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Super Hero Squad Online gets vocal with new all-star cast of talent

Matt Daniel — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, News items, Free-to-play, Casual, Family, Super Hero Squad Online

Voice-acting in MMOs seems to be all the rage these days, and Gazillion Entertainment, publisher of the free-to-play Super Hero Squad Online, seems to be jumping on the bandwagon. In a press release today, the company announced that each and every hero and villain in the game will be receiving a full vocal makeover, and many characters will be voiced by the same actors who provide voice work for the Super Hero Squad television series.

Jay Minn, vice president of The Amazing Society -- the development studio behind the games -- is obviously quite pleased with the decision to give voice to the game's dozens of characters, stating that "the heroes and villains in Marvel Super Hero Squad Online have always had their own unique personalities and attitudes... We're excited and very proud to let our heroes and villains speak their minds!" The statement adds that the game currently includes over 3000 lines of spoken dialogue (with over 100 attributed to everyone's favorite Merc with a Mouth), so players can expect plenty of witty quips from their characters of choice.

To get in the game and hear the new voiceovers for yourself, just click on through the link below to Super Hero Squad Online's official site.

[Source: Gazillion Entertainment press release]

Super Hero Squad Online gets vocal with new all-star cast of talent originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Behind the Mask: Scarlet Weather Rhapsody

Patrick Mackey — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Game mechanics, Opinion, Free-to-play, Hands-on, Champions Online, Behind the Mask

Champions Online released two powersets recently, and I finally got time to sit down and crunch numbers on the new Wind powers. Wind has been live for a few weeks now, and the Squall archetype uses its powers to push enemies around the battlefield and rock the damage charts.

Wind has been one of the most frequently requested powersets since Heavy Weapons hit the game, and I was excited to play around with the set. Does the Wind powerset meet the expectations players had for it? This week on Behind the Mask, I set out to find the answer to that question.

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Behind the Mask: Scarlet Weather Rhapsody originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MMO Family: Heroing-up in Super Hero Squad Online

Karen Bryan — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Opinion, Free-to-play, Kids, MMO Family, Family, Super Hero Squad Online

There's a growing number of great kid-friendly MMOs available, and one that I've been meaning to check out for a while now is Super Hero Squad Online. The game has only been out for eight months, yet in that short time, it's reached over a million registered users and added lots of new content and characters.

I've spent some time in the game, along with my two young testers, to find out what the buzz is all about. We formed up a squad and set off to check out missions, the card game, our headquarters, and the opportunities for exploration out in the world, and our first impressions are found below. If you've ever wanted to know what the little super heroes eat or what holiday treats are available at the Parker household, you'll definitely want to read on!

Continue reading MMO Family: Heroing-up in Super Hero Squad Online

MMO Family: Heroing-up in Super Hero Squad Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Behind the Mask: What does unbalanced even mean?

Patrick Mackey — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, PvP, PvE, Opinion, Free-to-play, Champions Online, Behind the Mask

One of the major criticisms of Champions Online is a lack of game balance. People claim that the phrase "your own hero, your own story" doesn't cover the fact that your hero might be a gimp compared to someone else's. Although archetypes have their own balance issues (even among themselves), this complaint most commonly leveled at the freeform game where there are millions of possible characters.

However, I think that most armchair game theorists have a terrible understanding of what "balance" even means. Decades of competitive gaming (yeah, I'm that old) have given me a comprehensive understanding of what the term means, and I think it's worth looking at how CO stacks up.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: What does unbalanced even mean?

Behind the Mask: What does unbalanced even mean? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Behind the Mask: Science, technology and fantasy

Patrick Mackey — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Lore, Opinion, Free-to-play, Champions Online, Behind the Mask

Last week's Behind the Mask generated quite a bit of controversy over fantasy and the suspension of disbelief. This week, I'm going to follow up. We'll cover how the Champions Online universe deals with fantasy in its lore and why realism is important.

We'll also cover how fantasy elements can use realism to expand -- rather than subtract -- your options for roleplaying. Last week, we only covered weapons technology, but there's a lot more to any fictional setting than just weapons. Everything from communications and transportation to food production is important to discuss, and while we can't touch on everything, we can look at the hows and whys of the superhero genre.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Science, technology and fantasy

Behind the Mask: Science, technology and fantasy originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Free for All: Recreating my teenage superhero with Champions Online

Beau Hindman — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Screenshots, City of Heroes, Culture, Lore, Opinion, Free-to-play, Comics, Roleplaying, Champions Online, Free for All

I grew up drawing. I was known as the artist kid in all of my classes, and the other students would often sit around me and just watch me draw. I have to admit that it was a nice feeling, but a lot of the time I would be drawing such emotional things that it was a little embarrassing as well. As I battled my way through puberty, I discovered that my love for comics had transferred to a love of making my own comics. The main characters were often based on me and people I know, filtered through a superhero lens.

I have always disliked the Supermen of the comic world. I preferred to make characters that had flaws or weaknesses. Still, I wanted to make my superhero powerful enough to survive a scrap. Don't ask me why (I don't remember), but I came up with a character named Check, named so because of his use of the "in-between" energy of the universe. While some villains harnessed dark powers, and others fought with light, Check fought with the energy of the mundane, the bland, the boring. I know it sounds odd, but he fought using the same energy that someone might feel during meditation or sleep. Essentially, it was energy that was everywhere, very dependable, and very powerful. Still, controlling it made Check a very somber fellow.

Lately I had been thinking more about Check -- and his gray step-mother, Grin -- and decided to give him another go inside one of the wonderful superhero MMOs. Even though I had made him before in City of Heroes, I wanted to try him out in Champions Online this time. Click past the cut and I'll walk you through my creation!

Continue reading Free for All: Recreating my teenage superhero with Champions Online

Free for All: Recreating my teenage superhero with Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Herotopia relaunches today!

Matt Daniel — Wed, 25 May 2011 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Galleries, Screenshots, Launches, News items, Free-to-play, Family

"Calling all Superkids!" begins Jagex's press release announcing today's relaunch of its newest MMO Herotopia. The children's superhero game went live again today with a new content update, touting a new Mission System that "[gives] players more than 75 challenging quests to complete and five new mini-games, including daily Power Puzzles that test their creativeness, skill and knowledge of the world around them."

Heroptopia, which has received the prestigious Gold Award from the National Parenting Publications Awards, "offers kids a rich and engaging world for them to become their ultimate Superheroes" and allows them to visit real-world locations ranging from New York to Paris to the North Pole. Alongside the requisite quests and minigames, Herotopia offers players the chance to create their very own Fortresses of Solitude with the game's Secret Hideout system, which gives players "a fully customizable hero base where they can meet with their in-game friends."

What does Herotopia have to offer for kids (and their parents)? Caryn and Wade Teman, CEOs of Herotainment, had this to say: "When creating Herotopia, we as parents ourselves wanted to empower kids to be their own heroes and to get something more out of playing an online game than just a high score." The game is free-to-play, though it does offer a subscription option that provides players with additional acessories for their hideouts, an orangutan sidekick, more superpowers and vehicles, and access to an additional location known as Herotopia Island. In addition, a portion of all proceeds from subscriptions will be donated to children's charities voted on by the game's community.

For more information and to jump into the game, head over to the game's official site.

Gallery: Herotopia Core Gallery

Herotopia relaunches today! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 May 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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City of Heroes goes Victorian with new Steampunk Pack

Matt Daniel — Wed, 18 May 2011 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Trailers, Video, City of Heroes, City of Villains, News items

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

City 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.

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Super Hero Squad Online releases Asgard, screenshots, trailer

Matt Daniel — Fri, 13 May 2011 18:30:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Trailers, Video, Expansions, News items, Free-to-play, Super Hero Squad Online

As we announced recently, Super Hero Squad Online is making the most of the release of the new Thor film by adding the Norse god and his homeland of Asgard to the free-to-play MMORPG. Now, thanks to a press release from Gazillion Entertainment, we have a wealth of new information regarding these new additions. Players will be able to take on the roles of Thor -- in both his classic and ultimate incarnations -- Valkyrie, and Gladiator Hulk.

After assuming control of any of these new heroes -- or any of the old ones as well, for that matter -- players can now take off to the mythical land of Asgard, home of the Norse Gods. From there, Gazillion says players can "discover the World's Tree and other landmarks in Asgard or battle through two brand new missions", known as The Gods of Thunder and Freezer Burn.

If you're looking for a peek at SHSO's Asgard expansion before you log in to see it for yourself, check out the gallery below and hammer your way past the cut for an action-packed trailer. There's Thor, there's Asgard, there's Loki, there are frost giants, there's... hacky-sack! Don't miss it, lest you incur the wrath of the god of thunder.

Gallery: Super Hero Squad Online

Continue reading Super Hero Squad Online releases Asgard, screenshots, trailer

Super Hero Squad Online releases Asgard, screenshots, trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 May 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Marvel Universe Online will be free-to-play, penned by Bendis

Brianna Royce — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Business models, Events, real-world, Interviews, Lore, MMO industry, New titles, Free-to-play, Marvel Heroes, Massively Interviews, Massively Event Coverage

Move over, Batman: After a few false starts, Marvel's finally poised to become the next big MMO superhero thing.

Thursday evening, I attended Gazillion Entertainment and Marvel's live San Francisco reveal of Marvel Universe Online's head writer, the jovial Brian Michael Bendis. Joining Brian for a lively Q&A panel were Gazillion President and COO David Brevik, VP and Studio Head for Secret Identity (fka Gargantuan) Jeff Lind, and VP of Games at Marvel TQ Jefferson. Brian's involvement in the game's story wasn't the only announcement the panelists had in store for attendees -- they almost casually confessed that players will slip into the spandex of iconic Marvel characters and that the game will be free-to-play, making it perhaps the first Western triple-A title to be designed for such a model from the ground up.

Because I knew you'd be disappointed if I didn't, I dutifully asked an amused Jeff Lind about PvP, housing, crafting, voice acting, character customization, travel powers, advancement, and all those other goodies, but as you can probably guess, the devs aren't in a position to talk about sweeping systems just yet -- they want to "retain the ability to change [their] minds." So manage thy expectations accordingly! Fortunately, both Jeff and Brian were willing to chat about story, tie-ins, and MUO's niche in an increasingly crowded superhero MMO field, so hit the break for their thoughts and my round-up of the hot topics from the panel.

Continue reading Marvel Universe Online will be free-to-play, penned by Bendis

Marvel Universe Online will be free-to-play, penned by Bendis originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Super Hero Squad Online shows some /emote-ion

Larry Everett — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Super-hero, Trailers, Video, New titles, Family, Super Hero Squad Online

Your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man is at it again: swinging from the rooftops, snapping the next great shot for the Daily Bugle. But what is he capturing this time? It's certainly not a picture of himself saving the day. He's taking pictures of all his superhero friends posing in the streets of Superhero City.

Super Hero Squad Online isn't all about saving the day every minute. Sometimes you just need to relax or maybe show off to your friends. Gazillion Entertainment and The Amazing Society have put together a trailer of all your favorite characters of SHSO showing off their emotes. From Black Panther playing with a ball of yarn to the Wasp riding a wild rodeo pigeon, superheroes know how to have fun, and in Super Hero Squad Online, these heroes are yours to command.

Jump past the break to see the trailer for yourself, then fly on over to HeroUp.com to sign up for the beta, today!

Continue reading Super Hero Squad Online shows some /emote-ion

Super Hero Squad Online shows some /emote-ion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Behind the Mask: Fixing the glass cannons

Patrick Mackey — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Classes, Professions, PvE, Free-to-play, Champions Online, Behind the Mask

There's a sharp divide between the Champions Online that I play and the Champions Online played by the majority of the readers here at Massively. I play the heavily customized, freeform game -- and even among freeform players, I am aggressive in my builds. I avoid T0 blasts like the plague (although Two-Gun Mojo is pretty good), and I pick my powers with the sole intention of avoiding waste.

Most of you guys play F2P now, and there's nothing wrong with that at all. All of the Archetypes are viable, especially in team situations. In general, they can't quite compete with a polished freeform character, but they're not dead spots in a lair, and they work surprisingly well when teamed up with freeform supermen (and women).

Solo, it's a slightly different story. Of the current 10 Archetypes, most solo wonderfully, easily meeting the challenges present in the Normal difficulty game. That leaves three... and all share one similarity: They use the Avenger role. The Silver Avengers (not to be confused with the in-game organization of the same name) are very capable Archetypes. I've mentioned in the past that Inferno is one of the strongest, and to wit, all three Avengers absolutely roll through most content, especially on teams. Outside of teams, the three Avengers are so squishy that they suffer a bit when taking on the big baddies -- Master Villains and Super Villains. This week, I sought to find out the answer: Can Silver Avengers solo?

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Fixing the glass cannons

Behind the Mask: Fixing the glass cannons originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Behind the Mask: I want to be with this game forever and ever

Patrick Mackey — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Business models, Patches, Opinion, Free-to-play, Champions Online, Behind the Mask

One of the saddest days for me was Tuesday -- the day Champions Online launched its Free for All expansion and went free-to-play. I was mostly sad because I didn't get to log in; people have been telling me about 15+ instances of Millennium City and having a blast teaming up with all the new faces. I even got to talk to Poz on the Massively Speaking podcast about how in the first few hours of F2P, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive and the launch went off with only a minor hiccup when the servers had some minor maintenance a few hours in.

While I waited for Cryptic's CS department to look at my account issues, I got to thinking about how much it would suck to lose access to my free-form characters, to which until now I've had unlimited access for as long as the game continues to live. My lifetime account for CO sure is cool.

There are a lot of criticisms about CO's F2P model and even more about lifetime accounts. Way back when they were first being offered, there were a lot of arguments that CO wouldn't last the 13 months or so it would take to pay it off. Now people are claiming that Cryptic is trying to steal more money by offering lifetime subs again. Why is a lifetime account worth it? Hit the jump and let's find out.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: I want to be with this game forever and ever

Behind the Mask: I want to be with this game forever and ever originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cryptic unmasks the Champions F2P trailer

Larry Everett — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Trailers, Video, Events, in-game, Launches, Free-to-play, Champions Online

Defender calls out to all Champions: "Report to the nearest crisis zone and engage the enemy."

If you have not experienced Champions Online yet, now is the time. Cryptic's superhero MMORPG is officially free-to-play as of today. This is your chance to design a hero in what G4TV has called "the finest character creator system yet seen in an online RPG." Or perhaps you're a former Champions Online player who hasn't played for a while... this is a great time for you to get back into the game to see what you have been missing.

In the F2P launch-day trailer, Millennium City's being attacked while the other Champions are spread around the world in battles of their own. The distress call has gone out to you. Will you reply? Catch the full trailer after the break, then you can head over to the official site and start saving the world today.

Continue reading Cryptic unmasks the Champions F2P trailer

Cryptic unmasks the Champions F2P trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Behind the Mask: I request a do-over

Patrick Mackey — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Opinion, Champions Online, Behind the Mask, Guides

Respecs in most games are a way to change the focus of your character or a a tool to remove bad character choices. They generally cost a lump sum for a full reset of all of a character's skill or talent points. In Champions Online, respecs are a little different. They cost a small amount of resources to remove individual powers, and that amount scales up as your hero gains levels and gets new powers. The most recent powers are still fairly inexpensive to remove, but powers selected very early in your character's career cost an arm and a leg to replace.

We can use respecs in much the same way as we can in other games; a full reset of your character's abilities costs an absurd amount of money, but you do earn enough money during a character's lifetime to get a couple at key points. At level 40, you also earn a full respec, and full retcon tokens (which reset all powers, talents, and advantages) can always be picked up in the C-Store.

However, CO's respec system leaves a lot of room for exciting abuses if you're willing to explore them a little bit. Like most of anything nested deep within the gameplay of Champions, it's a little confusing. Hopefully we can clear up some of that.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: I request a do-over

Behind the Mask: I request a do-over originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Behind the Mask: What Archetypes really need

Patrick Mackey — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Classes, Free-to-play, Champions Online, Behind the Mask

One of the main draws of Champions Online is character customization. Costume creation is one part of that, while open power selection is another. The two elements allow players to make heroes that truly feel unique. No two Champions look the same, and while it's very possible for two different heroes to play similarly, there are enough ways to express yourself in the system that creating a truly unique hero is a simple matter.

As we near the big launch of F2P, I can't help but be stuck on the idea of Archetypes. Having a hero fixed into a particular power build seems contrary to the nature of CO, and when those builds are inferior to Custom characters built for the exact same things, well... let's just say a lot of people, including many of you readers here at Massively, don't see eye-to-eye with the Archetype design decision.

Naturally, I have my own ideas. Restricting F2P players in some way to encourage premium subscriptions is definitely something Cryptic should do, but there are quite a number of reasons why the existing path is... just a bad idea.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: What Archetypes really need

Behind the Mask: What Archetypes really need originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DC Universe reveals Tomorrow District, today

Larry Everett — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 17:30:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Trailers, Video, Lore, New titles, DC Universe Online, Dev Diaries

If you are looking for the district that is the epitome of Metropolis, look no further than the Tomorrow District. This apex of technology guides all scientific advancements for the entirety DC Universe Online. Every gizmo you can imagine -- and not imagine -- is found here. Ever heard of a thermal-nuclear toothbrush? Yeah, neither have we, but the scientist in STAR Labs invented it. And STAR Labs is just one of the many gargantuan buildings your hero will find in this district of the future.

If it's gameplay opportunities you seek, the Tomorrow District is is designed specifically for your high-level character. Even though Jenet Kylburn works for the good guys, sometimes she cannot maintain control of everything STAR Labs produces. As Game Director Chris Cao said in regard to the STAR Labs scientists, "Sometimes their optimism exceeds their wisdom," and they have to call on the heroes to come save the day. However, because of the heaping amount of new technology in the area, the Tomorrow District attracts its share of villains looking to get their grubby paws on these advanced inventions.

After the break, Chris Cao provides a travelogue of the ups and downs of this exciting zone.

Continue reading DC Universe reveals Tomorrow District, today

DC Universe reveals Tomorrow District, today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dress up in new costumes with Super Hero Squad Online!

Larry Everett — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Super-hero, Trailers, Video, Events, in-game, New titles, Kids, Family, Super Hero Squad Online

Children of all ages (yup, that includes most of the adults out there) have dressed up for Halloween as their favorite super hero. The Super Hero Squad Online from Marvel and Gazillion is giving out new costumes for the kids (and adults) this trick-or-treat season. We all know what the classic Spider-man costume looks like, right? Well, why not try the black costume? Or maybe a red Hulk fits you better? Whatever best helps you to hero up! Each costume is not just a cover to wear over your existing costume, but they are full-fledged heroes with their own emotes and superpowers that are different from any other hero.

After the costume try-ons are over, go play the amazing online trading card game or save Super Hero City from evil. What? You haven't signed up for beta yet? Well, get over there an do it now, and while you're at it you can sign up your children, too. Gazillion is looking for a whole range of different testers! And if you haven't seen the "spooky" Halloween trailer, you can watch it by hitting "Read More" below.

'Nuff said.

Continue reading Dress up in new costumes with Super Hero Squad Online!

Dress up in new costumes with Super Hero Squad Online! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Environment and customization spotlighted in new DCUO images

Rubi Bayer — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Galleries, Screenshots, New titles, DC Universe Online

As Sony Online Entertainment continues to reveal images from DC Universe Online, the game environment is emerging as one of the game's standout features. Players have admired the attention to detail in familiar locations, and that's not all.

Some fans were a little concerned about available character customization -- particularly after the announcement regarding the ability to dress as your favorite hero -- but the last few rounds of screenshots have showed a wide range of available options and looks.

The newest screenshots are no exception. Check out the gallery below for another snapshot tour of DCUO and its citizens, both good and bad.

Gallery: DC Universe Online combat and locations

Environment and customization spotlighted in new DCUO images originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New DC Universe Online Inside the Studio video answers more questions

Krystalle Voecks — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Game mechanics, Interviews, New titles, News items, DC Universe Online

One of the things we love about DC Universe Online is the way Game Director Chris Cao and Creative Director Jens Andersen take time out of their undoubtedly busy schedules to answer questions that come in on the DC Universe Online Facebook page. The newest update to their Inside the Studio videos offers up another pile of questions asked by the community, with some amusing results.

From starting areas (Metropolis for metahumans, Gotham for technophiles, China Town for magical-origin characters), to the availability of regular street clothes (short answer: yes), and even questions about anthropomorphic animal heads, Cao and Andersen cover some really interesting ground. Pop by the DC Universe Online Facebook page to check out the full video -- and be sure to leave your questions for the developers while you're there!

New DC Universe Online Inside the Studio video answers more questions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PAX 2010: It's clobberin' time with SHSO's PvP online card game

Larry Everett — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Screenshots, Trailers, Video, Events, real-world, Interviews, New titles, Previews, PvP, Opinion, Free-to-play, Browser, Hands-on, Trading card games, Casual, Kids, Super Hero Squad Online

Massively has taken a swing at Marvel's Super Hero Squad Online several times in the last few months, now. So, on our trip to PAX, the boy-in-grown-up-shoes, Jay Minn, could not wait to show us the newly announced PvP portion of this dynamic game. Minn, who is the Director of Games for The Amazing Society, turned in to a giddy imp and directed me to a computer station that had a burning Human Torch on the screen, all prepared to fight some bad guys. Even though PvE wasn't what I was there to cover that day, Minn just had to show me anyway. "Click on a bad guy," he told me, "and good things just happen." I obliged; the Torch lit up and chased some bad guys away! At that point, we were told we had to move on to the PvP portion of the demonstration. Marketing people can be such spoil-sports sometimes.

The giddy grin returned to Minn's face as he gave me instructions on how to get into the online card game. In the lower right-hand corner simply sat an icon that looked like fanned-out cards. As part of the demo I was able to pick my opponent, and since I just love seeing the Ol' Canucklehead Wolverine get beaten down, I picked him for my enemy. And who is the best Marvel superhero? Spider-Man, of course. I had to choose him as my character.

Hero up with me after the break to find out the details of my adventure through this shiny and lively online card game.

Gallery: SHSO PAX 2010 Gallery

Continue reading PAX 2010: It's clobberin' time with SHSO's PvP online card game

PAX 2010: It's clobberin' time with SHSO's PvP online card game originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hero up! Hands-on with Marvel Super Hero Squad Online

Brianna Royce — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Business models, New titles, Previews, PvE, Free-to-play, Browser, Comics, Hands-on, Casual, Massively Hands-on, Family, Super Hero Squad Online

Back in May, I scored Massively's first real look at Super Hero Squad Online, the Marvel-flavored, kid-friendly MMO from Gazillion Entertainment and The Amazing Society. I was smitten with the game at the time, and so when Gazillion offered me the opportunity to take a peek at the newest build earlier this week, I jumped at the chance. Who can resist some hands-on time with such an adorable toy! (Answer to rhetorical question: no one, which is why you should go sign up for beta right now.) Plus, if I learned anything the last time, it was that I have a duty to relentlessly inquire about Squirrel Girl. Am I right?

Gazillion PR Manager Keith Mutzman and The Amazing Society's Director of Games Jay Minn wasted no time bringing me up to speed on the progress of the game as the team heads to PAX this weekend, so I'll pay that forward -- join me after the break and we'll dig in and hero up!

Continue reading Hero up! Hands-on with Marvel Super Hero Squad Online

Hero up! Hands-on with Marvel Super Hero Squad Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Massively talks Super Hero Squad Online with Jay Minn

Patrick Mackey — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Galleries, Screenshots, Interviews, Hands-on, Casual, Super Hero Squad Online

Last month, we gave you a sneak peek at Marvel Super Hero Squad Online, the shiny new Marvel MMO from Gazillion Entertainment and The Amazing Society. We showed you an inside look at the gameplay flow of SHSO, which allows players to choose from dozens of iconic Marvel characters and take on missions inside the Marvel universe.

Some people might be thinking of SHSO as the cutesy, kid-oriented Marvel MMO. That might be somewhat true in that it focuses on kid-friendly gameplay, but we got to take another tour of the game at E3, and we found that The Amazing Society's new offering gives a little something for gamers of all types.

We spoke with Jay Minn, Director of Games for The Amazing Society, and he had a lot to say about bringing in all kinds of gamers. Join us after the break for the scoop!

Continue reading Massively talks Super Hero Squad Online with Jay Minn

Massively talks Super Hero Squad Online with Jay Minn originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Super Hero Squad Online: No more "nameless sidekicks"

Brianna Royce — Wed, 19 May 2010 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, New titles, Previews, Browser, Marvel Heroes, Trading card games, Casual, First Impressions, Massively Event Coverage, Kids, Family, Super Hero Squad Online

These days, it takes a lot to impress me. Oh sure, I love MMOs. But sometimes I feel I'm in a rut, waiting for something new and different. Something that doesn't just have a "new" sticker, but actually has some new hook that will keep me happily playing -- not grinding -- more than a month. Something that will make me feel good about being a gamer again. Something cute and friendly that actually relieves stress rather than creating more.

That's why I was so surprised by Marvel Super Hero Squad Online, the official premiere of which I was lucky enough to attend yesterday in downtown San Francisco. (The folks at Gazillion Entertainment and The Amazing Society put on a great show!) I certainly didn't walk into the event expecting SHSO to pique more than my passing fancy. Comic book-themed games are definitely something I love, and Marvel couldn't be hotter right now, but let's be honest -- SHSO's press release and early screenshots suggest an overtly family-friendly, even kid-oriented, cartoony romp. I figured the game would be Free Realms in capes, and that Massively's readers would probably be more interested in the other Marvel MMO (simultaneously in development by Gazillion with Gargantuan Studios).

Well, I'm pleased to report that my preconceptions about Super Hero Squad Online were mostly wrong, and now I've got a new upcoming game to add to my "gotta buy" list. Join me on the flipside of the break and find out why SHSO seems poised to *POW* *ZAP* *BLAMMO* the casual MMO sweet spot!

Gallery: Super Hero Squad Online

Continue reading Super Hero Squad Online: No more "nameless sidekicks"

Super Hero Squad Online: No more "nameless sidekicks" originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 May 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots: Ewwww

Krystalle Voecks — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Screenshots, One Shots, Champions Online

We've had many readers send in easter eggs from their favorite games, but this is quite possibly one of the strangest ones we've seen to date, courtesy of The Don of the dead (@Muroshi) from Champions Online. Of course, we're not entirely certain what the inspiration behind this could be, really. If you haven't quite figured out what that thing is in the image above, be sure to click to the gallery and look at it full size -- or you could just read the note we got with this strange Champions Online shot: The Don of the dead found this toilet on one of the smokestacks in Millennium City Westside. Guess now we know where all that brown smog comes from.

If you've found something incredibly strange in your favorite MMO, we'd love to see a screenshot of it. Just snag it and send it in to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a brief description. We'll post it out here for everyone to check out and give you the credit for finding it and sending it in to us first!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

One Shots: Ewwww originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots: Ever vigilant

Krystalle Voecks — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Screenshots, One Shots, Champions Online

If you're a huge comic-book fan, then there's definitely something to be said for playing a comic-book MMO. When you're a serious role-playing fiend who loves comic books, it's even better! Today's picturesque Champions Online One Shots comes to us from Dusty Monk; blogger, gamer, and all around geek, who captured this great image of his superhero, Stiletto, on patrol. He decided to drop us a picture postcard from her point of view:

"They say crime never sleeps. Fine by me... neither do I. You want to pull something at 2:00 am? Expect to find me there.
Waiting." -- Stiletto

Have you captured a great moment of role-playing that you'd like to share with the rest of us? We'd love to check it out. Send it in to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a note. We'll post it out here and give you the credit!

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

One Shots: Ever vigilant originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DC Universe Online creative director answers questions from the fans

James Egan — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Interviews, New titles, DC Universe Online

One of the upcoming SOE titles we're hoping to hear more about is DC Universe Online -- the superhero MMO that will build on the DC Comics legacy. DC Universe Online's Creative Director Chris Cao recently did a video interview with DCUO Source that explains how the devs have approached the game's design.

Cao fielded a number of questions posed to him by the fansite's readers -- How will player feedback impact the game's development? Will there be voicework in DCUO from the actors who've voiced characters in the various DC animated series and video games (specifically, Kevin Conroy)? How will DCUO handle secret identities? All good questions. For the answers, check out the video interview with Chris Cao at DCUO Source.

[Via MMORPG.com]

DC Universe Online creative director answers questions from the fans originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots: Back in the day

Krystalle Voecks — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Screenshots, One Shots, Champions Online

While it hasn't been that long since Champions Online launched, looking back at the end of beta events still gives us a warm fuzzy for "back then." The other thing is that it makes us pretty psyched up for a Halloween event. After all, if end-of-beta was that much fun, then the holiday events should hopefully be at least as good - if not better. Today's Champions Online One Shots comes to us from Joe R. who gives us his RP spin on the event. During one of the last days of open beta, Millennium City was attacked by Mega Destroids! We were able to repel the attack, but not before we lost some good champions. They will be missed.

With the holidays coming, we really want to see some fun screenshots of new costume pieces, events, and more! Be sure to snag those strange October happenings and email them to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game, and a quick description. We'll post it out here for everyone to share in the thrills and chills - and give you the credit!

Gallery: One Shots

One Shots: Back in the day originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots: Walk softly and carry Two-Sticks

Krystalle Voecks — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Screenshots, One Shots, Champions Online

Champions Online seems to be churning out lots of changes in an effort to give the players even more fun for their dollar. If our One Shots folder is any indication, there are a bunch of people who are playing Champions Online and having a blast. One such example is Jonathon W. who sent in this heroic snap taken recently. He writes: The famed extra-terrestrial warrior, Two-Sticks, stands on the surface of a frozen lake, surrounded by massive boulders, trees and even a bear named Lug, floating through the air. This eerie landscape is a side-effect of a nefarious plot to raise an evil spirit known as Kigatilik. Though a showdown with this cosmic villain will have to wait for another time, this day, the summoner Rakshasa will meet his end.

One Shots needs your screenshots! While you're out adventuring this weekend, grab an image for us and send it in. All you have to do is email it to us at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name, the name of the game it's from, and a note letting us know what's going on. (Also, please make sure your image is at least 1024px across and has as few UI elements as is possible.) We'll post it out here and let everyone share in your tale!

One Shots: Walk softly and carry Two-Sticks originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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City of Heroes announces Guest Author Program for Mission Architect

James Egan — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, City of Heroes, City of Villains, News items

No doubt it's Champions Online that seems to be getting the superhero MMO headlines of late in the gaming press, both for the new title's release and for some of the issues they've had in relation to that launch. But competition is generally a good thing from a gamer's perspective, and City of Heroes is also stepping up their game, particularly in regards to the Mission Architect.

When the devs introduced the Mission Architect to City of Heroes, it was their first step towards embracing player-generated content and adding new dimensions to the game experience. They've announced that the next step with Mission Architect is to have a Guest Author Program where "comic book notables try their hand at mission design." NCsoft says the program will "invite influential writers and aspiring game or story designers" to collaborate with the City of Heroes devs and bring these missions into the game.

Continue reading City of Heroes announces Guest Author Program for Mission Architect

City of Heroes announces Guest Author Program for Mission Architect originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cryptic's Jack Emmert baffled by lack of MMOs on Xbox 360

James Egan — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Business models, Interviews, MMO industry, Consoles, Champions Online

A number of massively multiplayer online game developers have touted the fact that their titles will be playable on both PC and Xbox 360 but, with rare exceptions, they've failed to deliver on MMOs for this console. But can the blame for this really be laid solely at the feet of the developers? That seems to be the typical reaction, as many of us get frustrated over these broken promises. However, looking at the various titles that were aiming for 360 and missed, perhaps we should look at what all of these stories have in common: Microsoft. (Lest the fires of console fanboy rage blaze out of control, we're not exactly inundated with PlayStation 3 MMOs either.)

Patrick Garratt from VG247 recently spoke with Jack Emmert from Cryptic Studios about this issue, and his perspective on playing ball with Microsoft to get Champions Online on the 360. Emmert stated that Champions Online for Xbox is almost ready to go, but lack of action on Microsoft's part is holding up the project.

Continue reading Cryptic's Jack Emmert baffled by lack of MMOs on Xbox 360

Cryptic's Jack Emmert baffled by lack of MMOs on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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City of Heroes Issue 16 now in open beta

James Egan — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Super-hero, City of Heroes, City of Villains, News items

We've been writing about the new level of customization coming to City of Heroes with Issue 16, but the time has come to jump in and check out the next content update for yourself. NCsoft announced that Issue 16 "Power Spectrum" is now in open beta.

If you're interested in checking out the ways you'll be able to extend that signature City of Heroes depth of avatar customization to your powers as well, see NCsoft's instructions on how to get into The Training Room (the City of Heroes test server) and you'll be tweaking the look of your Electric Armor and Psionic Assaults in no time.

City of Heroes Issue 16 now in open beta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Roskilde University to open super-hero city and host machinima contest

Tateru Nino — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Contests, Events, in-game, News items, Second Life, Academic, Virtual worlds

Danish Roskilde University in Trekroner, Roskilde is celebrating the art of machinima with a competition kicking off in Second Life later this week. The competition coincides with the opening of the university's new Second Life research-center, "Metrotopia - City of Superheroes."

The launch event kicks off on Friday, 28 August at 11:30AM SLT (US Pacific time), and the details of the competition will be announced in conjunction with the opening address at Noon SLT.

Continue reading Roskilde University to open super-hero city and host machinima contest

Roskilde University to open super-hero city and host machinima contest originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Anti-Aliased: I'm a champion, and so can you

Seraphina Brennan — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: At a glance, Betas, Super-hero, Culture, Game mechanics, New titles, Opinion, Hands-on, Champions Online, Anti-Aliased

So last time we had an Anti-Aliased, we had a bit of a tussle. I talked about microtransactions and how I felt about Champions Online's model, and I heard from people who agreed with me, disagreed with me, and who thought I was getting fat bribes from Cryptic Studios. I had people picking apart my thoughts, people saying I was Bill Roper's puppet, and people who really couldn't care less. It was insane.

Through all of this though, I want to thank everyone who put in their thoughts onto the article. Even if you disagreed with me, I love seeing that type of discussion going through a topic, and I really appreciate everyone taking the time to make their voices heard, even if it was to tell me that I've sold my integrity. (Which I haven't, by the way.)

This week however, we're changing gears but not changing them entirely. It's Champions Online NDA lift time, and boy do I have a preview for you! The rest of their staff got their turn earlier this morning, but now it's my turn to be horribly opinionated with all the words I can fit in my article.

Is it good? Is it bad? Is it kind of eh? Well, I'm not saying anything -- I'm just going to relate my initial experiences to you, with snark!

Continue reading Anti-Aliased: I'm a champion, and so can you

Anti-Aliased: I'm a champion, and so can you originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Champions Online NDA has dropped

James Egan — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Betas, Super-hero, MMO industry, New titles, News items, Champions Online

Champions Online closed beta testers, please observe a moment of silence for your now-deleted characters. They died yesterday as part of the server wipe to make the world a better place for open beta, which kicks off today. The biggest news here is that the NDA is now lifted, and we're expecting there will be a flood of impressions about Champions Online in the coming days from people who've spent time in the game.

The Cryptic Studios superhero MMO will enter open beta today at 10 a.m. PDT, and will last through August 24th at 10 a.m. PDT. Barring unforeseen technical issues, daily server downtime is scheduled from 1 a.m. PDT - 3 a.m. PDT. Aside from that, open beta testers have a solid week of gameplay ahead of them.

Continue reading Champions Online NDA has dropped

Champions Online NDA has dropped originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Daily Grind: Is space the "final frontier" for MMOs?

Brooke Pilley — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: MMO industry, The Daily Grind

"Space: the final frontier." Sounds a bit short-sighted, doesn't it? I mean, no offense to the ghost of Gene Roddenberry, but we've barely scratched the surface of what's out there beyond our atmosphere. To claim that it is the "final frontier" to be explored, charted, and colonized may not be entirely accurate. But, it does make for a catchy slogan and a great series of TV shows, movies, and games (ok, games... historically, not so much).

Thus far, "space" may appear to be the final frontier in MMOs as well, but to claim it as such is also short-sighted. The creativity of the human mind is a great thing. I'm sure we'll conjure up some novel concepts or twists on old themes or settings and make them work. The two biggest MMO sub-genres so far are undoubtedly Fantasy and Science Fiction (often space-oriented). Superhero MMOs are making a run for it and so are MMOs in post-apocalytic settings. There are even a plethora of oddly-themed kids games too.

Are there any genres we haven't thoroughly tapped yet? What about Horror? Mystery? Crime? Modern warfare? As for settings, what about Earth present? Earth historic? Alternate dimensions? Fairly tales? What genres and settings are you itching to explore?

The Daily Grind: Is space the "final frontier" for MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Champions Online dev chat answers questions from the fans

James Egan — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Game mechanics, New titles, Champions Online

The superhero MMO Champions Online is slated for a launch very soon, right around the corner in September. Cryptic Studios has continued to hold dev chats leading up to the game's release, which can be a good source of info about Champions Online, particularly if you haven't had a chance to check out the game's beta tests. The latest dev chat let the Champions fan base pose questions to the developers, including Lead Designer Randy Mosiondz and Reward Systems Designer Cormac Russell, among other devs working on the game.

The dev chat addressed a range of questions and concerns, such as what Champions Online will bring to MMORPGs and the superhero game genre that we don't already have. The title's creators also explained the extent of Champions Online's crafting system, including how players will be able to craft Techniques, essentially items that impart abilities. There's also plenty more about unlockable costumes and how the game is designed to prevent players from creating (overly) godlike custom Power Frameworks. You can check out what the Cryptic devs have to say about Champions Online over on the game's official forums.

Champions Online dev chat answers questions from the fans originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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DC Universe Online creators talk about S.T.A.R. Labs and game storylines

James Egan — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Lore, New titles, DC Universe Online

Comic-Con International is underway in San Diego, and we're already hearing some news about the superhero MMO genre. The latest info about DC Universe Online comes from a Wired article by Frank Rose which focuses on S.T.A.R. Labs, the futuristic glass and steel location familiar to anyone who grew up reading DC comic books or watched the Superman animated TV series.

S.T.A.R. Labs, short for Scientific and Technical Advanced Research Laboratories, will be a hub of storyline activity in the MMO. It's fitting, as this is a place where great scientific advances are made, but also a place where things can go horribly wrong. This means it's perfect neutral ground to be incorporated into DC Universe Online, and the location will tie in with the respective storylines of the game's heroes and villains.

Continue reading DC Universe Online creators talk about S.T.A.R. Labs and game storylines

DC Universe Online creators talk about S.T.A.R. Labs and game storylines originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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An early peek at the DC Universe Online storyline

James Egan — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 17:30:00 EST

Filed under: Super-hero, Interviews, New titles, Quests, DC Universe Online

DC Universe Online is a superhero MMO in development at Sony Online Entertainment, but one that we didn't get to see much of at E3 2009. That's not going to be the situation with Comic-Con International which is happening this week in San Diego. The DC Universe Online team will be on hand and will hopefully reveal more about the game.

While you won't get to play as Superman, Batman, or Wonder Woman, you will begin the game as a hero who fights alongside such comic book icons. In fact, once you roll a character you'll choose a specialty from among super powers, tech powers, or magic powers. That choice will determine the storyline you begin with, according to info revealed in a Variety article. Sony Online Entertainment gave Chris Morris from Variety's 'The Cut Scene' an exclusive on how players will begin the game.

Continue reading An early peek at the DC Universe Online storyline

An early peek at the DC Universe Online storyline originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cryptic Studios clarifies microtransactions in Star Trek Online

James Egan — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sci-fi, Business models, Game mechanics, MMO industry, News items, Star Trek Online

We noticed quite a stir in our last post about microtransactions in an upcoming Cryptic Studios game. The post in question was about Champions Online, which explained how Cryptic plans to keep the microtransaction system balanced. Quite a number of commenters at Massively expressed the view that the game should either be subscription or microtransaction-based, one or the other, and not a hybrid of the two.

That debate isn't confined to Cryptic's superhero MMO, however. The company's approach to microtransactions with Champions Online will be applied to Star Trek Online as well, according to a recent forum post by Jackalope (Jack Emmert) from the Cryptic Studios dev team.

Continue reading Cryptic Studios clarifies microtransactions in Star Trek Online

Cryptic Studios clarifies microtransactions in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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