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[Next TERA CBT weekend brings level cap increase, new dungeon, and PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/next-tera-cbt-weekend-brings-level-cap-increase-new-dungeon-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/next-tera-cbt-weekend-brings-level-cap-increase-new-dungeon-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/next-tera-cbt-weekend-brings-level-cap-increase-new-dungeon-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA artwork -- Sinestral Manor
Here we are at the beginning of another week which TERA fans are certain to be anxiously waiting to end because this weekend marks the game's second North American closed beta weekend. During the last test, players got to experience the game's PvE content all the way up to level 22, including the Bastion of Lok instance. Well, this time around En Masse Entertainment is going to be opening up the gates to five additional levels of content, allowing players to progress to level 27. Testers will also gain access to a new dungeon known as Sinestral Manor, and each player will get two character slots per server rather than just one.

Oh, and speaking of servers, we hear there's going to be a new one. Players will be able to test their skills against one another on Valley of Trials, the new PvP server. To top it off, En Masse has also revealed a bit of new information on how PvP combat will work. Open-world combat will be initiated when a player uses an ability known as Outlaw Declaration, which does what it says on the tin: It declares the caster an outlaw, allowing him to attack (and presumably, be attacked by) other players for 60 seconds or until combat is over. But single combat isn't the only way to get your PvP fix. Guilds can also declare war on other guilds by using the item Bahaar's Spark of War Declaration, which can be purchased in capital cities. After war has been declared, members of opposing guilds will be able to attack one another on sight.

So there you have it, folks. That's what we've got to look forward to this next beta weekend. We hope to see you all on the battlefield.

MassivelyNext TERA CBT weekend brings level cap increase, new dungeon, and PvP originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-weekendbeta-weekend-2blueholebluehole-studiocbtcbt-2closed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-test-2closed-beta-weekendclosed-beta-weekend-2en-masseen-masse-entertainmentplayer-vs-playerpvpsinestral-manorteratera-onlinethe-exiled-realm-of-arboreavalley-of-trialsMon, 20 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA reflects on lessons learned from first CBT weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/tera-reflects-on-lessons-learned-from-first-cbt-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/tera-reflects-on-lessons-learned-from-first-cbt-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/tera-reflects-on-lessons-learned-from-first-cbt-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA (UGH VEKAS)
It's been a week since the first TERA North American beta weekend, and European players are getting their first swing at the game as we speak. But before En Masse Entertainment opens the floodgates to NA players once more next weekend, the studio is taking the opportunity to recap the events of the first closed beta test. Overall, the studio seems quite pleased with the results of the test but notes that "the weekend was not without some hiccups." One such hiccup that beta players will certainly be well acquainted with is the chaos that ensued as dozens of players simultaneously tried to kill the quest mob Vekus, which led some players to actually form organized queues to ensure that everyone got a chance at him. But the studio assures us that we need not worry, as "the En Masse team learned a great deal from CBT1 and will put those lessons to good use as we ramp up for CBT2."

The studio also brings us a couple of interesting statistics from the first beta test. For instance, the most popular race-gender-class combination was the Castanic female Warrior (which we're sure has absolutely nothing to do with the Castanics' apparent aversion to modesty). And of course, beta participants will be very familiar with the basilisk BAMs in Oblivion Woods, which apparently accounted for almost two-thirds of all player deaths over the course of the weekend. Gotta watch out for those bodyslams, guys. They'll getcha.

Ultimately, the studio concludes that "this weekend was a big success both in terms of players getting hands-on time with TERA and for showing the team what they need to refine before the game's May 1 release."

To sign up for the game's future beta tests, just head on over to the game's official site, linked below.

[Source: En Masse Entertainment press release]

MassivelyTERA reflects on lessons learned from first CBT weekend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-weekendbeta-weekend-1beta-weekend-oneblueholebluehole-studiocbtcbt-weekendcbt-weekend-1cbt-weekend-oneclosed-beta-testen-masseen-masse-entertainmentoh-god-vekasrecapteratera-onlinethe-exiled-realm-of-arboreaFri, 17 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Going toe-to-toe with TERA's first beta weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/going-toe-to-toe-with-teras-first-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/going-toe-to-toe-with-teras-first-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/going-toe-to-toe-with-teras-first-beta-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BAM indeed.
Over the past months, many fans of En Masse Entertainment's upcoming "real action combat" title TERA have been wondering whether the game will ever see the light of day. Between sparse development details and word of legal troubles, TERA's future seemed to be in constant jeopardy as cries of "vaporware!" grew steadily louder. Well, those voices can finally have a bit of a reprieve because over the course of this past weekend, players were able to jump into the world of Arborea and experience TERA's action combat firsthand.

I was among those players, and after a joy-filled romp through TERA's gorgeous landscapes (thanks in no small part to my fabulous guild -- hi Territ!), I'm ready to conjure up some thoughts that will hopefully somewhat resemble my impressions of the closed beta weekend. So if you want to know whether the game's real action combat hits the mark or it's a swing and a miss, follow me past the cut and let's take a look.

Continue reading Going toe-to-toe with TERA's first beta weekend

MassivelyGoing toe-to-toe with TERA's first beta weekend originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionaction-combatbetabeta-testbeta-weekendbeta-weekend-1beta-weekend-oneblueholebluehole-studiocbtcbt-weekendcbt-weekend-1cbt-weekend-oneclosed-betaclosed-beta-testcombaten-masseen-masse-entertainmentfeaturedhands-onhigh-elfimpressionsteratera-onlinethe-exiled-realm-of-arboreawarriorTue, 14 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA brings more pre-order customers into the beta process]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/tera-trying-to-get-pre-order-customers-into-the-beta-process/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/tera-trying-to-get-pre-order-customers-into-the-beta-process/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/tera-trying-to-get-pre-order-customers-into-the-beta-process/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Test how swordproof that thing is!
TERA has hit a few snags of late, including some woes with the whole system of getting pre-order beta access for appropriately pre-ordered customers. Luckily for some fans of the game, it looks like things are moving forward for players hoping to get into beta testing this weekend. An official announcement on the forums earlier today confirmed that GameStop has received valid beta codes and should be distributing said codes to customers via receipt or via phone.

Any players who preordered from Amazon or Best Buy and still haven't received a code are asked to send in a letter to the customer service staff before 9:00 a.m. PST on February 10th. Players are all warned that the game's download is currently clocking in at 17 GB, which means that you'll need plenty of time to get the client installed on your computer. A lengthy download is preferable to ambiguity as to whether or not you'll even get your beta access, though.

MassivelyTERA brings more pre-order customers into the beta process originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.combest-buybetabeta-accessbeta-testen-masseen-masse-entertainmentgamestoppre-orderteratera-onlineweekend-betaThu, 09 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA monthly chat talks public previews, PvP, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/tera-monthly-chat-talks-public-previews-pvp-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/tera-monthly-chat-talks-public-previews-pvp-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/tera-monthly-chat-talks-public-previews-pvp-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- TERA
TERA's November edition of the monthly Twitter dev chat has been posted on the game's official site, and it brings a few choice morsels involving the current alpha test and the upcoming closed beta. The team notes that the current testing is going quite well, and the first public preview event will be starting in early 2012.

Many players also ask about the game's open world PvP, and the team mentions that a free-for-all-from-level-1 PvP server is not out of the question, though it won't happen at launch. Master glyphs, guild wars, and fashion customization are all on the table as well, so for the full transcript, head on over to the official TERA site.

MassivelyTERA monthly chat talks public previews, PvP, and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholecombaten-masseen-masse-entertainmentguild-warsproduction-chatpublic-previewspvpteratera-onlinetestingthe-exiled-realm-of-arboreatwitterTue, 22 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse releases new TERA Halloween video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/en-masse-releases-new-tera-halloween-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/en-masse-releases-new-tera-halloween-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/en-masse-releases-new-tera-halloween-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA - The Old Witch
Gamers, prepare to be TERA-fied (and not just of bad marketing puns like that one). En Masse has just released a new Halloween video hyping its long-in-the-making TERA MMORPG, and the clip features some of the creepier characters from the fantasy title's eclectic cast.

The video is called The Old Witch, and it's a riff on the famous fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm (and comes complete with a storybook-style presentation). Click past the cut for the chilling tale of an adventurous lass lost in the woods and the nefarious witch who harbors her own dark designs.

Continue reading En Masse releases new TERA Halloween video

MassivelyEn Masse releases new TERA Halloween video originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>en-masseen-masse-entertainmentfairy-talesfantasyhalloween-videolaunch-alreadyteratera-onlinethe-old-witchvideoThu, 27 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New TERA video flies through Fyrmount region]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/new-tera-video-flies-through-fyrmount-region/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/new-tera-video-flies-through-fyrmount-region/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/new-tera-video-flies-through-fyrmount-region/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA - Fyrmount mob
TERA fans have been suffering through something of a news drought lately. Since announcing the game's Spring 2012 release date last summer, En Masse Entertainment has been relatively quiet when it comes to hyping the game and showing off any of its features.

Frogster, TERA's European publisher, has stepped up to the plate this morning by releasing a new fly-through video that takes viewers on a journey around Fyrmount. What's Fyrmount, you say? It's a volcanic region intertwined with the destinies of the Castanic race according to Frogster's press release. Young Castanics are sent to the hellish region "to be pushed to their limits" and are only accepted into adult society if they find something of value and return with it.

Check out the video after the cut and head to the official TERA website for more info on Castanics and the game itself.

[Source: Frogster press release]

Continue reading New TERA video flies through Fyrmount region

MassivelyNew TERA video flies through Fyrmount region originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreacastanicen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyflythrough-videofrogsterfyrmountteratera-onlinetrailervideoTue, 18 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA podcast highlights convention news]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/tera-podcast-highlights-convention-news/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/tera-podcast-highlights-convention-news/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/tera-podcast-highlights-convention-news/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA - castanic female
Episode five of the official TERA podcast is in the can, and it's also available for your listening pleasure on the TERA website. The show finds En Masse community manager Evan "Scapes" Berman talking with producer Chris Hager and COO Patrick Wyatt for approximately 20 minutes.

The subject?

Convention season, of course, and the gang talks about everything from the TERA Gamescom demo to the preparation necessary to convey a certain message to members of the gaming media. The trio also mentions the challenges inherent in answering difficult questions on stage at a major convention, and Wyatt even chats briefly about his experiences working on Blizzard's seminal StarCraft RTS.

MassivelyTERA podcast highlights convention news originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreabehind-the-sceneschris-hageren-masseen-masse-entertainmentevan-bermanfantasygamescommmo-industryofficial-podcastpatrick-wyattpaxpax-primepax-prime-2011scapesteratera-onlineFri, 02 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA implementing chronoscrolls to combat gold farming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/tera-implementing-chronoscrolls-to-combat-gold-farming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/tera-implementing-chronoscrolls-to-combat-gold-farming/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/tera-implementing-chronoscrolls-to-combat-gold-farming/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

TERA - boss fight
TERA isn't releasing in North America for several months yet, but the folks at En Masse are already taking steps to curb the inevitable tide of gold farmers sure to be washing up on Arborea's beaches in 2012.

A new dev blog released over the weekend outlines the introduction of chronoscrolls, and those of you who are familiar with EVE Online's PLEX system will probably see several parallels between the two mechanics. "If you've never purchased gold, and you're wondering why this new chronoscrolls system is a good addition to the game, consider this: Whether chronoscrolls exist or not, other players are buying gold from real-money traders. By creating the opportunity for players who already buy gold to purchase it legitimately, we help eliminate the incentive for real-money traders to target TERA," says producer Patrick Wyatt.

MassivelyTERA implementing chronoscrolls to combat gold farming originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreachronoscrollsdev-blogdev-diaryeconomyen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteveeve-onlinefantasygold-farmersgold-farmingpatrick-wyattplay-for-freeplexreal-money-tradingrmtteratera-onlineMon, 29 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: A peek into TERA's beauty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/one-shots-a-peek-into-teras-beauty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/one-shots-a-peek-into-teras-beauty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/28/one-shots-a-peek-into-teras-beauty/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA landscape
It's all about TERA in this edition of One Shots, with reader Philip describing the feelings he gets from this gorgeous shot:
While questing in the vast world of TERA Online, I was led into this little area by a specific quest line. This area was full of simply gorgeous horses and vibrant colors. The water glimmered, and I had goosebumps from the sheer beauty of this area and its landscape. Hopefully, you will be able to enjoy the elegance the game provides, like I did.
We're looking at the best MMO environments all this week, but next week we'll be revisiting another old favorite of One Shots: bug week. Whether it's unwanted guests in cutscenes, funny graphic glitches, or a prank you played on a buddy, we want to see. Send your screenshots in to oneshots@massively.com and we'll feature them in next week's One Shots!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: A peek into TERA's beauty originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Aug 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluehole-studioen-masse-entertainmentgalleriesgalleryone-shotsphilipscreenshotscreenshotsteratera-onlineSun, 28 Aug 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2011: TERA producers reveal server vs. server endgame content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/pax-2011-tera-producers-reveal-server-vs-server-endgame-conten/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/pax-2011-tera-producers-reveal-server-vs-server-endgame-conten/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/pax-2011-tera-producers-reveal-server-vs-server-endgame-conten/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

TERA - Velika cityscape
This year's PAX Prime doesn't feature an En Masse Entertainment booth for TERA, but the company did host an informational shindig for journalists and fans at its offices in downtown Seattle over the weekend. Producers Chris Hager and Stefan Ramirez ran the show, and the presentation focused heavily on the action MMO aspects as well as the game's depth.

The show started with a repeat of the recent Castanic healer video, and from there Hager and Ramirez set about profiling the game's mechanical aspects (including the combat, glyph, and crystal systems). The presentation was geared towards folks who haven't really kept up with TERA, as there wasn't much discussed that we haven't known about for a while. Aside from the action talking points, we also got bits about story, the details on the political and vanarch systems, and some info on the argons.

En Masse also trotted out the first mention of its plans for server vs. server combat. The system is designed to provide additional endgame content via PvE and PvP. "It's going to have players from other servers coming to your territory, on your server, and invading your space," Hager explained. He went on to mention how guilds will need to ally with one another to repel the invaders, and if the alliance proves strong enough, take the fight back to the invaders' home turf. En Masse was very coy about the details on this new system, and we expect more information will be forthcoming as we move toward TERA's spring 2012 release date.

Finally, we managed some quality hands-on time with the game during the event, so check in with us periodically this weekend and we'll bring you a detailed report.

Massively's on the ground in Seattle during the weekend of August 26-28, bringing you all the best news from PAX Prime 2011. Whether you're dying to know more about SWTOR, Guild Wars 2, City of Heroes, or any MMO in between, you can bet we'll have it covered!

MassivelyPAX 2011: TERA producers reveal server vs. server endgame content originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combatarboreaargonschris-hageren-masseen-masse-entertainmentendgamein-game-eventslorepaxpax-2011pax-primepax-prime-2011server-vs-serverserver-vs-server-warstefan-ramirezstoryteratera-onlineSat, 27 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's exclusive TERA lore: A day in the life of Gernakul the Dracoloth]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-a-day-in-the-life-of-gernakul-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-a-day-in-the-life-of-gernakul-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/26/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-a-day-in-the-life-of-gernakul-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA - dracoloth
Welcome, TERA fans, to another installment of Massively's exclusive A Day in the Life lore series. The recent news of TERA's spring 2012 launch delay may have dampened your spirits (or perhaps bolstered them if you're of the release-it-when-it's-ready mentality), but En Masse is here to tide us over with another interesting story snippet from the world of Arborea.

This time around we're treated to the tale of Volorius, a devan soldier who makes a pact with an unlikely ally named Gernakul. Gernakul is a dracoloth, and as you can tell from the screenshot above, he's not to be messed with. Aside from decimating a camp of heavily armored soldiers and snacking on a overconfident sorcerer, Gernakul is possessed of a treacherous and nasty disposition, as Volorious soon learns. Read about his fate after the cut.

Continue reading Massively's exclusive TERA lore: A day in the life of Gernakul the Dracoloth

MassivelyMassively's exclusive TERA lore: A day in the life of Gernakul the Dracoloth originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-day-in-the-lifearboreablueholebluehole-studiodracolothen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivefantasyfeaturedfran-stewartgernakulgernakul-the-dracolothlorenew-titlesteratera-onlinevoloriusFri, 26 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA devs talk guild housing and more in Twitter chat]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/tera-devs-talk-guild-housing-and-more-in-twitter-chat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/tera-devs-talk-guild-housing-and-more-in-twitter-chat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/tera-devs-talk-guild-housing-and-more-in-twitter-chat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

TERA - concept art
In case you missed it, En Masse is hosting a TERA production chat via Twitter on the third Friday of every month. The transcript of last Friday's session is now live on the official TERA website, and there were a few noteworthy nuggets dropped by producer Brian Knox and community manager Evan Berman during the course of the event.

Among the interesting blurbs on display are the fact that guild housing is back on the dev team's radar, and the feature may yet make it into the game's spring 2012 launch. Also of note are a couple of general numbers relating to the size of the dev team (70 at En Masse and over 200 at Korea's Bluehole Studio, where the game is originating). Finally, there was a bit of a teaser for a big TERA-related announcement at next week's PAX community event, so keep your eyes and ears peeled!

MassivelyTERA devs talk guild housing and more in Twitter chat originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combataction-mmoarboreabluehole-studiodev-chatdev-team-sizeen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyguild-housingpax-community-eventteratera-onlineTue, 23 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse delaying TERA launch to 2012 [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/en-masse-delaying-tera-launch-to-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/en-masse-delaying-tera-launch-to-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/03/en-masse-delaying-tera-launch-to-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

En Masse Entertainment has finally broken its silence about TERA's launch window, and there's both good and bad news for fans of the upcoming fantasy game. The bad news is that there's still no definitive launch date. The good news is that the time window has been narrowed considerably.

In a new press release issued this morning, En Masse said that TERA will release sometime in the spring of 2012. That should put to rest months of speculation as to whether the game will reach North American shores in 2011 (as well as whether it will be competing for launch customers with The Old Republic, which BioWare expects to release prior to the end of the year).

En Masse publishing vice president Chris Lee commented on the launch delay, indicating that the extra time will result in a more polished product. "The game's action combat and depth has generated a lot of interest, and we are committed to making sure every aspect of the game lives up to our standard of quality," he said.

[Update: Producer Chris Hager has penned a post on the official TERA website that offers a bit more info. In a nutshell, the North American client will enter alpha testing "later this year," with beta scheduled for early 2012.]

MassivelyEn Masse delaying TERA launch to 2012 [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combatalphaarboreabetachris-hagerchris-leedelayen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasylaunch-datelaunch-delaynorth-american-launchpress-releaseteratera-onlineWed, 03 Aug 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's exclusive TERA lore: Remember in Vein]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-remember-in-vein/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-remember-in-vein/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-remember-in-vein/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's no secret that several Massively staffers are looking forward to TERA. Just yesterday, in fact, we were lamenting the lack of TERA news and wondering when we might get another glimpse of Arborea. En Masse to the rescue, then, as today we're happy to bring you the latest lore exclusive for the upcoming fantasy MMORPG.

Penned by lead writer David Noonan, this Day in the Life installment is called Remember in Vein and concerns the fearsome vulcans. TERA vulcans are quite a bit different from the vulcans familiar to most sci-fi and fantasy fans, though the former do have pointy (if rather large) ears. Head past the cut to read the lore and get a glimpse of our exclusive screenshots.

Continue reading Massively's exclusive TERA lore: Remember in Vein

MassivelyMassively's exclusive TERA lore: Remember in Vein originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-day-in-the-lifearboreadavid-noonanday-in-the-lifeen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivefantasyfeaturedjuggernautloreremember-in-veinteratera-onlinevulcanvulcan-juggernautvulcansWed, 20 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive TERA lore: Day in the life - Uchamba]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/massively-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-uchamba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/massively-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-uchamba/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/massively-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-uchamba/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA fans, it's time for another treat! A few days ago, we got our first look at the fearsome wendigos of TERA. Today, we delve even further into the culture of these clever creatures with a day in the life of Uchamba, the leader of the wendigo clan that guards the Thysrivvar -- known to the mortal races of TERA as the Azurice Shrine.

Unlike the wendigos of many other MMORPGs, which are often portrayed as yetis or other abominable-snowman-esque creatures, TERA's wendigos are massive, crystalline creatures with a penchant for equally massive, crystalline weapons. Also unlike their traditionally savage and dim-witted counterparts, these wendigos seem to be presented as clever, honorable, and brave creatures fighting not for pleasure, but for their very survival. For the full story of Uchamba and his clan's struggle for survival against their mortal enemies, the giants, click on past the cut.

Gallery: TERA screenshots

Continue reading Massively Exclusive TERA lore: Day in the life - Uchamba

MassivelyMassively Exclusive TERA lore: Day in the life - Uchamba originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bambig-ass-monsterblueholebluehole-studioday-in-the-lifeen-masseen-masse-entertainmentgalleriesgallerylorescreenshotscreenshotsteratera-loretera-onlineuchambawendigowendigosMon, 27 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: TERA shows off two new BAMs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/massively-exclusive-tera-shows-off-two-new-bams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/massively-exclusive-tera-shows-off-two-new-bams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/24/massively-exclusive-tera-shows-off-two-new-bams/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Last month we brought you exclusive news of two new TERA BAMs (that's an En Masse acronym for big-ass monster, if you're wondering). This month we're moving on from the fimbrilisks and vampirs and cozying up to a pair of new cold-hearted killers that inhabit the icy wastes in the far reaches of Arborea.

First up is our friend the wendigo, and what a clever, inventive, and unabashedly large friend he is. Despite being a BAM, the wendigo is known for his nuance, particularly when it comes to his unique vocalization techniques.

Next we have the ice giant, and as his name implies, he's also quite massive. Unlike the wendigo, ice giants are about as lacking in subtlety as it's possible to be, and most examples of the species spend their days plotting the return of their glory days while trampling unwary adventurers who stray too close their domains. Read up on both new BAMs and check out the exclusive screens after the break.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: TERA shows off two new BAMs

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: TERA shows off two new BAMs originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreabambamsbig-ass-monsteren-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivefantasyice-giantscreenshotsteratera-onlinewendigoFri, 24 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA E3 recap video explains political system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/tera-e3-recap-video-explains-political-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/tera-e3-recap-video-explains-political-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/tera-e3-recap-video-explains-political-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

E3 2011 is a distant memory, but En Masse is still getting a bit of mileage out of the event thanks to a newly released TERA video compilation. The trailer shows off portions of the closed-doors media presentation from this month's trade show, and the footage is heavy on action combat and lush sequences featuring the game's gorgeous visuals.

The clip also devotes a good portion of its running time to the recently announced political system, and producers Chris Hager and Stefan Ramirez fire off some pretty tantalizing soundbytes relating to player interaction and the possibility of affecting the game world. "That means getting votes, buying votes, smearing your opponent, taking out your competition, raising taxes, making tons of cash money, controlling your province, putting players in prison, running your own events, managing your own towns, and just doing whatever you want," Ramirez says.

Staying in power to continue doing whatever you want is the trick, of course, and the video spends a good amount of time detailing ways to maintain control over your province. While it all sounds pretty spectacular, it also raises plenty of questions (like, how is all of that going to matter in an MMO that lacks serious consequences in terms of a death penalty or gear/stat loss?). Whatever the answers, we can't wait to learn more. Check out the full video after the cut.

Continue reading TERA E3 recap video explains political system

MassivelyTERA E3 recap video explains political system originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiochris-hagerconsequencese3e3-2011e3-2011-recape3-recapen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyplayer-jailpolicy-pointspolitical-systempoliticsstefan-ramirezteratera-onlinetrailervanarchvanarch-missionsvideoThu, 23 Jun 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA's PvP features light death penalty]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/teras-pvp-features-light-death-penalty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/teras-pvp-features-light-death-penalty/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/teras-pvp-features-light-death-penalty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The TERA news beat has fairly quiet recently. Aside from the Korean server merges, there hasn't been a whole lot new to report regarding the exiled realm of Arborea. Fansite TERAPvP to the rescue, then, courtesy of an interview with En Masse community manager Evan "Scapes" Berman.

The interview is brief, and if you've been the following the game closely, you've probably heard most of this before. For casual fans, or those just getting wind of all things TERA, there are a few interesting PvP nuggets that might be worth your time.

First up is the question of character transfers between PvE and PvP servers. TERAPvP points out the balance issues inherent in allowing players to level (and gear up) their characters on a PvE server before moving them to a PvP shard. Berman doesn't give a definitive answer as to whether this will be allowed or not, saying that it's something En Masse will "have to evaluate for TERA." Friendly fire is also a no-go in TERA's PvP combat, and there is no experience loss or item degradation. As Scapes says, "items in TERA do not have a durability mechanic."

MassivelyTERA's PvP features light death penalty originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiodeath-penaltydurabilityen-masseen-masse-entertainmentevan-bermanexperience-lossfriendly-fireinterviewpvpscapesteratera-onlineMon, 06 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: TERA Korean servers merging [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/rumor-tera-korean-servers-merging/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/rumor-tera-korean-servers-merging/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/rumor-tera-korean-servers-merging/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bluehole Studio's TERA action MMORPG is gearing up for its second round of Korean server merges since launch according to a blurb at MMO Culture. The fantasy title, which is currently being prepared for a North American release by En Masse Entertainment, is scheduled to trim its list of 35 shards to 15 this week.

Despite more upbeat news of fresh content in the offing, the merges come amid reports of lower-than-expected financial performance according to publisher NHN Korea. TERA launched in Korea last February and is gearing up for a Japanese beta on July 1st. No North American or European beta dates have been announced.

[Update]: TERA's main Korean website does provide both official confirmation of server merges as well as time projections.

MassivelyRumor: TERA Korean servers merging [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoblueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfrogsterfrogster-interactivekorean-server-mergesmmo-culturenhn-korearumorrumorsserver-mergesteratera-koreatera-onlineWed, 01 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Frogster hints at expansive new TERA update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/frogster-hints-at-expansive-new-tera-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/frogster-hints-at-expansive-new-tera-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/frogster-hints-at-expansive-new-tera-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA's Korean client is getting a big update, and the game's European publisher has issued a press release that details quite a few changes coming to the action fantasy MMORPG. Frogster's press release doesn't mention a date, nor does it mention why the EU publisher is reporting on the Korean client of a title that has yet to launch in Europe (nor why En Masse, the North American publisher, is silent).

In terms of the update itself, it boasts a level cap increase from 50 to 58, 10 new zones, a large new city, and four new dungeons. Guildmasters may declare war on opposing guilds and ignite no-holds barred conflicts that last for seven days, and there's also an interesting new skill customization feature that allows players to choose which abilities to connect via combos. You can learn more about TERA at the game's official website.

MassivelyFrogster hints at expansive new TERA update originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfrogsternew-dungeonsnew-zonespatchpress-releaseskill-combosskill-customizationteratera-onlineupdateWed, 01 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA day in the life blog from QA Senior Tester Patrick Sun]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/tera-day-in-the-life-blog-from-qa-senior-tester-patrick-sun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/tera-day-in-the-life-blog-from-qa-senior-tester-patrick-sun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/tera-day-in-the-life-blog-from-qa-senior-tester-patrick-sun/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Everyone seems to think that working in quality assurance at a game company is a walk in the park, playing video games all day and loving every second of it. Well, En Masse's Patrick Sun is here to put you in your plac -- What's that? "Best. Job. Ever."? Oh. Well. Nevermind then.

But as he's quick to point out in the most recent post on TERA's blog, QA testers' jobs don't entail just playing TERA while looking for bugs and other issues of that ilk, but also ensuring that the game's localization is going smoothly. He offers one example about the Korean idiom, "A mute person who's eaten honey," which refers to someone who keeps silent about a secret in spite of others' suffering. Of course! I mean, who couldn't figure that one out? For more information on what the QA workers over on TERA keep busy with, check out the official post.

MassivelyTERA day in the life blog from QA Senior Tester Patrick Sun originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 May 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogday-in-the-lifeen-masseen-masse-entertainmentpatrick-sunQAteratera-onlineTue, 24 May 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA blog post redefines the holy trinity]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/tera-blog-post-redefines-the-holy-trinity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/tera-blog-post-redefines-the-holy-trinity/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/17/tera-blog-post-redefines-the-holy-trinity/#commentsFiled under: , ,

En Masse Entertainment wants you to take everything you think you know about class roles and shove it -- well, you get the idea. En Masse's Scott James Magner waxes nostalgic on Dungeons and Dragons, EverQuest, and the establishment of the holy trinity. Scared of change? Don't worry too much. Magner says, "TERA isn't going to re-invent the wheel as far as class roles are concerned. Instead, we're redefining them as we move into the next generation of online games. TERA's eight classes fall easily into four in-demand roles, but how they do it is another story entirely."

The Lancer and Warrior fill the tank role, but Magner is careful to point out that there is much more to to defending your allies than simply spamming your high-threat abilities; it's also highly dependent on blocking and dodging in a timely manner. Healers won't be playing whack-a-mole anymore, and Magner says that TERA's healers are "just as often in the thick of combat as the outskirts." Lastly, Magner thinks that the trinity should further divide into a "'foundation' of four," with DPS roles divided based on whether they are ranged or melee. The melee attackers deliver high damage with each strike, but the ranged attackers have an unbeatable attack speed. For the full details, head on over to TERA's site and check out the full article.

MassivelyTERA blog post redefines the holy trinity originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 May 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypesclass-rolesclassesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentholy-trinityscott-james-magnerteratera-onlineTue, 17 May 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive TERA lore: Day in the Life - Ebonathis]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/massively-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-ebonathis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/massively-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-ebonathis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/massively-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-ebonathis/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Just a couple of days ago, we were treated to a new video of TERA's Pirate Grotto dungeon, along with a bevy of crafting information and confirmation of the game's presence at E3. Today, we have a new treat for all of you anticipating TERA's Western release: a bit of lore outlining a day in the life of the leader of the fimbrilisks -- and yet another BAM -- Ebonathis.

"What the blazes is a fimbrilisk," you ask? We'd love to tell you, but they seem to be rather enigmatic creatures for the time being. What we do know is that they are large (read: holysweethellthatthingisbig), scaly creatures vaguely resembling balrogs with an affinity -- and appetite -- for arcane energy. Today's piece of lore puts you into the shoes... hooves... scaly-talon-foot-appendage-things of the leader of this formidable race for a rousing good time of devouring arcane energy like it's candy. So jump over the cut for the full story, and don't forget to check out the new additions to the TERA gallery below.

Gallery: TERA screenshots

Continue reading Massively Exclusive TERA lore: Day in the Life - Ebonathis

MassivelyMassively Exclusive TERA lore: Day in the Life - Ebonathis originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-day-in-the-lifebambig-ass-monstercreatureday-in-the-lifeebonathisen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivefantasyfimbriliskgallerymobmonsterteratera-onlineFri, 13 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse confirms TERA for E3, hints at crafting systems [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/en-masse-confirms-tera-for-e3-hints-at-crafting-systems/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/en-masse-confirms-tera-for-e3-hints-at-crafting-systems/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/en-masse-confirms-tera-for-e3-hints-at-crafting-systems/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

En Masse has officially confirmed TERA's presence at this year's E3, and the company has also just released a gaggle of screenshots and a new dungeon-crawl video designed to tease fans in the lead up to various convention reveals scheduled for June 7th through June 9th.

TERA's crafting game gets a brief mention in today's press release as well, with En Masse trumpeting the fact that the tradeskill system features "more than a thousand items to create, use, and sell." Crafting is also presented as "more than clicking a button," with the collection of blueprints and mythic elements -- as well as the use of forges -- highlighted in today's news blast.

En Masse also hints at TERA's equipment customization, enchanting, and glyph systems. Read all about it via the full press release after the cut. Don't forget to check out the new screens in the gallery below while you're at it.

[Updated with a video of the Pirate Grotto dungeon, after the break!]

Gallery: TERA screenshots

Continue reading En Masse confirms TERA for E3, hints at crafting systems [Updated]

MassivelyEn Masse confirms TERA for E3, hints at crafting systems [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studiocraftinge3e3-2011en-masseen-masse-entertainmentenchantingfantasygalleryglyphspirate-grottoscreenshotsteratera-onlinetrailervideoTue, 10 May 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA community play diary visits Velika]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/tera-community-play-diary-visits-velika/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/tera-community-play-diary-visits-velika/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/10/tera-community-play-diary-visits-velika/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's time for another entry in En Masse Entertainment's community play diary series, and this week finds Jason "BrotherMagneto" Mical and Evan "Scapes" Berman exploring the human city of Velika and its outlying provinces.

Velika is one of the initial stopovers for new characters after leaving the Isle of Dawn, and the city serves as a quest hub, a place to learn about TERA's crafting system, and a vast fantasy-scape rife with exploration opportunities. The city is so vast, in fact, that Scapes points out the city teleporter, "a rotating contraption made of gears and magic that will port you to distant corners fo the town for a small fee."

The diary goes on to mention the crafting introduction quests, during which players may choose from the weaponsmithing, armorsmithing, tailoring, leatherworking, or alchemy disciplines. Scapes and BrotherMagneto also stumble across Velika's dueling arena before collecting their quests and setting out for Lumbertown. Read all about it at the official TERA website.

MassivelyTERA community play diary visits Velika originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 May 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alchemyamanarboreaarmorsmithingbrothermagnetocommunity-play-diarycraftingen-masseen-masse-entertainmentevan-bermanfantasyjason-micalleatherworkinglumbertownplay-diaryscapestailoringteratera-onlinevelikaweaponsmithingTue, 10 May 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA Visions trailer sighted in the wild]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/tera-visions-trailer-sighted-in-the-wild/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/tera-visions-trailer-sighted-in-the-wild/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/tera-visions-trailer-sighted-in-the-wild/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Kotaku's got the scoop on the latest TERA trailer, and the new four-minute video treats fans and curious bystanders to a lot of spiffy Arborean fly-through shots as well as some tough talk from En Masse Entertainment developers.

The dev dialogue snippets basically collate all of the talking points that En Masse has been hinting at in various interviews over the past year: There's the action combat, the size of the world and the way it caters to explorer-types, and the focus on the action instead of the UI. There's also a quick blurb about story from lead writer David Noonan, specifically the fact that TERA's story (and the world itself) is the dream of two ancient gods. En Masse VP Chris Lee even drops a hint about guild housing, which mitigates the fact that we've seen a lot of the footage in this video before.

There is some new stuff, though, so make sure to keep watching past the titles at the three-minute mark for additional footage. Click past the cut to check it out.

Continue reading TERA Visions trailer sighted in the wild

MassivelyTERA Visions trailer sighted in the wild originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-combatarboreachris-leecombatdavid-noonandevsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfly-through-videoguild-housingstoryteratera-housingtera-onlinetrailersvideovisionsvisions-trailerThu, 21 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: High above me]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/one-shots-high-above-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/one-shots-high-above-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/21/one-shots-high-above-me/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

First impressions are important in an MMO, and if you're a graphics fan, the look of the world can make a big impression right away. This week in One Shots we're all about your first impressions of MMOs: the starting zones. Today, Philip takes to the skies in this image from the starting area of TERA:
After taking a quick glance back at the humble camp zone located within the ruins below an unusual tree resembling a Cherry Blossom, I couldn't but help appreciate the last of the beautiful scenery that the Island of Dawn has to offer. I talked to the cat-like fellow to hitch a ride on a Pegasus. The cat summoned the mythical beast, I jumped on, and it took off heading toward the city of Veilka.

As I rode through the sky, I had already thought the Island of Dawn was beautiful. But the panoramic scene -- hanging waterfalls from the sky, mystical cherry blossom trees, thick yet lush forests, and the island's natural inhabitants -- simply made my jaw drop. The scene was indescribably amazing, and this picture does absolutely no justice to the Island of Dawn at all.
We're enjoying starting zone week, but we're also looking forward to next week. We'll be focusing on the sci-fi genre, so it's time to show off your favorite sci-fi game! Send your best screenshot to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post it out here for everyone to enjoy and give you the thanks!

Gallery: One Shots: 2011

MassivelyOne Shots: High above me originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>en-massegalleriesgalleryone-shotsphilipteratera-onlineThu, 21 Apr 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA releases Community Play Event numbers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/tera-releases-community-play-event-numbers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/tera-releases-community-play-event-numbers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/18/tera-releases-community-play-event-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you're a TERA fan but not lucky enough to score an invite to En Masse Entertainment's recent Community Play Event (CPE), you can take heart in the fact that the company has released some information pertaining to all the players who did attend. We know, there's the potential for some salt in the wound here, but En Masse's Jon Tuite nonetheless has some interesting factoids relating to character races, classes, leveling trends, and many other data points.

It seems that Castanics were the most popular race during the recent CPE, and humanoid races in general accounted for a whopping 68% of all characters. Tuite also points out that the Baraka race was the least popular (7% of the population) and postulates that the lack of a female version could be the culprit.

In terms of class and party dynamics, the CPE data aren't far removed from your average fantasy MMO (i.e., there were a plethora of DPS types, fewer tanks, and even fewer healers). These stats are the tip of the proverbial iceberg, and you can indulge in more number-crunching at the official TERA website.

MassivelyTERA releases Community Play Event numbers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archetypesclassescommunity-play-eventcpedemographicsdpsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyhealersjon-tuitemathnom-nom-nomnumbersracestanksteratera-onlineMon, 18 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA play diary visits the Isle of Dawn and the Tainted Gorge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/tera-play-diary-visits-the-isle-of-dawn-and-the-tainted-gorge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/tera-play-diary-visits-the-isle-of-dawn-and-the-tainted-gorge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/13/tera-play-diary-visits-the-isle-of-dawn-and-the-tainted-gorge/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA's Community Play Event may be over, but the Community Play Diary is still rolling right along. For those of you who haven't checked it out yet: The diary is basically a running commentary on the fantasy MMO's newbie experience (at least until narrators Jason "BrotherMagneto" Mical and Evan "Scapes" Berman move on to some higher-level play fields).

The En Masse community management dynamic duo is back with the latest diary installment, which finds the pair finishing up its tour of the Isle of Dawn and moving on toward the Tainted Gorge outpost. Along the way, we're treated to random nuggets of advice and commentary relating to gathering and ranged aiming as well as a few mentions of noteworthy quests in the area. There are also some accompanying screenshots that are worth a look, and you can view the piece at the official TERA website.

MassivelyTERA play diary visits the Isle of Dawn and the Tainted Gorge originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brother-magnetocommunity-play-diarydev-blogdev-diaryen-masseen-masse-entertainmentevan-bermanfantasyisle-of-dawnjason-micalplay-diaryscapestainted-gorgeteratera-onlineWed, 13 Apr 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Exclusive TERA lore: It's Good to be the (Slave) King]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-its-good-to-be-the-slave-kin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-its-good-to-be-the-slave-kin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-its-good-to-be-the-slave-kin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Yesterday's exclusive TERA screenshots shone the spotlight on the Red Lash pirates (both their swashbuckling foot soldiers and their fearsome Gula commanders). Today, Massively brings you the latest Day in the Life TERA lore snippet, and with it a deeper look into the world of one Bardragul.

Bardragul, in addition to being grossly overweight and in need of a toothbrush, is also fond of trading slaves and playing with his food (which is usually sentient, alive, and aware of the fact that it's about to be a Gula's next meal).

Head past the cut for more on this Red Lash brigand and the grotesque family of TERA AI monsters to which he belongs.

Continue reading Massively's Exclusive TERA lore: It's Good to be the (Slave) King

MassivelyMassively's Exclusive TERA lore: It's Good to be the (Slave) King originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-day-in-the-lifearboreabambamsbardragulbig-ass-monstersblueholebluehole-studioday-in-the-lifeen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivefantasyfeaturedgulagulaslorered-lashred-lash-piratesrk-macphersonteratera-onlineTue, 12 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Exclusive TERA screenshots: Pirates and BAMs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/massivelys-exclusive-tera-screenshots-pirates-and-bams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/massivelys-exclusive-tera-screenshots-pirates-and-bams/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/massivelys-exclusive-tera-screenshots-pirates-and-bams/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Massively's got a pair of new TERA exclusives coming your way this week, the first of which deals with both BAMs (En Masse Entertainment parlance for big-ass monsters) and pirates. With all due respect to the ninja fans in the audience, pirates reign supreme, particularly the Arborean pirates on display in our new screenshots. These cultured gents are representatives of the Red Lash and are composed mainly of Castanic rogues that do the bidding of their Gula overseers.

That's right, the BAMs are running the show, as the cutthroat and corpulent Gulas currently direct the buccaneers that make up the rank and file of the Red Lash.

Head past the cut for some pirate and BAM-flavored lore, and don't forget to check out the four exclusive new screens in our gallery below.

Gallery: TERA screenshots

Continue reading Massively's Exclusive TERA screenshots: Pirates and BAMs

MassivelyMassively's Exclusive TERA screenshots: Pirates and BAMs originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bamsbig-ass-monstersblueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivefantasyfeaturedgallerygulagulasloremonsterspiratesred-lashscreenshotsteratera-onlineMon, 11 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA shows off Centaur lore and tactics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/tera-shows-off-centaur-lore-and-tactics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/tera-shows-off-centaur-lore-and-tactics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/tera-shows-off-centaur-lore-and-tactics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The official TERA website has updated with a look at one of the mobs players will likely encounter in their journeys around Arborea. Centaurs are found primarily in the Fey Forest region and look to challenge adventurers with spear attacks, hoof attacks, and their ability to sidestep player combos.

The new entry also reveals a bit of centaur lore, noting that the legendary creatures are "presently allied with the fey creatures of northwestern Arcadia province in an uprising against woodcutters, whose drastic logging practices are in danger of denuding the forest in order to fulfill lumber orders from Velika."

Tactically, centaurs are prone to rapidly closing the distance to a target as well as coming to the aid of nearby faeries and other centaurs. Check out all the details, as well as a couple of new screens, at the TERA website.

MassivelyTERA shows off Centaur lore and tactics originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiarboreaarcadiablueholebluehole-studiocentaurcentaurscreaturesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfey-forestgameplayloremeleemobsteratera-onlinewoodcuttersThu, 07 Apr 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA box art revealed, game one step closer to release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/tera-box-art-revealed-game-one-step-closer-to-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/tera-box-art-revealed-game-one-step-closer-to-release/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/tera-box-art-revealed-game-one-step-closer-to-release/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Upcoming fantasy MMO TERA has been in closed beta for some time and is fast approaching release. Created by Korea-based developer Blue Hole Studio, the game is due to be published in North America and Europe by En Masse Entertainment and Frogster respectively. With the game's first big community testing event officially starting tomorrow, fans of the game will finally get to try it out.

TERA took another step toward realisation today as En Masse has given fans a first glimpse of the official box art. The colour schemes and visual styles in the box art are designed to mirror the styles you'll find in the game once it's released. In a refreshing change, the female character featured in the image is a lot more conservatively dressed than is usually expected from box art or from TERA. Head over to the official TERA website for a sneak peek at the new box art.

MassivelyTERA box art revealed, game one step closer to release originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artbetablueholebluehole-studiobox-arten-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfrogsterteratera-onlinetestingFri, 01 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA European community test kicks off, political system detailed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/tera-european-community-test-kicks-off-political-system-detaile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/tera-european-community-test-kicks-off-political-system-detaile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/tera-european-community-test-kicks-off-political-system-detaile/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Blue Hole Studio's TERA has officially kicked off its European testing phase, according to this morning's press release from Frogster. The German gaming company is publishing TERA in Europe, and has sent out 1,500 invites to "the most dedicated and hardcore fans from the TERA community." The special testing event will run for four days, and Frogster says similar events are scheduled for the "very near future."

Frogster also drops a few hints regarding the game's political system, noting that it's intended to be endgame content and that elected rulers will access exclusive mounts, impose taxes, and manipulate NPC villagers. The system involves something called policy points which are acquired via questing, and Vanarchs (the term for players that ascend to the position of regional ruler) must determine how and where to spend them.

MassivelyTERA European community test kicks off, political system detailed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-invitesblueholebluehole-studiocommunity-play-testfantasyfrogsterplayer-politicspolicy-pointspolitical-systempoliticspress-releaseregional-rulersteratera-onlinetestingvanarchvanarchsThu, 31 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA's David Noonan on building smart quests]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/teras-david-noonan-on-building-smart-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/teras-david-noonan-on-building-smart-quests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/teras-david-noonan-on-building-smart-quests/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Quests are such an integral part of current-gen MMORPG gameplay that players sometimes take them for granted. Collecting this or killing that is so ingrained in the gamer psyche that it's easy to overlook the work that goes into making a good quest (or the potential impact that unique quests have on the play experience).

TERA lead writer David Noonan has been thinking a lot about quests, and he recently shared a bit of insight with GameZone regarding how the team of writers at En Masse Entertainment is building better quests. Much of the team's effort goes toward ensuring the quality (and relevancy) of a given quest regardless of when a player chooses to accept it. Quests that capture a player's interest before (or after) a villain or boss fight are the ultimate goal.

"That's what we call a smart quest: a quest that's designed with an awareness of its emotional, storytelling, and world-building surroundings... When you see a smart quest... it's because someone thought through all the narrative, emotional, and gameplay implications beforehand," Noonan explains.

MassivelyTERA's David Noonan on building smart quests originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreadavid-noonanen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyinterviewspvequest-designquestingquestssmart-queststeratera-onlineMon, 21 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA's Chris Lee on making a Korean MMO into an American hit]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/teras-chris-lee-on-making-a-korean-mmo-into-an-american-hit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/teras-chris-lee-on-making-a-korean-mmo-into-an-american-hit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/teras-chris-lee-on-making-a-korean-mmo-into-an-american-hit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The recent announcement regarding a mind-meld between En Masse Entertainment and Atari for the purposes of bringing Bluehole Studio's TERA to North America has generated a fair bit of industry buzz. Not only does it indicate an impending release date (though En Masse remains coy about anything other than a "2011" date), but it also signifies to fans of AAA Asian-themed MMOs that they'll soon have an alternative to Aion and Lineage II.

Gamasutra recently chatted up En Masse publishing vice president Chris Lee about the challenges inherent in bringing TERA to the West, and surprisingly, the "westernization" catch-phrase -- and associated deflections -- were nowhere to be found. Lee instead focused on how En Masse has a long road ahead when it comes to turning a Korean MMO into an American hit (regardless of the title's inherent quality). "One of the biggest misconceptions in the business is that a good game will sell itself," Lee says.

Lee also spoke to TERA's decision to bypass the free-to-play craze as well as the title's unique combat mechanic, which is "a large departure from traditional MMOs, regardless of region."

MassivelyTERA's Chris Lee on making a Korean MMO into an American hit originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoatariBlueHolebluehole-studiobusiness-modelschris-leecrowded-marketen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasygamasutrainterviewinterviewskorean-mmolocalizationmmo-industryteratera-ontera-onlineFri, 18 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's exclusive TERA lore: Day in the Life - Kumas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-kumas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-kumas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/massivelys-exclusive-tera-lore-day-in-the-life-kumas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Yesterday we got a glimpse of two new BAMs courtesy of En Masse Entertainment. Intrepid explorers ranging far and wide across the vast reaches of Arborea will no doubt run across a Naga or a Kumas in their travels, and today En Masse brings us a new Day in the Life lore snippet focused on the latter.

Penned by Stacey Jannsen, Day in the Life -- Kumas takes you inside the one-track mind of the titular creature as he attempts to make a meal out of a wayward Popori and finds himself face to face with another (equally hungry) BAM with a similar goal. Head past the cut for more, and don't forget the three new screenshots in our TERA gallery.

Gallery: TERA screenshots

Continue reading Massively's exclusive TERA lore: Day in the Life - Kumas

MassivelyMassively's exclusive TERA lore: Day in the Life - Kumas originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-day-in-the-lifeaiarboreabamBAMsbig-ass-monstercreaturesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentexclusivefantasyfeaturedgallerykumasloremobsnpcsscreenshotsteratera-onlineThu, 17 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[En Masse signs with Atari for TERA North American retail distribution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/en-masse-signs-with-atari-for-tera-north-american-retail-distrib/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/en-masse-signs-with-atari-for-tera-north-american-retail-distrib/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/en-masse-signs-with-atari-for-tera-north-american-retail-distrib/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

What do En Masse Entertainment and Atari have in common? As of this morning, both entities are officially working to bring TERA to North American shores in 2011. According to a new press release, Atari has signed on as the exclusive retail distributor for the action fantasy MMO which released in Korea earlier this year.

"When we first played TERA, we could see that it had all the elements of an MMO hit," said Lee Jacobson, SVP of Licensing and Digital Publishing at Atari. "Our expertise in retail marketing and bringing MMOs to market combined with TERA's obvious quality makes this a great fit for both companies."

TERA was developed by Bluehole studio, with En Masse serving as both co-producer and North American publisher. The game allows players to join the Valkyon federation and fight to save it from mythical monsters and warring gods while engaging in dynamic combat that places a high premium on player skill.

MassivelyEn Masse signs with Atari for TERA North American retail distribution originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariblueholebluehole-studioen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasymmo-industrynorth-american-releasepublishingretail-distributionretail-editionteratera-onlineThu, 17 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: En Masse shows off new TERA monster lore and screens]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/massively-exclusive-en-masse-shows-off-new-tera-monster-lore-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/massively-exclusive-en-masse-shows-off-new-tera-monster-lore-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/massively-exclusive-en-masse-shows-off-new-tera-monster-lore-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TERA's media blitz has been focused on BAMs and smart AI of late, so it's only natural that Massively's latest exclusive from the world of Arborea has a certain monster-centric bent. En Masse Entertainment has given us the details on two of the mobs you're likely to encounter during your travels, as well as a couple of new screenshots that show off just how big these BAMs really are.

First up is the kumas, and as you can see in the header image above, he's more than happy to be crossing paths with an adventurer (i.e., a potential meal). "Kumases exist to consume, it is their only function -- their place in the world, as it were. Forever striving to sate the Hunger, their bodies slow down into near-hibernation when there is nothing nearby to eat," En Masse tells us. Kumas territory is typically bare of plant and animal life, and the beast's keen sense of smell alerts it to the presence of nearby prey and brings its body back to a waking state.

Nagas are a bit more proactive and are prone to hunting in areas occupied by kumas. As a result, the naga has learned to control its scent secretions, the better to avoid conflicts with its deadly rival. "Nagas are a violent bunch," according to En Masse. "Their primary concern is hunting for the sake of fighting. Food is occasionally useful too." Jump the cut for the full descriptions.

Gallery: TERA screenshots

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: En Masse shows off new TERA monster lore and screens

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: En Masse shows off new TERA monster lore and screens originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arboreabamsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyfeaturedgallerykumasmonstersnagascreenshotsteratera-onlineWed, 16 Mar 2011 14:30:00 EST