Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Most significant MMO stories of 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/the-perfect-ten-most-significant-mmo-stories-of-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/the-perfect-ten-most-significant-mmo-stories-of-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/the-perfect-ten-most-significant-mmo-stories-of-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
2011 was an odd duck of a year for MMO news. A huge chunk of the year felt devoid of significant releases, but that was mitigated somewhat by the major launches of RIFT and Star Wars: The Old Republic. Titles got shoved back to 2012 or beyond, MMOs that we thought never would go free-to-play did, and the industry continually surprised us with revelations, ideas, and controversy.

So in my last Perfect Ten of 2011, I put together the 10 most significant MMO stories of the year. Ten seems like an awfully small number for such a great big field, so I had the rest of the staff members chime in with their nominations just to make sure I wasn't too off-base with any of these.

It was a whopper of a year, and Massively was there for all of it -- the ups, the downs, the queues, and the QQs. It's time to wrap it up with a pretty bow and dedicate it to the history museum!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Most significant MMO stories of 2011

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Most significant MMO stories of 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112012aionataribiowareccpccp-gameschampions-onlinecity-of-heroescrypticcryptic-studiosdaocdark-age-of-camelotdc-universe-onlinedcuoeve-onlineeverquesteverquest-iif2pfallen-earthfeaturedfree-to-playglobal-agendajagexkung-fu-pandaleague-of-legendslistlistslucasartsmists-of-pandariamonoclegatemythicpandaperfect-tenperfect-worldriftrunescapesoesonysony-hacksony-online-entertainmentstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-the-old-republicswgswtorthe-agencythe-perfect-tentriontrion-worldswarhammer-onlineworld-of-darknessworld-of-warcraftwrath-of-heroesThu, 29 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Surprisingly Commando-free edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/the-mmo-report-surprisingly-commando-free-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/the-mmo-report-surprisingly-commando-free-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/the-mmo-report-surprisingly-commando-free-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's the end of the week, and you know what that means! Not only do we get to ramp up to enjoy a weekend full of gaming, but it's also time for the latest edition of The MMO Report. This week Casey takes a moment to look at World of Warcraft's April Fools' Day prank and tackles the discussion of DPS players paying tanks to tag along so they can get into instance groups faster. On a more somber note, Casey notes the layoffs at Sony Online Entertainment, which resulted in the shuttering of three studios and cancellation of The Agency; he also mentions Square-Enix's games coming back online after the recent tsunami in Japan. Also noted is the upcoming Mortal Online: Dawn expansion, which should offer even more gritty, naked PvP fun for all.

From there, it's all silliness in Uncle Casey's Mailbag -- complete with some RIFT vs. WoW snaps, yet another edition of strange Schreiner shoops, and more silliness. We're also treated to a quick aside that reveals Casey has awesome taste in music -- much like our own. As always, you can check out this week's episode of The MMO Report tucked behind the break for your sanitary protection or over on the G4TV site every Thursday.

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Surprisingly Commando-free edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-fools-2011blizzard-entertainmentcasey-schreinerdawnff11ff14final-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivhumorlayoffsmortal-onlinequeue-jumpingsoesony-online-entertainmentsquare-enixtank-pimpingthe-agencythe-mmo-reportvideoworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 08 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Online Entertainment confirms layoffs, studio closings [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/sony-online-entertainment-confirms-layoffs-studio-closings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/sony-online-entertainment-confirms-layoffs-studio-closings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/sony-online-entertainment-confirms-layoffs-studio-closings/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sony Online Entertainment has confirmed the rumors that have been circulating since last night in a press release. The company is closing several offices, laying off staff, and discontinuing production of The Agency:

"As part of a strategic decision to reduce costs and streamline its global workforce, SOE announced today that it will eliminate 205 positions and close its Denver, Seattle and Tucson studios. As part of this restructuring, SOE is discontinuing production of The Agency so it can focus development resources on delivering two new MMOs based on its renowned PlanetSide and EverQuest properties, while also maintaining its current portfolio of online games. All possible steps are being taken to ensure team members affected by the transition are treated with appropriate concern.

"This strategic decision will have no impact on SOE's current portfolio of live games; additionally SOE will transition development efforts for the Denver and Tucson studios' suite of products to its San Diego headquarters. This strategic alignment of development resources better positions SOE to remain a global leader in online gaming and deliver on its promise of creating entertaining games for players of all ages, and servicing the 20 million players that visited SOE servers in just the past year."

Massively wishes the best of luck to all those affected by this situation.

[Update: Good news for fans of specific SOE games. SOE's John Smedley has told Planetside-Universe.com that "PlanetSide Next is getting more resources and will be out a little later in the year, but [SOE is] pulling out all the stops to make it great." An official post on the Vanguard forums notes that "there are no plans to sunset the world of Telon so long as its citizens continue to dwell in such sustainable numbers." Likewise, EverQuest players have been told that "EverQuest is not going anywhere." We'll keep you updated as we hear more.]

MassivelySony Online Entertainment confirms layoffs, studio closings [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakinglayoffssoesonySony-Online-Entertainmentsony-online-entertainment-seattlethe-agencyThu, 31 Mar 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: SOE to close The Agency studio]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/rumor-soe-to-close-the-agency-studio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/rumor-soe-to-close-the-agency-studio/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/rumor-soe-to-close-the-agency-studio/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Rumors have been flying since yesterday afternoon that it's the end of the line for The Agency's studio. George Broussard, one of the minds behind the Duke Nukem games, made several announcements on Twitter last night that the studio will be closing today:
Word that Sony Online Entertainment Seattle is having layoffs and that studio closure is possible.

To be more clear, the layoffs may be SOE wide and not just limited to Seattle. So, Austin, San Diego, etc...

SOE Seattle and other studios (Denver is rumored) will be closed tomorrow. Good luck to all impacted.
In addition, Kotaku is reporting that these layoffs could affect nearly one-third of SOE's total staff. Sony Online Entertainment has not released any statement or announcement to confirm this, so it's uncertain whether Broussard has inside information or is merely getting a jump on April Fool's Day. We'll be watching for official word back from SOE, so keep your eye on Massively for more.

MassivelyRumor: SOE to close The Agency studio originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>george-broussardlayoffsrumorsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsony-online-entertainment-seattlethe-agencyThu, 31 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE's Smedley says MMO copycats incoming, drops hints on PlanetSide Next release]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/soes-smedley-says-mmo-copycats-incoming-drops-hints-on-planets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/soes-smedley-says-mmo-copycats-incoming-drops-hints-on-planets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/soes-smedley-says-mmo-copycats-incoming-drops-hints-on-planets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Big things are happening at SOE these days, and whether you're talking about the newly minted DC Universe Online or the company's PlanetSide followup and spy-centric The Agency, it's an exciting time to be a fan. Eurogamer brings us a bit of info regarding potential release windows for both PlanetSide Next and The Agency, and the former looks to be gracing our desktops much sooner than we expected given the general lack of information to date.

"We're looking at late first quarter, early second quarter [2011]," says SOE head honcho John Smedley in regard to the long-awaited PlanetSide sequel. Players will have to wait a bit longer to get their espionage fix, as The Agency is still slated to arrive "late this year."

Why so long? It boils down to SOE's desire to differentiate itself from the competition. "There's some stuff coming out in the next two or three months, MMO-wise, and a lot of it is generic copycats of other games," Smedley tells Eurogamer. He also talks a bit about the impending arrival of Free Realms on the Playstation 3, intimating that the free-to-play title will spread its console wings in early February.

MassivelySOE's Smedley says MMO copycats incoming, drops hints on PlanetSide Next release originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eurogamerf2pfree-realmsfree-to-playinterviewjohn-smedleyplanetsideplanetside-2planetside-nextrelease-datesrelease-windowssci-fishootersoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-agencyMon, 17 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE's The Agency delayed until late 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/soes-the-agency-delayed-until-late-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/soes-the-agency-delayed-until-late-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/soes-the-agency-delayed-until-late-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Whatever happened to The Agency? Inquiring minds want to know, and since Sony Online Entertainment's internal memos haven't been given the WikiLeaks treatment, we'll have to take company president John Smedley at his word. "There was a moment in time in our company where we looked at our own stuff with a clear eye and saw we have to do better," Smedley told Kotaku in a recent interview. Translation: it ain't ready 'til it's ready.

While the spy MMO's launch would seem to be quite a ways off, fans should be glad to hear that it hasn't been shelved entirely. We haven't seen hide nor hair of the title since E3 2010, but hopefully the extra time will serve to boost the game's stock in the same vein as SOE's other upcoming MMO. DC Universe, originally scheduled to launch last November, has apparently benefited from the extra test cycles if the scuttlebutt surrounding yesterday's NDA-drop is to be believed.

MassivelySOE's The Agency delayed until late 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaysjohn-smedleyjoystiqkotakushootersoesoe-seattleSony-Online-Entertainmentspyspy-mmothe-agencyTue, 07 Dec 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE layoffs detailed, EQII and Vanguard affected]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/soe-layoffs-detailed-eqii-and-vanguard-affected/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/soe-layoffs-detailed-eqii-and-vanguard-affected/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/soe-layoffs-detailed-eqii-and-vanguard-affected/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Layoffs in any industry are never pleasant, and in a smallish community like that of the professional game developer, they can be even more trying. As we reported yesterday, Sony Online Entertainment recently announced the decision to serve 35 employees with their walking papers, and speculation has run rampant in the absence of official information.

Two of the developers now looking for work checked in on the EQ2Flames forum to confirm the news and thank the community for their support. SOE's big-budget fantasy titles look to be the most affected by the moves. EverQuest II loses Brett "Timetravelling" Scheinert, responsible for various raid designs on the Sentinel's Fate expansion. Rumored Vanguard losses include William "Wigin" Bidermann and Jason "Ikik" Weimann, as well as Joel "Raijinn" Sasaki, the game's community manager.

Finally, Steve "Saavedra" Kramer, a former EQII designer and most recently working on The Agency, was also let go. SOE also terminated two as-yet unnamed marketing employees.

[Update #2: While we now have confirmation that Jason "Ikik" Weimann was not among those let go (as originally rumored), we're still attempting to clarify the rumored departure of the other Vanguard dev. Joel "Raijinn" Sasaki's departure has been confirmed as well. We'll update the post as soon as we receive additional info.]

MassivelySOE layoffs detailed, EQII and Vanguard affected originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingEQ2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iilayoffsmmo-industryrumorrumorssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-agencyvanguardFri, 16 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE suffers cutbacks as 35 employees are laid off]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/soe-suffers-cutbacks-as-35-employees-are-laid-off/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/soe-suffers-cutbacks-as-35-employees-are-laid-off/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/soe-suffers-cutbacks-as-35-employees-are-laid-off/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Four percent doesn't sound like a lot, but when it comes to Sony Online Entertainment, it represents nearly three dozen employees who no longer have a job. G4 reports that the company has let 35 people go from its full-time workforce in an effort to "better align the company's resources against areas of growth that meet consumer demand in today's online market as well as improve operational efficiency."

The company is being tight-lipped as to the specifics of the cuts, including who was let go and from which development teams. This may come as a surprise to some, especially when you consider that SOE is riding high off of its Free Realms mega-success and is poised to launch several new titles including The Agency, DC Universe Online and Clone Wars Adventures. Hopefully we'll hear more details soon, but in the meantime you can read the full announcement over at G4.

MassivelySOE suffers cutbacks as 35 employees are laid off originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Jul 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingclone-wars-adventurescutbackscwadc-universe-onlinedcuofree-realmsg4laid-offlay-offspink-slipssoesonysony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyThu, 15 Jul 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This week on The MMO Report]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

You may remember last week's MMO Report being part one of an epic two-part episode. Crazily enough, this week brings us part two, and it's back to the Los Angeles convention center for more of Casey Schreiner and his E3 interview shenanigans.

This week's show features interviews with Steve Garvin and Lance Robertson, lead designer and executive producer, respectively, on Jumpgate Evolution, Jason Robar, co-founder of Amazing Society and part of the braintrust behind Marvel Superhero Squad Online, Rory McGuire, lead designer on The Agency, and Sony Online Entertainment's Chris Cao, game director for DC Universe Online.

"You pick up that controller or that keyboard and you're literally punching dudes in the face; you're not waiting to take a turn. This isn't an MMO that's dressed up or sped up, it's one that's on crack. It is action all the time," Cao says, when asked how the game compares to previous superhero MMOs.

Check out all the MMO Report E3 action at G4TV or after the jump.

Continue reading This week on The MMO Report

MassivelyThis week on The MMO Report originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazing-societycasey-schreinerdc-universe-onlinegazillionjumpgate-evolutionsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-agencythe-mmo-reportFri, 02 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Your complete Massively coverage roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/e3-2010-your-complete-massively-coverage-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/e3-2010-your-complete-massively-coverage-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/e3-2010-your-complete-massively-coverage-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The 2010 edition of the gaming nirvana known as E3 has come and gone, and Massively was there to bring you three days of exclusives, firsts, and hands-on impressions for all your favorite MMORPG titles, studios, and developers. This year's Expo saw plenty of news and announcements regarding highly anticipated games, as well as plenty of information on assorted titles large and small.

We thought it best to collate our coverage into a complete and concise roundup post for your viewing pleasure, so read along after the cut to make sure you didn't miss anything. You can also check out all of our E3 galleries along the way.

Continue reading E3 2010: Your complete Massively coverage roundup

MassivelyE3 2010: Your complete Massively coverage roundup originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabiowareblack-prophecyClone-Wars-Adventuresdc-universe-onlinedragon-neste3-2010en-masseen-masse-entertainmentfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xivforsaken-worldglobal-agendajumpgate-evolutionLEGO-Universelord-of-the-rings-onlinemassively-event-coveragemassively-hands-onmassively-interviewsmight-and-magicmmo-industryNeed-for-Speednew-titlesnexonrift-planes-of-telararoundupsoestar-wars-the-old-republicswordsman-onlinetaikodomteratera-onlinethe-agencyvindictuswar40kwarhammer-40kMon, 21 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your E3 highlight?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Whew! This past week has been a rollercoaster of craziness, a carousel of attractions and a mirror maze of sights from E3. We certainly hope you've enjoyed the coverage here at Massively, from interviews to exclusive peeks to mind-snapping trailers.

As we all continue to sift through the mountains of E3 information, we'd love to know what you consider to be the expo's highlight, your own personal "Best of Show" award. Was it the brand-new trailer of the previously hidden Warhammer 40k: Dark Millennium Online? The exceedingly awesome new SWTOR cinematic? The in-depth look into DC Universe Online? Or perhaps you're a Marvel fanboy and Super Hero Squad Online's gotten you revved up? Could it be the exciting conversations with Final Fantasy XIV's devs? The Agency's PvP side or LotRO's brand-new zone? Or perhaps you found yourself charmed by one of the smaller titles, such as Forsaken World, Taikodom, Swordsman Online, Battlestar Galactica Online and Zentia?

If you were asked -- and hey, we're asking you! -- what's your E3 highlight? Who gets the blue ribbon and who ends up empty-handed?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your E3 highlight? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlineblue-ribboncinematicdark-millennium-onlinedc-universe-onlinedcuoe3e3-2010e3-highlightsfinal-fantasy-xivforsaken-worldlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionstar-wars-the-old-republicsuper-hero-squad-onlineswordsman-onlinetaikodomtdgterathe-agencythe-daily-grindtortrailerWarhammer-40KzentiaFri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: The Agency blows up in our faces... and it's a good thing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-the-agency-blows-up-in-our-faces-and-its-a-good-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-the-agency-blows-up-in-our-faces-and-its-a-good-thi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/e3-2010-the-agency-blows-up-in-our-faces-and-its-a-good-thi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

After seeing the new trailer yesterday for SOE's The Agency, we thought nothing could get us more revved up about this upcoming title. We were wrong. DEAD wrong. Ahem. Sorry.

For aspiring Mr. and Ms. Kiss-Kiss-Bang-Bangs out there, The Agency is promising all of the hot, high-tech spy action that you can handle. Step into the shoes of James Bond, Jason Bourne, Inspector Gadget or Maxwell Smart, grab your favorite weapon, and throw yourself into one of many exciting locales where you and other players will compete for all the secrets and bragging rights.

At E3, Massively got the chance to sit down with The Agency's Senior Producer Josh Hackney and check in on how this title is progressing. Hit the jump to read about specialized roles, PvP and why mindlessly spraying hot lead in all directions is completely passé.

Continue reading E3 2010: The Agency blows up in our faces... and it's a good thing

MassivelyE3 2010: The Agency blows up in our faces... and it's a good thing originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agencye3e3-2010featuredinspector-gadgetjames-bondjason-bournejosh-hackneykiss-kiss-bang-bangmaxwell-smartoracle-visionreconsnipersniper-riflesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentthe-agencyWed, 16 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Online Entertainment reveals The Agency trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/sony-online-entertainment-reveals-the-agency-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/sony-online-entertainment-reveals-the-agency-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/15/sony-online-entertainment-reveals-the-agency-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Have you been passing the time playing Covert Ops while you wait for Sony Online Entertainment to give us more news about The Agency? If you remember, when they announced their Facebook game, they promised that the full-blown MMO is still coming.

They held true to their promise. Massively will be speaking one-on-one with SOE tomorrow, but in the meantime, we have a shiny new trailer to show off. Crouching on buildings sniper-style, exchanging a few hundred rounds of ammo in a fancy hotel lobby, and a firefight as you run through the city streets -- what more could you want?

Follow along after the jump for the new trailer, and don't forget to keep an eye on Massively for our talk with the Sony Online Entertainment team at E3.

[via Big Download]

Continue reading Sony Online Entertainment reveals The Agency trailer

MassivelySony Online Entertainment reveals The Agency trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3-2010pvpSOESony-Online-Entertainmentthe-agencythe-agency-trailerTue, 15 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE unveils The Agency Facebook game, announces The Agency will be at E3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/soe-unveils-the-agency-facebook-game-announces-the-agency-will/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/soe-unveils-the-agency-facebook-game-announces-the-agency-will/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/04/soe-unveils-the-agency-facebook-game-announces-the-agency-will/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Hey, remember that time Sony Online Entertainment trademarked "The Agency Covert Ops" and we all wondered why? Now we know. It turns out that you're going to be able to play The Agency while you wait for The Agency to launch.

No, really. Covert Ops, the newest Facebook app from Sony Online Entertainment, serves as a tie-in to the upcoming secret agent MMO The Agency. Don't dismiss this as another boring mafia-style Facebook grind until you check it out, because our friends at Mashable scored an interview with the developers and Covert Ops goes way beyond "ask everyone on your friends list for two nails and a board." Customization is king here right from the start, offering a unique look from the tattoos on your character to their overall living space.

Continue reading SOE unveils The Agency Facebook game, announces The Agency will be at E3

MassivelySOE unveils The Agency Facebook game, announces The Agency will be at E3 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 May 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcovert-opscovert-ops-facebookfacebookFacebook gamesFacebookGamesSOEsony-online-entertainmentthe-agencythe-agency-covert-opsTue, 04 May 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[This week on the MMO Report]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/08/this-week-on-the-mmo-report/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This week's edition of the MMO Report hits the highlights of a busy week around the MMOsphere, and host Casey Schreiner is in fine form, particularly when he gives a shout out to Massively and our sister site WoW.com.

After those two show-stopping highlights, you'll find news and commentary on Free Realms' first birthday bash, tidbits about Sony's The Agency, race and clan information for Square-Enix's forthcoming Final Fantasy XIV, and a dose of reader humor courtesy of Uncle Casey's Mailbag. Oh and don't forget the mention of NCSoft's City of Heroes II (or is it 2)?

Check out this week's MMO Report after the jump, or visit our archive and our friends at G4TV.

Continue reading This week on the MMO Report

MassivelyThis week on the MMO Report originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Apr 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey-schreinercity-of-heroes-2final-fantasy-xivfree-realmsg4tvthe-agencythe-mmo-reportThu, 08 Apr 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Is The Agency launching on December 31st? Nope]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/is-the-agency-launching-on-december-31st-nope/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/is-the-agency-launching-on-december-31st-nope/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/is-the-agency-launching-on-december-31st-nope/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Normally we've got no problem speculating on rumors here at Massively. It's a fun way to pass the days until a beta really does begin or a release date actually is announced. Except, sometimes, it gets taken too far.

Rumors of SOE's The Agency receiving a December 31st release date have been floating into our inbox lately. Of course, that doesn't make any sense, because six days after Christmas (and one day before New Year's Day) is a horrible time to launch any game, especially one that requires all-hands-on-deck like an MMO. Additionally, any time a retailer lists a game at a default price on the first or last day of the month? That's a big shot in the dark.

The fact of the matter is nobody knows the release date for The Agency, even though everyone wishes they did. We're fairly sure that even the development team doesn't have a clear picture of that right now. Most videogames have a moving "release window" and this one is no different from the rest. When we do have a solid information expect to hear all about it right here on Massively.

MassivelyIs The Agency launching on December 31st? Nope originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>decemberfalsenew-yearsrelease-daterumorsoesony-online-entertainmentspeculationthe-agencyMon, 29 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE announces dates for Fan Faire 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/soe-announces-dates-for-fan-faire-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/soe-announces-dates-for-fan-faire-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/soe-announces-dates-for-fan-faire-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

For fans of Sony Online Entertainment's stable of MMO titles, the time has come once again to start making plans for Fan Faire. It looks like we'll all be heading back to Bally's Hotel in Las Vegas from August 5-8 for a weekend chock-full of all manner of crazy gaming fun with MMO friends.

This year, they're offering everything from day passes at $35 on up to a Platinum badge which -- for $135 -- will net you access to all events, plus an additional in-game item, a special swag bag boasting more than just regular Fan Faire goodies, access to a VIP lounge, and even private VIP events. Add to that the room discounts starting at $65 a night for a swanky hotel right on the main Vegas strip, and this could well be a great vacation that just happens to include the awesome fun of this year's SOE Fan Faire.

For now, there's no details on the schedule of events, but we wouldn't be surprised to see Alan "Brenlo" Crosby wedging people into t-shirts three sizes too small, as well as an appearance by of one of our favorite Dwarves. If previous years are any indication, this is a should-not-miss event for any serious SOE fan.

MassivelySOE announces dates for Fan Faire 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdc-universe-onlinedcuoeqeq2eqiieqoaeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-online-adventuresfan-fairefan-faire-2010las-vegaspssoesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyvanguardvegasvgThu, 04 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE trademarks 'The Agency Covert Ops']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/soe-trademarks-the-agency-covert-ops/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/soe-trademarks-the-agency-covert-ops/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/soe-trademarks-the-agency-covert-ops/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In the world of videogames, trademarks can mean just about anything. So when Sony Online Entertainment filed for the trademark to The Agency Covert Ops it's no surprise that rumors of a name change were floating around, especially since we haven't seen hide nor hair of The Agency for some time now.

We contacted SOE for a statement. Here's their response: "We are always trying to plan ahead for our titles in development and at times that means acquiring TM's or URL's that we feel we may want to own in the future. At this point SOE has made no official announcement regarding this Covert Ops TM and any information in the marketplace about it is premature."

What could this mean? Well, it could be a name change, but SOE has several studios from Seattle to L.A. down into Tucson and Austin, too. So, while it's very possible that Covert Ops could be a name change, our bet would be on either a wholly different game or potentially a future expansion. That's just our guess, of course. And there's always the possibility we may never know.

MassivelySOE trademarks 'The Agency Covert Ops' originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>soesoe-austinsoe-los-angelessoe-seattlesoe-tucsonsony-online-entertainmentthe-agencythe-agency-covert-opsWed, 24 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Redefining MMOs: The Shooter Invasion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/redefining-mmos-the-shooter-invasion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/redefining-mmos-the-shooter-invasion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/redefining-mmos-the-shooter-invasion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


The MMO industry is always changing, and if we're going to stay ahead of the curve, we need to re-evaluate some of our views and ingrained notions from time to time. The Redefining MMOs series at Massively is our look at the state of massively multiplayer online games as it is today, and where we see it going. This week we're going to look at how shooters have invaded the MMO space, give you a run-down of some promising MMO shooters on the horizon, and finally tackle the question of whether or not they should be covered here at Massively.

Something we're seeing more and more is a blurring of the lines between formerly distinct game genres -- this is especially true of shooters and MMOs. There are a number of shooters on the horizon that fit the bill as MMOs (although not RPGs), but such games are a radical departure from the DikuMUD pedigree shared by most MMORPG titles we cover at Massively. These shooter-MMO hybrids may have quests, levels, and classes, but they cast few illusions about being true RPGs. They're shooters through and through, but have persistent settings or are massively multiplayer -- traits which catch our attention.

Continue reading Redefining MMOs: The Shooter Invasion

MassivelyRedefining MMOs: The Shooter Invasion originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinconsolescrimedust-514featuredfirst-person-shooterfpsgame-mechanicsglobal-agendahuxleymagmmo-industrymmofpsopinionplanetsidepvpredefining-mmossci-fishootersthe-agencythird-person-shooterFri, 18 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gen Con 2009: MMOs in the E-gaming area]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/gen-con-2009-mmos-in-the-e-gaming-area/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/gen-con-2009-mmos-in-the-e-gaming-area/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/gen-con-2009-mmos-in-the-e-gaming-area/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Massively was at Gen Con 2009 yesterday in Indianapolis, Indiana, and while most of the (gigantic) convention was involved with more traditional types of gaming, from dice and board games to collectible card games and RPGs, MMOs made their own splash in the "e-gaming" area. Sony Online Entertainment probably had the biggest presence -- in among huge posters of Free Realms and Star Wars Galaxies, they had demos running of all of their current games (though we didn't see any previews of DCUO or The Agency running). A costumed model posed for pictures in front of a large Legends of Norrath poster, while over in the CCG area, SOE held tournaments of the game for players.

Gallery: MMOs at Gen Con 2009

Continue reading Gen Con 2009: MMOs in the E-gaming area

MassivelyGen Con 2009: MMOs in the E-gaming area originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlineconventionsdcuoeventsfansfree-realmsfungalleriesgamesgaminggen-congen-con-2009gen-con-indygen-con-indy-2009legends-of-norrathpen-and-paperrpgsoestar-wars-galaxiesthe-agencySun, 16 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE Seattle staff departures shouldn't affect The Agency]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/soe-seattle-staff-departures-shouldnt-affect-the-agency/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/soe-seattle-staff-departures-shouldnt-affect-the-agency/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/soe-seattle-staff-departures-shouldnt-affect-the-agency/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


In the wake of the recent layoffs at SOE, we're now getting word from Eurogamer that some voluntary departures had happened at the beginning of the month as well. Studio Director and Executive Producer Matt Wilson, Art Director Corey Dangel, and Producer John Smith had all left the Seattle studio to form a new venture called Detonator Games. This Seattle studio is currently producing the upcoming espionage MMO The Agency.

Eurogamer also states that a source "in the Seattle game development community" suggested to them that this means some major changes to The Agency, possibly delaying it beyond its projected 2010 release date. SOE responded to that rumor by saying, "The Agency is not undergoing a reboot of any sorts - that is incorrect. The team in Seattle is still working diligently on this project and we're looking forward to showing you new content in the future."

Whether these departures will affect the production of The Agency or not, we'll just have to wait and see. What we do know for sure is that the game is playable and looks quite good, according to a demo we saw at E3 earlier this year. Best of luck to the SOE Seattle team and to Detonator Games for whatever project they may be developing.

MassivelySOE Seattle staff departures shouldn't affect The Agency originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsdetonator-gameslayoffssoesoe-seattlesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyFri, 31 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan Faire extras on the latest official SOE podcast]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/fan-faire-extras-on-the-latest-official-soe-podcast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/fan-faire-extras-on-the-latest-official-soe-podcast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/fan-faire-extras-on-the-latest-official-soe-podcast/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you're reading this post, we will assume that you are probably interested in getting all the goods on this year's SOE Fan Faire. And why wouldn't you with all the announcements? SOE announced expansions for both EverQuest and EverQuest 2, plus lots of incoming goodies for Free Realms and even Star Wars Galaxies -- although your mileage may vary when it comes to zombies in your Star Wars.

Anyhow, the podcast was recorded live at the event, which means you'll be hearing plenty of immediate reactions and thoughts on news and then-current happenings. Sadly, there doesn't seem to be any information regarding The Agency or DC Universe Online, much like at the actual event itself. Nevertheless, anyone interested in the previously mentioned games or live podcasts with jump-on guests will find something to enjoy here.

MassivelyFan Faire extras on the latest official SOE podcast originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashlannebrenlodc-universe-onlineeqeq2everquesteverquest-2fan-fairefan-faire-2009free-realmssoesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesthe-agencyMon, 06 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: A complete roundup of Massively's coverage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-complete-roundup-of-massivelys-coverage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-complete-roundup-of-massivelys-coverage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-a-complete-roundup-of-massivelys-coverage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Electronic Entertainment Expo 2009 proved to be a significant event for the gaming industry once again, with a fair amount of news and announcements related to MMOs. Massively was there on the ground for E3 this year and we've been putting up breaking announcements, interviews, and hands-on previews throughout.

Given how much info came out of E3 on Massively, here's a roundup of our coverage, day-by-day. Be sure to check out the rest after the jump as there's plenty more content, plus you'll find E3 galleries for these games as you click through. To cap it all off, we've also put together an E3 2009 wrapup video for you at the end of this post. Read on to see where the MMO industry is headed in the next year and beyond!

Continue reading E3 2009: A complete roundup of Massively's coverage

MassivelyE3 2009: A complete roundup of Massively's coverage originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinchampions-onlinedragonica-onlinedungeon-fighter-onlinee3-2009final-fantasy-xivfree-realmsglobal-agendaheroes-of-telarahomejade-dynastyjumpgate-evolutionmassively-event-coveragemassively-hands-onmassively-interviewsmmo-industrymythosnew-titlesperfect-worldperfect-world-age-of-spiritsperfect-world-internationalrohan-blood-feudroundupstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-agencytorchlightMon, 08 Jun 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Massively's day 4 roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/e3-2009-massivelys-day-4-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/e3-2009-massivelys-day-4-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/e3-2009-massivelys-day-4-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Wait a minute, day 4 of E3 2009? Remedial math skills? E3 was only a three-day event, but our own coverage of Electronic Entertainment Expo 2009 is going to last a bit longer. We've still got a number of interviews and previews lined up for you in the coming days, today included, so we hope you'll keep reading this weekend. In the meantime, here are a few highlights of Massively's coverage of E3 2009 from yesterday:


If you'd like to see more, we've got some eye candy after the jump, with galleries for Champions Online, Torchlight, Rohan: Blood Feud, and Dragonica Online.

Continue reading E3 2009: Massively's day 4 roundup

MassivelyE3 2009: Massively's day 4 roundup originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 06 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinbill-roperchampions-onlinedragonica-onlinee3-2009final-fantasy-xivglobal-agendaheroes-of-telararohanrohan-blood-feudroundupstar-wars-the-old-republicthe-agencytorchlightSat, 06 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Massively's day 2 roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-massivelys-day-2-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-massivelys-day-2-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/e3-2009-massivelys-day-2-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


We thought the first day of E3 2009 turned out pretty well, with announcements for Star Wars: The Old Republic, Final Fantasy XIV, and All Points Bulletin. That's in addition to the packed interview schedule we lined up so we'll have plenty more to show you in the coming days. While the Massively team frantically taps their fingertips down into little bloody tater tots to bring you more fresh E3 goodness, have a look at some highlights of what day 2 of E3 2009 brought in MMO news.

Want to see more? We've got E3 galleries to flip through for these titles and events after the jump.

Continue reading E3 2009: Massively's day 2 roundup

MassivelyE3 2009: Massively's day 2 roundup originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009eventsfantasyfinal-fantasy-xivfree-realmsglobal-agendaguiness-world-recordshi-rez-studiosmassively-event-coveragemmofpsroundupsci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentspysquare-enixsqueenixthe-agencythe-daresThu, 04 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: Day one video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-day-one-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-day-one-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-day-one-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


While it's technically the first day for most attendees, we've actually been here since Sunday, preparing for the big event. Yet, yesterday marked the first time the show floor was opened and we all got a look at the new E3.

After last year's disappointing showing, the organizers more than made up for it with what is arguably the largest collection of shinies we've seen at any conference in recent years. To pay respect for E3 going back to the way it was, we've compiled this short video of what we saw on Day 1. There's some shaky-cam footage of the show floor, some great MMO screens including never-before-seen shots of Torchlight and DCUO, and of course, an EverQuest booth babe. You can check it out right after the jump, and be sure to look for another compilation video once the convention is over, featuring our favorite moments.
Massively is on the ground in Los Angeles this week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

Continue reading E3 2009: Day one video

MassivelyE3 2009: Day one video originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferenceday-onedcuoe3-2009global-agendashow-floorthe-agencytorchlightWed, 03 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: The Agency in-game footage]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-the-agency-in-game-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-the-agency-in-game-footage/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/03/e3-2009-the-agency-in-game-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,


As part of our extensive E3 tour through SOE's newest games, launched and upcoming, we got a fairly good look at some gameplay footage in The Agency. Of course, you know The Agency as the spy MMO that had everyone talking at last year's E3. With this new gameplay footage, you lucky readers (or, viewers) get to see what to expect when the game launches.

Click through after the jump to see the game's lead producer, Lorien Gremore, show us around a bit with combat, stealth, minigames and even a bit of female persuasion tactics*.

* Not from Lorien

Gallery: E3 2009: The Agency

Massively is on the ground in Los Angeles this week and covering all the latest E3 MMO news coming from the convention. Check out our breaking coverage (or all the Joystiq network E3 reporting) and keep your eye on Massively's front page for the latest developments.

Continue reading E3 2009: The Agency in-game footage

MassivelyE3 2009: The Agency in-game footage originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoe3-2009soespythe-agencyWed, 03 Jun 2009 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Agency declassifies intel for revamped game site]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/the-agency-declassifies-intel-for-revamped-game-site/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/the-agency-declassifies-intel-for-revamped-game-site/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/the-agency-declassifies-intel-for-revamped-game-site/#commentsFiled under: ,


One of the new titles on the way from Sony Online Entertainment is The Agency which promises to bring espionage into the world of MMOs. There were no announcements for The Agency at today's Sony press event at the E3 Expo, but we've noticed that there's new content to be found on the game's official site.

A quick search of The Agency site reveals some new screenshots and wallpapers, concept art, info about both playable factions -- U.N.I.T.E. (spies) and Paragon (mercenaries) -- and a tongue-in-cheek 'evaluation quiz' for recruitment to each faction. In addition to the new art assets, they've also got their latest trailer up on the site as well. If you've been looking forward to some spies-and-mercenaries gameplay in an MMO, check out what's new on The Agency's revamped site.

MassivelyThe Agency declassifies intel for revamped game site originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>espionagemercenariesmercenaryparagonsoesony-online-entertainmentspiesspythe-agencyu.n.i.t.e.uniteTue, 02 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Agency: New CG trailer builds excitement leading up to E3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/the-agency-new-cg-trailer-builds-excitement-leading-up-to-e3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/the-agency-new-cg-trailer-builds-excitement-leading-up-to-e3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/the-agency-new-cg-trailer-builds-excitement-leading-up-to-e3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We're at least six months away from release but it seems like hype for SOE's spy MMO, The Agency is starting to build up. Maybe it has something to do with E3 happening next week in L.A.. Do you think we'll see a polished and playable demo? Fingers crossed! Either way, you can be sure we'll bring you some juicy info after we've cornered a developer and prodded him or her with a blunt microphone.

Hopefully, this news will tide you over. An exclusive CG trailer that originally premiered on X-Play just made it up to the G4TV website. There doesn't appear to be any game play footage, however, this does look as though it could be a mission introduction cinematic.

Catch the video after the cut and stay tuned for exclusive Massively news about The Agency from E3 2009.

Continue reading The Agency: New CG trailer builds excitement leading up to E3

MassivelyThe Agency: New CG trailer builds excitement leading up to E3 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 May 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cge3-2009espionagesoespythe-agencytrailervideoFri, 29 May 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Infiltrating SOE to get a sneak peek of The Agency]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/infiltrating-soe-to-get-a-sneak-peak-of-the-agency/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/infiltrating-soe-to-get-a-sneak-peak-of-the-agency/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/infiltrating-soe-to-get-a-sneak-peak-of-the-agency/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Eurogamer's Oli Welsh had a chance to visit SOE headquarters and chat with Hal Milton, Lead Designer of The Agency. We think it's fair to say this is the most we've heard about the spy-MMO in a long time and it has us excited about what we might find out at E3 2009.

We have known for a while that SOE was aiming to release The Agency on both the PC and PS3, but we weren't sure if they could pull it off. Apparently, development for the console is going well because Oli got a chance to watch two developers play a mission together on both platforms and says it looked pretty good. When asked about whether or not the game would use the subscription or F2P/RMT model, Hal responded by saying that they are aiming for the lowest barrier of entry for PS3 players, which probably lends itself to the latter.

The interview uncovers many details on planned methods of progression, including a mashup of reputation, influence, skill/item usage (à la Darkfall?), operatives, and XP unlocks. Operatives are one of the more difficult concepts to understand and the author explains them in an interesting way: "...operatives are loot, and hopelessly irresistible loot at at that. Pursuing and sorting an ideal roster will be akin to assembling a perfect gear set in an RPG - if your gear argued with itself, made more gear for you while you were offline, and you could equip 100 pieces at once at max level."

To learn more about the game including their plans for missions, the environment, PvP, and even gambling mini-games, check out the monster three-page interview.

MassivelyInfiltrating SOE to get a sneak peek of The Agency originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 May 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cross-platformdarkfalleurogamerhal-miltoninterviewoli-welshps3soespythe-agencyMon, 25 May 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Agency still has a pulse, fact sheet confirms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/the-agency-still-has-a-pulse-fact-sheet-confirms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/the-agency-still-has-a-pulse-fact-sheet-confirms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/the-agency-still-has-a-pulse-fact-sheet-confirms/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Sony Online Entertainment could have a PC and console hit on their hands if their spies and mercenaries MMO The Agency lives up to expectations. The Agency has fallen off of the media radar of late, but development is moving ahead on the title.The last word we've received on when we'll be able to get our hands on the game is that The Agency will be released in 2010. Massively has some previous coverage of The Agency but we're always looking out for more info, and that's what we found today.

While we've touched upon some of this information in the past, SOE has released a brief fact sheet that explains the concepts behind The Agency and its "modern setting of bullets, bomb blasts, and betrayal." We're still hoping that there will be more info announced about the game at the E3 Expo in June, but until SOE declassifies their intel, you can check out The Agency fact sheet below the cut:

Continue reading The Agency still has a pulse, fact sheet confirms

MassivelyThe Agency still has a pulse, fact sheet confirms originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 May 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleespionagemercenariesmercenarysoesony-online-entertainmentspiesspythe-agencyWed, 13 May 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MTV Multiplayer speaks with MMO devs looking to attract shooter fans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/mtv-multiplayer-speaks-with-mmo-devs-looking-to-attract-shooter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/mtv-multiplayer-speaks-with-mmo-devs-looking-to-attract-shooter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/23/mtv-multiplayer-speaks-with-mmo-devs-looking-to-attract-shooter/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Undoubtedly, the developers of games like All Points Bulletin, The Agency, CrimeCraft and Earthrise would like shooter fans to give their game a try. And with so many of these titles on the way, it can be a little difficult to know which one may be for you. So, MTV Multiplayer's Tracey John went out and got each developer's take on why they think shooter fans should look into their respective games.

Not all of these games take the same shooter mentality approach, but that's a good thing. Variety is of course the spice of life, especially when those things involve itchy digital trigger fingers. You can be sure we'll be bringing you even more information in the future so you can decide which of these games is for you.

MassivelyMTV Multiplayer speaks with MMO devs looking to attract shooter fans originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbcrimecraftearthrisemasthead-studiosmtv-multiplayerrealtime-worldssoesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencytracey-johnvogsterThu, 23 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE Fan Faire 2009 now open for registration]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/soe-fan-faire-2009-now-open-for-registration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/soe-fan-faire-2009-now-open-for-registration/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/soe-fan-faire-2009-now-open-for-registration/#commentsFiled under: , ,


With this year marking EverQuest's 10th anniversary, you can bet that SOE's Fan Faire 2009 is going to be a little grander than usual. As it turns out, then plan is for an expanded weekend event with all sorts of awesome stuff for fans to check out. Want to try DC Universe Online? You'll be able to play it all you like at Fan Faire via playable demos of upcoming SOE titles. Hey, maybe you'll be the first to see The Agency in quite some time!

Beyond even that, there are plans for sneak peeks at new games in development, which should be pretty exciting. But that's just really a small glimpse of the goings on planned for this year's event. If you want to get a much bigger picture, head on over to the registration site. We're sure this year will be full of great news information and tons of events for the fans.

MassivelySOE Fan Faire 2009 now open for registration originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuoeverquesteverquest-2fan-faire-2009registrationsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyMon, 20 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Evolving past the Diku design]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/the-digital-continuum-evolving-past-the-diku-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/the-digital-continuum-evolving-past-the-diku-design/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/the-digital-continuum-evolving-past-the-diku-design/#commentsFiled under: , ,


I never played any of the numerous MUDs -- let alone DikuMUD -- back in the early nineties, and it's probably for the best, as my then youthful mind wouldn't have spared more than a few minutes to learn how they worked, let alone spend the necessary time to play them. We're talking pre-teen here, just to be clear, and I was really interested in stuff like point and click adventure games. Oh, and also Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Even though I wasn't around for the progenitors that would eventually lead to things like Ultima Online, EverQuest, Dark Age of Camelot and World of Warcraft, it's not hard for me to see in the wake of all those titles the line of ideas and creativity that connects all of them. Hell, you can trace it back to the original release of Dungeons and Dragons if you really wanted to, but let's focus on the future for today.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Evolving past the Diku design

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Evolving past the Diku design originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinbattlefield-2142blizzardchampions-onlinecities-xlciy-of-heroescrypticcryptic-studiosdark-age-of-camelotdikumuddungeons-and-dragonselectronic-artseve-onlineeverquestfallen-eartfeaturedfree-realmsjumpgate-evolutionmythic-entertainmentncsoftnetdevilplanetsiderealtime-worldssoesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencythe-digital-continuumultima-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 20 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online and The Agency get a 2010 release date]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/dc-universe-online-and-the-agency-get-a-2010-release-date/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/dc-universe-online-and-the-agency-get-a-2010-release-date/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/dc-universe-online-and-the-agency-get-a-2010-release-date/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

John Smedley, president of Sony Online Entertainment announced that both DC Universe Online and The Agency are slated for release in 2010 during his GDC keynote speech. This will come as disappointing news to anxious fans, but probably great news for Cryptic Studios who appear to be on target for a 2009 release of their own super hero MMO, Champions Online. NCsoft will breath a little easier too now that they will only have to deal with one threat to City of Heroes this year instead of two.

The news of DCUO in 2010 is not surprising, but many fans were expecting (read: hoping) The Agency would come out some time this year. The team-based spy thriller will eventually be playable on both the PC and console platforms and delaying too much longer could give rise to issues if the PS4 is ever announced. That said, SOE should be more plugged in to their own company's console than other developers, so they would be best equipped to deal with that potential situation should it occur. Perhaps this is the very reason The Agency is being delayed? Without much official news on the title lately, fans can do little else but speculate.

MassivelyDC Universe Online and The Agency get a 2010 release date originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuogdcgdc-2009john-smedleysoesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyWed, 25 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Five PvP MMOs with potential]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/21/the-digital-continuum-five-pvp-mmos-with-potential/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/21/the-digital-continuum-five-pvp-mmos-with-potential/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/21/the-digital-continuum-five-pvp-mmos-with-potential/#commentsFiled under: , ,


PvP and PvE -- both are part and parcel to the MMO experience. Some games focus on one more than the other, to be sure. Others try to strike an even balance, but ultimately a game seems to become one aspect more than the other.

With so many upcoming MMOs in the next couple of years, I thought it would be worthwhile to see which games may possess a substantial degree of PvP potential. As per usual, I'm choosing five to keep things from getting out of hand.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Five PvP MMOs with potential

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Five PvP MMOs with potential originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 21 Mar 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardfeaturedgazillion-entertainmentjoystiqfeaturesjumpgate-evolutionnetdevilpvpsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencythe-digital-continuumworld-of-warcraftSat, 21 Mar 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What happens at Fan Faire, stays at Fan Faire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/what-happens-at-fan-faire-stays-at-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/what-happens-at-fan-faire-stays-at-fan-faire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/what-happens-at-fan-faire-stays-at-fan-faire/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Vegas, city of lights, nightlife, and SOE's Fan Faire! Sony has announced that they will once again be heading for Vegas to party down in high-rolling style. This year they'll be holding the event from June 25th to 28th at Bally's Hotel. The location they've picked is right in the middle of various Vegas attractions - although we're sure if you're there for the SOE party, you won't need to worry about that too much.

Having attended last year's Fan Faire, we can definitely say that it's a great weekend of fun and interesting panels, nice people - and this year's lineup appears to be just as interesting. So far the scheduled events include:

  • Special announcements and sneak peeks of upcoming SOE titles at the Third Annual Community Address from SOE President John Smedley
  • Autograph signings with members of the original EQ development team and other key contributors
  • Lots of in-game tournaments; and live, game-themed competitions and quests
  • Developer forums and roundtables
  • Cool giveaways and other fun items!
  • Player of the Year
To top it all off, prices for Vegas vacations are quite good, currently. So if you've been thinking about getting away, really dig SOE's games - or upcoming titles, and enjoy partying down with a great bunch of friendly, welcoming people, then definitely make some plans to attend this year's Fan Faire.

MassivelyWhat happens at Fan Faire, stays at Fan Faire originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ballys-hoteldcuoeqeq-2eq-iieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-online-adventuresfan-fairefan-faire-2009free-realmslas-vegaslegends-of-norrathmxopirates-of-the-burning-seapotbsstar-wars-galaxiesswgthe-agencythe-matrix-onlineWed, 18 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How important are console MMO titles to you?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/the-daily-grind-how-important-are-console-mmo-titles-to-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/the-daily-grind-how-important-are-console-mmo-titles-to-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/the-daily-grind-how-important-are-console-mmo-titles-to-you/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


With the news out yesterday that Champions Online will not be seeing a launch day release to consoles along with the PC client, we're kind of wondering what's coming for the future of consoles in terms of MMO releases. Sure, there are already a handful of MMOs out there in the space: Final Fantasy XI, Phantasy Star Universe, and EverQuest Online Adventures, but they seem to be more the exception than the rule. Age of Conan, promised to be released to consoles shortly after AoC's PC launch, has been beseiged by setbacks and is now only rarely mentioned - if at all. Champions Online has been set back. Free Realms (and likely the other upcoming SOE titles as well), perhaps the strongest potential crossover due to SOE being part of SCEA, will still see console release well after the initial PC launch.

So with all the delays or largely-vaporware-status of several promised console MMOs, we thought we'd ask you this morning - just exactly how important is it to you, as an MMO gamer, that there are more options for MMOs on the console? Do you look forward to the day when you can get a USB keyboard and hook it into your console, to enjoy a round of MMO gaming from the comfort of your couch? Or does it not really make much of a difference for you, as you'll be at your computer anyway; after all, consoles don't tend to offer the option of alt-tabbing out and checking database sites for item drops, locations, tips and other hints. How important are console MMOs to you?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: How important are console MMO titles to you? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlineconsoleconsole-mmodc-universe-onlinedcuoffxifinal-fantasy-xifree-realmsmmoplaystation-2playstation-3ps3the-agencyxbox-360Thu, 12 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[San Diego declares day in honor of SOE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/san-diego-declares-day-in-honor-of-soe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/san-diego-declares-day-in-honor-of-soe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/san-diego-declares-day-in-honor-of-soe/#commentsFiled under: ,


This tidbit of news - while pretty cool - is something you really don't hear every day in terms of MMO companies. It seems that the City of San Diego is commemorating the 10th anniversary of the original EverQuest and the "continued support and dedication SOE shows to the city and community" by dedicating a whole day to Sony Online Entertainment. What's better is that you're all invited to join the celebration!

The dedication will be taking place on March 10th at 10 AM, and anyone interested in attending is advised to arrive early to get through security and snag a nice parking spot. John Smedley will be on hand to accept this very nifty award from San Diego City Councilmember Carl DeMaio. 10 years of being online is a hell of an achievement for any MMO. Now the burning question we want to know is if Councilman DeMaio ever had to corpse run too?

MassivelySan Diego declares day in honor of SOE originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedcuoeverquesteverquest-10th-anniversaryeverquest-2everquest-iipirates-of-the-burning-seaplanetsidesan-diegosoesoe-daysony-online-entertainmentthe-agencythe-matrix-onlinevanguardWed, 04 Mar 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New details emerge about The Agency]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/new-details-emerge-about-the-agency/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/new-details-emerge-about-the-agency/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/new-details-emerge-about-the-agency/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The Agency HQ fansite had a chance to interview a group of developers from SOE Seattle who are working on upcoming MMOFPS/RPG title, The Agency. If you don't know much about this cross-platform game, check out our past coverage and the excellent primer up on Wikipedia. That said, the game is still in development and things may change.

Questions asked during the interview were thought up by fans from the HQ forums, so you know they're going to be insightful. SOE's answers alluded to signature "class" abilities and counters, planned progression motivators with the "you are what you wear" system, a more intensive resource management system (e.g., ammo) than you'll find in most FPS games, and the MacGyvering, er, crafting system based on schematics and resources (e.g., chemicals and minerals).

Perhaps most interesting was their example of how role dynamics can play out in the various group-oriented missions. The tank/combat player will try drawing enemy fire while the stealth/special-ops type will try finding an advantageous position (e.g., sniper's nest) to lay support fire down. Meanwhile the tactical/support will try disabling the area defences (e.g., turrets) and the field medic will give support as needed.. The game will also support those of the soloing persuasion.

MassivelyNew details emerge about The Agency originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>interviewps3SOEthe-agencyFri, 27 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST