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[Everything you need to know about The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - zombies incoming
So what's all this hullabaloo about The Secret World? Let's start with the basics.

The Secret World is a new MMORPG by Funcom, the studio that brought you Age of Conan, and way back when, Anarchy Online. It's also the brainchild of one Ragnar Tornquist, familiar to adventure gamers the world over thanks to Dreamfall and The Longest Journey. Like those seminal titles, The Secret World seeks to conjure an immersive, fantastical realm of myth, magic, and in some cases, horror. Unlike the adventures of April Ryan, though, The Secret World is your story, and it takes place in the video game equivalent of the real world (not to mention Hell, portions of a hollow Earth, and many other mythological settings).

There's an undeniable Lovecraftian influence, there are zombies and assault rifles, and there's a three-faction setup that asks players to join forces with noted secret societies like the Templars and the Illuminati (as well as the less-familiar Dragons). Did we mention battleground PvP, a Minecraft-inspired crafting system, and skill-based progression mechanics that depart from traditional MMORPG classes and levels in favor of player-made builds (drawn from a pool of nearly 600 distinct abilities)?

As you can see, Funcom is throwing everything at the wall, and luckily for you, Massively has been keeping tabs on the game's development for a number of years now. We've also managed to spend quite a bit of time in the beta of late. Click past the cut for a roundup of our best coverage, including guides, impressions, interviews, and basically everything you want to know about The Secret World.

Continue reading Everything you need to know about The Secret World

MassivelyEverything you need to know about The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologypreviewpreviewsroundupsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-rounduptswtsw-roundupFri, 25 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World launch delayed to July 3rd]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-secret-world-launch-delayed-to-july-3rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-secret-world-launch-delayed-to-july-3rd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/the-secret-world-launch-delayed-to-july-3rd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Secret World Image
The Dragons, Templars, and Illuminati will have to wait two more weeks to dive into their organizations: Originally slated for June 19th, The Secret World's release is delayed until July 3rd. Early access will open on June 29th.

Funcom also announced the final two beta weekends. The first, titled "Hell Raised,'" will run from June 15th until June 17th and will include the Illuminati and Dragon starter experiences as well as allow players to leave Kingsmouth for the Savage Coast. The final beta weekend will be from June 22nd to June 24th; during this event players will participate in the game's PvP in both the warzone gameplay and the Eldorado battlefield.

MassivelyThe Secret World launch delayed to July 3rd originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-weekendbeta-weekend-eventbeta-weekendsdelayed-launchfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorlaunch-delaymythologynewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswFri, 25 May 2012 07:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World ARG launches as social experience winds down]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/the-secret-world-arg-launches-as-social-experience-winds-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/the-secret-world-arg-launches-as-social-experience-winds-down/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/the-secret-world-arg-launches-as-social-experience-winds-down/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Secret World
The Secret World's Secret War social experience has run its course and come to a close after an exciting five weeks. More than 250,000 people participated in the war, rallying to the cause of their chosen secret society, filling forums with discussion and theories and welcoming each new War Challenge as it was rolled out. Along the way, players have been unlocking items for use in TSW, with a special few winning the opportunity to have their name in-game and an even more special few winning a trip to visit the dev team.

But that's the past, and now the glorious present awaits you. Three new videos have made their way onto The Secret War's page and each one holds a clue. The clues lead to different puzzles (one for each secret society) for players to solve. That's about all there is to know about these puzzles so far, but we're promised that they are "the start of a very exciting adventure" for participants -- so pull out your tinfoil hats and get crackin'!

[Source: Funcom press release]

MassivelyThe Secret World ARG launches as social experience winds down originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternate-reality-gameargfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-warsecret-war-facebooksecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-warthe-secret-worldtswvideoThu, 24 May 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Raising hell in The Secret World's Hell Raised instance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/raising-hell-in-the-secret-worlds-hell-raised-instance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/raising-hell-in-the-secret-worlds-hell-raised-instance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/raising-hell-in-the-secret-worlds-hell-raised-instance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Seems legit.
Welcome to The Secret World's Overlook Motel, where the sheets are clean, the service is friendly, and there's an ominous doorway to Hell in every room. Such is the beginning of the second instanced dungeon of Funcom's upcoming horror-fantasy MMO, which sees players descending deep into the bowels of the underworld to put an end to a raging demonic war that's causing Hell to leak through to the real world.

I had the pleasure of joining Funcom's Tor Andersen on a guided tour of Hell Raised, the first in a series of three dungeons that take place in the fiery depths, and boy did I ever have a hell of a time (sorry). If you're interested in finding out what awaits players of The Secret World in the depths of Hades itself, follow along with me as I give you the ins-and-outs of surviving a confrontation in the midst of an infernal warzone.

Continue reading Raising hell in The Secret World's Hell Raised instance

MassivelyRaising hell in The Secret World's Hell Raised instance originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeondungeonsfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhands-onhell-raisedhorrorinstanceinstancesmythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswThu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's mission system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-mission-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-mission-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-mission-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Kingsmouth quest NPC
So The Secret World's mission system treads well off the beaten MMO path. It's pretty cool, actually, though portions of it may irritate quest-grinders who just want to blow through zones on their way to the game's equivalent of a max-level toon.

For the rest of us, there's a nifty interface, some challenging puzzles, and plenty of well-written quest text and dialogue to keep us entertained for weeks at a time.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's mission system

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's mission system originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-gamesfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhorrorkingsmouthmythologypreviewpreviewsragnar-tornquistsci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-impressionssecret-world-mission-guidesecret-world-missionsskill-basedsupply-runthe-kingsmouth-codethe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-mission-guidethe-secret-world-press-betatswtsw-guidestsw-quest-guidetsw-questingThu, 17 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's combat system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-combat-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-combat-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-combat-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Dead zombies
The Secret World's press beta hasn't been what I expected. To be frank, I'd say there are times I wish I didn't have to play it. See, my guild pals are on either the closed beta server or the public beta weekends server, both of which are quite crowded and therefore offer quite a different experience from the forlorn existence endured by my Massively Templar.

There's also the whole I-don't-get-to-keep-this-character thing, not to mention the wow-this-is-cool-and-I-don't-want-to-spoil-it-for-myself-post-launch thing.

On the other hand, I've had plenty of time to muck around with game systems and minutiae, something that my card-carrying membership in the crazy carebear immersionist secret society often precludes. For this week's press beta article, then, I thought I'd give you guys a primer on The Secret World's combat system.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's combat system

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's combat system originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-combatsecret-world-guidesskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-combatthe-secret-world-guidesthe-secret-world-press-betatswtsw-combattsw-guidesWed, 16 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World
Massively Speaking Episode 201 gets into all of your dirty little secrets -- not to mention Funcom's, as well! We're joined by Jef, who gives us the full scoop on The Secret World now that the NDA's come tumbling down. Will this be another Failcom or possibly a Fabulouscom? Only Jef knows, and he's highly resistant to torture and bribery.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
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[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrantbrian-greenbrian-psychchild-greenbrianna-roycebricksbrowserbrowser-basedddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineearthrisef2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomguild-wars-2gw2historicalhorrorhumorjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-speakingmastheadmasthead-studiosmythologynamastenamaste-entertainmentnamaste-incncsoftnew-englandopinionparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathpgcplayer-generated-contentpodcastpodcastingpodcastspsychochildsalemsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedstorybricksthe-secret-worldtswturbineturbine-entertainmentvirtual-worldwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 201Massively.com Staff01:03:33podcasts<![CDATA[Next beta weekend for The Secret World announced]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I maintain that this really isn't all that unusual for New England.
If you enjoyed the first peek into the secrets of Funcom's upcoming game, you'll be happy to know that The Secret World's second beta event has already been announced. The next weekend event starts on May 18th at noon EDT and runs until May 21st at 3:00 a.m. EDT. Several European sites will be giving away keys for this particular beta, but players who have pre-ordered the game beforehand will automatically have access to this event.

The new event will feature a number of new areas, quests, and storylines. Players can learn more about the residents of Kingsmouth who have held out despite the town's current state as well as meet representatives of the Orochi Corporation observing the dark occurrences. Plus, all of the previous weekend's content will be available, so if you didn't get a chance to take part in the last test, you'll have plenty to explore within the horror-filled world.

MassivelyNext beta weekend for The Secret World announced originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testsbeta-weekendeventsfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorin-game-eventsmythologynewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedtest-weekendtesting-eventsthe-secret-worldtswMon, 14 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's skill system detailed in new video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/the-secret-worlds-skill-system-detailed-in-new-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/the-secret-worlds-skill-system-detailed-in-new-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/the-secret-worlds-skill-system-detailed-in-new-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - $6.66 per gallon
If you're staring down the barrel of The Secret World's first beta weekend and you're a little bit daunted by the game's 500-plus skills or its classless progression system, don't despair. Funcom has released an eight-minute video designed to teach you the basics and get your paranormal adventures off on the right foot.

The ability wheel breaks everything down into one of three categories: melee, magic, or ranged. Each is subdivided a further three times into different types of weapons (blood magic, blades, rifles, etc.). Technically you can learn every ability in the game, but you can only equip 14 at a time (seven active and seven passive), and you're also limited to equipping two weapons simultaneously. Your 14 abilities, when paired with your weapons of choice, make up your build, and half the fun in The Secret World is trying out all the possible permutations.

Learn more after the break, and don't forget to check out our Secret World press beta impressions while you're at it.

Continue reading The Secret World's skill system detailed in new video

MassivelyThe Secret World's skill system detailed in new video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildsfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskill-deckthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-buildstrailertswtsw-ability-wheeltsw-buildstsw-skill-videovideoFri, 11 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World character creator]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Image
The real secret to The Secret World is that it's the Matrix (see the above picture from the character creator that resembles Carrie-Anne Moss).

Actually, the first and most important stop for an MMO gamer is the character creator. When you're in beta, it might not be as important because the character will be tossed away in a few short weeks. However, in the live game, this character will not only be the same one you might see for years to come; it's also a reflection of you as a player. There are some players who insist on playing the ugliest races in the game, while others want the prettiest or the strongest. Personally, I lean toward playing female characters. I'm not sure what that says about me.

The creation of our character says so much about us, so it is extremely important that western RPGs and especially MMORPGs allow us to express ourselves. The Secret World's character creator has its good elements and its bad, but the most important part is how much Funcom's version allows us to express our personalities.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World character creator

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World character creator originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaoccharacter-creatoreaElectronic-ArtsfantasyfeaturedFirst-Impressionsfuncomhands-onhorrormythologyopinionpreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldthe-secret-worldtrailertrailerstswvideovideo-previewvideosFri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion dev posts ARG messages on RIFT forums]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/trion-dev-posts-arg-messages-on-rift-forums/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/trion-dev-posts-arg-messages-on-rift-forums/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/trion-dev-posts-arg-messages-on-rift-forums/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT - ARGing since 2012
Trion is taking a page out of The Secret World's ARG book if a new dev post on the RIFT forums is any indication.

A company representative has taken to posting poetry, cryptic messages, and even a numeric user handle on the title's official boards. Thus far, RIFT fans believe that the user name 3 3228466 787 is code for three-faction PvP (or possibly three-faction RvR). Is this a herald for a third RIFT faction, factional changes, more races, or something to do with the mercenary system? We're not sure.

We are sure it's entirely coincidental that Trion is doing this on the same day that Funcom has lifted part of its press embargo for The Secret World, a three-faction MMO that has been marketed via similar ARGs since 2007. We'll update the post as more info becomes available.

[Thanks to Jeff for the tip!]

MassivelyTrion dev posts ARG messages on RIFT forums originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction-pvpalternate-reality-gameargfantasyfuncomhorrorriftrift-3-faction-pvprift-literift-planes-of-telararift-rvrsci-fantasysecret-worldthe-secret-worldthree-faction-pvptriontrion-worldstswFri, 11 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's Illuminati experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-illuminati-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-illuminati-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-illuminati-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Illuminati
Dark days are upon us, and I, for one, couldn't be more pleased. For the past few days I've had the pleasure of exploring the dark corners of the press beta for Funcom's upcoming horror-fantasy MMO, The Secret World, and now the embargo is up and I'm finally able to share my impressions with all of you.

You may recall that I got some hands-on time with the title at PAX East earlier this year and came away from the experience fairly pleased. But that was an hour of playtime at the most, so how does the game hold up with extended play? I decided to hop into the (rather stylish) boots of an Illuminati initiate to find out for myself.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's Illuminati experience

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's Illuminati experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factionfantasyfuncomhands-onhorrorilluminatiimpressionskingsmouthmythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-press-betatswFri, 11 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's Templar experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-templar-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-templar-experience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-templar-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Don't mind this hollow earth portal
Believing in The Secret World takes a certain of amount of... faith. And I'm not just talking about Funcom's less-than-stellar reputation when it comes to bug-free MMO launches. No, the very foundation of this particular title rests on a narrative about things unseen, and that cryptic, otherworldly esoterica informed every moment of my time spent in the press beta over the last couple of days.

The basic premise, of course, is that everything is true. Every myth, legend, and spook story that our rational minds scoff at has a place in this particular riff on reality.

The Secret World is also quite heretical when it comes to gameplay. It eschews the tried and true class-based approach for a complex grimoire of a skill system featuring an ability wheel made of hieroglyphs and higher math (or so it first appears). To come right to the point, though, I bought into the game almost immediately.

Gallery: The Secret World - Press Beta (Templars)

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's Templar experience

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's Templar experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factionfantasyfeaturedfuncomgame-mechanicshorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-hands-onsecret-world-previewsecret-world-templarsskill-basedskill-systemtemplar-starter-experiencetemplar-starting-experiencetemplarsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-press-betatswtsw-skillstsw-templarsFri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World reaches one million beta signups]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/the-secret-world-reaches-one-million-beta-signups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/the-secret-world-reaches-one-million-beta-signups/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/the-secret-world-reaches-one-million-beta-signups/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Secret World
It's hard to fathom how you can have "secret" societies when over a million new people know about them, but somehow we don't think Funcom's sweating the security breach. In fact, the studio seems quite proud of the fact that a million players have signed up to test The Secret World. The Facebook tie-in is also getting record views, with almost two million visits over the past few weeks.

Senior Vice President Morten Larssen sees this as a shining omen for a dark world: "Shattering our previous beta records gives us great hope for The Secret World's launch and its future. Combining this positive number with the excellent feedback we have received from both beta testers and the press that have played the game, make us very optimistic for a successful launch of The Secret World."

Anyone who's pre-ordered The Secret World can get in on tomorrow's beta weekend, the first of several that Funcom's planning in the lead up to release. This beta weekend will be focused on the Templar starting experience and the area of Solomon Island.

MassivelyThe Secret World reaches one million beta signups originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-signupsbeta-weekendfacebookfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorMorten-Larssenmythologyone-millionpre-orderpublic-betasci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsolomon-islandtemplarthe-secret-worldtswThu, 10 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World announces first beta weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/the-secret-world-announces-first-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/the-secret-world-announces-first-beta-weekend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/the-secret-world-announces-first-beta-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
Beta weekends are all the rage these days, and now Funcom is getting in on the action. The studio has announced that its upcoming fantasy-horror MMO, The Secret World, will be the subject of a series of weekend beta tests, the first of which is beginning this weekend.

From Friday until Sunday, players who were lucky enough to get their hands on beta keys via preorders or giveaways will be able to jump into the boots of a Templar initiate. After undergoing the proper procedures for joining the less-than-secretive secret organization, players will be whisked away to Solomon Island, New England, where they will be tasked with finding the source of the ancient evil threatening Kingsmouth. The full details of the beta weekend, including a handy-dandy FAQ, can be found over at The Secret World's official site.

MassivelyThe Secret World announces first beta weekend originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-weekendbeta-weekendsbetascbtclosed-beta-weekendfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorkingsmouthmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsolomon-islandtemplarthe-secret-worldtswTue, 08 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret War draws over 200,000 players to its Facebook battle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-secret-war-draws-over-200-000-players-to-its-facebook-battle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-secret-war-draws-over-200-000-players-to-its-facebook-battle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-secret-war-draws-over-200-000-players-to-its-facebook-battle/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Secret World
Funcom's Facebook prologue to The Secret World is a sizable success, even if it had a rocky beginning. The studio reports that over 200,000 players have taken the side of one of the game's three factions and are supporting their side through this "unique browser-based social experience."

Over the course of two weeks, participants have unleashed 50 million agents as part of the event, visited the site 1,200,000 times, and spent an average of 20 minutes each visit participating in the game. Since launching The Secret War, Funcom's added goals for the factions to work toward each week. The current prize is a Heart of Africa health talisman.

Two-hundred thousand participants is a solid win for Senior Vice President Morten Larssen, who sees this as an excellent way to prepare players for the factional struggle of the MMO: "This conflict has always been a key driver for activity in our own community, and we are excited to see that more and more people are coming in to join the conflict from outside the community as well."

[Source: Funcom press release]

MassivelyThe Secret War draws over 200,000 players to its Facebook battle originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Guild Wars 2
Massively Speaking Episode 198 is pumped up about open beta season, as games like Guild Wars 2, TERA, and Diablo III promote their wares through shameless stress test weekends. Does it whet the appetite or serve as a potent first dose of a drug that will drag us down into the gutters of addiction and achievement-hunting? Who cares! Jack us in to the Matrix, baby!

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 198: Open beta madness!

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 198: Open beta madness! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpganetarenanetbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosbrantbrianna-roycecash-shopcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxcrypticcryptic-studiosd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiieaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomfuncomgothic-fantasyguild-wars-2gw2horrorhumorjustin-olivettilucasartsmassively-speakingmultiplayermythologyncsoftonline-multiplayeropinionparagonparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpodcastpodcastingpodcastspweroguelikerpgsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstosubsubscription-feesuperherosuperheroesswtorterathe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtortswTue, 24 Apr 2012 14:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 198Massively.com Staff56:47podcasts<![CDATA[Funcom temporarily takes The Secret World Facebook tie-in offline]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/funcom-temporarily-takes-the-secret-world-facebook-tie-in-offlin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/funcom-temporarily-takes-the-secret-world-facebook-tie-in-offlin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/funcom-temporarily-takes-the-secret-world-facebook-tie-in-offlin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Secret War loading screen
Earlier today Funcom pulled its new Secret War game from Facebook. The minigame launched yesterday in an attempt to drum up interest in the upcoming The Secret World MMO.

We've received a few news tips and heard a few rumors as to why the game was taken offline, so we decided to contact Funcom directly for the full scoop. Director of communications Erling Ellingsen gave us the low-down:
What's happened is that the activity levels on sharing to Facebook has been significantly higher than expected, and we have been asked by Facebook to make certain adjustments. So we are taking down the experience now and will be bringing it up again once the necessary adjustments have been made.

Even shortly after launch yesterday we had tens of thousands of people playing and sharing actively, so the interest for the experience has been very high.
And there you have it. We'll update the story as Funcom brings The Secret War back online or if there are any further developments.

[Thanks to Adam for the tip!]

MassivelyFuncom temporarily takes The Secret World Facebook tie-in offline originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>erling-ellingsenfactionfantasyfuncomfuncom-secret-warhorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-warsecret-war-facebooksecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-warthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-facebooktswThu, 19 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom giving away in-game prizes, studio trips via The Secret World Facebook tie-in]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/funcom-giving-away-in-game-prizes-studio-trips-via-the-secret-w/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/funcom-giving-away-in-game-prizes-studio-trips-via-the-secret-w/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/funcom-giving-away-in-game-prizes-studio-trips-via-the-secret-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Secret World - all your personal info are belong to us
There's something decidedly ironic about a conspiracy-laden game rife with (fictional) secrets and sensitive information taking to Facebook to advertise itself. Funcom's new The Secret World MMO is doing just that, though, thanks to a tie-in game called The Secret War that kicked off last night.

Docholidaymmo.com reports that the new Facebook game grants in-game prizes for The Secret World (in the form of cosmetic gear, potions, and starter weapons). Funcom is also giving away eight trips to its Montreal development studio as well as a chance to get your name embedded in The Secret World's retail client. Still not enough for you? How about chances to win access to the title's upcoming beta weekends?

You'll need to head to the official Secret War site and link your Facebook account (or your fake Facebook account, according to the report). After you've done so, each of your Facebook friends who is playing the game will go into your pool of agents and may be assigned toward the ultimate goal of world domination.

The Secret World is now available for pre-order and launches June 19th.

MassivelyFuncom giving away in-game prizes, studio trips via The Secret World Facebook tie-in originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-warthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-facebooktswWed, 18 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Exploring the dark corners of The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/pax-east-2012-exploring-the-dark-corners-of-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/pax-east-2012-exploring-the-dark-corners-of-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/pax-east-2012-exploring-the-dark-corners-of-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
As anyone around the Massively offices can tell you, I am eagerly-bordering-on-obsessively awaiting the release of Funcom's latest entry into the MMO market, The Secret World. I'm all about the supernatural, occult, and paranormal, and The Secret World's "all the myths are true" philosophy is right up my alley, so when I heard that there would be a playable demo at PAX East 2012, it was all I could do not to squeal like a 12-year-old girl (and I may have done so anyway).

Of course, many people are hesitant about the title. Between The Secret World's subscription-cum-microtransactions business model and Funcom's track record of poor launches and bug-laden games, some gamers are finding themselves hesitant to get hyped up for the game's June 19th launch. Of course, I'd be lying if I said I weren't at least a bit cautious myself, regardless of my enthusiasm for the game. So how is the game shaping up? Well, sit down, grab yourself a drink, and let me tell you what I think.

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Exploring the dark corners of The Secret World

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Exploring the dark corners of The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventionexpofactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhands-onhorrorkingsmouthmythologypaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedtemplartemplarsthe-secret-worldtswWed, 11 Apr 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 196: Tales from PAX East]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/massively-speaking-episode-196-tales-from-pax-east/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/massively-speaking-episode-196-tales-from-pax-east/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/massively-speaking-episode-196-tales-from-pax-east/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Matt at PAX
Massively Speaking Episode 196 takes us to the front lines of PAX East 2012, where the Massively team combed through all the latest and greatest exhibits and demos to find all the juicy revelations and impressions that will fill your hype tanks until the next convention. Eliot and Matt join us to give us all the latest and greatest (swag).

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 196: Tales from PAX East

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 196: Tales from PAX East originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobrantbrianna-roycecrypticcryptic-studiosdndeliotf2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomhorrorhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmattmythologyneverwinteropinionpaxpax-eastpax-east-2012perfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpodcastpodcastingpodcastspwesci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswTue, 10 Apr 2012 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 196Massively.com Staff01:02:29podcasts<![CDATA[The Secret World's PAX recap video talks PvP, progression]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/the-secret-worlds-pax-recap-video-talks-pvp-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/the-secret-worlds-pax-recap-video-talks-pvp-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/the-secret-worlds-pax-recap-video-talks-pvp-progression/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - PAX East 2012 booth
If you couldn't make it to PAX on Easter sunday, you can at least catch up on the happenings around Funcom's The Secret World booth thanks to a new video that the firm recently uploaded to its YouTube portal.

The clip is about six minutes long, and it splices together random con-goer interviews with gameplay footage of The Secret World's ability wheel and progression system. Also featured is Funcom community manager Glen "Famine" Swan, who says that he is excited about the game's "persistent PvP, because [it's] doing a lot of grass-roots stuff that [he] grew up with in the MMO genre."

Famine also touches on the TSW's three-faction design as well as the fact that the PvP game is ever-changing and filled with progression-related rewards. If you're not so much into the PvP, don't fret, since you can still PvE with your friends regardless of which faction you choose. Check out the full clip after the break.

Continue reading The Secret World's PAX recap video talks PvP, progression

MassivelyThe Secret World's PAX recap video talks PvP, progression originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ability-wheelconconventionexpofactionfaminefantasyfuncomglen-swanhorrormythologypaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expoprogressionpvpsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswvideoMon, 09 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: The Secret World demo]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-the-secret-world-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-the-secret-world-demo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-the-secret-world-demo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

He wants to believe like I want to love this game. Can I get this shirt?
Funcom's The Secret World has had a big weekend at PAX East with its first public chance for hands-on interaction! It's a game that's been stirring up quite a bit of interest; the classless, level-less progression system, secret societies, and sword-and-automatic-rifle genre-bending are just a few of its selling points. My ears tend to perk up when the game gets mentioned, so of course I was all but falling over myself to hop into the playable demo this weekend. Walking away from that experience, though, I'm unconvinced.

Continue reading PAX East 2012: The Secret World demo

MassivelyPAX East 2012: The Secret World demo originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventiondemoexpofactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhands-onhorrormythologypaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswSat, 07 Apr 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Shut up about Mass Effect edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-mmo-report-shut-up-about-mass-effect-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-mmo-report-shut-up-about-mass-effect-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-mmo-report-shut-up-about-mass-effect-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey tells everyone to stop whining about Mass Effect 3's ending, laments the loss of the "online" part of Warhammer 40K: Dark Millennium Online, touches on the World of Darkness keynote, and outlines The Secret World's preorder plans. He also reveals the identity of one of TERA's key voice actors: Michael Hogan (of Battlestar Galactica fame), who will play Samael in the final game. Finally, he pulls one measly letter from the mailbag and debates which class he represents in TERA.

Enjoy the full MMO Report after the cut!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Shut up about Mass Effect edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Shut up about Mass Effect edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioscasey-schreinerccpccp-gamesdark-millenniumdark-millennium-onlinedmoen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfactionfantasyfuncomgothichorrorhumormass-effect-3me3michael-hoganmmo-reportmythologynewsopinionroundupsamaelsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedsupernaturalterathe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtswvampirevampiresvideovideosvigilvigil-gamesvoice-actorvoice-overwar40kwar40k-dmowarhammerwarhammer-40000-dark-millennium-onlinewarhammer-40kwarhammer-40k-dark-millennium-onlinewhite-wolfwodworld-of-darknessThu, 05 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you like beta weekends?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-beta-weekends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-beta-weekends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-daily-grind-do-you-like-beta-weekends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2 - charr warriors
I'm not sure when this whole "beta weekend" craze began, but with The Secret World now joining the likes of TERA and Guild Wars 2 in parceling out its pre-release access, it's safe to say that staggered testing weekends are the new norm.

Personally I'm not a fan, as my weekend gaming time ranges from limited to non-existent, and if I'm hyped enough to play a marketing beta, I'd just as soon play it several hours a night. It's especially aggravating in the case of Guild Wars 2 and TERA, both of which can't even be bothered to turn on their testing servers every weekend!

What about you, morning crew? Do you like beta weekends?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you like beta weekends? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbetabeta-weekendsbeta-weekends-suckblueholebluehole-studiosdaily-grinden-masseen-masse-entertainmentfactionfantasyfuncomguild-wars-2gw2horrormarketing-betamythologyncsoftopinionsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedtdgterathe-daily-grindthe-secret-worldtswThu, 05 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World reveals Hell]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-secret-world-reveals-hell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-secret-world-reveals-hell/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/the-secret-world-reveals-hell/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Welcome to Hell
Last month, Massively sent freelancer François Blondin to Funcom's studio in Montreal to check out the latest and greatest from The Secret World. His original write-up from the latest Montreal event was his second look at the game, but one part was still under NDA: Hell. In this article, Frank will discuss his impressions of Hell in the game.

Remember the movie Constantine with Keanu Reeves? Remember what Hell looked like there, when he stared into the cat eyes and moved to that realm? Well, this version of Hell is just like that -- with you in the middle.

In The Secret World, Funcom brings us a stunning Hell, with burning winds that scorch the landscape, making things hard to see, silencing you completely when you're in the winds, and burning your precious skin to a crisp if you stand in it too long. You have to run from cover to cover to stop the damage you're taking and allow to use your abilities. But the cover is never safe; enemies are waiting for you.

Continue reading The Secret World reveals Hell

MassivelyThe Secret World reveals Hell originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeondungeonsfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomhellhorrorimpressionsmontrealmythologypreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldtswThu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World pre-order packages feature beta access, lifetime sub, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/pre-order-the-secret-world-to-get-in-game-exclusives-beta-acces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/pre-order-the-secret-world-to-get-in-game-exclusives-beta-acces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/pre-order-the-secret-world-to-get-in-game-exclusives-beta-acces/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - creepy haunted mansion
If you're like the Massively staff, pretty much any news on The Secret World is met with some variation on "please Funcom, take my money!" Well, today the company is ready to do just that via the game's pre-order system.

Pre-order customers will get automatic access to all of the game's beta weekends beginning on May 11th, and Funcom says that these weekends should run pretty much constantly through The Secret World's June 19th launch date. You'll also get a four-day head start, an in-game item that boosts your XP gain, an in-game t-shirt, a combat pet, and a leg up on naming your character prior to launch.

Clicking the pre-order button on TSW's website will kickstart the process and show you three optional packages that include extra character slots, name reservations, and even a lifetime subscription. If you're on a budget, the basic $49.99 pre-order comes with three character slots and one name reservation.

Finally, Funcom has put together a pulse-pounding pre-order trailer -- view it after the break.

[Source: Funcom press release]

Continue reading The Secret World pre-order packages feature beta access, lifetime sub, and more

MassivelyThe Secret World pre-order packages feature beta access, lifetime sub, and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologypre-order-betapre-order-bonus-itemssci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-pre-orderskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-pre-ordertswvideoTue, 03 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Horsesteak edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-mmo-report-horsesteak-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-mmo-report-horsesteak-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/the-mmo-report-horsesteak-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The MMO Report
In tonight's ultra-short MMO Report, Casey complains that Phantasy Star Online 2 will launch for mobile platforms ahead of PC, drools all over the integration of DUST 514 and EVE Online, maintains a weirdly neutral face while discussing Anarchy Online's graphical overhaul, and regales us with an explanation of The Secret World's class-less game mechanics. He ends on a high note with a peek into Uncle Casey's mailbag and some mockery of World of Warcraft players' forum campaign to undo the latest round of Warlock nerfs. No one's ever done that before.

All this and some tips on Icelandic cuisine in the video beyond the cut!

Continue reading The MMO Report: Horsesteak edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Horsesteak edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanarchy-onlineaoblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcasey-schreinerccpccp-gamesdustdust-514eveeve-fanfest-2012eve-onlinefanfest-2012funcomhorrorhumoricelandmmo-reportnewsopinionPhantasy-Star-Online-2pso2roundupsecret-worldthe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtswvideovideosworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 29 Mar 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's lead designer explains abilities, skills, gear, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/the-secret-worlds-lead-designer-explains-abilities-skills-gea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - beta ability wheel
Funcom's been pretty quiet since its GDC reveal of The Secret World. Today, though, lead designer Martin Bruusgaard has dropped the smack down on the information void via a lengthy blog post on the game's official site.

You'll probably want a couple of caffeinated beverages for this one because Bruusgaard has a lot to say about The Secret World's abilities, skills, gear, progression, and crafting systems. We would try to summarize it for you, but we'd still be typing this time tomorrow, so suffice it to say that basically every mechanical question you have about the game is at least touched on in this post.

There are plenty of interesting tidbits too, like the fact that TSW is shaping up to be one of the more non-linear experiences to be found among the latest crop of AAA MMORPGs. "The players are free to go wherever they want from the beginning, but they will most likely get their ass handed to them in the more difficult zones," Bruusgaard explains.

MassivelyThe Secret World's lead designer explains abilities, skills, gear, and more originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-blogdev-diaryfactionfantasyfuncomhorrormartin-bruusgaardmechanicsmythologyprogressionsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskillsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-craftingthe-secret-world-mechanicsthe-secret-world-progressiontswMon, 26 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get some hands-on time with The Secret World at PAX East]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/get-some-hands-on-time-with-the-secret-world-at-pax-east/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/get-some-hands-on-time-with-the-secret-world-at-pax-east/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/get-some-hands-on-time-with-the-secret-world-at-pax-east/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Dragon starter experience
Tired of taking our word about The Secret World? Well, if you're going to next month's PAX East convention, you can get some hands-on time with Funcom's upcoming title yourself.

The full Templar faction starter experience as well as the haunted town of Kingsmouth will be on display, and all the action happens at booth 260 on the show floor. Funcom is also giving away 10,000 Illuminati, Templar, and Dragon dog tags, each of which contains a key code that grants access to TSW's beta weekends.

PAX East runs from April 6th through April 8th in Boston, Massachusetts. More info is available at the event's official website.

[Source: Funcom press release]

MassivelyGet some hands-on time with The Secret World at PAX East originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betafactionfantasyfuncomhorrormythologypaxpax-eastpax-east-2012real-world-eventssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-demotswtsw-beta-keystsw-demoThu, 22 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/the-secret-world-offers-up-a-video-diary-on-freeform-progression/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Okay. Maybe this is okay. Maybe it just wants a bacon strip.
The Secret World is going to feature a lot of different monsters to contend with, and that means a lot of different tricks to deal with all of them. We've known for a while that the game will feature a freeform skill system, but in a recent video diary the development staff shows off some of these freeform skills in action and in visual flow. As stated before, players can pick any different combination of skills and abilities from the skill wheel, with the big key simply being to look for synergy between your various abilities.

Regardless of what your character has unlocked, you'll be limited to seven active abilities and seven passive abilities at any given time, thereby ensuring that more experienced characters will have more options rather than more raw power. The video also talks about templates to help guide new players and the game's equipment system, all of which emphasize the role of players in determining how they want to play. If this sounds right up your alley, take a look at the full video diary just past the break.

Continue reading The Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression

MassivelyThe Secret World offers up a video diary on freeform progression originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesdev-diarydeveloper-diaryfactionfantasyfreeform-progressionfuncomgame-mechanicshorrormechanicsmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedskill-progressionskillsthe-secret-worldtswvideovideosWed, 21 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Watch Funcom's full The Secret World presentation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/gdc-2012-watch-funcoms-full-the-secret-world-presentation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/gdc-2012-watch-funcoms-full-the-secret-world-presentation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/gdc-2012-watch-funcoms-full-the-secret-world-presentation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

TSW
If you found your appetite whetted for The Secret World after reading Jef's writeup from GDC, then make room in your life for 35 minutes of Funcom's full presentation from the conference! Senior Producer Ragnar Tørnquist, Lead Designer Martin Bruusgaard, and Lead Content Designer Joel Bylos take turns showing off in-game footage and discussing the game mechanics at play.

Topics covered in the presentation include character creation, the creepy/sexy Dragon starter experience, how achievements work, story, crafting, and the lands of Transylvania.

While the video isn't 100% pristine -- Funcom apologized for the less-than-perfect lighting during the presentation -- it's so chock-full of information and footage that you won't even notice. Give it a whirl after the jump!

Continue reading GDC 2012: Watch Funcom's full The Secret World presentation

MassivelyGDC 2012: Watch Funcom's full The Secret World presentation originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementscharacter-creationcraftingdragonfactionfantasyfuncomgdcgdc-2012horrorJoel-Byloslesbian-sexloreMartin-BruusgaardmythologypresentationRagnar-Tørnquistsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedstorythe-secret-worldtransylvaniatswMon, 19 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: Is The Secret World a sandbox?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/some-assembly-required-is-the-secret-world-a-sandbox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/some-assembly-required-is-the-secret-world-a-sandbox/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/some-assembly-required-is-the-secret-world-a-sandbox/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required - Is The Secret World a sandbox?
I'm more excited than I thought I would be for The Secret World. After playing it at last week's Game Developer's Conference and getting a preview of the game's crafting system, I think it's safe to say my anticipation went up a few notches.

The real-world setting and horror-fantasy elements have always been appealing, but a general lack of info throughout 2011 -- coupled with Funcom's decision to add a cash shop to a subscription game -- conspired to knock The Secret World down a few pegs. Now I'm almost willing to forgive the business model faux pas because it seems like the game will feature significant sandbox elements.

Is it a sandbox, though?

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Is The Secret World a sandbox?

MassivelySome Assembly Required: Is The Secret World a sandbox? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conspiracycraftingfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomgame-mechanicshorroris-the-secret-world-a-sandboxjoel-bylosmartin-bruusgaardmmo-storymythologyopinionpgcplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsandboxsandparksarsci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsome-assembly-requiredstorythe-secret-worldthemeparktradeskillingtradeskillstswuser-generated-contentFri, 16 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: The Secret World's crafting, combat (and cutscenes) revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/gdc-2012-the-secret-worlds-crafting-combat-and-cutscenes-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/gdc-2012-the-secret-worlds-crafting-combat-and-cutscenes-re/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/gdc-2012-the-secret-worlds-crafting-combat-and-cutscenes-re/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World
Funcom's hush-hush demo at last week's Game Developer's Conference was quite a bit of fun, even if the opening few minutes treaded perilously close to wince-inducing. The Secret World creative director Ragnar Tornquist kicked things off with a brief introduction, which was followed by a look at the game's character creation as experienced by a female Dragon-faction avatar.

Once that was complete, we got an eyeful of some opening cinematics, and I do mean an eyeful. If you've never watched a lesbian makeout scene alongside a half dozen sweaty male game journos (and a couple of pretty PR girls), well, let's just say that it's hilarious to think about now and fairly awkward to actually experience.

Continue reading GDC 2012: The Secret World's crafting, combat (and cutscenes) revealed

MassivelyGDC 2012: The Secret World's crafting, combat (and cutscenes) revealed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awkward-lesbian-cinematic-is-awkwardbuild-abilitiesbuildersconconferenceconventioncraftingfactionfantasyfeaturedfuncomgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012horrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-ability-wheelsecret-world-craftingsecret-world-skillsskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-craftingtradeskillstranscribingtswThu, 15 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom stock price could 'double or triple' depending on success of The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/funcom-stock-price-could-double-or-triple-depending-on-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/funcom-stock-price-could-double-or-triple-depending-on-success/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/funcom-stock-price-could-double-or-triple-depending-on-success/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - creature concept art
Funcom has a lot riding on The Secret World, and a new piece at MCV outlines stock prospects for the company as the horror-conspiracy MMORPG's June 19th launch date draws nearer.

Funcom stock has risen dramatically on the Norwegian Stock Exchange since last summer, and analysts expect further growth leading up to The Secret World's release. After that, though, the predictions aren't as clear given the significant fluctuations in Funcom's stock price since its 2005 introduction.

MCV notes that shares peaked with 2008's Age of Conan release, but prices dropped significantly soon after as the game "didn't make the expected sales impact." Nonetheless, analysts are enthusiastic about prospects for post-Secret World performance. "Funcom is one of the stocks that could double or triple in value. If Funcom's next game is a success, they will definitely end up as the stock of the year," Carnegie's Espen Torgersen says.

MassivelyFuncom stock price could 'double or triple' depending on success of The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carnegieconspiracyfactionfantasyfinancialsfuncomfuncom-stockfuncom-stock-predictionshorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedstock-performancestock-predictionsstocksthe-secret-worldtswWed, 07 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Funcom launches official German and French websites for The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/funcom-launches-official-german-and-french-websites-for-the-secr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/funcom-launches-official-german-and-french-websites-for-the-secr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/funcom-launches-official-german-and-french-websites-for-the-secr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Dragon faction members fighting
Word of mouth is everything in today's crowded MMO market, and when it comes to AAA titles like The Secret World, localized fan support systems and information dissemination channels are high on the list of priorities for an international release.

As such, Funcom has just announced the creation of two new websites for its French- and German-speaking fan communities. Both portals will be managed by dedicated community teams, and the new sites can be accessed at the direct links above or via the language selector on the main Secret World website.

Funcom's horror-conspiracy MMO is scheduled to launch on June 19th.

[Source: Funcom press release]

MassivelyFuncom launches official German and French websites for The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conspiracyfactionfantasyfrench-websitefuncomgerman-websitehorrorhorror-conspiracymythologynew-websitessci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-websitetswFri, 02 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 188: Podcasting on two hours of sleep]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/massively-speaking-episode-188-podcasting-on-two-hours-of-sleep/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/massively-speaking-episode-188-podcasting-on-two-hours-of-sleep/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/massively-speaking-episode-188-podcasting-on-two-hours-of-sleep/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World
Massively Speaking Episode 188 wants you to know that colds are the pits -- and sleep ninja babies are just wicked to the core. But your intrepid hosts soldier through massive sleep deprivation to bring you garfle monkey shuffles! Also, popcorn purple Qwerty.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 188: Podcasting on two hours of sleep

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 188: Podcasting on two hours of sleep originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveeve-onlinefeaturedguild-wars-2gw2massively-metamassively-speakingoriginalpodcastsoeterathe-secret-worldtswtwitterTue, 28 Feb 2012 14:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 188Massively.com Staff54:16podcasts<![CDATA[A second look at The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/a-second-look-at-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/a-second-look-at-the-secret-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/a-second-look-at-the-secret-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World has M60s, apparently
Funcom recently held another special hands-on event for The Secret World at its Montreal, Canada offices, where we sent freelancer François Blondin to cover all the exciting details. Enjoy his latest preview of the game!

Last weekend, I nabbed a second look at Funcom's upcoming MMO The Secret World, now scheduled for a June 19th release. I was going in with high expectations, having been blown away by my first playtest of this modern-world-based MMO, and I'll say that this second visit managed to convince me that this game is on the right track to impress gamers with fresh gameplay, vicious puzzles, an ability wheel full of synergies, and new elite abilities at the top tiers of weapon specializations.

I spent wasted a lot of time during my first visit testing out different builds, but I missed out on some content while doing that, and I realized that abilities and builds are something you'll come to naturally as you progress through the game as you earn ability points, choose where you want to go, and decide how you want to specialize. This time around, I got to spend more time exploring the game world, trying out missions, and blowing things up.

Gallery: The Secret World

Continue reading A second look at The Secret World

MassivelyA second look at The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankhbrent-ellisondungeondungeonseventfeaturedfuncomgalleriesgalleryhands-onimpressionsmartin-bruusgaardmontrealmysterypreviewpreviewsscreenshotscreenshotsthe-ankhthe-secret-worldtswFri, 24 Feb 2012 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: MMOs are Casey's children edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-mmo-report-mmos-are-caseys-children-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-mmo-report-mmos-are-caseys-children-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-mmo-report-mmos-are-caseys-children-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The MMO Report
This week on The MMO Report, Casey (not pictured above) discusses The Secret World's new release date of June 19th, Guild Wars 2's console version and beta weekend, and Star Wars: The Old Republic's expansion into the Asia-Pacific region. He also peeks at the new raid and content coming to DC Universe Online, which still exists.

Casey's usual journey into the mailbag may or may not reveal an image of a dog drinking wine and playing World of Warcraft.

Finally, The Beard teases next week's special RIFT anniversary episode. All that and more in the video behind the break!

Continue reading The MMO Report: MMOs are Casey's children edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: MMOs are Casey's children edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbeta-weekendbiowareblizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcasey-schreinerdc-universe-onlinedcuoeaElectronic-Artsfuncomguild-wars-2gw2mmo-reportncsoftriftsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-mmo-reportthe-secret-worldtriontrion-worldstswvideovideosWorld-of-WarcraftwowThu, 23 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you take time off work to play games?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-daily-grind-do-you-take-time-off-work-to-play-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-daily-grind-do-you-take-time-off-work-to-play-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/the-daily-grind-do-you-take-time-off-work-to-play-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Zombies incoming
Holy shitaki mushrooms! There are a lot of cool MMOs coming out this year! If 2011 was kind of a downer for new AAA titles, 2012 is more than making up for it with the likes of Guild Wars 2, The Secret World, and TERA (at least two of which will release within a month of one another).

The only problem is finding enough time in the day to play all these gems (not to mention making time to keep up with old favorites). Heck, I'm even contemplating a brief vacation of sorts, the better to have some uninterrupted sessions with all these new games.

What about you, dear readers? Have you ever taken time off from work for an MMO?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you take time off work to play games? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily-grindfeaturedgame-discussiongamer-discussionguild-wars-2launch-daylaunchesmmo-discussionmmo-hot-topicsmmo-issuesmmo-launchesmmo-topicsmmorpg-discussionmmorpg-hot-topicsmmorpg-topicsopinionsecret-worldterathe-daily-grindthe-secret-worldThu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST