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[Spacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes talks Dark Legends design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/spacetime-studios-cinco-barnes-talks-dark-legends-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/spacetime-studios-cinco-barnes-talks-dark-legends-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/spacetime-studios-cinco-barnes-talks-dark-legends-design/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Google Plus hangout screenshot
If you have wondered about what was going on in Spacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes' head while designing Dark Legends, wonder no more. I was asked to sit in on a Google + hangout, essentially a public video conference call, with Cinco, Carter Dotson from 148apps and Heidi Duran from GirlGamer. The event was moderated by Ashley Esqueda from G4TV. Cinco fielded some questions from us and fans of the game.

Want to see some cool concept art? Need to know if the energy mechanic in Dark Legends was created just to make fast cash? Have you heard about Spacetime's newly announced title Arcane Legends, but have no idea what might be involved with the game? Have you wondered about the images in the opening video, the appearance of top hats, and the possibility of obtaining all of those great costumes through in-game means? You can find out the answers to these and other important questions in the video, embedded just after the cut.

Continue reading Spacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes talks Dark Legends design

MassivelySpacetime Studios' Cinco Barnes talks Dark Legends design originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>148appsarcane-legendsashley-esquedabeau-hindmancarter-dotsoncinco-barnesdark-legendsG4TVGirlGamergooglegoogle-plusheidi-duranmobilepocket-legendsspacetime-studiosstar-legendsFri, 25 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Arcane Legends officially announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/arcane-legends-officially-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/arcane-legends-officially-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/arcane-legends-officially-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Arcane Legends
While we knew it was coming, it is still nice to get official confirmation: Spacetime Studios has announced Arcane Legends, its latest MMO for iOS, Android, and Chrome.

With Arcane Legends, Spacetime Studios is going back to its fantasy roots. Instead of Pocket Legends' more traditional MMO combat, however, Arcane Legends will feature action combat full of combos and button-mashing. During the combat, a rage meter will allow players to activate powerful abilities when it's completely full.

The three classes announced for the game are the Warrior, Rogue, and Sorcerer. Arcane Legends will support both co-op and PvP gameplay.

CEO Gary Gattis thinks that Arcane Legends is different enough from previous Spacetime endeavors to justify its development: "With every Legends title we are focused on bringing something distinct to cross-platform gaming. With Arcane Legends we set out to create an action RPG with a clever and funny story, meaningful multiplayer gameplay and above all furious fast-paced tactical combat."

Massively will be getting its first look at Arcane Legends at E3 next month.

MassivelyArcane Legends officially announced originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combataction-rpgAndroidarcane-legendsChromecoope3e3-2012fantasyGary-GattisiOSpocket-legendspvpRogueSorcererspacetimespacetime-studiosWarriorTue, 22 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spacetime Studios teases Arcane Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/spacetime-studios-teases-arcane-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/spacetime-studios-teases-arcane-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/spacetime-studios-teases-arcane-legends/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Spacetime Studios
Pocket Legends. Star Legends. Dark Legends. And now... Arcane Legends?

Yes, it appears to be true! Spacetime Studios is working on a fourth title for its popular mobile MMO library, filing a trademark that has since been approved. The application for a U.S. federal trademark was submitted on April 5th and was given the thumbs up May 10th. As one of its categories is "electronic game software for cellular telephones," we can reasonably deduce that Arcane Legends will launch on mobile devices in the same manner of its older siblings.

Spacetime Studios told us that it will release an official announcement of the title later this week. The studio recently released the vampire-themed MMO Dark Legends on iOS and Android devices.

MassivelySpacetime Studios teases Arcane Legends originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidannouncementarcanearcane-legendsdark-legendsf2pfree-to-playiosnew-titlepocket-legendsspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendstrademarkMon, 21 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Dark Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Legends screenshot
Dark Legends, the new title from mobile MMO king Spacetime Studios, is already creating a buzz with its liberal use of an energy pool that is sapped as players go through standard gameplay. If this mechanic were packaged any differently and inside a sandbox, it's possible that people would call it "realistic" or "hardcore." Unfortunately, problems set in as soon as players realized that playing the game for hours on end would require some infusion of real-life funds or the ability to kill pretty large chunks of time in non-combat areas.

I would argue that the gameplay does not have to be designed for marathon gaming sessions. It's very possible that the "casual" part of the game's description actually means "casual." I still had issues with the mechanic; don't get me wrong. But if I was bothered by anything it would be Dark Legends' lack of borrowing features from Pocket Legends, Spacetime's flagship mobile MMO, which offers actual persistent areas and other MMO staples.

Of course, it's possible that Spacetime is simply trying something new. Heaven forbid it should attempt a new design!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Dark Legends

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Dark Legends originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatMUDbeau-hindmanBioWareccpdark-legendseve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onlivestreammassively-tvmudrise-and-shinyspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamswtortwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 13 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Legends launches on Apple devices, hits 500K players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/dark-legends-launches-on-apple-devices-hits-500k-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/dark-legends-launches-on-apple-devices-hits-500k-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/dark-legends-launches-on-apple-devices-hits-500k-players/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dark Legends
The tortured souls of the underworld Apple users have twiddled their thumbs and sharpened their canines for over a month now, a month that Android and Chrome users have played Dark Legends to their hearts' content. After that long wait, iOS owners can stop penning brooding poetry on Livejournal and start playing the game proper: Spacetime Studios has released Dark Legends on the App Store.

Apple users can now joining the 500,000-plus Dark Legends community by simply downloading the game from the store and getting their vamp on. Edward-wannabes have a daunting task in front of them, however, as all of the darker fantasy forces are out to be a serious pain in their neck.

Dark Legends follows in the wake of Spacetime's enormously popular Pocket Legends and Star Legends. It's available as a free download with optional in-app purchases and can be played over wifi, edge, 3G, and 4G networks.

Our own Beau is livestreaming Dark Legends today on Massively TV, so be sure to see what he thinks of the game!

[Source: Spacetime Studios press release]

MassivelyDark Legends launches on Apple devices, hits 500K players originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapp-storeappleapple-app-storechromedark-legendsdraculaedwardf2pfree-to-playiosipadiphoneipod-touchitouchlaunchmobilemobile-mmoobscure-livejournal-referencepocket-legendsspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsvampireMon, 07 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Gemstone IV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/rise-and-shiny-gemstone-iv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/rise-and-shiny-gemstone-iv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/29/rise-and-shiny-gemstone-iv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gemstone IV screenshot with map
This article was a long time coming. Not only have I avoided taking a look at any sort of pure MUD for many years, but I meant to write this up last week but real life interrupted my plans. I just didn't think it was fair to write up a first impressions based on only a few hours of play. I was quite hesitant to take a deeper look at Gemstone IV mainly because I knew that the non-stop reading would surely create more migraines that might derail my work again. I was very worried, actually.

Luckily, the Gemstone IV client is customizable enough to allow me to create a "book-style" experience: black text on a white background. I don't think I'm alone in my inability to view bright, colored text on a dark background comfortably. If I were, popular websites would still look like they were from 1996. We've moved past ugly fonts and horrible color combinations.

Unfortunately it took me most of the time with Gemstone IV just to learn how to play, make the text comfortable to read, and understand what my character was supposed to be doing. Once I got comfortable, though, I honestly had one of the most enchanting times in a game yet.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Gemstone IV

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Gemstone IV originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetArena-Netarenanetbeau-hindmandark-legendsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgemstone-ivGuild-Wars-2hands-onLiveStreammassively-tvmudmulti-user-dungeonriftrise-and-shinyspacetime-studiosstreamstreamingtext-based-adventurestwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 29 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 197: The audio plague]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/massively-speaking-episode-197-the-audio-plague/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/massively-speaking-episode-197-the-audio-plague/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/17/massively-speaking-episode-197-the-audio-plague/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

SWTOR
Massively Speaking Episode 197 reviews a big week for MMOs, with several launches, updates, and live events going off all over the place. We had to hit the big red Massively Alarm three times during this time, prompting the MassivelyBusters to jump out of their beds, slide down the pole, and take the NERF-1 out to the scene of the action. Then we farmed spores, molds, and fungi with Elisabeth Cardy.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 197: The audio plague

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 197: The audio plague originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionanetarenanetascendascensionbiowarebrantbrianna-roycechampionschampions-onlinechampscoconconventioncrypticcryptic-studiosdark-legendse-sporteaelectronic-artselisabeth-cardyesportexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2hi-rezhi-rez-studioshumorjustin-olivettilucasartsmassively-speakingncsoftopinionpaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expoperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpodcastpodcastingpodcastspvppwesci-fishooterspacetime-studiosstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feesuperherosuperheroesswtorthe-old-republictortribestribes-ascendtribes-mmotribes-universetruly-freeTue, 17 Apr 2012 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 197Massively.com Staff01:02:31podcasts<![CDATA[MMObility: Dark Legends' cash shop, Thinix, and Parallel Mafia's launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/mmobility-dark-legends-cash-shop-thinix-and-parallel-mafias/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/mmobility-dark-legends-cash-shop-thinix-and-parallel-mafias/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/mmobility-dark-legends-cash-shop-thinix-and-parallel-mafias/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Legends screenshot
I know this is not what you want to hear if you are a fan of Spacetime Studios and were really excited about it new title, Dark Legends, but here goes: The energy mechanic that seems to have so many players upset is really not that bad at all. See, at some point many games decided to use a limited amount of energy to fuel character actions, and once it runs out, it seems like game over. It has always been the case (ever since Farmville first made the mechanic so popular that misguided gamers thought Zynga had somehow invented it) that energy in these sorts of games refills naturally, over time, for free.

I played through Dark Legends on launch night and was able to complete an entire campaign with some energy left over. Sure, I had to pause once to refill a couple of bars (they take five minutes each to refill), but other than that, I had no issues with it. If the energy becomes an issue at later levels, I do not know.

Let's not confuse things here: The energy mechanic in Dark Legends is nothing new, it's not a scam, and it does not force players to do anything. Allow me to explain, then we're moving on to other mobile MMO news.

Continue reading MMObility: Dark Legends' cash shop, Thinix, and Parallel Mafia's launch

MassivelyMMObility: Dark Legends' cash shop, Thinix, and Parallel Mafia's launch originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmandark-legendsfeaturedinspiron-duoIOSiphoneMMObilitymobileparallel-mafiaperbluespacetime-studiosthinixvideoFri, 13 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Legends aims to make your vampire sparkle with a weapon giveaway]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/dark-legends-aims-to-make-your-vampire-sparkle-with-a-pair-of-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/dark-legends-aims-to-make-your-vampire-sparkle-with-a-pair-of-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/dark-legends-aims-to-make-your-vampire-sparkle-with-a-pair-of-ma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Dark LegendsWe posted yesterday that Dark Legends, the latest in a line of F2P mobile and browser-friendly MMOs from Spacetime Studios, is now officially up and running on Android systems and Chrome browsers. Today, Spacetime has a present for all you would-be vampires out there: a pair of rockin' weapons called Devastation Maces.

To grab yours, start up the game and either log into your existing account or create a new one. Make sure you're playing the character whom you want to receive the weapons because you can only grab these once per account! Zip through the tutorial missions and then head to the Spacetime Nexus from the main lobby screen. There, on the bottom right of your screen, you'll see a button for enterting a promo code. Enter the code massively20120410 and find your maces waiting for you in your character's inventory.

The code has unlimited uses, so everyone who wants one can use it, but do note that it will expire eventually, so snag that gift sooner rather than later. Many thanks to Spacetime Studios -- have fun!

MassivelyDark Legends aims to make your vampire sparkle with a weapon giveaway originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidchromecontestcontestsdark-legendsgiveawaygiveawayshorrormobile-mmospacetimespacetime-studiosvampiresThu, 12 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Legends goes live for Android and Chrome]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/dark-legends-goes-live-for-mobile-devices-and-chrome/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/dark-legends-goes-live-for-mobile-devices-and-chrome/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/dark-legends-goes-live-for-mobile-devices-and-chrome/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

He bit her right in her main catsup artery.
So you like vampires? It's kind of a thing these days. Maybe you like vampires so much that you really want to play around with some vampiric content on your mobile device. That's for the best, as Spacetime Studios has released Dark Legends today. Building off the success of the studio's previous mobile/browser titles (Pocket Legends and Star Legends), the newest game allows players to take on the role of a bloodsucking monster of the night.

The game is currently available in the the Google Play Store and the Chrome app store; it won't be available in the iOS app store for a few more weeks. Like previous offerings, it's free-to-play, and you can log in from separate devices to play both on the road and at home. Unlike previous games, this one is definitely not aiming for the family market, being a fair bit more overtly violent and bloody. Still, if you feel the urge to rampage through dark alleys while you are walking through said alleys in real life, Dark Legends has you covered.

[Update: We've clarified that the game is not yet available for Apple users. Sorry for the confusion!]

MassivelyDark Legends goes live for Android and Chrome originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-mmodark-legendsf2pfree-to-playmobilenew-gamesnew-titlespocket-legendsspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsvampiresWed, 11 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Parallel Mafia is not a typical Mafia game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/mmobility-parallel-mafia-is-not-a-typical-mafia-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/mmobility-parallel-mafia-is-not-a-typical-mafia-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/mmobility-parallel-mafia-is-not-a-typical-mafia-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Parallel Mafia icon
If you have played Parallel Kingdom by PerBlue before, then a lot of what I am going to describe might sound familiar. If not, then it might sound very unique and exciting. The truth is that I have been attempting to get into Parallel Kingdom for a while but always found myself a bit overwhelmed, so I was excited to be invited to check out PerBlue's new title Parallel Mafia. I hoped that I might squeeze in some questions about Parallel Kingdom while I had the team on the line. Sure enough, I not only got introduced to the new title but left the interview knowing a lot more about Parallel Kingdom. I have been playing heavily since then. As I compare the two titles, I can see a lot of similarities, but there are some nice differences as well.

Both titles are location-based MMORPGs. I have always wanted more options in the genre, but I imagine it's a tough one to develop in. What's the point of the real-life connection? Why would players want to play in a game that is basically spawned on top of Google Maps?

Continue reading MMObility: Parallel Mafia is not a typical Mafia game

MassivelyMMObility: Parallel Mafia is not a typical Mafia game originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedfeaturedgoogle-mapsiOSiphonelocation-basedmafia-warsmmobilitymobileperbluepocket-legendssmartphonespacetime-studiosstar-legendsUltima-OnlineZyngaFri, 16 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Utilizing Windows 8 to help with MMO chores]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/mmobility-utilizing-windows-8-to-help-with-mmo-chores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/mmobility-utilizing-windows-8-to-help-with-mmo-chores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/mmobility-utilizing-windows-8-to-help-with-mmo-chores/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Windows 8 preview screenshot
Not so long ago, I told you about my acquisition of an Inspiron Duo netbook, a 10-inch device that was not only a small laptop but also a touchscreen tablet device. It is a very sturdy device, and the flip-around screen works well. The main problem with the device was that it came with Windows 7 while only sporting a dual core processor and two gigs of RAM. The other main issue was that the 10-inch screen has a 1366x768-pixel resolution, meaning that it was often uncomfortable to read on it or play games unless I zoomed in.

Recently Microsoft released the Windows 8 public preview, so I downloaded it after reading that it was really geared for tablet or touchcreen devices. Sure enough, the same 10-inch netbook that was not getting a lot of use around here suddenly became faster and much more friendly to the eyes.

It's perfect timing, as well, especially since I will be starting my "chores" experiment in which I see whether scheduling my gameplay each day will help me with an issue I have been having.

Continue reading MMObility: Utilizing Windows 8 to help with MMO chores

MassivelyMMObility: Utilizing Windows 8 to help with MMO chores originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanBigpointbsg-onlinecastle-empirechoresdie2niteduof2pfeaturedfree-to-pftpglitchgolden-agegunshineillyriadinspiron-duojagexjunebud-abmilmominitroopersmiramagiamirimagiammobilitymmortsmobilepocket-legendsriotzonerunescaspacetime-studiosstar-legendstouchscreentwinoidFri, 09 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/massively-speaking-episode-190-gdc-wednesday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking
Massively Speaking Episode 190 brings us another installment of the wild and wacky adventures of Massively's GDC crew. Today the entire ensemble has assembled, with Shawn, Jef, Karen, and MJ hogging the mike and sharing their impressions and experiences from the convention. Also, Karen rules from the Iron Throne, so do not mess with her or she'll send you to the Wall.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
[RSS] Add Massively Speaking to your RSS aggregator.
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-thronesbattleshipbattleshipsbigpointbiowarebrantbrianna-royceccpccp-gamesconsoledark-legendsdustdust-514eveeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgame-of-throneshistoricalhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemmofpsmwoopinionpiranhapiranha-gamesplaneplanesplaystationplaystation-3podcastpodcastingpodcastsps3pvpsci-fishooterspacetime-studiostanktanksthe9triontrion-worldswarwargaming-netwargaming.netwarplanewarplaneswobworld-of-battleshipsworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplaneswotwowpThu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 190Massively.com Staff00:28:20podcasts<![CDATA[GDC 2012: A look at Dark Legends with Spacetime Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-dark-legends-with-spacetime-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-dark-legends-with-spacetime-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/gdc-2012-a-look-at-dark-legends-with-spacetime-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Legends
Life, death, and a return from the grave: That sums up the life of a vampire, but it also sums up the journey of Spacetime Studios. What do the two have in common? The studio's upcoming title called Dark Legends. At GDC 2012 this week, Massively had a chance to talk with Gary Gattis, CEO of Spacetime Studios, and we got a first-hand look at how the company successfully created a game in which people can play together on laptops, tablets, phones, and virtually any mobile device available.

Continue reading GDC 2012: A look at Dark Legends with Spacetime Studios

MassivelyGDC 2012: A look at Dark Legends with Spacetime Studios originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconferenceconventiondark-legendsfeaturedgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gary-gattisgdcgdc-2012interviewinterviewskaren-bryanmobilemobile-mmospocket-legendsspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsWed, 07 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: The 16 MMOs in my pocket]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/mmobility-the-16-mmos-in-my-pocket/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/mmobility-the-16-mmos-in-my-pocket/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/mmobility-the-16-mmos-in-my-pocket/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

HTC Inspire picture
I have a smartphone that is pretty much filled to the brim with actual, functional, persistent MMORPGs. Some of them are three-dimensional romps through massive worlds filled with dungeons and dragons; others are representational browser-based games that work through the phone's native browser; and the rest are hardly nothing more than a few dots on the screen and impressionistic gameplay.

Still, they are MMOs. I love having access to them, and over the last year I have actually grown to love simple, clever design and basic artwork over almost anything else. Forget Guild Wars 2; we'll hear enough about that to make us choke. Sure, it might be a fun game, but I'm a tech guy from the Bizarro universe. I prefer to see how little tech I need to game with. I want to push the limits even lower.

Anyway, it's springtime here in Texas, so it's time to clean out all sorts of crap from my life. I organize all of my hundreds of songs, films, movies and art pieces and get my digital life in order as well. This process includes tweaking my current line-up of basic technology and downloading any updates for the games that exist on those devices. It's time to cull the weak and glorify the wonderful.

Continue reading MMObility: The 16 MMOs in my pocket

MassivelyMMObility: The 16 MMOs in my pocket originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapplebeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddark-legendsdie2niteelemental-knights-online-the-worldempire-onlinefeaturedglitchHTC-inspireillyriadillyriad-gamesIOSiphoneMMObilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoOnLiveopinionorder-and-chaos-onlineparallel-kingdomperbluephonepocket-legendssmartphonespacetime-studiosstar-legendsstewart-butterfieldthe-infinite-blacktibiaMEtiny-specktraviantraviansVendetta-Onlinewarspear-onlineworld-of-midgardFri, 02 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Comparing the payment models of Second Life and Pocket Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-second-life-and-po/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-second-life-and-po/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/free-for-all-comparing-the-payment-models-of-second-life-and-po/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Second Life and Pocket Legends screenshots
Over the last few weeks I have been taking a look at different free-to-play payment models in the hopes of showing just how much variety there is in today's market. The term free-to-play is open to interpretation, and every time I become involved in a discussion about what the term means, I come to the same point: Show me the game and I'll tell you how "free" it is. While more titles than not can be enjoyed completely for free, it's important to note that every game needs to make money, so every developer hopes some players pay for something.

We also must note that the term "free-to-play" is almost like the term "rock-and-roll." It is a general term that can be broken into many sub-genres. In other words, don't be so uptight about the literal meaning of the word. If you are not sure, check out the game in question.

Continue reading Free for All: Comparing the payment models of Second Life and Pocket Legends

MassivelyFree for All: Comparing the payment models of Second Life and Pocket Legends originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowsercash-shopeden-eternalf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpglitchjunebudlinden-lamilmomonetizationpocket-legendssecond-lifspacetime-studiostiny-speckWorld-of-WarcraftWed, 22 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Legends' teaser trailer is to die for]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-legends-teaser-trailer-is-to-die-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-legends-teaser-trailer-is-to-die-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-legends-teaser-trailer-is-to-die-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dark Legends
We've gotten our first glimpse at the world of Spacetime Studios' Dark Legends, and it certainly sets a different tone than the mobiile MMO developer's past efforts. In this teaser trailer, a haunting rendition of House of the Rising Sun plays as blood flows back up and into the mouth of a delighted vampire.

Slated for release in the first quarter of this year on iOS, Android, and Chrome, Dark Legends is all about the supernatural underbelly of society. Players will choose a society of vampires to join and go forth to battle nasties like werewolves and zombies.

You can watch the trailer after the jump!

Continue reading Dark Legends' teaser trailer is to die for

MassivelyDark Legends' teaser trailer is to die for originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bosoms-galoredark-legendsf2pfree-to-playhouse-of-the-rising-sunspacetime-studiosteaser-trailertrailervampirevampiresvideovideoswerewolveszombiesWed, 15 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spacetime's Dark Legends mobile vampire MMO available Q1 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/spacetimes-dark-legends-mobile-vampire-mmo-available-q1-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/spacetimes-dark-legends-mobile-vampire-mmo-available-q1-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/spacetimes-dark-legends-mobile-vampire-mmo-available-q1-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Spacetime Studios logo - Dudes, pls release some Dark Legends assets
We've reported previously on Spacetime Studios' new Dark Legends vampire MMO, but today we've got a launch window for you. The game will be available in the first quarter of 2012, and it represents the latest entry in the company's mobile Legends series which includes Pocket Legends and Star Legends.

Dark Legends features new gameplay tweaks, including more action via charge attacks and the ability to drain foes. There's also more of a focus on narrative thanks to something Spacetime calls an "interactive storybook" made from both missions and cutscenes. More info will be released at this year's Game Developer's Conference in early March.

[Source: Spacetime Studios press release]

MassivelySpacetime's Dark Legends mobile vampire MMO available Q1 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualcharge-mechanicsdark-legendsdrain-mechanicsf2pfantasyfree-to-playhorrorlegends-seriesmobilespacetimespacetime-studiosThu, 26 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spacetime Studios working on new mobile MMO Dark Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/spacetime-studios-working-on-new-mobile-mmo-dark-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/spacetime-studios-working-on-new-mobile-mmo-dark-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/spacetime-studios-working-on-new-mobile-mmo-dark-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dark Legends logo
Spacetime Studios, the developer of popular mobile MMO titles Pocket Legends and Star Legends, has announced that it has begun work on a new mobile game following the Legends format. The new title, about which we know virtually nothing aside from the fact that it exists, is called Dark Legends. Ominous, right? DroidGamers reports that Spacetime Studios CEO Gary Gattis has stated that "Dark Legends will be a bit of a departure from the formula that Pocket Legends established as we innovate on lessons learned." So there's clearly a new twist to the studio's standard gameplay, but we'll just have to wait and see what that twist may be.

MassivelySpacetime Studios working on new mobile MMO Dark Legends originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-legendsdroidf2pfree-to-playgary-gattismobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmospocket-legendsspacetime-studiosstar-legendsTue, 03 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: The year in mobile]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/mmobility-the-year-in-mobile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/mmobility-the-year-in-mobile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/mmobility-the-year-in-mobile/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

What a year, huh? We gamers have seen a lot of changes, but especially in the mobile market. New devices came and went, technologies spread out even further in the world, and MMO gaming established itself on the smallest screens possible. Of course, the mobile market is not as large as the standard MMO market, but it is definitely growing. As more devices appear, more players come to fill up the games.

Our phones are not what they used to be, even five years ago. They are now truly tiny and powerful computing devices that are always connected. A player can literally live all of his digital life on one small device. If we look at the laptop and netbook market, we see even more growth and power. All of these devices need games to play on them, and MMOs fit perfectly into the mobile lifestyle.

Click past the cut and I'll recap many of the best stories from Massively's mobile coverage!

Continue reading MMObility: The year in mobile

MassivelyMMObility: The year in mobile originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedchromeconquer-onlineempire-onlinef2pfacebookfeaturedfleckfree-to-playftpGameloftglitchgraal-onlinehotdog-studiohphp-touchpadIOSipadiphoneMMObilitymobilenc-softOnLiveorder-and-chaos-onlinepocket-legendsself-aware-gamesshadow-citiesspacetime-studiosstar-legendsstewart-butterfieldtiny-speckworld-of-magicWorld-of-WarcraftyslandiaFri, 30 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The first annual Frindie Awards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/free-for-all-the-first-annual-frindie-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/free-for-all-the-first-annual-frindie-awards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/free-for-all-the-first-annual-frindie-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Welcome, fair readers, to the first annual Free for All Frindie awards. I'm hoping that these awards not only serve to point potential players to some great new games to try but illustrate my particular gaming tastes. Sometimes it's hard to explain to people just how I keep up with so many titles and still manage to stay loyal to my "home" games, games that I am simply in love with and return to pretty much every day.

So as you read my choices, bear in mind that these are based on my opinions from my year of gaming and from my list of favorites. It's also important to note that not all of my favorites were released this year. Some of them are downright ancient games compared to the rest of the young MMO market, but as long as they released a significant amount of content in 2011, I considered them. To me, expansions and a series of patches can equal a brand-new release. Some games release so much new content per year that they might as well have been released again.

So click past the cut to see my favorites from the market of free-to-play, indie and browser-based gaming. Be sure to leave your picks in the comments section!

Continue reading Free for All: The first annual Frindie Awards

MassivelyFree for All: The first annual Frindie Awards originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesbeau-hindmandie2niteeden-eternalf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfrindiefrindie-awardsfrindiesftpglitchjagexkingsisle-entertainmentmotion-twinpocket-legendsrunescapespacetime-studiosspiral-knightsthree-rings-designtiny-speckVendetta-Onlinewizard101Wed, 28 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Legends adds new Crusade of Chaos campaign, Winter Festival]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/star-legends-adds-new-crusade-of-chaos-campaign-winter-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/star-legends-adds-new-crusade-of-chaos-campaign-winter-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/star-legends-adds-new-crusade-of-chaos-campaign-winter-festival/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Star Legends - combat gameplay
If you're looking for some new mobile MMO content to fill out your holiday week, Spacetime Studios has added a new campaign to its Star Legends title. The Crusade of Chaos, Part I will send you adventuring to the planet Volaria in search of its missing governor. The update features new legendary gear, new bosses, and a bonus capture-the-flag map. Crusade of Chaos is intended for players between level 35 and 40.

Star Legends' Winter Festival is also ongoing, and it boasts "holiday trees, snowflakes, a robo reindeer, and a new dungeon with some icy cool loot," according to the latest Spacetime email blast. Sound good? Then take a look at the Winter Festival preview video that we've embedded for you after the break.

[Source: Spacetime press release]

Continue reading Star Legends adds new Crusade of Chaos campaign, Winter Festival

MassivelyStar Legends adds new Crusade of Chaos campaign, Winter Festival originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crusade-of-chaosf2pfree-to-playsci-fispacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendstrailervideowinter-festivalWed, 28 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Simplifying design for the mobile market]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/mmobility-simplifying-design-for-the-mobile-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/mmobility-simplifying-design-for-the-mobile-market/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/mmobility-simplifying-design-for-the-mobile-market/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Whenever I write up something about a smartphone MMO, one of the most common complaints I hear is this: "If I wanted to play a game for several hours, I would sit at my gaming desktop." While this is true for many players, it is also true that games like Star Legends and Pocket Legends by Spacetime Studios have met with a lot of success. The developers were surprised to find that players were more than willing to sit for several hours while playing the games on their tiny screens.

Still, there is a lot of truth to the complaints about smartphone MMOs. An MMO is typically something a player wants to get lost in. We commonly refer to it as "immersion," but really we're just talking about being sucked into the ideas and design of a title. If you have found yourself daydreaming about a game while at work, you were "immersed."

I would argue that this type of deep immersion is very possible on the smaller screens of smartphones and tablets. However, in order to achieve it more commonly, developers might have to adjust many of their designs and theories. Click past the cut and we'll discuss it!

Continue reading MMObility: Simplifying design for the mobile market

MassivelyMMObility: Simplifying design for the mobile market originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsbeau-hindmanEQ2EverQuest-2everquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfleckMMObilitymobilemobile-mmomobile-mmospocket-legendssmartphonesmartphone-appsmartphone-mmoSOEspacetime-studiosstar-legendstheres-an-app-for-thatwizard-101wizard101wizardbloxFri, 23 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Pocket Legends and Star Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/rise-and-shiny-recap-pocket-legends-and-star-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/rise-and-shiny-recap-pocket-legends-and-star-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/rise-and-shiny-recap-pocket-legends-and-star-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Star Legends screenshot
This week my job was a bit harder than it usually is. This week I had to revisit Pocket Legends and Star Legends, the entirety of the Spacetime Studios lineup, in order to catch the updates and differences since both games were recently adapted to play within the Chrome browser.

See, the device that you play an MMO on does make a difference. While I haven't found many players who have an issue with moving up to a finer machine with a larger screen, I almost always receive a few comments in any of my mobile MMO columns about the lack of fun involved with playing anything on a screen that will fit in your hand. While I understand the difficulty in downgrading your monitor size, the mobile market's reception of Pocket Legends surprised even the developer. People are playing it, for many hours, on screens that are very small.

But now we have the ability to play it in our browser. Does it make a difference in the experience? Click past the cut and I'll let you know.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Pocket Legends and Star Legends

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Pocket Legends and Star Legends originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddungeon-fighter-onlinefeaturedlivestreammobilemobile-mmonexonpocket-legendsrise-and-shinyside-scrollingsmartphonespacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsvideovideosWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 18 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Fantasy Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/rise-and-shiny-recap-fantasy-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/rise-and-shiny-recap-fantasy-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/11/rise-and-shiny-recap-fantasy-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Fantasy Online screenshot
This week I decided to check out Fantasy Online, an extremely indie browser-based MMORPG by Pixelated Games. I've had my eye on it for a while but hadn't yet taken a chance on it. I liked the 8bit style of the game, but to be honest there are so many 8bit stylings going on right now (could it be more hip?) that it sort of all blends together into one pixelated mess. I have a buddy who makes 8bit music, t-shirts have featured 8bit designs for a while, and entire generations of gamers who never played the original games that the style is based on are diving head-first into the world of primitive graphics. Let's just say it's very popular.

What are the advantages of making a game that looks like it came from 1985? Someone once pointed out to me that an indie developer might have an easier time making a game that doesn't require state-of-the-art graphics. Good point. 8bit is sort of instant indie cred, as well. Just ask Notch of Minecraft fame.

Fantasy Online is more than just 8bit graphics, though, so allow me to fill you in on the details. Click past the cut!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Fantasy Online

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Fantasy Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 11 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowser-basedf2pfantasy-onlinefeaturedfree-to-playftpindependentIndiepixelated-gamespocket-legendsrise-and-shinyspacetime-studiosstar-legendsWorld-of-WarcraftwowSun, 11 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spacetime announces industry-first cross-platform implementation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/spacetime-announces-industry-first-cross-platform-implementation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/spacetime-announces-industry-first-cross-platform-implementation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/spacetime-announces-industry-first-cross-platform-implementation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Pocket Legends wallpaper
If you've ever wondered about the feasibility of cross-platform MMOs, Spacetime Studios is here to tell you that it's a reality. The company announced an industry first earlier today when it removed the barriers between players who use different devices and operating systems.

The company's Pocket Legends and Star Legends mobile MMOs share a single global server, and access to said server is now open to users of desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets.

"There have always been technical walls between players on different platforms," said CEO Gary Gattis. "Now, people are free to play on the device they choose with anyone, anywhere, anytime, whether they are at home or on-the-go."

[Source: Spacetime press release]

MassivelySpacetime announces industry-first cross-platform implementation originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cross-platformcross-platform-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playgary-gattismobilepocket-legendssci-fisingle-serversmart-phonesspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendstabletsThu, 08 Dec 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you play any mobile MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/the-daily-grind-do-you-play-any-mobile-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/the-daily-grind-do-you-play-any-mobile-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/26/the-daily-grind-do-you-play-any-mobile-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Pocket Legends -- Screenshot originally submitted to One Shots by Mark S.
A guildie of mine and I were discussing phones this week, and we came to the joint conclusion that for us, mobile gaming, especially the mobile MMO market, is no draw at all when it comes to our phone selection. Unlike Beau, who writes Massively's mobile gaming column, MMObility, I don't relish the thought of playing any serious MMO while peering at a tiny screen or trying to make a character run around with an awkward swipe of my finger. I'll play a little single-player time-waster to, well, waste time, but deep gaming is reserved for a big comfy chair and a jumbo-sized screen. I certainly wouldn't tailor a phone or slate purchase around gaming.

And yet the mobile gaming market is exploding, so someone out there must be playing these wee little MMOs, like Pocket Legends, shown in tablet form in the above screenshot. In fact, these games might just be the perfect snack while you're trying to surreptitiously get your game on at family holiday events or while waiting in an endless shopping line. So are you a mobile MMO gamer? And if so, what mobile MMOs do you play?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you play any mobile MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgmobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonepocket-legendsslatesmartphonespacetimespacetime-studiostablettdgthe-daily-grindSat, 26 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pocket Legends launches the Mount Fang expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/pocket-legends-launches-the-mount-fang-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/pocket-legends-launches-the-mount-fang-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/pocket-legends-launches-the-mount-fang-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Who knows, you might even see this guy.
It's time for another update for one of the first MMOs on the go, Pocket Legends. Mount Fang, the latest expansion, brings with it an increase in the level cap to 66 as well as a reduction in the experience curve across the board. If you're at the level cap, you can shoot for the next tier, but the reduction in the curve ensures that players at any level can benefit from the update.

There's more to the update than just leveling, however; players will be given access to a new free campaign, Mount Fang, that starts at level 59 and provides new monsters, quests, and rewards. And of course, there are new vanity items in the cash shop as well as a special set of cosmetic armor for players who hit 66 before the next cap adjustment. If you've been enjoying the game on your mobile device of choice, download the expansion and get into the mix.

MassivelyPocket Legends launches the Mount Fang expansion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playlevel-capslevelinglevelsmobilemobile-mmosmount-fangpatchespocket-legendspocket-legends-mount-fangspacetime-studiosupdatesMon, 14 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Best starter MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/the-perfect-ten-best-starter-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/the-perfect-ten-best-starter-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/the-perfect-ten-best-starter-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
I think it's tremendously easy for experienced MMO players to completely forget what it was like getting started in this genre. It's natural to assume that everyone around you cut their teeth on the same games and in the same ways you did, even though this is completely ridiculous when you give it any real thought.

The truth is that MMOs are often very intimidating to the newcomer, and a bad first impression can push a player away for life. You have to contend with a typically busy user interface, you have to master keys and mouse buttons all over the place, you have to learn the lingo, you have to pick up skills on how to survive, and you have to do all of this almost all at once or risk feeling completely lost. This is why many MMO studios place such a priority on an excellent, welcoming tutorial experience.

I can relate to the newbie because my first MMO was Anarchy Online. I've never felt so out of my depth than when I played that back in 2002, and I don't think I ever quite understood it all before I left. My second MMO, City of Heroes, was far more friendly to my newbish soul, and it was smooth sailing from there on out.

For today's Perfect Ten, I want to highlight MMOs that I feel would be the best for a completely new player to experience. These are titles that combine a welcoming beginner journey, intuitive controls, a helpful community, and enough similarities with other video games to help the transition.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Best starter MMOs

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Best starter MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineblizzardchampions-onlinecity-of-heroescrypticdragon-nestfeaturedfree-realmsguild-warsmr-rogersperfect-10perfect-tenpocket-legendsriftrunescapespacetime-studiosstar-legendsthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenwizard101world-of-warcraftwowThu, 20 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC Online 2011: Spacetime Studios talks Star Legends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/gdc-austin-2011-spacetime-studios-talks-star-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/gdc-austin-2011-spacetime-studios-talks-star-legends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/gdc-austin-2011-spacetime-studios-talks-star-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Star Legends -- GDC Online 2011
Spacetime Studios is quickly establishing itself as a leading name in the mobile MMO market. Its two titles, Pocket Legends and Star Legends, have proven extremely popular choices for players who want to get their MMO fix on the go, and this week at GDC Online, our own Beau Hindman got to have a chat with the games' creators about what's on the horizon.

The big news is Star Legends' upcoming Google Chrome release. That's right, the truly hardcore Star Legends players will soon be able to play from the comfort of their home computers. With the upcoming release of Chrome 15, the title will be available in the browser's app store. But what if you've got a bunch of phone-exclusive friends without whom your game experience just wouldn't be complete? Not to worry! PC and mobile players will inhabit the same server, so you don't have to leave your friends behind for the comfort of your mouse and keyboard.

What else is coming for the mobile title? Head past the cut for the full scoop.

Continue reading GDC Online 2011: Spacetime Studios talks Star Legends

MassivelyGDC Online 2011: Spacetime Studios talks Star Legends originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbrowserbrowser-basedchromef2pfree-to-playgdcgdc-onlinegdc-online-2011google-chromeiosmobilepocket-legendssloucho-productionsspacetime-studiosstar-legendsWed, 12 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pocket Legends goes under the big top with Nuri's Hallows]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/pocket-legends-goes-under-the-big-top-with-nuris-hallows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/pocket-legends-goes-under-the-big-top-with-nuris-hallows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/pocket-legends-goes-under-the-big-top-with-nuris-hallows/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Pocket Legends
Pocket Legends, the pint-sized popular MMO with charm and quirkiness to spare, is enlisting players for a stint at the circus. While some of us may indeed qualify to join the sideshow freaks, Spacetime Studios is hoping that adventurers will instead help lift the curse of an unfortunate traveling circus.

With the recently released Nuri's Hallows campaign pack, players can now push up to level 60 as they investigate the cursed circus and its fascinating inhabitants. Amidst fighting the Strongman or navigating the twisted passageways of the House of Pain, there's tons of new loot to be found. Best of all, Spacetime is offering this campaign for free.

Pocket Legends is available on iOS devices, and you can watch the trailer for Nuri's Hallows after the jump. Remember, kids, all the best things in life come after the jump!

Continue reading Pocket Legends goes under the big top with Nuri's Hallows

MassivelyPocket Legends goes under the big top with Nuri's Hallows originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>big-topcampaigncircuscontent-patchcontent-updateexpansionf2pfreefree-to-playhouse-of-painnuris-hallowspatchpocket-legendsspacetimespacetime-studiosstrongmantrailerupdatevideoFri, 02 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple releases Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles to the app store]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/apple-releases-star-legends-the-blackstar-chronicles-to-the-app/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/apple-releases-star-legends-the-blackstar-chronicles-to-the-app/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/apple-releases-star-legends-the-blackstar-chronicles-to-the-app/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Star Legends
It's been a long time winding its way through the Apple approving process, but Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles is now available for iOS devices. The game, which is free with optional microtransaction purchases, is a universal app, so it will play on the iPod Touch, iPhone and iPad.

Apple users have had to wait significantly longer to get their hands on Star Legends than Android players, as the Android version was released much earlier this month. Spacetime Studios promises gamers that a "majority" of the content of the game is completely free-to-play, and characters can reach the level cap without having to pay a dime.

If you're interested in our impressions of this sci-fi blastathon, check out our Rise and Shiny Recap of Star Legends!

Gallery: Star Legends

MassivelyApple releases Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles to the app store originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapp-storeappleapple-storeblackstarf2pfree-to-playiosipadiphoneipod-touchituneslaunchmobilemobile-mmoreleaserise-and-shinyspacetime-studiosstar-legendsstar-legends-the-blackstar-chroniclesFri, 26 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sci-fi MMO Star Legends launches on the Android OS]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/star-legends-a-sci-fi-mmo-launches-into-the-android-os/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/star-legends-a-sci-fi-mmo-launches-into-the-android-os/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/star-legends-a-sci-fi-mmo-launches-into-the-android-os/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Legends
Spacetime Studios, creator of the mobile MMO Pocket Legends, stepped into the science fiction realm with the launch of its latest MMO Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles. Feeding off the frenzy of the mobile platform, Star Legends debuted on the Android OS first and can be downloaded at the Android Market or VCAST. Chief Vision Officer Cinco Barnes commented on why the publisher chose to launch on Android first in a recent press release:
"When we launched Pocket Legends on Android we were blown away by the response from the community. Android has since become the leading revenue driver and our primary focus. It is so easy to publish apps on their Market that it became a no-brainer for us to flip the standard mobile game strategy on its head and launch on Android before any other OS."
Star Legends boasts hours of gameplay -- via wi-fi, Edge, 3G, or 4G connections on Android 2.0 and above mobile devices -- with three customizable classes, character progression, guilds, and chat. These items, Spacetime says, are usually reserved for PC MMOs.

Screenshots of this innovative game are displayed below, and the brief trailer for the game is tucked behind the break!

Gallery: Star Legends

Continue reading Sci-fi MMO Star Legends launches on the Android OS

MassivelySci-fi MMO Star Legends launches on the Android OS originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid-marketandroid-oscinco-barneslaunchesmobilemobile-gamesmobile-MMOpocket-legendsspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsstar-legends-the-blackstar-chroniclestrailervcastvideoThu, 11 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/17/rise-and-shiny-recap-star-legends-the-blackstar-chronicles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/17/rise-and-shiny-recap-star-legends-the-blackstar-chronicles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/17/rise-and-shiny-recap-star-legends-the-blackstar-chronicles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Spacetime Studios, makers of the current heavyweight champion of the mobile world Pocket Legends, has expanded its lineup by adding Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles. I was more excited about this title than almost any other that was announced this year -- and for good reason. Pocket Legends proved that a real mobile MMO complete with a persistent world, real-time chat and multiplayer interaction is possible. Over this last year the developers have added on a lot of new options and kept the game moving forward. If their new game was going to follow the same patch as Pocket Legends, then more power to Spacetime.

At the same time, would they be able to overcome or improve some of the basic issues that comes with mobile gaming? And what exactly was the goal of making a second mobile MMO if a lot of your core design would remain the same... and a lot of your players would as well?

Click past the cut and I'll tell you what I found this week!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbig-brothers-big-sistersblackstarf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpmobilepocket-legendsrise-and-shinysmartphonespacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsstar-legends-the-blackstar-chroniclesstar-warsSun, 17 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Legends launches beta on Verizon's V CAST]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/star-legends-launches-beta-on-verizons-v-cast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/star-legends-launches-beta-on-verizons-v-cast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/star-legends-launches-beta-on-verizons-v-cast/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

If you're a mobile gamer who also happens to be a Verizon user, it seems that you're in luck. Spacetime Studios -- maker of the immensely popular Pocket Legends -- announced today that its new mobile MMO, Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles has begun beta testing exclusively on Verizon's V CAST. Fear not, because we have a spiffy trailer to help players get their space-legs.

The game takes place in the far-off 41st century, and puts players in the space-faring shoes of one of three classes: Commando, Engineer, or Operative. Players then "quest for adventure, fame and fortune," but it won't be simple, as "players must battle harsh, alien environments, monstrous, unthinking aliens, and the greed and ambition of their rivals." Star Legends is free-to-play with microtransactions. If it sounds like your idea of a good time -- and if you have an Android phone on the Verizon network -- you can give the game a go on Verizon's V CAST, or check out more information at the official site. And don't forget to check out the trailer past the cut!

Gallery: Star Legends

Continue reading Star Legends launches beta on Verizon's V CAST

MassivelyStar Legends launches beta on Verizon's V CAST originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbetaf2pfree-to-playmobile-mmosci-fispacetime-studiosstar-legendsstar-legends-the-blackstar-chroniclesv-castverizonverizon-v-castWed, 06 Jul 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pocket Legends teams up with Sony for Xperia PLAY event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/19/pocket-legends-teams-up-with-sony-for-xperia-play-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/19/pocket-legends-teams-up-with-sony-for-xperia-play-event/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/19/pocket-legends-teams-up-with-sony-for-xperia-play-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Spacetime Studios and Sony recently teamed up to put on a unique event inside Spacetime's Pocket Legends mobile MMO. A new press release touts the "world's first in-game mobile flash mob," which happened during this month's E3 convention in Los Angeles.

Pocket Legends players took part in a "Find the Droid" competition in which an Android mascot would make its way through the game world while enterprising players gave chase. The promotion was designed to draw attention to the new Sony Xperia PLAY platform, and Spacetime gave away more than 11,000 themed vanity items during the course of the event.

Pocket Legends, the world's largest mobile MMO in terms of downloads (4 million and counting), will be expanding to the Android-powered Xperia PLAY later this summer.

MassivelyPocket Legends teams up with Sony for Xperia PLAY event originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 19 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddroidf2pfantasyfree-to-playmobilemobile-mmopocket-legendspress-releasesonyspacetimespacetime-studiosxperiaxperia-playSun, 19 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Just how mobile was E3?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/mmobility-just-how-mobile-was-e3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/mmobility-just-how-mobile-was-e3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/14/mmobility-just-how-mobile-was-e3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

E3 is a massive, loud conglomeration of lights, people, and stress. I spent most of my time there walking from one end to another, trying to find a certain booth or meeting room. Luckily for me, I am in pretty good shape and felt just fine the entire time, despite the fact that I had little to eat, and worse yet, little water. At home I drink water non-stop... no soda, no coffee. Still, it was a blast. Working like that really makes a tiny reporter like yours truly feel wonderful. Conversations with developers can be very, very interesting if games are what you love.

And there were games. A ton of games. A bunch. A lot. Even then, I knew the feeling that was coming over me, the familiar feeling of stumbling into a toy store or comic shop to look for goodies. I was in hog heaven but needed to find my particular fix. I needed indie, tiny or strange games. Games that ran on a toaster but worked well, browser games that would impress me, or phone games that would continue to destroy the idea that immersive, fun gameplay cannot be done on a portable device.

Did I find what I was looking for? Oh, hell yes I did. Click past the cut and I will tell you all about it.

Continue reading MMObility: Just how mobile was E3?

MassivelyMMObility: Just how mobile was E3? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american-chopperbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-based-MMOsf2pfaxion-onlinefeaturedfleckfree-to-playftpgameforgegamigoglobal-agendaillyriadjagged-alliance-onlineMMObilitynivalperfect-world-entertainmentpocket-legendsprime-worldrusty-heartssony-vitaspacetime-studiosstar-legendsstar-trek-infinite-spaceTurn-basedufo-onlineTue, 14 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2011: Spacetime Studios on the Legends franchise]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/e3-2011-spacetime-studios-on-the-legends-franchise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/e3-2011-spacetime-studios-on-the-legends-franchise/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/e3-2011-spacetime-studios-on-the-legends-franchise/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Blackstar has a new name to capitalize on the Legends brand -- it's now known as Star Legends: The Blackstar Chronicles. At this year's E3, we caught up with Spacetime Studios' Fernando Blanco to see how the revived project (as well as the company's hit Pocket Legends) is coming along.

Star Legends is only a month away from launch, and Spacetime hopes that the Pocket Legends fever will spread to its sci-fi brother. The name's been changed to communicate the studio's intent to provide an ongoing story rather than a one-shot experience. The game will launch with the first 20 levels of content, but Spacetime has grand plans to expand this much further.

Blanco gave us some of the backstory to the game: In the far future, humans are exploring the cosmos and have stumbled upon a resource-rich area. Corporations, as they are wont to do, have swooped in to exert their dominance but have come across hostile aliens in the process. War breaks out, invasions start popping up all over the place, and you're called in to clean up the mess -- and make a quick buck in the process.

Hit the jump to hear more about Star Legends' classes and gameplay!

Continue reading E3 2011: Spacetime Studios on the Legends franchise

MassivelyE3 2011: Spacetime Studios on the Legends franchise originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidarcherbetablackstarblackstar-mmocommandodark-legendsdroide3e3-2011engineerf2pfeaturedFernando-Blancoflash-mobfree-to-playhorrormagemobile-mmooperativepocket-legendspreviewpreviewspromotionspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-legendsverizonwarriorwesternFri, 10 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spacetime adds Sandstone Caves to Pocket Legends, extends free content offer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/spacetime-adds-sandstone-caves-to-pocket-legends-extends-free-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/spacetime-adds-sandstone-caves-to-pocket-legends-extends-free-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/spacetime-adds-sandstone-caves-to-pocket-legends-extends-free-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Free stuff is the rallying cry of Spacetime Studios, developer of the renowned Pocket Legends mobile MMORPG. Last month we told you about the game's anniversary promotion, which featured free access to a boat-load of content zones including Balefort Castle, the Fathom Crypts, and the Alien Oasis Trilogy.

Today we're happy to report that Spacetime has donned its generosity hat and is making these (and a few other) areas free forever. But wait, there's more! Spacetime is also introducing a brand-new Pocket Legends zone called the Sandstone Caves. The caves are "littered with precious stones -- and the broken bones of the foolish who have tried to take them." If that's not a dare, we don't know what is, and you'll want to level your character up a bit to ensure she's fit to challenge the 20 - 25 zone.

You can learn more about the Sandstone Caves, free content, and Pocket Legends itself at the game's official website.

MassivelySpacetime adds Sandstone Caves to Pocket Legends, extends free content offer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-contentfree-to-playfree-zonesmobilemobile-mmopocket-legendspromotionssandstone-cavesspacetimespacetime-studiosMon, 02 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Survival on a desert island]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/mmobility-survival-on-a-desert-island/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/mmobility-survival-on-a-desert-island/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/mmobility-survival-on-a-desert-island/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

We've all played that age-old game of pondering what we might take with us on an endless trip to a desert island. What music would you bring? Whom would you bring with you? What food would you bring, if you could choose only one food? I've recently been thinking about this old game again, mainly because of my obsession with portability and all-in-one devices. Which device would I bring with me to that island, if I had to choose? (Let's forget the fact that I could just make a call or otherwise contact the authorities to rescue me off the island!)

The ultimate question is this: Which MMO would I bring installed on that device? Or, going a bit further, which apps or other downloads would I include? Once I started asking, my fantasy turned into somewhat of a challenge to myself: Could I survive a week without any access to a desktop at all? Could I write, play, and otherwise continue to do my job with only a pocket-sized device?

Join me past the cut and let's see what I might include on this trip.

Continue reading MMObility: Survival on a desert island

MassivelyMMObility: Survival on a desert island originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbrowserfeaturedgooglegoogle-docsillyriadiosMMObilitymobilemobilitymoving-playeroprahoprah winfreyOprahWinfreyouter-empirespandoraphonephonespocket-legendssketchbook-proskypesmartphonespacetime-studiosWorld-of-WarcraftyslandiaTue, 26 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST