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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Betawatch: May 11 - 17, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/betawatch-may-11-17-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/betawatch-may-11-17-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/betawatch-may-11-17-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

But Iron Man 3, amirite?
Early access for Marvel Heroes is just around the corner, if you consider 11 days to be a corner. It'll be a chance for everyone to get started on the process of hitting the level cap... or at least getting halfway there before grinding dailies. Your mileage may vary. DUST 514 finally ended its testing earlier this week, meaning that you can go be obliterated by an orbital strike right now if you own a PS3.

Elsewhere in the testing world, Anno Online quietly went into open beta (keep an eye out for our own Beau Hindman's look at the game later this month). There are games preparing for a beta in the future, as well, and more information about popular titles still in beta. It's been a quiet week otherwise.

That doesn't mean there isn't a list past the break. There's always a list. As always, if you see something odd on there, feel free to let us know in the comments.

Continue reading Betawatch: May 11 - 17, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: May 11 - 17, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasanno-onlinebetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betadust-514featuredgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmarvel-heroesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 17 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons: WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/unicorn-poop-beer-cans-and-housing-dungeons-wildstars-jeremy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/unicorn-poop-beer-cans-and-housing-dungeons-wildstars-jeremy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/unicorn-poop-beer-cans-and-housing-dungeons-wildstars-jeremy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Unicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2
"This is going to be the best game most of us have built in our lives," Carbine Studios Executive Producer Jeremy Gaffney said bluntly.

The game in question, of course, is WildStar, and it represents Gaffney's 10th or so trip through the beta development chute on the way to release. There's an undeniable note of pride and calm confidence in his voice as he talks about the baby that's growing inside Carbine's womb right now, and he was definitely not shy in opening up about all of the decisions and work the team's made as WildStar heads into its second trimester... er, closed beta test.

Before that, however, Gaffney provided a recap of the first closed beta test. He said that it was pretty limited, with only 2,000 players testing out the lowbie Exile zones. The team moved some of the elder game content down in level so that people could test it out, and developers spent some time doing impromptu Q&A sessions with players in the field. As a result, Carbine is ready to shift over to the Dominion side and greatly expand the beta in size and content. Read on for the full scoop on what the next step will entail.

Continue reading Unicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons: WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2

MassivelyUnicorn poop, beer cans, and housing dungeons: WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney preps us for closed beta 2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addonsbetabeta-testbeta-testingcarbinecarbine-studioscb2closed-betaclosed-beta-2dominiondungeonfeaturedhousinghoustoninterviewinterviewsjeremy-gaffneymodsncsoftplayer-housingpreviewpreviewssandparksci-fantasysci-fitestingwildstarwsWed, 15 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: May 4 - 10, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/betawatch-may-4-10-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/betawatch-may-4-10-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/betawatch-may-4-10-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's really good, it is.
You don't need to read the rest of this column, folks. City of Steam goes into open beta in two hours, so there is no reason for you to be sitting here when you could be playing that. Oh, and Marvel Heroes is running one last open beta weekend. And UFO Online is also in open beta. Plus, Arcane Saga launched (or re-launched) its beta. There is too much stuff to play for you to be sitting around reading columns about betas. You've got your project right there.

Still here? You're really dedicated to that beta list, huh? Well, we appreciate that. And you can find it just past the break as always, and you can feel free to let us know if we missed anything down in the comments just as always. But seriously, you don't even need to close your browser for City of Steam. That's accessibility right there.

Continue reading Betawatch: May 4 - 10, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: May 4 - 10, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasarcane-sagabetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchcity-of-steamclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmarvel-heroesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingufo-onlineFri, 10 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/not-so-massively-moba-patch-week-star-citizen-hits-9-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/not-so-massively-moba-patch-week-star-citizen-hits-9-million/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/not-so-massively-moba-patch-week-star-citizen-hits-9-million/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset
This week is packed with MOBA news as almost every major title released a new patch. Infinite Crisis introduced new champions Poison Ivy and Gaslight Catwoman and announced that the game's closed beta will start in two days' time on May 8th. SMITE introduced new Norse god Fenrir the Unbound, and League of Legends released a champion spotlight on new Ice Witch champion Lissandra. Dota 2 also released new hero Elder Titan based on the original DotA hero Tauren Chieftain, and Heroes of Newerth released several months of balance changes at once in its colossal version 3.1 update.

Star Citizen celebrated hitting $9 million US in its ongoing crowdfunding campaign, and to celebrate, developers controversially gave all current backers free lifetime insurance on their ships. The title's success has also spurred EVE Online developer CCP Games to show off its own virtual reality dogfighter called EVR that uses the upcoming Oculus Rift headset.

Diablo III's first anniversary is just over a week away; details of any celebrations haven't yet been released. Developers confirmed that the PlayStation 4 version will not be getting mouse and keyboard support and that the PC version won't be getting support for analog controllers. For those of you up for some oldschool dungeon-crawling, Diablo II also announced that its ladder will be reset on May 14th this week and all players will start the game fresh again.

Continue reading Not So Massively: MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset

MassivelyNot So Massively: MOBA patch week, Star Citizen hits $9 million, and Diablo II ladder reset originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 May 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbetabeta-testbeta-testingblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcash-shopccpccp-gameschris-robertscompetitive-gamingconsoled3defense-of-the-ancientsdiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidotae-sporte-sportselder-titanesportesportseveeve-onlineevrexploitf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumgothic-fantasyhon-tourhontourice-witchinternet-spaceshipsladderladder-resetleagueleague-of-legendslissandralolmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmobamultiplayernewsnot-so-massivelynsmoculus-riftonline-multiplayeropinionpatch-1.0.8playstationplaystation-3playstation-4Playstation3premiumps4pvpriotriot-gamesroguelikeround-uprounduprpgsandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlinetauren-chieftaintestingtrailertrailersvideovideosvirtual-realitywitch-doctorMon, 06 May 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 27 - May 3, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/betawatch-april-27-may-3-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/betawatch-april-27-may-3-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/betawatch-april-27-may-3-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You get a week, then I'm calling your bluff.
So Neverwinter launched this week. Or it went into open beta. Or it did both. We've kind of got a Schrödinger's Launch going on here. You can read our first impressions of the game if you're curious about its overall quality regardless of whether it really launched or not. Lost Saga enjoyed a comparatively unambiguous launch, complete with new content compared to beta.

There's not a full open beta for Marvel Heroes yet, but you can still jump into the game this weekend in celebration of some new movie or another. Representing the other major superhero franchise is Infinite Crisis, which announced that the start of its closed beta testing will be on May 8th.

Oh, and there's the usual assortment of games in testing listed just past the cut. See something amiss? Feel free to let us know about it down in the comments.

Continue reading Betawatch: April 27 - May 3, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: April 27 - May 3, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinginfinite-crisislaunchlauncheslost-sagamarvel-heroesmassively-metaneverwinteropen-betarounduptestingFri, 03 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: A new era of soft launches]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/ask-massively-a-new-era-of-soft-launches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/ask-massively-a-new-era-of-soft-launches/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/ask-massively-a-new-era-of-soft-launches/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Neverwinter. It's blue.
Neverwinter soft launched this week. What's a soft launch? It's when a game really shouldn't be launching yet and knows it and yet has to launch anyway for reasons probably involving money. Soft launches are incredibly confusing to old school gamers who are used to a certain kind of testing and release cycle, the uncomplicated kind that involves, you know, some testing and a release. Soft launches make games writers uncomfortable too. Why won't your weird special snowflake of a game launch fit into our perfectly planned box?

Massively reader zmeul expressed his annoyance with us thusly: "I can't understand why some games get this 'soft launch' from you and others do not, even if the criteria are met."

It's a brave new world out there, zmeul!

Continue reading Ask Massively: A new era of soft launches

MassivelyAsk Massively: A new era of soft launches originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceadvice-columnask-massivelybetabrianna-royce-ask-massivelycrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedhumorlaunchlaunchesmassively-metametaneverwinteropen-betaopinionperfect-world-entertainmentpwesoft-launchstar-conflicttestingwar-thunderwarframeThu, 02 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Soapbox: My lore problem]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/the-soapbox-my-lore-problem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/the-soapbox-my-lore-problem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/the-soapbox-my-lore-problem/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
"In the distant forests of El'quen, a dark evil stirs. Marrowgore the Unhunter, imprisoned for a thousand years in Cauldron Lake by the Eye of Son'drak, has broken free. Now, he and his evil BoneSlurpers stage an all-out war on the United Provinces. You, a freshly christened hero known for valorous acts both on and off the battlefield, must take charge of the Sacred Axeblade of Loqtai, harness the power it contains, and send the Unhunter back to his watery prison.

"But first, can you get me nine wolf pelts?"

Continue reading The Soapbox: My lore problem

MassivelyThe Soapbox: My lore problem originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betacutsceneeditorialfeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesloremassively-metammo-loreop-edopen-betaopinionplotrantrantsroundupsoapboxstorystorytellingtestingthe-soapboxtropesTue, 30 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 20 - 26, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/betawatch-april-20-26-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/betawatch-april-20-26-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/betawatch-april-20-26-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The streets are alive with laughter. Also plague germs.
Do you want to build an entire functional city? How about a barely functional one? You can do either in Anno Online, which has launched its closed beta test this week. Lunaria Story has started its open beta, and Marvel Heroes is launching a big push to give away keys prior to its launch in June.

Long-time browser-based darling City of Steam scored a major coup by getting listed on Steam Greenlight this week, and the early access beta is starting on May 10th, ramping up to a full open beta not too long after that. Neverwinter founders are already getting to enjoy the game's early access to the open beta, which begins next week.

But there's more testing afoot always, and we've done our best to compile all of that into the list just past the cut. Notice something that we've missed? Feel free to let us know about it down in the comments.

Continue reading Betawatch: April 20 - 26, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: April 20 - 26, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 26 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar chronicles closed beta metrics and milestones]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/wildstar-chronicles-closed-beta-metrics-and-milestones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/wildstar-chronicles-closed-beta-metrics-and-milestones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/wildstar-chronicles-closed-beta-metrics-and-milestones/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

wildstar dev blog
Last night, WildStar's Jeremy Gaffney posted up a dev blog recapping the first days of the game's closed beta, which you are likely not in. We feel for you; we're not in either. Who is in? An Aurin by the name of Poptart, who became the first closed beta tester to make her way through character creation and set foot on Nexus. The first player-created UI mod, a friend-finding tool, was also whipped up within 24 hours. (Massively broke the news on how WildStar's modding system will work back in February.) And apparently, the Algoroc zone is a nasty place; it boasts four of the nine mobs most responsible for player death.

Gaffney offers up these metrics for humor, but he's actually serious business about data parsing and player feedback even as he wants the early invitees to enjoy themselves:
We're tracking almost everything that goes on in the game. Combat timings, level timings, movement, you name it. The players' actions matter to us. Betas aren't always fun per se (there's often a big difference between "playing" and "testing"), so we've tried hard to make sure the game is actually fun even in this, our very first round of external testing.
Tester feedback, he says, is funneled to straight to a rapid response team to deal with on a daily and weekly basis. And if testers don't submit that feedback? "One player actually found that some taxi drivers in a fit of generosity would give you money for flying to your destination instead of taking it and spent four hours riding back and forth," Gaffney admits. "We left him with 50 copper of the 14 gold he farmed as thanks for making us laugh."

MassivelyWildStar chronicles closed beta metrics and milestones originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testingcarbinecarbine-studiosclosed-betadev-blogJeremy-Gaffneymetricsncsoftpoptartsandparksci-fantasysci-fitestingwildstarwsThu, 18 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: April 6 - 12, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/betawatch-april-6-12-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/betawatch-april-6-12-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/betawatch-april-6-12-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

On the bright side, I'd barely have any time to play WildStar right now even if I were in the beta.
Have you eagerly anticipated the start of WildStar's beta testing? Good news for you, then -- it has started. The bad news is that odds are fairly good that you aren't in it, but at least now you can look on longingly from behind glass.

Of course, the beta news of the week hasn't just been about big names. Genia: Brain Storm is currently looking for beta testers interested in a game of wits, and Yitien is just what you've been looking for if you're looking for a high fantasy browser-based MMO. Neverwinter is gearing up for one of its last beta weekends before the open beta test at the end of the month.

Looking for more testing goodness? Take a look at the full list past the break. If you notice anything missing that's in testing, feel free to let us know about it down in the comments.

Continue reading Betawatch: April 6 - 12, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: April 6 - 12, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 12 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gloria Victis teases with more screenshots, talk of alpha two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/gloria-victis-teases-with-more-screenshots-talk-of-alpha-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/gloria-victis-teases-with-more-screenshots-talk-of-alpha-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/07/gloria-victis-teases-with-more-screenshots-talk-of-alpha-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Gloria Victis screenshot
Black Eye Games' brand-spanking-new MMO Gloria Vicitis is promising a lot; realistic weather effects, day and night cycles, and NPCs that don't just stand there are all on the game's agenda. Although an original attempt to crowdfund the game was unsuccessful, it looks as if the team isn't giving up as testing marches on. Only a small number of testers are currently in the pre-alpha test; test number two is apparently not far beyond the horizon. The developers are also opening up crowd-funding to increase server capacity for even more testers.

The studio is calling its game "paradigm breaking" and "realistic," which seem like pretty heavy words, but a new batch of pre-alpha screenshots does hint at its potential. What do you think?

Gallery: Gloria Victis pre-alpha screenshots

MassivelyGloria Victis teases with more screenshots, talk of alpha two originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabetablack-eye-gamescrowdfundingfacebookgalleriesgallerygloria-victiskickstarterpre-alphascreenshotscreenshotstesttestingSun, 07 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 20 - April 5, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/betawatch-march-20-april-5-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/betawatch-march-20-april-5-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/betawatch-march-20-april-5-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Runescape like you have never seen it before but not all that different from how you have played it before.
Runescape 3 is entering beta soon! Of course, it's less of a new game and more of an upgrade to the existing Runescape, which is a bit less enticing. Arcane Saga is also entering its closed beta on May 7th, but that too isn't a new game, simply a rework of the closed game Prius Online. Ecol Tactics is also entering its open beta, and it... wait, that one actually is a new game. Shame, we had a pattern going.

We also found out that purchasers of an Earthrise: First Impact Founder's Pack will have priority access to the relaunched game's beta to start at an unannounced time. Darkfall Unholy Wars will finally be wrapping up its beta and relaunching on the 16th, and Final Fantasy XIV is moving closer to its own relaunch with its second phase of beta testing.

Oh, yes, and there's a full list of betas past the break, as always. Feel free to let us know if there's something missing!

Continue reading Betawatch: March 20 - April 5, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: March 20 - April 5, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 05 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV shifts into second closed beta phase]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/final-fantasy-xiv-shifts-into-second-closed-beta-phase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/final-fantasy-xiv-shifts-into-second-closed-beta-phase/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/final-fantasy-xiv-shifts-into-second-closed-beta-phase/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Final Fantasy XIV shifts into second closed beta phase
Check out that fine-tuned Mog machine coming around the track! Why, it's Final Fantasy XIV, which has just shifted into its second closed beta phase and is sprinting toward the release of A Realm Reborn!

Square-Enix is running beta tests over weekends in April. The focus of phase 2 is on the city-state of Gridania, Gamepad support for the PC, Chocobo mounts, and full active time events. It's not too late to sign up for the beta, either.

When Final Fantasy XIV hits closed beta phase 3, the team will add in the PlayStation 3 version and a "huge amount" of additional content. Specific details and timing of phase 3 have yet to be announced.

[Source: Square-Enix press release]

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV shifts into second closed beta phase originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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I enjoyed the books, but I always wondered how someone could translate Otherland into a game. The answer was apparently not at all.
After a hard-hitting duo of conventions, it's inevitable that there would be some beta-based shakeups. The Aurora World has gone into open beta, Arena of Heroes is hosting an open beta weekend, and Defiance is looking at a full launch just around the corner. On the flip side, the long-in-testing Otherland might be out of the beta game altogether, as most of the developers for the game were unceremoniously laid off recently. Not good times for anyone.

Luckily, as I mentioned before, there has been a big pair of conventions that hit the ground running. PAX East 2013 and GDC 2013 have both featured plenty of information on games still in testing or waiting to start testing, so if you haven't already seen what Massively has out there for the cons... well, go read it.

Not slaking your thirst for a new game? Well, you can see what's actively testing just past the break with our full list. As always, if you see something missing or on there erroneously, let us know!

Continue reading Betawatch: March 23 - 29, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: March 23 - 29, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingthe-aurora-worldFri, 29 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chinese browser MMO Yitien launches alpha on March 29th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/chinese-browser-mmo-yitien-launches-alpha-on-march-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/chinese-browser-mmo-yitien-launches-alpha-on-march-29th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/chinese-browser-mmo-yitien-launches-alpha-on-march-29th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Yitien alpha artwork
R2Games will be bringing Yitien, a Chinese-themed MMORPG, to browsers starting on March 29th. The developers promise a variety of play, from turn-based battles and multi-player arenas to PvP events and a version of the ever-familiar rock, paper, scissors. In one event, players can sign up at a certain time and enter a zone that transforms every player into a yeti. There will be no way to distinguish players from NPC yetis, but points and treasure are earned as NPCs are defeated and player attacks are successfully repelled. Attacking other players, however, will award you no points.

Players will also participate in a simple board game, rolling dice and moving a number of spaces. The first player to reach a certain location on the board wins the game. Players landing on the same square will battle, while players who run into mysterious warriors will have to fight using rock, paper, scissors for the chance to win lucrative trinkets.

Already available in China, Yitien has accrued 20 million total registered players with an average of 500,000 users logged on at one time. (How many bots are involved with those numbers, we'll never know.) You can sign up now on the official site.

[Source: R2Games press release]

Gallery: Yitien screenshots

MassivelyChinese browser MMO Yitien launches alpha on March 29th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testalpha-testingbetabeta-testbeta-testingboardgamesbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-mmochinachinese-mmof2pfree-to-playftpgalleriesgalleryisometricminigamesr2gamesscreenshotscreenshotstestingyitienThu, 28 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-2013-hands-on-with-hearthstone-heroes-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft
Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft is a brand-spankin'-new online collectible card game from Blizzard, announced just yesterday here at PAX East 2013. And since I love you guys soooo much, I took the time to stand in line to take a look for myself. It certainly had nothing to do with the fact that I flock to CCGs like a moth to flame. No sirree.

Of course, this isn't your traditional MMO, so it's difficult to write a traditional review, especially considering I was able to play only a single match (which I won by a landslide, thank you very much), so instead I'm just going to give y'all a rundown of how the game plays and let you draw your own conclusions. Shuffle your cards, cut your decks, and read on for the skinny on Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft.

Continue reading PAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft

MassivelyPAX 2013: Hands-on with Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbetabeta-testbeta-testingblizzardblizzard-entertainmentccgcollectible-card-gameconconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumhands-onhearthstonehearthstone-heroes-of-warcraftheroes-of-warcraftjoystiqmassively-event-coveragemicrotransactionmicrotransactionspaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopremiumpreviewpreviewstcgtestingtrading-card-gamewarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 23 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2013: Red 5 on Firefall's new gaming TV channel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-red-5-on-firefalls-new-gaming-tv-channel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-red-5-on-firefalls-new-gaming-tv-channel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/23/pax-east-2013-red-5-on-firefalls-new-gaming-tv-channel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

PAX East 2013 Red 5 talks Firefall, and reveals a new gaming TV channel
Red 5 Studios' MMOFPS Firefall is probably familiar to the Massively family, but it presentation Friday at PAX East was a chance to get a look behind the curtain at how far it's come and how far it has to go during testing.

CEO Mark Kern and Lead Game Designer Scott Youngblood presented a little history of the game's development so far, with a look to the future. But if that's not enough to get you to gear up and plant a Thumper, maybe their announcement about a brand-new video channel devoted to everything and anything involving gaming will catch your interest.

Gallery: PAX East Firefall

Continue reading PAX East 2013: Red 5 on Firefall's new gaming TV channel

MassivelyPAX East 2013: Red 5 on Firefall's new gaming TV channel originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testalpha-testingbetabeta-testbeta-testingconconferenceconventioneventevent-coverageeventsexpof2pfeaturedfirefallfpsfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygame-changersinterviewinterviewsmark-kernmassively-event-coveragemmo-shooterorson-scott-cardpaxpax-2013pax-eastpax-east-2013penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsproject-cosplaypvpred-5red-5-studiosrise-of-the-indiessci-fiscott-youngbloodscreenshotscreenshotsshooterstage-5tbtestingthird-person-shooterthumperwarSat, 23 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 16 - 22, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/betawatch-march-16-22-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/betawatch-march-16-22-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/betawatch-march-16-22-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

This is actually a lot like Boston right now.
Warframe has opened its doors for everyone, and it's even added some new toys for anyone who decides to check it out. If you'd prefer to test something in your browser instead of downloading a client, you can get that too; just sign up for for the closed testing of Eldevin.

Of course, the eyes of most gamers are turned to Boston for this year's PAX East convention. Not that this has stopped some games from testing away, as Defiance has kicked off its final testing weekend before launch, and Neverwinter is running another weekend as well. DUST 514 players are also getting some love, as a new event is running for both the shooter and EVE Online.

Finally, we're sad to retire Grimlands from Betawatch this week, as gamigo has ceased development on the title.

There's a lot more going on in the beta space, as always. You can find a whole lot more games in the list past the break. Feel free to let us know if we missed anything.

Continue reading Betawatch: March 16 - 22, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: March 16 - 22, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 22 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Checking out the 44th Final Fantasy XIV producer's letter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/checking-out-the-44th-final-fantasy-xiv-producers-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/checking-out-the-44th-final-fantasy-xiv-producers-letter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/checking-out-the-44th-final-fantasy-xiv-producers-letter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A Final Fantasy XIV guildhest screenshot
Final Fantasy XIV has been ramping up to A Realm Reborn, the massive reboot that has fans excited and nervous at the same time. In the hopes of whetting fan appetites even further, Naoki Yoshida is letting players know just what's cooking via a new producer's letter. It turns out that gamepad users have reason to be excited for phase two beta testing.

It might be standing room only, though, as 100,000 testers have joined up so far. It's caused some issues on the servers but a weekend of tweaks to FATE-related performance issues might help loosen things up a bit. That is until phase two kicks in and even more testers are welcomed. After all, how else can you stress test a server? Phase two testing should begin in early April, so grab your controller and jump in if you can.

There's also news about phase three testing! Guildhests, which are based on behests from version 1.0, will welcome groups of players even from early levels. They are supposed to be a great way to party with friends before going out and tackling the big stuff.

MassivelyChecking out the 44th Final Fantasy XIV producer's letter originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-realm-rebornconsoleconsolesff14ff14-betaffxivFinal-Fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivnaoki-yoshidaproducers-lettersquareSquare-EnixtestingWed, 20 Mar 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: March 9 - 15, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/betawatch-march-9-15-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/betawatch-march-9-15-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/15/betawatch-march-9-15-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dragon-dragon-bo-bragon, banana-nana-fo-fragon.
If you can't get enough of dragons, you'll be happy to know that Dragon's Prophet will bring you all the dragons you could want when it starts closed beta next Tuesday. Seriously, it's like non-stop dragons. You can even check out the classes and starter areas now to get a little lead time on your upcoming dragon experience.

Dragons not so much your speed? You could always check out Scarlet Blade's current closed beta if you like women of improbable anatomy in ridiculous non-outfits. Or there's Gloria Victis' upcoming pre-alpha, although odds of getting in on that testing are rather low.

If none of the above tickles your fancy, you can always take a look at the full list of games we're keeping just past the break. As always, if a game has surreptitiously launched a cash shop without our being aware of it, feel free to let us know by mail or in the comments.

Continue reading Betawatch: March 9 - 15, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: March 9 - 15, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 15 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with Neverwinter's Control Wizard]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/hands-on-with-neverwinters-control-wizard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/hands-on-with-neverwinters-control-wizard/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/hands-on-with-neverwinters-control-wizard/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Handson with Neverwinter's Control Wizard
This past weekend was Neverwinter's second beta event, and with it came a number of new additions. The Foundry was open for business, the tutorial was expanded, the level cap was increased, and new zones were available to explore. Above all that was the availability of a fourth class over the first beta event's three: the Control Wizard.

Along with what seemed like the entire state of New Jersey, I rolled a Control Wizard to give Neverwinter's offensive magic user a test drive. The Wizard is a mixture of familiar fantasy aspects with a dash of unexpectedly awesome differences. So while I was casting the same-old elemental spells (all fantasy magic users seem to know only four elements due to a lack of imagination on behalf of the creators), I was also tossing in spells to mess with enemies and keep them off my back.

Here are my early hands-on impressions of the Control Wizard, a class that I'll definitely be playing at launch.

Continue reading Hands-on with Neverwinter's Control Wizard

MassivelyHands-on with Neverwinter's Control Wizard originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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I would call it the Ship-And-Pier World, but no one asked me.
Even when you think you know all there is to know about MMOs, you can still find surprises around every corner. Did you know about The Aurora World? Because it's now in closed beta. Did you know about Albion Online? Because it's entering closed beta later this month. So many things to learn.

Of course, sometimes you don't want novelty; you want to know more about familiar games. So perhaps you'd like a hands-on look at Defiance. Or perhaps you'd like to know more about Black Desert as the game seeks a Western publisher. And while ArcheAge has found a Western publisher, you might also like to read a few words of caution before getting too worked up.

Alternatively, it's possible you're just here for the list, which is past the break. If you notice something we've missed, feel free to let us know down in the comments!

Continue reading Betawatch: March 2 - 8, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: March 2 - 8, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 08 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: February 23 - March 1, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/betawatch-february-23-march-1-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/betawatch-february-23-march-1-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/betawatch-february-23-march-1-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I'm sure somebody thinks that's neat.
If you're one of those people who absolutely cannot wait to get their hands on The Elder Scrolls Online, you won't have to wait too much longer, as the game's first beta testing will apparently start toward the end of this month. The testing will consist of small and focused test weekends, but it's better than the current test schedule of "nothing."

Need something a bit more immediate? Kartuga has gone into closed beta, and Dragon Nest is in closed testing in Europe, but that closed portion means you can't necessarily jump right in. So you might just have to wait to try some games until PAX East, such as the anticipated Neverwinter. It'll be there with bells and large weapons on.

More beta information is in the list just past the cut. If you noticed something we missed, let us know in the comments.

Continue reading Betawatch: February 23 - March 1, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: February 23 - March 1, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 01 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/bugs-minerals-and-jet-boots-hands-on-with-firefalls-pve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/bugs-minerals-and-jet-boots-hands-on-with-firefalls-pve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/bugs-minerals-and-jet-boots-hands-on-with-firefalls-pve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Firefall Copacabana
As any fan of my streams can tell you, I am not awesome at video games. So when Massively asked me to take a look at Firefall, a twitch-heavy, free-to-play shooter developed by Red 5 Studios, it was only with trepidation that I accepted. Could I really find happiness in a world that relied on reflexes and skill more than clever spell rotations? Or would my incompetence make the game so frustrating that I would end up smashing my keyboard with my face?

After procrastinating for days and hoping that the project would vanish into the night (beta goblins or something), I finally sat down to check the game out. What I discovered is that Firefall is much more than a shooter; it is a vibrant universe packed with fun things to do, intriguing content to explore, and enough character customization to please even the most ardent of tweakers.

Gallery: Firefall battleframe design

Continue reading Bugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE

MassivelyBugs, minerals, and jet boots: Hands-on with Firefall's PvE originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingf2pfeaturedfirefallfpsfree-to-playfreemiumgalleriesgalleryhands-onmicrotransactionmicrotransactionsmmo-shooterpremiumpreviewpreviewspvpred-5red-5-studiossci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsshootertestingthird-person-shooterwarFri, 01 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jewel of the North: Impressions of Neverwinter to the level 30 cap]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/jewel-of-the-north-impressions-of-neverwinter-to-the-level-30-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/jewel-of-the-north-impressions-of-neverwinter-to-the-level-30-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/jewel-of-the-north-impressions-of-neverwinter-to-the-level-30-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

At least he died with dignity.
I've been stoked for Neverwinter ever since I first got my hands on a short demo of the game at PAX East a year or two back. The game's stylish, fast-paced combat hooked me, and I've always been particularly fond of the Forgotten Realms campaign setting, having spent a considerable amount of my teenage years in the original Neverwinter Nights and its many persistent worlds.

So of course when I got my hands on a Neverwinter beta key, I was thrilled and waited on pins and needles for the duration of the excruciatingly long download, courtesy of my lovely ISP. Once the game was finally installed on Friday, however, my weekend was consumed by my adventures in the Jewel of the North and its surrounding environs. Over the course of the weekend, I managed to take my Trickster Rogue to the level cap of 30 and experienced a fairly large amount of the available content. Spoiler alert: I liked it. But if you wanna know the details, listen up and I'll recount my tales for you.

Continue reading Jewel of the North: Impressions of Neverwinter to the level 30 cap

MassivelyJewel of the North: Impressions of Neverwinter to the level 30 cap originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobetabeta-testbeta-testingbeta-weekendcrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onimpressionimpressionslevel-capneverwinteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspwetestingtrickster-rogueMon, 25 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Across the country for Final Fantasy XIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/the-mog-log-across-the-country-for-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/the-mog-log-across-the-country-for-final-fantasy-xiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/the-mog-log-across-the-country-for-final-fantasy-xiv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Perhaps a redone header is in order with some of the new art. Let me think.
On Wednesday last week, I got on an airplane to head across the United States, starting a long and grueling trip. I spent half of Wednesday in the air, half of Thursday either on a train or in a car, and more or less all of Friday in the air once again returning home. All of this for about two hours of playing Final Fantasy XIV and a couple of interviews, in case you missed everything going live on Thursday.

Would I do it again? In an instant.

There's no way that I can repeat the amount of information that was in the roundup in a single column, so I'm not going to try. What I am going to do is talk about some of the other assorted bits and pieces of my Final Fantasy XIV experience and the surrounding events because it was truly something to see. I've been fairly skeptical up until this point, but I'll say that after sitting down and playing the beta version for a little while, I'm now a believer.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Across the country for Final Fantasy XIV

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Across the country for Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 23 Feb 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-realm-rebornbetaconsoleconsoleseventfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-version-2.0final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmedia-eventmog-logopinionpreview-eventsquaresquare-enixsquenixtestingthe-mog-logtravelSat, 23 Feb 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: February 16 - 22, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/betawatch-february-16-22-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/betawatch-february-16-22-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/betawatch-february-16-22-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I just used a FFXIV picture last week. The Aurora World deserved this week.
If you're looking forward to betas this week, time to hurry up and wait. Final Fantasy XIV's beta kicks off on Monday. The Aurora World isn't starting until March. Kartuga is waiting until February 27th. It's enough to throw you into despair at the thought that all you can do is play a game that's actually released.

Or you could play some of the games in open beta right now, like WarBane (which just entered a month-long open test) or Firefall's open beta event running through the weekend. But that just feels like a patch. We'll have to console ourselves until next week, which will see an explosion of new tests.

Those who don't want to wait that long can run down the list just past the break and sign up for a variety of tests. Keep your eyes peeled there -- if something has sneaked into launch without telling us, let us know, by all means.

Continue reading Betawatch: February 16 - 22, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: February 16 - 22, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 22 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV's Yoshida on PvP, chocobos, and mobile apps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/final-fantasy-xivs-yoshida-on-pvp-chocobos-and-mobile-apps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/final-fantasy-xivs-yoshida-on-pvp-chocobos-and-mobile-apps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/final-fantasy-xivs-yoshida-on-pvp-chocobos-and-mobile-apps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

I find it really ironic that this was one of the header photos the community team used.
The recent Final Fantasy XIV press event in San Francisco didn't just mean a chance to sit down and play the game amidst a lushly decorated room, although that was certainly on the agenda. It also meant a chance to ask director and producer Naoki Yoshida some questions about the game going forward and the plans for development down the line, diving beyond what we see and into more fine details about the game's mechanics.

While players will have access to a sizable chunk of the revamped game when the beta goes live on February 25th, there's still a lot that's hidden behind a veil of secrecy. Yoshida's answers help illuminate more details about what's going on in Final Fantasy XIV that might not be playable right now but will be in the near future. And even beyond the foundation that's visible from the beta, the promise of more expansion only adds to the game's overall quality.

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIV's Yoshida on PvP, chocobos, and mobile apps

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV's Yoshida on PvP, chocobos, and mobile apps originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-realm-rebornclassclassesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-version-2.0final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgatheringhousinginterviewinterviewsmobile-appmobile-functionalitypress-eventpreviewpreviewsprofessionspvprelaunchrevampsquaresquare-enixtest-phasestestingupcoming-systemsThu, 21 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic opens up test servers for patch 2.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/star-wars-the-old-republic-opens-up-test-servers-for-patch-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/star-wars-the-old-republic-opens-up-test-servers-for-patch-2-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/star-wars-the-old-republic-opens-up-test-servers-for-patch-2-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Every time you see someone frothing in the comments, take a shot. Oh, dear, now you have alcohol poisoning.
We've known for a while that the first digital expansion for Star Wars: The Old Republic will be releasing in the spring. Those waiting eagerly for Rise of the Hutt Cartel won't have too much longer to wait, it seems, as the expansion has been put up for testing on the game's public test server. This build includes gear, operations, and flashpoints for characters at the new level cap of 55, as well as the extra abilities and skills you'd expect from an extra five levels.

Notably not included is all of the content from Makeb that would allow players to actually reach level 55, which necessitates the addition of a special NPC to boost player levels and allow corresponding equipment unlocks. Still, if you're looking to take your main characters for a test drive in the post-expansion world, head over to the public test server and start seeing what changes with five more levels under your belt. And even if you'd rather wait for the release, this round of testing means the expansion can't be too far off.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic opens up test servers for patch 2.0 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsendgame-contentexpansionf2pfree-to-playgearhutt-cartellevel-caplevel-testinglucasartsnew-endgamenewspreviewrise-of-the-hutt-cartelrothcsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtortest-phasetest-servertestingthe-old-republictorWed, 20 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: February 9 - 15, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/betawatch-february-9-15-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/betawatch-february-9-15-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/betawatch-february-9-15-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Betawatch - FFXIV
While Final Fantasy XIV's director and producer Naoki Yoshida tours the world showing off the game to journalists, the game's fans can start slavering in anticipation of the first beta phase starting on February 25th. This is also the first phase that Legacy subscribers will get to take part in automatically, so if you're a long-term subscriber, you don't even need to worry about applying.

It's been a quiet beta week otherwise, unless you count the continued furor around Neverwinter's beta, which gets extensive coverage in our new column on the game. Hailan Rising has moved into open beta and is asking players to crash the beta servers, while Warframe is giving everyone a shot at the game this weekend via an open testing event.

Need more information? Missed a previous update? Just really love looking at lists of games in testing? There's just such a list past the break! You can let us know of anything we missed down in the comments.

Continue reading Betawatch: February 9 - 15, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: February 9 - 15, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 15 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Your first 15 minutes in Neverwinter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/your-first-15-minutes-in-neverwinter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/your-first-15-minutes-in-neverwinter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/your-first-15-minutes-in-neverwinter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Neverwinter Video
The first Neverwinter beta weekend is behind us, and while founders got a chance to hack their way through throngs of kobolds while exploring the Forgotten Realms, everyone else is no doubt still eager for more information. How does the combat feel? Do the powers follow the D&D rules closely? What kinds of attacks will I use as the various classes? How does the questing work?

These are all valid questions for any gamer still on the fence about Cryptic's inbound MMO. Neverwinter will be free-to-play at launch, but the only way to guarantee access to the next two beta weekend events is to shell out $60 or $200 for one of the Founder's packs.

In case you've missed our previous coverage, we've reported on the Cloak Tower dungeon, character creation (twice), and given our first impressions of the beta weekend. Today, we'll highlight the low-level powers and feats from all three available classes and the first 15 minutes of Neverwinter's gameplay. Hopefully, these videos will help you decide whether to wait for the game's launch or pony up some scratch to get into the next beta event.

Continue reading Your first 15 minutes in Neverwinter

MassivelyYour first 15 minutes in Neverwinter originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobetabeta-testbeta-testingcrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspwetestingtrailertrailersvideovideosTue, 12 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First impressions of Neverwinter's beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/first-impressions-of-neverwinter-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/first-impressions-of-neverwinter-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/first-impressions-of-neverwinter-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

First Impressions Neverwinter beta
Neverwinter is all the rage these days among MMO fans as the promise of a Fourth Edition D&D MMO in the Forgotten Realms setting has many old-school tabletop gamers jumping at the opportunity to get into the early testing stages. Thanks to last week's short press beta and this weekend's first early head-start glimpse, I was able to play through the game for a few days to get a feel for what to expect when the game launches later this year.

We first heard rumblings of a Neverwinter MMO in 2010 and got to see a live demo of it at E3 2011, just before Perfect World Entertainment took over Cryptic Studios. It was a very early build, but I was so excited to see a comprehensive drag-and-drop dungeon builder that seemed to work beautifully. Even during the demo, I was daydreaming about what I could do with this thing and the adventures I could have with my friends.

Of course, that all changed when Cryptic announced a complete overhaul to the original incarnation of the game. Luckily for us, this meant that the dungeon-creating RPG was turning into a full-fledged MMO.

Continue reading First impressions of Neverwinter's beta

MassivelyFirst impressions of Neverwinter's beta originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobetabeta-testbeta-testingcrypticcryptic-studiosdndf2pfantasyfeaturedfirst-impressionsfree-to-playhands-onneverwinterperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewpreviewspwetestingMon, 11 Feb 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: February 2 - 8, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/betawatch-february-2-8-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/betawatch-february-2-8-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/08/betawatch-february-2-8-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Just once I'd like to see a dragon that's glowing pink.
The Massively offices are abuzz over the Neverwinter beta running this weekend, from the new trailer to character creation to the Cloak Tower. There's also been a lot of discussion about thigh sliders, which at first sounded like sliders made from delectable chicken thigh meat, but it turns out that wasn't the case.

Beyond Neverwinter the beta front has been largely quiet, but the long-silent Legend of Edda is back in town and will kick off a closed beta weekend starting on February 14th next week. City of Steam also offered prospective players a bit of lore on the game's most immediately visible robot, which is a meaningful distinction in that game. And Defiance is running another beta weekend if you're in the mood for some running and gunning.

As always, you can jump past the break for the full list of games in testing. If you see something that we've missed, let us know in the comments down below. Also let us know if a game has slipped into offering a full cash shop despite being in beta or if you've actually heard anything about those thigh sliders.

Continue reading Betawatch: February 2 - 8, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: February 2 - 8, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 08 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WildStar reveals 2013 launch window, ambitious plans to make MMOs fun again]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/wildstar-reveals-2013-launch-window-ambitious-plans-to-make-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/wildstar-reveals-2013-launch-window-ambitious-plans-to-make-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/wildstar-reveals-2013-launch-window-ambitious-plans-to-make-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Check it, y'all. I'm the cutest thing this side of Dominion space. And I'm clothed.
WildStar has won Massively's "most anticipated MMO" award for the past two years, even edging out Guild Wars 2 for the title in 2012. No pressure or anything, right? Fortunately, the game won't have an opportunity to go for three: As announced in this morning's state of the game letter, we can expect WildStar's closed beta within the next three months and a launch at the end of 2013 if all goes well during the testing process.

To mark the occasion, Carbine Studios invited press to the equivalent of a video game debutante ball in San Francisco to see just how much the sci-fantasy sandpark MMO has grown since our last tour (nearly two years ago). I escaped my Editor-in-Chief cage to attend the event and play the game, interrogate the developers, and judge whether those anticipated awards were well-deserved after all. Enjoy the fruits of my sneak peek!
The 'biggest game on the planet': WildStar's boundless ambition
Who better to explain WildStar's philosophy and mechanics than Executive Producer Jeremy Gaffney? I give my impressions of his talk, the demo, and my hands-on, then ruminate on the game's iterations, innovations, and ambitions.
Slap a rocket on a pig: WildStar's modding and PGC community
Carbine's Troy Hewitt outlines WildStar's grand plans for a massive modding community, a UI developer tool for the masses, player advisory committees, and player-generated content. "Social" is clearly not just a buzz-word.
You can't take the sky from me: WildStar's Exiles
You can't dip into a setting like WildStar's without hearing the familiar chords of Firefly's opening theme; the game's two factions brazenly mimic that IP's rustic space cowboys and refined imperial aristocracy. Here's a look at the Exiles.

MassivelyWildStar reveals 2013 launch window, ambitious plans to make MMOs fun again originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingcarbinecarbine-studiosclosed-betafeaturedgalleriesgalleryhands-oninterviewinterviewslaunchncsoftpreviewpreviewssan-franciscosandparksci-fantasysci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstate-of-the-gametestingtrailertrailersvideovideoswildstarwsWed, 06 Feb 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Embers of Caerus newsletter updates beta development]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/embers-of-caerus-newsletter-updates-beta-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/embers-of-caerus-newsletter-updates-beta-development/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/embers-of-caerus-newsletter-updates-beta-development/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Embers of Caerus newsletter updates beta development
Embers of Caerus' second monthly newsletter is out, and the various department teams are eager to share their progress in it.

The landscaping is coming along, especially in regard to the quality of the trees. Populating the world is a different matter, however. The creatures have moved on to the modeling stage, and the concept team is also working hard at building up the city of Thaal. Lore, audio, and even ocean wave simulations are all in the works as well.

The newsletter also contains a link to the recent game livestreams as well as a note about Gamer Safety Week.

[Thanks to Flint for the tip!]

MassivelyEmbers of Caerus newsletter updates beta development originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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I'm too busy wondering what Malu is to worry too much about its origins.
Last week was the week for games hitting open beta, but this week has been much quieter on the testing front, with most of the news being about tests taking place in the future. Origins of Malu has finally dated its closed testing events for the end of March, and Neverwinter has its first closed testing weekend starting next week. You can also buy your way into that testing cycle if you're so inclined.

Path of Exile has already hit open beta, and as it turns out the transition went very well for the game. Defiance is gearing up for its second beta weekend starting February 8th, with the game launching on April 2nd. Last but not least, War Thunder has entered open beta if you don't have enough historical warplane simulators in your life.

Looking for more testing enjoyment? Skip on past the break to see the full list of games in testing, and let us know if anything is missing down in the comments.

Continue reading Betawatch: January 26 - February 1, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: January 26 - February 1, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 01 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Betawatch: January 19 - 25, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/betawatch-january-19-25-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/betawatch-january-19-25-2013/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/betawatch-january-19-25-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Why does SMITE get the header image? Because it's pretty.
This week has been a week for games to let down their hair, dress comfortably, and throw open the doors for open beta. SMITE, Path of Exile, DUST 514, and DK Online all threw open the doors to new waves of beta testers, while Firefall is hosting an open beta weekend event.

While The Elder Scrolls Online isn't actually in testing yet, the game is accepting signups for beta now. Meanwhile, City of Steam and the much anticipated ArcheAge have both picked up publishers, ensuring the release of the latter and helping the former reach a wider audience. Scarlet Blade has entered its closed beta or closed alpha test, depending on who you ask, featuring a variety of women fighting one another with large guns and outfits composed of electrical tape.

There's plenty more going on in the beta field, though, so you can check past the break for the full list. If you see something we may have missed or know of a game that crept into launch sneakily, let us know down in the comments.

Continue reading Betawatch: January 19 - 25, 2013

MassivelyBetawatch: January 19 - 25, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalphasbetabeta-testbeta-testingbetasbetawatchclosed-betafeaturedgame-testinglaunchlaunchesmassively-metaopen-betarounduptestingFri, 25 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DayZ standalone version jacks up graphics, player customization]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/dayz-standalone-version-jacks-up-graphics-player-customization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/dayz-standalone-version-jacks-up-graphics-player-customization/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/dayz-standalone-version-jacks-up-graphics-player-customization/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DayZ standalone version jacks up graphics, player customization
The race to a DayZ standalone version release is on, and creator Dean Hall is feeling excited and confident about the progress being made. Hall posted a list of improvements that the team is currently working on, from graphics to customization, and gave an update regarding the testing process.

DayZ standalone's graphics are clearly improved from the ARMA II-modded version, and Hall includes side-by-side comparison photos of a town to show just how big of a difference the new engine makes. He said that the team is working on vehicle, character, and weapon customizations, although players will find that the real avatar customization will come while engaging in the game proper.

One notable entry on Hall's list is the fact that the team is building the servers to be "MMO-like" so that hacking and cheating will be markedly more difficult. He also said that while external testers haven't been invited into the beta yet, this will happen once the full server/client architecture is completed.

MassivelyDayZ standalone version jacks up graphics, player customization originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armaarma-iibetabeta-testingcustomizationday-zdayzdayz-sadayz-standalonedean-halldelaysdev-diarydisease-trackinggraphicshammerpointhammerpoint-interactiveinventory-managementitemredditsaserverserver-architecturestandalonestandalone-versiontestingupdateupdate-letterFri, 25 Jan 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with DUST 514 on the cusp of open beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/hands-on-with-dust-514-on-the-cusp-of-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/hands-on-with-dust-514-on-the-cusp-of-open-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/22/hands-on-with-dust-514-on-the-cusp-of-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DUST 514
Less than a week before DUST 514's January 22nd open beta launch, CCP invited Massively and other publications to attend an orbital bombardment event in San Francisco. We've been regularly reporting on the progress of the orbital bombardment system, but this time we witnessed the process in action. We also got a preview of the larger implications and long-term expectations of metagame elements that will exist between DUST and its sibling sandbox, EVE Online.

Continue reading Hands-on with DUST 514 on the cusp of open beta

MassivelyHands-on with DUST 514 on the cusp of open beta originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testingbrandon-laurinoCCPccp-gamesconsolecouncil-of-stellar-managementcsmDustdust-514economyEveeve-onlineeventevent-coveragefeaturedfpshands-oniskmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3previewpreviewsps3sandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsshootertestingTue, 22 Jan 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Click-click-click: Massively's double-dose of Path of Exile impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/click-click-click-massivelys-double-dose-of-path-of-exile-impr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/click-click-click-massivelys-double-dose-of-path-of-exile-impr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/click-click-click-massivelys-double-dose-of-path-of-exile-impr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Path of Exile
New Zealand-based Grinding Gear Games has a challenge ahead of it: to convince a jaded gaming audience that its online action RPG Path of Exile can be more than just another Diablo III clone. Our Not So Massively crew has been following the game with great interest, zeroing in on its generously sprawling skill tree and item-customization systems in particular. And this Wednesday will see the launch of open beta, leaving only one question left to answer: click-click-click?

Well, maybe a few other questions too, like how does it play and is it worth my time? To get some first-hand experience with the latest edition of the game, Massively sent two freelancers -- Gavin Townsley and Jeffery Wright -- to two different Path of Exile developer events last week, one in San Francisco and the other in Los Angeles. Which city won in the quest for the coolest demo? You'll just have to read both to find out.

GAVIN JEFFERY

MassivelyClick-click-click: Massively's double-dose of Path of Exile impressions originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobetabeta-testbeta-testingdemodiabloeventevent-coverageeventsf2pfantasyfree-to-playfreelancersgrinding-geargrinding-gear-gameshands-onpath-of-exilepoepreviewpreviewsrogueliketestingSat, 19 Jan 2013 12:00:00 EST