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 Game Archaeologist and the What Ifs: Climax's Warhammer Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-what-ifs-climaxs-warhammer-onli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-what-ifs-climaxs-warhammer-onli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-what-ifs-climaxs-warhammer-onli/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Let's begin with a little personal history. Back in 2008, I decided to get into the blogging scene by jumping on board the latest MMO hotness -- in this case, Warhammer Online. As I was growing increasingly tired of World of Warcraft, WAR seemed to offer a refreshing alternative: a darker world full of brutal PvP and awesome new ideas. So I joined the elite ranks of bloggers (hey, stop laughing so hard) and spent the better part of two years jawing about Mythic's latest fantasy project.

And while Warhammer Online was, in my opinion, a solid product, it certainly failed to live up to the extremely high expectations held by both the development team and the players. No matter how it turned out, I really enjoyed talking about WAR, especially in the days leading up to its launch.

One of the first articles I ever wrote for my blog WAAAGH! dealt with the first attempt to bring Warhammer Online into the MMO genre (as a fun aside, it was one of the first times I got my name on Massively!). It's a "what if?" tale that's tantalizing to consider -- an entirely different studio, Climax Online, creating a much darker version of Warhammer than we've ever seen online. The tale of the game's rise and fall (and subsequent rise and fall again) captivated me, and I wanted to expand my old article as part of our recent series into exploring MMOs canceled before their launch.

So what if Climax had brought Warhammer Online to bear? Would it have eclipsed Mythic's vision or been its own animal? Hit the jump and let's dive into the pages of ancient history!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the What Ifs: Climax's Warhammer Online

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the What Ifs: Climax's Warhammer Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academicadventureraltdorfcharacter-designclassclassesclimaxclimax-groupclimax-onlineDavid-Nicholsondwarvese3e3-2003e3-2004ea-mythicelvesfeaturedgames-workshopgamezonehalflingsKarl-Jefferylive-eventsmagicmaster-assassinmicrosoftmythicmythic-entertainmentogresoverlordpaul-barnettplaystationpvpreiklandrobin-dewsrogueseasonssegasilent-hillskill-basedsunglassessypwaaghwarwar-is-everywherewarhammerwarhammer-fantasywarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-age-of-reckoningwarriorweatherweather-eventsTue, 12 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 105]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/massively-speaking-episode-105/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/massively-speaking-episode-105/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/massively-speaking-episode-105/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 105 returns to the news this week as Shawn is joined by LotRO columnist and news blogger extraordinaire Justin Olivetti, aka Syp. Discussion includes APB's launch day, Fallout Online, DDO Update 5, Global Agenda going F2P and much more.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to shawn AT massively DOT com. Maybe we'll read your letter on the air!

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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 105

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 105 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>massively-metamassively-speakingopinionpodcastingpodcastssypWed, 30 Jun 2010 15:30:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 105Massively.com Staff48:00podcasts<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Ultima Prize: My journey]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-ultima-prize-my-journey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-ultima-prize-my-journey/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-ultima-prize-my-journey/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Game Archaeologist is your spunky Tuesday column devoted to exploring the MMORPGs of yesterday.

Enough is enough! No more looking back at history, talking to the players who have been there, or even chatting up the creator of the game -- it was time for the Game Archaeologist to man up and play Ultima Online himself. And so it was with trembling fingers and steely eyes that I downloaded the trial client and entered the game for the very first time.

I will be honest and admit to a degree of nervousness. It's one thing to talk about a great MMO legend; it's another entirely to experience it first-hand. I didn't really know what to expect -- would it be so hardcore that I'd die before I finished? Would it be so ancient, so creaky that I wouldn't be able to figure it out without a degree in assembly code? Would it... be fun?

Fortunately, I was not alone in this journey, as Tipa from West Karana graciously agreed to accompany me for an evening full of Ultimas and Onlines. Oh, the spellchecker simply did not like that one. Tough noogies. Ultima Online has a nice 14-day unlimited trial that doesn't even require a credit card to access, so after a few minutes of patching (UO is tiny compared to many modern MMOs), we were in. And completely, utterly lost.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Ultima Prize: My journey

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Ultima Prize: My journey originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 May 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assembly-code-ruleschampions-onlineea-mythiceverquest-2everquest-iifeaturednaughty-cougarnew havenNewHavenRichard-Garriottsamurai-piratestrangled-car-metaphorssypthe-game-archaeologisttipaUltima-Onlineunlimited-trialuowest-karanaTue, 25 May 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Your face is 'still in beta']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/the-digital-continuum-your-face-is-still-in-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/the-digital-continuum-your-face-is-still-in-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/the-digital-continuum-your-face-is-still-in-beta/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There's been discussion recently of the failings of "Dude, it's a beta!" as an argumentative device when someone makes a critical observation about an MMO during the beta process. Syp over at Bio Break takes the stance that people who say things like this are either considerable fanboys or have severe brain health issues. Of course, he then pulls away from that statement by declaring that the truth lies somewhere between the person claiming a game is "suck" and the person defending said title's honor with, well, "It's beta, dude."

I, however, think differently -- and it's probably not what you're expecting.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Your face is 'still in beta'

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Your face is 'still in beta' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribetabio-breakcrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedopinionstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestosypthe-digital-continuumMon, 25 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The elusive breed of the console MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/the-elusive-breed-of-the-console-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/the-elusive-breed-of-the-console-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/the-elusive-breed-of-the-console-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Much like the Loch Ness Monster, the console MMO is a rarely-seen creature which nevertheless has captured the imagination of many. (Unlike the monster, console MMOs are not admitted hoaxes perpetuated by willing disbelief and a lakeside town's need for tourist revenue.) We've yet to see much progress made toward console MMOs, despite the huge available market (see also: China) and the increasingly robust hardware of consoles. Even more notable is the fact we've already seen publishers promising the game for consoles without it happening, with Age of Conan and Champions Online being the biggest offenders. What's the problem?

Syp recently asked and tried to answer this very question, noting that most of the problems come from the console hardware, both its short lifespan and lack of several input devices. Still, it hasn't stopped many from playing and enjoying Final Fantasy XI on the Playstation 2, nor does Sqare-Enix seem worried about placing Final Fantasy XIV on a console. The lifespan of consoles can also be somewhat elastic -- almost anyone who plays console games holds on to their systems longer than their market lifespan. Gordon at We Fly Spitfires believes it may be a split in audience, since computers are more ubiquitous than consoles -- but computers capable of serious gaming are far less common than the PS2. Whether a hardware issue or one of audiience, the breed remains elusive, though the subject of far fewer undewater searches and TV specials than the aforementioned lake monster.

MassivelyThe elusive breed of the console MMO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocbio-breakchampions-onlinecoconsole-mmoconsolesffxiffxivfinal-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivloch-nessloch-ness-monsteropinionsypwe-fly-spitfiresTue, 19 Jan 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 82: Taking a Biobreak with Syp]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/30/massively-speaking-episode-82-taking-a-biobreak-with-syp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/30/massively-speaking-episode-82-taking-a-biobreak-with-syp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/30/massively-speaking-episode-82-taking-a-biobreak-with-syp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 82 returns from the holiday vacation with special guest Syp from BioBreak who joins Shawn and Rubi to discuss a bit of news from the last two weeks. But the main focus of this final episode of 2009 is to hash out the trends we've seen during the year, and what we predict for 2010.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot us an email to podcast AT massively DOT com. Maybe we'll read your letter on the air!

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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 82: Taking a Biobreak with Syp

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 82: Taking a Biobreak with Syp originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bio-breakfeaturedmassively-speakingpodcastingpodcastssypWed, 30 Dec 2009 10:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 82Massively.com Staff62:54podcasts<![CDATA[Will Star Trek Online be ready for its launch?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/will-star-trek-online-be-ready-for-its-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/will-star-trek-online-be-ready-for-its-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/will-star-trek-online-be-ready-for-its-launch/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


It's no secret that a lot of people in the MMO blogosphere are excited about Star Trek Online, considering that it's more or less a built-in home run from many of the same people who play MMOs. But there are certainly questions to be asked about any MMO due out soon, especially one with three more months before it hits launch day. Bio Break asks the question in simplest terms: will the game really be all set for a February release?

As Syp mentions, the game's videos and screenshots have pushed combat heavily in a series renowned for protagonists talking through their problems instead of shooting first. With the currently allotted time for beta, if something major does crop up, there's not much to be done to fix it in the short span of time without resorting to a launch day patch. There's a definite question of readiness when Champions Online had a launch that was somewhat stormy, and it certainly did some damage to Cryptic in the eyes of a lot of players. That doesn't mean that Star Trek Online won't be excellent, of course, but it does mean a healthy does of skepticism might be in order.

MassivelyWill Star Trek Online be ready for its launch? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabetasbio-breakcrypticcryptic-studioslaunchesnew-titlesopinionstar-trek-onlinestosypThu, 12 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth fan: "Don't play Fallen Earth"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/18/fallen-earth-fan-dont-play-fallen-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/18/fallen-earth-fan-dont-play-fallen-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/18/fallen-earth-fan-dont-play-fallen-earth/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

You should most definitely not be playing Fallen Earth. How can you tell? Why, because Bio Break recently posted a long article explaining exactly why you shouldn't be playing it. And this isn't coming from a fan who's just disgruntled about a certain update or class rebalancing (though the latter would be pretty funny) -- it's from one of the game's most adamant fans who has no shortage of good things to say about the game. So why would he tell you not to play the game?

One of the best things a fan can have is perspective. In his piece, Syp outlines all of the reasons that most players, even if they've been enamoured of the game's press, might want to use extreme caution stepping into Fallen Earth for the first time. Technical problems such as the server instability issues, of course, are likely to be improved -- but the game's unforgiving character-building system, its dwarfing sense of scale when the players get started, and the survivalist attitude that the game tacitly enforces are all part of the charm of the game. Of course, he's not suggesting that the game is bad -- but giving everyone a much-needed dose of perspective on a game that's really not well-suited to everyone.

MassivelyFallen Earth fan: "Don't play Fallen Earth" originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bio-breakfallen-earthfeicarusopinionserver-issuessypSun, 18 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Survival tips for Fallen Earth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/26/survival-tips-for-fallen-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/26/survival-tips-for-fallen-earth/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/26/survival-tips-for-fallen-earth/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Fallen Earth is one of most recent titles to arrive on the MMO scene. If you weren't a beta tester, though, you might have some questions about the best way to progress in the game. Syp over at Bio Break put together some tips to help Fallen Earth players get a handle on the game, and hopefully points out a few overlooked aspects of this post-apocalyptic title. Some of his tips are practical and relate to game mechanics or common mistakes made, others are simply advice from someone who's clearly spent a lot of time wandering the wasteland.

Pair Syp's "20 Tips for Fallen Earthers" with Massively's "FAQ That" for Fallen Earth and you should be well on your way to getting the most from the newly released title. Also don't miss our Fallen Earth guides -- A WoW player's guide to Fallen Earth and the Beginner's guide to horse crafting -- for a closer look at what this MMO can offer.

MassivelySurvival tips for Fallen Earth originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 26 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bio-breakfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcgame-mechanicsguidesicarus-studiospost-apocalypticsci-fisyptipstips-and-tricksSat, 26 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Are new MMOs afraid to take risks?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/are-new-mmos-afraid-to-take-risks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/are-new-mmos-afraid-to-take-risks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/are-new-mmos-afraid-to-take-risks/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Syp over at BioBreak is working on an interesting gaming project. He is valiantly attempting to flesh out a timeline for all MMOs in the history... of MMOs. While working on this project, he came to a stunning, if not somewhat obvious realization: MMOs don't take as many risks as they used to and the ones that do aren't rewarded for it. The latter is likely feeding the former in this situation.

It seems with all emerging genres that the pioneers really are just that; the risk-takers who pave the way for future products (or services). Over time though, this innovative spirit is lost or at least lessened to a great degree, and when it comes to satisfying the masses, it is somewhat understandable. Take the television, music, and motion picture industries for example. How many hospital dramas have we seen since E.R. first aired? How many recycled pop music tracks fuel success for the next big boy or girl band? We just can't wait to see the next super-hero movie sequel! While individuals may crave fresh ideas and implementations, "the masses," just don't seem interested.

However, not all creativity is lost. There are a number of independent MMO developers working on niche titles that might catch your eye. Don't bet on them being a huge hit with the masses, though we're sure they're just fine with that.

MassivelyAre new MMOs afraid to take risks? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biobreakearthrisefallen-earthindependentindie-designerslovemmo-timelinesypTue, 01 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten things to know when starting Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/ten-things-to-know-when-starting-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/ten-things-to-know-when-starting-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/ten-things-to-know-when-starting-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Every time a new MMO launches, there's always a good list of things that wouldn't hurt for a new player to know, and Champions Online is no different. We're all about making your first steps into an unknown game as grief free as possible, so check out Syp's list if you're interested in such a proposal. He's got a very good rundown on things you need to know when entering the tutorial zone.

The first tip is likely the biggest one to remember. Your stats really do matter in Champions Online, so for all you City of Heroes players looking to check it out, keep that in mind. The second one we recommend all people take notice of is the "Get a Defensive Power" tip, which really is a must for the game, even if you're not planning on soloing too much -- but supremely important if you're gonna go that route.

MassivelyTen things to know when starting Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosguidesyptipsWed, 26 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GenCon Indy 09: Mythic and BioWare and Cryptic, oh my!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/gencon-indy-09-mythic-and-bioware-and-cryptic-oh-my/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/gencon-indy-09-mythic-and-bioware-and-cryptic-oh-my/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/14/gencon-indy-09-mythic-and-bioware-and-cryptic-oh-my/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Syp of the BioBreak blog drove five-and-a-half hours to Indianapolis to experience GenCon Indy 2009 for a day and he surely didn't waste any time chatting with a few of the biggest MMO developers out there. He managed to get some one-on-one time with Robert Mull and Andy Belford of Mythic, Chris Priestly of BioWare, and Jack Emmert of Cryptic.

Andy discussed Mythic's revised approach to Warhammer Online's development, some misconceptions about server performance, and his role in the Second Skin MMO documentary amongst other things. Chris was unable to talk about Star Wars: The Old Republic specifically as he was there to pitch Dragon Age: Origins, however, there is a little tidbit about ehancements they're making to their morality system, which fans will be sure to speculate upon. Finally, Jack seems confident that Champions Online hype will drastically escalate via word of mouth once the NDA drops.

Check out Syp's trip to Indy part one and part two. It's full of interesting information about the convention and boasts numerous photos of himself, some devs, and the growd in general. He notes a bit of disappointment that neither Blizzard nor Turbine were in attendance, otherwise, he'd surely have assaulted them with questions too.

MassivelyGenCon Indy 09: Mythic and BioWare and Cryptic, oh my! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy-belfordbiowareblizzardchampions-onlinechris-priestlycryptic-studiosdragon-age-originsgencon-indy-09jack-emmertmythic-entertainmentrobert-mullsecond-skinstar-wars-the-old-republicsypturbinewarhammer-onlineFri, 14 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Richard Bartle encourages MMO writers to make people think]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/richard-bartle-encourages-mmo-writers-to-make-people-think/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/richard-bartle-encourages-mmo-writers-to-make-people-think/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/22/richard-bartle-encourages-mmo-writers-to-make-people-think/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Richard Bartle wrote an interesting QBlog post on the art of quest design using WoW's Stranglethorn Vale zone as a model. This elicited a number of responses from various MMO bloggers. Scott Jennings had very few positive things to say about STV, while Tobold mused about STV's relevance in today's MMO landscape given its age and Syp and Raegn pointed out a perceived condescension.

It's always time to grab a hot cup of coffee when someone vocally disagrees with Dr. Bartle because he will always engage in a discussion and defend his views. He took special offense to Syp and Raegn when called out as being condescending in his original article and urged more people to write things about MMOs that make others re-think and take the genre more seriously.

In response to Syp, Bartle wrote: "If you haven't done this kind of analysis, OK, I'm calling you out: write one. Go on, choose any quest from WoW and explain what it's saying. You say you can see behind the curtain: show us. I want the art, not the craft. I don't intend to seem arrogant or mean here, although I'm sure that won't make any difference to how what I just asked is interpreted. I'm pushing because I want to encourage people to think of MMOs as art, not as low culture."

In response to Raegn, Bartle wrote: "I urge you, if you see something you like, that takes MMOs in a new direction, that says something that makes you think (you don't have to agree with it - so long as it makes you think), then please give it publicity. Then, you'll have people who genuinely deserve your praise, not someone who is merely where they are through an accident of history."

MassivelyRichard Bartle encourages MMO writers to make people think originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 May 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artdesignquestsraegnrichard-bartlescott-jenningsstranglethorn-valesyptoboldworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 22 May 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An interview with Mythic's Live Events Lead, Mark Davis]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/an-interview-with-mythics-mark-davis-live-event-lead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/an-interview-with-mythics-mark-davis-live-event-lead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/an-interview-with-mythics-mark-davis-live-event-lead/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If you were a fan of Witching Night, Heavy Metal, Keg's End, Night of Murder, and Bitter Rivals, you will probably enjoy this interrogation of, er, interview with Mark Davis, Live Events Lead for Warhammer Online. Syp of the WAAAGH! Blog had a chance to ask Mark some interesting questions about these events, which surprisingly weren't even a planned feature until shortly after the game's release.

According to Mark, Mythic received the most positive feedback for the Night of Murder event, which focused primarily on RvR. They received the worst feedback for the PvE-heavy Keg's End event. The dedicated team is always trying to improve Live Events based on player feedback and finding new ways to incorporate them into the Warhammer IP. If you enjoy re-occurring seasonal/holiday themed events, you will not be disappointed as they plan to bring them back bigger and better each time around. Check out the WAAAGH! Blog for the full interview, including an interesting list of lessons learned since unleashing their first Live Event.

Do you have a favorite event? If so, why?

MassivelyAn interview with Mythic's Live Events Lead, Mark Davis originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bitter-rivalsheavy-metalkegs-endlive-eventsmark-davismythic-entertainmentnight-of-murdersypwarwarhammer-onlinewitching-nightThu, 19 Mar 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic's Josh Drescher interviewed on patch 1.2, official forums, and beyond]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/mythics-josh-drescher-interviewed-on-patch-1-2-official-forums/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/mythics-josh-drescher-interviewed-on-patch-1-2-official-forums/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/mythics-josh-drescher-interviewed-on-patch-1-2-official-forums/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The always witty and rambunctious Syp of the WAAAGH! Blog recently had a chance to chat with Warhammer Online Producer, Josh Drescher. Josh took time out of his busy schedule to give some insight behind Mythic's patching process, stance on official forum moderation, and how they try to achieve class balance.

Don't be surprised to see another monster patch rivalling that of 1.2 in the future, but expect many smaller patches as well. Their only patching philosophy is not wanting to follow a defined patching schedule because doing so can lead to all kinds quality of issues.

The official WAR forums are heavily moderated to prevent "Internet toughguys" from cluttering up the discussion. Mythic hopes their forums will be a place where they can hear the players' voices easily and clearly and the players can hear what the devs are saying and planning without having to scour the Web.

Josh also paints a picture of the ever-complicated issue of combat and careers balance. To learn more about this and other creamy WAR goodness that came up in the discussion, make sure to head over to the WAAAGH! blog for the full scoop.

MassivelyMythic's Josh Drescher interviewed on patch 1.2, official forums, and beyond originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.2-patchinterviewjosh-dreschermythic-entertainmentsypwarwarhammer-onlineWed, 11 Mar 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A one-month review of WAR's Tome of Knowledge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/01/a-one-month-review-of-wars-tome-of-knowledge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/01/a-one-month-review-of-wars-tome-of-knowledge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/01/a-one-month-review-of-wars-tome-of-knowledge/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Some of us at Massively are fans of "Waaagh!", a Warhammer Online blog written by Syp. He recently put together a review of Warhammer Online's Tome of Knowledge, one month in. The Tome of Knowledge is one of the more interesting features we've seen in an MMO to date, and may well open new avenues for other MMO developers to explore as the industry matures. That said, it's certainly not perfect.

Syp breaks down how the Tome of Knowledge alternately exceeds and fails to live up to his expectations. This comprehensive look is broken down by category: Unlock Rate, RvR Unlocks, Secrets vs. Goals, Stories and Quotes, Fluff and Rewards, Titles, Bragging Rights, Nudity and Chickens, Limitations and Absences, Tome Tactics, User Interface, and Out of Game Experience. That's a fairly thorough assessment of the Tome, we'd say. Syp does have one caveat though: "This list isn't a series of 'Why I hate the Tome', but hopefully you've read it as 'I am quite fond of the Tome and want to see it get a lot better' analysis and suggestions." Be sure to have a look at Syp's "The Tome of Knowledge: A One-Month Review" for a comprehensive analysis of one of WAR's most unique features, and see if you agree with him.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyA one-month review of WAR's Tome of Knowledge originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 01 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasygame-mechanicsmmo-industryopinionsyptometome-of-knowledgeunlockunlockswaaaghwarwarhammer-onlineSat, 01 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Factors that could make or break WAR's longterm success]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/factors-that-could-make-or-break-wars-longterm-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/factors-that-could-make-or-break-wars-longterm-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/factors-that-could-make-or-break-wars-longterm-success/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Syp over at the Waaagh! Warhammer Online blog looks at the title's 750,000 registered players figure and observes that merely buying the box (or the download) shouldn't necessarily imply that monthly subscription dollars will follow. There are a number of factors involved that will determine how well Warhammer Online does in the long run. There's no doubt that WAR is enjoying its time in the limelight -- even lukewarm reviews of the title still give it decent ratings, not to mention the hardcore contingent of players who are either fans of the IP or simply love that it's not World of Warcraft. But are many of these registered players only in WAR for the time being?

Syp writes about this in his "Future Tense" post, and breaks down the factors that could make or break the title's success in the long run, not limited to the upcoming expansions from other titles, word of mouth, and the longshot of breaking the pop culture barrier, as WoW has.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyFactors that could make or break WAR's longterm success originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>box-salesdownloadea-mythicfailurefantasyipmythicsuccesssypwaaaghwarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 12 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reviewing the WAR strategy guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/reviewing-the-war-strategy-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/reviewing-the-war-strategy-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/reviewing-the-war-strategy-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Can we even begin to list the ways in which a printed MMO strategy guide is worthless? We think not, yet they still seem to sell, and Gamestop employees still seem to get us to buy one with that crazy retail faux-bargain voodoo of theirs. So in a recent post by Syp over at the Waaagh blog, he turns his regrettable purchase into an actual review of the Warhammer Online Prima Strategy guide.

As you might guess, he doesn't have many nice things to say about these guides. Admittedly, it's just not feasible to create a static guide for an ever-changing game. However, Syp does highlight one aspect of the guide that is semi-useful: the career sections. Apparently, it's the only place "with charts that try to detail abilities, morales, tactics and mastery paths," although they're painfully out of date already. If you've purchased any of these guides, let us know what you think.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyReviewing the WAR strategy guide originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mythicprimastrategy-guidesypwaaaghwarwarhammer-onlineMon, 06 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO features that haven't made it into Warhammer Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/mmo-features-that-havent-made-it-into-warhammer-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/mmo-features-that-havent-made-it-into-warhammer-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/mmo-features-that-havent-made-it-into-warhammer-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Among the legions of fortunate Warhammer Online fans that have played through beta and the preview weekend is Syp from the Waaagh! blog. He's always entertaining and it's clear he's passionate about Warhammer Online. So when he writes about features in other MMOs that he'd like to see in WAR, you know he's not bashing a game that's not even out of the gate yet. Rather, he's genuinely looking at ways the game could be better.

Syp puts forth his ideal WAR feature set, which includes capturable and trainable pets similar to World of Warcraft's system and the player-created content and sidekicks of City of Heroes. Syp would also like to see WAR include an in-game music player like EVE Online, and other features drawn from Everquest 2 and Lord of the Rings Online. Have a look at the Waaagh! "10 features" post and see if you agree with him on what could make Warhammer Online a better title.
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out all of our previous Warhammer Online features, and don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyMMO features that haven't made it into Warhammer Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescity-of-heroesdungeondungeonseveeve-onlineeverquest-2fantasyfeaturesgame-featureslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromusicmusic-playermythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftopinionpetsplayer-createdplayer-created-contentsidekicksidekickssoesonysony-online-entertainmentsypturbinewaaaghwarwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftWed, 03 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Just say no to bad guild names]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/just-say-no-to-bad-guild-names/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/just-say-no-to-bad-guild-names/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/just-say-no-to-bad-guild-names/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There you are, poised at the ready. The guild you've created is almost complete! You've gathered a few friends for potential guild-mates. You've discussed the general focus of the guild. Now all you need is a name! You've come up with a few, but for some reason, your friends keep rejecting your suggestions concerning LOLcats, Prince Caspian or the latest song by the Jonas Brothers. What gives?!

Well, according to a recent blog post by Syp over at the Waaagh! blog, you're just doing it wrong. Not to worry though, because Syp compiled a comprehensive list of what to avoid while considering a guild name or tag. Even if you've already created your perfect guild and you're just curious about the effectiveness of your name, check out the blog post. Chances are, you did it wrong.

[Thanks Syp!]

MassivelyJust say no to bad guild names originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guildguild-namesguild-tagnamessypwaaaghMon, 09 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The 10 Commandments of Altitis]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/the-10-commandments-of-altitis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/the-10-commandments-of-altitis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/30/the-10-commandments-of-altitis/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


If you're the type of player who just needs to experiment with every available race and class in your MMO of choice, then altaholicism may be a serious concern for you. Seeking professional help is optional, but do know that you are not alone. Together we can fight to one day concentrate on a single primary character, and one character alone! Unite brothers and sisters!

Ahem. Anyway, if you are suffering from altitis, you may want to check out Syp's newest post over at his Waaagh blog. He shares with us his 10 commandments for anyone suffering with altitis, and his best tips on how to not only use alts to your advantage, but also embrace your indecisiveness. Afterall, there's nothing wrong with experimenting. Just don't inhale.

MassivelyThe 10 Commandments of Altitis originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altitisaltssypwaaaghwarhammer-onlinewowWed, 30 Apr 2008 15:30:00 EST