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 Digital Continuum: The trouble with sticking to MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/the-digital-continuum-the-trouble-with-sticking-to-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/the-digital-continuum-the-trouble-with-sticking-to-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/30/the-digital-continuum-the-trouble-with-sticking-to-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I get to these points where not a single MMO will stick with me any longer than roughly one month -- sometimes less. That wasn't always the case, though. There was a time when I could play a single MMO nearly every day for three or four months before getting tired of it. And a lot of my friends are in the same boat, trying to regularly play an MMO but mostly faltering.

This isn't new to me. In fact, I've been here before and I know how to get out of the viciously boring cycle. This week's The Digital Continuum is all about renewing the luster to your MMO experience, and maybe a little more.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: The trouble with sticking to MMOs

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: The trouble with sticking to MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardboredomcity-of-heroescryptic-studiosfeaturedgroupncsoftopinionparagon-studiossolothe-digital-continuumworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 30 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Lost in worlds divided]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/the-digital-continuum-lost-in-worlds-divided/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/the-digital-continuum-lost-in-worlds-divided/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/the-digital-continuum-lost-in-worlds-divided/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In the many MMOs I've played, the ratio between games that got world design right and those that got it wrong is surprisingly skewed towards the latter. Nothing kills the thrill of discovering a new online world faster than feeling like you're being kicked around seemingly unconnected environments without possessing any real understanding or control.

This week's The Digital Continuum is aimed at discussing practical ways to address this problem. Obviously this is -- as per usual -- my personal opinion taken mostly from my brain and the experience gathering within it.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Lost in worlds divided

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Lost in worlds divided originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardcgcgicinematiccinematicscut-scenecutscenedesignfeaturedopening-cinematicopinionspacethe-digital-continuumworldworld-designworld-of-wacraftwowzonesTue, 23 Mar 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Catching that All Points Bulletin fever]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/the-digital-continuum-catching-that-all-points-bulletin-fever/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/the-digital-continuum-catching-that-all-points-bulletin-fever/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/the-digital-continuum-catching-that-all-points-bulletin-fever/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I knew it would happen. GDC 2010 came and went, leaving behind a brand new trial of All Points Bulletin information that's making me want to play it more than ever before. I've written about the game a few times before, each instance knowing a little bit more about the title. This year's GDC brought us hands-on reports, interviews, the news of a North American beta and even a nine minute video presentation via shakeycam.

Now my knowledge feels mostly complete and aside from actually playing the game I've got a pretty good idea of why it's potentially going to be something no videogame fan -- let alone MMO fan -- will want to miss. So, let me share a few of them with you.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Catching that All Points Bulletin fever

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Catching that All Points Bulletin fever originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameapb-eaapb-gameea-all-points-bulletinea-apbea-gameselectronic-artselectronic-arts-all-points-bulletinfeaturedgdc-2010gdc10opinionthe-digital-continuumTue, 16 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: The importance of involvement]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/the-digital-continuum-the-importance-of-involvement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/the-digital-continuum-the-importance-of-involvement/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/the-digital-continuum-the-importance-of-involvement/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There's something to be said about feeling like you're fully engaged by an MMO. By "fully engaged" I don't mean that an MMO should be incredibly challenging. I also don't mean that it should "feel immersive" via sandbox or any other design philosophy.

What I mean is that -- and this is obviously just my opinion -- a game should do its very best to make sure the player is always instantly, nearly and eventually involved. I know that sounds confusing, but let me explain before you start attempting to mail me lettuce so that I can pay a friend to throw it at me.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: The importance of involvement

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: The importance of involvement originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There are times when I feel like being completely indulgent, and this week's The Digital Continuum is one of them.

The Fallout MMO has been a long while coming and probably will continue to be "on the horizon" well into the foreseeable future. So, it's with this knowledge that I've put together a grocery list of ideas that would be in my version of the game -- things that would make me decidedly excited to play as soon as possible. Honestly, I'm kind of surprised it took me so long to write these things down.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: My Fallout MMO

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: My Fallout MMO originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Anyone who's been playing MMOs for a little while has probably been looking forward to an upcoming game at least once. They also probably put a lot of expectations onto that game based on either their first game or what they thought an MMO should be. We've all done this at least once in our time as fans, and we've all been wrong to do it.

I've wanted to create some kind of data point -- even a fairly shaky one -- to prove this statement of mine. So, when the Star Wars: The Old Republic community created this thread to express their fears, I had my opportunity. In a wholly un-scientific manner, I've combed through the entire 17 page thread and tallied up all the fears within. This should be an entertaining ride.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Fears and opinions

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Fears and opinions originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtoreaelectronic-artsfaeturedlucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgopinionstar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-digital-continuumthe-old-republicMon, 22 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: 'Meh' to MMOs?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/the-digital-continuum-meh-to-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/the-digital-continuum-meh-to-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/the-digital-continuum-meh-to-mmos/#commentsFiled under: ,

irrezolut
While the MMO genre appears to be growing at a decent pace (at least for Blizzard) there's still plenty of room for growth. World of Warcraft clones can attract only so many interested players and turning to classic niche designs such as the sandbox MMO ala Fallen Earth won't do anything to pique the interest of people who otherwise have no interest in the genre.

So what will appeal to someone who has never felt a desire to play a game both massively and multiplayer?

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: 'Meh' to MMOs?

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: 'Meh' to MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Star Wars offers a setting with incredible chances at strong storytelling and it's for this reason I've been watching closely for any hints at the story elements in Star Wars: The Old Republic. This recent developer blog on the driving forces behind the Sith Inquisitor's tale really dug its claws into my mind.

Before now, I'd always assumed most choice elements within the story of any given class would be mostly binary. That was the easiest solution for BioWare, who has created quite the challenge for themselves with the premise of a full singleplayer storyline experience for each class within the game.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Can story supplant grind?

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Can story supplant grind? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-mmobioware-mmorpgbioware-star-warsbioware-swtoreaelectronic-artsfeaturedlucas-artslucas-arts-mmolucas-arts-mmorpgopinionrebecca-harwicksith-inquisitorstar-wars-gamestar-wars-mmostar-wars-mmorpgstar-wars-the-old-republicstar-wars-torstarwarsstarwars-the-old-republicsw-torswtorthe-digital-continuumthe-old-republicMon, 08 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: The 'Next Big Thing' in MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/the-digital-continuum-the-next-big-thing-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/the-digital-continuum-the-next-big-thing-in-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/the-digital-continuum-the-next-big-thing-in-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Is All Points Bulletin the "Next Big Thing" in MMOs? While I'm fully aware that Realtime Worlds doesn't specifically prefer to associate the game with this genre, it's very much a part of it -- but it also orbits the fringes of what we commonly refer to as a massively multiplayer online game.

Guild Wars, Guild Wars 2 and All Points Bulletin come from a different school of business models. These games hinge on the idea that most people dislike coughing up 15 bucks a month to keep playing their favorite title. Just look to the success of the original Guild Wars, having a year ago passed six million copies sold. That's a pretty great start for non-subscription MMOs, and because of that success we now have GW's sequel and APB on the way.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: The 'Next Big Thing' in MMOs

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: The 'Next Big Thing' in MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-gameapbapb-eaapb-gamearenanetblizzardbrutal-legendcrimecraftdouble-fineeaea-all-points-bulletinea-apbea-gamesea-partnerselectronic-artselectronic-arts-all-points-bulletinfeaturedgamerankingsguild-warsjack-blackmetacriticncsoftopinionrealtime-worldsthe-digital-continuumworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 01 Feb 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Your face is 'still in beta']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/the-digital-continuum-your-face-is-still-in-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/the-digital-continuum-your-face-is-still-in-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/the-digital-continuum-your-face-is-still-in-beta/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There's been discussion recently of the failings of "Dude, it's a beta!" as an argumentative device when someone makes a critical observation about an MMO during the beta process. Syp over at Bio Break takes the stance that people who say things like this are either considerable fanboys or have severe brain health issues. Of course, he then pulls away from that statement by declaring that the truth lies somewhere between the person claiming a game is "suck" and the person defending said title's honor with, well, "It's beta, dude."

I, however, think differently -- and it's probably not what you're expecting.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Your face is 'still in beta'

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Your face is 'still in beta' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribetabio-breakcrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedopinionstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestosypthe-digital-continuumMon, 25 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Delay? You can't handle the delay!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/the-digital-continuum-delay-you-cant-handle-the-delay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/the-digital-continuum-delay-you-cant-handle-the-delay/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/the-digital-continuum-delay-you-cant-handle-the-delay/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Rumor: a story or statement in general circulation without confirmation or certainty as to facts.

Example: Star Wars: The Old Republic will be released in October, 2010.

Yeah, guys, that was never in the wings. The fact of the matter is that the game was never delayed. You need at minimum a projected release date before something can be delayed. I personally find it pretty ridiculous that some people are worried about hype dying down for a game which they themselves thrust a false release date upon because they're so hyped up for it.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Delay? You can't handle the delay!

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Delay? You can't handle the delay! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102011biowaredelaydelayeddelaysdragon-agedragon-age-originseaelectronic-artsfeaturedlucasartsopinionrumorrumorssplinter-cellsplinter-cell-convictionstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-digital-continuumthe-old-republicTue, 19 Jan 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Socialize, now]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/the-digital-continuum-socialize-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/the-digital-continuum-socialize-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/11/the-digital-continuum-socialize-now/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Socialization is dead!

Isn't it?

Well actually, that's a tough one. Certainly, the perception that socialization is becoming a lesser factor to more and more developers has become the norm among most people. That doesn't necessarily mean they're correct. So, let's examine the general landscape of yesteryear and beyond to see what's really going on when it comes to human interaction in our massively multiplayer online games.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Socialize, now

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Socialize, now originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aventurineblizzardccpcity-of-heroescivilizationcivilization-networkcohdarkfallddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineebberon-unlimitedeberroneveeve-onlinefacebookfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedgazilliongazillion-entertainmentlegolego-universelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroncsoftnetdevilopinionsid-meiersocialsocializationthe-digital-continuumturbineworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 11 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Traversing the fantasy fantastic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/the-digital-continuum-traversing-the-fantasy-fantastic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/the-digital-continuum-traversing-the-fantasy-fantastic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/the-digital-continuum-traversing-the-fantasy-fantastic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This week I present you with something different. Over the weekend, I participated in an interesting New Year's gaming resolution thought up by the illustrious Phil Kollar. His reasons behind playing over the weekend were to finally finish Final Fantasy XII, but mine were wholly different. For me, it was an experiment to see if I could glean any useful information for what was to come in Final Fantasy XIV. Did I fail or succeed? Well, I'd like to say the latter was achieved, but I'll let you be the judge of that.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Traversing the fantasy fantastic

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Traversing the fantasy fantastic originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As excited as I am for Star Wars: The Old Republic, I keep wondering whether or not BioWare can pull off three or four games' worth of content. It's no secret that developing an MMO takes considerable time and effort, but adding in all this extra story content has got to require a massive fleet of creative people doing what creative people do best: work on little sleep and lots of caffeine.

Every MMO that's launched, has launched without all the content its designers wanted it to have. In reality, this is true of every videogame, but for MMOs the desire to "perfect" is significantly stronger because they're an ongoing development project. So, for this game, I find myself wondering what exactly it's going to have missing for launch day. As it turns out, there's a lot of potentials.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: SWTOR's content conundrums

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: SWTOR's content conundrums originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For a long time now I've found myself feeling those MMO doldrums. You know the ones I'm talking about. That mood where you want to play something -- anything -- that's even slightly interesting to you, but cannot for the life of you muster the interest to actually stick with it for very long, even if the game is quite good.

Well, usually for me that involves not playing anything MMO for some time. As you can imagine, that makes my writing here at Massively slightly more challenging. Sure, I play all sorts of other games, but this isn't the venue for discussion about them. It wasn't until my recent beta experience with Star Trek Online that I came across something that gave me more vigor for playing than Beetlejuice has for haunting: new experiences.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Find that fresh feeling

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Find that fresh feeling originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nowadays it seems like a newly released MMO has an estimated lifespan the length of a bag of chips left open overnight. That doesn't leave much hope for older MMOs, right? It appears that way, but games like EverQuest and EVE Online are doing well enough and they've been around for years. Sure, they may not be massive subscription behemoths, but they play home to thriving communities -- which is a lot more than I can say for the sunset titles of yesteryear.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Revitalized

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Revitalized originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineccpeve-onlineeverquestfeaturedfuncomgraphicsopinionsoesony-online-entertainmentstar-wars-galaxiesswgthe-digital-continuumupdateMon, 14 Dec 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Applying Foxbat liberally to Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/the-digital-continuum-applying-foxbat-liberally-to-champions-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/the-digital-continuum-applying-foxbat-liberally-to-champions-on/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/07/the-digital-continuum-applying-foxbat-liberally-to-champions-on/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I thought about writing about a lot of different subjects this week. I knew that I wanted to discuss Champions Online, but I couldn't decide on a topic until I played a lowbie character and re-experienced the amazing Foxbat mission in the teen levels. Then it occurred to me, that what this game sorely needs, is an event of epic proportions centered around the maniacal -- yet lovable -- super villain.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Applying Foxbat liberally to Champions Online

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Applying Foxbat liberally to Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariblood-moonchampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedfoxbatin-game-eventnemesis-confrontationnemesis-systemopinionthe-digital-continuumMon, 07 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: SWTOR's 'inquistoring' Consular conundrum]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/the-digital-continuum-swtors-inquistoring-consular-conundrum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/the-digital-continuum-swtors-inquistoring-consular-conundrum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/the-digital-continuum-swtors-inquistoring-consular-conundrum/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The revealing of Star Wars: The Old Republic's final two classes has incited much discussion amongst the community and inside my own brain. On one hand, lots of people are happy to have more Sith and Jedi classes to choose from. However, on the other hand, some people are disappointed in the lack of creative and unexpected class options.

In all reality, BioWare probably made the right choice, but let's look at the view of both sides for the sake of argument and to have a little fun.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: SWTOR's 'inquistoring' Consular conundrum

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: SWTOR's 'inquistoring' Consular conundrum originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareboba-fettbounty-hunterconsulareaelectronic-artsfeaturedhan-soloinquistorjedi-consularknights-of-the-old-republickotorlucasartsopinionsith-inquisitorstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-digital-continuumthe-old-republicMon, 30 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Federation stands for 'fighting' part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/the-digital-continuum-federation-stands-for-fighting-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/the-digital-continuum-federation-stands-for-fighting-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/the-digital-continuum-federation-stands-for-fighting-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Federation stands for 'fighting' part 2

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Federation stands for 'fighting' part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricrypticcryptic-studioskhitomer-accordsklingonklingonsopinionromulansstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestothe-digital-continuumthe-original-seriestosMon, 23 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Federation stands for 'fighting']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/the-digital-continuum-federation-stands-for-fighting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/the-digital-continuum-federation-stands-for-fighting/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/the-digital-continuum-federation-stands-for-fighting/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A new fragrance is out, and it smells exactly like the old one. It's the gentle waft of something I'm quite familiar with: Star Trek fandom. Let me preface this by saying I've been a fan of Star Trek ever since I saw an episode of The Next Generation back when my parents used to tape it every week so we could watch it as a family. So when I declare that people griping about Star Trek Online's emphasis on combat aren't true Trek fans, I know the amount of weight that statement carries.

And you know what? They really aren't true fans.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Federation stands for 'fighting'

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Federation stands for 'fighting' originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariborgcaptain-kirkcaptain-picardcryptic-studioscyrpticfeaturedgene-roddenberryjames-t-kirkjean-luc-picardkirkopinionpicardqroddenberryspockstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestothe-digital-continuumthe-next-generationthe-qtngMon, 23 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: LotRO's feature future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/the-digital-continuum-lotros-feature-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/the-digital-continuum-lotros-feature-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/the-digital-continuum-lotros-feature-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There are many wonderful features within Lord of the Rings Online, especially with Siege of Mirkwood edging upon the horizon like a merchant's ship carrying treasure chests full of shiny new features. However, for many a person, the game just doesn't click into place. Whether it's because of a missing feature or the pace of combat, some people find themselves unable to acclimate a groove.

So let's talk about features and changes that would help attract fresh blood while keeping the old guard happy -- because changing the core of an MMO is never truly a good idea, but bring in fresh blood doesn't hurt.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: LotRO's feature future

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: LotRO's feature future originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriaopinionsiege-of-mirkwoodsomthe-digital-continuumtolkienturbineTue, 17 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Five exciting MMOs in 2010, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/the-digital-continuum-five-exciting-mmos-in-2010-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/the-digital-continuum-five-exciting-mmos-in-2010-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/the-digital-continuum-five-exciting-mmos-in-2010-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Five exciting MMOs in 2010, part 2

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Five exciting MMOs in 2010, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblizzardeaelectronic-artsgazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgate-evolutionlucasartsnetdevilstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-digital-continuumtorworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 09 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Five exciting MMOs in 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/the-digital-continuum-five-exciting-mmos-in-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/the-digital-continuum-five-exciting-mmos-in-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/the-digital-continuum-five-exciting-mmos-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Space, car chases and heroic fantasies lie in wait, plotting the demise of our nights and weekends. 2010 will soon be upon us and with it a whole new set of MMO releases, which means it's time to look at some of the most exciting ones. Some are obvious, while others are surprises even to me. Overall, however, this next year is going to be pretty crazy for fans of the genre.

These are my five most exciting titles that the coming year has to offer, whether it wants to or not.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Five exciting MMOs in 2010

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Five exciting MMOs in 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbataricrypticea-partnersfeaturedgrand-theft-auto-onlinegta-onlineopinionrealtime-worldsstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestothe-digital-continuumMon, 09 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Torchlight my fire, page 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/the-digital-continuum-torchlight-my-fire-page-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/the-digital-continuum-torchlight-my-fire-page-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/the-digital-continuum-torchlight-my-fire-page-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Torchlight my fire, page 2

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Torchlight my fire, page 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diablodiablo-2diablo-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playmax-schaeferopinionperfect-worldrunic-gamessteampunkthe-digital-continuumtorchlightMon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Torchlight my fire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/the-digital-continuum-torchlight-my-fire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/the-digital-continuum-torchlight-my-fire/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/the-digital-continuum-torchlight-my-fire/#commentsFiled under: , ,

For the past week I've been delving deep into the dungeons of Runic Games' Torchlight and found the experience to be nothing short of joyous. Granted, like many other people I also wish some kind of co-op shipped with the game (even over LAN) but thankfully the developer's next project will be an MMO built upon the foundation laid down by last week's release.

My joy for this game most definitely bleeds into its MMO incarnation, which has led to far too much thinking on additions I'd like to see made. So this week, I'm going to get them all off my chest in the hopes that I'll stop obsessing over them. Of course, there's never a guarantee with these things.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Torchlight my fire

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Torchlight my fire originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzarddiablodiablo-2diablo-iifeaturedmythosperfect-worldpersistent-worldpvepvprunic-gamesthe-digital-continuumtorchlightworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: 'Comfort' grind]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/the-digital-continuum-comfort-grind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/the-digital-continuum-comfort-grind/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/the-digital-continuum-comfort-grind/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Often times grind is lambasted as the worst part of this genre, something to be minimized and removed to any and all extent. I understand all too well why; hundreds of hours of brain melting repetitiveness. Only here's the rub: the very nature of MMOs -- persistence -- creates a grind. Unless you keep it under a reasonable number of hours played, it'll turn into a festival of grind.

I used to think this was a colossal problem, yet lately I'm beginning to rethink my stance.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: 'Comfort' grind

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: 'Comfort' grind originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionblizzardborderlandscomforteqeverquestfeaturedgearbox-softwarencsoftopinionsoesony-online-entertainmentthe-digital-continuumworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 26 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: In pursuit of immersion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/the-digital-continuum-in-pursuit-of-immersion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/the-digital-continuum-in-pursuit-of-immersion/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/the-digital-continuum-in-pursuit-of-immersion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Some folks feel that immersion should trump game mechanics in a way that other find uncomfortable. Should we parley mechanics for the 'greater good' of some mystical all encompassing concept of improved immersion? Good question, and perfect for today's The Digital Continuum.

Immersion vs. mechanics, it's a theme that grabs you by the shirt collar and smacks you around a little bit -- or a lot, depending on how serious you take the discussion.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: In pursuit of immersion

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: In pursuit of immersion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionblizzardfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xincsoftopinionsquare-enixthe-digital-continuumworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowMon, 12 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Champions Online's first content lap]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/the-digital-continuum-champions-onlines-first-content-lap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/the-digital-continuum-champions-onlines-first-content-lap/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/the-digital-continuum-champions-onlines-first-content-lap/#commentsFiled under: , ,


October is here and with it comes Champions Online's first month of heavy content updates. There's all sorts of improvements and additions hitting in the coming weeks to discuss, let alone what to expect for November and beyond. Plus, the Blood Moon update sounds like a whole lot of seasonal fun. I'd be lying if I said I didn't wish there was a repeatable mission where I got to kill moping vampires.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Champions Online's first content lap

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Champions Online's first content lap originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariblood-moonchampionschampions-onlinecontentcrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedgroupingmissionsopinionpatchpvepvpthe-digital-continuumupdateTue, 06 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Champions Online needs...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/the-digital-continuum-champions-online-needs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/the-digital-continuum-champions-online-needs/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/the-digital-continuum-champions-online-needs/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Champions Online is a fun game, but it still needs work like any recently released MMO. Some of these needs are purely subjective on my part, but others are definitely a necessity. The way I see it, if Cryptic can work these changes in before the end of the year they're well on their way to keeping my subscription into the far, far future.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Champions Online needs...

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Champions Online needs... originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedframeworkopinionpowerpower-setpowersthe-digital-continuumtutorialMon, 28 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Conflict evolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/the-digital-continuum-conflict-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/the-digital-continuum-conflict-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/21/the-digital-continuum-conflict-evolution/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Conflict is at the core of just about everything. This is particularly true of MMOs, and why almost each and every single one of them is driven by conflict of some variety. For the most part that conflict is or results in combat, and as we all know, combat is probably the one thing you do most in your game of choice.

So where's it all headed?

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Conflict evolution

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Conflict evolution originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanall-points-bulletinaocapbchampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universe-onlinedcuoddo-unlimitedfeaturedfuncomrealtime-worldssoestar-trek-onlinestothe-digital-continuumturbineMon, 21 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Champions Online launch edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/14/the-digital-continuum-champions-online-launch-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/14/the-digital-continuum-champions-online-launch-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/14/the-digital-continuum-champions-online-launch-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It's been about a couple weeks since Champions Online launched, and I've been enjoying the game through the good and the bad. Yes, there have been some rough patches - particularly for early start players whose characters were designed before the big launch-day patch. So let's talk about a few of the issues some people are having with the game. Namely, I want to address the difficulty complaints that some people have been voicing, because they're not entirely wrong.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Champions Online launch edition

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Champions Online launch edition originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariblood-moonchampions-onlinecontentcrime-computercrypticcryptic-studiosdifficultyfeaturedmissionsopinionthe-digital-continuumMon, 14 Sep 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Outrageous outcomes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/the-digital-continuum-outrageous-outcomes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/the-digital-continuum-outrageous-outcomes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/31/the-digital-continuum-outrageous-outcomes/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Sometimes I can actually hear the barking, crowing and general upheaval of a community to the extent that my knee jerk response is to consume the cacophony of squawking in a great ball of churning fire. Thankfully, I always resist that urge, and much for the better. That doesn't mean I'm unwilling to share those initial feelings here, though.

There's a good reason I'm sharing an otherwise personal knee jerk reaction. Too many people don't deny the evil voice growling incessantly from the back of the mind. They allow that pure id impulse to take the journey from their -- quite temporarily deranged -- minds, down their limbs, through their fingertips and into the comments section of many a website.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Outrageous outcomes

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Outrageous outcomes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampions-onlinecommunitycrypticcryptic-studiosfeaturedidl4d2opinionsuper-egothe-digital-continuumvalveMon, 31 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Expanding horizontally ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/the-digital-continuum-expanding-horizontally/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/the-digital-continuum-expanding-horizontally/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/the-digital-continuum-expanding-horizontally/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The worlds we live in are always expanding some way or another. In our real world, we get promotions or new career opportunities. In our virtual equivalents, it's level cap raises and new classes. Yet for years and years, too many expansions have overlooked what they're truly capable of accomplishing.

In real life, we can't go back and make our teens, twenties and thirties better than they once were because that's physically impossible. So why in these worlds of infinite possibilities, have countless developers scoffed at the chance to do this very thing?

Lucky for us, Funcom and Blizzard recently both asked themselves this very question. While the latter may be doing something much more grandiose than the former, both deserve our praise for finally turning around and swimming upstream in a current of same old grind goals. Plus, it doesn't hurt that Blizzard is sitting on the Mt. Everest of money hills.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Expanding horizontally

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Expanding horizontally originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocblizzardcataclysmexpansionfeaturedfuncomopinionthe-digital-continuumworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 24 Aug 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Let the Star Wars races begin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/the-digital-continuum-let-the-star-wars-races-begin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/the-digital-continuum-let-the-star-wars-races-begin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/the-digital-continuum-let-the-star-wars-races-begin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


I've been holding off on this for a little while, but it's the kind of subject that is impossible for me to avoid indefinitely. Classes were the last topic I touched upon, and there was quite a lot of conversation. In fact, there was a whole bunch of it to follow. So let's discuss the potential races for Star Wars: The Old Republic and, as usual, feel free to toss in your thoughts and picks in the comments. It wouldn't be the same without them.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Let the Star Wars races begin

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Let the Star Wars races begin originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebounty-hunterdroiddroidseaelectronic-artsfeaturedkotorlucasartsopinionstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-digital-continuumthe-old-republictrandoshantwilekwookieezabrakMon, 17 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Changing tides in FFXIV]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/the-digital-continuum-changing-tides-in-ffxiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/the-digital-continuum-changing-tides-in-ffxiv/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/the-digital-continuum-changing-tides-in-ffxiv/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


New Final Fantasy XIV information has been quite plentiful as of late. We've had new information on races, the general lore, basics of the job system and quest system all in just a single week. If I didn't know any better, I'd think a major games event was taking place.

If there's one thing we're now aware of the most, it's that Final Fantasy XIV is looking to stab MMO fundamentals right in the heart. No experience, no levels and a job system that includes crafting as opposed to fencing it off into a separate game mechanic. These are all bold steps that have poised the game as something unlike anything else on the market.

So is it good, or is it bad? That's the topic of today's The Digital Continuum series.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Changing tides in FFXIV

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Changing tides in FFXIV originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivopinionsquare-enixthe-digital-continuumvanadielTue, 11 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Five reasons to play Champions Online part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/the-digital-continuum-five-reasons-to-play-champions-online-par/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/the-digital-continuum-five-reasons-to-play-champions-online-par/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/the-digital-continuum-five-reasons-to-play-champions-online-par/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Five reasons to play Champions Online part 2

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Five reasons to play Champions Online part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-aliasedataribusiness-modelschampions-onlinecolin-brennancrypticdaekelaunchmicrotransactionsnemesis-onlinethe-digital-continuumMon, 03 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Five reasons to play Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/the-digital-continuum-five-reasons-to-play-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/the-digital-continuum-five-reasons-to-play-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/03/the-digital-continuum-five-reasons-to-play-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's been a long wait since the announcement of Cryptic's next project, so long that some of us began to run around our houses wearing towels around our necks. Thankfully, September 1st is now less than a month away. Open beta? That's even sooner. Before we know it the game will be sitting on our desks and shelves.

So why should you be playing it come launch day? A fair enough question for any game, which is why that's the topic of today's The Digital Continuum. Hopefully in just five reasons given I'll have you convinced that come early next month, you'll be romping around Champions Online with superpowers -- tights optional.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Five reasons to play Champions Online

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Five reasons to play Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studioscustomizationfeaturednemesis-systemopen-betaopinionthe-digital-continuumMon, 03 Aug 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New details emerge on SWTOR's healing and space components]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/new-details-emerge-on-swtors-healing-and-space-components/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/new-details-emerge-on-swtors-healing-and-space-components/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/new-details-emerge-on-swtors-healing-and-space-components/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


So it looks like those lucky buggers over at IGN sat down with a couple Star Wars: The Old Republic developers and pelted them with as many questions from the community as possible. The results have made our day much brighter, and we're sure yours will benefit in much the same way.

While a lot of the questions were deflected in one way or another -- as this is a game that's probably not coming out for a while -- some tiny new pieces of information did surface. For instance, much of the community has been wondering about healing. Will the game go with the "Holy Trinity" or is something else planned? The answer appears to be a little bit of both. It sounds as though each class has the opportunity to invest resources into healing abilities. Although, BioWare is quick to point out that parties will definitely want some "healers" in higher-level situations.

Insofar as space combat is concerned, it appears that BioWare isn't talking about it, yet. Yes, they didn't flat out deny its existence in the game nor did they give confirmation, so for now we'll have to wait. A large part of the interview merely confirms things we've already known or suspected. Planets will have multiple zones, PvP is important to the team, customization will be very important and all the stuff you'd expect from a game this immense.

MassivelyNew details emerge on SWTOR's healing and space components originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsgroup-dynamicshealingholy-trinityignlucasartsstar-warsswtorthe-digital-continuumMon, 27 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: The people problem]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/the-digital-continuum-the-people-problem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/the-digital-continuum-the-people-problem/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/the-digital-continuum-the-people-problem/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


As I've spent time with Age of Conan this last week, something has been preventing me from finding a nice groove to settle down into. Mostly, it's from people being jerks. Then again, that could be what I get for venturing into a PvP server. If you haven't already guessed, this week's The Digital Continuum strives to dig down deep into what makes a community tick, and why that can potentially matter more than any game feature on the back of the box.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: The people problem

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: The people problem originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocblizzardcity-of-heroescommunityfeaturedfuncomncsoftopinionthe-digital-continuumworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 20 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Reentering the Age of Conan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/the-digital-continuum-reentering-the-age-of-conan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/the-digital-continuum-reentering-the-age-of-conan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/the-digital-continuum-reentering-the-age-of-conan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


When I decided to come back and check out Final Fantasy XI, I'm fairly certain that I was in the small minority of people returning in that moment. With Funcom offering previous subscribers a chance to take a second look at Age of Conan, I somehow doubt I'll be in a minority this time around.

So here we are, coming back to the digital realm of Hyboria just past a year since everyone first ventured into its lush and deadly landscapes. What will I find? What will I think? These are just a few of the many questions that go through my mind as I boot up the game for the first time in a while.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Reentering the Age of Conan

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Reentering the Age of Conan originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaoccimmerianfeaturedfuncomthe-digital-continuumtortagevistawindows-7windows-vistaMon, 13 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST