Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Free-to-play shopping strategies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-shopping-strategies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-shopping-strategies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-shopping-strategies/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Perfect Ten
"Nothing is ever truly free," my grizzled Uncle Trigger once told me. "So you got to pay for that there air! Pony up, boy!"

While Uncle Trigger was overlooking a few aspects of this philosophy, the sentiment is an important one to grasp, especially when it comes to the growing wave of free-to-play MMOs. Even though the first word is "free," it should be followed up with several paragraphs of tiny lawyer disclaimers that basically say, "Nevertheless, the studio is going to look for other ways to tempt you out of your hard-earned cash." F2P is often funded by microtransactions, which offer players some variety in how they customize their game experience at the expense of a subscription's simplicity. It's often not better or worse; it's just different.

Because nothing is ever truly free, and because F2P is loaded with more shopping options than a Walmart supercenter, being a savvy customer is more vital than ever. Anyone who's waded into a F2P store probably has experienced buyer's regret due to a hasty or uninformed purchase, not to mention those who end up going broke because of poor impulse control. So today I'm going to get downright practical and offer up 10 strategies that will safeguard and strengthen your F2P shopping trips (also, random plug for Beau's Free For All column in the hopes that he doesn't get mad I'm treading on his territory here!).

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Free-to-play shopping strategies

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Free-to-play shopping strategies originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelcash-shopcash-storecryptic-pointsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhumorin-game-storeitem-shopitem-storelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromicrotransactionsopinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenrise-of-isengardroundupshopping-strategiessoestation-cashthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listturbineturbine-pointsThu, 08 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Plat, loot, and the morality of cash]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/the-tattered-notebook-plat-loot-and-the-morality-of-cash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/the-tattered-notebook-plat-loot-and-the-morality-of-cash/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/the-tattered-notebook-plat-loot-and-the-morality-of-cash/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EQII gold
There's a dirty little secret going on in EverQuest II, and every now and then it bubbles up to the surface in forum complaints from players. With the arrival of Station Cash, the Marketplace, and Legends of Norrath cards, players have worked out a way to buy in-game coin with real money, without fear of getting banned. And with the transition to free-to-play, it seems like that practice has grown even more.

The problem is that there are several things that factor into the plat-for-cash scenario, so it's impossible to find a quick fix. Are we at a point that SOE should just put plat on the marketplace and be done with it? Let's look at a few reasons for and against it.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Plat, loot, and the morality of cash

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Plat, loot, and the morality of cash originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 21 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-georgesoneqeq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playkaren-bryanopinionplat-for-cashplexrmtselling-loot-rightssoesony-online-entertainmentstation-cashtattered-notebookthe-tattered-notebookSat, 21 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II adds player wings, yes really]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/everquest-ii-adds-player-wings-yes-really/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/everquest-ii-adds-player-wings-yes-really/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/everquest-ii-adds-player-wings-yes-really/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - Players with wings, yes, really
EverQuest II is one of the most feature-rich MMOs in existence. One of the few things it doesn't didn't have is the ability for players to sprout wings and take to the skies. Oh sure, there are some pretty spiffy flying mounts, and there is even a quest line that grants Fae and Arasai avatars the ability to use their faerie wings for something other than looks.

Today, though, Sony Online Entertainment is raising the bar via new sets of wings that are available to any character (of any race). These aren't just crappy looking social add-ons, either, but slickly animated functional wings on par with those in Aion or Perfect World. The catch is that they're only available in the Station Cash marketplace, and they'll set you back 1,950 points (about 20 bucks). Check out the video after the break for a brief demonstration. Also keep in mind that you'll need a character of level 85 or higher to use them.

[Source: SOE press release]

Continue reading EverQuest II adds player wings, yes really

MassivelyEverQuest II adds player wings, yes really originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatar-flightcash-shopeq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyflightflyingflying-mountsfree-to-playhuhitem-storesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashvideowingsWed, 11 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How frugal are you in F2P games?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/the-daily-grind-how-frugal-are-you-in-f2p-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/the-daily-grind-how-frugal-are-you-in-f2p-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/the-daily-grind-how-frugal-are-you-in-f2p-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Daily Grind
Those of you who shun free-to-play titles or are determined to never spend a single red cent in them are dismissed from today's discussion. But for those of you who do spend money in F2P MMOs -- and by all accounts, that's quite a few of you out there -- I'm curious just how frugal you are with the money you spend.

I know that SOE players often hold back from registering Station Cash cards until the studio does a double- or triple-point day, and Turbine's frequently put its in-game stock on sale for both Lord of the Rings Online and Dungeons and Dragons Online. Around the holidays or during special anniversaries, players can also snag some good deals.

So do you wait for certain items and unlocks to go on sale, or are you wealthy and/or impatient enough to simply go for it when you want them? Do you look for specials with an eagle eye? Jump on top of bonus in-game currency days? Clip coupons? Just how far do you stretch your gaming dollar?

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 frugal are you in F2P games? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clip-couponscouponcouponsddodealdealsdiscussiondungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfree-to-playfrugalfrugaliciousfrugalitylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionpromotionssalesalessoesony-online-entertainmentspecialspecialsstation-cashtdgthe-daily-grindturbineturbine-entertainmentWed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE offers triple Station Cash for one day only]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/soe-offers-triple-station-cash-for-one-day-only/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/soe-offers-triple-station-cash-for-one-day-only/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/soe-offers-triple-station-cash-for-one-day-only/#commentsFiled under: , ,

SOE
Are you hanging onto a Sony Online Entertainment game card? Then today's the day you want to register that baby! SOE announced that for today and today only it is running one of its rare Triple Station Cash days -- but the offer ends at 3:00 a.m. EST tomorrow morning.

Triple Station Cash works much like you'd imagine: Any game card redeemed or Station Cash purchased will register as three times that amount. So that 1000 Station Cash code you've got lying around is now worth 3000 points.

Station Cash is SOE's multi-game currency that's used to purchase premium benefits, in-game items, and game time.

This promotion is part of SOE's "12 Days of Holidays," in which the company is offering a different promotion or activity every day through Christmas Eve.

MassivelySOE offers triple Station Cash for one day only originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 17 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-holidayscurrencydealgame-currencyin-game-currencypromotionscsoesony-online-entertainmentstation-cashtriple-station-cashtriple-station-cash-daySat, 17 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II grandfathers in established characters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/everquest-ii-grandfathers-in-established-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/everquest-ii-grandfathers-in-established-characters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/everquest-ii-grandfathers-in-established-characters/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EQII
EverQuest II players got a pleasant surprise today, as Executive Producer Dave Georgeson announced that any and all characters created prior to Age of Discovery's launch would be grandfathered into the game. This means that any characters that were locked due to a player going from, say, subscription to free-to-play are now available. The company is also refunding any Station Cash points spent to unlock these characters following the expansion's release.

From the full announcement on the EQII forums:
But, we don't really want to force those decisions on returning players. It's not a fun experience to come back to something that seemed exciting (F2P) and then get hit with a bill as soon as you arrive, just for the privilege of using your current characters.

So here's what we're going to do.

*Every* character that was created before 12/06/2011 at 12:01 a.m. will be grandfathered in without race or class restriction. This means that regardless of your membership level, you will be able to play any character created before 12/6 without paying for race- or class-pack unlocks.

For any player that previously subscribed to EQII Live servers, or as a Gold or Platinum member on EQ2X, we will also refund all the class/race pack purchases made after 12/06/2011 at 12:01 am and before the time of this posting (12/08/2011, 4:30pm) so that no one loses any SC due to this change.

MassivelyEverQuest II grandfathers in established characters originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-discoveryclassclass-unlocksdave-georgesoneqiieverquest-iif2pfree-to-playgrandfathergrandfatheredsmokejumpersoesony-online-entertainmentstation-cashThu, 08 Dec 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II adds dungeon finder, double Station Cash weekend on tap for Europe]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/everquest-ii-adds-dungeon-finder-double-station-cash-weekend-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - ratonga and tier'dal in Nektropos Castle
Love it or loathe it, the increasingly popular dungeon finder mechanic has finally made its way to Norrath. Today's EverQuest II patch features a variation on the random grouping tool initially made famous in World of Warcraft.

Adventurers can queue solo or as a group by clicking the dungeon finder icon on their EQII menus, and it's worth noting that signing up for a random dungeon will net you a 25% XP boost.

Other patch details worth mentioning include a, ahem, rebalance of the Dirge mythical effect as well as a Troubador revamp. Finally, European EQII fans should be pleased to know that this weekend features a double Station Cash promotion to celebrate the availability of pre-paid SOE game cards at retailers throughout the region.

MassivelyEverQuest II adds dungeon finder, double Station Cash weekend on tap for Europe originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-station-cashdouble-station-cashdungeon-finderdungeonseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgroupingnorrathpatchpromotionsrandom-dungeonsrandom-groupingsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashxp-boostThu, 06 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Looking back at RMT through a futuristic monocle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/04/the-tattered-notebook-looking-back-at-rmt-through-a-futuristic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/04/the-tattered-notebook-looking-back-at-rmt-through-a-futuristic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/04/the-tattered-notebook-looking-back-at-rmt-through-a-futuristic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

As I logged into EverQuest II this past week, I was greeted with a promo to redeem my free festive sparker. Sorry, make that my FREE festive sparkler. Anyway, as part of the promotion, I could visit the Marketplace, scoop up my sparkler, and then use it to participate in the lighting of fireworks at the major cities in Norrath to receive place-able fireworks for my house or guild hall.

I have to say, it was an odd moment. First off, I had to pause to make sure I hadn't accidentally logged into my Free Realms account that I play with the kids because sparklers and fireworks seem more appropriate there. Second, I was trying to recall a time in EverQuest II when an in-game quest, tied to a live event no less, actually required possession of an item from the Marketplace.

In EQII, we've come a long way when it comes to cash shops and microtransactions, and EVE Online's recent controversy surrounding the Noble Exchange really puts things into perspective. In this week's Tattered Notebook, we'll look back on EQII's RMT evolution -- through EVE's ill-fated monocle.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Looking back at RMT through a futuristic monocle

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Looking back at RMT through a futuristic monocle originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopccpCCP-Gameseq2eqiieqII-extendedeveeve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-ii-extendedfeaturedfree-realmsmarketplaceMicrotransactionsmonoclemonocle-gatemonoclegatenoble-exchangeRMTsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashstation-exchangeMon, 04 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE awarding triple Station Cash, offering special Memorial Day weekend items and events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/28/soe-awarding-triple-station-cash-offering-special-memorial-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/28/soe-awarding-triple-station-cash-offering-special-memorial-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/28/soe-awarding-triple-station-cash-offering-special-memorial-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment is looking to move a bunch of its pre-paid Station Cash cards. As a result, all such cards (available at retailers including Wal-Mart and Best Buy) may be redeemed for triple the normal Station Cash points. The promotion is valid from May 27th through May 30th, and SOE is also making a few special items available in select games to celebrate the Memorial Day weekend.

EverQuest features a number of paintings for sale, EverQuest II is giving away free time-limited flying mounts, and Free Realms is selling discounted Memorial day clothing packs for 400 Station Cash. Star Wars Galaxies is throwing a "bonus everything" weekend featuring double XP, double GCW, and double a-bunch-of-other-stuff, the details of which you can find on the official SOE forums.

MassivelySOE awarding triple Station Cash, offering special Memorial Day weekend items and events originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>briberycash-shopeqeqiieverquesteverquest-2f2pfantasyfree-realmsfree-to-playpromotionssci-fisoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstation-cashstation-cash-cardsswgtriple-station-cashvanity-itemsSat, 28 May 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE reveals compensation plan for outage, says at least a few more days until services are restored]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/soe-reveals-compensation-plan-for-outage-says-at-least-a-few-mo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/soe-reveals-compensation-plan-for-outage-says-at-least-a-few-mo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/soe-reveals-compensation-plan-for-outage-says-at-least-a-few-mo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment's broken its string of the now-standard "Our games won't be up today" message to deliver substantial news about the restoration of its services and how players will be compensated. "At least a few more days" is all the studio is willing to commit to a time frame before its MMOs come back online, but at least it provides hope to the anxious players waiting to click their Station Launcher icon.

More definite, however, is the plan for how SOE will make good with its playerbase. All current SOE players will receive 30 days of game time added to their accounts plus one day for every day the system's been down. Depending on the game to which players are subscribed, SOE has a list of specific in-game items, currency, Station Cash, events and bonuses ready. This applies to both the studio's PC and PS3 titles.

Finally, all Station Account holders will be enrolled in a complimentary identity theft protection program. U.S. players will be enrolled in Debix for a year, while residents in other countries will be set up with similar services. Codes will be sent out by email for these programs, and U.S. players will need to enroll by June 28th to get the coverage.

MassivelySOE reveals compensation plan for outage, says at least a few more days until services are restored originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 May 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clone-wars-adventurescompensationdc-universe-onlinedebixeverquesteverquest-iifree-realmsin-game-eventsmake-good-planplaystation-3ps3recompensateservice-restorationsoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstation-accessstation-cashstation-passswgvanguardThu, 12 May 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE acknowledges "external intrusion" responsible for website downtime]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/soe-acknowledges-external-intrusion-responsible-for-website-do/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/soe-acknowledges-external-intrusion-responsible-for-website-do/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/23/soe-acknowledges-external-intrusion-responsible-for-website-do/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment has acknowledged an issue that has caused its MMORPGs and game-related websites to be sporadically unavailable since Thursday, April 21st. SOE's Linda "Brasse" Carlson posted on the EverQuest II forums late last night, attributing the trouble to "an external intrusion."

Users have experienced connection issues in everything from Vanguard, to EQII, to Free Realms, and EQII's main website remains inaccessible as of press time. Station Cash and account services appear to be working normally.

"As a result of an external intrusion on its system, SOE interrupted its services on April 21. Promptly upon learning of the intrusion, SOE initiated an investigation and took corrective steps to bring its games and other services back up," Carlson explained. "We are working hard on bringing all of our player sites back online, but have no ETA at this time. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for bearing with us."

MassivelySOE acknowledges "external intrusion" responsible for website downtime originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-servicesbrassedowntimeeq2eqiiEverQuest-2everquest-iiexternal-intrusionf2pfree-realmsfree-to-playhackinglinda-carlsonsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashvanguardSat, 23 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE offers bonus Station Cash for using game cards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/soe-offers-bonus-station-cash-for-using-game-cards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/soe-offers-bonus-station-cash-for-using-game-cards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/soe-offers-bonus-station-cash-for-using-game-cards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Paying for subscriptions with a credit card is definitely fast and easy, but if you're a regular Sony Online Entertainment game subscriber, you might want to consider switching to a game time card this month! As a way of rewarding players for picking up and paying with universal game cards, Sony Online Entertainment is giving players $10 worth of Station Cash (1,000 SC) just for redeeming a $15 universal game card. The nice thing about these cards? They can be redeemed for either a month's subscription to an SOE game or 1,500 Station Cash. However, to get the bonus cash, you'll have to redeem your card between 3:10 a.m. EDT (12:10 a.m. PDT) on March 17th and 2:59 a.m. on March 21st (11:59 p.m. PDT on March 20th).

Along with getting an extra Station Cash reward for using a universal game card during those days, players will be entered into SOE's Luck of the Irish sweepstakes, the details of which should be out sometime this week. We'd also note that SOE's disclaimer indicates that the promotion is only available to gamers in the United States/District of Columbia and excludes Puerto Rico and other outlying territories. Keep your eye on the forums or the SOE Facebook account for all the sweepstakes information and official rules.

MassivelySOE offers bonus Station Cash for using game cards originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuoeqeq2eq2xeqiieqiixeverquesteverquest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-ii-extendedfrfree-realmsgame-timegiveawayluck-of-the-irishplanetsidepromopssoesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstation-cashsweepstakesswgugcuniversal-game-cardsus-onlyvanguargvgMon, 14 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: How not to sell an expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/the-tattered-notebook-how-not-to-sell-an-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/the-tattered-notebook-how-not-to-sell-an-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/the-tattered-notebook-how-not-to-sell-an-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

One month.

That's all that's left before EverQuest II's new expansion, Destiny of Velious, goes live. I've been looking forward to this expansion since 2009, when rumors first emerged that there was some work on Velious content quietly going on. It's my favorite content from EverQuest, and it really marked a Golden Age for those who look back fondly at the game.

But with one month left, I'm left feeling frustrated and concerned. There's just too much silence about the expansion and too many questions left unanswered. Read on to see why the blank slate of Destiny of Velious is a troublesome sign for players.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: How not to sell an expansion

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: How not to sell an expansion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destiny-of-veliouseqEQ2EQIIeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iiexpansionsfortune-leagueLegends-of-Norrathmarketingsoesoe-fan-faireSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashveliousMon, 17 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: EverQuest II's year in review]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/the-tattered-notebook-everquest-iis-year-in-review/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/the-tattered-notebook-everquest-iis-year-in-review/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/the-tattered-notebook-everquest-iis-year-in-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


EverQuest II may be the ripe old age of six, but it certainly isn't showing signs of slowing down. With 2010 coming to a close, it's time to look back on the past year, which was marked with several major changes to the game.

Read on for The Tattered Notebook's year in review, and then share your memories of the past year in EverQuest II.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: EverQuest II's year in review

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: EverQuest II's year in review originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brenlodesert-of-flamesdestiny-of-veliousend-of-the-year-2010EQ2eq2xEQIIeverquesteverquest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-underfootEverquest2featuredplanetsidesentinels-fatesmokejumpersoesoe-eq-2soe-eq-iisony-eq-2sony-eq-iistation-cashtribes-2zOMGMon, 27 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II makes new vampire race available for purchase]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/everquest-ii-makes-new-vampire-race-available-for-purchase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/everquest-ii-makes-new-vampire-race-available-for-purchase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/everquest-ii-makes-new-vampire-race-available-for-purchase/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With all the holiday hype surrounding new MMOs, it's easy to overlook veteran titles like EverQuest II. SOE is doing its part to make sure that you don't, and one of the ways the team is keeping the six-year old title in the public eye is the introduction of the new Freeblood character race.

The blood-sucking avatars are available for purchase from the Station marketplace, or if you have a little patience, as part of your subscription fee via the winter rewards program coming in February. Regardless of when you choose to roll your vampire, you'll get a bunch of new abilities, new unarmed combat animations, and access to Freeblood-only accessories like new housing and a speed-boosting bat shapeshift ability. These accessories aren't obtainable in-game and can only be purchased with Station Cash on a Freeblood-enabled account.

MassivelyEverQuest II makes new vampire race available for purchase originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EQ2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iifreebloodnew-racenew-racial-abilitiesrmtsoestation-cashstation-storevampireThu, 23 Dec 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Updated: On the eighth day of giveaways, SOE gave to me...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/on-the-eighth-day-of-giveaways-soe-gave-to-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/on-the-eighth-day-of-giveaways-soe-gave-to-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/on-the-eighth-day-of-giveaways-soe-gave-to-me/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


[UPDATE: All winners have been selected and contacted. Congratulations!]

On the eighth day of giveaways, SOE gave to me... eight Station Cash cards!
On the seventh day of giveaways, Kingsisle gave to me... seven Epic Cards!
On the sixth day of giveaways, Nexon gave to me... six Vindictus packs!
On the fifth day of giveaways, Mythic gave to me... five upgrade codes!
On the fourth day of giveaways, ChangYou gave to me... four welcome gifts!
On the third day of giveaways, Icarus gave to me... three months of gameplay!
On the second day of giveaways, Hi-Rez gave to me... two gift packages!
On the first day of giveaways, Turbine gave to me... a lifetime VIP!
Today's giveaway is a little different -- read on! First, Sony Online Entertainment has treated us to eight Free Realms Station Cash cards, each worth 1,000 SC. Free Realms is right in the middle of the Snow Days celebration, and there are plenty of wintry treats to spend these extra Station Cash on! Second, the team has added some bonus items to make up a gift bundle for you to keep for yourself or pass to friends for the holidays: download vouchers for PSN games Crescent Pale Mist, Qlione Evolve, and Swords & Soldiers.

Finally, SOE has given us eight mystery gifts. It wouldn't be the holidays without some surprises and anticipation, would it? Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. EDT, you'll want to be watching our Twitter feed very closely -- we'll be handing out the bonus gifts from SOE on Twitter!

For now, enter for this portion of the giveaway by leaving a comment! We'll draw eight winners at random Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. EST, so check out our contest rules and best of luck!

MassivelyUpdated: On the eighth day of giveaways, SOE gave to me... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-giveawayscontestfree-realmsfree-to-playgiveawaysoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashtwitterwinter-holiday-2010winter-holiday-eventMon, 20 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: An Appeal for PLEX]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/the-tattered-notebook-an-appeal-for-plex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/the-tattered-notebook-an-appeal-for-plex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/the-tattered-notebook-an-appeal-for-plex/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

A funny thing happened on the way to the forum. There I was, sporting my Santa Glugg hat and all set to merrily report on all the Frostfell news, when the following two questions were posted on the official EverQuest II forums: Am I going to get banned for trading platinum in exchange for Station Cash items, and can we get platinum on the marketplace?

Surprisingly, Senior Producer Dave "SmokeJumper" Georgeson replied to both. Read on to see what he said and why I think it's time for EverQuest II to follow EVE Online's lead and add purchasable, tradable game time or PLEX.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: An Appeal for PLEX

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: An Appeal for PLEX originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpeq-2eq-iiEQ2EQIIeveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedLegends-of-NorrathlonplexrmtSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashMon, 13 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trading platinum for Station Cash items OK with EQII's Georgeson]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/trading-platinum-for-station-cash-items-ok-with-eqiis-georgeson/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/trading-platinum-for-station-cash-items-ok-with-eqiis-georgeson/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/trading-platinum-for-station-cash-items-ok-with-eqiis-georgeson/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


EQ2Wire has an interesting tidbit regarding the exchange of platinum (EverQuest II's in-game currency) and items purchased with SOE's Station Cash. With players now able to gift Station Cash items, EQII vets wondered aloud on the game's official boards if trading some of their surplus plat for SC paraphernalia would lead to a ban.

Surprisingly, EQII producer Dave "Smokejumper" Georgeson took a laissez faire approach to the discussion, in effect saying that players are welcome to the trades provided they're not facilitated by any third parties. "We really don't want to put a hard value on platinum to SC conversion rates, so we would probably only step in on this if we thought it was going to cause us legal headaches in the future. So...if kept on the low-down, it'll never cause problems. But if someone put up a website selling items officially with posted conversion rates, I have a feeling that legal might want to step in and stop it to avoid issues. Make sense? Keep it person-to-person and I don't think this will ever be an issue," he wrote.

In addition to the exchange discussion, EQ2Wire's Feldon chimes in with a brief analysis of the game's economy and inflation troubles that's worth a read if you're thinking of heading back to the world of Norrath.

MassivelyTrading platinum for Station Cash items OK with EQII's Georgeson originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-georgesoneconomyEQ2eq2wireEQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iifeldoninflationplatinumsmokejumpersoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashstation-cash-platinum-tradingFri, 10 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Gifting -- 'tis the season?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/the-tattered-notebook-gifting-tis-the-season/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/the-tattered-notebook-gifting-tis-the-season/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/the-tattered-notebook-gifting-tis-the-season/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

"Mom! Stop driving through the pink lights! Only go through the green ones!"

I glanced over at my two kids and bit my tongue. I was in the middle of speeder bike racing and was having a little trouble navigating the course. In the split second that I turned away, my bike steered off the course, ran halfway up the snowy embankment, and lodged itself in a campfire. I was already dead last, but now I had the pleasure of watching the other racers lap me, not once, but twice.

I was playing Clone Wars Adventures, the latest free-to-play game from Sony Online Entertainment, and I was experiencing the full effects of the generation gap. I know, you're probably saying, "Wait a second, this is an EverQuest II column!" And you're right, but this week, I'd like to take a look at something that both Clone Wars and EverQuest II now have in common -- gifting. Read on to see why EQII players aren't necessarily viewing this latest game change as much of a gift.

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Gifting -- 'tis the season?

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Gifting -- 'tis the season? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopClone-Wars-AdventurescwaEQ2EQIIeve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iifree-to-playfreemiumLegends-of-NorrathmarketplaceopinionrmtSOESONYSony-Online-EntertainmentStar-Warsstation-cashthe-tattered-notebookMon, 29 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE readies Super Fan Days promotion, Station Cash discounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/soe-readies-super-fan-days-promotion-station-cash-discounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/soe-readies-super-fan-days-promotion-station-cash-discounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/soe-readies-super-fan-days-promotion-station-cash-discounts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Sony Online Entertainment is having a sale and you're invited. Whether you're currently playing Free Realms, Clone Wars Adventures, EverQuest, EverQuest II, EverQuest II Extended, or PoxNora, you'll find a number of daily deals on selected items each time you log into the games between November 3rd and November 9th. Each title will also have a special one-day sale on a particular item to celebrate the Super Fan Days promotion.

In addition to the item deals, SOE is offering 50% off of selected Station Cash purchases. You can pick up 2000, 2500, 5000, or 10000 Station Cash for half off the normal fee. Check the official game websites, linked above, for the latest info on the daily deals and other promotions. You can also read the official announcement on the SOE forums.

MassivelySOE readies Super Fan Days promotion, Station Cash discounts originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Clone-Wars-AdventureseqEQ2EQIIeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iifree-realmspox-norasalesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashTue, 02 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms adds land sharks and toilet pools to the store]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/10/free-realms-adds-land-sharks-and-toilet-pools-to-the-store/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/10/free-realms-adds-land-sharks-and-toilet-pools-to-the-store/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/10/free-realms-adds-land-sharks-and-toilet-pools-to-the-store/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You can laugh, but it's true. The latest edition to the Free Realms shop includes an above-ground pool that is a giant toilet. The lid even goes up and down, providing a built-in pool cover at no additional charge.

There are other new store items that are just as fun and silly as the toilet-pool, such as a land-shark that's actually a groundhog with a fin tied to its back. Other items head in the direction of just plain fun. How about a surfboard or an obstacle course platform that slides back and forth once placed?

Check out the Free Realms site for all the details on the new goodies, then come on in -- the water's fine!

[Thanks to EAC for the tip!]

MassivelyFree Realms adds land sharks and toilet pools to the store originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-realmsfree-realms-storefree-to-playland-sharksoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashtoilet-poolSat, 10 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE offers EQII guild name changes for $55]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/soe-offers-eq2-guild-name-changes-for-55/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/soe-offers-eq2-guild-name-changes-for-55/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/09/soe-offers-eq2-guild-name-changes-for-55/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Sony Online Entertainment has introduced a new item into their EverQuest II Station Cash Marketplace this week, and, while we're not normally in the habit of reporting on individual microtransaction products, this one bears mentioning if only for its rather shocking price tag.

For the princely sum of 5500 Station Cash (that's $55 USD for those of you counting at home), you can rename your guild and retain all experience gain and guild achievements since its inception. "The choosing of a guild name is a very important rite. To help ensure that your new name is considered carefully, we are introducing the potion at the price of 5500 SC. We believe this price is fair for those who do want a name change, but will also serve as a deterrent to those who might want to frivolously rename their guild every time they have a [kerfluffle] in the lands of Norrath," reads the announcement on the official EverQuest II website.

By way of comparison, kinship name changes in Turbine's Lord of the Rings Online currently cost $12.95 USD.

MassivelySOE offers EQII guild name changes for $55 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EQ2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iiguild-renameguild-rename-potionlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrosoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashturbineFri, 09 Jul 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest introduces Destrier mounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/everquest-introduces-destrier-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/everquest-introduces-destrier-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/everquest-introduces-destrier-mounts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's been just over a month since Sony Online Entertainment brought the Prowler mounts to EverQuest II, and they seem to have been a hit. SOE is extending a similar offer to EverQuest players with the addition of Destrier mounts.

The Destriers will have the same price point -- 2500 Station Cash -- as the EverQuest II Prowlers. Players will have a choice of four mounts: the Armored Battle Shire Saddle, the Armored Royal Ardennes Saddle, the Armored Royal Shire Saddle, and the Armored Planar Ardennes Saddle.

Want to see them in action? Sony Online Entertainment put together a trailer to show them off, so take a look after the jump, then visit the EverQuest site for more images.

Continue reading EverQuest introduces Destrier mounts

MassivelyEverQuest introduces Destrier mounts originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopdestriereqeverquestf2pfree-to-playmountssoesonySony-Online-Entertainmentstation-cashTue, 29 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Online Entertainment introduces $25 mount [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/20/sony-online-entertainment-introduces-25-mount/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/20/sony-online-entertainment-introduces-25-mount/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/20/sony-online-entertainment-introduces-25-mount/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

You knew someone was going to try it. Sony Online Entertainment is making their bid for a seat on the Sparklepony bandwagon with the introduction of mounts in EverQuest II.

Etheral, Sinister, and Ulteran Prowlers are now available in the Marketplace for 2500 Station Cash each, the equivalent of $25 USD. So are they worth it? Well, that is entirely a matter of opinion, but we can help you decide with a rundown of what's available.

These huge felines offer a 65% run speed, and lower your maximum falling speed. You can choose a Fierce version, which will give you a +5 bonus to many physical attacks, or an Arcane version fora +5 bonus to Focus, Ordination, Disruption, Subjugation and Ministration. Each mount is bound to one character and is no trade, so don't expect to use this mount on multiple characters.

They're available now, so check out the EverQuest II site for all the details.

[Update: Smokejumper has posted to the EQII forums to say that the mounts will be a "heirloom" item, which means the mount is bound across the account. They are not currently flagged as such, but SOE will be correcting that with Tuesday's update.]

[Update 2: Smokejumper has also gone on to say that the mounts do not have feather fall, as was stated in the online article. Thanks Conor!]

MassivelySony Online Entertainment introduces $25 mount [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 May 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2EQIIeverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-II-mountsprowlersSOEsony-online-entertainmentsparkleponystation-cashThu, 20 May 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Empty lots available for decoration in Free Realms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/15/empty-lots-available-for-decoration-in-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/15/empty-lots-available-for-decoration-in-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/15/empty-lots-available-for-decoration-in-free-realms/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What would you do with an empty lot that you could build almost anything on? Free Realms is interested to see what your answer might be, because they've removed the biggest impediment to building whatever you want: that big, inconvenient house in the middle. Well, to be fair, houses aren't inconvenient when you want one there, but they do sort of get in the way of a giant hedge maze, or obstacle course, or tribute to yourself in real estate form.

There are two types of lot currently available, a Briarwood lot and a Snowhill lot. Each one can hold a grand total of 1,500 items, which gives players more than enough freedom to build almost anything. The one catch is that the lots do cost Station Cash, but that's the nature of the free-to-play beast. Free Realms has always had an interesting mix of elements, both sandbox-oriented and quest-oriented, and this one skews toward the side of a sandbox -- which is what you can literally build, if you so desire.

MassivelyEmpty lots available for decoration in Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 15 May 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>empty-lotsf2pfrfree-2-playfree-mmorpgfree-realmsfree-realms-soefree-realms-sonyfree-to-playhousinglotsplayer-housingsoesony-onlinesony-online-entertainmentstation-cashSat, 15 May 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook MMOgraphy: First impressions of The Agency: Covert Ops]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/09/facebook-mmography-first-impressions-of-the-agency-covert-ops/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/09/facebook-mmography-first-impressions-of-the-agency-covert-ops/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/09/facebook-mmography-first-impressions-of-the-agency-covert-ops/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Every two weeks, Facebook MMOgraphy brings you the latest news, guides and analysis about MMOs on Facebook and Facebook apps associated with MMOs.

SOE's upcoming spy MMO The Agency has been long in the making. We've been covering it at Massively for quite some time now. Though it's not quite ready to launch yet, SOE has surprised us this week with a Facebook gaming app, The Agency: Covert Ops. Though Covert Ops is a Facebook app based on an MMO, it's not an MMO itself. There is no real time interaction with other players, for example. However it does provide light entertainment for those who enjoy the spy genre and has the same tone and feel of their upcoming MMO title.

The Basics
The core of the game is leveling your spy via missions. The missions follow a storyline and some of them are accomplished simply by having the correct resources needed, others require you to complete a minigame. Rewards include in-game cash, experience for your character and components to build better equipment. Every mission requires a certain amount of Cover to complete and when you run out of Cover, you need to allow it to replenish over time or buy more through a microtransaction store. Pop ups provide a tutorial to walk you through the gameplay flow and videos explain minigame play.

Continue reading Facebook MMOgraphy: First impressions of The Agency: Covert Ops

MassivelyFacebook MMOgraphy: First impressions of The Agency: Covert Ops originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 May 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>covert-opscovert-ops-facebookfacebookfeaturedparagonsoestation-cashthe-agency-covert-opsuniteSun, 09 May 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms and 7-11 offer up a special dino-sized bonus]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/free-realms-and-7-11-offer-up-a-special-dino-sized-bonus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/free-realms-and-7-11-offer-up-a-special-dino-sized-bonus/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/free-realms-and-7-11-offer-up-a-special-dino-sized-bonus/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Just when you thought dinosaurs couldn't really get any more awesome, the team at SOE have managed to do just that. How? By giving away a free T-Rex Free Realms ride along with the purchase of $10 Station Cash cards at 7-11! What's even better is that this special 7-11 logo colored T-Rex mount isn't restricted to just monthly-subscribing members. According to a note on their Facebook fan page, the promotion applies to members and non-members alike and runs from now until April 19th.

With that said, you'll also get a special green hat for your Free Realms pet dog -- but really, dog hat vs. T-Rex mount? It's kind of a no-brainer there as to which is cooler between the two. There again, you'll have $10 worth of Station Cash to get a Free Realms dog with if you don't already have one. Alternately, you could gift your child with a cool dinosaur to ride in Free Realms, and use the Station Cash for your EverQuest, or EverQuest II account -- so long as they're all tied to the same Station account, anyway.

[Via Brasse]

MassivelyFree Realms and 7-11 offer up a special dino-sized bonus originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-itemfrfree-realmssoesony-online-entertainmentstation-casht-rexThu, 18 Mar 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms adds new pegasus, horse, ponies, and more!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/free-realms-adds-new-pegasus-horse-ponies-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/free-realms-adds-new-pegasus-horse-ponies-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/free-realms-adds-new-pegasus-horse-ponies-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Free Realms team has been crazy busy at work lately creating all manner of new things that players have been clamoring for. With the recent addition of dragon and dinosaur mounts came the call for horses for players to ride. As such, they introduced new horse mounts, but then added even more fun in the form of pegasus rides as well!

The horses are available for members to pick up at 450 Station Cash each. The White-Nosed Mares are colored in fantasy-like style -- pink, purple, blue, pure white and more -- while the Stallion model features more traditional horse colors like gray, black, tan, and chestnut. Pegasus rides, on the other hand, are available at 550 Station Cash, and come in lilac, blue-black, gray, pink, sea-foam green, and white.

Continue reading Free Realms adds new pegasus, horse, ponies, and more!

MassivelyFree Realms adds new pegasus, horse, ponies, and more! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frfree-realmsfurniturehorsemountsowlpegasuspetsplayer-housingponyridessoesony-online-entertainmentstation-cashwhite-nosed-mareMon, 15 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest: Underfoot introduces new zone, special pricing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/everquest-underfoot-introduces-new-zone-special-pricing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/everquest-underfoot-introduces-new-zone-special-pricing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/everquest-underfoot-introduces-new-zone-special-pricing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


EverQuest fans, Underfoot just got bigger and better. Sony Online Entertainment debuted the exclusive new Convorteum zone in their expansion today, offering even more new content for players. The Convorteum brings six new raids, a new mission, and multiple new quests to the game.

Have you been wanting to take a look at Underfoot? Now's your chance, as all subscribers -- both current and inactive -- are being treated to a free three-day trial of the expansion until March 12th. If you decide you like it, purchase it from the Station Store for a discounted price of $34.99 until March 31st. Sony Online Entertainment is offering 500 Station Cash, a Legends of Norrath Loot Scenario and the Mark of Brell in-game item with the offer as well, so it's definitely worth it.

If you've already purchased the expansion, don't worry, SOE isn't leaving you out. Just log in before March 31st to receive an exclusive Gnomework Mercenary skin of your very own!

MassivelyEverQuest: Underfoot introduces new zone, special pricing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeverquesteverquest-underfootsoesony-online-entertainmentstation-cashstation-storeWed, 10 Mar 2010 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms offers new pets and mounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/06/free-realms-offers-new-pets-and-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/06/free-realms-offers-new-pets-and-mounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/06/free-realms-offers-new-pets-and-mounts/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you spent all of your Station Cash on a T-Rex mount in Free Realms last month, it may be time to refill your coffers.

Sony Online Entertainment introduced some new Free Realms pets in the game yesterday, as well as some fancy new designs for the mounts. You can now add a groundhog to your pet collection as well as an owl (we're going to have to ask you not to name it Hedwig. Thanks.) The owl, of course, flies alongside you, while the groundhog burrows under the ground, popping his head up when you stop to see where you've led him.

If you're more interested in mounts, you'll be happy to hear that the Spotted T-Rex and the Scaled Dragon are now part of the list of available mounts, and both are available in six different colors. These are new versions of the recently introduced T-Rex and Flying Dragon mounts introduced in February, so if you liked those and are ready for some variety, head over to the Free Realms site for all the information.

[Thanks to Lizzy for the tip!]

MassivelyFree Realms offers new pets and mounts originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-realmsfree-realms-mountsfree-realms-petsmountspetsSOEsony-online-entertainmentstation-cashSat, 06 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II hits ConnectDING goal of 15,000 fans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/everquest-ii-hits-connectding-goal-of-15-000-fans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/everquest-ii-hits-connectding-goal-of-15-000-fans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/everquest-ii-hits-connectding-goal-of-15-000-fans/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you're an EverQuest II player, you should rejoice right about now! SOE's ConnectDING! program has been a success in EverQuest II, granting everyone in game a celebratory 500 station cash and the community pillow fight pillow!

The last day was the decider, as the EQII community got over 1,000 more fans to sign up to the game's Facebook and Twitter pages in a single day. It looked a little iffy, especially as the community still needed 947 of those fans to sign up within 12 hours, but they made it with only a few hours to spare, clinching the victory.

The station cash has already been deposited into everyone's accounts, however the community pillow has not. Look forward to the community pillow in your inbox tomorrow, after the Sentinel's Fate server downtime.

MassivelyEverQuest II hits ConnectDING goal of 15,000 fans originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connectdingcontesteq2eq2-marketplaceeqiieverquest-2everquest-iigold-awardsoesony-online-entertainmentstation-cashwinMon, 15 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a copy of EverQuest II: Sentinel's Fate tonight in Massively's "Keys of Fate" event! [Closed!]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/win-a-copy-of-everquest-ii-sentinels-fate-tonight-in-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/win-a-copy-of-everquest-ii-sentinels-fate-tonight-in-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/win-a-copy-of-everquest-ii-sentinels-fate-tonight-in-massively/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You have an EverQuest II subscription (or want to sign up for a trial?) You want to participate in a fun event, solve a few puzzles, and have a chance at winning a collector's edition key for Sentinel's Fate just in time for tomorrow's launch? Then do we have the offer for you!

Tonight, starting at 8:30 PM ET (5:30 PM PT), boot up your EverQuest II to the Lucan d'Lere server and get your browsers pointed to Massively.com. We're hosting an across-the-internet scavenger hunt, finishing out with a race across Norrath to find our roving Dark Elven reporter, Seccia Ravenloft.

Seccia has been equipped with not one, but two key codes that will unlock the Sentinel's Fate collector's edition in addition to 10 key codes that will unlock the standard retail version. All of these keys will let you access the Sentinel's Fate headstart, which begins tomorrow!

Need all the details? We have them right after the break!

Continue reading Win a copy of EverQuest II: Sentinel's Fate tonight in Massively's "Keys of Fate" event! [Closed!]

MassivelyWin a copy of EverQuest II: Sentinel's Fate tonight in Massively's "Keys of Fate" event! [Closed!] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MMO Family is your resource for leveling a gaming-specced family ... From tips on balancing gaming with family life to finding age-appropriate niches for every family member, MMO Family offers you advice on MMO gaming of the family, by the family and for the family.

This week, MMO Family begins a gaming-savvy look at some of the most popular kid MMOs. You know what you like in an MMO - but what about your kids? And what if you're looking for something the whole family could play together? Today's gaming family can nibble from a whole feast of MMOs: games for grownups (we can help you fence off areas for kids who want to play what Mom and Dad do), games for the little ones, games for tweens and teens, and games for everyone to play together. When it's time to find just the right selection for the kids, we'll help you reticle over the most likely targets.

First up: Free Realms from Sony Online Entertainment.

Continue reading MMO Family: A parent's look at Free Realms

MassivelyMMO Family: A parent's look at Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chat-filterchildrenESRBESRB-ratingfamilyfamily-friendlyfamily-funfamily-gamingfeaturedFree-Realmskid-friendlykidsparental-controlsparentsSony-Online-EntertainmentStation-CashFri, 15 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Online Entertainment offers in-game loot for social networking]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/sony-online-entertainment-offers-in-game-loot-for-social-network/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/sony-online-entertainment-offers-in-game-loot-for-social-network/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/sony-online-entertainment-offers-in-game-loot-for-social-network/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment has jumped on the social networking bandwagon with a vengeance, setting up Facebook and Twitter pages for Free Realms, EverQuest, and EverQuest II.

Of course, they want their player base to get involved and check these sites regularly, but they also want you playing their games. How to accomplish both goals? Simple -- offer prizes for doing both, and offer them up to everyone via a fun new program called "ConnectDING!"

SOE has set some goals for followers and fans of the sites for all three games: 5,000, 10,000, and 15,000. Each time they hit one of those milestones in a game they'll "DING!" and everyone in the game in question will be able to claim a little gift. At 5,000 it will be 250 Station Cash, at 10,000 it will be 250 Station Cash plus an interactive item, and at 15,000 everyone will receive 500 Station Cash and another interactive item.

Check out the official information page for all the details, and then head over to Facebook and Twitter to make your prizes arrive even faster.

MassivelySony Online Entertainment offers in-game loot for social networking originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>everquesteverquest-2facebookfree-realmsSOEsony-online-entertainmentstation-cashtwitterThu, 10 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE offering a 25% boost in Station Cash this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/soe-offering-a-25-boost-in-station-cash-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/soe-offering-a-25-boost-in-station-cash-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/25/soe-offering-a-25-boost-in-station-cash-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you play EverQuest, EverQuest II or Free Realms and happen upon a Station Cash card this week, you may want to considering picking one or two up. Sony Online Entertainment will be giving players with accounts in good standing a 25% boost to any Station Cash card they redeem between Monday, November 23 (after 10:00am PST) and Sunday, November 29th (before 10:00pm PST).

A pretty good offer if we do say so ourselves. In fact, we kind of wish we knew that for our second episode ReSubbed this week, as we could've mentioned it during our jaunty exploration of EverQuest's trial zone. Oh well, at least you know now!

MassivelySOE offering a 25% boost in Station Cash this week originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq-2everquesteverquest-2free-realmssoesony-online-entertainmentstation-cashthanksgivingthanksgiving-2009Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms hosts Pirate Party and doubles the dubloons, mateys]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/free-realms-hosts-pirate-party-and-doubles-the-dubloons-mateys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/free-realms-hosts-pirate-party-and-doubles-the-dubloons-mateys/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/free-realms-hosts-pirate-party-and-doubles-the-dubloons-mateys/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Yarr, mateys! If ye be not knowin' what tomorrow is, then ye obviously must be a bunch o' scalawags. Fer, ye see, tomorrow is Talk Like a Pirate Day, don'chaknow? In order to celebrate th' day o' piracy properly in Free Realms, ye need to be haulin' yer keel to the Pirate Invasion Party this evenin' in the cove just south of th' Seaside warpstone. Th' pirate booty-shakin' fun will begin today (Friday, Sept. 18) at 4PM Pacific, with th' timber-shiverin' goin' on until 6pm Pacific. There be dancin', trivia, an' other merriment planned at th' party, too, for those brave souls willing to wander near Davey Jones' locker!

As if that weren`t enough for ye, this weekend be also th' time when Sony Online Entertainment be offerin' double th' value fer any Station Cash cards ye redeem. So that means if ye pop by an' pick up one o' th' 1000 Station Cash cards fer $10 (which will also net ye a pretty nifty red buccanneer dog hat in th' mix) ye`ll land $20 worth o' Station Cash fer use in Free Realms, EverQuest, or EverQuest II. Pirate fun and double yer dubloons in the Station store? Now that's enough to make any freebootin' privateer dance a jig - without a noose 'round their necks, even.

MassivelyFree Realms hosts Pirate Party and doubles the dubloons, mateys originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony Online Entertainment Fan Faire 2009 is happening in Las Vegas, and of course they've had a number of things to unveil so far. SOE president John Smedley gave his community address last evening, and other speakers made an appearance as well. We've got a few highlights from SOE Fan Faire 2009 for you:

Station Cash

Smedley jumped right in by talking about the state of the SOE game lineup and some of the new directions they've explored with them in this past year. One of those new directions has been the introduction of Station Cash, and he talked about the growing adoption of Station Cash among SOE game subscribers in EverQuest and EverQuest II, as well as how it will soon be tied into new services and customization options. He announced a partnership with Hewlett-Packard which will allow players to purchase matte print images of art from the games using Station Cash. You'll be able to have your own character rendered in a high-quality art print, or even have your entire guild depicted and sent to you as a hardcopy art book.

EverQuest: Underfoot and EverQuest II: Sentinel's Fate

On the topic of EverQuest, remember that mention we had of SOE trademarking new EQ properties? It turns out these are the new expansions: EverQuest: Underfoot and EverQuest II: Sentinel's Fate. Smedley kicked off the EQ announcements by reflecting back on 10 years of EverQuest and looking to where the IP is headed in the future. EverQuest II producer Alan "Brenlo" Crosby discussed the game's sixth expansion, Sentinel's Fate, where players will travel to the land of Odus and see what's happened there since The Shattering.

He dropped a few details about this next expansion, slated for a February 2010 launch, and the updates they plan to release between now and Sentinel's Fate. These updates will include the ability to downtier characters, allowing you to go back and replay older content, plus achievements are coming to EverQuest II. In addition, the EQ II level cap will increase by ten levels.

SOE hasn't forgotten about their long-term fans either, those who have stuck with the original EverQuest through the years. EverQuest producer Thomas Terrazas announced the sixteenth EQ expansion, Underfoot, which will launch in November 2009. Underfoot will feature 12-15 zones at launch, with bonus zones and additional content to release in April of 2010. Underfoot will have twice as many weapons as any of the previous 15 expansions, a new focus targeting window (allowing you to add specific targets to your list, monitor health of friends and foes), and achievement tracking that will help players remain aware of the objectives to be completed in their progression path. "In other words," Terrazas said, "you won't have to go looking online on somebody else's website so see what you need. It'll be in-game."

Fan Faire 2009 attendees will get both expansions for free.

Continue reading Highlights from the SOE Fan Faire 2009 community address

MassivelyHighlights from the SOE Fan Faire 2009 community address originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Jun 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-crosbybig-bang-entertainmentbreakingbrenlochris-fielddeath-troopersderby-racerdruiddruidseverquesteverquest-2everquest-2-sentinels-fateeverquest-underfootfan-faire-2009free-realmshewlett-packardhpjohn-smedleykart-racerken-georgelaralyn-mcwilliamssentinels-fatesoesoe-fan-fairesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesstation-cashswgthomas-terazzastoppsunderfootuser-generated-contentSat, 27 Jun 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms announces free virtual items and Station Cash for all players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/free-realms-announces-free-virtual-items-and-station-cash-for-al/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/free-realms-announces-free-virtual-items-and-station-cash-for-al/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/free-realms-announces-free-virtual-items-and-station-cash-for-al/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


"Well that didn't take long" was the gist of what the Massively team had to say about today's Free Realms announcement of over one million players signed up in the first eighteen days. Are these players all shelling out for Station Cash? Doubtful. And it's way too soon to judge how many of those players will stick with the game, but it's still a pretty big deal.

Sony Online Entertainment seems to think so as well, and have announced they'll be giving out virtual gifts to all one million Free Realms players. 999,999 players will receive an in-game T-shirt with a matching shirt for their pet, in addition to 200 Station Cash. The one-millionth player will get a sweeter deal -- a lifetime membership to Free Realms, an astronaut suit (the only one in the game), and 10,000 Station Cash.
Want to know more about Free Realms? SOE's new whimsical free-to-play MMO is already being called a refreshing change of pace for kids and adults alike, and we have just the coverage you need!

MassivelyFree Realms announces free virtual items and Station Cash for all players originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 May 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astronautcasualfree-realmsfree-to-playkidslifetime-membershipsoesony-online-entertainmentstation-cashFri, 15 May 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What do you think of 'freemium' MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/09/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-think-of-freemium-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/09/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-think-of-freemium-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/09/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-think-of-freemium-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


There's a new flavour in town and it's called 'freemium'. A mish-mash of 'free' and 'premium', it's the latest buzzword to describe MMOs like Free Realms. The game is free and there are no monthly subscriptions but if you want the whole package like extra characters or the ability to buy in-game items, then you will need to upgrade your account or find your credit card.

This idea did not begin with Free Realms, of course. Linden Lab has been charging a land tax and offering an exchange rate for Linden Dollars since the beginning of Second Life and has created numerous in-game and real world millionaires as a result. There are also dozens of free-to-play titles which give you the option of buying potions or weapons to enhance your game. But I wonder, is the idea of a 'freemium' just a regular MMO but with an incentive to hook you in? Do you buy virtual items to enhance your game but part with real money? Do you think titles like Free Realms and Second Life are more about getting people to pay for an enhanced version of the game?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What do you think of 'freemium' MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 09 May 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-realmsfree-to-playfreemiumlinden dollarslinden-labLindenDollarssecond-lifestation-cashSat, 09 May 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Free Realms trading card game arrives this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/the-free-realms-trading-card-game-arrives-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/the-free-realms-trading-card-game-arrives-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/the-free-realms-trading-card-game-arrives-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We've known for a while now that the Sony Online Entertainment studio in Denver has been hard at work developing a collectible card game to coincide with the launch of Free Realms. SOE and Topps have partnered to create and distribute the Free Realms Trading Card Game which will hit store shelves this week. The Free Realms Trading Card Game bridges the gap between a physical card game and the MMO with virtual rewards like pets, clothing, and 'special character effects'. There will be over 180 game cards, with 50 virtual reward cards that can be redeemed for in-game items. In fact, each pack sold will have a virtual reward card. In addition, there will be 16 cards with codes that unlock their corresponding card in the game.

Free Realms players interested in checking out the trading card game can pick up the 'Passport to Free Realms Starter Pack', at $10, which includes a 40 card deck with virtual benefits in the MMO: a card that unlocks a Black Lab, a t-shirt for your character, three jumbo health potions, a virtual 'Cardie Racer', and one month of full (subscriber) access to Free Realms. Booster packs will also be available at $4 each. Booster packs will include 10 game cards, one virtual reward card, and 50 Station Cash.

Gallery: Free Realms TCG

MassivelyThe Free Realms trading card game arrives this week originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 May 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booster-packbooster-packscasualfree-realmskidssoesoe-denversony-online-entertainmentstation-cashtoppstrading-card-gamesMon, 04 May 2009 20:00:00 EST