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[EVE Singularity UI test coming tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/eve-singularity-ui-test-coming-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/eve-singularity-ui-test-coming-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/13/eve-singularity-ui-test-coming-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online - Helios and a wormhole
It's almost time for the next EVE Online Singularity test. What's Singularity? It's the New Eden equivalent of a test server, and you can connect to it by following the steps for the SisiLauncher tool on the EVE website.

This week's test starts tomorrow at 3:00 p.m. Eastern and will last about an hour. CCP says you'll be testing "performance improvements to the overview window and other parts of the UI," and your character will receive two million skillpoints to distribute as you see fit.

Further info is available on the (new and improved) EVE web portal.

MassivelyEVE Singularity UI test coming tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gameseveeve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsmass-testsandboxsci-fisingularitytestingMon, 13 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New EVE Online launcher will simplify patching]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/new-eve-online-launcher-will-simplify-patching/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/new-eve-online-launcher-will-simplify-patching/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/new-eve-online-launcher-will-simplify-patching/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online title image
EVE Online developer CCP Games has dedicated this winter's expansion to small features, balance changes and small quality-of-life improvements. Most of the changes we've heard about so far have been gameplay features and graphical improvements, from starbase tweaks and blaster balance changes to magnificent new nebula graphics. In a new devblog, CCP Topknot shows off a brand new launcher program designed to simplify the patching process.

Currently, players launching an out-of-date client get a pop-up about the latest patch and have to restart the client. This becomes a nuisance when frequent optional updates are released. The new patcher will work like a standard MMO launcher, detecting which files aren't up to date and downloading new versions. "A big-ass progress bar will tell you what's going on and how much work is left," explains Topknot, "and an unnecessarily huge button allows you to play the game once it is ready."

The new patcher is currently on the test server and should be making its way to the main game with the winter expansion. In the future, the patcher will be able to download updates in the background and may be able to download content in stages, giving new players access to character creation while the game content downloads.

MassivelyNew EVE Online launcher will simplify patching originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesccp-topknoteveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinelauncherlaunchpadnewspatchpatcherpatchingsingularitysisiWed, 09 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE adds more racial captain's quarters to test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/eve-adds-more-racial-captains-quarters-to-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/eve-adds-more-racial-captains-quarters-to-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/eve-adds-more-racial-captains-quarters-to-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Gallente captain's quarters
Those of you chafing under the constraints of the Minmatar captain's quarters released earlier this summer as part of EVE Online's Incarna expansion have reason to celebrate. The other three racially themed quarters have just been deployed to Singularity (that's the test server, for you EVE newbs).

When we say racially themed, we don't mean like an Al Sharpton monologue but rather like the Gallente, Caldari, and Amarr races who, along with the Minmatar, make up EVE's four playable factions. A new dev blog hits the highlights of each CQ, and each one boasts a visual aesthetic that mirrors its race.

Gallente quarters, for example, are "are slick and streamlined -- comfort through elegant design. The mirror is also prominent, since the Gallenteans are known to spend a lot of time in front of it." The Minmatar pad has also been tweaked, and you can read all the details at the official EVE website. Before you go, check out the preview video after the cut.

[Update: CCP has also uploaded a video explaining the new time dilation feature.]

Continue reading EVE adds more racial captain's quarters to test server

MassivelyEVE adds more racial captain's quarters to test server originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldaricaptains-quartersccpccp-gamescqeveeve-onlinegallenteincarnaminmatarsci-fiscifisingularitytest-servertrailervideoFri, 30 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE invites everyone to come Mass Test]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/eve-invites-everyone-to-come-mass-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/eve-invites-everyone-to-come-mass-test/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/eve-invites-everyone-to-come-mass-test/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Every time we hear of a massive battle in EVE Online, we are reminded of how incredible the game is. EVE has continued to separate itself from the other MMOs by being able to handle an exorbitant number of players in a single area. This unbelievable feat is most likely attributed to the rigorous testing from the Q&A team and dedication of the EVE fans. This week, you can help out the CCP development team by participating in Mass Testing.

Mass Testing is CCP's way of gathering a multitude of players in one area to grade server performance before launching new content to the live server. The team checks trend-data, streamlines high-priority changes, and gains critical player feedback. This week's test focuses on the Carbon UI and server remapping.

If you would like to take part in this week's Mass Testing, hop on Singularity at 4 p.m. EDT on Thursday 28th. Remember, this is a stress test, so invite everyone you know! Your grandma has an EVE account, right?

MassivelyEVE invites everyone to come Mass Test originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Carbon-UICCPCCP-GamesEVEeve-onlineinternet-spaceshipsmass-testingpatchsingularitystress-teststress-testingupdateMon, 25 Apr 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE invites players back to try out Incursion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/eve-invites-players-back-to-try-out-incursion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/eve-invites-players-back-to-try-out-incursion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/eve-invites-players-back-to-try-out-incursion/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As anyone who follows EVE Online should know, Incursion, the 14th expansion to the game, will introduce new avatars. For many MMO players, the graphics-quality -- especially the quality of the player character -- is an enormous draw or repellent. CCP recognizes this, so it has offered something not many companies do. The developers would like former players to come back for five days to try out Incursion on the test server Singularity before the expansion is officially launched. Specifically, they would like you to try the character creator and the social media tools in EVE Gate.

This morning many former EVE players received an email asking them to come back. If you had an active account between March 13th, 2009 and November 3rd, 2010, you may want to check the inbox attached to your EVE account, as you probably have an invite in there. Unfortunately, active and expired trial accounts don't count, but Steam is offering a the full downloadable game plus a 30-day subscription.

To read more about the character creator, be sure to check out the developer blog, and while you're there, read up on EVE Gate and its mix of social media and gaming. With Incarna releasing next summer, Incursion is a the perfect opportunity to try out the precursor to walk-on stations -- today.

MassivelyEVE invites players back to try out Incursion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CCPCCP-Gamescharacter-creationcharacter-creatoreveeve-gateeve-onlineincarnaIncursionsingularitysocial-mediaSTEAMsteam-poweredMon, 08 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New EVE character creation videos prove CCP can make pretty humans too]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/new-eve-character-creation-videos-prove-ccp-can-make-pretty-huma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/new-eve-character-creation-videos-prove-ccp-can-make-pretty-huma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/new-eve-character-creation-videos-prove-ccp-can-make-pretty-huma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

While some may not care for the sandbox play and politics of EVE Online, we often hear from people about how graphically gorgeous they think the game is. Well, with the new character creator that's been released to the Singularity test server, CCP is showing that it's ready to rock a whole new way -- Incarna! These two videos preview the shiny new creator in testing, showing off a Caldari Achura female and a Minmatar Brutor male character. We'd also note that CCP has made it clear that the character creator is a work in progress and as such is missing some options currently.

Of course, we'd be lying if we didn't point out that this character creator preview video also makes us squee for CCP's other title under development: World of Darkness. The character creator for that game will have to be able to balance the ethereal beauty of the Toreador clan with the twistedly horrific looks of the Nosferatu clan all in one -- and we'd say this one shows the promise of having that kind of power. Check out the full videos after the break!

[Thanks, CrazyKinux!]

Continue reading New EVE character creation videos prove CCP can make pretty humans too

MassivelyNew EVE character creation videos prove CCP can make pretty humans too originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescharacter-creatoreveeve-onlineincarnasingularitySiSitest-servertestingwodworld-of-darknessworld-of-darkness-onlineFri, 08 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Help EVE's developers get to the bottom of fleet lag this Saturday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/help-eves-developers-get-to-the-bottom-of-fleet-lag-this-saturd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/help-eves-developers-get-to-the-bottom-of-fleet-lag-this-saturd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/help-eves-developers-get-to-the-bottom-of-fleet-lag-this-saturd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The down side to EVE Online's truly massive single-server design that puts all players in the same universe is that lag has been a constant problem since the game's launch. For the most part, the game runs smoothly and lag doesn't affect the day-to-day lives of players. It's when too many players congregate in one place that the server node they're on begins to grind to a halt. Circumstances can rapidly go from bad to worse, with server nodes collapsing under the strain and database failures occurring.

It's been noticed by players that lag in fleet battles has gotten considerably worse since the Dominion expansion came out. To get to the bottom of the issue, CCP Tanis has been scheduling regular test-server events in an effort to replicate the conditions experienced on the main EVE server. By logging a fleet battle in action, CCP hope to find ways to resolve fleet lag and prevent further lag-causing defects from reaching the main server unnoticed. On Saturday 29th May between 20:00 and 21:00 EVE time, CCP will be running an important hour-long testing session. They're asking players to turn up and help out, as they need at least 300 pilots to begin testing and ideally would want over 500. For information on what the testing consists of and how to access the EVE test-server, visit the official mass testing sticky thread on the EVE forums.

MassivelyHelp EVE's developers get to the bottom of fleet lag this Saturday originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 May 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesccp-taniseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefleetlagmass-testingpvpsingularitytesttest-servertestingTue, 25 May 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Help develop Tyrannis on the EVE test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/help-develop-tyrannis-on-the-eve-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/help-develop-tyrannis-on-the-eve-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/help-develop-tyrannis-on-the-eve-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online's Tyrannis expansion is due for release in a few months and players are looking forward to the new planetary interaction mechanic. Although the core ideas for the expansion have been settled on, many of the game mechanics have not been fully fleshed out. In an effort to get players involved, CCP have begun releasing early prototypes of the planetary interaction feature on the EVE test server Singularity. It's important to keep in mind that nothing on the test server is final. As a studio that makes heavy use of agile development strategies, CCP will use feedback from players on the test server to incrementally refine the design.

Dierdra Val, director of EVE University, has been on the test server to bring the EVE community details of CCP's current designs. They've released a video showing the process of installing structures on a planet and setting up factory links. So far, planetary interaction seems very similar to the moon mining and reacting industry but it's definitely a much more active process. While moon mining operations produce an endless supply of moon minerals at a steady rate, planet-based material deposits will vary in total size and yield per cycle. The materials produced on planets are also different than those produced by existing industrial operations.

Skip past the cut to watch EVE University's test-server planetary interaction tutorial or set up a test server client and try it out for yourself.

Continue reading Help develop Tyrannis on the EVE test server

MassivelyHelp develop Tyrannis on the EVE test server originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdierdra-vaaleveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineeve-unieve-universityfeedbackplanetary interbredplanetary-interactionPlanetaryInterbredsingularitytesttest-servertyrannisvideoyoutubeWed, 17 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Testing in EVE, Wednesday, to determine source of lag in fleet battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/mass-testing-in-eve-wednesday-to-determine-source-of-lag-in-fl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/mass-testing-in-eve-wednesday-to-determine-source-of-lag-in-fl/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/26/mass-testing-in-eve-wednesday-to-determine-source-of-lag-in-fl/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


EVE Online's latest expansion, Dominion, brought sweeping changes to how alliances claim and hold space, and more recently revamped capital ship warfare. However, there has been a downside of late in terms of server stability and lag. Twitter is pretty much aflame with players lamenting the server issues, not to mention the forums, and it's something CCP Games needs to address right away.

To that end, CCP is looking to the playerbase for help with "Mass Testing" on Wednesday, to determine the source of lag in large fleet battles. The devs will be looking into the problems widely reported with medium and large scale fleet combat and will need at least 50 pilots, though if 200 or more showed up this would be even better, says CCP Tanis. Players interested in helping out should hop on the Singularity test server on Wednesday, January 27, at 17:00 UTC. Mass Testing participants should join the "MassTesting" channel in-game on the test server as well. All EVE pilots who want to get involved should see CCP Navigator's announcement for more info about tomorrow's fleet combat tests and the discussion in a related forum thread.

MassivelyMass Testing in EVE, Wednesday, to determine source of lag in fleet battles originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugsccpccp-gamesccp-navigatordominioneveeve-onlinefleet-combatgame-mechanicslagmass-testingserverssingularitytest-serverTue, 26 Jan 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online Sovereignty playtest to be held on Friday, Oct 30]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/eve-online-sovereignty-playtest-to-be-held-on-friday-oct-30/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/eve-online-sovereignty-playtest-to-be-held-on-friday-oct-30/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/eve-online-sovereignty-playtest-to-be-held-on-friday-oct-30/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


CCP Games is holding a play test of the new Sovereignty system in EVE Online on Friday, October 30th at 17:00 GMT/UTC on the Singularity test server. The devs are looking for players to jump in and help them fine tune Sovereignty for the Dominion expansion release, which is very much focused on this particular game mechanic. Interested parties are encouraged to show up early, as the devs want to give players a short demo of the new Sovereignty system beforehand. Also, they'll need to divide players into two teams, Red vs. Blue. EVE Quality Assurance dev CCP Tanis writes, "We will be testing several aspects of the new Sovereignty system, think of this kind of like a 'king of the hill' game in EVE."

EVE players interested in helping out (and getting a feel for how the new system will work) should read through the info the devs have listed in the playtest announcement. The developers have stated the testing event will take two or three hours to complete. (As an aside, they're putting the Sovereignty game mechanics through its paces on Mischief Night... what could go wrong?)

MassivelyEVE Online Sovereignty playtest to be held on Friday, Oct 30 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesccp-tanisdominioneveeve-onlineexpansionsgame-mechanicsplaytestsci-fisingularitysovereigntytest-serverThu, 29 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE's planetary graphics kicked up yet another notch for Dominion expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/eves-planetary-graphics-kicked-up-yet-another-notch-for-dominio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/eves-planetary-graphics-kicked-up-yet-another-notch-for-dominio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/eves-planetary-graphics-kicked-up-yet-another-notch-for-dominio/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We pointed out last month that EVE Online will get a new look to its planets this December, when the Dominion expansion launches. There's now more footage of the improved planetary graphics which is even better than what we saw in September, with a closer look at the swirling clouds, continents, and oceans, as well as light and shadows on the horizon. The footage is courtesy once again of EVE Online player Flamewave -- who may just live on the Singularity test server.

We've got a video embed of Flamewave's footage of the new planetary graphics as seen on the test server, so stick with us after the jump for a stunning look at New Eden as it will appear in Dominion.

Continue reading EVE's planetary graphics kicked up yet another notch for Dominion expansion

MassivelyEVE's planetary graphics kicked up yet another notch for Dominion expansion originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescloudsdominioneveeve-onlineexpansionsflamewavegraphicsnew-edenplanetssci-fisingularitytest-servervideoThu, 29 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New starry backgrounds in EVE Online spotted]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/new-starry-backgrounds-in-eve-online-spotted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/new-starry-backgrounds-in-eve-online-spotted/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/new-starry-backgrounds-in-eve-online-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , ,


CCP Games has been rolling out some major graphical improvements to EVE Online since the Trinity expansion launched, bringing with it a new graphics engine and an updated look to the game's setting through the premium client. The first iteration of graphics enhancements added a shiny new veneer to EVE's ships, but those changes weren't skin deep. The models themselves were recreated through months of effort by the game's art team, and the look of the ships is now much improved. Later space stations (both inside and out) and stargates were given a facelift with much greater detail and shadows. The Apocrypha expansion brought new effects for electronic warfare modules and weapons, but it also introduced something else to the aesthetics of EVE -- those gorgeous backdrops found in the uncharted expanses of wormhole space.

By comparison, some players feel that the nebula-laced appearance of mapped solar systems is starting to look dated. While EVE's nebulas aren't likely to change anytime soon, players on the Singularity test server are posting screenshots of starry backgrounds which have made an appearance this week. You can check out the shots taken by various players at Scrapheap Challenge and in these threads on the official EVE forums. Whether these new starry backdrops will make their way into the Dominion expansion release in December isn't certain, but combining this look with the swirling clouds on New Eden's planets would certainly kick EVE's aesthetics up another notch or two.

Continue reading New starry backgrounds in EVE Online spotted

MassivelyNew starry backgrounds in EVE Online spotted originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaccpccp-gamesdominioneveeve-onlineexpansionsgraphicsnew-edenpremium-graphicssingularityskyboxskydomestarstest-servertrinityThu, 15 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP Games seeking Dominion expansion play testers, Oct 15th onwards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/ccp-games-seeking-dominion-expansion-play-testers-oct-15th-onwa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/ccp-games-seeking-dominion-expansion-play-testers-oct-15th-onwa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/ccp-games-seeking-dominion-expansion-play-testers-oct-15th-onwa/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The Dominion expansion for EVE Online will bring some major changes to capital ships and sovereignty when it goes live on December 1st. As that release date approaches, the developers at CCP Games are seeking feedback from the EVE playerbase on some of the changes being made to the game. They aim to do this through large scale fleet battles on the Singularity test server with a minimum of 100 pilots, although hundreds more would be preferable. The tests will first focus on open combat between large fleets and later switch focus to player-owned starbase (POS) sieges. There are three play tests (tentatively) scheduled, with more to be announced:

  • Thursday, October 15, @ 17:00 GMT
  • Friday, October 16, @ 18:00 GMT (this is specifically a Sovereignty test)
  • Thursday, October 29, @ 17:00 GMT
Read the full post from EVE Quality Assurance dev CCP Tanis for more info on the tests and how players can connect to the Singularity test server. Players are encouraged to bring out their capital ships and unleash plenty of drones during these mass-tests of Dominion.

MassivelyCCP Games seeking Dominion expansion play testers, Oct 15th onwards originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesccp-tanisdominioneveeve-onlineexpansionsgame-mechanicsplayer-owned-starbasepossci-fisingularitysovereigntytest-serverMon, 12 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: The road ahead for 0.0 alliances, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/20/eve-evolved-the-road-ahead-for-0-0-alliances-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/20/eve-evolved-the-road-ahead-for-0-0-alliances-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/20/eve-evolved-the-road-ahead-for-0-0-alliances-part-2/#commentsContinue reading EVE Evolved: The road ahead for 0.0 alliances, part 2

MassivelyEVE Evolved: The road ahead for 0.0 alliances, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0.0ccpccp-gameseveeve-onlineexpansionfeedbackinfrastructurepatchsingularitysovereigntytestingwarSun, 20 Sep 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Can it be? New in game web browser arriving for EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/can-it-be-new-in-game-web-browser-arriving-for-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/can-it-be-new-in-game-web-browser-arriving-for-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/can-it-be-new-in-game-web-browser-arriving-for-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The developers at CCP Games just dropped some good news about the new in-game web browser (IGB) for EVE Online they've been working on, codenamed "Moondoggie", one that will deliver a "tenfold performance boost" over what exists today. We've checked CNN and BBC, and even Fox News, but hell is not freezing over... pigs are not in flight. The long-awaited new browser is on the way.

EVE Online players have been screaming about wanting a revamped in-game browser since well before Massively was even born, particularly as so many useful third-party sites function as in-game utilities for players to use without the need to alt-tab out. Of course, despite the frustrations players have felt with the IGB, delivering a better one is no simple matter. CCP Games has periodically stated that it's something they're looking into or working on, but today's dev blog written by CCP Pleognost, "The Second Coming of Moondoggie", confirms the details of the project. And that it's close to being ready.

Continue reading Can it be? New in game web browser arriving for EVE Online

MassivelyCan it be? New in game web browser arriving for EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccp-gamesccp-pleognostcosmosdev-blogdev-blogseveeve-onlineforumsigbin-game-browsermoondoggienew-featuressci-fisingularitysocial-networksocial-networkingtest-serverthird-party-applicationsweb-applicationsFri, 14 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mushrooms, planets and Klingons among newest STO screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/08/mushrooms-planets-and-klingons-among-newest-sto-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/08/mushrooms-planets-and-klingons-among-newest-sto-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/08/mushrooms-planets-and-klingons-among-newest-sto-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Today brings three new screenshots from Cryptic's upcoming Star Trek Online. While these crazy space mushroom trees in the ground shot gave us overwhelming "heebie-jeebies" they're beginning to grow on us at a startling rate -- they're almost majestic. The same could be said for this familiar Klingon Empire starship, which appears to be a variant on the Bird of Prey. But don't quote us on that, as our Trek-fu will never be as strong as the fan collective's.

This new planet with ring shot is quite possibly the most impressive yet. If the game's visuals continue to increase at this rate until launch, we'll have a built-in incentive for exploration. And while we're certainly expecting some in-game rewards, the sheer beauty of that shot makes us wonder about black holes, quasars, red giants, nebulae and all sorts of wonderful celestial bodies.

Hey Cryptic, think you can get a naked singularity or two in the game? We'd be eternally awestruck if you could pull it off.

Gallery: Star Trek Online Gallery

MassivelyMushrooms, planets and Klingons among newest STO screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribird-of-preycrypticcryptic-studiosklingonmushroomsnaked-singularityplanetscreenshotssingularitystar-trekstar-trek-onlinestoWed, 08 Apr 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Apocrypha expansion hands-on: The Sleepers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/massivelys-apocrypha-expansion-hands-on-the-sleepers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/massivelys-apocrypha-expansion-hands-on-the-sleepers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/massivelys-apocrypha-expansion-hands-on-the-sleepers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


The Sleepers

The inhabitants of these uncharted solar systems may take offense to your encroachment upon their territory, however. The Sleepers, an ancient race of NPCs known for their mastery of virtual reality and cryogenics, will provide the greatest PvE challenges players have ever faced in EVE Online through their guardian drones. Their AI is far beyond what players are used to going up against in PvE. The Sleepers will have varying levels of strength and adaptation to player threats. They do seem to have a particular hatred for their creators at CCP, given their ultra-violent response to Ward's arrival at a structure the Sleeper drones constructed in space. They move in on him, dishing out *all* damage types: beams sizzle for EM and Thermal damage; warheads obliterate for Kinetic and Explosive damage. Fortunately Ward's Proteus is set up to deal with this ("I'm going to put on a GM shield extender, or when we go through there I'm going to get wasted!") making his ship virtually impossible to kill, letting us witness the Sleeper offensive in safety.

Continue reading Massively's Apocrypha expansion hands-on: The Sleepers

MassivelyMassively's Apocrypha expansion hands-on: The Sleepers originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiapocryphaartificial-intelligencebackstoryccp-gameseve-onlineexpansionsloremassively-hands-onmassively-interviewsnoah-wardracessci-fisingularitysleepersthe-sleeperstony-gonzalesFri, 06 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online extending reach into Russia and Japan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/eve-online-extending-reach-into-russia-and-japan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/eve-online-extending-reach-into-russia-and-japan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/eve-online-extending-reach-into-russia-and-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The sci-fi massively multiplayer online title EVE Online is very much a game of galactic conquest. In that spirit of world domination, CCP Games has been working on establishing the title's presence in both Russia and Japan. EVE developer CCP Caedmon is part of the company's localization team, and has written a dev blog titled "Machine Translation's Bad, M'kay?", dealing with CCP's efforts to reach out to Russian and Japanese gamers.

Both Japanese and Russian localizations of the EVE client are now up on the Singularity test server. By all indications, the Russian client's localization is further along, as CCP Games opened up the client for public testing in 2008. However, they're interested in pushing ahead with Japanese localization as well. CCP Caedmon writes, "We know there is a highly dedicated community of Japanese players out there who have been with EVE since the early days and we are excited to hear your feedback."

For more on the status of EVE Online as it applies to other markets, see CCP Caedmon's "Machine Translation's Bad, M'kay?".

MassivelyEVE Online extending reach into Russia and Japan originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccp-caedmonccp-gamesdev-blogeveeve-onlinejapanjapaneselanguageslocalizationrussiarussiansci-fisingularitytest-servertranslationTue, 03 Mar 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: My only problem with Free Realms, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/28/the-digital-continuum-my-only-problem-with-free-realms-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/28/the-digital-continuum-my-only-problem-with-free-realms-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/28/the-digital-continuum-my-only-problem-with-free-realms-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: My only problem with Free Realms, part 2

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: My only problem with Free Realms, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashautolycusbaconbruce-campbellbruce-leebruce-willisfree-realmshairysingularitysoesonysony-online-entertainmentthe-digital-continuumSat, 28 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video shows EVE Online's Sleeper NPC race in action]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/22/video-shows-eve-onlines-sleeper-npc-race-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/22/video-shows-eve-onlines-sleeper-npc-race-in-action/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/22/video-shows-eve-onlines-sleeper-npc-race-in-action/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


The ancient NPC race in EVE Online known as the Sleepers will soon come into conflict with EVE's capsuleers in the Apocrypha expansion, only a few weeks from now. Explorers willing to discover wormholes and take the risk of engaging the Sleepers within will be able to obtain some of their technology, provided they manage to survive the encounter. This could bring wealth by selling the tech outright, or reverse engineering it to create EVE's strategic "Tech III" cruisers -- modular ship designs based in part off of Sleeper technology.

CCP Games has said that the Sleepers will be unlike any NPC type that pilots in the game have ever faced, and that was no exaggeration. Their AI makes fighting these particular NPCs more like fighting other players. That is to say, they react to immediate threats and change their tactics to counter what's thrown at them, to some degree. The video embedded below (captured on the Singularity test server) shows what the Sleepers are capable of against a mixed fleet of players -- with capital ships no less -- that had great difficulty withstanding the ancients.

Check out the raw power of the Sleepers in fullscreen HD, with their sizzling blue beams and warheads absolutely melting battleships and any other threat that demands their attention:

Continue reading Video shows EVE Online's Sleeper NPC race in action

MassivelyVideo shows EVE Online's Sleeper NPC race in action originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Feb 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaccp-gameseveeve-onlineexpansionsgod-is-an-astronautnpcnpcspreviewspvepvpracessci-fisingularitysleepersstrategic-cruiserstech-3tech-iiitest-servervideoSun, 22 Feb 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE dev blog explains new ship fitting screen, saveable configurations]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/15/eve-dev-blog-explains-new-ship-fitting-screen-saveable-configur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/15/eve-dev-blog-explains-new-ship-fitting-screen-saveable-configur/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/15/eve-dev-blog-explains-new-ship-fitting-screen-saveable-configur/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Among the changes that will come to EVE Online with the March Apocrypha expansion is the user interface for fitting ships, and this is the topic of the latest dev blog from CCP Fendahl. Critics of the game's user interface might be surprised to learn that there is a team that focuses solely on UI, and it seems they've been quite busy with this radical layout change. Ship fitting in Apocrypha will be focused on an iPod-like ring where you array your modules and rigs, as well as subsystems for Tech III ships, while viewing your ship (and how it changes) in the center. This large fitting reticle is flanked by collapsible side panels which are used for item selection and displaying ship stats.

Browsing the hundreds (in some cases thousands) of items in the various division hangars in a given station should be easier, with collapsible sections in the left side item panel. The stats panel to the right actually provides more info about your ship setup than before, by mousing over and bringing up a pop-up box. CCP Fendahl addresses the fact that this is more complex than the previous system: "While this increases the barrier to entry when learning how to fit a ship for the first time, we also think that the fitting screen is a critically important interface that needs to show all the relevant numbers."

Continue reading EVE dev blog explains new ship fitting screen, saveable configurations

MassivelyEVE dev blog explains new ship fitting screen, saveable configurations originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaccpccp-fendahlccp-gamesdev-blogeveeve-onlineexpansionsfittingfitting-screengame-mechanicsnew-featuressci-fiscrumship-fittingsingularityt3tech-3test-serveruiuser-interfaceSun, 15 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online developer explains major new feature: Tech III]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/eve-online-developer-explains-major-new-feature-tech-iii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/eve-online-developer-explains-major-new-feature-tech-iii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/12/eve-online-developer-explains-major-new-feature-tech-iii/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The dev blog many EVE Online players have been waiting for was published today. Tech III ships have been the subject of a great deal of excitement and no small amount of trepidation from the game's players. EVE developer CCP Nozh introduces the playerbase to "the dark delights of Tech 3 ships" in his dev blog "Strategic Cruisers: A New Breed." This moniker "Strategic Cruisers" is a fitting one, as they certainly are a new breed of ship, and one that requires some explanation.

Nozh writes, "The elation of happening upon a unique fit, some fresh and clever setup, has always been a very appealing aspect of EVE. One of our primary goals for the Tech 3 ships was to bring this customization to a whole new level. The new ships are a fundamental departure from the tried and tested, offering such unparalleled customization that discussing them on the same terms as previous ships belies their true extent -- we're talking full-fledged, independent systems within the system. A little bit scary, really."

Continue reading EVE Online developer explains major new feature: Tech III

MassivelyEVE Online developer explains major new feature: Tech III originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphabreakingccpccp-gamesccp-nozhcruiserscustomizationdefensivedev-blogelectronicengineeringeveeve-onlineexpansionslokinew-featuresoffensivepropulsionsci-fisingularitystrategic-cruiserssubsystemstech-3tech-iiitest-serverThu, 12 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online's Tech III ships hit Singularity test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/eve-onlines-tech-iii-ships-hit-singularity-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/eve-onlines-tech-iii-ships-hit-singularity-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/eve-onlines-tech-iii-ships-hit-singularity-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


When CCP Games first announced the new line of ships coming to EVE Online with the Apocrypha expansion, a modular design called Tech III, player opinions were rather divided. Some view the flexibility to create thousands of potential ship configurations as a positive thing for EVE. Still, others remain standoffish, citing either the potential for over-complexity or "Lego in space."

Well now it's time for speculation to fizzle out, and for the players to see what Tech III is all about firsthand. An announcement today from EVE dev CCP Nozh let the players know that Tech III can be experimented with on the Singularity test server.

Continue reading EVE Online's Tech III ships hit Singularity test server

MassivelyEVE Online's Tech III ships hit Singularity test server originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Feb 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphabreakingccpccp-gamesccp-nozhcomplexitydevdevelopereveeve-onlineexpansionsgame-mechanicslegosci-fisingularitytech-3tech-iiitest-serverFri, 06 Feb 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Stunning EVE machinima depicts struggle between New Eden's factions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/stunning-eve-machinima-depicts-struggle-between-new-edens-facti/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/stunning-eve-machinima-depicts-struggle-between-new-edens-facti/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/stunning-eve-machinima-depicts-struggle-between-new-edens-facti/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The sci-fi setting of EVE Online provides a great amount of material for players interested in creating machinima. But it's not everyday that a short film as good as Clear Skies or Havoc comes along. Then again, it's also not every day that something created by a player draws accolades from the game's creators -- but that's exactly the case with the work of EVE player Kyoko Sakoda, in "War Has Come" -- which beautifully captures the game, set to a cover of Bob Dylan's "All Along the Watchtower."

Sakoda writes, "This is one of my first thematic works. I know the Bear McCreary version of the song may sound like it is out of place for a few hardcore sci-fi fans, but I could not justify using any other cover. Enjoy, and write feedback if you wish. I'm always looking to improve my storytelling, direction, and editing and compositing skills."

We've got "War Has Come" embedded for you below the cut, and it's well worth a look. We just wish Dylan's "All Along the Watchtower" was a longer song...

Continue reading Stunning EVE machinima depicts struggle between New Eden's factions

MassivelyStunning EVE machinima depicts struggle between New Eden's factions originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-along-the-watchtowerclear-skieseveeve-onlinefactional-warfarehavockyoko-sakodamachinimaoutlawspiracypiratespvpracessci-fisingularityveronevetoveto-corpvideowar-has-comeyoutubeWed, 28 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online kicks off Mac open beta for high-res graphics engine]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/eve-online-kicks-off-mac-open-beta-for-high-res-graphics-engine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/eve-online-kicks-off-mac-open-beta-for-high-res-graphics-engine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/eve-online-kicks-off-mac-open-beta-for-high-res-graphics-engine/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The next EVE Online expansion, called Apocrypha, will launch on March 10 and promises to bring a long-missing feature to the Mac client: high res graphics. The Trinity graphics engine (aka Premium graphics) has been available to players using the Windows client since December of 2007. As of today, all active accounts using the Mac client can opt to download a second enhanced client to try out EVE's Premium graphic content on the Singularity test server.

EVE's Community Manager CCP Wrangler says, "This is the culmination of over a year of effort on the part of development teams at both CCP Games and Transgaming and we are extremely happy to see EVE running in all its splendor on the Mac OS." That splendor, however, may not be coming for some EVE players running older Mac hardware.

Continue reading EVE Online kicks off Mac open beta for high-res graphics engine

MassivelyEVE Online kicks off Mac open beta for high-res graphics engine originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaatariccpccp-gamesccp-wranglerclassiceveeve-onlineexpansionsgraphicsgraphics-enginemacmac-clientopen-betapremium-graphicssingularitytest-servertrinityTue, 13 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE's call to arms: Thursday fleet battles on test server to help combat lag]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/eves-call-to-arms-thursday-fleet-battles-on-test-server-to-hel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/eves-call-to-arms-thursday-fleet-battles-on-test-server-to-hel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/eves-call-to-arms-thursday-fleet-battles-on-test-server-to-hel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


EVE Online's latest expansion Quantum Rise brought some new features for the industry crowd, and a few enhancements aimed at PvP pilots as well. But some of the broad changes they've made to the game mechanics have triggered lag, and lots of it, which CCP Games is hoping to combat with the help of the players themselves. CCP Tanis says, "We take this issue very seriously and as a result, our engineering team has been in high-gear working on fixing the problem and we think we are close, but we need your help."

The help CCP Games is looking for requires relatively little from players, aside from logging into the Singularity test server and entering the fray, blasting each other apart in battleships. The Wednesday tests were already underway when we got word of this, but they're looking to get a large group of pilots (200 or more) for the Thursday fleet engagements on Singularity. The test will take place on Thursday at 11:00 GMT, and another is tentatively slated for 15:00, dependent upon what CCP learns from the previous fights. CCP Tanis lays out how players can get involved:

Continue reading EVE's call to arms: Thursday fleet battles on test server to help combat lag

MassivelyEVE's call to arms: Thursday fleet battles on test server to help combat lag originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battleshipbreakingbugsccpccp-gamesccp-tanisdroneseveeve-onlineexpansionsforumsgame-mechanicslagpatchpatchespvpquantum-risesci-fisingularitytest-servertranquilityweapon-groupingWed, 19 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Substantial changes to industrial ships in EVE's Quantum Rise]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/substantial-changes-to-industrial-ships-in-eves-quantum-rise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/substantial-changes-to-industrial-ships-in-eves-quantum-rise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/substantial-changes-to-industrial-ships-in-eves-quantum-rise/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

New additions to EVE Online through the Quantum Rise expansion are on the way, some of which are already on the Singularity test server. CCP Chronotis followed up his announcement of the Orca by outlining some big changes to ships that are some of the mainstays of industry in EVE. "Much has changed in EVE since many of the hauler of mining class ships were introduced. With Quantum Rise we felt the time was right to review these ships and make changes where necessary to refocus their roles and ensure they can still perform in the age of New Eden's Great War," he said.

The changes outlined aren't finalized, and will go through testing on Singularity before any of this goes live. Chronotis addressed how CCP Games would like to change three categories of ships: blockade runners, deep space transports, and mining vessels.

Continue reading Substantial changes to industrial ships in EVE's Quantum Rise

MassivelySubstantial changes to industrial ships in EVE's Quantum Rise originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-opsblockade-runnersccpccp-chronotisccp-gamescraftingdeep-space-transportseveeve-onlineexpansionsforumsgame-mechanicsindustrial-shipsindustryminingmining-shipsmining-vesselsorcapvequantum-riserorqualsci-fisingularitytest-serverWed, 29 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE's new Weapon Grouping feature explained]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/eves-new-weapon-grouping-feature-explained/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/eves-new-weapon-grouping-feature-explained/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/eves-new-weapon-grouping-feature-explained/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Weapon Grouping is one of the new features coming to EVE Online, via the multi-staged release of the Quantum Rise expansion. Players spotted and have been giving updates on what they've seen on the Singularity test server, but now EVE dev CCP Ytterbium has posted a dev blog that explains this new feature in great detail, right down to screengrabs of Weapon Grouping in action.

If you've been waiting to hear more about this, you'll want to check out CCP Ytterbium's dev blog, 'Weapon Grouping', for his visual explanation of how you'll soon be able to consolidate your weapons into a single icon, and reload all of them at once. He also lays out the scenarios when you wouldn't want to take advantage of this feature, like when attacking multiple targets (although there's a solution to that built into the feature). Additionally, he's written a lengthy FAQ that should help dispel some of the confusion surrounding Weapon Grouping.

MassivelyEVE's new Weapon Grouping feature explained originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesccp-ytterbiumdevdev-blogeveeve-onlineexpansionsfaqgame-mechanicsnew-featurespvpquantum-risesci-fisingularitytest-serverweapon-groupingThu, 23 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online API improvements to track the Empyrean Age]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/eve-online-api-improvements-to-track-the-empyrean-age/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/eve-online-api-improvements-to-track-the-empyrean-age/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/eve-online-api-improvements-to-track-the-empyrean-age/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


EVEMon, EVE Fitting Tool, and other essential programs that benefit from the EVE API platform were offline yesterday while EVE Online's Tranquility server transited over to the new Empyrean Age 1.0.1 build. With more pilots than ever participating in Empyrean Age's factional warfare, CCP has also enhanced the EVE API so players have more functionality to help track and report on the state of the war.

The factional warfare data is only calculated on the Tranquility server once a day during downtime, but will cache every hour to make sure that new data is available in the API. Official API documentation isn't included for the new stat-tracking improvements but the regular documentation is online. CCP is also planning long term development and support for the API including a test server with reduced cache times. The EVE Online developers have given players quite the toolbox to work with, and some tools are already benefiting from these changes like EVEAI.Live.

The full list of API improvements and changes are listed after the click through below.

Continue reading EVE Online API improvements to track the Empyrean Age

MassivelyEVE Online API improvements to track the Empyrean Age originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apiccpccp-gamesdata-analysisempyrean-ageeveeve-apieve-fitting-tooleve-onlineevelifeevemonfactional-warfarepvpsingularitystat-trackingstatstranquilityWed, 02 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online blazes into The Empyrean Age]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/eve-online-blazes-into-the-empyrean-age/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/eve-online-blazes-into-the-empyrean-age/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/eve-online-blazes-into-the-empyrean-age/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Massively has been beating the war drums as EVE Online enters a new era in PvP: The Empyrean Age expansion. This time of factional warfare will sweep players of all four races in New Eden into a whirl of conflict never seen before in the game. PvP will no longer be limited to low sec ganks, 0.0 alliance warfare, or Empire war decs. For the first time, it will be integrated with the storyline on a massive scale. And all the while, embedded reporters loyal to their respective factions will be conveying news and swaying the masses of New Eden to their cause. With all of this build-up to the expansion's release, there's a great deal of information to absorb. So we've written about what exactly The Empyrean Age is, and what it is not. Our columnists at Massively have written on the background of the conflict between EVE's races, and torn through some of the complexities of EVE's factional warfare for you as well.

Although factional warfare has been tested extensively, these radical changes to the universe of EVE Online require a hefty amount of downtime to deploy. But after the full day's downtime, the shardless galaxy of New Eden will be set ablaze at 02:00 GMT on June 11. While you're rocking back and forth in your chair waiting for the server reboot, check out Massively's ramped up coverage of the sci-fi MMO and get yourself into the mood for tearing into the hulls of your rival faction. We suspect that a number of EVE vets are going through booster-level withdrawal symptoms today; so for the truly hardcore, CCP posted the full patch notes in all its 18-page glory on their provisional 'downtime site'. And of course, there's always time to watch Clear Skies a few more times while you wait for New Eden to ignite once again.

Gallery: The Empyrean Age of EVE Online

MassivelyEVE Online blazes into The Empyrean Age originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliancebreakingccpccp-gamesdevdev-blogempyrean-ageeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionfactionfactional-warfarejitarankranksrogue-signalshardsingularitytranquilityTue, 10 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online: play test factional warfare, June 4-6]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/eve-online-play-test-factional-warfare-june-4-6/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/eve-online-play-test-factional-warfare-june-4-6/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/eve-online-play-test-factional-warfare-june-4-6/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


CCP Games announced a new series of factional warfare playtests for EVE Online's imminent Empyrean Age expansion, and are seeking help from all available pilots in New Eden. EVE dev CCP Tanis stated that the first release candidate for the Empyrean Age is being put on the Singularity test server, and that CCP is now focusing its attention on the gameplay mechanics of the long-anticipated factional warfare system.

The playtest will focus on the offense and defense of capture points and the conquering of solar systems. Players will be divided into either Caldari or Gallente factions; each faction will have an offensive and defensive team. The ultimate goal is to capture as many systems as possible while preventing the opposing faction from gaining any territorial control. CCP developers and ISD will be on hand to answer questions and guide players.

When: June 4 to 6 (Wed., Thurs., Fri.) from 11:00 to 14:00 EVE time (GMT).
Where: Singularity test server
Why: "We really cannot stress how important your feedback is to us."
Another Why: Each day the players on the winning side will be given a stock of officer modules !! ... *dramatic pause*... on the test server only. (Sorry.) Also the player who submits the best bug report will be given maxed out skills on the test server.
How: Join the in-game channel "Faction Testing" for instructions.

CCP Tanis also reminds players that the latest Singularity test server patch is required to participate in the playtest. The patch should ONLY be applied to a second copy of the EVE client, and NOT the main client used for everyday play on the Tranquility server. That is, unless you'd prefer to call the test server "home" from now on. Further details can be found in the official announcement; EVE Online account login is required to access this information.

MassivelyEVE Online: play test factional warfare, June 4-6 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcaldaricapturecapture-pointcapture-pointsccpccp-gamesdevdev-blogdeveloperempyrean-ageeveeve-onlineeventexpansionexpansionsfactionfactional-warfarefeedbackgallentegame-mastergame-mechanicsgameplaygmgoalisdnew-edenpatchsci-fisingularitysisiterritorial-controlterritorytesttest-servertranquilityMon, 02 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[June 10th marks the dawn of EVE's Empyrean Age]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/june-10th-marks-the-dawn-of-eves-empyrean-age/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/june-10th-marks-the-dawn-of-eves-empyrean-age/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/june-10th-marks-the-dawn-of-eves-empyrean-age/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


CCP announced today that EVE Online's Empyrean Age expansion will go live on the 10th of June. The expansion will be free for all EVE players. Features added include factional warfare with a ranking system, new agents, a new region of space, details on hidden deadspace complexes, and new system occupancy rules.

EVE's in-game news sources have been filled with reports of one violent diplomatic disaster after another, setting the stage for the all out war to come. In addition to those reports, CCP commissioned writer Tony Gonzales to write a novel (also titled Empyrean Age) that reveals in detail the back-story of the conflict.

Empyrean Age is already live on EVE's test server, Singularity. User reactions have been positive so far, and we suspect this update will offer plenty of satisfactory content to tide users over until the Ambulation update downloads later this year.

MassivelyJune 10th marks the dawn of EVE's Empyrean Age originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 May 2008 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agentsccpempyrean-ageeveeve-onlineexpansionfactional-warfarejunelaunchnovelrankssingularitytony-gonzalesWed, 28 May 2008 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Empyrean Age blasts onto Singularity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/the-empyrean-age-blasts-onto-singularity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/the-empyrean-age-blasts-onto-singularity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/the-empyrean-age-blasts-onto-singularity/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Fighting for your empire of choice? Of course. Complexes full of militia fighters hacking away away at each other? That is there too. A few bugs that result in the beloved EVE Online police, Concord, blasting you for fighting the good fight in high-sec? Well, it just would not be a war without Concord and a test without flaws! The good, the bad, and the ugly parts of factional warfare in the EVE Online expansion Empyrean Age are at every pilot's fingertips. The details are conveyed in a blog, hosted on Nuyan's Hangout, that presents an in depth look at the concepts currently floating around the test server.

Factional warfare is not going to be a big ship destroys little ship game of domination. Newer players are encouraged to participate since some zones restrict ship class and eliminate the chance for a Titan to destroy your little frigate. In these zones, players attack and defend systems in an attempt to control outposts for a certain amount of time. This factional warfare feature sounds similar to the timed capture methods World of Warcraft employs. Nuyan is quick to point out that the design does have a slight hint of tauren and orc, but that EVE maintains a unique flavor that separates it from the open PvP zones in World of Warcraft. We remain hopeful that EVE will retain it's unique style and eagerly await this long awaited expansion to go live.

[via Crazy Kinux]

MassivelyThe Empyrean Age blasts onto Singularity originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 May 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concordcrazy-kinuxempyrean-ageeveeve-expansioneve-onlinenuyannuyans-hangoutpvpsingularityworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 28 May 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Singularity's Empyrean Age begins Saturday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/singularitys-empyrean-age-begins-saturday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/singularitys-empyrean-age-begins-saturday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/singularitys-empyrean-age-begins-saturday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

CCP will begin testing EVE Online's recently announced Emyprean Age expansion on the Singularity test server beginning this Saturday, the 17th of May. To celebrate the event, the dev team is hosting an event at 19:00 GMT. Everyone is invited to test the new features -- particularly Factional Warfare -- with the dev team.

There will be awards for achievements like "most kills" and "most bizarre bug found" once the dust has cleared. If you're an EVE subscriber, read the announcement for more details. If you want to jump right in, don't forget to download the patch and apply it to your client (not the installation with which you play on Tranquility, though!). Once you're all patched up and ready to go, log in on Saturday and join the chat channel "Faction Testing."

How often do you get the chance to blast the entire EVE dev team out of the skies? Sounds like fun.

MassivelySingularity's Empyrean Age begins Saturday originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsccpdevsemyprean-ageeveeve-onlineexpansionfaction-warfarefactional-warfarefactionspatchpvpsingularitytestThu, 15 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP and EVE need help testing the new networking layer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/ccp-and-eve-need-help-testing-the-new-networking-layer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/ccp-and-eve-need-help-testing-the-new-networking-layer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/ccp-and-eve-need-help-testing-the-new-networking-layer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When flying through space in EVE Online, without a care in the world, things can often go wrong rather quickly. For example, when jumping through a stargate on the way home from a successful trading expedition, the game decides to freeze. The stargate then disappears, the UI becomes completely useless, and the only thing on the screen are twinkling stars. What happened here? A massive battle between alliances just took place and the node decided to choke. This means lag, waiting, re-logging, and the never ending cycle of keyboard smashing. Oh what a wonderful world it would be if this did not happen.

Well, with the next Trinity patch, a new networking layer that may ease the suffering of cosmic travelers is being tested. EVE and CCP are requesting some extra players, about 200 or so, to help test the networking layer on singularity. You only need to log in between 1830 GMT and 2100 GMT on the 29th of April to participate in the test. Sound easy? Well it is just that simple. CCP will have a channel devoted to test results and updates throughout the testing period. Hopefully, if successful, we can all avoid the lag when corporations decide to crush one another or when you make that evil trip into Jita. In order to make sure your ship does not implode when you try to log in, be sure to check out the singularity installation and FAQ page to be ready to test and make the universe a better place.

MassivelyCCP and EVE need help testing the new networking layer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Apr 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpeveeve-onlineeve-trinitysingularitytestingtrinityMon, 28 Apr 2008 10:00:00 EST