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[Champions Online rolling out Role and Stat changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/champions-online-rolling-out-role-and-stat-changes-stat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/champions-online-rolling-out-role-and-stat-changes-stat/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/champions-online-rolling-out-role-and-stat-changes-stat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Balance isn't a stat. It's just a good idea.
Like many MMOs, Champions Online is at its heart a game of numbers. Your character type focuses on certain stats, and you want to make those stats go higher. But sometimes the way those stats work together is a bit less than intuitive in the live game, hence some recent changes to Super Stats and regular stats on the test servers. The biggest change assigns one primary and two secondary, rather than two Super Stats, to players, which alleviates the current problems with Super Stats (certain pairs of Super Stats work poorly together and are poorly represented in itemization).

Individual stats have also seen some tweaks: Strength is no longer hard-capped for melee damage, Presence has had its threat component removed and a soft-cap introduced, Ego is now solely a ranged stat, and Dexterity has seen improvements to its critical benefits. Roles are also being balanced differently, giving more consistent stat benefits that are more in line with what players in a given role will actually need to do. It's a pretty sweeping set of changes, but the end goal is to give Champions Online players a more straightforward numbers game to play.

MassivelyChampions Online rolling out Role and Stat changes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesbalancebalance-changeschampions-onlinecharacter-buildscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemsmechanicsnewsperfect-world-entertainmentpwestatisticsstatssystemstestFri, 24 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A new invasion is hitting Star Trek Online's test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/a-new-invasion-is-hitting-star-trek-onlines-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/a-new-invasion-is-hitting-star-trek-onlines-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/a-new-invasion-is-hitting-star-trek-onlines-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

That probe is double-parked, too.
There has never been a shortage of stories about the Borg assimilating a culture, but it's rare for the race to actively invade a planet. But that's exactly what's happening on Star Trek Online's test serve: Defera undergoing a large-scale invasion by the Collective. Players in both the Federation and the KDF are tasked with fighting back against the Borg in a variety of different settings across the planet to help test out this new large-scale event.

Running for two hours once started, the event is currently being activated frequently enough so that players can consistently test all of the new elements introduced. If simply taking part in the push to prevent the Borg from getting a foothold isn't enough, the event also offers players new items as mission rewards, drops, and craftables. It should be an interesting event for players to explore in full on the test server, and it serves as another example of the game taking the war against the Borg up another notch.

MassivelyA new invasion is hitting Star Trek Online's test server originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdynamic-eventseventsf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventspatchespath-to-f2pst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotesttrek-onlineupdatesworld-eventsThu, 10 Nov 2011 20:30:00 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[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[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[Ultima Online begins testing Publish 71.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/ultima-online-begins-testing-publish-71-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/ultima-online-begins-testing-publish-71-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/ultima-online-begins-testing-publish-71-0/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You'd think that an MMO well into its golden years like Ultima Online would slow down to take advantage of senior citizen menu options, bingo night, and yelling at youngsters to get off the lawn. But, no, the dev team is instead running like they've never run before, as a new update on the test shard Origin can attest.

Yesterday, the highly anticipated Publish 71.0 was pushed to the test server for players to tinker around and explore. The patch notes tell a tale of many, many balance changes and tweaks, along with plenty of brand-new buff icons. Fishing's also been treated to somewhat of an overhaul with the patch, as additional trophies are being installed and schools of magical fish will begin to move around in order to keep you guessing. There's even a special sea encounter with Charybdis that is only available to dedicated fishermen.

To check out all of the nitty-gritty details and bug fixes that are coming with 71.0, head on over to Ultima Online to read the notes!

MassivelyUltima Online begins testing Publish 71.0 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>71.0buff-iconsbug-fixesCharybdisea-mythicfishingmythicmythic-entertainmentoriginpatchpublishpublish-71.0testtest-shardultima-onlineuoupdateWed, 20 Jul 2011 10:00:00 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[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[Rise and Shiny recap: Linkrealms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/12/rise-and-shiny-recap-linkrealms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/12/rise-and-shiny-recap-linkrealms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/12/rise-and-shiny-recap-linkrealms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Over the last week I was privileged enough to participate in Mythyn Interactive's Linkrealms beta, a game that I had watched for a while now. The trailer is just neat (to use a truly nerdy word) and strikes you immediately with its awesome animations and spell effects. In fact, the animations are very cool and probably one of my favorite parts of the game. That says a lot, especially since the combat and community are such charmers. There's something about the animations that brings the game out of indie territory -- and out of Ultima Online territory -- and plants it more in the area of original and immersive.

Of course, the game is still testing. I will bet that, like many indie games, it will stay in beta for a long, long time. We players need to be forgiving when developers do this and understand that true release -- even just calling it that -- is just not that simple. I can almost sense the fear in my discussions with some of the developers: they have worked their butts off on the game, they have spent way too much time working on this digital world, and they don't want their work to be misrepresented. This fear is completely rational, especially if we think just for a second about how quickly players not only eat up content, but mercilessly blame developers for every single thing they feel is wrong with the game.

So, follow me after the jump and let's talk about why this game is so good, even if it does still need a little more time in the oven.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Linkrealms

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Linkrealms originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2-dbeau-hindmanbetaclosed-betaf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpindependentIndieIsometriclinkrealmsmythynmythyn-interactiverise-and-shinytestUltima-Onlineultima-online-stygian-abyssSun, 12 Dec 2010 10:00:00 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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apap-capboneclawcombatcombat-changeseconomyfaction-control-pointsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfcpfefeaturedicarusicarus-studiospatchptspublic-test-servertesttest-serverFri, 03 Dec 2010 18:00:00 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[EVE Evolved: The war on lag]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/eve-evolved-the-war-on-lag/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/eve-evolved-the-war-on-lag/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/eve-evolved-the-war-on-lag/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It seems as though everywhere I go to read about EVE Online, someone is complaining about lag. Throughout the game's seven-year history, developers and server engineers have waged a constant battle against the lag monster. Frequent upgrades and code overhauls have ensured that the capacity of each server cluster increased at pace with the growing subscriber numbers. When the Dominion expansion came, something in it caused lag to get a lot worse. The issue has yet to be corrected and has even spurred some players to put media pressure on CCP to correct the issue.

Until recently, the developers at CCP had been very quiet on the topic of lag and their efforts to combat it. Aside from the occasional fleet-fight mass testing event on the test server and the news that there was actually an entire team dedicated to lag, players were left largely in the dark as to what was being done to address the issue. In the absence of strong evidence to the contrary, many players began to assert that EVE's developers weren't working on lag at all. Earlier this week, we posted that CCP was planning a series of devblogs on lag to showcase the progress it's made. In a surprisingly rapid turn-around, four devblogs on lag and another on CCP's core technology groups have already been posted. They cover such topics as server scalability, the results of recent mass testing events, and CCP's new "thin client" testing tool.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I introduce each of CCP's four recent devblogs on lag with a quick summary.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: The war on lag

MassivelyEVE Evolved: The war on lag originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-atlasccp-atroposccp-eveccp-gamesccp-tanisccp-warlockdevblogeveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedlaglatencymass-testingserverserver-architecturesingle-shardtesttestingthin-clientSun, 22 Aug 2010 18:00:00 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<![CDATA[Help EVE's developers get to the bottom of fleet lag this Saturday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/help-eves-developers-get-to-the-bottom-of-fleet-lag-this-saturd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/help-eves-developers-get-to-the-bottom-of-fleet-lag-this-saturd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/25/help-eves-developers-get-to-the-bottom-of-fleet-lag-this-saturd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The down side to EVE Online's truly massive single-server design that puts all players in the same universe is that lag has been a constant problem since the game's launch. For the most part, the game runs smoothly and lag doesn't affect the day-to-day lives of players. It's when too many players congregate in one place that the server node they're on begins to grind to a halt. Circumstances can rapidly go from bad to worse, with server nodes collapsing under the strain and database failures occurring.

It's been noticed by players that lag in fleet battles has gotten considerably worse since the Dominion expansion came out. To get to the bottom of the issue, CCP Tanis has been scheduling regular test-server events in an effort to replicate the conditions experienced on the main EVE server. By logging a fleet battle in action, CCP hope to find ways to resolve fleet lag and prevent further lag-causing defects from reaching the main server unnoticed. On Saturday 29th May between 20:00 and 21:00 EVE time, CCP will be running an important hour-long testing session. They're asking players to turn up and help out, as they need at least 300 pilots to begin testing and ideally would want over 500. For information on what the testing consists of and how to access the EVE test-server, visit the official mass testing sticky thread on the EVE forums.

MassivelyHelp EVE's developers get to the bottom of fleet lag this Saturday originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 May 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesccp-taniseveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefleetlagmass-testingpvpsingularitytesttest-servertestingTue, 25 May 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online hosts a play night on the test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/star-trek-online-hosts-a-play-night-on-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/star-trek-online-hosts-a-play-night-on-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/star-trek-online-hosts-a-play-night-on-the-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The team for Star Trek Online has been working on cleaning up bugs, deploying new features, and generally getting the game prepped for the upcoming Season 1.2 patch, which promises a variety of additions and improvements to the game. In order to help facilitate the testing of new features -- and to enjoy getting into the mix with the players -- the development team is going to be hosting one of Cryptic's frequent play nights with the general populace.

Unlike normal, this night isn't taking place on the live servers, but on the Tribble test server. From 4-6 PM PST (7-9 PM EST) on May 24th, the developers will be on the server, taking part in PvE content as well as on the PvP maps. Whether you want the developers to hear about your great idea for new task forces, want to tell them how much you want the game to have new content, or are just still recovering from the series finale of Lost, any player with an active Star Trek Online account is encouraged to mix it up with the development team.

MassivelyStar Trek Online hosts a play night on the test server originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 23 May 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosplay-nightpublic-testst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotesttest-servertrek-onlinetribbleSun, 23 May 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth pushes Patch 1.4 onto the test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/fallen-earth-pushes-patch-1-4-onto-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/fallen-earth-pushes-patch-1-4-onto-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/fallen-earth-pushes-patch-1-4-onto-the-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's an exciting time living in the wastelands of Fallen Earth these days. Not only have clones been graced with a new dueling system and the first stage of a town revamp, there's now the opportunity to have a mangy flea-covered slobbering creature follow you around placidly. (Which isn't all that unusual if you're friends with a CHOTA, but bear with us.) There are still bigger things on the horizon, however, and Patch 1.4 promises to bring even more PvP and other violent goodness. While it isn't live quite yet, it has gone live on the game's public test server.

Aside from the PvP matchups of Blood Sport, the update promises new mounts such as the Blight Wolf, new crafting recipes, and expanded war between clans. To help facilitate testing (which is implied to be on deck for "the next couple of weeks"), the official forums are posting both specific systems to be tested and large-scale testing events. While this doesn't mean we'll certainly be seeing Fallen Earth's next major content patch in a couple weeks, it's certainly a strong argument in that direction... and if you can't wait another minute, you can hop on the test server and see it now.

MassivelyFallen Earth pushes Patch 1.4 onto the test server originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>additionscontent-patchfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfefe-patch-1.4icarusicarus-studiosmountspetspreviewspublic-testpvprevampstesttest-serverupcomingupdatesWed, 21 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Help develop Tyrannis on the EVE test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/help-develop-tyrannis-on-the-eve-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/help-develop-tyrannis-on-the-eve-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/help-develop-tyrannis-on-the-eve-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EVE Online's Tyrannis expansion is due for release in a few months and players are looking forward to the new planetary interaction mechanic. Although the core ideas for the expansion have been settled on, many of the game mechanics have not been fully fleshed out. In an effort to get players involved, CCP have begun releasing early prototypes of the planetary interaction feature on the EVE test server Singularity. It's important to keep in mind that nothing on the test server is final. As a studio that makes heavy use of agile development strategies, CCP will use feedback from players on the test server to incrementally refine the design.

Dierdra Val, director of EVE University, has been on the test server to bring the EVE community details of CCP's current designs. They've released a video showing the process of installing structures on a planet and setting up factory links. So far, planetary interaction seems very similar to the moon mining and reacting industry but it's definitely a much more active process. While moon mining operations produce an endless supply of moon minerals at a steady rate, planet-based material deposits will vary in total size and yield per cycle. The materials produced on planets are also different than those produced by existing industrial operations.

Skip past the cut to watch EVE University's test-server planetary interaction tutorial or set up a test server client and try it out for yourself.

Continue reading Help develop Tyrannis on the EVE test server

MassivelyHelp develop Tyrannis on the EVE test server originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdierdra-vaaleveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineeve-unieve-universityfeedbackplanetary interbredplanetary-interactionPlanetaryInterbredsingularitytesttest-servertyrannisvideoyoutubeWed, 17 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tales of Fantasy set to begin alpha]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/tales-of-fantasy-set-to-begin-alpha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/tales-of-fantasy-set-to-begin-alpha/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/tales-of-fantasy-set-to-begin-alpha/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Things are liable to get busy in the Tales of Fantasy community, because starting on March 10th the upcoming free-to-play MMO will be entering its alpha phase. IGG has already invited established guilds to jump into the Alpha and have at it, but will be sweetening the deal with copious rewards, too.

The actual reward is 2,000 Platinum given to the winning guild as well as special gift packages for each individual guild member. What's interesting is that these rewards are for the eventual closed beta, making them all slightly less permanent. Of course, we're pretty certain that most people will be pleased enough with getting into the alpha test to begin with. And really, that's a lot of in-game money to throw around. What do you want to bet guild leaders are already considering keeping it all to themselves?

MassivelyTales of Fantasy set to begin alpha originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabetaclosed-betacontestf2pfree-to-playguildguildsiggopen-betarewardtales-of-fantasytales-of-fantasy-gametales-of-fantasy-mmotesttofMon, 08 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion open beta client now available for download]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/aion-open-beta-client-now-available-for-download/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/aion-open-beta-client-now-available-for-download/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/aion-open-beta-client-now-available-for-download/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Aion's open beta is officially on the way so everybody will be able to sample the delights of Atreia between September 6th and 13th. Ahead of this, NCsoft has announced the availability of the Aion beta client. The client can now be downloaded from various corners of the internet, including FilePlanet and GamersHell, but the company has also announced they are making it available via BitTorrent.

Despite its shady reputation as the medium of choice for file-sharers and illegal downloads, BitTorrent itself is quite legal. Indeed it's a popular method of downloading files which has been embraced by numerous companies over the years. However, if you still want to use traditional methods, NCsoft has also announced that FilePlanet will be giving away a selection of open beta keys beginning Tuesday, September 1st. But anyone who has pre-ordered the game or won a full beta key from a competition just have to bid their time until the open beta begins.

MassivelyAion open beta client now available for download originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-launchaion-open-betaaion-patch-1.5aion-the-shadow-of-the-balaurbetabittorrentclientclosed-betafileplanetgamershellncsoftopen-betatesttorrentFri, 28 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR's Call to Arms live expansion wraps up with Land of the Dead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/wars-call-to-arms-live-expansion-wraps-up-with-land-of-the-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/wars-call-to-arms-live-expansion-wraps-up-with-land-of-the-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/wars-call-to-arms-live-expansion-wraps-up-with-land-of-the-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We first learned about Warhammer Online's Call to Arms live expansion back in late January 2009. After nearly six months of tests, live events, content updates, monster patches, and an ongoing story arc, the expansion will come to an end some time this month. They have saved the best for last of course and Call to Arms will be sent off in style with the release of the highly anticipated Land of the Dead mega-zone.

This week may be your last chance to test patch 1.3 before it goes live. This (last?) phase will focus on the Tomb Kings zone itself. That's right; testers will finally be unleashed upon the desert of Nehekhara! As a special reward, random testers will be awarded special manticore and griffon mounts akin to those gained from Mythic's recruit-a-friend program.

Many players agree the game has improved by leaps and bounds in the last six months and population has been holding steady quarter to quarter. This new mega-zone may prove to be the extra push that encourages new and past players to hop aboard the WAAAGH! train and give WAR a(nother) try. Interesting times are ahead.

MassivelyWAR's Call to Arms live expansion wraps up with Land of the Dead originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-to-armsexpansionland-of-the-deadlive-expansionmythic-entertainmentpublic-test-serverrvrtesttomb-kingswar-patch-1.3warhammer-onlineWed, 03 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Help stress test LotRO to win cool prizes and meet devs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/help-stress-test-lotro-to-win-cool-prizes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/help-stress-test-lotro-to-win-cool-prizes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/12/help-stress-test-lotro-to-win-cool-prizes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Isn't it funny? People are always clamoring to get into closed betas but once an MMO launches, test servers are usually pretty empty, even for special events. Turbine has decided to offer some great incentives for players to participate in their upcoming Lord of the Rings Online performance test and is giving away several high-powered computer accessories and making sure the devs are online to interact with.

Subscribers and even trial-account holders can log into the Bullroarer public test server between 9:00PM and 11:00PM Eastern on Thursday, May 14 and have a shot at winning:

  • Two (2) first prizes - AMD Phenom II X4 955 Black Edition CPU + OCZ Platinum 4GB DDR3 SDRAM
  • Five (5) second prizes - OCZ Vertex 60GB MLC Solid State SATA II Hard Drive
  • Ten (10) third prizes - ATI Radeon HD 4890 Video Card
  • Twenty (20) fourth prizes - Signed copy of The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria
In order to qualify, you must play the entire two hours of the event and be a resident of the United States. Disconnects will not disqualify you as long as you log back in immediately. You can download the Bullroarer client here. Good luck!

MassivelyHelp stress test LotRO to win cool prizes and meet devs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 May 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atibullroarercontestincentiveslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriaperformance-testplay-testprizestestturbineTue, 12 May 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Help World of Warcraft, come test Ulduar!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/help-world-of-warcraft-come-test-ulduar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/help-world-of-warcraft-come-test-ulduar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/help-world-of-warcraft-come-test-ulduar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Ok. Ulduar looks amazing. We really, really, really want to go raiding in the Halls of the Titans and learn more about the ancient city that resides in the Storm Peaks. But, sadly, we're relegated to waiting until patch 3.1 launches onto World of Warcraft's servers.

Or are we?

Our sister site, WoW Insider, got a hold of the test schedule of Ulduar raid bosses. Tonight is the first, Hodir, and he's already started (since 7 PM)! If you can't get on tonight (as some of our correspondents at WoW Insider are locked out) then no worries, as the Iron Council will be the boss for tomorrow night at 7. The full schedule is as follows:

On the North American test realms
Hodir - Thursday night, February 26, starting at 7pm EST/4pm PST.
Iron Council - Friday night, February 27, starting at 7pm EST/4pm PST

On the European test realms
Thorim - Friday night, February 27, starting at 7pm CET.
Freya - Friday night, February 28, starting at 7pm CET.

The full story is over at WoW Insider, so stop on by and check out how to find Hodir.

MassivelyHelp World of Warcraft, come test Ulduar! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablizzardbreakingpatch-3.1prttestulduarworld-of-warcraftwowwow-insiderThu, 26 Feb 2009 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Significant aggro changes on the way for EQII]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/significant-hate-changes-coming-to-eqii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/significant-hate-changes-coming-to-eqii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/significant-hate-changes-coming-to-eqii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

There's a fairly hefty set of changes to EverQuest II's hate/aggro system currently being ironed out on Test, and they aren't to everyone's liking. Due to the the complexity of the changes, developer Chris "Aeralik" Kozak has offered up a summary for players to wrap their heads around. We'll attempt to boil it down even more for you, at the cost of including some of the finer details.

The problem with the aggro system begins with the fact that hate has scaled linearly as the game has progressed, and damage has scaled exponentially with gear and new skills, making it hard for designated aggro-holders to keep control of mobs. One of the changes on Test has given taunts the chance to hit critically, just like damage spells, and there will be a base and normalized amount of threat from taunt abilities.

Continue reading Significant aggro changes on the way for EQII

MassivelySignificant aggro changes on the way for EQII originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeralikaggroberserkerbruiserchris-kozakeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifightersguardianhatemonkpaladinshadowknightsoesony-online-entertainmenttankingtankstesttest-serverthe-shadow-odysseythreatWed, 21 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes Issue 13 enters Closed Beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/city-of-heroes-issue-13-enters-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/city-of-heroes-issue-13-enters-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/city-of-heroes-issue-13-enters-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

City of Heroes Issue 13: Power and Responsibility has now been patched to the Test Server, where a small but dedicated group of people will be testing the hell out of it for a while before the gate is unlocked and Open Beta begins.

Leaking stuff from a Closed Beta is of course a major no-no, and we would not condone this from anyone. There is, however, a limited amount of access that anyone can get, simply by going through character creation. Although it's not possible to enter the game fully unless you're in the Closed Beta, costume pieces and new powersets can be examined in their current state. These are in testing, so it would be unwise to fixate on anything for now.

So far we've had a look at the Shields powerset, which is extremely cool and contains many surprises, and Pain Domination, which picks up the buffity-healy hero set Empathy, runs with it, and smashes its face into the wall repeatedly while laughing like some ice-girdled steel-toothed agony maiden from Hell's own surgical wing.

Continue reading City of Heroes Issue 13 enters Closed Beta

MassivelyCity of Heroes Issue 13 enters Closed Beta originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcox-issue-13ncsoftpain-dominationshieldstestThu, 09 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Shady camps' and more in latest Age of Conan Testlive patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/shady-camps-and-more-in-latest-age-of-conan-testlive-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/shady-camps-and-more-in-latest-age-of-conan-testlive-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/shady-camps-and-more-in-latest-age-of-conan-testlive-patch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Just as players' patience was starting to fray again, 'Patch 3' has arrived on the Age of Conan testlive server, and it is a chunky one - we counted at least 594 meg. Feel like browsing the patch notes? Make a nice cup of something, put your feet up, take your time... there are six pages to wade through.

Obviously we can't detail all of them here, but they range from the silly-but-desired 'Party people rejoice - proper drunkenness has been implemented!' to the necessary 'Fixed several causes of crashes and assert errors' to the trivial 'For decency's sake, Old Finn now has pants!'

But the most interesting new feature is the addition of Shady Camps as a complement to the new Age of Conan PvP notoriety system, as promised by Craig Morrison recently. There are several other new tweaks to the system that had us eager to see it go live. We've put them behind the cut.

Continue reading 'Shady camps' and more in latest Age of Conan Testlive patch

Massively'Shady camps' and more in latest Age of Conan Testlive patch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaoccraig-morrisonpvpshady-campstesttestliveWed, 01 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stargate Worlds beta "just a few weeks away"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/stargate-worlds-beta-just-a-few-weeks-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/stargate-worlds-beta-just-a-few-weeks-away/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/12/stargate-worlds-beta-just-a-few-weeks-away/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Cheyenne Mountain/FireSky's Stargate Worlds beta test plans seem to be on track. At the Leipzig Games Convention, Studio Head Dan Elggren told the press that the beta would start in "early September/October." If you were worried that wouldn't happen, it might be time to stop worrying and start signing up (if you haven't already); there's an announcement at the official website saying that the closed beta test is "just weeks away."

No further information was provided. We just got the above and a reminder to sign up. Since it's just the closed beta, though, you're not very likely to get in too terribly soon what with 200,000 applicants and all. That probably shouldn't upset you too much, since early closed beta tests tend to be about as playable as Ultima IX: Ascension.

Hardcore Stargate Worlds fans will of course ignore these words of wisdom, because that's the kind of crazy gamers can proudly be.

MassivelyStargate Worlds beta "just a few weeks away" originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testcheyenne-mountaincheyenne-mountain-entertainmentclosed-betacmefireskysgwstargatestargate-worldstesttestingFri, 12 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect World International beta test opens up to pretty much everyone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/perfect-world-international-beta-test-opens-up-to-pretty-much-ev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/perfect-world-international-beta-test-opens-up-to-pretty-much-ev/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/perfect-world-international-beta-test-opens-up-to-pretty-much-ev/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Perfect World International, the English-language version of the popular Chinese MMO of the same name sans "International" and plus a "2," has moved into its open beta testing phase. The beta test features two servers -- one PvE and one PvP -- and characters created in the testing period will be kept through the live launch of the game.

Like most Chinese games, PWI is a microtransaction-based MMO, but it was originally slated to be a subscription-based game. It got all the subscription-based-game-type triple-A graphics and game design treatment, so it should appeal to Western users more than most Eastern free-to-play games. At least, that's the company line.

Features include mounts, marriage, PvP territory wars, and pretty much every other staple, all in a Chinese mythology setting. It's been in closed beta testing for only a few weeks. There's no official word on the live date for the post-beta version yet.

[Via 1UP]

MassivelyPerfect World International beta test opens up to pretty much everyone originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chineseclosed-betaf2pfree-to-playlaunchmicrotransactionsmythologyopen-betaperfect-worldperfect-world-2perfect-world-iiperfect-world-internationalsubscriptionstestSun, 07 Sep 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Warhammer Online open beta test has begun]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/the-warhammer-online-open-beta-test-has-begun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/the-warhammer-online-open-beta-test-has-begun/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/the-warhammer-online-open-beta-test-has-begun/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mythic Entertainment just opened the virtual gates for the Warhammer Online open beta test. After fans spent half the morning expressing their impatience and Rickrolling one another on the game's various forums, the log in program/patcher suddenly stopped telling everyone they didn't belong and said, "Come on in and play!" Well, for most people anyway. It turns out that some folks still can't log in, but be patient; your time will surely come.

We're sure you can expect massive lag and overcrowding if you try to play today (or probably at any point in the open beta, really) but if you're willing to weather such tribulations, then by all means, grab your own Warhamma' and log the hell in!

If the lag proves too much for you today, or if the servers just explode, feel free to continue reading our extensive coverage. Otherwise, we'll slay you, err, see you there!
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out all of our previous Warhammer Online features, and don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyThe Warhammer Online open beta test has begun originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabreakingbugscrowdedcrowdseaea-mythicfileplanetforumsgeneral-unrestlagmythicmythic-entertainmentopen-betaoverpopulationtestwarwarhammer-onlineSun, 07 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Tabula Rasa event brings the pain]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/new-tabula-rasa-event-brings-the-pain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/new-tabula-rasa-event-brings-the-pain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/new-tabula-rasa-event-brings-the-pain/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


When you get invited to an in-game event that consists of the word "pain", you know it has to be good. Kagasumi, one of Tabula Rasa's QA Testers, is looking to test the limits of high-level monster AI with an event called The Pain Train. This event will take place on the Public Test Server on Friday, August 22nd from 2pm to 4pm Central Time (-6 GMT) on the Palisades map.

As Kagasumi says, this event was created to test some very strong monsters against players to see how they fare. Apparently, he says he's been surprised at how players can always come out on top when they're up against large mobs of Bane. So Kagasumi simply wants to test the limits of player/monster combat balance, with your help. He promises lots of giveaway goodies, so even if the thought of high-level Thrax makes you wish you were back in Bootcamp, you'll want to show up and help out as much as you can.

MassivelyNew Tabula Rasa event brings the pain originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesncsoftpain-trainpublic-test-servertabula-rasatesttrThu, 21 Aug 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your Bartle quotient?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/the-daily-grind-whats-your-bartle-quotient/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/the-daily-grind-whats-your-bartle-quotient/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/the-daily-grind-whats-your-bartle-quotient/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Bartle Test of Gamer Psychology has long been a staple of the MUD and MMORPG community. We've ever mentioned it here a couple of times.

The Bartle Test (developed by -- you guessed it -- Richard Bartle) is a series of questions the answers to which result in the test-taker's Bartle Quotient. In your Bartle Quotient, you're told how closely you identify with each of four types of MMO gamer pychologies -- Achiever, Explorer, Killer, and Socializer. The final figure is a ranking -- from most dominant to least dominant -- of those types in your own gaming personality. For example, this blogger is an ESKA.

The test has been criticized over the years as an innacurate or insufficient measurement, but it's remained popular nonetheless. Take the test, and tell us where you stand. Do you feel it's accurate? If not, where did it go wrong?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your Bartle quotient? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achieverbartle-quotientbartle-testbartle-test-of-gamer-psychologybartle-typesexplorerkillerpersonalityquizrichard-bartlesocializertdgtestthe-daily-grindThu, 14 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan test server now open to public]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/age-of-conan-test-server-now-open-to-public/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/age-of-conan-test-server-now-open-to-public/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/age-of-conan-test-server-now-open-to-public/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


To our ever-lasting surprise and confusion, there always seems to be a significant number of players in any given game who are so eager to try out the latest patch that they're willing to spend their time on a test server testing content before it goes live. For a game like Tabula Rasa, with its monthly deployments, there's at least some logic in this. There's an advantage getting acquainted with tweaks before they go live. For a game like Age of Conan, with its current bi-weekly patch schedule, this isn't quite the case.

Still, one thing that's become clear over the past couple weeks is that Funcom could really benefit from a more rigorous testing process for their patches. As we discussed on Saturday, the old beta test servers are coming down in favor of a new public test server, or Testlive, as they're calling it. If you want to participate, simply follow this link to download the executable, point it to the directory where you have the game installed, select a destination directory, and let it do its thing. Once its installed, go into your destination folder, run ConanPatcher.exe and you've got it. They'll have vendors up in the coming days to allow you to buff up your characters to specific levels, which should speed up the testing process as well.

MassivelyAge of Conan test server now open to public originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocforumsfuncompatchestesttest-servertestlivetestlive-serverMon, 30 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online: play test factional warfare, June 4-6]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/eve-online-play-test-factional-warfare-june-4-6/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/eve-online-play-test-factional-warfare-june-4-6/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/eve-online-play-test-factional-warfare-june-4-6/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


CCP Games announced a new series of factional warfare playtests for EVE Online's imminent Empyrean Age expansion, and are seeking help from all available pilots in New Eden. EVE dev CCP Tanis stated that the first release candidate for the Empyrean Age is being put on the Singularity test server, and that CCP is now focusing its attention on the gameplay mechanics of the long-anticipated factional warfare system.

The playtest will focus on the offense and defense of capture points and the conquering of solar systems. Players will be divided into either Caldari or Gallente factions; each faction will have an offensive and defensive team. The ultimate goal is to capture as many systems as possible while preventing the opposing faction from gaining any territorial control. CCP developers and ISD will be on hand to answer questions and guide players.

When: June 4 to 6 (Wed., Thurs., Fri.) from 11:00 to 14:00 EVE time (GMT).
Where: Singularity test server
Why: "We really cannot stress how important your feedback is to us."
Another Why: Each day the players on the winning side will be given a stock of officer modules !! ... *dramatic pause*... on the test server only. (Sorry.) Also the player who submits the best bug report will be given maxed out skills on the test server.
How: Join the in-game channel "Faction Testing" for instructions.

CCP Tanis also reminds players that the latest Singularity test server patch is required to participate in the playtest. The patch should ONLY be applied to a second copy of the EVE client, and NOT the main client used for everyday play on the Tranquility server. That is, unless you'd prefer to call the test server "home" from now on. Further details can be found in the official announcement; EVE Online account login is required to access this information.

MassivelyEVE Online: play test factional warfare, June 4-6 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcaldaricapturecapture-pointcapture-pointsccpccp-gamesdevdev-blogdeveloperempyrean-ageeveeve-onlineeventexpansionexpansionsfactionfactional-warfarefeedbackgallentegame-mastergame-mechanicsgameplaygmgoalisdnew-edenpatchsci-fisingularitysisiterritorial-controlterritorytesttest-servertranquilityMon, 02 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Singularity's Empyrean Age begins Saturday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/singularitys-empyrean-age-begins-saturday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/singularitys-empyrean-age-begins-saturday/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/singularitys-empyrean-age-begins-saturday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

CCP will begin testing EVE Online's recently announced Emyprean Age expansion on the Singularity test server beginning this Saturday, the 17th of May. To celebrate the event, the dev team is hosting an event at 19:00 GMT. Everyone is invited to test the new features -- particularly Factional Warfare -- with the dev team.

There will be awards for achievements like "most kills" and "most bizarre bug found" once the dust has cleared. If you're an EVE subscriber, read the announcement for more details. If you want to jump right in, don't forget to download the patch and apply it to your client (not the installation with which you play on Tranquility, though!). Once you're all patched up and ready to go, log in on Saturday and join the chat channel "Faction Testing."

How often do you get the chance to blast the entire EVE dev team out of the skies? Sounds like fun.

MassivelySingularity's Empyrean Age begins Saturday originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsccpdevsemyprean-ageeveeve-onlineexpansionfaction-warfarefactional-warfarefactionspatchpvpsingularitytestThu, 15 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TR's Sniper class targeted for nerf]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/trs-sniper-class-targeted-for-nerf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/trs-sniper-class-targeted-for-nerf/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/trs-sniper-class-targeted-for-nerf/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


With patch 1.6 having sunk in a little bit over the weekend, ardent Tabula Rasa players are starting to emerge with some feedback from the new build on test. While the changes to experience modifiers were a welcome change for many people stuck in the pre-30 or pre-50 doldrums, one group we weren't expecting to hear griping were Snipers. We had been told that the Destination Games crew were working on the line of sight problems that had been largely hindering their long-distance damage, and the patch notes mentioned reworking their oft-bemoaned charge-up firing mechanic.

According to a number of players on Planet TR's Sniper forum, while Torqueshell rifles, the Snipers' tier-4 class-defining weapon, have seen a modest 25% increase in their rate of fire with the firing mechanic change, they've also experienced a massive 55% single-shot damage reduction as well. This coming at the same time when most other weapons experienced modest damage increases, usually around 17%. The sad consequence is that many Snipers will end up shirking their Torqueshell rifles for regular rifles or chainguns to maximize their damage, effectively making them a squishy Commando-wannabe. It's not too late though - this is why things go on test, so they can be fixed? Right? Right?

MassivelyTR's Sniper class targeted for nerf originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesnerfpatch-1.6ptssniperstabula-rasatesttorqueshell-riflestrMon, 10 Mar 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Entire guild Unhallowed Triad moved from EQ2 Test Server to live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/rumor-entire-guild-unhallowed-triad-moved-from-eq2-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/rumor-entire-guild-unhallowed-triad-moved-from-eq2-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/rumor-entire-guild-unhallowed-triad-moved-from-eq2-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


A thread on popular forums EQ2Flames is asserting that a guild from the EverQuest II Test Server, Unhallowed Triad, has been moved over to the live server Unrest. This is something that SOE had said would never happen, due to the doubled experience gain on Test making it unfair on live players. The poster also claims that there was a GM account in the guild that assisted them in killing things that they could not take down on their own, in order to obtain some of the best gear in the game.

Continue reading Rumor: Entire guild Unhallowed Triad moved from EQ2 Test Server to live

MassivelyRumor: Entire guild Unhallowed Triad moved from EQ2 Test Server to live originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Dec 2007 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingeq2eq2flameseqiigrimwelllivelive-serverrumorscandalsoesony-online-entertainmenttesttest-serverunhallowed-triadunrestThu, 13 Dec 2007 20:05:00 EST<![CDATA[The purpose of beta testing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/the-purpose-of-beta-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/the-purpose-of-beta-testing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/the-purpose-of-beta-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Anyway Games has some good thoughts up (I especially like that continuum in the title between "testing" and "fun") about what beta tests are really for these days. It seems you can't publish an MMO without having a beta test-- the world is so big and meant to support so many players that you not only need volunteer help for QA, but you have to have enough people to stress the servers, just in case.

But is it OK to invite players into a game that's not actually done yet? Richard Garriott blames TR's slow start on a poor beta reception, and I was one of those players who wasn't impressed with the early beta (although I don't know if the game has actually improved since then). I also have been playing the Pirates beta since a few weeks ago, and after playing it again yesterday afternoon, I was pretty astounded at how far the game has come just within a week or two of development. There is no question that the game I was playing a while ago was definitely unfinished compared to the game as it is now, and even though it's in open beta, there will undoubtedly be improvements before the game goes live.

So what's the purpose of a beta? Is it marketing for the game, or a massively multiplayer quality assurance session? Every developer has to decide for themselves, obviously-- there's no golden point at which the game is good enough to be played, but buggy enough to still be tested by the unwashed volunteers. The best you can ask for, at this point, is a development schedule that gives you a game strong enough to give a great experience while buggy, and a beta testing crowd interested enough to stick around and help you fix the bugs that are left.

MassivelyThe purpose of beta testing originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Dec 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbugsclosed-betamarketingopen-betapirates-of-the-burning-seaqatabula-rasatesttestersvolunteersFri, 07 Dec 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lineage 2 expansion out on test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/lineage-2-expansion-out-on-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/lineage-2-expansion-out-on-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/lineage-2-expansion-out-on-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you've been hanging out for Lineage 2's upcoming free expansion, The Kamael, then you may be interested to know that the content is available for testing, right now. Curse.com noticed that the game's public test server now includes the new content, so players can go and try out the Kamael and their not-suitable-for-flying single wing.

You will need to have an existing Lineage 2 account to be able to log in to the test server, and if you don't have the test client yet, it can be downloaded from Fileplanet. The news story on Curse.com includes a few links to the test server's forums, and a post on those forums that contains a list of testing notes for The Kamael, so if you're interested in giving it a try then be sure to check those out.

There is no officially confirmed release date for The Kamael just yet, so if you're really hankering to try it out, it would be better to jump in to the test than wait around and hope it comes out soon.

MassivelyLineage 2 expansion out on test server originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1st-thronebetachaotic-thronekamaelpublic-test-forumspublic-test-servertesttest-notestest-serverFri, 09 Nov 2007 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Zu Online alpha test goes live with 'big rewards']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/zu-online-alpha-test-goes-live-with-big-rewards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/zu-online-alpha-test-goes-live-with-big-rewards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/zu-online-alpha-test-goes-live-with-big-rewards/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Zu Online, a new, free fantasy MMO being developed by Onwind Digital and brought to the 'states by IGG, has entered its alpha test. Sporting a unique and surprisingly stylistic hand-drawn style, Zu is heavily-steeped in Chinese mythology, shirking the typical elves and orcs fare for a focus on Buddhist monastic tradition.

Their website, which is curiously hard to navigate and chock full of good old fashioned engrish, claims that "hundreds of thousands" of people applied to be part of the alpha, and only five hundred made it in. Those lucky few will get an added treat from Onwind and crew this weekend, as all alpha testers will receive a princely 30 gold!

And hey, for a free game, it sure is pretty. If they work on localization a little bit more, Zu Online could very well be a hit . We'll see.

MassivelyZu Online alpha test goes live with 'big rewards' originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Oct 2007 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphachinachineseengrishfreefreewarehand-drawnIGGOnwind-Digitaltestzu-onlineFri, 26 Oct 2007 14:02:00 EST