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[Massive ARGO Online patch raises level cap, adds new dungeons and quests]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/massive-argo-online-patch-raises-level-cap-adds-new-dungeons-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/massive-argo-online-patch-raises-level-cap-adds-new-dungeons-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/massive-argo-online-patch-raises-level-cap-adds-new-dungeons-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

ARGO Online - floating steampunk dude with wings and a huge weapon
Remember ARGO Online, the free-to-play steampunk fantasy MMO that launched in early 2011? If not, now's as good a time as any to refresh your memory since the game is about to undergo the largest content update in its history.

First up is a max-level increase (to 55), followed by a new "expert" island called Naviruo, which is geared toward level 50-plus players. Here you'll find more than 400 new quests that continue the tale of conflict between the Floresslah and Nobilan factions. There are also seven new dungeons to satiate your PvE and PvP appetites, not to mention over 300 new types of monsters to make things a little more challenging.

As always, more info is available at the official ARGO website.

[Source: ProSiebenSat.1 Games press release]

MassivelyMassive ARGO Online patch raises level cap, adds new dungeons and quests originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argoargo-onlinecontent-patchf2pfantasyfree-to-playprosiebensat.1sci-fisteampunkWed, 23 May 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Steam goes into alpha testing this July]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/city-of-steam-goes-into-alpha-testing-this-july/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/city-of-steam-goes-into-alpha-testing-this-july/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/city-of-steam-goes-into-alpha-testing-this-july/#commentsFiled under: , ,

City of Steam
City of Steam's been building up some strong word-of-mouth in the community, and we've been quite eager to get our hands on this steampunk MMO. The good news is that we just may have that chance come July, when City of Steam enters alpha testing.

Mechanist Games recently announced that work on the game is progressing to the point that it's ready to undergo player testing. While there isn't an exact date yet, it's certainly enough to know that July will be a special month.

"We're actually quite pleased that quite a few of those who participated in the sneak peek test told us that the game was already looking like an alpha build," the team writes. "Thanks and we would like to say we're quite proud of that fact."

MassivelyCity of Steam goes into alpha testing this July originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testalpha-testingbetabeta-testbeta-testingcity-of-steamfantasymechanist-gamesscifisteampunkMon, 07 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Steam fashions a pressurized skill tree]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/city-of-steam-fashions-a-pressurized-skill-tree/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/city-of-steam-fashions-a-pressurized-skill-tree/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/city-of-steam-fashions-a-pressurized-skill-tree/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

City of Steam
Many MMOs have skill or talent trees, but when you're doing a steampunk game, why not take a bland staple of the genre and turn it into something awesome? That's what City of Steam's Lead Designer Dave Winking is promoting when he shows off the team's ideas for turning the mundane into the fantastical.

After taking feedback from previous generic builds, City of Steam's dev team revamped the skill tree's visuals and mechanics to entice a "whoa!" out of its players. The concept is that the tree is now a maze of pipes, boilers, and valves. Players will build up "pressure" over time, pressure that can be vented into different pipes. The more pressure in a pipe, the higher a skill goes, and once a skill hits 100% pressure, it's usable by the player.

Winking says that players have more options than just filling up a pipe; they can also over-pressurize pipes to achieve higher skill ranks and take multiple paths to achieve better skills. There's even a mystery skill that Winking says will "make your character explode into pieces of bread with cat's heads stuck through them." Of course, he then says he's probably teasing about the last thing.

MassivelyCity of Steam fashions a pressurized skill tree originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacity-of-steamclockworkDave-Winkingdev-blogdev-diarydev-journalMechanist-Gamespressurepressure-valvepreviewskill-treesteampunktalent-treeMon, 09 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Guns of Icarus announces closed beta, details adventure mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-guns-of-icarus-announces-closed-beta-details-adv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-guns-of-icarus-announces-closed-beta-details-adv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-guns-of-icarus-announces-closed-beta-details-adv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Guns of Icarus Online
STEAMPUNK! AHH! OK, now that that's out of my system, let's talk Guns of Icarus Online. This morning, I had the pleasure of meeting with some of the folks from Muse Games at PAX East to talk about the studio's upcoming steampunk-airship-battling title. The title is still in alpha testing, though it will be springing into the early stages of closed beta at some point in the next couple of weeks. At launch, the title will be focused on competitive, match-made PvP matches a la first-person-shooters.

But this is Massively, so let's talk MMOs. Strictly speaking, I'd have to say Guns of Icarus Online isn't one -- at least not yet. After the initial match-based "skirmish" mode of the game is released, the studio will continue to support it by slowly adding in "adventure" mode features. Adventure mode is more akin to a traditional MMO in that it provide a more open world for players to navigate and explore, tradeskill and economy systems, missions, towns, and settlements, all within a persistent world. While it remains to be seen whether the game will ultimately become a "true" MMO, this stylish foray into the steampunk/dieselpunk genres is definitely one to watch.

Massively's on the ground in Boston during the weekend of April 6-8, bringing you all the best news from PAX East 2012. Whether you're dying to know more about TERA or PlanetSide 2 or any MMO in between, we aim to have it covered!

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Guns of Icarus announces closed beta, details adventure mode originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airshipairshipsbetabetasclosed-betaconconventiondieselpunkdirigiblesexpoguns-of-icarusguns-of-icarus-onlinehnnnghmuse-gamespaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-exposteampunkzeppelinsSat, 07 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Guns of Icarus video shows off cooperative airship battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/new-guns-of-icarus-video-shows-off-cooperative-airship-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/new-guns-of-icarus-video-shows-off-cooperative-airship-battles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/new-guns-of-icarus-video-shows-off-cooperative-airship-battles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Image
Remember Guns of Icarus? If not, let's recap: small indie studio, steampunk, airships. That probably rings a few bells, and you'll be happy to know that the dev team has parlayed a successful Kickstarter campaign into an extended development cycle.

As a result, we have a spiffy new video that shows off cooperative airship combat. Muse Games also wants you to know that you can download the single-player game (and sign up for the multiplayer beta) at its official website. Before you go, check out the full clip after the cut.

Continue reading New Guns of Icarus video shows off cooperative airship battles

MassivelyNew Guns of Icarus video shows off cooperative airship battles originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airshipsbrowser-basedf2pfree-to-playguns-of-icarusguns-of-icarus-onlinemusemuse-gamessteampunkunityunity-enginevideoThu, 05 Apr 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The gates hiss open for a peek at City of Steam]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/the-gates-hiss-open-for-a-peek-at-city-of-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/the-gates-hiss-open-for-a-peek-at-city-of-steam/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/the-gates-hiss-open-for-a-peek-at-city-of-steam/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

This screenshot looks more like it comes from the City of Green Women With Cool Armor and Guns. Which is a pretty neat city too.
The steampunk genre is loved by a lot of gamers, but it has yet to see a surfeit of titles. The good news for fans is that City of Steam is on the horizon, and it's promising a free-to-play browser-based experience for anyone who wants to take part in exploring ancient mechanical ruins. Of course, the question then becomes whether or not the game is worth the investment of time... something that can be solved by taking part in the game's currently running sneak peek event.

The sneak peek is available only to players who already snagged a code for access, meaning that players just coming into the game will be out of luck. It's certainly an encouraging sign that the game is moving toward its full release, which should make fans of clockwork automatons and arcane science quite happy. And if you're one of the players taking part in the sneak peek... well, all the better, right?

MassivelyThe gates hiss open for a peek at City of Steam originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasbrowserbrowser-gamescity-of-steamcosf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventsmachinist-gamesnew-titlessneak-peeksteampunktestingupcoming-titlesSun, 04 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Gold Online alpha footage released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/black-gold-online-alpha-footage-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/black-gold-online-alpha-footage-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/black-gold-online-alpha-footage-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Black Gold - character concept art
A good steampunk MMO is sort of a holy grail for some of us Massively folk, so we're excited to bring you the news of another one in the works. Black Gold Online is the title in question, and it's currently being developed by Snail Games. If that name doesn't ring a bell, consider that the firm is behind the upcoming Age of Wulin Wushu free-to-play martial arts MMO.

According to MMO Culture, Black Gold will pit two rival factions against one another in a struggle for control of a world divided between nature lovers and technologists. We don't know a whole lot of gameplay details yet, but we'll keep our eye on this one. Don't forget to check out the Russian server alpha footage after the cut.

Continue reading Black Gold Online alpha footage released

MassivelyBlack Gold Online alpha footage released originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-footageblack-goldf2pfantasyfree-to-playsci-fisnail-gamessteampunktrailervideoMon, 09 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Steam browser title features unique steampunk world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/city-of-steam-browser-title-features-unique-steampunk-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/city-of-steam-browser-title-features-unique-steampunk-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/city-of-steam-browser-title-features-unique-steampunk-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

City of Steam
Steampunk continues to be a source of fascination for both game geeks and game developers, and the latest example of the phenomenon in MMO circles is a new title called City of Steam.

An interview at Light Speed Gaming spills the beans on the browser-based title, which is being developed by a Chinese firm called Mechanist Games. If you've ever wanted to play a mechanical dwarf, or explore a world that is literally a giant machine, City of Steam may be your game. The setting is borrowed from a series of RPG books and incorporates all the elements of fantastical steampunk (plus a few novel twists) that fans of the genre have come to expect.

"The world itself is a giant machine, and is, in fact flat. The elemental planes aren't found by mystical methods -- you can literally walk across the teeth of the world to reach them. The sun and stars are actually tethered to the world, orbiting as gyroscopic pieces of the superstructure of existence," according to the designers. Head to Light Speed Gaming for more on the setting and the game mechanics, and don't forget to view the video embed after the break.

[Thanks to Soren for the tip!]

Continue reading City of Steam browser title features unique steampunk world

MassivelyCity of Steam browser title features unique steampunk world originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedcity-of-steamfantasygame-mechanicsloremechanistmechanist-gamesmmo-industrynew-titlessettingsteampunkvideoworld-designSat, 05 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO's Update 11 arises with the artful Artificer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/ddos-update-11-arises-with-the-artful-artificer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/ddos-update-11-arises-with-the-artful-artificer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/ddos-update-11-arises-with-the-artful-artificer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

DDO floating disembodied heads
Today marks the latest evolution of Dungeons and Dragons Online, as Update 11: Secrets of the Artificers went live on the servers and the steampunk community collectively lost its composure.

Update 11 adds a completely new high-level quest hub called House Cannith, where players can adventure out into a new wilderness area, dive into a trio of dungeons, tackle a pair of raids, and finish off the day with a trip to House Cannith's famed crafting hall.

The cornerstone of this massive patch is the addition of the Artificer class, a steampunk-infused hybrid ranged damage-dealer with a snazzy look that would fit in fine at any geek convention in the world. To celebrate the advent of the Artificer, Turbine's Kyle Horner and Steve Muray sat down to compose a back-and-forth dev diary about the development and dark secrets concerning the class. The duo thinks that it will appeal to trigger-happy players who love their "pew pew."

VIP players (subscribers) can start enjoying the new content today, but the rest of the playerbase is going to have to wait until the 15th to purchase the class and quest content from the DDO store.

MassivelyDDO's Update 11 arises with the artful Artificer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-areacraftingcrafting-hallddodev-diarydeveloper-q-and-adungeondungeonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinehouse-cannithinstanceskyle-hornerpew-pewq-and-araidraidsrun-and-gunrune-armsecrets-of-the-artificerssteampunksteve-murayturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-11Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spiral Knights adds spooky Candlestick Keep content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/spiral-knights-adds-spooky-candlestick-keep-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/spiral-knights-adds-spooky-candlestick-keep-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/07/spiral-knights-adds-spooky-candlestick-keep-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Spiral Knights image
If you thought steampunk couldn't mate with adorkable, think again. Spiral Knights, Three Rings' lobby-based action-MMO, delivers both in the consummate concoction of clockwork and cute, and the company recently launched an update bringing new dungeon content to the game. The haunted Candlestick Keep, "all that remains of the once prosperous Owlite Academy," is crawling with undead monsters like Grimalkins, but fortunately, players can make use of colored ward candles to protect them from spookats and open pesky locked doors. The update also adds challenging new Danger Rooms, a revamped Crash Site, and cash shop tweaks.

Our own free-to-play guru Beau Hindman took a stroll through the game way back in March, deeming it "repetitive but really fun." It is currently available for download on the official site and as part of Steam's F2P offerings.

MassivelySpiral Knights adds spooky Candlestick Keep content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmocandlestick-keepdungeonf2pfree-to-playlobbylobby-basednewspatchspiral-knightssteamsteampunkthe-clockworksthree-ringsWed, 07 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ArcheAge video shows off unusual transportation options]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/archeage-video-shows-off-unusual-transportation-options/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/archeage-video-shows-off-unusual-transportation-options/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/archeage-video-shows-off-unusual-transportation-options/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

ArcheAge - transportation
We've stumbled across another ArcheAge video, and unlike the last such that focused heavily on PvP, this time around we get a good look at some of the sandpark title's unique transportation alternatives.

There are a gaggle of mounts on display, and with apologies to our Korean friends who will no doubt correct us in due time, we're just going to call them like we see them. Aside from your traditional horse and rider option there's also what appears to be some sort of spotted lion as well as a curious cross between a tauntaun and a bunny rabbit.

We also get a glimpse of some city-based transport systems including a steampunk-esque horse and floating carriage (with some sort of mechanical contraption filling in for the horse), as well as the hang-gliding option we saw previously in the ChinaJoy trailer. Finally, there's more footage of the famous airship that's been featured in several previous ArcheAge clips. Head past the cut to see the sights.

Continue reading ArcheAge video shows off unusual transportation options

MassivelyArcheAge video shows off unusual transportation options originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagebunny-rabbit-mountcarriagefantasyhorsesmountsrabbit-mountsandboxsandparksteampunktauntauntransportationvideoxlxl-gamesFri, 12 Aug 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Muse announces Guns of Icarus, unveils CG trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/muse-announces-guns-of-icarus-unveils-cg-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/muse-announces-guns-of-icarus-unveils-cg-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/muse-announces-guns-of-icarus-unveils-cg-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Guns of Icarus screenshot
Browser MMOs are a dime a dozen these days, and sometimes it seems like there's a new one popping up on an hourly basis. Consequently, first impressions are everything in such a crowded marketplace, and if its CG trailer is anything to go by, Guns of Icarus may raise a few eyebrows when it launches in 2012.

The game is built around the popular Unity engine and features a post-apocalyptic world that mixes steampunk, classic aviation, and an adventure-serial feel that evokes the seminal Xbox shooter Crimson Skies (and perhaps a gritty, aerial homage to Indiana Jones). Gameplay centers around your airship, and dev studio Muse Games says that "moving from town to town, trading and collecting resources, outfitting your ship, and battling deadly pirates" are just a few of the things you'll do.

Your airship can also feature additional player crewmembers (or NPCs if you're a loner), and the game's skill and leveling system looks to make each crewman both unique and versatile. "Expect to find your pilot putting out a fire or your mechanic manning the guns at any moment," says Muse's press release. You can check out the new CG trailer as well as a brief gameplay video after the break.

Continue reading Muse announces Guns of Icarus, unveils CG trailer

MassivelyMuse announces Guns of Icarus, unveils CG trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airshipairshipsbrowserbrowser-basedcrewmembersguns-of-icarusmusemuse-gamesplayer-crewed-shipspost-apocalypticpress-releasesci-fisteampunktrailerunityunity-enginevideoFri, 12 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the What Ifs: Ultima Worlds Online: Origin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-what-ifs-ultima-worlds-online-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-what-ifs-ultima-worlds-online-o/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-what-ifs-ultima-worlds-online-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Two months ago, we heard a rumor (which has since gone quiet) that a new Ultima Online sequel might be in the oven in Electronic Art's kitchen. As with any rumor, it was important to take it with a grain of disbelief, although a pinch of hope seems appropriate in this case as well. After all, Ultima Online's been begging for a sequel ever since the hit MMO started facing stiff competition in the form of 3-D worlds like EverQuest and Asheron's Call.

For some of us gamers, word of a UO sequel feels like deja vu, and rightly so. This wouldn't be the first time that EA embarked on a project to make a more modern Ultima Online, nor would it be the second time. Indeed, the saga of Ultima Online's canceled sequels is as torrid as it is steamy and lusty. Ignore the words in the previous sentence, as those are just to up the hits on search engines.

In our continuing series on the "what ifs?" of axed MMOs, we're going to head into a two-parter full of savage truth, dangerous decisions, and full-frontal nerdery. Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the saga of Ultima Online 2.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the What Ifs: Ultima Worlds Online: Origin

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the What Ifs: Ultima Worlds Online: Origin originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acasherons-callcataclysmdavid-swofforddeja-vudueleaelectronic-artseqeverquestfeaturedfull-frontal-nerderygamespotharry-potter-onlinehistoryjukalineagemeerpkpkingplayer-killingpvprichard-garriottsequelsequelssteampunkthe-game-archaeologisttrailerultima-onlineultima-online-2ultima-worlds-onlineultima-worlds-online-originuouo2uwouwoovideowing-commander-onlineWorld-of-WarcraftTue, 28 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: ARGO Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/first-impressions-argo-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/first-impressions-argo-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/first-impressions-argo-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ask any of the Massively staff and they will gladly tell you that I have a borderline obsessive fascination with all things steampunk (HNNNNGH!), so I was rather pleased when I found out that the subject of my next first impressions column was ARGO Online, which bills itself as a steampunk fantasy MMORPG. But of course, whether I'm borderline obsessive or not, a steampunk setting does not necessarily make a good game.

ARGO is very much what most expect out of a westernized Korean free-to-play MMO; it's rife with translation issues, grindy quests, and inadequately explained systems. But despite all of that, there are a few interesting features to be found buried in the sand. What are these features? And moreover, do they make the game worth playing? Follow past the cut to find out.

Continue reading First Impressions: ARGO Online

MassivelyFirst Impressions: ARGO Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alaplayaargoargo-onlinef2pfeaturedfirst-impressionsfree-to-playhands-onsteampunksteampunk-fantasySat, 25 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Does steampunk taint fantasy MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-daily-grind-does-steampunk-taint-fantasy-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-daily-grind-does-steampunk-taint-fantasy-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/the-daily-grind-does-steampunk-taint-fantasy-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

With the recent news that Guild Wars 2 is including a technologically savvy Engineer class, purists have come out in force to bring back up the long-running argument of steampunk themes in fantasy MMOs. To put it succinctly, some people are all right with it, and some consider it the most insidious plot to ruin lives since Enron.

I've heard this argument before, in many other places: World of Warcraft, RIFT, Warhammer Online, and Allods Online (to cite a few examples) all have elements of steampunk in an otherwise straight-forward fantasy setting, and some folks just don't care for it. Steampunk, to them, represents a jarring juxtaposition between the old and (semi-)new, and even suggests that the world is becoming outdated even as we play it.

So I'm curious today to know what you think. Yes, you, the person with the mismatching socks -- do you think steampunk elements taint fantasy MMOs, or can they coexist peacefully?

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: Does steampunk taint fantasy MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlinefantasyguild-wars-2gwgw2opinionriftsteampunktainttdgthe-daily-grindwarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 02 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your Steampunk on with a free City of Heroes booster pack from Massively!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/get-your-steampunk-on-with-a-free-city-of-heroes-booster-pack-fr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/get-your-steampunk-on-with-a-free-city-of-heroes-booster-pack-fr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/get-your-steampunk-on-with-a-free-city-of-heroes-booster-pack-fr/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The newest booster pack from City of Heroes arrives in the NCsoft store today, sending steampunk fans into a Victorian-style tizzy.

If you are one of those fans, we've got a little something to make both your character and your wallet very happy: free Steampunk Packs! The packs include new auras and emotes, more than 60 new costume pieces, and Steam Jump travel tower -- essentially a Victorian-style jetpack.

With so many new toys, the options seem endless, so we're going to ask you to get creative. We've got 15 of these packs to give away, and all you have to do to enter is leave a comment telling us what sort of steampunk ensemble you'll put together for your character. Will she or he make use of a few handy accessories or go full-on, head-to-toe steampunk? Will you roll a new character to fit the look from the ground up or revamp a current one? Will your toon play in-character with his or her look or just enjoy the accessories?

Tell us your plans for this pack before noon EDT tomorrow, June 2nd, and we'll draw 15 of the best ideas to win one of these packs. Make sure you check our contest rules and watch the video below for another look at what's in the pack. Good luck!

OFFICIAL RULES

Continue reading Get your Steampunk on with a free City of Heroes booster pack from Massively!

MassivelyGet your Steampunk on with a free City of Heroes booster pack from Massively! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booster-packcity-of-heroesCity-of-Villainscohcontestcontestscovcoxgiveawaygiveawaysncsoftparagonparagon-studiossteampunksteampunk-giveawaysteampunk-packsteampunk-pack-giveawayvideoWed, 01 Jun 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Steampunk it up with the City of Heroes devs on the new Keyes Island!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/steampunk-it-up-with-the-city-of-heroes-devs-on-the-new-keyes-is/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/steampunk-it-up-with-the-city-of-heroes-devs-on-the-new-keyes-is/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/steampunk-it-up-with-the-city-of-heroes-devs-on-the-new-keyes-is/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Good day, all you lovely ladies and debonair gentlemen of Paragon City and the Rogue Isles. Have you ever wanted to strap up your boots and petticoats and step onto the streets of the City of Heroes alongside those dashing developers at Paragon Studios? "Don't be ridiculous," you say. "Of course I have, you silly bugger."

Fortune is in your favor, my friends, because in but half a fortnight you'll have just such an opportunity as Paragon invites you to join some of its developers in testing the new Keyes Island Reactor. As if the chance to galavant about this delightful new zone with the fine folks behind City of Heroes weren't enough, by participating in this most delightful event you will also be entered into a drawing that will provide you the opportunity to acquire the upcoming Steampunk Pack and all of the charming brass bits that come with it. If you're interested in joining in on the joviality, then check out the official post for instructions.

MassivelySteampunk it up with the City of Heroes devs on the new Keyes Island! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 May 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcontestcovcoxkeyes-island-reactorncsoftparagonparagon-studiossteampunksteampunk-packTue, 24 May 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What aesthetic should we see more often?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/the-daily-grind-what-aesthetic-should-we-see-more-often/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/the-daily-grind-what-aesthetic-should-we-see-more-often/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/20/the-daily-grind-what-aesthetic-should-we-see-more-often/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Possibly showing our skewed priorities, most of the Massively staff launched into paroxysms of cooing at the unveiling of City of Heroes' Steampunk Pack. It's an aesthetic that's sadly underused within the MMO space -- we have a few hundred games that feature a vaguely European fantasy world but a decided lack of games with thick smoke, oil, and clockwork machinery. But steampunk isn't the only design aesthetic and general setting getting short shrift within the games we adore.

The modern "art deco" aesthetic of the 1950s. The lush jungle setting of South America during the reign of the Aztec and Mayan peoples. The bleak iron and hard edges of Soviet Russia. We've all got settings that we think would be a bit more interesting than yet another game with French castles and full-plate knights, so today we ask -- what would you like to see more frequently?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What aesthetic should we see more often? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 May 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-designart-directiondesignopinionsteampunktdgthe-daily-grindthemesvisualsFri, 20 May 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New developer diary on designing the Steampunk Pack for City of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/new-developer-diary-on-designing-the-steampunk-pack-for-city-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/new-developer-diary-on-designing-the-steampunk-pack-for-city-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/new-developer-diary-on-designing-the-steampunk-pack-for-city-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Pip pip, ladies and fellows alike! No doubt you saw the marvelous presentation of yesterday's fully cinemascoped "trailer" for the upcoming Steampunk Pack that will be delivered at the onset of June to a waiting audience in City of Heroes. But what formidable science was leveraged in the creation of these modern marvels of technology and ingenuity? Wonder no longer, for the fine staff and associates at Paragon Studios have put together a fortuitous dispatch describing the method behind these fantastic creations at the cutting edge of technology.

Cheryl Austin, a plucky lass responsible for many of the designs seen within the impressive piece of cinematography, discusses both the inspirations behind these marvelous designs and the subtle ways in which steam and clockwork mechanisms found their way into use. If you are one of the many kind souls within City of Heroes no doubt anticipating this costume set with bated breath, then by all means, peruse the words of the designer with all due haste!

MassivelyNew developer diary on designing the Steampunk Pack for City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 May 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artcheryl-austincity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdeveloper-diarydevelopmentncsoftparagonparagon-studiossteampunksteampunk-packThu, 19 May 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2's explosive seventh class: The Engineer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/guild-wars-2s-explosive-seventh-class-the-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/guild-wars-2s-explosive-seventh-class-the-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/guild-wars-2s-explosive-seventh-class-the-engineer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars and Guild Wars 2 fans, did you love the Commando class? Were you disappointed that it was all an elaborate joke? Did you love the idea of detonating bombs, flinging grenades, and setting mines in Guild Wars 2?

Well, this is going to be a good day for you, because ArenaNet has announced the seventh profession: the Engineer. While it's not the Commando class per se, the Engineer is described as "a master of mechanical mayhem" and looks to be the class that will fulfill all of your most explosive gameplay wishes.

Ready to check it out in depth? We've got five skill videos right in a row and a rundown of the Engineer's abilities, so follow along after the jump and let's take a look!

Continue reading Guild Wars 2's explosive seventh class: The Engineer

MassivelyGuild Wars 2's explosive seventh class: The Engineer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 May 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alchemyanetarenanetclassclass-revealengineerengineer-classfeaturedguild-wars-2guild-wars-2-engineergw2gw2-engineerncsoftpotionssteampunkturretturretsThu, 19 May 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes goes Victorian with new Steampunk Pack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/city-of-heroes-goes-victorian-with-new-steampunk-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/city-of-heroes-goes-victorian-with-new-steampunk-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/city-of-heroes-goes-victorian-with-new-steampunk-pack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ladies and gentlemen, may I kindly have your attention? If you've an interest in goggles and steamworks, a penchant for brass bits and clockwork automatons, and a flair for all things Victoriana, then City of Heroes is the place for you. Come the first of June, Paragon Studios will be offering players a riveting new booster pack full to the brim with extraordinary steampunk goodness.

Steam-powered jetpacks, Victorian duelling pistols, and even a magnificent mechanical pair of wings are all included in the Steampunk Pack, which will sell for $9.99 in the City of Heroes store. So gentlemen, wax your moustaches and strap up your boots while the ladies don their finest pneumatic parasols and waltz on past the cut for the official Steampunk Pack trailer.

Continue reading City of Heroes goes Victorian with new Steampunk Pack

MassivelyCity of Heroes goes Victorian with new Steampunk Pack originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxncsoftparagonparagon-studiossteampunksteampunk-packsuper-herosuperherotrailervideoWed, 18 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get your steampunk on with a model blaster from Massively and ARGO Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/get-your-steampunk-on-with-a-model-blaster-from-massively-and-ar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/get-your-steampunk-on-with-a-model-blaster-from-massively-and-ar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/get-your-steampunk-on-with-a-model-blaster-from-massively-and-ar/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Do you love all things steampunk? Have you been indulging that preference in ARGO Online? Well, that's about to pay off thanks to Massively's latest giveaway.

The ARGO Online development team has given us some awesome model blasters sure to delight any steampunk fan. The first prize winner will receive the Big Daddy, an 11.25-inch revolver complete with display stand. Three second prize winners will receive The Consolidator, a smaller raygun model, also with a display stand.

So what do you have to do to get your hands on one of these? Play some ARGO, of course! Send your best screenshot of steampunk gameplay in ARGO Online to rubi@massively.com by noon EDT on Monday, May 9th. Let us know what area of ARGO you took it in and what we're seeing, and we'll choose the four best on Monday and send each winner one of these deadly looking little beauties. In the meantime, check out our gallery below for a detailed look at your potential new toys. Please read our contest rules for eligibility information, and good luck to all!

Gallery: ARGO contest


OFFICIAL RULES

MassivelyGet your steampunk on with a model blaster from Massively and ARGO Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argoargo-onlinebig-daddyburda-icBurda:icconsolidatorcontestcontestsfree-to-playgiveawaygiveawayshnghraygunsteampunksteampunk-blastersteampunk-raygunFri, 06 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ARGO Online launch day is here]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/argo-online-launch-day-is-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/argo-online-launch-day-is-here/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/argo-online-launch-day-is-here/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

burda:ic has announced the official launch of its steampunk/sci-fi/fantasy hybrid ARGO Online. The free-to-play game is shedding its open beta skin and welcoming players to the 23rd century, according to a new press release that details everything the burgeoning title has to offer.

New ARGOnauts will take on the role of World War IV survivors, and they'll don their choice of two factional mantles (the tech-savvy Noblian or the nature-loving Floresslah) before embarking on a journey rife with quests, dungeons, and PvP.

ARGO Online features eight classes, traditional guild and auction house systems, as well as pet and achievement mechanics designed to immerse players in a unique F2P experience. Head to the game's official website for more info.

MassivelyARGO Online launch day is here originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alaplayaargoargo-onlineburdaburda-icf2pfantasyfree-to-playlaunch-daylaunchespost-apocalypticreleaserelease-daysci-fisteampunkThu, 21 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New ARGO Online trailer shows off Naihill content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/new-argo-online-trailer-shows-off-naihill-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/new-argo-online-trailer-shows-off-naihill-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/new-argo-online-trailer-shows-off-naihill-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

burda:ic has released the newest trailer for ARGO Online, the steampunk-fantasy MMO currently going through its open beta phase. The clip features footage from the newly discovered continent of Naihill, which has expanded ARGO's post-apocalyptic world and its content.

In addition to new lands (and dungeons) to explore, Naihill offers new PvP battles, new mounts, and new pets and is currently available for open beta participants to experience. The video clip clocks in at just under two and a half minutes and is composed of equal parts fly-through footage, PvE combat, and PvP action. See for yourself after the cut.

Continue reading New ARGO Online trailer shows off Naihill content

MassivelyNew ARGO Online trailer shows off Naihill content originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argoargo-onlineburdaburda-iccontinentexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playnaihillnew-continentnew-mountsnew-petspvpquestssci-fisteampunktrailervideoTue, 12 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kick it into overdrive: ARGO Online's open beta starts today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/kick-it-into-overdrive-argo-onlines-open-beta-starts-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/kick-it-into-overdrive-argo-onlines-open-beta-starts-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/kick-it-into-overdrive-argo-onlines-open-beta-starts-today/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Forget the Starship Enterprise -- the 23rd century apparently has more interesting tales to tell with a wild blend of steampunk and fantasy. If the world of ARGO Online has intrigued you, then you'll be a-jitter with excitement to know that burda:ic's latest title is going into open beta today.

The team's also posted a new interview with SongQwo, the head of ARGO Online's development. How does he feel about how it turned out? "I am very proud of the game. I'm actually quite popular -- for my kids and their friends and schoolmates I'm sort of a celebrity... And after the last steps of optimization, we think that ARGO became a quite nice game."

ARGO Online's been proceeding on course through a series of closed beta tests over the past few months, so the announcement of open beta is a good indication that the game is nearing launch. You can check it out for yourself by signing up at the official site.

MassivelyKick it into overdrive: ARGO Online's open beta starts today originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argoargo-onlinebetaburda-icburdaicclosed-betaenterpriseinterviewopen-betasongqwosteampunkFri, 08 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: Spiral Knights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/first-impressions-spiral-knights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/first-impressions-spiral-knights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/first-impressions-spiral-knights/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

If you were one of the lucky few who grabbed a Spiral Knights beta key recently, then you will appreciate the joy I feel when talking about this game. It's simply a toy -- a ray-gun or a tin robot. It does what it is supposed to do and does it on a variety of machines without many issues. It is mechanized fun, simple and to the point, yet somehow also endearing and even sweet.

Perhaps the tiny robots and adorably destructive weaponry implemented by the folks at Three Rings help to bind the game to our hearts, because I found myself worrying that the little robot I was aiding would never find the materials he needed to escape from the dreadful gearworks and steam engines I was forced to investigate.

Confused? Well, go log in and try it out or click past the cut to hear my explanation!

Continue reading First Impressions: Spiral Knights

MassivelyFirst Impressions: Spiral Knights originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmandungeon-crawlerf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpHack-and-Slashlobbymario-brotherspreviewpreviewspuzzlepuzzle-piratesrobotsspiral-knightssteamcutesteampunkthree-ringsSat, 26 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ARGO Online kicks off third closed beta phase]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/argo-online-kicks-off-third-closed-beta-phase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/argo-online-kicks-off-third-closed-beta-phase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/argo-online-kicks-off-third-closed-beta-phase/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Yesterday marked the successful completion of ARGO Online's second closed beta phase. Today, the sci-fi, steampunk, and fantasy-flavored free-to-play MMO kicks off phase three, which is slated to run through March 30th. If you've participated in any of the earlier phases, you're already registered and will be able to access the new beta using your pre-existing account credentials.

Phase three adds a guild system and an auction house to ARGO's post-apocalyptic world, and players will be able to continue testing all of the previously implemented systems. burda:ic has also released a few statistics from phase two of the beta, including the most popular Noblian class (the Explorer), the most popular Floresslah class (the Druid), and the distribution of Noblian vs. Floresslah players (51 percent to 49 percent). Check out the official ARGO Online website for more information or to sign up for beta.

MassivelyARGO Online kicks off third closed beta phase originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argoargo-onlineauction-housebetaburda:icclosed-betaclosed-beta-phase-3f2pfantasyfloresslahfloresslah-factionfree-to-playguild-systemnobliannoblian-factionpost-apocalypticsci-fisteampunkThu, 24 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2011: ARGO Online pits nature against technology]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/gdc-2011-argo-online-pits-nature-against-technology/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/gdc-2011-argo-online-pits-nature-against-technology/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/gdc-2011-argo-online-pits-nature-against-technology/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

If imaginative fiction has taught us anything, it's that the fun doesn't really begin until the world ends. Post-apocalyptic games are all the rage these days, from Earthrise to Fallen Earth, so it's not surprising to see another company throw its hat into the ring. Burda:ic may not be a household name, but it's hoping that its upcoming MMO, ARGO Online, will be.

Achim Kaspers, the managing director at burda:ic, was overflowing with information about ARGO's unique look and business model. ARGO is planned to be a free-to-play title, although Kaspers is well aware of the stigma that typically goes along with that. He admits that many F2P games are lacking in content or are grind-heavy, fates he hopes ARGO will avoid with thousands of quests, fluid combat animation and plenty of places to explore.

Billed as a "post-apocalyptic steampunk MMO," ARGO features a futuristic Earth divided between nature and technology. The Noblians are all over cool-looking steampunk devices and vehicles, while the Floresslah have united with nature to become its champions. We've been following ARGO since last year, so we're excited to hear that the title is scheduled to start its open beta tomorrow.

Hit the jump for more of the good word on ARGO from GDC as well as a special treat for Massively readers!

Gallery: ARGO Online

Continue reading GDC 2011: ARGO Online pits nature against technology

MassivelyGDC 2011: ARGO Online pits nature against technology originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Achim-Kaspersargoargo-onlineburda-icburdaiccraftingdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkness-fallsearthrisef2pfallen-earthfeaturedfishingfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygame-developers-conferencegdcgdc-2011professionspvpsteampunkvideoMon, 07 Mar 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the dragon of the deep dungeon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-dragon-of-the-deep-dungeon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-dragon-of-the-deep-dungeon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/21/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-dragon-of-the-deep-dungeon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Game Archaeologist is a lazy adventurer-slash-professor who dons his trademark cap for a weekly expedition through some of the most famous MMOs of the past few decades. Each month, he chooses a different title in order to examine its highlights, talk with its developers, and invite its fans to share their experiences.

Part of the holy mission of the Game Archaeologist is to ferret out the roots of history that ultimately led to MMORPGs as we know them today. Another part of the mission is to root out ferrets, as my claw-scarred arms can attest. Some of that history is fairly recent, but today we're going to travel back -- way back -- to a time before many of you were born. Including me, as a matter of fact.

The year is 1974. The world is hip-deep in the throes of shag carpeting, driftwood furniture and the strains of Grand Funk Railroad. It truly seemed like nothing would ever be cool or non-earth-toned again. At this, the lowest moment in all of history, game designers Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson took the concept of miniature wargaming, merged it with a fantasy motif, and sold it under the name Dungeons & Dragons. Geeks everywhere had a reason to rejoice, and through this roleplaying game the foundations for MMOs were laid.

Let's take a brief survey through D&D, giving special emphasis to how this great-granddaddy of RPGs passed down a legacy that we enjoy in our modern online titles. Also, there will be popcorn.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the dragon of the deep dungeon

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the dragon of the deep dungeon originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4th-editionbandicootcharacter-sheetscs-lewiscyberpunkdave-arnesondndDungeons-and-Dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinee.t.etfantasygary-gygaxgenregiant-spidersHello-Kittyhello-kitty-onlinehorrorjack-vancejrr-tolkienkirklord-of-the-ringslovecraftmichael-moorcockpen-and-paperrobert-e-howardroleplaying-gamerpgspace-elfspockstar-treksteampunkthe-game-archaeologistwesternxpTue, 21 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ARGO Online opens up closed beta signups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/argo-online-opens-up-closed-beta-signups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/argo-online-opens-up-closed-beta-signups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/argo-online-opens-up-closed-beta-signups/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Looking for something interesting to play on your older might-as-well-be-steam-powered computer? How about a free-to-play MMO? What if I said it was a hybrid steampunk post-apocalyptic sci-fi fantasy free-to-play MMO? If that sounds interesting then grab your keyboard, as the closed beta for ARGO Online is gearing up and burda:ic is looking for all manner of testers.

ARGO Online is a world torn by two factions -- the nature-loving Floresslah and the technology-based Noblians -- struggling to gain supremacy of what's left after dropping enormous bombs on each other. Among many of the things players can look forward to in the upcoming beta are classes like Bomber and Chaser, PvP challenges that will offer wide-ranging battles between hundreds of players at a time, a pet system, tradeskills, and more. The system requirements are also fairly low, which opens up the potential for more people to play. If you'd like more information or you want to sign up and lend a hand with testing, head over to the ARGO Online website and check it out.

MassivelyARGO Online opens up closed beta signups originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argoargo-onlineburda-icBurda:icf2pfantasyfloresslahfloresslah-factionfree-to-playmgamenobliannoblian-factionpost-apocalypticscifisteampunkMon, 06 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steampunk MMO ARGO Online launches teaser site]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/steampunk-mmo-argo-online-launches-teaser-site/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/steampunk-mmo-argo-online-launches-teaser-site/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/steampunk-mmo-argo-online-launches-teaser-site/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Steampunk MMORPGs are few and far between. In fact, aside from Gatheryn, we were hard-pressed to think of any.

Until today.

burda:ic GmbH, a German free-to-play publisher responsible for Avalon Heroes and Florensia, has issued a press release announcing the development of ARGO Online, a futuristic steampunk title featuring a variety of quests, PvP modes, professions, and a pet system. A new website has also been unveiled, and it boasts a teaser trailer for the Noblian (one of ARGO's factions).

Further details are somewhat sketchy at this point, but the game is slated for a Spring 2011 release, and we'll of course keep you posted on any and all developments.

MassivelySteampunk MMO ARGO Online launches teaser site originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementargoargo-onilneburdaburda-icf2pfree-to-playnobliannoblian-factionpetspvpquestssteampunktrailervideoWed, 01 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ARGO Online clanking towards the West]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/argo-online-clanking-towards-the-west/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/argo-online-clanking-towards-the-west/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/argo-online-clanking-towards-the-west/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When it comes to interesting combinations, how does the idea of a steampunk, sci-fi, fantasy, free-to-play title grab you? Interest piqued? Well, when we heard that ARGO Online will offer a combination of these varied things, our ears definitely perked up. Even better, burda:ic and MGame are partnering up to bring this diverse-mix MMO to the West in early 2011.

Set in a dark future, ARGO Online will drop players into a mishmashed world where these divergent themes will come together as the technologically advanced Noblians and nature-inspired Floresslah battle for supremacy. The game will feature eight different classes, traditional PvE questing, different PvP scenarios with a ranking system, achievements, and more. If you're curious for a look at this upcoming title, then be sure to check out the trailer behind the break. In the meantime, we'll be over here shining up our goggles and getting ready for some high-flying MMO fun on a blimp.

Continue reading ARGO Online clanking towards the West

MassivelyARGO Online clanking towards the West originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argoargo-onlineburda-icBurda:icf2pfantasyfree-to-playmgamepvepvpsci-fisteampunkFri, 17 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/massivelys-hands-on-with-rift-planes-of-telaras-dynamic-conte/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Just a few weeks ago, I was invited to attend Trion Worlds' Gamer's Day in San Francisco to get some hands-on time with a couple of the company's upcoming titles, including Rift: Planes of Telara. If Rift seems to have come out of nowhere, that might be due both to the acquisition of EverQuest II veteran Scott Hartsman to head the project as executive producer, and to a clever name change meant to reflect the team's shift in development focus.

In fact, that shift in development focus is precisely what I was at Trion's studio to test -- I got to check out the Rifts themselves in all their glory, in the context of the greater dynamic content system that the developers are so excited about. Massively's writers have been able to play and report on character creation and the starting areas of Rift several times over the last year or so, including earlier this summer at E3. But until today's embargo lift (coinciding with the reveal at Gamescom), no one had quite seen the fabled planar invasions and takeovers in action.

Now we have.

Continue reading Massively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content

MassivelyMassively's hands-on with Rift: Planes of Telara's dynamic content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementAchievementsaddonsalphaalpha-testbattlegroundsbuildscallingCapture-the-flagcharacter-creationcharge-barclericclunkcollectionCollectionscraftingdefiantDemodynamic-contentEarth-Elementalelementalistepic-mountfeaturedfootholdfootholdsgallerygloamwoodgraphicsgroupgroupinggroupsguardianhealershealinghell-levelsheroes-of-telaraholy-city-of-sanctuminstanceinstancesinterfaceinvasionjumpingjust-say-no-to-hell-levelslootmapmapsminimapmodsp2ppay-to-playpetsphilosophyplaneplanesplanes-of-telarapublic-questspvpquestingrealm-of-the-faerespecresurrectionriftrift-planes-of-telarariftsscott-hartsmanscreenshotsshadowlandssoul-walkSteamPunkstrategerystrategysubscriptionswimmingtalent-treestalentstavril-plazatelaratrailertriontrion-worldsUIvideowarfrontwarfrontsWed, 18 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring (the rest of) Eberron]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/exploring-the-rest-of-eberron/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/exploring-the-rest-of-eberron/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/exploring-the-rest-of-eberron/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

By the time you read this, I'll be scampering about GenCon in Indianapolis, thick in the middle of four days of gaming and geekery. Don't weep for me, for I am already gone! One of my hopes for this weekend is to reconnect with pen-and-paper RPGs, a part of my gaming life that has almost withered into nothingness.

That got me thinking about Eberron -- the D&D campaign in which DDO is set. You don't hear DDO players fussing about it so much any more (people either made their peace with it or moved on), but way back when, the Eberron setting was a fairly controversial choice for Turbine to make. After all, there are dozens upon dozens of campaign settings, including some (like Forgotten Realms or Dragonlance) that most people associate with the franchise.

Eberron, on the other hand, was a relatively wet-behind-the-ears upstart with a quirky setting that can best be described as "Indiana Jones meets steampunk meets flashy, practical magic." Personally, I've grown to like the campaign, and I want to take a look at how the pen-and-paper version was constructed, how the Eberron setting shines in DDO, and how Turbine could be using it more.

Continue reading Exploring (the rest of) Eberron

MassivelyExploring (the rest of) Eberron originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artificerbaldurs-gatechangelingsclassesdaelkyr-half-bloodsddodruiddungeons-and-dragonseberronexploring-eberronfeaturedfilm-noirgnomeshalf-orckalashtarkhovairekieth-bakerneverwinter-nightspsiforgedpsionicspsychicpsychic-warriorpulp-adventurepulp-fictionracesshifterssoulknifesteampunkstormreachtheres-no-race-like-gnometurbinewarforgedWizards-of-the-CoastxendrikFri, 06 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Agenda on sale at Steam just in time for Sandstorm patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/global-agenda-on-sale-at-steam-just-in-time-for-sandstorm-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/global-agenda-on-sale-at-steam-just-in-time-for-sandstorm-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/global-agenda-on-sale-at-steam-just-in-time-for-sandstorm-patch/#commentsFiled under: ,

Hi-Rez Studios has been busy since the launch of Global Agenda -- and they've been even busier preparing the Sandstorm patch. Patch 1.3 is being released in stages, and if the buzz surrounding it was enough to get you interested, then this is the perfect time to buy.

Hi-Rez has announced a sale on Global Agenda in anticipation of the patch: The first phase of Global Agenda's major new Sandstorm patch arrives shortly. Get prepared by buying the game on Steam for 25% off (that's $29.99/₤18.74/€22.49).

The sale is listed as this week only, so you've got several more days to pick the game up for yourself and convince your friends to join you!

MassivelyGlobal Agenda on sale at Steam just in time for Sandstorm patch originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 May 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>global-agendaglobal-agenda-patch-1.3global-agenda-salehi-rezhi-rez-studiossandstormsandstorm-patchSteamPunkMon, 24 May 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Virtual Whirl: Vox virtualis]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/08/the-virtual-whirl-vox-virtualis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/08/the-virtual-whirl-vox-virtualis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/08/the-virtual-whirl-vox-virtualis/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A change is as good as a holiday, they say. Seriously, I don't actually know anyone who says this other than myself; though I'm assured that there are some folks out there who do.

With that tragically underutilized platitude in mind, then, last week I posed a question to a spread of well-known virtual environment users (at least to those that I felt would actually respond) and collected the responses.

The question put to the respondents was "What's the single thing that the operators/developers could do to make you feel more satisfied with their virtual environment offering; what thing would help an operator keep you as a customer, or that would make some other operator more appealing than the one or ones you already have?"

Continue reading The Virtual Whirl: Vox virtualis

MassivelyThe Virtual Whirl: Vox virtualis originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 May 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-technologiesblue-marscaledoncaledoniaculturedesmond-shangeducationfeaturedgentle-herongwyneth-llewelynignatius-onomatopoeialinden-prizemarianne-mccannmitch-kaporopensimopinionordinal-malaproppopcapsecond-lifesteampunkthe-virtual-whirlvirtual-abilityvirtual-worldsSat, 08 May 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Remnants of Skystone launches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/remnants-of-skystone-launches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/remnants-of-skystone-launches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/remnants-of-skystone-launches/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you've been waiting for a hearty fix of Steampunk in your gaming life, Remnants of Skystone may have what you crave. After a couple years of development and testing by Flipline Studios, this quirky 2D browser MMO just launched on Kongregate, and so far, it's looking solid.

Players can choose between three classes: the steam-shooting Aeronauts, the blade-wielding Ferric or the whip-lashing Crags. Character creation is simple and painless, with a decent if not overwhelming selection of visual options. After that point, players enter this unique world full of Victorian gadgets and fashion to fight an alien threat that has taken over the world.

Continue reading Remnants of Skystone launches

MassivelyRemnants of Skystone launches originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flipline-studioshousingKongregatelaunchremnants-of-skystoneskystonesteampunkTue, 23 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC10: First look at Divine Souls]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/gdc10-first-look-at-divine-soul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/gdc10-first-look-at-divine-soul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/14/gdc10-first-look-at-divine-soul/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What, you've never heard of Divine Souls? You Philistine! Actually, it's not the public school system that has failed you here -- Divine Souls is only now crossing the waters of the Pacific (and Atlantic) in its worldwide debut. Created by Korean development studio Game Prix under the title of St. Soul, the renamed Divine Souls is being brought over to North America and Europe through an agreement with publisher Outspark.

Divine Souls's makeup is part steampunk, part brawler, part co-op, and part traditional MMORPG, so don't expect the normal routine in this one -- it actually feels more of a hybrid of several MMOs. Massively sat down with the game at last week's GDC to put this title through its paces.

Channel your inner Karate Kid, and hit the jump for the full scoop!

Continue reading GDC10: First look at Divine Souls

MassivelyGDC10: First look at Divine Souls originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 14 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlinebrawlercombosdivine-souldivine-soulsdungeonfeaturedfightergatheryngdcgdc-2010gdc2010guild-warssteampunkworld-of-warcraftSun, 14 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neo Steam versus the volcano]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/23/neo-steam-versus-the-volcano/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/23/neo-steam-versus-the-volcano/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/23/neo-steam-versus-the-volcano/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


One of the many new free-to-play games launched last year, Neo Steam kind of got lost in the shuffle among several other contenders, but that hasn't stopped it from gaining a following. Plus, it's about as close as you're going to get for the time being to a true steampunk MMO, which is something that's going to vary in importance depending on how much players like things that are awesome. We've recently gotten word on a major content update for the game, featuring the last-known source of the eponymous Neo Steam that fuels much of the game's technology: Rope Isle.

Covered in jungle and active volcanoes, Rope Isle would be a fairly easy romp toward the precious steam if not for the fact that the island already has inhabitants who aren't pleased with the idea of anyone else coming in. Since they're unlikely to respond to a reasonable discussion about the demands of industrialized economy, Neo Steam players can expect to be pitted against a difficult battle. The update will also increase the level cap to 70 and two new battlefields, to help hone players and improve their skills for the dangerous island.

MassivelyNeo Steam versus the volcano originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentneo-steamneo-steam-the-shattered-continentpatchesrope-islesteampunkthings-that-are-awesomeupdatesSat, 23 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What happened to Gatheryn?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/rumor-the-steampunk-mmo-gatheryn-is-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/rumor-the-steampunk-mmo-gatheryn-is-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/rumor-the-steampunk-mmo-gatheryn-is-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

We've recently received a tip-off to a lack of communication from the developers of the social steampunk MMO, Gatheryn, in recent months, signaling what could be the collapse of the game.

The website is still up and running, but the closed beta signup page has vanished, the download game link is broken, and the game's servers are down for the count. Players are asking for assistance or information on what's going on with the game on the beta forums, but things are very, very silent.

The current forum rumor (must have forum access to read link) is that Mindfuse Games has run out of funding and is shutting down the game, but that rumor has been posted by a forum account that only has one post and does not possess a developer tag, making the rumor extremely unverified.

We have contacted Mindfuse Games for comment, but have yet to receive a response.

[Thanks for the tip, Torsten!]

MassivelyWhat happened to Gatheryn? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-forumsbreakingclosed-betaforumsgatherynisa-anne-stamosmindfuse-gamesmini-gamesno-communicationrumorserver-downtimesteampunksunsetThu, 07 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST