Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Tattered Notebook: It's the little things that count in EQII updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/tattered-notebook-its-the-little-things-that-count-in-eqii-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/tattered-notebook-its-the-little-things-that-count-in-eqii-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/tattered-notebook-its-the-little-things-that-count-in-eqii-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Tattered Notebook It's the little things that count a look at EQII updates
It's like they know me! You'd think with all the bag functionalities that SOE has introduced to EverQuest II this year that the devs have watched my livestreams and taken pity on me and my storage predicament. And it didn't stop with just one new addition; even after one set of sorting capabilities was released, another set came along. With all these new organizational tools, there is a chance even I might actually find something in my oft-overstuffed bags. (Clean bags, however, is another matter entirely and not likely to be resolved!)

Now bag sorting in and of itself really doesn't sound like a big deal, the kind complete with flashing lights and a ticker-tape parade. It's not. In fact, it's pretty much a little thing... well, except for micro-managers and packrats, of course. So why in heavens would I be spending time talking about piddly updates in EQII when such an expansive one recently released? Because getting the little things (and getting them with regularity) is big. The subject of minor updates warrants just as much attention as a named one like Scars of the Awakened, both for what the updates are and for what they portend. And those updates bode well for everyone.

Continue reading Tattered Notebook: It's the little things that count in EQII updates

MassivelyTattered Notebook: It's the little things that count in EQII updates originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>added-contentbag-sortingdecoratingdungeon-tweakseqeq-2eq-iieq-nexteq2eqiieqneverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nextf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhousing-itemslittle-things-mean-a-lotopinionskillssoesonysony-online-entertainmenttattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookupdatesSat, 11 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What abilities do you find the most fun to use?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/the-daily-grind-what-abilities-do-you-find-the-most-fun-to-use/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/the-daily-grind-what-abilities-do-you-find-the-most-fun-to-use/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/the-daily-grind-what-abilities-do-you-find-the-most-fun-to-use/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The downside is that I wind up never having any energy left because I'm too busy rolling around like an acrobat.
Hitting 51 on my Scoundrel in Star Wars: The Old Republic meant getting what is probably the greatest ability ever, the ability to quickly roll forward. I absolutely love any sort of quick movement ability like that, especially rolls -- anything that lets me dart around the battlefield without being directly tied to combat. Being able to do so in Guild Wars 2 was one of my favorite parts of the game as a whole.

We've all got certain abilities that we just like making use of in MMOs. Sometimes they're not really beneficial to our builds, and sometimes they're not even all that useful, but darn it they're just plain fun to trigger. So what abilities do you find the most fun to use? Silly cosmetic tricks? Certain impressive storms of particle effects? Or are you just fond of abilities that work well from a mechanical standpoint with no concern for silly elements?

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 abilities do you find the most fun to use? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesculturedaily-grindfun-toysgame-mechanicshumoropinionpowerssillinessskillstdgthe-daily-grindtoysTue, 07 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter gives players the freedom to buy skills]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/neverwinter-gives-players-the-freedom-to-buy-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/neverwinter-gives-players-the-freedom-to-buy-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/neverwinter-gives-players-the-freedom-to-buy-skills/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Neverwinter gives players the freedom to buy skills
Quoting beta feedback as a reason, Cryptic is changing Neverwinter's character progression to allow players to purchase new skills via power points. Previously, specific skills were handed out automatically upon hitting certain levels, but apparently choice was a big request of testers.

The new power points system, which will be available in the upcoming fourth beta weekend, allows for both skill unlocks and upgrades. There will be certain restrictions, such as keeping the third rank for all skills locked until level 30 and not giving players enough points to purchase everything by the time they hit the endgame.

The team says that this system will make the decision of feat choices more strategic, particularly in compensating for any power weakness.

MassivelyNeverwinter gives players the freedom to buy skills originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobetacharacter-progressioncrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpointpower-pointspower-systempweskillskillsWed, 10 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Openly mock gravity with Age of Wushu's flying skills]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/openly-mock-gravity-with-age-of-wushus-flying-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/openly-mock-gravity-with-age-of-wushus-flying-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/openly-mock-gravity-with-age-of-wushus-flying-skills/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

See? The Matrix Online didn't go anywhere.
The wuxia films that inspire many of Age of Wushu's mechanics have a fairly uniform attitude toward vertical mobility: screw gravity. Needless to say, the game takes that lesson to heart. A new article and video detailing the game's Flying skills makes it clear that players will not simply be encouraged to defy gravity but to go all-out and actively mock the idea that anything more than boredom keeps both feet planted on the ground.

Flying skills are treated like normal skills in the sense that players must locate skill tomes to unlock new abilities, but once unlocked these skills are only limited by the character's Stamina. As long as your character has Stamina you can feel free to run straight up walls, jump off with a series of spinning backflips, and then land from a great height without so much as a bruise. If you do run out, though... well, gravity responds poorly to mockery. Check out the video just past the cut to see what it looks like to spit in the face of downward velocity.

Continue reading Openly mock gravity with Age of Wushu's flying skills

MassivelyOpenly mock gravity with Age of Wushu's flying skills originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aerial-acrobaticsage-of-wulinage-of-wushuasiacharacter-skillschinachinesechinese-mmoflyingflying-skilsgpotatogvgjet-lijumpingkidnappingmartial-artsming-dynastymulti-jumpingpvpsandboxscrew-gravityskillssnail-gamessnail-games-usavideovideoswushuwuxiaWed, 20 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Neverwinter Rogue video emerges from the shadows]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/new-neverwinter-rogue-video-emerges-from-the-shadows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/new-neverwinter-rogue-video-emerges-from-the-shadows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/new-neverwinter-rogue-video-emerges-from-the-shadows/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

New video emerges from the shadows about Neverwinter's Trickster Rogue
If you haven't had the opportunity to play a Trickster Rogue in either of Neverwinter's beta weekends, you might not be familiar with the class's skills and strategies. It relies on more than just backstabbing and evading, and it employs effective strike combinations to make the most of duel-wielded daggers. In a recent post, Perfect World highlighted a few combinations to show players how to utilize the strengths of the Trickster Rogue. Looking for a hint? Use Bait and Switch while in stealth so that it refreshes, then finish with Lashing Blade, a move that does 50% more damage while stealthed.

Want to see these various moves and combinations in action? Then feast your eyes on the video montage after the break.

Continue reading New Neverwinter Rogue video emerges from the shadows

MassivelyNew Neverwinter Rogue video emerges from the shadows originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoclassescombinationscrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfree-to-playneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweskillstrailertrickster-RoguevideoTue, 19 Mar 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[State of Decay Q&A talks skills, traits, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/state-of-decay-qanda-talks-skills-traits-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/state-of-decay-qanda-talks-skills-traits-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/state-of-decay-qanda-talks-skills-traits-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Undead Labs mural
Undead Labs has posted the results of its latest State of Decay-focused Q&A session. The company parsed a bunch of the best community-generated queries and posted the answers in a mammoth forum thread that represents a great starting point if you're looking to learn more about the upcoming console zombie title.

Several of the questions involve the previously mentioned skill system, and there is also some info on traits and survivor characters. Most crucially, we learned that sexting is an actual skill in the game (as are Sudoku and Reality Show Trivia)," according to community guru Sanya Weathers. "It does nothing in a world where cell towers no longer function," she quipped.

MassivelyState of Decay Q&A talks skills, traits, and more originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsoleshorrorpost-apocalypticsanya-weathersskillsstate-of-decaystate-of-decay-skillsundead-labszombiesSat, 23 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The battle is joined: Starting new and fighting through Final Fantasy XIV's relaunch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-battle-is-joined-starting-new-and-fighting-through-final-fa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-battle-is-joined-starting-new-and-fighting-through-final-fa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/the-battle-is-joined-starting-new-and-fighting-through-final-fa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Have I mentioned I love Highlander women yet? Because it should be restated regularly.
I know a lot about Final Fantasy XIV. This is surprising to no one; there's a reason Joystiq sent me to the preview event, a reason I write a weekly column about the game, and a reason I still have the Final Fantasy XIV collector's edition box sitting in my office. The net result is that I have spent a lot of time playing the game.

As a result, I was more than a little nervous when sitting down to play the revamped version at the Final Fantasy XIV press event in San Francisco last week. Done incorrectly, playing the game could feel subtly wrong, like a stranger pretending to be your old friend. And even if I avoided that pitfall, the gameplay could feel inelegant or forced.

I'm happy to report that none of that is the case. Make no mistake -- the game is very different from its original incarnation, but it also sports enough familiar stuff that you aren't left wandering around baffled.

Continue reading The battle is joined: Starting new and fighting through Final Fantasy XIV's relaunch

MassivelyThe battle is joined: Starting new and fighting through Final Fantasy XIV's relaunch originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-realm-rebornbattle-flowbattle-mechanicscharacter-creationconsoleconsolescontentdynamic-eventsfantasyfatefeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-version-2.0final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivflowfull-active-time-eventsgame-mechanicshands-onhunting-loglogopinionpreviewpreviewsquest-structurequestsrelaunchskillssquaresquare-enixThu, 21 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online reveals new spells]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/allods-online-reveals-new-spells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/allods-online-reveals-new-spells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/allods-online-reveals-new-spells/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Allods Online reveals new spells
Allods Online is drawing ever-nearer to a new expansion, Lords of Destiny. We've already been shown some of the new zones for the expansion; now it's time to take a look at some of the new spells. Characters who have reached at least level 52 will be able to unlock two powerful skills, which will be useful both in monster battles and in facing off against enemy players.

Each class will have two new skills available. These skills require the consumption of dragon tears, which will be available for purchase from Servants of the Light or as rewards from daily tasks. Dragon tears come in different quality levels, which will affect the effectiveness of the skills they're used to power.

MassivelyAllods Online reveals new spells originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatolords-of-destinymail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesskillsWed, 13 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your favorite long-cooldown skill?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-long-cooldown-skill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-long-cooldown-skill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-long-cooldown-skill/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Daily Grind What's your favorite longcooldown skill
In Guild Wars 2, one of my favorite skills to use is the ability to unleash a cranky mechanical golem upon my foes. It only lasts for 40 seconds and has (I think) an 180-second cooldown, which means I don't get to use it as often as I'd like. However, it always makes me absurdly happy to pull it out, and I wonder if the long cooldown is one of the reasons I appreciate it so much.

It's pretty common for developers to balance powerful skills with a lengthy cooldown, leaving the choice up to the player as to when and where it's best to unleash hell. It's not uncommon to be in a dungeon run and have the leader instruct players to pop their cooldowns on difficult fights; sometimes that long-cooldown skill is what makes the difference between victory and defeat.

So what's your favorite long-cooldown skill? When do you tend to use it?

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 long-cooldown skill? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesabilityanetarenanetbuy-to-playcdcooldowndaily-grindfantasyguild-wars-2gw2long-cooldownncsoftopinionpop-cooldownskillskillsspellspellstdgthe-daily-grindWed, 23 Jan 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV's Armoury system, yesterday and tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xivs-armoury-system-yesterday-and-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xivs-armoury-system-yesterday-and-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/22/the-mog-log-final-fantasy-xivs-armoury-system-yesterday-and-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Final Fantasy XIV has always sold its class system on the idea that you use it more as an a la carte buffet. Abilities you learn in one class are useful in another class, and as a result, your Gladiator is a mix of several different abilities in a single package. The idea at launch was that mixing abilities and inherent mechanics would produce very different characters based on the needs of circumstance and your personal playstyle.

This is not what happened. Nor is it what happened following the large ability revamp, which actually wound up making cross-class skills less useful in many areas.

When the game relaunches, odds are good that the current system will be largely intact, at least at a conceptual level. (You have your class abilities and then a selection of abilities from other classes that you've learned, in other words.) And it's my hope that on this third pass through the system, the development team gets things just right. But let's take a look at the first two versions first.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV's Armoury system, yesterday and tomorrow

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Final Fantasy XIV's Armoury system, yesterday and tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesarmouryarmoury-systembalancecharacter-buildsclassclassesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsmechanicsmog-logopinionskillssquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-loguseful-abilitiesuseful-skillsSat, 22 Dec 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion 4.0 will bring an increased level cap and new skills]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/aion-4-0-will-bring-an-increased-level-cap-and-new-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/aion-4-0-will-bring-an-increased-level-cap-and-new-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/aion-4-0-will-bring-an-increased-level-cap-and-new-skills/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Aion 40 will bring an increased level cap and new skills
In case new classes and a new region weren't enough to whet your appetite, Aion's 4.0 update is raising the level cap and ushering in some new skills! The new level cap will be 65, up from 3.0's cap at 60.

What good is a level cap raise without some skills to populate the new progression? No good at all, of course. Gladiators, Rangers, Clerics, and Chanters will get shiny new survival skills. Spiritmasters, Sorcerers, Assassions, Templars, and Gladiators will get their hands on some powerful offensive skills. Finally, a new skill type is being introduced: Charged skills will have stronger effects based on how long they are charged, and it's up to the caster to decide how long to channel them. These skills will include "Induce Sleep" for Sorcerers, which will keep the target asleep longer based on the length of the charge; "Healing Splendour" for Clerics, which will heal members more based on charge duration; and "Lethal Strike," a Chanter skill that can be charged for greater damage.

MassivelyAion 4.0 will bring an increased level cap and new skills originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.0aionAion-4.0ascensionclassclassesf2pfantasyfree-to-playncsoftskillskillstruly-freeupdate-4.0Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Guild Wars 2 disciplines and WvWvW]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/choose-my-adventure-gw2-disciplines-and-wvwvw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/choose-my-adventure-gw2-disciplines-and-wvwvw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/choose-my-adventure-gw2-disciplines-and-wvwvw/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Choose My Adventure Guild Wars 2 disciplines and WvWvW
This week in our Guild Wars 2 edition of Choose My Adventure, level 26 Mesmer Pippy Peat donned his two-handed staff (with his two-handed greatsword as backup) and headed for the brutally fun battlegrounds in world vs. world vs. world. I tried my hand at utilizing my new skills, Radiation Field and Feedback, with marginal success. Some tasty burgers to up my Radiation Field's condition duration helped, though.

I had a blast with tailoring but maybe a little more with cooking. I discovered some interesting ways to go about crafting to level up faster. I lingered in Brisban Wildlands before moving on to WvWvW because I had to catch some more video and screenshots to add to the gallery and wanted to make a snazzy new video.

Read on for more eye-popping screenshots, a recounting of my trials, and another round of voting.

Gallery: CMA: Guild Wars 2

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Guild Wars 2 disciplines and WvWvW

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Guild Wars 2 disciplines and WvWvW originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetchefchoose-my-adventurecmacookingcraftcraftingdisciplinesfantasyfeaturedguild-wars-2gw2hands-onjeremy-strattonncsoftopinionpollpollsprofessionsreaders-choiceskillstailortailoringtraitsvotevotingWed, 14 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE Live 2012: Dragon's Prophet invigorates sandbox hopes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/soe-live-2012-dragons-prophet-invigorates-sandbox-hopes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/soe-live-2012-dragons-prophet-invigorates-sandbox-hopes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/soe-live-2012-dragons-prophet-invigorates-sandbox-hopes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

SOE Live 2012 Dragon's Prophet invigorates sandbox hopes
While I can't exactly say that the best report was saved for last (there was so much awesome at SOE Live 2012), I will say the Dragon's Prophet announcement was the most unexpected exciting news of the weekend. A new sandbox game, with dragons!

I'll admit -- I should have seen the writing on the breakfast table. When I sat down for the meal that first day, my table-mate John Smedley, CEO of Sony Online Entertainment, mentioned that the others seated with us were making a dragon game. He then introduced them as developers of Runes of Magic. It was only later when the press learned a new game would be introduced that evening that the connection clicked!

After the official announcement, I looked forward to learning even more about the new dragon-laced world. I was pleased to sit down with Smedley and those members of the Runewaker team again -- namely, CEO John Tang and VP of Business Development Tony Tang -- this time to discuss the new partnership and the upcoming free-to-play game.

Gallery: Dragon's Prophet

Continue reading SOE Live 2012: Dragon's Prophet invigorates sandbox hopes

MassivelySOE Live 2012: Dragon's Prophet invigorates sandbox hopes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventioncpmbatdecoratingdragondragonsdragons-propheteventf2pfan-fairefeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgalleryhousinginterviewinterviewsJohn-Smedleyjohn-smedley-interviewJohn-Tanglas-vegasmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsnon-instanced-housingpremiumrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentskillssoesoe-fan-fairesoe-livesoe-live-2012sonysony-online-entertainmentTony-TangFri, 26 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: The final curtain falls on our TSW run]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/choose-my-adventure-the-final-curtain-falls-on-our-tsw-run/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/choose-my-adventure-the-final-curtain-falls-on-our-tsw-run/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/choose-my-adventure-the-final-curtain-falls-on-our-tsw-run/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Choose My Adventure The final curtain falls on TSW on Broadway
Out, out, brief CMA! MJ's but a viewer puppet, a poor player that struts and frets her hour upon the stage and then is heard no more... at least until next time!

To soon, too soon the show is over! But what a run it has been; our stage production of The Secret World has been a success. Between wandering the streets of New York, checking out the story of the Illuminati, and diving into everything from dungeons to investigating puzzles, this Choose My Adventure has been a fun experience. I stretched myself, doing things I wouldn't normally do. And that's all from your direction, so I thank you. But the curtain hasn't fallen yet; the final act has yet to play out; your final instructions have yet to be carried out. How did the battle fare in El Dorado? Stay in your seats for this grande finale.

And on with the show!

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: The final curtain falls on our TSW run

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: The final curtain falls on our TSW run originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-The-Secret-Worldchoose-my-adventure-TSWcmaEl-Doradofactionfantasyfeaturedfinal-actfuncomhands-onhorrorIlluminatimythologyopinionpollpollsPvPreaders-choicesci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskillsstory-driventhe-secret-worldtswvotevotingWed, 10 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Macro this!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/enter-at-your-own-rift-macro-this/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/enter-at-your-own-rift-macro-this/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/enter-at-your-own-rift-macro-this/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Enter at your own Rift Macro this!
You know that saying about never discussing religion or politics around the dinner table? I'd like to add one more to the list: RIFT macros. Some players love them, and some players hate them, to the point that the topic completely turns them off from the game. Each camp has some very valid arguments, and there doesn't seem to be too much of a middle ground on the subject. In this week's Enter at Your Own Rift, I'd like to take a look at that polarizing issue and explain why I grew to love macros.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Macro this!

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Macro this! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheatingcombatcombat-macroconquesteasymodeenter-at-your-own-riftfantasyfeaturedmacromacrosopinionpvpriftrift-literift-macrosrift-planes-of-telararvrskillskillstelarathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 26 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Go break a (zombie) leg in TSW]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/choose-my-adventure-go-break-a-zombie-leg-in-tsw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/choose-my-adventure-go-break-a-zombie-leg-in-tsw/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/choose-my-adventure-go-break-a-zombie-leg-in-tsw/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Choose My Adventure Go break a zombie leg!
Or to take arms against a sea of undead, and by opposing, end them...

You're darn tootin' I'm going to end them! That's me, taking up arms against the hordes of zombies. Or more accurately, chopping them off, along with legs, heads, and anything else that gets in the way of my blade! If you have zero interest in fighting reanimated townsfolk with flesh dripping off of them, then The Secret World is probably not the MMO for you. However, if you don't mind dicing, slicing, slashing, shooting, chopping, blasting, or otherwise obliterating said undead, then Kingsmouth really is the place to be! If zombies were a cash crop, that little town would be swimming in the moolah Scrooge McDuck-style.

For the second act of our co-production, Choose My Adventure undertook a massive scenery change. Instead of the concrete jungle of NYC where we began, the story played out in the sleepy streets of a quiet new England town. Well, quiet if you don't count the lip-smacking of the zombies gnawing on everyone. Armed with my rifle, my sword, and of course, your directions, I set off to explore, ameliorate suffering, and eviscerate the hordes of evil in The Secret World.

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Go break a (zombie) leg in TSW

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Go break a (zombie) leg in TSW originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesability-pointschoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-The-Secret-Worldcmafactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhands-onhealinghorrormore-customizationmythologynew-hairstylesopinionpollpollsreaders-choicesci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskill-pointsskill-wheelSkillsthe-secret-worldtswvotevotingzombiesWed, 26 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Illuminati takes the lead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/choose-my-adventure-illuminati-takes-the-lead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/choose-my-adventure-illuminati-takes-the-lead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/19/choose-my-adventure-illuminati-takes-the-lead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Choose My Adventure Illuminati takes the lead
It is a tale told by an Illuminati member, full of sound and fury, signifying... something?

The stage was set. An air of conspiracy permeated the theater as trappings of The Secret World hung from the balustrade and peeked from the corners to taunt the audience. Discerning eyes could spot a triangle here, a cross there. A soft buzzing could be heard, an undercurrent of sound. But something was missing. The show couldn't go on without... aha! The star!

The final task before starting this Choose My Adventure production was the selection of just who will bask in the spotlight. As director, you took on this task. Would it be a martial artist from the Orient or a proper English knight? Would the stage ring out with the sound of shots or metal upon metal? After much deliberation, you finally found the one. With her hair aflame, a sword in her hand, and a rifle within reach, the young Illuminata was perfect for the lead role.

Now, it's opening night. A hush falls. The curtain rises. All eyes turn to the stage as you start to wonder, "What on earth did I get myself into?!"

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Illuminati takes the lead

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Illuminati takes the lead originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesability-pointscharacter-creationcharacter-customizationchoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-The-Secret-Worldcmacustomizationfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhands-onhorrorilluminatimythologyopinionpollpollsreaders-choicesci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskill-pointsSkillsthe-secret-worldtswvotevotingWed, 19 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: The Secret World takes the stage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/choose-my-adventure-the-secret-world-takes-the-stage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/choose-my-adventure-the-secret-world-takes-the-stage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/12/choose-my-adventure-the-secret-world-takes-the-stage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Choose My Adventure The Secret World takes the stage
O MJ, MJ, wherefore art thou going MJ? The secret is out... er, in. I am off to the land of conspiracies. And no, I don't mean high school.

Going into this vote, many a Massively staffer thought that one game was a shoe-in and would have a decisive win. Well, we were partially right: The win was definitely decisive, but if we were putting money on it, we would have empty pockets right now! With a resounding shout that nearly leveled a section of al-Merah, you have declared that The Secret World will take center stage during this Choose My Adventure series. It just goes to show that you can't necessarily predict things, especially when a passionate fanbase rallies together.

Although this game choice is admitted unexpected, I am very excited to play this out with you. Many of you already know I really enjoy playing TSW. In fact, a few have expressed concern over this. Let me ease your thoughts a bit. Am I familiar with things about The Secret World? Yes, I am, but so are many of you. Do I love parts of it? Certainly! Do I know or have I experienced all there is to the game? Not in the slightest. And besides, remember that I won't be playing as I would play; Choose My Adventure is all about you telling me how to play your way. Trust me when I say we'll explore things in a whole new way because you will be directing each scene. So what's my first line?

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: The Secret World takes the stage

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: The Secret World takes the stage originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>choose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriechoose-my-adventure-The-Secret-Worldcmafactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhands-onhorrormythologyopinionpollpollsreaders-choicesci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskillsthe-secret-worldtswvotevotingweaponsWed, 12 Sep 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/why-i-play-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/why-i-play-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/why-i-play-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Why I Play title image
Sci-fi MMO EVE Online is possibly the most polarising online game in existence. It has some of the genre's most loyal fans and spawns some of its biggest news stories, but most people just can't stand the user interface and gameplay. It's been called boring, overcomplicated, and a griefer's paradise, but even those who don't play it often still watch from the sidelines as each insane story of theft or corruption emerges from the sandbox. Most games can only keep my attention for a few months at a time, but somehow I've played EVE for over eight and a half years.

I've heard it said that EVE is a long-term commitment, a statement I find hard to argue with as at only 26 years old I've been playing EVE almost continuously for a third of my life. It's not just been a game to me; at times it's been a way of life, a refuge from stress, a way to stay in touch with friends, and even a place to learn skills that can apply to the real world. Thanks to Massively, my attachment to EVE has even grown from a hobby to a career in writing and games journalism. I've had numerous periods of low activity in EVE and even quit for months at a time, but something always brings me back to the world's biggest sci-fi sandbox.

In this article, I look back at what drew me to EVE initially, some of the unusual factors that have kept me playing EVE over the past eight years, and the reason I'm still motivated to subscribe to this day.

Continue reading Why I Play: EVE Online

MassivelyWhy I Play: EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amigabrendan-drainbusinessccpccp-gamesdotlaneditorialeducationalefteliteemergent-gameplayeveeve-fitting-tooleve-onlineexpansionfeaturedfrontierinternet-spaceshipslearningmassively-metametanostalgianyphurop-edopinionpatchreputationsandboxsci-fisingle-shardskillssomer.blinkspacespreadsheetsspreadsheets-in-spacespreadsheets-onlinetalenttalentswhy-i-playWed, 29 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play together, loot alone in Diablo III's 1.0.4 patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/11/play-together-loot-alone-in-diablo-iiis-1-0-4-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/11/play-together-loot-alone-in-diablo-iiis-1-0-4-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/11/play-together-loot-alone-in-diablo-iiis-1-0-4-patch/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Diablo III
What would it take to get you to give Diablo III another go? A whopping patch, perhaps? Blizzard is banking on it. In the game's upcoming 1.0.4 update, the team aims to revamp more than a few major systems, so Senior Technical Game Designer Wyatt Cheng took to the official blog to lay out the plan.

For starters, Blizz wants to boost the number of folks playing co-op. That means nuking magic-find averaging in co-op matches; in 1.0.4, you'll benefit from your individual looting bonuses, and monster health will be shaved incrementally as more players join a game.

The patch also nerfs elite monster pack difficulty, makes regular mobs tougher but buffs their drops, fixes terrible weapon drops (especially weak two-handers), adjusts damage-over-time skills, and reduces repair costs by 25%, the last of which ought to make endgamers happy.

The devs are likewise "making a metric-ton of changes to classes," so expect more Battle.net blog posts in the near future.

MassivelyPlay together, loot alone in Diablo III's 1.0.4 patch originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbuffscash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasygothic-fantasymagic-findmultiplayernerfsonline-multiplayerpatchroguelikerpgskillswyatt-chengSat, 11 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Riders of Rohan brings new skills, skill tweaks to LotRO Hunters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/riders-of-rohan-brings-new-skills-skill-tweaks-to-lotro-hunters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/riders-of-rohan-brings-new-skills-skill-tweaks-to-lotro-hunters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/riders-of-rohan-brings-new-skills-skill-tweaks-to-lotro-hunters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Riders of Rohan brings new skills, skill tweaks to LotRO Hunters
Turbine has graced us with a new developer diary covering some of the tweaks coming with Lord of the Rings Online's Riders of Rohan expansion.

The update is a scant 26 days away, and not only will it bring the addition of the lands of Rohan and mounted combat, but a couple of classes will be overhauled as well. We told you about the Guardian earlier this week, so today it's the Hunter's turn in the spotlight.

Several Hunter skills are being improved. Chief among them are Agile Rejoinder and Quick Shot, the former of which will always heal a Hunter with an associated legacy, and the latter of which will reduce threat in spite of its damage output. That's not all, as the class is also receiving a new skill called Cry of the Hunter, which dazes up to six enemies and grants the Hunter a movement speed buff. Read all about it at the official LotRO website.

MassivelyRiders of Rohan brings new skills, skill tweaks to LotRO Hunters originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playhunterhunter-skillslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-hunterriders-of-rohanskillsturbineturbine-entertainmentThu, 09 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chaos Theory: How The Secret World has spoiled an MMO vet]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/chaos-theory-how-the-secret-world-has-spoiled-an-mmo-vet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/chaos-theory-how-the-secret-world-has-spoiled-an-mmo-vet/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/chaos-theory-how-the-secret-world-has-spoiled-an-mmo-vet/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chaos Theory - The Secret World header
Well ladies and gents, The Secret World has basically done the impossible: It's turned me into a one-game guy (for the moment, at least). I've been an unfaithful game-hopping MMO tourist for longer than I care to remember, and while F2P has made that gaming lifestyle more affordable than it used to be, it hasn't made it any more fun.

Oh sure, I'll dabble in PlanetSide 2 and Guild Wars 2, but as far as my MMO home goes, it's The Secret World by a landslide (at least until ArcheAge heads west). Why is that? Well, plenty of reasons, more than I can relate in this week's column, in fact. I will say this, though: The Secret World's launch feature set has made me a bit pickier in terms of what I'll put up with in competing games.

Continue reading Chaos Theory: How The Secret World has spoiled an MMO vet

MassivelyChaos Theory: How The Secret World has spoiled an MMO vet originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction3-factionsappearance-slotscast-while-movingchaos-theorycombatconspiracyconspiracy-thriillercustomizationdark-days-are-comingdragonfaction-pvpfantasyfeaturedfuncomhorrorilluminatiopinionrottensecret-world-chaos-theorysecret-world-combatskill-basedskillsspoiledspoilingtemplarsthe-secret-world-chaos-theorythe-secret-world-combatthree-factionthree-faction-pvpthree-factionstsw-chaos-theorytsw-combattsw-dragonvanity-armorvanity-gearThu, 09 Aug 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Guild Wars 2 skill points, traits, and you!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/flameseeker-chronicles-guild-wars-2-skill-points-traits-and-y/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/flameseeker-chronicles-guild-wars-2-skill-points-traits-and-y/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/31/flameseeker-chronicles-guild-wars-2-skill-points-traits-and-y/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
There comes a time in every Guild Wars 2 adventurer's life when her progression begins to go through certain, well, changes. These changes begin when an adventurer reaches level 5, and they get even more pronounced when she hits level 11. It might feel confusing and embarrassing; suddenly, you've got red exclamation marks on your hero panel and a nearly uncontrollable urge to allocate your skill points. Your skill bar starts to fill out. It's OK. It's totally natural.

You'll have questions. Where do utility skills come from? Which skills do you take, and in what order? What if you give your first point to the wrong trait line?

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Guild Wars 2 skill points, traits, and you!

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Guild Wars 2 skill points, traits, and you! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 31 Jul 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguideguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2gw2-primerintroductionncsoftopinionprimerskill-guideskill-pointsskillsskills-and-traitstrait-guidetraitstraits-and-skillsutility-skillsTue, 31 Jul 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How many skill options do you really need?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/the-daily-grind-how-many-skill-options-do-you-really-need/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/the-daily-grind-how-many-skill-options-do-you-really-need/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/30/the-daily-grind-how-many-skill-options-do-you-really-need/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

GW2
Massively's own Justin Olivetti recently opined that Guild Wars 2's skill system struck him as more regressive than progressive; he's suggested the game is a reaction to older MMOs that went overboard loading players up with so many skills and hotbars and options that gamers got lost in the mess. Lord of the Rings Online has always had that effect on me whenever I return to it and find six hotbars stuffed with more skill buttons than anyone can possibly push in a single fight or even a single dungeon. Blizzard has been trying to address a similar problem in World of Warcraft for several years.

Of course, those second-generation MMOs were fighting against the first-generation games, which were notorious for offering melee classes a grand total of one attack button to push. GW2 provides 10 skills at a time, two more skills per bar than in classic Guild Wars, but maybe the franchise is going too far in its attempt to simplify combat options for third-gen MMO players.

What do you think? How many skill buttons do you really need available for every fight so that you feel as if you always have options... but not too many or too few?

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: How many skill options do you really need? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbrianna-royce-tdgdaily-grindfantasyguild-warsguild-wars-2gw2hotbarhotkeylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroncsoftopinionskillskill-barskillbarskillstdgthe-daily-grindWorld-of-WarcraftwowMon, 30 Jul 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArenaNet devs talk legendary weapons, endgame, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/arenanet-devs-talk-legendary-weapons-endgame-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/arenanet-devs-talk-legendary-weapons-endgame-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/arenanet-devs-talk-legendary-weapons-endgame-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

ArenaNet devs talk legendary weapons, end game, and more
Have you always wanted to wield a unicorn bow and shoot trails of rainbows? (We know you have; don't lie to us.) If you have, ArenaNet developers Eric Flannum and Colin Johanson have confirmed today that Guild Wars 2 is the game for you.

The two devs took to Guild Wars 2's Twitch page today to talk about late- and endgame content and progression for the game. To begin with, they talked about Orr, the erstwhile city of the gods, which has recently been turned into the abode of the dragon Zhaitan and his reanimated minions. Orr has no renown hearts, the quest-like activities that have been known to litter the lower-level areas, "because there are generally very few friendly NPCs in Orr." Instead, players' focus in Orr will be on huge events. There are roughly twice as many dynamic events in the Orrian areas as in other explorable zones; many of these are tied together as nets, rather than simple chains. Events tend to have farther-reaching effects than we've seen so far in lower-level areas, putting emphasis more on holistic zone control and cooperation than in the early game. Johanson suggested that players will need to recapture the fallen temples of the old gods and then keep control of those while also pushing deeper into the zone and fighting baddies at the frontlines.

Continue reading ArenaNet devs talk legendary weapons, endgame, and more

MassivelyArenaNet devs talk legendary weapons, endgame, and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcolin-johansondungeonend-gameendgameeric-flannumfantasyguild-wars-2gw2legendary-weaponslivestreamlivestreamsmystic-forgencsoftorrprogressionqAskillsvideovideosweaponsThu, 12 Jul 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Survarium dev diary details story and skills]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/mmofps-survarium-dev-diary-details-story-and-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/mmofps-survarium-dev-diary-details-story-and-skills/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/09/mmofps-survarium-dev-diary-details-story-and-skills/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Survarium
2020 is the end of the world as we know it according, to the upcoming free-to-play FPS Suvarium. The studio Vostok Games, recently formed by ex-S.T.A.L.K.E.R. devs, has released a second developer's diary for its inaugural title detailing the events that lead up to the game's setting, an Earth converted into a wasteland by an ecological catastrophe.

The video also explains that players, the survivors of the catastrophe, will become stronger by completing faction missions and developing five skills: firearms training, physical training, medical knowledge, technical training, and knowledge of the new world. The video concludes by discussing the team combat mode, cooperative-play mode, and free-play mode.

For more details on these features, watch the video after the break.

Continue reading Survarium dev diary details story and skills

MassivelySurvarium dev diary details story and skills originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-diarydeveloper-diaryenvironmental-catastrophemmofpsnewspost-apocalypticskillsstalkerSuvariumvideovostokvostok-gamesMon, 09 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A roadmap to The Secret World's ability wheel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/a-roadmap-to-the-secret-worlds-ability-wheel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/a-roadmap-to-the-secret-worlds-ability-wheel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/a-roadmap-to-the-secret-worlds-ability-wheel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
After months and months of warning us that dark days are coming, Funcom's new horror-sprinkled title, The Secret World, has finally arrived. The game brings a number of new twists to the tried-and-true MMORPG formula, but its character progression is its biggest departure from the MMO formula. While many modern titles rely on class-based systems or other linear progression paths, TSW takes a considerably more open-ended approach with the ability wheel.

However, this freedom of progression comes with a price. With more variety, there's more choice, and with more choice, there's bound to be more indecision. But don't fret: I'm here to help pull back the curtain on the mystery of the skill wheel and its many offerings. Want to know which route to take to dish out damage, take the hits, or heal and support your allies? Then follow along with me as I delve into the many intricacies of The Secret World's ability wheel.

Continue reading A roadmap to The Secret World's ability wheel

MassivelyA roadmap to The Secret World's ability wheel originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jul 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesability-guideability-wheelability-wheel-guidebuildbuildscharacter-buildsexclusivefactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomguideguideshorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskill-guideskill-wheelskill-wheel-guideskillsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-guidetswtsw-guideFri, 06 Jul 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Why last-hitting is important]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/the-summoners-guidebook-why-last-hitting-is-important/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/the-summoners-guidebook-why-last-hitting-is-important/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/14/the-summoners-guidebook-why-last-hitting-is-important/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Summoner's Guidebook Why lasthitting is important
We've covered last-hitting quite a bit in previous editions of the Summoner's Guidebook. However, a lot of people new to the MOBA scene don't understand the importance of last-hitting. I don't mean that they don't understand the importance of the action within the game; I'm sure we all understand that getting gold is a good thing. But last-hitting is important from a design perspective too. I think League of Legends (and MOBA games in general) are better because last-hitting is a part of the game.

I didn't always feel this way, of course. When I was a MOBA nooblet, I thought last-hitting was an unnecessary PvE element in a competitive PvP game, and it took away from the game's clear objective: taking enemy turrets. When I really sank my teeth into LoL, last-hitting finally clicked. It's a really critical element of the genre, and this week, I'll explain why.

Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Why last-hitting is important

MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Why last-hitting is important originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jun 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad-designf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-designgood-designlast-hittingleagueleague-of-legendslolmobaopinionpracticepvpriotriot-gamesskillskill-buildingskillssummoners-guidebookthe-summoners-guidebookThu, 14 Jun 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation's May report highlights new crafting and combat goodies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/05/the-repopulations-may-report-highlights-new-crafting-and-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/05/the-repopulations-may-report-highlights-new-crafting-and-combat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/05/the-repopulations-may-report-highlights-new-crafting-and-combat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Repopulation screenshot
Another month has come and gone, which means it's time for another end-of-the-month status report for The Repopulation, the upcoming sci-fi sandbox game that plans to start a round of alpha testing this month. To get ready for this next step, Above and Beyond Technologies has been hard at work adding new elements to the game and tweaking many existing ones.

Amid the UI tweaks and bug fixes, this update includes world, skill, crafting, and combat changes. Two new areas (Oasis Valley and Wreckage Site 94) have opened, while other areas have been revamped. Over fifty new decoration items have been added, including benches and chairs where players can sit. Stealth has been reworked so that players can now detect others using their own skill check. Crafting has a new system in place that will require players to respond to occasional events and the responses will affect the result of the craft. Combat sees new immunity timers for daze and stun effects that will prevent players from becoming stun-locked in PvP.

And that's just the tip of the update iceberg; full details can be found in the patch notes.

MassivelyThe Repopulation's May report highlights new crafting and combat goodies originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiescraftingend-of-mayend-of-may-reportend-of-month-reportnew-landsnewsprogress-reportrepopulationsandboxsci-fiskillsstealththe-repopulationTue, 05 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Five top tips for your first few days of Diablo III]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/five-top-tips-for-your-first-few-days-of-diablo-iii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/five-top-tips-for-your-first-few-days-of-diablo-iii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/five-top-tips-for-your-first-few-days-of-diablo-iii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Diablo III title image
Diablo III officially launched at midnight last night, opening the floodgates on what is possibly the most pre-ordered PC game in history. It's been almost 12 years since the previous game in the series launched, and it's still going to this day. Whether you've played previous games, have taken part in the Diablo III beta or are taking your first steps into Sanctuary today, everyone starts with a clean slate. In this article, I give my top five tips for spending your first few days wisely in Diablo III.

#5 - Spend most of your time on one character

It seems like a bit of a no-brainer to initially focus on one character, but in Diablo III's case, there's a special reason to do it. You'll likely finish normal mode around level 20-30, and until then, you'll get a new skill almost every level. It's only when you've completed normal mode and moved on to nightmare that the challenge really starts and you will have picked out an effective set of skills. Your last active skill unlocks at level 30, and from then on you'll gain a combination of two to three runes or passive skills every level until you hit the level cap at 60.

Read on for four more tips you should keep in mind as you start playing Diablo III.

Continue reading Five top tips for your first few days of Diablo III

MassivelyFive top tips for your first few days of Diablo III originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgauction-housebarrelsbattlenetblacksmithblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchartd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasyfeaturedgothic-fantasygraphguideguideslaunch-daylevellevel-chartlevelinglevelsmultiplayeronline-multiplayerpartypassivesphysicsrpgrunessanctuaryskill-chartskillstipstop-fivetop-tipsweaponsTue, 15 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: Simplicity itself]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/flameseeker-chronicles-simplicity-itself/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/flameseeker-chronicles-simplicity-itself/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/flameseeker-chronicles-simplicity-itself/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 concept art
ArenaNet is designing Guild Wars 2 to appeal to bucketloads of people. The studio's got the PvP and competition, the high-end dungeon challenge, the super-cooperative and dynamic PvE content, the compelling and branching storyline, the flashy (and occasionally sensibly flashy) armors -- there's a lot going on. Part of what makes that possible is the use of very approachable systems.

These simple systems pop up all over the place: the straight-forward lists of boons and conditions that affect players, the common capture point mechanic over which more intricate PvP objectives can be layered, and the relatively small pool of skills from which to assemble a build. The beauty of their simplicity is that the simplicity itself isn't a limiting factor -- you can't do only simple things with them.

In this way, simple systems have a low entry barrier and a high complexity capacity. That means that more people can enjoy the game with relatively little skill and that there's a lot of room for time, dedication, and finesse to lead to outstanding results. Anyone can play, but not everyone can (or will) master elements of the game.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Simplicity itself

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Simplicity itself originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetcbtdynamic-eventsemergent-gameplayeventsfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2ncsoftopinionskill-comboskillsTue, 17 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Hands-on with Perfect World's RaiderZ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pax-east-2012-hands-on-with-perfect-worlds-raiderz/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pax-east-2012-hands-on-with-perfect-worlds-raiderz/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/pax-east-2012-hands-on-with-perfect-worlds-raiderz/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Raiderz - giant frogger boss
TERA isn't the only upcoming MMO to feature big-ass monsters and action combat. Perfect World Entertainment showed us a demo of RaiderZ at last weekend's PAX East, and producer Mark Hill was pretty enthusiastic about the game's level of polish. He also made a point of highlighting the amount of free gameplay the company will be making available to fans later this year.

"We really want to blow people away with how much free content they're getting out of a really top-notch game," he said. Join us after the cut to see what RaiderZ has to offer.

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Hands-on with Perfect World's RaiderZ

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Hands-on with Perfect World's RaiderZ originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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This was going to be filled with fire-related puns, but I lost the popular vote on that.
There are a lot of questions within the RIFT community, questions the development team seeks to answer with a new set of responses to community inquiries. Some of the answers are a bit on the negative side; there are no plans to expand the game's lore into novels, for instance. There are also no plans to add in arena-style combat or the option of visible cloaks, with the developers feeling that the former makes the game seem less massive and the latter has a detrimental impact on game performance.

That doesn't mean it's all bad news, however. The developers are looking into more ways to allow cross-faction interaction beyond the mercenary PvP system. There's also some talk about the next big raid and player feedback, which according to the answers is largely positive. There are also plans for more Souls in the future, which should provide RIFT players with even more options to custom-build a character.

[Update: Trion contacted us to clarify the cloak question. They say that cloaks aren't completely off-the-table, they're just not focusing on them right now. There was even a hint that cloaks will be a definite future addition to RIFT.]

MassivelyRIFT developers answer a new round of community questions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesarenaarenascapescloakscross-factionfactionsfantasypowersq-and-aquestions-and-answersriftrift-literift-planes-of-telaraskillssoulsspecstriontrion-worldsThu, 29 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's lead designer explains abilities, skills, gear, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - beta ability wheel
Funcom's been pretty quiet since its GDC reveal of The Secret World. Today, though, lead designer Martin Bruusgaard has dropped the smack down on the information void via a lengthy blog post on the game's official site.

You'll probably want a couple of caffeinated beverages for this one because Bruusgaard has a lot to say about The Secret World's abilities, skills, gear, progression, and crafting systems. We would try to summarize it for you, but we'd still be typing this time tomorrow, so suffice it to say that basically every mechanical question you have about the game is at least touched on in this post.

There are plenty of interesting tidbits too, like the fact that TSW is shaping up to be one of the more non-linear experiences to be found among the latest crop of AAA MMORPGs. "The players are free to go wherever they want from the beginning, but they will most likely get their ass handed to them in the more difficult zones," Bruusgaard explains.

MassivelyThe Secret World's lead designer explains abilities, skills, gear, and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diaryfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormartin-bruusgaardmechanicsmythologyprogressionsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskillsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-craftingthe-secret-world-mechanicsthe-secret-world-progressiontswMon, 26 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Okay. Maybe this is okay. Maybe it just wants a bacon strip.
The Secret World is going to feature a lot of different monsters to contend with, and that means a lot of different tricks to deal with all of them. We've known for a while that the game will feature a freeform skill system, but in a recent video diary the development staff shows off some of these freeform skills in action and in visual flow. As stated before, players can pick any different combination of skills and abilities from the skill wheel, with the big key simply being to look for synergy between your various abilities.

Regardless of what your character has unlocked, you'll be limited to seven active abilities and seven passive abilities at any given time, thereby ensuring that more experienced characters will have more options rather than more raw power. The video also talks about templates to help guide new players and the game's equipment system, all of which emphasize the role of players in determining how they want to play. If this sounds right up your alley, take a look at the full video diary just past the break.

Continue reading The Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression

MassivelyThe Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesdev-diarydeveloper-diaryfactionfantasyfreeform-progressionfuncomgame-mechanicshorrormechanicsmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskill-progressionskillsthe-secret-worldtswvideovideosWed, 21 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should MMOs balance for PvP, PvE, or yes?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/the-daily-grind-should-mmos-balance-for-pvp-pve-or-yes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/the-daily-grind-should-mmos-balance-for-pvp-pve-or-yes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/the-daily-grind-should-mmos-balance-for-pvp-pve-or-yes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Guild Wars
The original concept for Guild Wars is right there in the name: guild wars. There was no question that regardless of how much PvE content the game planned to feature, there'd be at least as much or more GvG content for the competitive folks.

But as more and more skills were added to the game, the devs ran into serious balancing problems and began tweaking the skills so that the PvP meta was less affected by the powercreep slowly taking over PvE. Eventually, ArenaNet split the skills, giving some skills different effects depending on whether they were being used against players or monsters; some newer skills were designed to be PvE-only from the start.

Do you think Guild Wars offers a pragmatic solution to the PvE/PvP balance problems that plague so many MMOs? Or do you think games should strive to balance their gameplay without creating skills (or gear) that do different things in different situations?

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: Should MMOs balance for PvP, PvE, or yes? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbrianna-royce-tdgdaily-grindfantasyguild-vs-guildguild-warsgvggwncsoftopinionpower-creeppowercreeppvepve-skillspvpskillstdgthe-daily-grindMon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-rune-system-and-new-moba-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
League of Legends discussed the Chinese community this week as part of its World Tour series. Dota 2 delivered three weeks worth of beta updates at once, including a new single draft game mode and matchmaking system. Heroes of Newerth released its latest hero this week, the fire-breathing dragon Draconis, who has massive farming capabilities. Rise of Immortals launched its latest immortal Kaos, a seemingly mortal US Marine lost in the game's fantasy land.

Diablo III took another step toward release this week by finalising a replacement for the scrapped rune stone system and cutting socketable runes from the list of potential features at the same time. Torchlight II teased players with six new screenshots, and Path of Exile discussed the design process behind the game's unique items. Finally, Blacklight: Retribution announced its public open beta, which is due to start next week.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III's rune system and new MOBA heroes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoaction-rpgbattlenetbetablacklightblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcompetitive-gamingd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotadraconise-sporte-sportsesportesportsf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgothic-fantasygrinding-geargrinding-gear-gamesheroheroes-of-newerthhonimmortalkaosleague-of-legendslolmmofpsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmonline-multiplayeropen-betapath-of-exileperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespoepvppweriotriot-gamesrise-of-immortalsroiround-uprounduprpgrunerunesrunestonerunic-gamess2s2-gamesskillstl2torchlight-iivideoMon, 20 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online discusses the fine details of advancement]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/mechwarrior-online-discusses-the-fine-details-of-advancement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/mechwarrior-online-discusses-the-fine-details-of-advancement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/mechwarrior-online-discusses-the-fine-details-of-advancement/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Centurions have never looked quite so impressive.
MechWarrior Online continues its march along in development, but that's no reason for fans to just wait and see what happens. A new installment in the developer blog that answers community questions has just been unveiled, tackling a variety of different topics. The primary focus is on customizing your 'Mech and advancing your character skills, building off of the recent discussion regarding the means of advancement and how players can upgrade their skills.

As outlined by the questions, the experience system will in some ways be reminiscent of EVE Online's -- players won't be able to respec, but there will be no limitations on starting to put points in a new tree while retaining the benefits of previously spent points. It's also confirmed that your experience with a given chassis remains even if you move on from the 'Mech in question should you later choose to return. If you're worried about the fine details of self-improvement in the upcoming game, the latest answer should put most of your questions to rest.

MassivelyMechWarrior Online discusses the fine details of advancement originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>improvementslevelingmechwarrior-onlinemwopilot-skillspirahnapirahna-gamespreviwesq-and-aquestions-and-answersskillsupdatesupgradesWed, 15 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom reveals The Secret World skill deck templates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/funcom-reveals-the-secret-world-skill-deck-templates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/funcom-reveals-the-secret-world-skill-deck-templates/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/funcom-reveals-the-secret-world-skill-deck-templates/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Illuminati dude with a swell goatee
Funcom has penned a new dev diary at MMORPG.com, and the piece reveals three new skill decks from the firm's The Secret World title.

What's a skill deck?

It's The Secret World's answer to the how-do-you-make-a-level-free-MMORPG question, and it allows players to select from 500 abilities to create "exactly the type of character they want." Funcom thinks the system will seem daunting to players used to simpler class-based mechanics in competing MMOs, and as such the firm is adding a few deck templates to offer players a helping hand.

Three of these are profiled in the new diary, including one from each of the game's factions. The Witch Hunter focuses on big damage spikes and represents the Templars, the Warlord is your basic swordfighter from the Dragon faction, and the Thaumaturgist is the Illuminati's answer to the gunmage archetype.

[Thanks to fallwind for the tip!]

MassivelyFuncom reveals The Secret World skill deck templates originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>damage-dealerdev-blogdev-diarydragonfantasyfuncomgunmagehorrorilluminatiskill-basedskill-deckskillsswordfightertemplarthaumaturgistthe-secret-worldtswwarlordwitch-hunterThu, 09 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's Bruusgard talks skill decks, customization]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/the-secret-worlds-bruusgard-talks-skill-decks-customization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/the-secret-worlds-bruusgard-talks-skill-decks-customization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/08/the-secret-worlds-bruusgard-talks-skill-decks-customization/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Templar girl fighting
The Secret World launch is fast approaching (though it may not be exactly when we some are reporting), and plenty of things of things about the game remain, well, secret.

GamesRadar recently cornered lead designer Martin Bruusgaard and sussed out a few details regarding the game's skill deck mechanics. Bruusgaard says the system was designed to offer players a way to get their heads around the game's 500-plus abilities. While there are some recommended decks and combos for newer players, Bruusgaard says the intent behind the The Secret World's classless progression system lies is adaptability and plenty of customization options.

"Some of the beauty of the system is allowing the players to come up with cool stuff themselves. We want to reward the players who dive into this and take their time to tinker with this, and there are lots of cool combinations we will save for these players," he explains.

MassivelyThe Secret World's Bruusgard talks skill decks, customization originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>decksdesignfantasyfuncomgame-mechanicshorrorinterviewmartin-bruusgaardsecret-worldskill-basedskill-decksskillsthe-secret-worldWed, 08 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST