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[LotRO paddles down The Great River in a canoe fashioned from patch notes and dev diaries]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/lotro-paddles-down-the-great-river-in-a-canoe-fashioned-from-pat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/lotro-paddles-down-the-great-river-in-a-canoe-fashioned-from-pat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/lotro-paddles-down-the-great-river-in-a-canoe-fashioned-from-pat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

LotRO
"The Great River not only offers something fresh-feeling and new, but also some fairly epic eye candy," the latest Lord of the Rings Online developer diary begins. The diary is referring to the latest zone being created for the game, which is slated to come with Update 6. We've already gotten a glimpse of the region, but now it's time for the team to go in-depth with its concept and creation.

One of the highlights of the new region is that The Great River will be home to the very first Rohirrim settlement: Stangard. Because of this, Standgard will feature unique visuals and architecture not found elsewhere in the game. In addition to providing new vistas to explore, The Great River will help players gear up further through quest rewards, a new reputation faction, and an elite area. For those interested in getting an idea of how Turbine puts together a zone like this, there's a terrific addendum that walks through the process.

Preliminary patch notes are also up for Update 6, which is now on the test server. There's a lot to digest here, although it's interesting to note that Virtues will be increased to 14 (from 12) due to player demand.

It's good to know that plenty of bugs will be fixed come this patch, including this one: "The sky objects will no longer vanish when you travel to certain instances and then return. Told ya; The sky is not falling. It was just...missing."

MassivelyLotRO paddles down The Great River in a canoe fashioned from patch notes and dev diaries originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anduindev-diarydeveloper-diaryf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotropatchpatch-notesreputationRohirrimstangardtest-serverthe-great-riverturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-6virtuesThu, 01 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online 'ambitiously' re-itemizing the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/champions-online-ambitiously-re-itemizing-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/champions-online-ambitiously-re-itemizing-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/champions-online-ambitiously-re-itemizing-the-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Champions Online
As the groundhog pops up to see his shadow, so too do the devs of Champions Online pop up with their monthly UNTIL Field Report, dishing out the plans and proposed future updates for the game. This month's report is rather lengthy and kicks off with a promise about upcoming "ambitious" re-itemization of all items and rewards in Champions.

Currently in testing and on deck for the near future is a '90s Iron Age costume set, alerts, zone balancing, and a look at why them women folk walk so dang funny (apparently arms and legs are moving out of sync on female characters). Players also have a new travel power -- Distortion Acrobatics -- and specialization trees to look forward to.

There's also some good information in the report as to why some features and concerns have yet to move from low to high priority, such as the "lukewarm" feedback of team duels and the difficulties of balancing XP gifting.

As the next update for Champions Online nears, Cryptic promises a more in-depth series of dev diaries detailing the changes.

MassivelyChampions Online 'ambitiously' re-itemizing the game originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-studiosdev-diaryf2pfree-to-playiron-ageitemizationpatchpreviewre-itemizationtest-servertestinguntil-field-reportupcoming-patchupdateFri, 03 Feb 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT asks its community to test raids]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/rift-opens-up-to-the-community-for-raid-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/rift-opens-up-to-the-community-for-raid-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/rift-opens-up-to-the-community-for-raid-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You will probably not be fighting this guy. Things are looking up already!
Do you like RIFT? Do you like raiding? Do you like to test raids in RIFT? Well, then, your ship may very well have come in. The team at Trion Worlds is looking to get some solid raid testing going, giving players a chance to see the next tier of raiding before it goes live. So the call is going out to guilds that have demolished the current endgame, and the best of the best will be pitted against the newest challenges on the horizon.

To be eligible, guilds must have at least 20 members able to participate in two hours of raiding two nights per week; they must also currently be at 11/11 in Hammerknell. Candidates are also expected to have mature members capable of responsible feedback, since they are going to be testing new and possibly buggy combat. If you think your guild qualifies, have your guild leader (which may be you) respond to the call. And be prepared to blow through everything in minutes once it goes live -- that's always the risk.

MassivelyRIFT asks its community to test raids originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communitycommunity-eventsendgameendgame-testingguildguildsraid-testingraidingraidsriftrift-planes-of-telaratest-servertestingtriontrion-worldsTue, 10 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic launches Android authenticator and upcoming test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-wars-the-old-republic-launches-android-authenticator-and-u/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-wars-the-old-republic-launches-android-authenticator-and-u/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-wars-the-old-republic-launches-android-authenticator-and-u/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Pictured: not security.
If analyst predictions hold true, Star Wars: The Old Republic is going to be big. And that means that it's going to be heir to the natural problem of account hackings, the sort of thing that goes hand in hand with every major MMO. Luckily, the game has launched with security authenticators already available, with a physical version and an Apple app available right out of the gate. The mobile authenticator for Android devices is also now available, meaning that you have a multitude of ways to ensure that the only threats to your characters are those of the blaster-wielding variety.

Once you've gotten through the authenticator stage, however, perhaps you'd like to see what's coming next for the game? Ask a Jedi reports that it looks like BioWare is in the process of setting up a public test server, giving every subscriber a chance to enjoy the upcoming patches and updates before they go live. While players will not be able to copy characters from the live servers to the test environment at this time, the team behind Star Wars: The Old Republic seems to be polishing up the game on a daily basis even though it's just launched, so that likely won't remain the case for long.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic launches Android authenticator and upcoming test server originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Star Trek Online - Scotty with tribbles
Star Trek Online's latest dev blog is live, and executive producer Stephen D'Angelo spends a bit of time talking about tribbles. Rest easy, they're not taking over the Cryptic offices, and D'Angelo spends this week's Path to F2P installment outlining the benefits of participating on the game's Tribble test server.

The dev team has increased the character transfer limit, and players may now copy up to three of their avatars from the main server. D'Angelo outlines the various rewards available for players willing to roll up their sleeves and get down and dirty with the bug squashing. The goodies range from tribble pets (naturally) to XP boosts and Dilithium chunks. Exclusive titles, starship slots, and duty officers are also available, so head over to the test shard and do your part!

MassivelyStar Trek Online dev blog talks test server rewards originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bug-squashingbugscharacter-copycrypticcryptic-studiosdev-blogdev-diaryf2pfree-to-playperfect-world-entertainmentpwerewardsscif-istar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertestingtribbletribblesFri, 04 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/captains-log-every-day-i-m-tribbleing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65322.9...

Hello, computer (and players)! For the past several weeks, Star Trek Online players have been checking out the latest F2P beta builds on the Tribble test server. While there have been a few patches on other days, more for stability fixes and minor tweaking, Thursdays seem to be the designated day for us to receive the largest pushes of new content. The latest round of updates has brought further economy changes, new events and ships, and even more heated debates. Since we seem to be a ways out from the seeing the updates ported to the Holodeck live server, there is still plenty of time to check it all out and provide your feedback to the devs.

I would like to dedicate this entry to those who are helping test the changes. This week's Captain's Log serves as a checklist of sorts on what new content you can test and where you can provide feedback about it. As you read through, I suggest that you read a particular section, jump into game to check out the particular change, formulate an opinion, and head to the linked forum where you can leave your feedback. No matter what you think, it's important to let the devs know -- they will make changes based upon a collective opinion.

Ensign, warp 10! It's time to create our own party rock anthem...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Every day I'm tribbleing originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilityc-storeconsolecraftingcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaily-eventdevdev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diarydevsdilithiumdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemevent-calendarf2pfeature-testingfeaturedfeedbackforumforumsfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgeargozerhereticklingon-academylivestreamloglore-missionspatchespath-to-f2pperfect-world-entertainmentpowerpwesci-fishipsspecial-task-forcespecial-task-force-missionsspecial-testingstst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarfleet-academystephen-dangelostfstf-updatesstostormshadetest-servertrek-onlineuiui-tweakupdatesThu, 27 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Several reasons edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/ask-massively-several-reasons-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/ask-massively-several-reasons-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/ask-massively-several-reasons-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Congratulations! You read the alt text. If you want a joke that no one else will get without reading the alt text as well, use the word 'gorgonzola' in your comment.
Ladies and gentlemen, I do not subscribe to the notion that there is a singular explanation for everything. Consider the above image. Why was it selected as a header? There are several reasons! For starters, it was the first result in a search on Wikimedia Commons for "several." And... well, actually, I guess that's pretty much it. But I'm going to go ahead and add Dadaist discontent to the list of reasons because that usually sums this up fairly well.

Anyway, I can promise this week's answers in Ask Massively involve a larger number of reasons than does our header image. This week, the questions at hand are the reasons why players might choose to play on the test server and the reasons we're still knee-deep in elves, dwarves, and dragons. As always, if you'd like a question answered in a future edition of the column, just mail it along to ask@massively.com or leave it in the comments.

Continue reading Ask Massively: Several reasons edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: Several reasons edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-massivelybackstorycolumnfeaturedgenreshumorloremmo-genresopinionpublic-testpublic-test-serverstorytest-serverThu, 20 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online opens character transfers to the test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/star-trek-online-opens-character-transfers-to-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/star-trek-online-opens-character-transfers-to-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/star-trek-online-opens-character-transfers-to-the-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You're going forward in time, not backward. But that's not the point.
When the testing process started for Star Trek Online's upcoming free-to-play version, players were limited to creating new characters rather than bringing over old favorites. The reasoning was simple: Because the game will be flinging the doors open to a flood of new players, that experience absolutely needs to be top-notch. But now that the testing has been ongoing for some time, the Tribble test server is open for players to bring a higher-ranked Federation or Klingon character across.

Naturally, there are some restrictions to the process, namely that players are limited in their overall number of characters transferred. Characters will also be updated to the newer game version, meaning several currency changes for Federation characters and a long list of changes for any Klingon characters. The newest entry in the Path to F2P blog series outlines the details, which should be pertinent to any players eager to see what their characters will play like when the business model shifts.

MassivelyStar Trek Online opens character transfers to the test server originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-transferscrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotesttest-servertrek-onlinetribbleupdatesTue, 18 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Testing out the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/captains-log-testing-out-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online wallpaper of a pile of Tribbles
Captain's Log, Stardate 65264.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! As you have must have seen by now, open beta testing of Star Trek Online's new F2P model is well underway; the developers have been posting dev diaries about the impending changes for the last couple of days. Because testers on the Tribble test server were required to start new characters, and because character transfers will not be an option for at least a few weeks, many players have begun a mad dash to level up their test characters in order to test out some of the retooled endgame content.

Since testing, especially in this manner, can be confusing, I have decided to dedicate this week's Captain's Log to those who are willing to take on the challenge. Past the jump, you will find a checklist of sorts that you can use while testing (or, ultimately, playing) the new content and updates. I suggest reading each section and then checking it out in-game. While some recommendations may seem less interesting than others, I suggest you give each a fair shot so you can provide feedback on what can make the game better.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's give our dedicated Tribbleites some structure to their testing time...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Testing out the future

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Testing out the future originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blogc-storecrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrencycurrency-updatedan-griffisdeep-space-ninedev-blogdev-diarydeveloper-blogdeveloper-diaryduty-officerduty-officer-systemevent-calendarf2pfeature-testingfeaturedfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsgeoff-tuffligozerlivestreamlore-missionsmission-journalmission-windownew-systemspatchespath-to-f2pperfect-world-entertainmentpweremasteredsci-fispecial-testingstst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostfstf-updatesstotest-servertesting-rewardstrek-onlinetutorialtutorial-updateuiui-tweakupdatesThu, 06 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online bringing the Klingons into the free-to-play test realm]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/star-trek-online-bringing-the-klingons-into-the-free-to-play-tes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/star-trek-online-bringing-the-klingons-into-the-free-to-play-tes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/05/star-trek-online-bringing-the-klingons-into-the-free-to-play-tes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Space. The place where we will fight a large number of people for honor.
The KDF faction has always struggled in Star Trek Online, from its early perception among players as the game's red-headed stepchild of a PvP faction to the present day. But there are still dedicated Klingon players, and there's no shortage of love for the faction in the lore. So there will no doubt be many players happy that starting on October 6th, the Klingon's new and improved play experience will be up for players to enjoy on the test server.

In a significant departure from the past, Klingon players will now start well into the Lieutenant Commander rank, giving players a sizable jump in levels. The story arcs for the faction are now threaded together to alleviate the sometimes confusing structure of the story missions, giving a uniquely Klingon experience from start to finish. And as with all of the testing going on prior to the game's free-to-play conversion, players who clock in enough time to reach level 31 on a Klingon character will earn some bonus rewards -- enough to stir a true warrior's blood for the honor of victory.

MassivelyStar Trek Online bringing the Klingons into the free-to-play test realm originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfactionsfree-to-playkdfklingonspath-to-f2pst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotesttest-servertesting-rewardstrek-onlineWed, 05 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Testing players to receive rewards in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/testing-players-to-receive-rewards-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/testing-players-to-receive-rewards-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/testing-players-to-receive-rewards-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

They're not actually all that troublesome.
One of the little carrots that Star Trek Online has always given its players is a reward for playing on the test server. Specifically, by playing on the Tribble server, players receive a unique "bonus" tribble for their captain on the live server. The fourth entry in the Path to F2P blog series promises that players who take part on the test server will once again receive a special ball of fluff to call their own... but there's more on the way.

The special reward tribble will be given to anyone who either reaches level 6 on a character created for the test server or transfers a higher-level character over once the transfers become available. Current subscribers who clock in time on the server will also be eligible for several other small rewards -- nothing spectacular individually, but enough so that players who log in regular testing will feel a bit of an extra bonus. The test server will get the KDF faction opened this week, so Star Trek Online players will have plenty to test in the name of easily replicating cooing dustbunnies.

The fifth Path to F2P blog post has also gone live this evening with more details on how to rack up these test points and a deeper explanation for why you'd want to do so.

MassivelyTesting players to receive rewards in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-model-conversionconversioncrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfeature-testingfree-to-playpath-to-f2pspecial-testingst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertesting-rewardstrek-onlinetribbletribblesupdatesTue, 04 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE adds more racial captain's quarters to test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/eve-adds-more-racial-captains-quarters-to-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/eve-adds-more-racial-captains-quarters-to-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/30/eve-adds-more-racial-captains-quarters-to-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Gallente captain's quarters
Those of you chafing under the constraints of the Minmatar captain's quarters released earlier this summer as part of EVE Online's Incarna expansion have reason to celebrate. The other three racially themed quarters have just been deployed to Singularity (that's the test server, for you EVE newbs).

When we say racially themed, we don't mean like an Al Sharpton monologue but rather like the Gallente, Caldari, and Amarr races who, along with the Minmatar, make up EVE's four playable factions. A new dev blog hits the highlights of each CQ, and each one boasts a visual aesthetic that mirrors its race.

Gallente quarters, for example, are "are slick and streamlined -- comfort through elegant design. The mirror is also prominent, since the Gallenteans are known to spend a lot of time in front of it." The Minmatar pad has also been tweaked, and you can read all the details at the official EVE website. Before you go, check out the preview video after the cut.

[Update: CCP has also uploaded a video explaining the new time dilation feature.]

Continue reading EVE adds more racial captain's quarters to test server

MassivelyEVE adds more racial captain's quarters to test server originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldaricaptains-quartersccpccp-gamescqeveeve-onlinegallenteincarnaminmatarsci-fiscifisingularitytest-servertrailervideoFri, 30 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online outlining the road to free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-trek-online-outlining-the-road-to-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-trek-online-outlining-the-road-to-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-trek-online-outlining-the-road-to-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Poke the energy being with a stick, sir? Sure thing! This is probably okay.
The conversion to free-to-play isn't here yet for Star Trek Online, but it's on its way. And like so many things in the franchise, it's starting off with a sacrificial redshirt. Specifically, it's kicking off with the advent of the RedShirt test server for the game, as explained in the first "Path to F2P" blog entry on the official site. It's not that Tribble, the longtime test server, is being removed altogether -- instead, it's being repurposed to allow current subscribers a preview of the game's upcoming conversion.

According to executive producer Stephen D'Angelo, Tribble will reopen for players on the 29th, although it will not be accepting character transfers upon opening. This is intentional, as the development team wants players to test out the new early portions of the game and enjoy the revised experience. It's the start of what promises to be a long path, but current subscribers and the team behind the game get to walk it one step at a time.

MassivelyStar Trek Online outlining the road to free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelconversioncrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopmentf2pfree-to-playpreviewsredshirtst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertestingtrek-onlinetribbleThu, 29 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DCUO's Game Update 5 now on the PC test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/dcuos-game-update-5-now-on-the-pc-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/dcuos-game-update-5-now-on-the-pc-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/dcuos-game-update-5-now-on-the-pc-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- DC Universe Online
Calling all DC Universe Online heroes and villains! Game Update 5 is now available for testing on the PC test servers, and it's up to players to help work out the kinks. PvE players get a new treat in the form of Fortress 2, the second in the Fortress of Solitude raid series. With the help of some new Kryptonian friends, players must go toe-to-toe with Brainiac's Avatar of Meta. A "beefed-up" version of the HIVE alert has been introduced as a new Tier 2 alert, and players can take on updated bosses for epic new loot.

Meanwhile, on the PvP end of the spectrum, the duelling system has been updated and SOE wants players to lay the smack down on one another to ensure that it's bug-free. A quasi-new PvP map is also available in the form of the former 2v2 Legends Batcave map. Now players can take their own characters into the arena to fight for dominance in Bruce Wayne's not-so-secret-anymore hideout.

For the full details on what's being tested, and to to get in on the fun yourself, head on over to the official forum post.

MassivelyDCUO's Game Update 5 now on the PC test server originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuofortress-of-solitudegame-update-5gu5HIVE-alertsoesony-online-entertainmenttesttest-serverFri, 23 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
Hello, computer (and players)! As we are all now aware, the development team at Star Trek Online is busy making its preparations to re-launch the game with a hybrid, free-to-play model. Currently, the Tribble test server has been taken down as a beta build is being prepared for testing. In the meantime, Red Shirt, originally a Closed Beta test sever, has been opened up to current subscribers to continue testing new releases that will occur between now and the F2P launch. While there is still no date set for when this will be happening, many signs point to an October or November launch period.

To add to the craziness that must be going on at Cryptic's headquarters in Northern California, on Tuesday, Dan Stahl, Executive Producer of STO, publicly announced that he would be vacating the Captain's Chair as he moves on to a new endeavor in his career. Effective immediately, Stephen D'Angelo, Cryptic's CTO, will be taking temporary command as the search for a new EP begins. While this came as a shock to many and was completely unexpected even by me, it may not be the "end of the world" as some players are calling it. Let's explore more.

Ensign, warp 10! Set sensors to maximum range as we explore a little bit more about this change...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells)

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahldevelopment-teamepescortexecutive-producerfeaturedlivestreampatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvppweredshirtst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertrek-onlinetribbleThu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[STO's August engineering report on plans for Feature Series 4]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
It's that time again, Trekkers and Trekkies -- Star Trek Online's August Engineering Report is upon us.

STO executive producer Daniel Stahl has offered up a post that kicks off with praise for Cryptic's new overlords at Perfect World Entertainment. He goes on to state that subs are up as players stream in to check out the new Ground Combat system and that the team is working extra hard to push out the long-awaited Deep Space 9-themed Feature Series 4. Stahl also outlines the devs' fall plans for the REDSHIRT closed beta server and notes that the upcoming September 22nd update "will be pretty big [...] some might say even bigger than the launch of Season 4."

Finally, the post winds down with a meaty list of game features and bug fixes currently in testing, including tweaks to the Duty Officer system, random Borg encounters, the group-finder tool, lore quests, and more.

MassivelySTO's August engineering report on plans for Feature Series 4 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlengineering-reportpatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweredshirtstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestotest-servertribbleMon, 22 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64959.3...

Hello, compu... what the... shields up, red alert! Brace for impact! A giant Tribble is on the loose, and its name is Season Four. That's right -- the Star Trek Online public test server, Tribble, sometimes nicknamed the Trouble with Tribble, has finally reopened with the major update that we have all been waiting for. This build was first pushed last Friday but was taken down moments later due to a "major database error." The show-stopping kinks have been worked out now, so it is time to get to testing out all of the new content I have been writing about for the past couple of months.

If you have not seen the release notes for this build, there are dozens of updates that will be altering the way you have come to play the game. Not sure what to test? That is what I am here for. The goal of this week's Captain's Log is to provide you a checklist on what to hit up once you patch your game and get on your test toon. Also, if you have never installed the test server, now is a great time -- Cryptic will soon be announcing a Tribble Test Weekend, during which you can log in and receive an exclusive item on the live server just for helping test.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's share some text from the word of Tribble...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-updateassimilationbehind-the-scenesborgcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlfeaturedfoundryground-combatground-combat-revampkdfklingonlivestreampvepve-queueqonosseason-4season-fourstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosto-livestreamtesttest-servertribblevivoxThu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT confirms development of an addon API]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/rift-confirms-development-of-an-addon-api/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/rift-confirms-development-of-an-addon-api/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/rift-confirms-development-of-an-addon-api/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's been rumored for much of the day with implementation scattered throughout the test client, but it's been confirmed -- addons are coming to RIFT. In a post to the official forums, James Nichols explains that the game's addon API is currently being tested for implementation, with the hope that players will be able to customize the game's interface while still maintaining the high level of quality found throughout the game. A precise release has not been stated, as the API is still in its earliest stages of development.

Fan reaction has been mixed, as addons have long been a contentious element of many games -- some players feel that they strip down complexity of play, and there are obvious comparisons to be drawn with World of Warcraft. At the same time, the promise to allow free customization and alteration to RIFT has many players excited and looking forward to the new feature. Either way, it's coming to the game, so only time will tell what the implementation will bring.

[Thanks puremallace for the tip!]

MassivelyRIFT confirms development of an addon API originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onsaddonsbreakingpatchespending-updatesriftrift-planes-of-telaratest-servertriontrion-worldsupdatesFri, 03 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth lets players take a stroll through Alpha County]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/fallen-earth-lets-players-take-a-stroll-through-alpha-county/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/fallen-earth-lets-players-take-a-stroll-through-alpha-county/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/16/fallen-earth-lets-players-take-a-stroll-through-alpha-county/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Long-awaited and heavily anticipated, Fallen Earth's Alpha County has long been the game's promised land, an environment that's at once near and far. But the release is just around the corner, and the developers are giving players a chance to peek behind the walls just a little bit early. Starting tomorrow, May 17th, Alpha County is going live on the public test server, giving all of the game's players the chance to wander around in a strange new territory.

For players who want to dive into the story on the actual release and no sooner, fear not -- the announcement promises that the test server won't offer any spoilers as to storyline. But players will be able to explore a new environment and get a feel for the lay of the land, even if they can't get a feel for every new piece of content right out of the gate. Fallen Earth players had best prepare for the test server sneak peek, as it's only a day away.

MassivelyFallen Earth lets players take a stroll through Alpha County originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 May 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpha-countyfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeicarusicarus-studiosnew-areasnew-environmentsnewspatchespreviewpublic-testpublic-test-servertest-serverupcoming-patchesMon, 16 May 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Progress]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/wasteland-diaries-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/wasteland-diaries-progress/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/13/wasteland-diaries-progress/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I had some spare time this week, so I went on the Fallen Earth public test server to check out some of the new stuff. Progress towns have made their debut, and so has a slew of new skills and abilities. Actually, saying that there are new skills and abilities is kind of an understatement. There is an entirely new skills-and-abilities system in place on the PTS. It is barely recognizable compared to what we have now. Yes, it's that different. Is this a good thing, or is it bad?

With Sector 4 looming on Fallen Earth's horizon, we are looking down the barrel of the gun of change. There are a lot of new things coming our way soon, most of which are closely guarded secrets. I did have an opportunity to see some of the new stuff we'll be seeing in the next patch, but I didn't get to peer behind the giant wall that keeps our prying clone eyes out of the next sector. If any of this stuff interests you, click past the cut and I'll go into a little more detail about it.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Progress

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Progress originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 May 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesapdirty-tricksescape-artistfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedheavy-weaponsicarus-studiosIlluminationpowerprecisionprogress-townsptssector-4skillstest-serverFri, 13 May 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Minmatar captain's quarters coming to EVE Online test server this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/minmatar-captains-quarters-coming-to-eve-online-test-server-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/minmatar-captains-quarters-coming-to-eve-online-test-server-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/minmatar-captains-quarters-coming-to-eve-online-test-server-thi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Get ready, capsuleers. Captain's quarters are coming, and sooner than you might expect. CCP Tanis breaks the news that a rough version of the Minmatar captain's quarters will be making an appearance on the Duality test server this Thursday, April 21st.

That's right: Two days hence, all you Brutors, Sebiestors, and Vherokiors will finally be able to walk around on your own two legs inside of the EVE Online client. CCP's newest dev blog cautions that the test environment is a true work-in-progress, and Tanis states that "we're still at the chisel-in-hand-in-front-of-a-marble-form stage."

Why make the environment available to the public at this point? CCP is mainly looking to gather feedback and general impressions on usability, since the captain's quarters interface is eventually slated to replace the current in-game hangar view. The test run will also feature new in-station and crash course tutorials as well as interfaces for planetary interaction, corporation management, avatar re-customization, and ship fitting.

In other EVE Online news, the new Council of Stellar Management held its first fireside chat a few days ago, and an audio recording of the broadcast is now available for download on the official EVE forums.

MassivelyMinmatar captain's quarters coming to EVE Online test server this week originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambulationaudiocaptains-quartersccpccp-gamesccp-taniscouncil-of-stellar-managementcsmdev-blogdev-diarydualityeveeve-onlinefeedbackfireside-chatincarnainterfaceminmatarsandboxsci-fitest-environmenttest-serverwalking-in-stationswooooooTue, 19 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCsoft aiming for Aion 2.5 test at the end of April]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/ncsoft-aiming-for-aion-2-5-test-at-the-end-of-april/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/ncsoft-aiming-for-aion-2-5-test-at-the-end-of-april/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/ncsoft-aiming-for-aion-2-5-test-at-the-end-of-april/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Aion's 2.5 update has been a long time coming. We first heard tell of the patch in early January and are happy to report that NCsoft is looking to take the wraps off the new content via the game's test servers in the next few weeks.

In a new interview at the official UK Aion website, producer Sean Neil and brand manager Dominic Wai take turns answering player-generated questions relating to the new patch, which Neil says should be "on our player test servers (PTS) at the end of April or beginning of May."

What, exactly, does 2.5 bring to the world of Atreia? Quite a lot, actually, and whether you're talking about the extensive graphical overhaul or the new Empyrean Crucible and Esoterrace dungeon instances, chances are there will be something interesting in the update for every daeva. Getting to endgame should be less of a chore as well, and while Aion still possesses one of the more daunting gear grinds in the genre, NCsoft is introducing a mentoring system in 2.5 that allows "new players [to] level up quicker with the help of a friend."

MassivelyNCsoft aiming for Aion 2.5 test at the end of April originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.5aionaion-2.5ap-grinddominic-waiempyrean-crucibleesoterracefantasygear-grindgraphical-updategraphicsgrindgrindyinterviewslevel-grindmentoring-systemncsoftpatchptssean-neiltest-serverupdatevision-trailerWed, 06 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine posts DDO Update 9 patch notes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/turbine-posts-ddo-update-9-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/turbine-posts-ddo-update-9-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/turbine-posts-ddo-update-9-patch-notes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's update time in the world of Eberron, and Turbine's Tolero has posted the substantial patch notes on the official Dungeons and Dragons Online forums. Update 9 is currently strutting its stuff on the Lamannia test server, and among the new features are updated combat animations, a Saltire District adventure pack, and a host of tweaks to a lengthy list of spells and abilities.

The list is so long, in fact, that we couldn't reproduce it here, so head to the boards and see for yourself. Update 9 also boasts a couple of class changes, notably additional early level spell points for Rangers and Paladins as well as a new Echoes of Power effect. When a player with the magical training feat is low on spell points, Echoes of Power will automatically come to the rescue with a regeneration effect.

MassivelyTurbine posts DDO Update 9 patch notes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ability-tweaksadventure-packddoddo-update-9dungeons-and-dragons-onlineechoes-of-powerf2pfree-to-playlamanniapatchpatch-notessaltire-districtspell-tweaksspellstest-servertoleroturbineturbine-entertainmenttweaksupdateupdate-9Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lambda Sector trial on deck for preview in City of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/lambda-sector-trial-on-deck-for-preview-in-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/lambda-sector-trial-on-deck-for-preview-in-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/lambda-sector-trial-on-deck-for-preview-in-city-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

So you've got a newly animal-themed hero from last week's Animal Pack launch in City of Heroes and you're just not sure what to do with him. Well, there's good news -- the developers at Paragon Studios will be hosting another preview event for an Issue 20 trial on the test realm. The last preview event covered the previously announced Behavioral Adjustment Facility, but this test wll be centered around the heretofore unseen Lambda Sector trial.

Taking place on the test server, the trial will be running on March 1st on the European test server and March 3rd for the U.S. servers. Both events will also include a random code giveaway for all players in attendance, including new Animal Pack codes and the rare Rikti Mentalist costume. City of Heroes players owe it to themselves to check the times and attend if at all possible, as it promises to be a fun ride for everyone involved.

MassivelyLambda Sector trial on deck for preview in City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcoh-issue-20covcoxin-game-eventincarnateincarnate-trialissue-20ncsoftparagonparagon-studiospatchespreviewtesttest-eventtest-servertrialupcoming-patchesSun, 27 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you roll on the test server?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/the-daily-grind-do-you-roll-on-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/the-daily-grind-do-you-roll-on-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/the-daily-grind-do-you-roll-on-the-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ah test servers.

They run the gamut from not-ready-for-prime-time mess to "hey cool, content previews." Test shards feature everything from stand-up fights to bug hunts and quite a lot of shenanigans in between. Just about every MMORPG has one, and many game developers publicize the venerable PTS in order to sweet-talk players into providing free testing services for upcoming patches, expansions, and fixes.

A few test servers change the game experience quite radically (Aion's double XP PTS springs to mind), while others are replicas of the live shards and even allow you to port over your existing avatars. For today's Daily Grind, we'd like to know your feelings on test servers, and specifically, why you do or don't use them. Do you do it to help out? Are you more interested in getting a leg up on the next patch? Do you avoid them altogether or do you roll on test servers?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you roll on the test server? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbug-huntbugsgame-discussiongamer-discussionits-a-bug-huntmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicspublic-test-servertdgtest-serverthe-daily-grindWed, 23 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth 1.8 patch on PTS, extensive ability changes incoming]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/fallen-earth-1-8-patch-on-pts-extensive-ability-changes-incomin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/fallen-earth-1-8-patch-on-pts-extensive-ability-changes-incomin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/fallen-earth-1-8-patch-on-pts-extensive-ability-changes-incomin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Fallen Earth public test server (PTS) is the place to be for sneak peeks at upcoming content, and as of right now, said new content is the 1.8 patch. Icarus Studios' Carlin has posted the version notes on the Fallen Earth forums, and a quick glance at them indicates that 1.8 is quite the meaty update.

The biggest change is the forthcoming ability revamp. According to the notes, "almost all abilities have been changed, with the goal of increasing the number and viability of different player roles and play-styles. Some abilities have been removed, and some new abilities have been added." Patch 1.8 also introduces new NPCs and missions in various parts of the wasteland, UI tweaks (including new chat channels), and an adjustment to the rate at which random AP is gained.

If you've never tried the PTS on for size, you can download the client and also pay a visit to the forums to get your bearings.

MassivelyFallen Earth 1.8 patch on PTS, extensive ability changes incoming originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.81.8-patchAbilitiesAbility-revampApCarlinFallen-earthIcarusIcarus-studiosPatchPatch-notesPatchesPlayer-rolesPost-apocalypticPtsPublic-test-serverSci-fiTest-serverWastelandFri, 18 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes offering a sneak peek of Issue 20 content]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/city-of-heroes-offering-a-sneak-peek-of-issue-20-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/city-of-heroes-offering-a-sneak-peek-of-issue-20-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/city-of-heroes-offering-a-sneak-peek-of-issue-20-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The team at Paragon Studios is talking a pretty big game for Issue 20 of City of Heroes. We've already seen a preview of one of the major additions of content, which will also herald several new features to the game, including an auto-team queueing function. Not sure how it will be implemented? Then jump on in for the special sneak preview event on Wednesday, starting at 7:00 p.m. EST, when players on the test server will get to try out the upcoming Behavioral Adjustment Facility for themselves.

As this event is taking place on the test servers, the usual caveats that content may change significantly before release do apply. That being said, it's an opportunity to put the major new systems into play, giving players a chance to test out the queue system as well as the League setup, and of course, the Incarnate trial. If that's not incitement enough, the development team will be on-hand to answer questions and take part in the experience. City of Heroes players with a bit of free time on Wednesday are encouraged to head over and adjust some behaviors with extreme prejudice.

MassivelyCity of Heroes offering a sneak peek of Issue 20 content originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-eventbeta-testingcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcontent-patchescovcoxi20in-game-eventissue-20major-patchesncsoftparagonparagon-studiospatchpatch-testingpatchestest-servertesting-eventupdate-testingupdatesTue, 15 Feb 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Just around the bend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/the-road-to-mordor-just-around-the-bend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/the-road-to-mordor-just-around-the-bend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/the-road-to-mordor-just-around-the-bend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's been a few months since the November Update in Lord of the Rings Online, and the natives are restless -- as usual. Some folks are despairing the long wait until Rise of Isengard while others are itching for more challenges to their currently level-capped characters. Then there are the players who are hopelessly lost in Moria and would give their eye teeth for a flashlight.

Happily, a new update is just around the bend, code-named Echoes of the Dead. The actual name is Echoes of the Dead too, so I guess that's not such a great code. Over the past couple of weeks, we've started to get a feel for just how large this update is, and after reading through the Bullroarer test notes on Wednesday, I think we're in for a tsunami of a patch.

Of course, these patch notes come in the middle of Turbine's carefully spaced dev diaries dealing with each major change or addition, which means that we're a little in the dark as to the specifics of half of this update. That's not going to stop me -- or any of you -- from analyzing, speculating and gesturing excitedly to no one in particular.

So let's dig in to this hearty meal of mushrooms and patch notes to see just how deep LotRO's rabbit hole goes!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Just around the bend

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Just around the bend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bear-hugburglarcharacter-panelcosmetic-outfitcraftingdamage-over-timedotdungeonsechoes-of-the-deadfeaturefeaturedhunterinstanceslegacieslegendary-itemslord-of-the-ringslore-masterlotromap-homeminstrelmonster-playmoriamysterious-relicsnovember-updateoutfitoutfit-systempatchpatch-notespvepvmpradianceraidraid-instancesrise-of-isengardrune-keepersamsungskirmishesstancestest-servertest-server-notesthe-road-to-mordortim-langturbineuiupdateupdate-notesuser-interfacevolume-1volume-2volume-3volume-3-book-3Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Double-plus good: Luna Online expansion heading to test servers December 24th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/double-plus-good-luna-online-expansion-heading-to-test-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/double-plus-good-luna-online-expansion-heading-to-test-servers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/23/double-plus-good-luna-online-expansion-heading-to-test-servers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

And now for a public service announcement from your friends at Massively. Are you suffering from a severe cute deficiency in your MMO diet? Then you may want to consider Luna Online, which has 400% of the recommended daily allowance of big eyes, oversized heads and giggly animals.

To make your Luna Online life even better, gPotato has announced that the new expansion for the game, Luna Plus, is hitting the public test servers from December 24th through January 7th. Testers will be able to preview all of the new content and zones, including a 30-level increase (to the new level 150 cap), an additional race, a castle siege and seven previously unexplored areas. If that's not enough, Luna Plus will feature eight-person mounts, such as a giant snail. We just hope you and your party don't want to get anywhere in a pressing hurry.

Luna Online players have a lot to look forward to with this first expansion, especially with the ability to get their hands on it even earlier. For more information, ask your local librarian or head over to Luna Online. The more you know -- and knowing is half the battle.

MassivelyDouble-plus good: Luna Online expansion heading to test servers December 24th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castle-siegeclassexpansiongiggly-animalsgpotatoknowing-is-half-the-battlelevel-capluna-onlineluna-plusmountmountspsasnailtest-serverthe-more-you-knowThu, 23 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Tester-day]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/wasteland-diaries-tester-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/wasteland-diaries-tester-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/wasteland-diaries-tester-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I spent an entire day on the Fallen Earth Public Test Server (PTS). I have to admit, I was pretty impressed with what I saw. The development team over at Fallen Earth, LLC is making some sweeping changes to the game. I wasn't just impressed by the new artwork and the smoother game mechanics; I was also impressed with the amount of communication the Fallen Earth dev team is giving to its testers. And why not? We pay the devs to test their product.

While there is a lot of new stuff to check out, I spent the majority of a day trying to digest as much of this new content as I possibly could, and I didn't really even scratch the surface. I spent a good eight hours on the server, though about four of those hours were devoted to testing the combat system. I did a few bug reports, but aside from grenades being totally broken, most everything seemed to be in order. After the break I'll give you some first-hand accounts of what I've discovered. You could just read the patch notes, but it just isn't the same.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Tester-day

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Tester-day originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As Star Trek Online grows ever-closer to its one-year anniversary in February 2011, fans of Cryptic's space saga have burning questions about the future of the game. In swoops Executive Producer Dan Stahl to keep the flames under control with a whopping 30 answers in the latest STO Q&A session.

As usual, there is no overriding theme to these questions, which range from whether we'll be seeing the 2009 Star Trek movie's Enterprise in the game (only if Paramount gives permission), whether Cryptic is working on more voice-overs for missions (yes), and when we'll be seeing the Tholians (probably not until after Season 4 releases). Stahl emphasizes that the STO team's prime directive is, simply, "More Like Trek," and the devs are working hard to infuse more of a Star Trek feel into every aspect of the game.

Meanwhile, the Foundry -- the player-created mission system -- briefly went into beta on the Tribble test server yesterday, but was quickly taken down due to issues with the infrastructure. Stahl has great hopes for it, however: "In all -- the Foundry will open up the ability for the community to create some great (and let's be honest -- not so great) missions that you'll be able to play just like any other mission in the game."

MassivelySTO's Dan Stahl fields 30 questions about the Enterprise, Tholians and more originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fallen Earth fans have had a rough couple of weeks (to say nothing of the staff at Icarus Studios). The post-apocalyptic sci-fi MMORPG was recently hit with a round of layoffs that impacted several key people and likely left subscribers wondering as to the future of everyone's favorite digital wasteland.

Happily, Icarus senior game designer Marie Croall is here with a lengthy State of the Game letter that puts a few of our fears to rest and outlines a path forward. Though Croall doesn't directly address the recent layoffs, preferring instead to focus on the upcoming development schedule, it's clear that there are a lot of improvements incoming, which bodes well for Fallen Earth's fans and future.

Croall talks about Sector 4, a level cap increase, and new gear, consumables, and recipes that will soon see the light of day. Graphical upgrades and physical combat changes are also on the way, with the latter being pushed to the test server before the end of the month. The Fallen Earth team will also be improving high-end group content, tweaking the serendipity system, and continuing to balance Progress Towns throughout December. Finally, look for long-awaited additional character slots to be available in the Fallen Earth store as early as next week.

Check out the full letter on the official forums, and also look for the Fallen Earth devs on next week's Massively Speaking podcast with Shawn and Rubi.

MassivelyIcarus publishes latest Fallen Earth State of the Game originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fallen-earthfallen-earth-llcgearhigh-end-group-contenticarusicarus-studiositemsmarie-croallphysical-combat-changesprogress-townsrecipesState-of-the-gametest-serverworld-bossesTue, 16 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO barters, gallops and tasks with advance patch notes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lotro-details-november-update-with-advance-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lotro-details-november-update-with-advance-patch-notes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/26/lotro-details-november-update-with-advance-patch-notes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Those who assumed that Turbine would be taking it easy for its next Lord of the Rings Online patch may want to sit down, buckle up and prepare to be thrust into a wall of patch notes. The list of changes and additions for LotRO's November update have been posted, and players may check them out on the Bullroarer test server.

While the notes are "subject to change," they contain an impressive list of additions we've known were coming (such as expanding the free-to-play coverage to include the expansions all the way up through level 65) as well as a few surprises. Among the surprises are a new barter wallet to hold inventory-clogging skirmish and anniversary tokens, the ability for former subscribers to use swift travel routes, upgrades to reputation mounts, new ingredient packs for crafters and an overhaul of the Dwarf and Elf starting area.

The notes also give us a peek at the mysterious "Task" system. According to Turbine, this system will add 250 repeatable quests to the game, be accessible by all tiers of players, and will require current trophy drops. Tasks will also come with a new set of deeds and rewards, hopefully adding to the amount of free Turbine Points that players can accrue. You can read the test server patch notes on the LotRO forums.

MassivelyLotRO barters, gallops and tasks with advance patch notes originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barter-walletbullroarercraftingdwarfelfexpansionf2pfree-to-playingredient-packlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotronovember-updatereputation-mountskirmish-tokensswift-traveltask-systemtest-serverturbineTue, 26 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: What's next?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/wasteland-diaries-whats-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/wasteland-diaries-whats-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/wasteland-diaries-whats-next/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

There isn't yet a known release date for the next Fallen Earth patch. The 1.7.1 patch will make some fundamental changes to the combat system. These changes will be far-reaching, but they will not alter gameplay drastically. Mainly, we will see an increase in damage dealt across the board. This will make combat in Fallen Earth seem a bit more dangerous than it is now. PvE just doesn't quicken my pulse like it did when I was a new player in Sector 1. The patch will also address this. It will also add the faction control points.

The main focus of the patch is the combat re-vamp and the control points. The Armor Use skill and the Dodge skill have been redesigned, and the way that damage mitigation works is a bit different in version 1.7.1. The faction control points will give the clones a reason to fight, and the victorious faction will reap far-reaching rewards. I'll go into more detail about these tidbits and more after the break, so without any further ado, let's move on.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: What's next?

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: What's next? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armor-usecombatcombat-changesdodgefactionfaction-control-pointsfactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfefeaturedicarusicarus-studiospatchptstest-serverFri, 15 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Form and function in Fallen Earth's latest state of the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/form-and-function-in-fallen-earths-latest-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/form-and-function-in-fallen-earths-latest-state-of-the-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/form-and-function-in-fallen-earths-latest-state-of-the-game/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There's been a lot of excitement in the Fallen Earth community over the upcoming combat changes, and in producer Dave "Archangel" Haydysch's latest state of the game address, he assures everyone that the anticipation is worth it. "As I mentioned," Haydysch writes, "this is the FIRST iteration... we will use your feedback to make further adjustments and improvements to the system until we feel the system is ready to go live."

He urges players to participate on the public test server, where numerous systems are being tested, including these combat upgrades and the upcoming Faction Control Points, which should add spice to the PvP play in the game.

Looking at future patches, Haydysch reports that the team will be revamping combat skills and mutations relating to each of Fallen Earth's six factions. The team is also working hard on bringing additional visual improvements to the wasteland, which "will improve the look and feel of the world as a whole." These improvements are scheduled to hit the game at the same time as the next live event, which is so far a mysterious mystery shrouded in mysteriousness.

Finally, Haydysch acknowledges additional selections will become available in the Rewards Store, including (drum roll please) more space for inventory-starved adventurers. You can read the full state of the game report over at Fallen Earth.

MassivelyForm and function in Fallen Earth's latest state of the game originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combat-improvementscombat-upgradedave-haydyschfaction-control-pointsfactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcicarus-studiosinventorylock-and-loadone-weapon-is-the-lonliest-numberptsrewards-storetest-serverThu, 14 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Combat overhaul]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/wasteland-diaries-combat-overhaul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/wasteland-diaries-combat-overhaul/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/wasteland-diaries-combat-overhaul/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Merging a roleplaying game (RPG) and a first-person shooter/third-person shooter FPS/TPS seamlessly can be difficult to say the least. I can only think of a few examples of games that have been done well in this manner. But none of the examples I can think of is an MMO. Granted I haven't played every game in existence, so this is by no means a definitive assertion. I'll call Fallen Earth an MMO/FPS in this post, for the sake of simplicity, even though it's an MMORPGFPS/TPS, but that's a mouthful and it looks like something an Enigma machine spit out.

The Fallen Earth combat system is a mix of two very different game types: an MMORPG and a shooter. Some of my detractors insist that Fallen Earth is an MMORPG with "manual targeting," but I respectfully disagree and consider it as much of a shooter as games that run on the Quake 3 engine. Just because it doesn't have "bullet-drop" physics doesn't mean it's not a shooter. There is a combat revamp headed our way this month, so I thought I would do an in-depth analysis of the FE combat system. After the break I intend to pop the hood on the combat system and take a close look at its mechanics, then try to surmise what changes might be incoming (even though I've seen some of them).

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Combat overhaul

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Combat overhaul originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatcombat-systemfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedicarusicarus-studiospatchpatch-1.7ptspvepvpSandboxtest-serverFri, 08 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New EVE character creation videos prove CCP can make pretty humans too]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/new-eve-character-creation-videos-prove-ccp-can-make-pretty-huma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/new-eve-character-creation-videos-prove-ccp-can-make-pretty-huma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/new-eve-character-creation-videos-prove-ccp-can-make-pretty-huma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

While some may not care for the sandbox play and politics of EVE Online, we often hear from people about how graphically gorgeous they think the game is. Well, with the new character creator that's been released to the Singularity test server, CCP is showing that it's ready to rock a whole new way -- Incarna! These two videos preview the shiny new creator in testing, showing off a Caldari Achura female and a Minmatar Brutor male character. We'd also note that CCP has made it clear that the character creator is a work in progress and as such is missing some options currently.

Of course, we'd be lying if we didn't point out that this character creator preview video also makes us squee for CCP's other title under development: World of Darkness. The character creator for that game will have to be able to balance the ethereal beauty of the Toreador clan with the twistedly horrific looks of the Nosferatu clan all in one -- and we'd say this one shows the promise of having that kind of power. Check out the full videos after the break!

[Thanks, CrazyKinux!]

Continue reading New EVE character creation videos prove CCP can make pretty humans too

MassivelyNew EVE character creation videos prove CCP can make pretty humans too originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamescharacter-creatoreveeve-onlineincarnasingularitySiSitest-servertestingwodworld-of-darknessworld-of-darkness-onlineFri, 08 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online brings open RvR modifications to test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/warhammer-online-brings-open-rvr-modifications-to-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/warhammer-online-brings-open-rvr-modifications-to-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/warhammer-online-brings-open-rvr-modifications-to-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Warhammer Online recently turned two years old, and while it's been an occasionally rocky two years, the development team has been focusing in on making the core of the game the best it can be. That's been the motivation behind the plethora of RvR updates that have been pushed live over the past year, culminating in recent news regarding the much-anticipated RvR pack. There's a lot more to come, however, and the team is giving players a chance to try out some of the coming changes early, with the updates to open RvR scheduled for public testing.

The first massed public test of the new mechanics will be taking place on Wednesday, October 6th, at 8:00 p.m. EDT on the Warpstone test server. Tier 3 combat is on the menu, with templates provided for players who don't happen to have a character that fits the criteria. No word on whether or not participants will be eligible for prizes, but considering past test realm events, rewards for players seem like a distinct possibility. Warhammer Online players are encouraged to set some time aside for the Wednesday event and should prepare themselves for Warpstone access ahead of time.

[Editor's note: We've corrected the error in the original post. Thanks to those readers who alerted us to the mistake!]

MassivelyWarhammer Online brings open RvR modifications to test server originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artslakesmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentopen-rvrorvrpatchespvprvrrvr-lakesrvr-packrvr-updatestesttest-servertest-server-accessupdateswarwar-eawarhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eawarpstonewarpstone-serverMon, 04 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion's Assault on Balaurea expansion coming to public test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/09/aions-assault-on-balauria-expansion-coming-to-public-test-serve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/09/aions-assault-on-balauria-expansion-coming-to-public-test-serve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/09/aions-assault-on-balauria-expansion-coming-to-public-test-serve/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

OK, Aion public test server (PTS) fans: would you like the good news first or the bad news? Never mind, here's the bad news: the PTS has been brought down and its database wiped (i.e., your characters and legions are now digital rubble under the NCsoft wrecking ball).

The good news is that all of the destruction, terror, and mayhem is in service to the forthcoming Assault on Balaurea expansion and its eminent appearance on the testing shard. Beginning on August 18th, you can be among the first to experience the new content, in addition to sampling it with the significant XP and drop-rate boosts exclusive to the PTS. The expansion hits the live servers on September 7th, so be sure and read up on how to access the PTS client if you'd like an early start.

MassivelyAion's Assault on Balaurea expansion coming to public test server originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-the-tower-of-eternityassault-on-balaureacharacter-wipeexpansionncsoftptspublic-test-servertest-serverxp-boostMon, 09 Aug 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Patch 1.3.6 available on Warhammer Online's Warpstone server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/24/patch-1-3-6-available-on-warhammer-onlines-warpstone-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/24/patch-1-3-6-available-on-warhammer-onlines-warpstone-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/24/patch-1-3-6-available-on-warhammer-onlines-warpstone-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's been a quiet month for Warhammer Online players, unless you've been part of the transition of management over in Europe, but change appears to be on the horizon. Patch 1.3.6 has been in development for a little while now, and the players are getting to take it for a spin this weekend, as it's just been launched onto the Warpstone public test server. As usual, the development team is hosting a Q&A session as well as a stress test during the test phase, and while the official announcement doesn't mention any giveaways, history would seem to imply they'll be there.

Of course, all of the testing is well and good, but what does the patch actually contain? Fear not, as the full patch notes are available to read, with the major highlights covering item sets and RvR balance -- the latter addressed via the new "Against All Odds" system that gives a bonus to the underdog in RvR lakes. Items will now be customizable via appearance slots, and the Sovereign armor sets have been split into two potential sets for different playstyles. Take a look at the patch notes, and be sure to head on to Warpstone for a preview of the latest and greatest addition to Warhammer Online.

MassivelyPatch 1.3.6 available on Warhammer Online's Warpstone server originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancebioware-mythicea-gamesea-mythicea-warhammerea-warhammer-onlineelectronic-artsitem-appearanceitem-setsmythicmythic-eamythic-entertainmentpatchesrvrtesttest-serverwarwar-eawar-patch-1.3.6warhammerwarhammer-eawarhammer-onlinewarhammer-online-eaSat, 24 Jul 2010 20:00:00 EST