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 Firing Line: Hands-on with Heroes & Generals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-firing-line-hands-on-with-heroes-and-generals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-firing-line-hands-on-with-heroes-and-generals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-firing-line-hands-on-with-heroes-and-generals/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - Hands on with Heroes & Generals
During the first 10 minutes of my time with Heroes & Generals, I killed once, died twice, and drove a tank, a jeep, a half-track, and a bicycle (not necessarily in that order). I also rode shotgun on said tank and said jeep, manning a nifty vehicle-mounted machine gun in the process.

I marveled at the visuals, took way too many screenshots of my squadmates looking at the blow-away badass in-game map (it's the little things, amirite?), and generally had a helluva good time. Did I mention that all of this happened in a browser?

Continue reading The Firing Line: Hands-on with Heroes & Generals

MassivelyThe Firing Line: Hands-on with Heroes & Generals originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedf2pfeaturedfiring-linefirst-impressionsfpsfree-to-playgeneralsheroesheroes-and-generalsheroes-and-generals-impressionsimpressionsjesper-kydmmo-shootermmofpsopinionpersistent-shooterpvpreto-motostrategytflthe-firing-linethird-person-shootertpsworld-war-2world-war-iiww2Fri, 25 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Command & Conquer: Tiberium Alliance browser title launches today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/command-and-conquer-tiberium-alliance-browser-title-launches-toda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/command-and-conquer-tiberium-alliance-browser-title-launches-toda/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/command-and-conquer-tiberium-alliance-browser-title-launches-toda/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Command & Conquer: Tiberium Alliances trailer
Command & Conquer fans, today's a banner day. The latest entry in the long-running franchise is Tiberium Alliances, a free-to-play browser-based title that's now available. You can pick from either the Global Defense Initiative or Nod factions, then harvest resources, build giant armies, and foster strategic alliances as you will your side to ultimate victory.

Players can take on the AI or each other, and TA's integrated status and news feeds makes it easier than ever to keep abreast of both in-game happenings and development rumblings. The game can be played on your desktop, your smartphone, or your tablet. Head to the official website to sign up and get started. Don't forget to check out the launch trailer after the break, and look for Massively's impressions on the game later this week in MMObility.

[Source: Electronic Arts press release]

Continue reading Command & Conquer: Tiberium Alliance browser title launches today

MassivelyCommand & Conquer: Tiberium Alliance browser title launches today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedCommand-and-Conquereaelectronic-artsf2pfree-to-playlaunchesmmortsrtssci-fistrategytiberium-alliancestrailervideoThu, 24 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Summoner's Guidebook: Upping my kill-death ratio]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-summoners-guidebook-upping-my-kill-death-ratio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-summoners-guidebook-upping-my-kill-death-ratio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-summoners-guidebook-upping-my-kill-death-ratio/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

League of Legends screenshot
Those of you who have been reading WRUP know that I've been playing a lot of Kassadin lately. He's an assassin with a very high skill cap, and he's ridiculously powerful in Dominion. Kassadin is also kind of hard to play. He has a lot of strange mechanics, and his powerful tricks are somewhat unintuitive. Recently, I had a small epiphany that dramatically improved my skill. This improvement improved more than just my Kassadin game; it boosted my overall skill level with every champion in League of Legends.

Before I made this development, I was performing terribly. I ended up playing a lot of bot matches because I felt my execution with Kassadin was really awful, and every time I went back to PvP games, I felt more and more behind. Suddenly, after a string of bad decisions cost me a match, I realized something I was doing wrong and went on to begin dominating. I went from getting focused down early every fight to utterly demolishing teams and causing enemy players to second-guess fighting me 1v1 even with both of us full on life. What's the secret, you ask? I'd like to tell you, so read on!

Continue reading The Summoner's Guidebook: Upping my kill-death ratio

MassivelyThe Summoner's Guidebook: Upping my kill-death ratio originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceassassinf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguidekassadinleagueleague-of-legendslearn-to-playlearning-from-your-mistakeslolmobaopinionriftwalkriotriot-gamesstrategysummoners-guidebookthe-summoners-guidebookThu, 12 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wakfu releases Monk Island, new teaser]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/wakfu-releases-monk-island-new-teaser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/wakfu-releases-monk-island-new-teaser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/wakfu-releases-monk-island-new-teaser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Wakfu - Monk Island
Ankama is updating Wakfu today with a content drop called Monk Island. There's a dev diary on the game's official website that provides a bit of detail, including information about religious fanatics, a new dungeon, and all of the mystery you would expect from a secluded island.

Here's the scoop for those not familiar with Wakfu: It's a fantasy sandbox title that makes up the MMORPG portion of a global cross-media IP. It's based in the same universe as Ankama's Dofus MMO, and it features many of the same classes and professions.

Ankama has released a brief Monk Island teaser trailer that shows the Messaround Monastery as well as a bit of combat action. You'll find it after the cut.

Continue reading Wakfu releases Monk Island, new teaser

MassivelyWakfu releases Monk Island, new teaser originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaf2pfree-to-playmonk-islandmonk-island-videopoliticssandboxsesquare-enixsquenixstrategystrategy-mmosubsubscriptionteaserturn-based-combatvideowakfuTue, 10 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LeKool kickstarts Star Supremacy closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/lekool-kickstarts-star-supremacy-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/lekool-kickstarts-star-supremacy-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/lekool-kickstarts-star-supremacy-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Supremacy battle screen
Star Supremacy's closed beta is officially live. The free-to-play browser-based space war MMO kicked off its testing phase last night, and LeKool Games says the game brings something unique to the crowded F2P market.

That something is ship customization. "No two ships will be identical," according to the company's press release. Star Supremacy is a hybrid 4X/multiplayer title set in the distant future, and it features three human factions battling across the stars for control over scarce resources and vast wealth. More info and beta signups are available on the game's official website.

[Source: LeKool Games press release]

MassivelyLeKool kickstarts Star Supremacy closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4xbetaclosed-betaf2pfree-to-playinternet-spaceshipslekoollekool-gamesspacestar-supremacystrategySun, 01 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zandagort indie MMORTS features 'finite servers']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/zandagort-indie-mmorts-features-finite-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/zandagort-indie-mmorts-features-finite-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/zandagort-indie-mmorts-features-finite-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Zandagort interface
Looking for an indie game to satisfy that online sci-fi strategy itch? Zandagort just might be the one. Or it might not, but seeing as how it's free-to-play, you don't have much to lose. The title is the brainchild of Hungary-based Zanda Games, and it's a browser MMORTS that features tactical starship maneuvers, a vibrant economy, and diverse gameplay options that touch on everything from trade to warfare to ecology.

What's with the name? Zandagort is a malevolent alien ruler who serves as the game's antagonist, and he's also a literal bit of endgame, according to the game's website. The title features something called finite servers, and "Zandagort arrives at the end of each server to destroy mankind. Players who were enemies before have to collaborate to prevail," Zanda says.

If that sounds interesting, give it a whirl and let us know what you think. Don't forget to tip us about other indie MMO projects while you're at it.

[Thanks to Jergis for the tip!]

MassivelyZandagort indie MMORTS features 'finite servers' originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfinite-serversfree-to-playindie-mmoindie-mmosmmortsreal-time-strategyrtssci-fistrategyzanda-gameszandagortThu, 29 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: A few bad design apples ruin the whole bunch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/mmobility-a-few-bad-design-apples-ruin-the-whole-bunch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/mmobility-a-few-bad-design-apples-ruin-the-whole-bunch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/mmobility-a-few-bad-design-apples-ruin-the-whole-bunch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ministry of War artwork
The MMORTS genre is easily one of my favorite genres. There's so much potential in a game that is essentially a giant, endless boardgame with thousands of players. An epic scale occurs in even the smallest of titles because players control not only one or two grand heroes but entire armies that swarm from sprawling cities. Though many of Massively's readers might not hear a lot from the genre, I believe this genre to be one of the most popular out there. Browser-based access doesn't hurt, either, and generally the MMORTS titles I find do a great job of covering their design bases.

You know I have to play Devil's Advocate, however. Despite the fact that the genre is packed full of potentially wonderful gaming sessions, there is so, so much that needs to improve. The negative stereotypes exist for a reason, and I want to shine a light on a few of the more popular titles to show just how one or two bad design and business decisions might reflect poorly on the entire genre.

Continue reading MMObility: A few bad design apples ruin the whole bunch

MassivelyMMObility: A few bad design apples ruin the whole bunch originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriabeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedevonyf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpgolden-ageministry-of-warmmobilitymmortsmobileopinionsnail-gamesstrategyFri, 23 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Drink, dice, and debauch with new Wakfu gameplay videos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/drink-dice-and-debauch-with-new-wakfu-gameplay-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/drink-dice-and-debauch-with-new-wakfu-gameplay-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/drink-dice-and-debauch-with-new-wakfu-gameplay-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Pick a card, any card.
Drinking and gambling go together like peanut butter and jelly, so it's only appropriate that today's new Wakfu gameplay videos set the focus on the Pandawa's Pint and Ecaflip's Coin classes. The Pandawa class, as its name would imply, is a class consisting entirely of anthropomorphic pandas with an affinity for bamboo milk and bar-room brawls. The Pandawa's Pint class "will lift both allies and enemies off their feet," but the distinction lies in how they go about putting them down.

Meanwhile, members of the Ecaflip's Coin class take a page out of Harvey Dent's book and live life by the flip of a coin. Luck is the name of the game for these devoted gamblers, and they're more than willing to let their lives ride on the roll of the dice as long as a chance at victory is still in the cards, and when you make your own luck, it always is.

To see these two classes in the heat of action, just grab a drink, take a seat at the table, and let the dice roll. Or, you know, just click past the cut.

[Source: Ankama Games press release]

Continue reading Drink, dice, and debauch with new Wakfu gameplay videos

MassivelyDrink, dice, and debauch with new Wakfu gameplay videos originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaclassclassesecaflipecaflips-coinf2pfree-to-playgameplay-videogameplay-videospandawapandawas-pintpoliticssandboxsesquare-enixsquenixstrategystrategy-mmosubsubscriptionturn-based-combatvideovideoswakfuWed, 21 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RuneScape bonus XP weekend generates workshops, strategy videos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/runescape-bonus-xp-weekend-generates-workshops-strategy-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/runescape-bonus-xp-weekend-generates-workshops-strategy-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/runescape-bonus-xp-weekend-generates-workshops-strategy-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RuneScape
If there's one thing we've learned about the RuneScape community, it's that these players are very, very serious about bonus XP weekends -- so serious, in fact, that there are forum threads, workshops, and videos devoted to helping players get the most out of these events.

Starting tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. EDT, RuneScape will be throwing open the gates to a truly insane bonus XP weekend. Unlike most MMOs that try such events, RuneScape won't just slather a steady percentage increase all over players' XP bars. Instead, players will log in to find that their first half-hour of play has a 2.7x multiplier for training activities, and then every 30 minutes after that the rate will decrease until it bottoms out at 1.1x for the remainder of the weekend.

The bonus XP will go away on Monday at 8:00 a.m. EDT, and if you want some tips on how best to maximize this opportunity, hit the jump to watch one of the aforementioned help videos. What, you thought we were joking?

[Source: Jagex press release]

Continue reading RuneScape bonus XP weekend generates workshops, strategy videos

MassivelyRuneScape bonus XP weekend generates workshops, strategy videos originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpbonus-xp-weekendbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playguidejagexjagex-games-studiorsrunescapesandboxstrategyvideovideo-guideworkshopworkshopsxp-bonus-weekendThu, 15 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Make your nation proud with Wakfu's newest dev diary]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/massively-exclusive-make-your-nation-proud-with-wakfus-newest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/massively-exclusive-make-your-nation-proud-with-wakfus-newest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/massively-exclusive-make-your-nation-proud-with-wakfus-newest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Wakfu
Now that Ankama Games' tactical MMORPG Wakfu is live and operational, it's probably about time for players to start getting familiar with the World of Twelve. Thankfully, the fine folks over at Ankama have provided us with a brand-new dev diary to help players to wrap their heads around the nations and territories of Wakfu.

For the uninitiated, the World of Twelve is the shared universe of Wakfu and its predecessor, Dofus. Lots has happened in the World of Twelve since the time of Dofus, however. Most importantly, a daft ogre by the name of Ogrest (presumably the older brother of Ogre and Ogrer) gathered the six primordial Dofus and used their overwhelming power to devastate the world, drowning all but seven major island nations beneath the sea. It's up to players to run these remaining nations and restore the World of Twelve to its former power.

Of course, it can't all be sunshine and butterflies between the seven nations; we need a reason to kill each other! Aside from the seven main islands, there are also a number of smaller islands that contain valuable -- and sometimes exclusive -- resources. The seven nations, of course, all want to claim these precious goods for their own. Players will have to represent their nations in the battle for these minor, resource-rich islands in order to bring prosperity and bragging rights to their respective homelands.

So there you have it, Wakfuians (that's totally a word, we promise). Now click past the cut for the full dev diary video, then get out there and make your countries proud!

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Make your nation proud with Wakfu's newest dev diary

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Make your nation proud with Wakfu's newest dev diary originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamadev-diariesdev-diaryf2pfree-to-playnationnationspoliticssandboxsesquare-enixsquenixstrategystrategy-mmosubsubscriptionterritoriesterritoryturn-based-combatvideovideoswakfuMon, 12 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Have a bloody good time with Wakfu's Sacrier and Xelor classes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/have-a-bloody-good-time-with-wakfus-sacrier-and-xelor-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/have-a-bloody-good-time-with-wakfus-sacrier-and-xelor-classes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/have-a-bloody-good-time-with-wakfus-sacrier-and-xelor-classes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Wakfu
Ankama Games' quirky tactical MMORPG Wakfu went live about a week ago, but the studio is continuing its steady drip of promotional material. Today Ankama is giving players not one but two new videos highlighting a couple of the game's classes. In the red corner, we have the Sacrier class. These bloodthirsty berserkers channel pain into power and will stop at nothing to ensure that their enemy doesn't make it out alive.

Meanwhile, in the blue corner, we have the Xelor class, which brings the power of chronomancy to the table. Thanks to their ability to expertly manipulate the flow of time, the disciples of Xelor are a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. To see the Sacrier and Xelor classes in action, check out both new videos after the cut.

Continue reading Have a bloody good time with Wakfu's Sacrier and Xelor classes

MassivelyHave a bloody good time with Wakfu's Sacrier and Xelor classes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamaclassclassesf2pfree-to-playpoliticssacriersacriers-bloodsandboxsesquare-enixsquenixstrategystrategy-mmosubsubscriptiontrailertrailersturn-based-combatvideovideoswakfuxelorxelors-sandglassWed, 07 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: A bit of Wakfu, a smidge of Spiral Knights, and some Lime Odyssey]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/rise-and-shiny-a-bit-of-wakfu-a-smidge-of-spiral-knights-and-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/rise-and-shiny-a-bit-of-wakfu-a-smidge-of-spiral-knights-and-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/rise-and-shiny-a-bit-of-wakfu-a-smidge-of-spiral-knights-and-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Rise and Shiny banner
This week in Rise and Shiny, things did not go as planned. This sort of thing actually happens often enough to almost be a problem: I pick out a title or am tasked with taking a look at a certain game, but communication lines are crossed and the game I was supposed to give a first impressions-style look at closes down its beta in the middle of the week. Like I said, it does happen, enough to force me to plan out my articles on a month-long calendar. Even then, things can change.

So instead of talking about the game I said I was going to be this week, Seven Souls Online, I decided to go over the three games that I gleefully jumped into over the last few days. This will not be a typical first impression-style piece but instead will hint at the specific adventures I had while playing these games.

These wonderful, wonderful games.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: A bit of Wakfu, a smidge of Spiral Knights, and some Lime Odyssey

MassivelyRise and Shiny: A bit of Wakfu, a smidge of Spiral Knights, and some Lime Odyssey originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesankamabeau-hindmanf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playftphands-onlime-odysseypoliticsrise-and-shinyryzomsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisegaspiral-knightsSquare-Enixsquenixsteamstrategystrategy-mmosubsubscriptionthree-ringsthree-rings-designturn-based-combatwakfuSun, 04 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jump into Black Prophecy's past with gamigo's Nexus Conflict]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/jump-into-black-prophecys-past-with-gamigos-nexus-conflict/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/jump-into-black-prophecys-past-with-gamigos-nexus-conflict/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/jump-into-black-prophecys-past-with-gamigos-nexus-conflict/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Nexus Conflict
The world of Black Prophecy hasn't always been like it is today. In the past, the Second Species Wars raged between the cybernetically augmented Tyi and the genetically modified Genides who fought for control of an area known as the Nexus, where universes collide. In a press release today, gamigo AG announced that its new title, Nexus Conflict, will allow players to take a trip back in time to participate in these wars not behind the controls of a fighter ship but on the command bridge of a colossal battle cruiser.

Nexus Conflict is being billed as a "tactical real-time strategy game," and players will be able to run it right in their browsers thanks to the Unity engine. The title will offer both PvE and PvP missions, meaning that there will be something for the co-operative and competitive crowds alike. And of course, players will be able to customize their ships with a variety of upgrades in order to turn them into the biggest, baddest, planet-blowing-up-est starships in the Nexus.

If this sounds like your idea of a good time, then just head on over to the Nexus Conflict official site (linked below) to sign up for the game's beta test, which is scheduled to begin in March.

[Source: gamigo AG press release]

MassivelyJump into Black Prophecy's past with gamigo's Nexus Conflict originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfree-to-playgamigo-agmmortsnewnew-titlenew-titlesnexus-conflictreal-time-strategyrtssci-fiscience-fictionstrategyMon, 27 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ancient and modern clash in new 8Realms trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/ancient-and-modern-clash-in-new-8realms-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/ancient-and-modern-clash-in-new-8realms-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/ancient-and-modern-clash-in-new-8realms-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Concept Art -- 8Realms
Jagex, creator of the hit browser-based MMO RuneScape, is fixing to break out its latest title: the social empire-building strategy title 8Realms. In 8Realms, players are put in charge of an ancient, primitive civilization, and they're responsible for raising their nascent society into a far-reaching, world-spanning empire. Whether they accomplish this goal through warfare, diplomacy, or other means is up to them. To get a taste of the kind of absurdity you can expect from 8Realms, click on past the cut for a new trailer, then click on over to the official site to build your own empire. Just be sure to watch out for predatory automobiles.

[Source: Jagex press release]

Continue reading Ancient and modern clash in new 8Realms trailer

MassivelyAncient and modern clash in new 8Realms trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8realmsbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfree-to-playhow-delightfully-absurdjagexpredatory-jeepssocialstrategytrailervideovideosTue, 07 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jagged Alliance Online adds in PvP for testers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/jagged-alliance-online-adds-in-pvp-for-testers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/jagged-alliance-online-adds-in-pvp-for-testers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/jagged-alliance-online-adds-in-pvp-for-testers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

He shot my bike? He shot my bike! Why are you negotiating with the man who just shot my bike?!
If you've been playing in the closed beta of Jagged Alliance Online thus far, the "Online" portion of that name has probably seemed to be something of a misnomer. Beta testers have been exploring the game mechanics from the point of set missions against AI opponents, but that's all about to change. Cliffhanger Productions and gamigo have just unveiled the game's new multiplayers modes, with three different modes and six different maps for players to take up arms against one another.

The three modes consist of Deathmatch (self-explanatory), Bounty Hunter (a race to fight to a target and be the first to kill said target), and Search and Destroy (destroy three targets while protecting your own). Players will be matched via a matchmaker system based upon levels and position in the overall rankings, preventing unfair matches (in theory) and giving good players more substantive rewards for success. If you've got a need for some online turn-based strategy, it might be well worth keeping an eye on these features at they develop.

[Source: gamigo press release]

MassivelyJagged Alliance Online adds in PvP for testers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacliffhanger-productionsclosed-betaf2pfree-to-playgamigojagged-alliance-onlinejaonew-titlespvppvp-modesstrategytestingturn-based-strategyupcoming-titlesupdatesMon, 16 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Empires Online readying skirmish mode, new booster pack]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/age-of-empires-online-readying-skirmish-mode-new-booster-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/age-of-empires-online-readying-skirmish-mode-new-booster-pack/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/age-of-empires-online-readying-skirmish-mode-new-booster-pack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Age of Empires skirmish video
Age of Empires Online is getting a skirmish mode courtesy of the upcoming Skirmish Hall booster pack. The new gameplay will allow players to team up and fight AI opponents in pursuit of experience and loot.

Skirmish mode will pit you and a friend (or computer ally) against four computer-controlled enemies, and each AI can take on a variety of different playstyles. Each style is represented by a unique leader, and there are eight of these to choose from.

Also of note is the fact that skirmish mode unlocks all of the game's units regardless of your overall level. If you want to preview some powerful Age of Empires units that are hidden away behind hours of advancement gameplay, skirmish mode is the way to go. Check out the skirmish mode trailer after the break for more details.

Continue reading Age of Empires Online readying skirmish mode, new booster pack

MassivelyAge of Empires Online readying skirmish mode, new booster pack originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-empiresage-of-empires-onlineaibooster-packcomputer-allycomputer-enemymicrosoftmmortsReal-Time-Strategyrtsskirmishskirmish-hallstrategytrailerunitsvideoWed, 11 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyfort releases sci-fi MMORTS Light of Nova]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/joyfort-releases-sci-fi-mmorts-light-of-nova/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/joyfort-releases-sci-fi-mmorts-light-of-nova/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/joyfort-releases-sci-fi-mmorts-light-of-nova/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Light of Nova
A new MMORTS bursts onto the scene as Joyfort releases its latest title, Light of Nova. The title takes place in a sci-fi universe "thousands of years in the future after humans have colonized outer space." Players are tasked with building the ultimate spacefaring armada, destroying their enemies, and uncovering the mysteries of the universe through the game's storyline. For the full details on this new F2P title and to get in on the action for yourself, just click below to go to Light of Nova's official site.

MassivelyJoyfort releases sci-fi MMORTS Light of Nova originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playjoyfortlaunchlauncheslight-of-novammortsreal-time-strategyrtssci-fispacestrategyWed, 21 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iOS MMO Lords at War to launch this Friday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/new-iphone-and-ipad-mmo-lords-at-war-to-launch-this-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/new-iphone-and-ipad-mmo-lords-at-war-to-launch-this-friday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/new-iphone-and-ipad-mmo-lords-at-war-to-launch-this-friday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Lords at War
Veraxon Entertainment announced today that its new free-to-play iPad and iPhone title, Lords at War, will launch this Friday. The title is a resource-management strategy game that takes place in the World of Midgard, where a war between the factions of Alliance and Fury is taking place. Players will have to build up a city, raise an army, and go to war for their faction of choice. The title is available on iOS this Friday.

MassivelyiOS MMO Lords at War to launch this Friday originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playiosipadiphonelords-at-warmobileresource-managementstrategyveraxonveraxon-entertainmentWed, 14 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[End of Nations unveils warfare screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/end-of-nations-unveils-warfare-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/end-of-nations-unveils-warfare-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/end-of-nations-unveils-warfare-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- End of Nations
The End of Nations is upon us! Well, not really, but Trion Worlds has revealed a new batch of screenshots focusing on -- what else -- mass warfare. The screens give players a glimpse of the maps of which they'll be vying for control. Also on display are many of the units available to the game's three factions, including tanks, artillery, scouting vehicles, and more. For all of the freshly pressed screenshots, just click on through the gallery below.

[Source: Trion Worlds press release]

Gallery: End of Nations

MassivelyEnd of Nations unveils warfare screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>end-of-nationseonf2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymmortspetroglyphreal-time-strategyrtsscreenshotscreenshotsstrategytriontrion-worldsunitswarfareFri, 18 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Introducing Shadowrun Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/introducing-shadowrun-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/introducing-shadowrun-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/introducing-shadowrun-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Shadowrun Online
Cliffhanger Productions, the makers of the upcoming Jagged Alliance Online, has announced another title in progress: Shadowrun Online. Based on the popular pen-and-paper game, Shadowrun will share a similar top-down strategy format with Jagged Alliance. Shadowrun takes place in a dystopian 2070 where magic and technology clash, and where hackers and street samurai are commonplace.

Shadowrun Online players will split their game time between prepping missions and carrying them out. While some of the maps will require all-out action efforts, others will require stealth, hacking, and even magic. Between fights, players will seek out contacts, prepare spells, and purchase gear to improve their odds when the time comes.

Shadowrun Online is in pre-production and the team hopes to get it into full development by November. It is planned to be a browser-based title, and Cliffhanger is drawing from Shadowrun alumni efforts to keep the game in line with the franchise. The company is still looking for partners to help with publishing and distributing.

MassivelyIntroducing Shadowrun Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedcliffhangercliffhanger-productionsdystopiahackersjagged-alliance-onlinenew-titlenew-titlespen-and-papershadowrunshadowrun-onlinestrategystreet-samuraitop-down-strategyThu, 13 Oct 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Magic Campus beta a success, gamigo announces]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/magic-campus-beta-a-success-gamigo-announces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/magic-campus-beta-a-success-gamigo-announces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/magic-campus-beta-a-success-gamigo-announces/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Magic Campus - fantasy wallpaper
gamigo's new Magic Campus MMO has "passed the beta stage" according to the company's latest press release. The title is a tactical browser-based affair, and gamigo says that players will take on the roles of magicians in training and beast tamers bent on capturing the hundreds of critters that populate the "colorful anime world."

The game boasts six classes, turn-based battles against both monsters and other players, and guild and crafting systems designed to offer an alternative to combat. Magic Campus is free-to-play, and you can find out more about it, as well as download the client, at the official website.

[Source: gamigo press release]

MassivelyMagic Campus beta a success, gamigo announces originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animebeast-tamerbetaend-of-betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playgamigoguildsmagic-campusmagicianpetspvepvpstrategytacticalturn-basedThu, 29 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Immortal King launching open beta on September 22nd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/immortal-king-launching-open-beta-on-september-22nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/immortal-king-launching-open-beta-on-september-22nd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/immortal-king-launching-open-beta-on-september-22nd/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I know, I know, Greek kings were usually pretty darn mortal.
Have you lain awake at nights wishing that you could take part in testing an MMORTS themed after ancient Greece? If so, you've got some rather specific issues, but you're also in luck. Immortal King, a browser-based MMORTS, is entering the open beta phase on Thursday, September 22nd. And as with many open betas, it's giving players a chance to take part in a variety of special events during the testing phase.

Players who travel to the official site will be given an opportunity to obtain a special "Newbie Card" to get started in the game easily, and high-ranking players in factional duels also have the opportunity to earn in-game gold. There are also forum events, encouraging players to contribute to the game's knowledge base for more in-game rewards. There are only a couple of days left until the open beta goes live, so if you've been staying up late, you can take heart that your oddly specific sleepless nights are soon to end.

[Source: Press release]

MassivelyImmortal King launching open beta on September 22nd originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testingbetasgame-321immortal-kingin-game-eventsmmortsngamesopen-betastrategytesting-eventsupcoming-testsTue, 20 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Land of Chaos Online celebrates first anniversary with free stuff]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/land-of-chaos-online-celebrates-first-anniversary-with-free-stuf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/land-of-chaos-online-celebrates-first-anniversary-with-free-stuf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/land-of-chaos-online-celebrates-first-anniversary-with-free-stuf/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Land of Chaos Online - screenshot
Like presents? If so, Alaplaya is betting you'll like Land of Chaos Online, not to mention the one-year anniversary party that's going on right now. The festivities run through August 30th and include special anniversary gifts for all players as well as free hero cards from the AP shop.

LOCO blends action, real-time strategy, and traditional MMORPG progression together with third-person shooter elements and a matchmaking format similar to Defense of the Ancients. The formula is apparently working pretty well, as the game has attracted over 530,000 registered players in the past year, according to a new press release. More info on the game is available at the official website, and you can also download the client and start playing for free.

MassivelyLand of Chaos Online celebrates first anniversary with free stuff originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-year-anniversaryalaplayaanniversaryf2pfree-stufffree-to-playland-of-chaos-onlinelocommortsone-year-anniversarypresentspress-releasereal-time-strategystrategytacticsMon, 29 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[4X MMORTS Starjack Online goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/4x-mmorts-starjack-online-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/4x-mmorts-starjack-online-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/4x-mmorts-starjack-online-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Starjack Online splash header
Way back in February, we covered the open beta of Limbo Game Studios' Starjack Online. For the uninitiated, Starjack Online is an MMORTS of a variety known as 4X. RTS players will find themselves familiar with the 4X term, which stands for explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate. In a press release today, the studio announced that the free-to-play title has now gone live, and players are able to 4X the hell out of each other to their hearts' content.

The entire game takes place in real-time (as opposed to being turn-based), ensuring that players will be kept on their toes. Almost everything in the game is player-created, as well, so if you'd rather make a killing as a war profiteer, you can outfit other players with their ships and troops. If this sounds like your cup of tea, the game can be downloaded and played for free at the official site.

Massively4X MMORTS Starjack Online goes live originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4xexplore-expand-exploit-exterminatef2pfree-to-playlaunchlimbo-game-studiosmmortsreal-time-strategyreleasertsstarjackstarjack-onlinestrategyTue, 23 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New End of Nations trailer goes meta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/new-end-of-nations-trailer-goes-meta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/new-end-of-nations-trailer-goes-meta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/new-end-of-nations-trailer-goes-meta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- End of Nations
You can't fight here, this is the war room! Wait, you can? Nevermind, carry on. Today we have a new trailer from Gamescom highlighting Trion Worlds' End of Nation's metagame. The developers are careful to note that anyone can contribute to their nation's war effort, whether you're a green novice or a hardened veteran.

The trailer also takes some time to highlight the different types of battle maps available to players, from the standard PvP map to the monumental mega maps, which feature up to 50 players on the map, each will a full army. The battles raging on each of these maps will determine which faction controls the territory, and each territory grants its controlling faction a different advantage. It's up to the players to decide which territory would most benefit their faction's current needs, and then to bring the firepower and capture the territory. For the full trailer, blast your way past the cut.

Continue reading New End of Nations trailer goes meta

MassivelyNew End of Nations trailer goes meta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>end-of-nationseongamescomgamescom-2011metametagamemmortsrtsstrategytrailertrailerstriontrion-worldsvideovideosThu, 18 Aug 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Planet War closed beta launches today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/planet-war-closed-beta-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/planet-war-closed-beta-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/planet-war-closed-beta-launches-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Last week we told you about a new sci-fi browser MMO called Planet War. YooGames' space-based opus looks to add a couple of new wrinkles to web-based strategy titles including alien foreign policy and large-scale conquest.

Don't take our word for it, though.

The closed beta is currently underway, and YooGames is accepting new testers via their website registration form. Planet War also boasts a special gift event for closed beta players who are present for the unveiling of the Bellona server. Each individual will receive a VIP code that grants resources, coins, a point voucher, and five in-game construction robots. Head to the official Planet War website to learn more about the game, and don't forget to view the trailer after the cut!

Continue reading Planet War closed beta launches today

MassivelyPlanet War closed beta launches today originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bellonabellona-serverbetabeta-signupbonus-codesbrowserbrowser-basedclosed-betammortsplanet-warpress-releasertssci-fistrategythat-droid-control-ship-looks-somehow-familiarvip-codevip-codesyoogamesWed, 10 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Planet War browser game to feature galactic conquest and alien foreign policy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/planet-war-browser-game-to-feature-galactic-conquest-and-alien-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/planet-war-browser-game-to-feature-galactic-conquest-and-alien-f/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/planet-war-browser-game-to-feature-galactic-conquest-and-alien-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Here at Massively we get dozens of game-related press releases on an hourly basis. Rarely, though, does a blurb say something like "players build aircraft carriers to navigate the stars and Milky Way to explore and learn of ancient civilizations."

The release for YooGames' new browser-based MMO Planet War said just that, and as a result we're keen on taking a look at the title's closed beta when it kicks off on August 9th. YooGames also says that Planet War is inspired by famous sci-fi novels and heroes, and aims to provide a unique strategy experience that features both conquest and alien foreign policy. We're not sure what that means as of yet, but it definitely piqued our interest. You can learn more about the game at its official web site as well as the Planet War Facebook portal.

MassivelyPlanet War browser game to feature galactic conquest and alien foreign policy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien-foreign-policybrowserbrowser-basedconquestf2pfree-to-playgalactic-conquestinternet-spaceshipsmmortsplanet-warpress-releasereal-time-strategyrtssci-fistrategyyoo-gamesyoogamesFri, 05 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Castlot browser game to feature sabotage mechanics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/castlot-browser-game-to-feature-sabotage-mechanics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/castlot-browser-game-to-feature-sabotage-mechanics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/castlot-browser-game-to-feature-sabotage-mechanics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Looking for a unique new browser MMO? If so, you might want to check out Castlot, the latest title to be added to the ClapAlong delivery platform. Castlot is a fantasy MMO set during the sixth century amidst Britain's struggles with Saxon invaders.

The game features two factions as well as mechanics that allow for sabotage, scheming, and all manner of dastardly tricks against your enemies. A new Castlot press release outlines one possible scenario which revolves around releasing a goblin into an enemy player's annexed land. Said goblin will allow you to steal your target's resources, the better to stockpile your own supply of crops and upgrade your castle.

On the other hand, goblin infiltrators may be countered by the placement of traps, so you'll want to think carefully when it comes to strategy and tactics. Castlot features a mix of turn-based and real-time combat, and the game will be hosting a public beta phase later this month.

MassivelyCastlot browser game to feature sabotage mechanics originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabritishbrowserbrowser-basedcastlotclap-alongclapalongcombatfantasygoblinspress-releasereal-timeresourcessaxonsscheme-systemstrategyturn-basedThu, 04 Aug 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wargaming.net opens European office]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/wargaming-net-opens-european-office/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/wargaming-net-opens-european-office/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/26/wargaming-net-opens-european-office/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Wargaming.net is expanding, and the company behind World of Tanks and the upcoming World of Warplanes has issued a press release detailing its growth and plans for the future.

In short, a new European branch is opening, and the facility will boast "more than 40 professionals" who will handle Wargaming.net's PR, marketing, community, and support logistics. The company, which originally formed in Belarus, has tapped Frederic Menou to oversee its new European office which is located in Paris, France. Menou was formerly the managing director at Blizzard Entertainment Europe.

"We are not a small company, we are becoming a global player," Menou says. "There's nothing that can hinder us from becoming the best company in the industry."

MassivelyWargaming.net opens European office originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseuropean-branchf2pfrederic-menoufree-to-playhistoricalmmo-industrypress-releasestrategywarwar-gameswargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-warplanesTue, 26 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XLGames making Civilization MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/xl-games-making-civilization-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/xl-games-making-civilization-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/xl-games-making-civilization-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Get ready, Civilization fans, as your favorite franchise is heading to MMO-land (and no, we're not talking about the Civ World Facebook game). A couple of months ago we told you about XLGames' partnership with Take-Two Interactive, as well as the fact that XL would be making an existing Take-Two property into an MMORPG.

This morning, various Asian gaming websites confirmed that said property is the venerable Civilization series that began way back in 1991. Details on the new game are sparse, but Google Translate versions of the news articles indicate that XL has begun "large-scale recruitment of MMORPG developers [...] including server [programmers], client programmers, artists, planners, project managers, story designers, [and] mission designers."

Prior to its involvement with the Civilization franchise, XLGames was known exclusively for ArcheAge, a fantasy sandbox MMO that is currently undergoing closed beta testing in Korea.

[Thanks to Mark for the tip!]

MassivelyXLGames making Civilization MMO originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-building-mmocivilizationcivilization-mmocivilization-mmorpggame-announcementjake-songstrategystrategy-mmotake-twotake-two-interactivexlxl-gamesXlGamesThu, 21 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dawn of Fantasy reveals Online Kingdom mode]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/dawn-of-fantasy-reveals-online-kingdom-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/dawn-of-fantasy-reveals-online-kingdom-mode/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/dawn-of-fantasy-reveals-online-kingdom-mode/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

"You must pursue an epic storyline of betrayal, blood, and resource-management in the aftermath of a mighty war," proclaims the latest press release for Dawn of Fantasy. If that sounds right up your alley, you'll want to check out the MMORTS title from 505 Games as it picks up a head of steam in its ongoing summer beta.

505 is highlighting the game's Online Kingdom mode in its latest media blast, and the gameplay features three campaigns, nine starting regions, and persistent PvP, all rolled together in a rather tasty MMO/RTS/RPG sandwich. Even better is the fact that Online Kingdom is just one of the game's modes, and you can read up on a couple of others -- including Stronghold Defense and Kingdom Wars -- via our earlier coverage. When you're finished, head to the official Dawn of Fantasy website to sign up for the beta.

MassivelyDawn of Fantasy reveals Online Kingdom mode originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>505505-gamescampaignsdawn-of-fantasyfantasygame-mechanicsgame-modesmmo-industrymmortsnew-titlesonline-kingdompress-releasereal-time-strategyrtsstrategyMon, 11 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ministry of War launches Blood of the Nobles expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/ministry-of-war-launches-blood-of-the-nobles-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/ministry-of-war-launches-blood-of-the-nobles-expansion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/ministry-of-war-launches-blood-of-the-nobles-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Strategic minds, rejoice! Today, Snail Games is releasing its Blood of the Nobles expansion for its MMORTS Ministry of War. The game allows players to choose between one of four ancient civilizations: Egypt, China, Persia, or Rome. Players trade, research, raise armies, and of course fight amongst one another for dominance.

The new Blood of the Nobles expansion introduces -- rather suitably -- a Nobility system that allows players to become Nobles, which provides them with a "huge collection of exclusive benefits." It also brings the Noble's Work Force, "which provides automatic systems like construction and research, freeing Nobles to focus exclusively on expanding their Empire and defeating enemies." Snail Games has also opened up a brand new server, Triumph, which makes it the perfect time for new players to jump right in, which they can do at the official site!

Gallery: Ministry of War

MassivelyMinistry of War launches Blood of the Nobles expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-of-the-noblesbrowserbrowser-basedf2pfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryministry-of-warmmortsreal-time-strategyscreenshotscreenshotssnail-gamesstrategyWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[UFO Online wants your slogan on its loading screens]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/ufo-online-wants-your-slogan-on-its-loading-screens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/ufo-online-wants-your-slogan-on-its-loading-screens/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/ufo-online-wants-your-slogan-on-its-loading-screens/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Loading screens are a necessary evil for many of our favorite MMORPGs, but as long as they're festooned with some cool concept art and a lore snippet or two, we generally don't complain.

If you've ever wanted the opportunity to personalize your loading screen without resorting to third-party hacks, gamigo has a contest you'll want to check out. UFO Online - Fight for Earth is in need of a few good loading screen slogans, and players who come up with the best catch-phrases will find their words immortalized on the the turn-based strategy title's various transition panels (as well as their name in the game's credits).

gamigo is looking for "anti-alien slogans," so put on your xenophobic thinking caps and send your best entries to the official contest email address. A final vote will be conducted on the game's Facebook page in short order, so get a move on, soldier!

MassivelyUFO Online wants your slogan on its loading screens originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-alienbrowserbrowser-basedcontestf2pfree-to-playgamigortsslogansstrategyufoufo-onlineufo-online-fight-for-earthThu, 30 Jun 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks rolling toward retail]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/world-of-tanks-rolling-toward-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/world-of-tanks-rolling-toward-retail/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/28/world-of-tanks-rolling-toward-retail/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The retail box hasn't quite succumbed to the digital download onslaught, at least if World of Tanks and Wargaming.net have anything to say in the matter. Yes, fans of clutter and old-school box collecting rejoice, as WoT is on its way to a game store near you thanks to a new partnership with Interactive Gaming Software. The World War II-based tank MMO will be available at retail for $19.99, and Wargaming.net CEO Victor Kislyi hopes that the new deal will result in increased exposure around the globe.

"We're extremely proud to say that our headliner will finally appear in stores," Kislyi said via press release. "[We] hope that [IGS'] tremendous expertise in distributing retail production will help in bringing the popularity of World of Tanks to a completely new level."

World of Tanks is a free-to-play action MMO that launched last April. The game features squad-based tank combat, traditional MMO progression, and a strategic territorial meta-game based on a large-scale map of World War II-era Europe.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks rolling toward retail originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobusiness-modelsf2pfree-to-playhistoricaligsinteractive-gaming-softwareold-schoolpress-releaseretailretail-boxstrategyvictor-kislyiwarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotww2wwiiTue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2011: Nival announces Facebook-integrated MMO Prime World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/e3-2011-nival-announces-facebook-integrated-mmo-prime-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/e3-2011-nival-announces-facebook-integrated-mmo-prime-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/e3-2011-nival-announces-facebook-integrated-mmo-prime-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Nival may be a new player in the MMOsphere, but Prime World, its first big push into the fray, is looking to turn a few heads. Developed in the Unity 3D engine and promising an intense PvP experience inspired by Defense of the Ancients, Prime World hopes to break from other, similar games by integrating itself into Facebook. While elements of the social game can be played in a web browser, the PvP combat will require a downloadable client.

Players will be able to construct castles and enjoy other social gaming features, and these elements will bleed into the PvP portions of the game and vice-versa. Well-designed castles will provide "meaningful benefits" to the PvP action scenes, and social networks can be exploited, helping players gain strategic advantages. Likewise, the spoils gained from successful PvP victories and other minigames can be used to customize your castle or be gifted to friends.

Nival is expecting Prime World to enter closed beta late this year, but it released a teaser trailer to whet our appetites until then. Check it out after the break!

Massively's on the ground in Los Angeles during the week of June 6-9, bringing you all the best news from E3 2011. Whether you're dying to know more about Star Wars: The Old Republic, RIFT, or any MMO in between, you can bet we'll have it covered!


Gallery: Prime World

Continue reading E3 2011: Nival announces Facebook-integrated MMO Prime World

MassivelyE3 2011: Nival announces Facebook-integrated MMO Prime World originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dota-inspirede3e3-2011galleryminigamesmmortsnew-titlesnivalpreviewprime-worldsocial-gamesstrategyvideoTue, 07 Jun 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Dawn of Fantasy screenshots and information on races]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/new-dawn-of-fantasy-screenshots-and-information-on-races/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/new-dawn-of-fantasy-screenshots-and-information-on-races/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/new-dawn-of-fantasy-screenshots-and-information-on-races/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Dawn of Fantasy seems like it's been in development for an awfully long time, but with a release coming in June, MMORTS fans should be getting excited. The team behind the game has sent along some new screenshots as well as more information on the three most influential races in the game -- Men, Orcs, and Elves.

Elves, as most fantasy fans will likely expect, are split between Wood Elves and High Elves, with the former excelling at natural magic and the latter focusing on city building and alchemy. Orcs count a number of savage tribes among their numbers, with Desert Orcs and Swamp Orcs both focusing heavily upon offensive measures. Last but not least, the race of Men encompasses the cities of Rollingplain and Menthorn -- both are united under a single ruler, but Menthorn is filled with unrest and talk of rebellion.

MMORTS fans will want to keep their eyes on Dawn of Fantasy as the game approaches release on June 17th.

Gallery: Dawn of Fantasy Screenshot Gallery

MassivelyNew Dawn of Fantasy screenshots and information on races originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 May 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>505-gamesdawn-of-fantasydofelveshumanskingomsmmortsorcsracesreal-time-strategyreverie-worldreverie-world-studiosscreenshotscreenshotsstrategyFri, 13 May 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jagex preparing to conquer the world with 8Realms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/jagex-preparing-to-conquer-the-world-with-8realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/jagex-preparing-to-conquer-the-world-with-8realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/jagex-preparing-to-conquer-the-world-with-8realms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

"What's next?" is the question on everyone's lips when it comes to successful MMO studio Jagex. The RuneScape developer has many projects in the works, including Stellar Dawn and Transformers Online. However, the company is hoping that you'll also take notice of 8Realms, its social empire builder that lets you cultivate a civilization from scratch and conquer the world with your cunning.

As 8Realms entered closed beta this past week, Lead Developer Claire Blackshaw spoke with CVG about the game's focus. "Our approach is always a strategy first and social second," she said. "Though I do think the most appealing aspect of games such as Diplomacy is the social element."

She thinks that the game can challenge genre favorite titles like Civilization and Total War while remaining accessible to the lunch break strategist: "8Realms can fit into your day, firing it up at lunch to launch a few attacks or make sure your research is going as planned. Also because of the social element you have wars break out which get you very worked up."

The team is also proud of how far it has advanced the capability of browser-based games alone. "We made current browser tech jump through hoops, and using our own server-side technology pushed what's possible in terms of scaling," Blackshaw said.

MassivelyJagex preparing to conquer the world with 8Realms originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 May 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8-realms8realmsbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-technologybrowser-techbrowser-technologycivilizationClaire-Blackshawcvgdiplomacyempire-builderempire-buildinginterviewjagexrunescapesocialstellar-dawnstrategytotal-wartransformerstransformers-onlineSun, 08 May 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively conquers two Empire and State developers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/massively-conquers-two-empire-and-state-developers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/massively-conquers-two-empire-and-state-developers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/massively-conquers-two-empire-and-state-developers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Massively sat down with Empire and State developer Toby Ragaini not so long ago, and we were excited to see exactly how the team's promised game of political intrigue and power-grabbing would play -- so excited that we nabbed a second interview not only with Toby, Director of Game Development at Novel Inc, but also with Mike Marr, the company's Creative Director. Both of them offer a combined experience from MMOs like Asheron's Call and RTS games like Supreme Commander.

We were able to get our hands on the game, as well, and were pretty surprised at what we found. If you are familiar with many browser games, you will not be shocked at how the game is delivered to you. What will catch you off guard is how the game plays and feels, as it combines a lot of different elements from some very popular genres and game styles.

Click past the cut to check out some of the details from our interview!

Continue reading Massively conquers two Empire and State developers

MassivelyMassively conquers two Empire and State developers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowsercivilizationempire-and-stateesf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpmike-marrmmortsnovel-incriskstrategytoby-ragainiMon, 25 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Picaroon polishing beta 'questorials']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/picaroon-polishing-beta-questorials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/picaroon-polishing-beta-questorials/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/picaroon-polishing-beta-questorials/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Picaroon's beta phase is sailing merrily along, and Nice Technology is talking up a few of the MMORTS's features in a new press release. The newbie experience is fresh on the minds of beta testers and developers, and Nice producer Toby Simpson says that the company has come up with "questorials" that are organized into mission groups to effectively communicate the game's basics while avoiding the dreaded need for players to spend time reading a manual.

"We know that documentation is the very last thing that anyone reads," Simpson explains, noting that Nice has recently added PvE pirate battle questorials to introduce the game's combat.

Picaroon's beta is also gearing up to release new content in the form of a new building called the Technology Centre. In a nutshell, the Centre offers new strategies for defending islands (courtesy of an orbital laser cannon satellite) as well as a new game mode called persistent Picaroon. Head to the official website for more details.

MassivelyPicaroon polishing beta 'questorials' originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaf2pfantasyfree-to-playlaser-cannonmmortsnaval-combatnicenice-technologyorbital-satellitepicaroonquestorialsrtsstrategytechnology-centretoby-simpsontutorialsFri, 15 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks rolls on to release day]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/world-of-tanks-rolls-on-to-release-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/world-of-tanks-rolls-on-to-release-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/world-of-tanks-rolls-on-to-release-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

How's about we strap ourselves inside 60 tons of steel, form up with a company of like-minded comrades, and steam-roll those unfortunate chaps rolling along in the enemy tank brigade on the other side of the map? If you answered hooaahh, World of Tanks is probably an MMO that you'll want to check out (and even if you didn't, the game is free-to-play, so you've got nothing to lose).

So grab your buddies, your extra ammo, and a cup of that engine degreaser that passes for coffee and avail yourself of video tutorials, interviews with Victor Kislyi, and clan wars discussions -- all courtesy of the best World of Tanks coverage on the web. That's right, release day for Wargaming.net's action/strategy MMO is finally here, and Massively's got your mission-critical intel briefing just after the cut.

Continue reading World of Tanks rolls on to release day

MassivelyWorld of Tanks rolls on to release day originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoclan-warsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhistoricallaunchlaunch-daylaunch-roundupmilitaryreal-worldreleaserelease-dayroundupstrategyvictor-kislyiwarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotTue, 12 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST