and part behind-the-scenes at their indie studio. Entitled only "Fallen Earth Marketing Meeting" it shows off not only the team's passion for Fallen Earth, but reveals that one guy who still hopes for "elves... magic" in the mix. Aww, poor misguided soul.

For a very silly look at an up-and-coming studio (and of course, their new MMO) be sure to check out the very tongue-in-cheek "marketing meeting" video behind the break.

Continue reading Catch an insider glimpse of a Fallen Earth meeting

MassivelyCatch an insider glimpse of a Fallen Earth meeting originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeicarus-studiosindie-studiomeetingpost-apocalypticsillyvideoFri, 02 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How many MMOs do you have installed?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/13/the-daily-grind-how-many-mmos-do-you-have-installed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/13/the-daily-grind-how-many-mmos-do-you-have-installed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/13/the-daily-grind-how-many-mmos-do-you-have-installed/#commentsFiled under: ,

Recently there's been a handful of MMO bloggers who have decided to go on a game purge. The idea is to take a really close look at all the games on your drive and blow all the MMORPGs off your machine that you're not playing anymore - and don't expect to play again. While I'm not suggesting everyone do drive maintenance (of course, if you're in the mood to, feel free) it did stop to make me think. Apparently Ardwulf had 13 MMOs on his drive before he purged them down to 4, Heartless_ went from 6 to (potentially) 2, and while Syncaine doesn't report the number of games blown away in the reformat, he's down to 2 as well. Gordon from We Fly Spitfires isn't quite sure what to uninstall, since - as he rightly notes - MMOs are a pain in the arse to reinstall and patch again later.

In the spirit of a good hard look at your desktop, this morning I figured it would be fun to ask how many MMOs everyone has on their machines currently? I'm a bit of an abberation at 30, however I built my office desktop with 2+ terabytes of drive space specifically so I could leave MMOs on it. (You never know when you'll need to log in for work.) In comparison, my other half (also an MMO fiend) generally keeps only about 4-5 on his drive at a time, if that many. How about you? How many MMOs are currently on your machine? How many are collecting dust? How many are you actively playing?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: How many MMOs do you have installed? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drive-spaceinstalledmmommorpgopinionsillytdgthe-daily-grindSun, 13 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Needs more Snuggie Wizards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/07/one-shots-needs-more-snuggie-wizards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/07/one-shots-needs-more-snuggie-wizards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/07/one-shots-needs-more-snuggie-wizards/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Last night we attended the Sony Online Entertainment party here at Dragon*Con 2009. While there, we were introduced to something new courtesy of EverQuest II's Senior Producer, Alan "Brenlo" Crosby - Snuggie Wizards! Today, in honor of last night's momentous Snuggie Wizard spotting, we bring you a great EverQuest II image from Ratwarlock, MMO blogger, who has sent in several gorgeous EverQuest II images. Ratwarlock writes in: [This] is simply a snapshot of an adventuring party deep within the halls of Guk. Guk is a dungeon zone introduced in the most recent expansion, and is among the hardest 6-man dungeon instances currently in the game. I believe this group was a paladin, a fury, a troubador, a warlock, inquisitor, and necromancer. We'd bet a Snuggie Wizard would tear that place up - or at least make his group-mates jealous of his comfortable warmth, anyway.

If you've got a great image showing a group adventuring, we'd love to see it. Just email it to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a quick description. All games from large to small are welcome! All it takes is a few minutes of your time. (Bonus points for Snuggie Wizard screens.)

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Needs more Snuggie Wizards originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iione-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssillysnuggie-wizardsoesony-online-entertainmentMon, 07 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively multiplayer online... boobs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/massively-multiplayer-online-boobs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/massively-multiplayer-online-boobs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/massively-multiplayer-online-boobs/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Did you know that MMOs and breasts have a long history with one another? It's true, you know. From the time MMOs came onto the scene, so too did scantily clad women with huge hooters. Also, yes, this is indeed one of "those" articles. The article where we talk about breasts seriously, I mean.

Sanya Weathers, no stranger to the MMO industry (or breasts, for that matter) just recently took a pretty funny tour of how breasts work into advertising, whether we like it or not. From box art to marketing departments, she looks at some of the good, the bad, and the downright horrible when it comes to putting hot women on boxes to sell games.

If you're up for a laugh, go check out her article over at MMORPG.com. It's funny, it's insightful, it's historical, and it's full of what men want most -- awesome games. (Get your head out of the gutter if you thought that last line was going to be another boob joke.)

MassivelyMassively multiplayer online... boobs? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blade-and-soulboobsbreastshootersknockersmarketingmmorpg.commmosncsoftsanya-weatherssillywomenMon, 24 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Score some cheap NCsoft game time]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/score-some-cheap-ncsoft-game-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/score-some-cheap-ncsoft-game-time/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/score-some-cheap-ncsoft-game-time/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


If you, like us, are always looking for a way to save a few dollars in your monthly MMO budget, then you may be glad to hear this news. After all, replacing all those robot minions when they get trashed can be really expensive - or maybe that's just us. In either case, if you're an avid City of Heroes or City of Villains, Lineage, or Lineage II player, then you'll be glad to hear that our friends over at GoGamer have a great sale on NCsoft time cards going on now. (We'd assume they'll work on Aion as well, considering their site lists these cards as being valid for Auto Assault....)

Right now, you can score two months of prepaid game time for the seriously cheap price of $18.90. While there is a shipping cost, the charge becomes very minor compared to the overall savings when you stock up on multiple cards. Of course, if you don't really want several months of cheap game time, you could always go in on an order with friends - or just send them to us. We'd gladly take any spare pre-paid time off your hands. Expensive robot minion replacements and all that, you know.

MassivelyScore some cheap NCsoft game time originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionauto-assaultcity-of-heroescity-of-villainsgogamer.comlineagelineage-2lineage-iincsoftrobot-minionssaving-moneysillytime-cardsFri, 31 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Behind me? I'm not falling for that one]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/one-shots-behind-me-im-not-falling-for-that-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/one-shots-behind-me-im-not-falling-for-that-one/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/24/one-shots-behind-me-im-not-falling-for-that-one/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


There's something to be said for putting one over on someone. There again, some bad guys are just stupid to begin with. Take for example this mean-looking bandit from Lord of the Rings Online. You can almost imagine his friends trying to warn him about what's coming, but he doesn't listen. That said, the real story isn't that far off from the made-up one! Artarus from the Snowbourn (EU) server writes in: When you outlevel your enemies you can do all sort of funny things. Dance with them, eat with them, laugh at them, and they wont ever notice you. In Archet, planting a fire arrow in the back of this Blackwold's head adds one to the list.

If you've read this far, it means you like One Shots, so why not do us a favor and send in some screenshots from your MMO gaming? We need lots more screenshot love, and you're the best ones to help us out. Just grab screenshots from your favorite game (or hey, least favorite, if you're playing it) and send it to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name and a quick description. We'll showcase the screenshot and give you the credit for sending it along.

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Behind me? I'm not falling for that one originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artarusflaming-arrow-through-the-headlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssillyturbineFri, 24 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Noisy ninja]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/one-shots-noisy-ninja/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/one-shots-noisy-ninja/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/one-shots-noisy-ninja/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


When we heard the infectious Free Realms theme song by The Dares, we knew we were headed for some silliness. After all, if a game is truly about "your world" as the song declared - meaning player choice - well, that's the stuff today's bubble-gum pink One Shots is made of. It comes to us courtesy of Brian H, who tells us a bit more about this image: Just a fun little screen shot I captured of my level 20 ninja being a real ninja, you know, in pink...

One Shots relies on you, dear readers, to send in your images of adventure, silliness, or battle! It's easy to participate. Just email an interesting, cool, etc. screenshot to us at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a brief description. We'll put it up here for everyone to check out and give you the credit. So send in those screenshots!

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Noisy ninja originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brian-hfree-realmsninjaone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssillysoesony-online-entertainmentTue, 30 Jun 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Obvious statement is obvious]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/one-shots-obvious-statement-is-obvious/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/one-shots-obvious-statement-is-obvious/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/one-shots-obvious-statement-is-obvious/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


We love easter eggs and other strange little things from various video games. Today's One Shots showing one off from EVE Online is pretty fun - and thankfully more OK with the GMs than some of the can art we've had sent in to us. This particular shot was sent in to us by Nicholas J, who also sent the following note: [Here's] a little easter egg that you can occasionally find in a few places. Of course, if you want to see the obvious statement, you'll have to click on through to the full-size image to see it; it just doesn't work when the image is small.

If you've found something strange, unusual, or just easter-eggish on your recent journeys in MMOdom, we'd love to see a screenshot. Just email it to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the game it's from, and a brief description. We'll post it up and give you the nod for pointing it out.

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Obvious statement is obvious originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 May 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpeaster-eggeveeve-onlineone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssillyMon, 25 May 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Snakes on a plain]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/one-shots-snakes-on-a-plain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/one-shots-snakes-on-a-plain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/one-shots-snakes-on-a-plain/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's the blockbuster action-adventure screenshot of the summer! This is the one everybody's been waiting for! It's full of intrigue, sand [snow?], and Age of Conan graphics... it's snakes on a plain! Okay, okay, so we don't know much about this screenshot other than it came from Age of Conan, and it's not really a plain, but that's why we have a note from Brenden M. who sent today's One Shots in to us. He explains a bit about it: Just came out of the black castle in Khopshef Province and saw this view. Thought you might like it. Any screenshot where we get to make a pop-culture reference is cool with us.

It's the weekend! Time for gaming! So when you're out adventuring, why not grab some screenshots to send in to us. Email your images to oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a quick description. We'll post it here and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Snakes on a plain originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 May 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocbrenden-mfuncomone-shotspop-culture-referencescreenshotscreenshotssillysnakes-on-a-plainsnakes-on-a-planeFri, 15 May 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms shows off the fun with their launch video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/free-realms-launch-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/free-realms-launch-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/free-realms-launch-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Today's the day! The crowd over at Sony Online Entertainment are throwing open the doors to their new casual, fun for all ages MMO, Free Realms, and you're all invited. For those of you (maybe all, what, two of you?) who haven't noticed the deluge of Free Realms news we've put out since beta started, SOE has sent along a special video featuring their mascot, Chatty the Squirrel. At least, we think that's a squirrel.

Regardless of just precisely what the madly-coiffed mammal is, one thing you cannot deny is that Free Realms boasts a lot of fun mini-games, a variety of things to do, and the always welcome price tag of free. So while we're waiting for the servers to come up later today, why not enjoy the new Free Realms official launch trailer behind the break. It was voted 'most likely to earwig you with that catchy theme song' by its class.

Continue reading Free Realms shows off the fun with their launch video

MassivelyFree Realms shows off the fun with their launch video originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-realmsfunnylaunchsillysoesony-online-entertainmenttrailerTue, 28 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Nooblegarden]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/one-shots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/one-shots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/one-shots/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


There's something to be said for new characters. Sometimes it's a friend who came to game with us, sometimes it's a new alt, and once in a rare while, it's just a character rolled to relay one very silly image. No, we really don't think that's the only reason Johanis sent in a World of Warcraft screenshot of this shiny new Priestess, but we did get a good chuckle out of it when we read the brief note that came along with it. So, along with Noblegarden frippery, what gave us a smile? Check it out: Here is Faylana, a newly created Priest in World of Warcraft. She is fully enjoying her Spring Festival Dress and Bunny Ears. Next stop... Playboy Mansion!

If you're enjoying a holiday event of some type, why not send in some screenshots of the merriment? We love to see what's going on in different MMOs throughout the year. Just email them to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the game it's from, and a brief description. We'll post them here on One Shots and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Nooblegarden originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardbunny-earsjohanisnoblegardenone-shotsplayboy-bunnyscreenshotscreenshotssillyworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 28 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Pranks, busted]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/the-daily-grind-pranks-busted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/the-daily-grind-pranks-busted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/the-daily-grind-pranks-busted/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Afraid of April Fool's day? Concerned that every single site out there on the web will be spewing forth stuff you can't trust? Have no fear, folks - the Massively team is here! Our leaders have decided that much like last year, today we will use our powers for good. Rather than pranking our readership, we'll work along with you all to hunt down and chronicle any MMO pranks going on out there. Of course, if there's any real news that does somehow land out there today, we'll be sure to report that as well.

If you'd like to join the team for today's Prankbusting efforts, all you have to do is leave a comment here with any MMO game or site pranks you run across. That way we all have the chance to either check them out - or know to avoid them. We'll also be running down things going on in different MMOs so those who don't have subscriptions can still check out the silliness each MMO has to offer.

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Pranks, busted originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-fools-09bustedjokesprankprankssillyWed, 01 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST