Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/the-perfect-ten-final-moments-of-mmos-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Final moments of MMOs, part 2
LAST TIME ON THE PERFECT TEN: Games were shut down, tears were shed, memories were dragged unwillingly from long-term storage, and videos were shown. Also, Marty totally suckered Biff into driving into a truck full of manure and then got his parents to kiss at a dance so that he wouldn't be erased from the space-time continuum.

AND NOW FOR THE EXCITING CONCLUSION!

Is it completely morbid to want to revisit (or see for the first time) the final moments of MMOs? Yes, but also no. Really, it's just interesting to me, and I have no great agenda at play here. Sometimes seeing how a game goes out can tell you a lot about its community and dev team. So join us now as we hit the second half of 10 videos showing the last few minutes of these online RPGs.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 2

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Final moments of MMOs, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrback-to-betabetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohconsoleconsolescovcoxcrimef2pfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivflashfree-to-playfreedomg1gamersfirstglitchhipsterhumorlego-universencsoftopinionp10paragonparagon-studiosperfect-10perfect-tenpvproundupsandboxsquaresquare-enixsuperherosuperheroesthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentinyspecktop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listunlauncheningThu, 25 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Soggy beginnings]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/14/one-shots-soggy-beginnings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/14/one-shots-soggy-beginnings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/04/14/one-shots-soggy-beginnings/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Soggy beginnings
Dungeons and Dragons Online newcomers and veterans alike are quite familiar with the waterlogged Sahuagin and all of their wacky antics. Basically think "level 1 mermaids from hell" and you're right with the rest of us. It's a good thing that the game doesn't have smell-o-vision because the tutorial would be reeking of a fishery, that's all I'm saying.

Reader Sharvis photographed his initial journey through the game and delivered this familiar image of an odd cellar. "Oh great, the Wavecrest Tavern's basement has flooded," he writes. "And who let the Sahuagin in? They're making everything look tacky again!"

We'll get the sump pump working while you check out the rest of today's player-submitted screenshots!

Continue reading One Shots: Soggy beginnings

MassivelyOne Shots: Soggy beginnings originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 14 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabetabiowarebring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedcasualconquestddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchhipsterlucasartsone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenpvpreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptinyspecktortriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentultima-onlineunlauncheninguouser-submissionsSun, 14 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Cutest creatures]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/the-perfect-ten-cutest-creatures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/the-perfect-ten-cutest-creatures/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/the-perfect-ten-cutest-creatures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Cutest creatures
I vividly remember a conversation I had with my then-girlfriend's parents back in 1996 about the potential of this growing "internet" phenomenon. With my limited understanding, I made it sound downright noble, a Library of Congress available at the fingertips of the average Joe or Jane. What I really should have said that it would be a tool for the distribution of pornography, nerd rage, and cute animal pictures.

I have no idea how big the cute animal picture industry is, but there have got to be millions of aspiring photographers daily who prod little baby critters with encouragement sticks in the hopes of eliciting a few "awws" out of strangers. Even when the serious business of MMOs came a-calling, cuteness infested fantasy lands near and far.

Whenever I see something absurdly cute in an MMO, I always smile because I know that somewhere, some uber-elite, way-too-serious player is developing facial tics from being in the same game world as it. So twitch away, as here are 10 of the cutest critters as seen in-game!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Cutest creatures

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Cutest creatures originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanarchy-onlineanetaoarenanetback-to-betabetabiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playcasualclassic-mmoconquestconsoleconsolescrypticcryptic-studioseaelectronic-artsf2pfamilyfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivflashfree-to-playfuncomglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterhumorkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsncsoftopinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvppweriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararounduprvrsandboxsci-fisquaresquare-enixstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstoswtorthe-old-republicthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptinyspecktop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtortriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentunlauncheningwarcraftwizard101world-of-warcraftwowThu, 28 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Back in the day...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/03/one-shots-back-in-the-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/03/one-shots-back-in-the-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/03/03/one-shots-back-in-the-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots Back in the day
A few weeks ago I asked everyone to send me in screenshots of pre-2004 MMOs... and only Brad delivered. Seriously, people, you've been shown up by Brad. Brad gets the gold star. Brad gets the golden ticket and can come on a once-in-a-lifetime visit to see the fabled Massively word factory. Brad is my hero.

Brad (if you didn't catch his name) sent us in this shot of Ultima Online: "So much fun with vendors! This is a shot of Angelica's on the Chesapeake Server -- a popular shopping spot in Felucca to grab gear on the go. It was one of the few player-owned vendor spots in a protected zone near Lord British's Castle. This would have been taken around 2002. Notice the detail of the fish tank made from stacked cloth and the flowers made with an onion and two cooked eggs!"

Yes. Notice Brad's eggs, people. In them you can see the reflection of your failure. Aw, just kidding!

Continue reading One Shots: Back in the day...

MassivelyOne Shots: Back in the day... originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetback-to-betabetabring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playcasualclassic-mmoeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterlord-britishlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromythicmythic-entertainmentncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxscreenshotscreenshotstinyspeckturbineturbine-entertainmentultimaultima onlineunlauncheninguouser-submissionsSun, 03 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Bring out your dead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/10/one-shots-bring-out-your-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/10/one-shots-bring-out-your-dead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/02/10/one-shots-bring-out-your-dead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

One Shots Bring out your dead
Ah, nothing like a pile of rotting stiffs to start your day off right, I always say! So nice of considerate readers to send me such pictures in my email. Maybe it's a somber commentary on the fragility of life and the tragedies that go unnoticed around us daily. Maybe it's somebody trying to gross me out. I'm good either way.

Reader Volska clues us in: "Talk about morbid. Here's a screenshot of some piles of corpses from the Guardian starter area in RIFT. No happy welcoming party here."

With a start like that, what other pictures will we have to share? It's a wild and wooly One Shots, and it all starts after the jump!

Continue reading One Shots: Bring out your dead

MassivelyOne Shots: Bring out your dead originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetback-to-betabetabring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playcasualconquestf2pfactionfantasyflashfree-to-playfuncomgalleriesgalleryglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterhorrormythologyncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenpvpreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fantasyscreenshotscreenshotssecret-worldskill-basedsubscriptionlessthe-secret-worldthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptinyspecktriontrion-worldstswunlauncheninguser-submissionsSun, 10 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Slumbering death]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/27/one-shots-slumbering-death/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/27/one-shots-slumbering-death/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/27/one-shots-slumbering-death/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Slumbering death
Reader John's going to get me to actually say something nice about TERA. Are you ready for it? Because this doesn't happen often. Here's my compliment: It's a beautiful-looking game. Really. I can't deny that there's a special level of polish and eye when it comes to its visuals.

Anyway, John sent us in this captivating picture of a place that might look pretty in the daylight, but you probably don't want to be loitering after nightfall. "I just started playing TERA upon hearing about the F2P conversion. This is my Amani Berserker traveling through the low-level Valley of Titans and stopping behind a pair of rock giants. These rock giants are all over the place here -- I wonder what will happen if they ever wake up?"

Dance party? That's my guess. See John's full-color photo in all its glory after the break in addition to other terrifying vistas.

Continue reading One Shots: Slumbering death

MassivelyOne Shots: Slumbering death originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetback-to-betabetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playcasualen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxscreenshotscreenshotsteratinyspeckunlauncheninguser-submissionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 27 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Glitch preserves game memories via encyclopedia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/glitch-preserves-game-memories-via-encyclopedia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/glitch-preserves-game-memories-via-encyclopedia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/glitch-preserves-game-memories-via-encyclopedia/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Glitch preserves game memories via encyclopedia
It's slightly unusual to get a "post-game update" from a closed MMO, but then again, Glitch always was unusual. Tiny Speck wrote a post to thank players for the support and encouragement received following last month's sunset and also to let everyone know that the team is preserving Glitch's art assets and memories through the website's encyclopedia under a Creative Commons license.

"When we shut off the servers on December 9th, players left thousands of notes scattered throughout the world. They were wonderful -- sometimes sad, sometimes funny, occasionally weird, and always heartfelt," the team wrote. To honor the players, the staff has included these notes in Glitch's encyclopedia on the location pages.

Tiny Speck says that the encyclopedia and other assets will remain up and running even as the rest of the website spins down in upcoming months.

MassivelyGlitch preserves game memories via encyclopedia originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-assetsback-to-betabetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualcreative-commonscultureencyclopediaf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playglitchhipsterplayer-notespost-game-updatesandboxsunsettinyspeckunlauncheningWed, 23 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Worlds within worlds]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/30/one-shots-worlds-within-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/30/one-shots-worlds-within-worlds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/30/one-shots-worlds-within-worlds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Worlds within worlds
When it comes to winter holidays, I'm always disappointed that they come so darn early in the season. We could really use all that cheer, celebrating, and lighting come, say, February after we've been wallowing in the cold and dark for months. No matter; what's done is done, and we have a giant snow globe as proof.

Reader Trevor sent in the following picture from Guild Wars 2's Wintersday, as he took a photo of a world within the larger world and wrote, "Happened upon this giant snow globe amongst the flurry of gifts, giant flying colorful snowflakes, and Wintersday cheer. If you listen closely, you can hear my computer screaming in pain."

Oh, we'll make more than your computer scream in pain before this column is done!

Continue reading One Shots: Worlds within worlds

MassivelyOne Shots: Worlds within worlds originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 30 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetback-to-betabetabring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playcasualconquestf2pfantasyflashfpsfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipstermmo-shootermmofpsncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenplanetsideplanetside-2ps2pvpreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsshootersoesonysony-online-entertainmentthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptinyspecktriontrion-worldsunlauncheninguser-submissionsSun, 30 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Laser light shows]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/23/one-shots-laser-light-shows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/23/one-shots-laser-light-shows/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/23/one-shots-laser-light-shows/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Laser light shows
Ancient civilizations always seem to have the flair for the dramatic, especially if they were sitting on suspiciously advanced technology. We begin our trip through One Shots today with a look at Star Wars: The Old Republic's newest PvP warzone and its so-called "ancient" artifacts.

Reader John was captivated by the look of this machine: "It would be fair to say that much of SWTOR looks like either the traditional fantasy MMOs we've all played before or a series of corridors. With Ancient Hypergates, however, BioWare has delivered an incredible-looking area that feels perhaps like a cross between Mass Effect and Halo, though of course the lightsaber battles that take place across this arena add the necessary 'Star Wars' touch."

Carry on, my wayward sons and daughters, and join us as we dive further into the visuals of MMOs than any who have come before.

Continue reading One Shots: Laser light shows

MassivelyOne Shots: Laser light shows originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 23 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabetabiowareblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedcasualeaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchhipsterlucasartsone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorterathe-old-republictinyspecktorunlauncheninguser-submissionsSun, 23 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: The hills have eyes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/16/one-shots-the-hills-have-eyes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/16/one-shots-the-hills-have-eyes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/16/one-shots-the-hills-have-eyes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots The hills have eyes
Do you ever get the feeling you're being watched? It's because you are, fool. Everything has its eyes on you, even the mountains themselves. Case in point: this screenshot from reader Chris, who found himself amazed at the artistry of Guild Wars 2 and the slight creepiness of mountains with facial features.

"In a quest during Guild Wars 2 around level 60," Chris writes, "you are asked to go up a big hill into the face of the mountain (literally) and shutdown the machine. I took the screenshot at the start of the quest because the world is so beautiful."

If our games are going to look at us, we might as well return the favor! Hit the jump for more excellent screenshot submissions.

Continue reading One Shots: The hills have eyes

MassivelyOne Shots: The hills have eyes originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetback-to-betabetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentbring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedbuy-to-playcasualf2pfactionfantasyflashfree-to-playfuncomgalleriesgalleryglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterhorrormythologyncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxsci-fantasyscreenshotscreenshotssecret-worldskill-basedsubscriptionlessthe-secret-worldtinyspecktswunlauncheninguser-submissionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 16 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 228: A Glitch in the system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/massively-speaking-episode-228-a-glitch-in-the-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/massively-speaking-episode-228-a-glitch-in-the-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/11/massively-speaking-episode-228-a-glitch-in-the-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 228
MMO worlds are shutting down left and right lately, and fans wonder whether this is the fabled onlinepocalypse we've feared for years. The Mayans predicted the end of such gaming worlds, but their contemporaries thought them mad, and historians didn't know what to make of an ancient civilization talking about "welfare epics," "XP grinds," and "Massively Speaking."

If it is the end of the world, wouldn't you like to hold the hands of two soothing podcasters who have plenty of popcorn to share? If we were you, we would totally do it. Listening to this episode is the next best thing, really.

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 228: A Glitch in the system

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 228: A Glitch in the system originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrback-to-betabetabrantbrianna-roycebrowserbrowser-basedcasualccpccp-gamescode-clubcrimeend-of-nationseoneveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfeaturedflashfree-to-playg1gamersfirstglitchhipsterhumorinternet-spaceshipsjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmmortsopinionpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespodcastpodcastingpodcastspvprtssandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlinetinyspecktriontrion-worldsunlauncheningwarwurmwurm-onlineTue, 11 Dec 2012 13:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 228Massively.com Staff00:56:15podcast<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Get your festival on edition, December 10 - 16, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-stream-team-get-your-festival-on-edition-december-10-16-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-stream-team-get-your-festival-on-edition-december-10-16-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-stream-team-get-your-festival-on-edition-december-10-16-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Get your festival on edition, December 1016, 2012
The lull is over, and now the hustle and bustle of the winter holiday season begins! Regardless of which holiday you celebrate, mid-December is a time to prepare for and enjoy the festivities. For some folks, that means lots of cooking, lots of eating, and lots of family and friends. And for many of us, we add game time in our favorite MMOs on top of all that. We are even masterful at combining any variation of all of the above! That's where Massively TV comes in handy.

Join your friends (and possibly family?) on The Stream Team in-game and in chat as you watch and even participate in various adventures across the MMO spectrum. Sandboxes and themeparks, PvP and PvE -- they are all represented. And we have a new streamer joining the ranks! So take a look at what games catch your fancy this week, welcome our new guinea pig... er streamer, and then tell us what your favorite in-game holiday festivals are.

Continue reading The Stream Team: Get your festival on edition, December 10 - 16, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Get your festival on edition, December 10 - 16, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionanetarenanetascensionback-to-betabetabiowarebrowserbrowser-basedcasualccpccp-gameschampionschampions-onlinechampsclassic-mmococrypticcryptic-studiosDotA-2eaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfamilyfantasyfeaturedflashfpsfree-to-playfuncomgamepotglitchguild-wars-2gw2habbo-hotelhardcorehi-rezhi-rez-studioshipsterhorrorinternet-spaceshipsjagexjagex-games-studiokid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmetammo-shootermmofpsmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenamv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmythologyncsoftopen-pvpperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpermadeathpiratepirate101piratespkplanetsideplanetside-2player-killingpollps2pvppwersrunescapesandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshootersir-techskill-basedSmitesoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlineStar-Stablestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarcraft-iistreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesswtortelonthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamtinyspecktorTorchlight-IItruly-freetswturbineturbine-entertainmenttwitchtwitch-tvunlauncheningvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwizardrywizardry-onlineMon, 10 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Lull in the storm edition, December 3 - 9, 2013]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/the-stream-team-lull-in-the-storm-edition-december-3-9-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/the-stream-team-lull-in-the-storm-edition-december-3-9-201/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/12/03/the-stream-team-lull-in-the-storm-edition-december-3-9-201/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Stream Team Lull in the storm edition, December 3 9, 2013
From horror movies to storms, there is always a lull before the stuff really hits the fan. And right now is the lull in the storm that is holiday preparation. It's just a short span of time that offers a breather between the insanity that is Black Friday and the rush of all else that comes with the season, so take advantage of it! Before all the decorating, holiday parties, shopping, cooking, and everything else, settle back and watch some Massively TV!

While you relax and enjoy your lull, The Stream Team will treat you to a bit of beta action, some heroic antics, plenty of shooting, and possibly even the final moments of one title. Then, if you can muster the energy for it, share your favorite relaxation ritual. Can you guess one of mine?

Continue reading The Stream Team: Lull in the storm edition, December 3 - 9, 2013

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Lull in the storm edition, December 3 - 9, 2013 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots Dearly departed
Today's One Shots will be a more somber one, as we strive to honor two MMOs that are passing into history. First up is the dearly departed City of Heroes, which Reader Michelle apparently loved quite a bit. She sent us in several screenshots, including one of her supergroup, Part Time Heroes.

"Here's a group of my friends during the Mortimer Kal Strike Force," Michelle writes. "My character is Astral Black, a Warshade who should be my last level 50. She's the one in the purple and black crop top."

Head onward for more personal dedications, but be warned: You may be misty-eyed by the end.

Continue reading One Shots: Dearly departed

MassivelyOne Shots: Dearly departed originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 02 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Glitch's creator This was 'too foreign of a concept'
If you're looking for just one reason why Glitch is sunsetting, you're out of luck. If you're looking for many, many reasons why Glitch failed, then all you have to do is pull up a chair in front of Tiny Speck's Stewart Butterfield and listen to him talk. Butterfield spoke with Gamasutra about the myriad of reasons why Glitch didn't take and ultimately had to be shuttered.

"Ultimately if I have to identify one thing as the problem -- I don't think there is just one -- but if I had to choose just one," Butterfield said, "I think the game was too foreign of a concept for most people."

He pointed out that while there was a devoted fan base who "got it," marketing the title presented severe problems throughout most of the game's lifespan: "There haven't ever been other non-combat MMOs that are based on absurdity, humor, and whimsy. I'm not sure anyone has the specific expertise in making this thing work."

Other failures that Butterfield identified was a lack of fun gameplay until recently, the decision to do the game in Flash instead of for mobile platforms, large expenditures of money, and Tiny Speck's big team drawing salaries.

MassivelyGlitch's creator on the game's failure: 'Too foreign of a concept' originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualclosuref2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgamasutraglitchhipsterindieinterviewsandboxshutteringslow motionSlowMotionstewart-butterfieldsunsettinyspeckunlauncheningFri, 30 Nov 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Justifying the subscriptions I maintain]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/free-for-all-justifying-the-subscriptions-i-maintain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/free-for-all-justifying-the-subscriptions-i-maintain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/free-for-all-justifying-the-subscriptions-i-maintain/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Wakfu screenshot
Subscriptions are a funny thing. For as long as I can remember, they've represented a level of quality to many gamers. To those players, only those funny Eastern MMOs didn't have a sub. Granted, I loved a lot of those funny Eastern games and didn't care how a game monetized itself. Watching Western players spin on a dime about subscriptions has been a pretty weird experience. The Western developers have changed as well, providing tiered services and other models that would have been seen as suspicious only years ago.

I've been known as a free-to-play guy for a while. Heck, I was originally hired here at Massively to cover free-to-play games. Now that there are more free games than not, this column has spread out a bit, covering multiple topics. Payment models do still come up, as they did this week. I thought it'd be cool to examine the subs I do maintain and why -- not press accounts or accounts from long before I began working at Massively, but accounts that I choose to pay for with my own money.

Continue reading Free for All: Justifying the subscriptions I maintain

MassivelyFree for All: Justifying the subscriptions I maintain originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ankamabeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedcash-shopcasualclassic-mmodie2nitef2pfantasyfeaturedffaflashfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumglitchjagexjagex-games-studioopinionrsrunescapesandboxSquare-Enixsquenixstrategysubssubscriptionsubscriptionstiny-specktinyspecktwinoidvelvet-ropevirtual-goodswakfuWed, 28 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: Pie is not a lie edition, November 26 - December 3, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/the-stream-team-pie-is-not-a-lie-edition-november-26-decembe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/the-stream-team-pie-is-not-a-lie-edition-november-26-decembe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/the-stream-team-pie-is-not-a-lie-edition-november-26-decembe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team Pie is not a lie edition, November 26 December 3, 2012
Ahh, the big dinner is over... but not the leftovers. And even better, not the pies! MMmm pie. From the results of the poll, pie is the big winner for favorite Turkey Day food. Oh sure, it appears to have tied with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and -- my personal favorite -- the day-after sandwich, but once you take into account all the pie choices, the round confectionery delight definitely wins.

And pie is just like Massively TV! No, really -- think about it. One of the greatest things about Thanksgiving pies is that there are so many different ones to choose from. If you don't really fancy one kind (I am not a fan of traditional pumpkin), you can have something else. You can also try little bits of multiple pies to see what you like, or you can simply indulge in all the varieties! And The Stream Team offers a variety of games to sample vicariously, regardless your personal taste. Some streams even come with a dollop of dev commentary on top. You can choose to sample one or two here and there, or you can dive right in and gorge on all of them. So check out what's on this week's menu...

Continue reading The Stream Team: Pie is not a lie edition, November 26 - December 3, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: Pie is not a lie edition, November 26 - December 3, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One Shots This is the end, my friend
What do you imagine the end of the world looking like? I'm willing to bet it's nothing like the following technicolor nightmare ripped straight from the finale of the first version of Final Fantasy XIV.

Reader Focant delivers this haunting image with a description of the videopocalypse: "The Garlean forces held nothing back in their battle against us, and attacked with their most destructive weaponry. The most powerful enemy we saw on the battlefield that night was the level 100 (the player cap is 50) Imperial Juggernaut, an enemy that is only seen one other time in game. I made sure to include a player character in the shot as well for size comparison. These things are massive!"

And with that we're off to another wild and wooly edition of One Shots! Please put your tray tables in their full upright and locked position.

Continue reading One Shots: This is the end, my friend

MassivelyOne Shots: This is the end, my friend originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetback-to-betabetabring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedcasualcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohconsoleconsolescovcoxf2pfantasyffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivflashfree-to-playfreedomgalleriesgalleryglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterncsoftone-shotsparagonparagon-studiospics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxscreenshotscreenshotssquaresquare-enixsuperherosuperheroestinyspeckunlauncheninguser-submissionsSun, 25 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Why the closing of Glitch matters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/23/mmobility-why-the-closing-of-glitch-matters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/23/mmobility-why-the-closing-of-glitch-matters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/23/mmobility-why-the-closing-of-glitch-matters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Glitch screenshot
When it was announced that Glitch was closing, I felt a blend of shock and sadness. Glitch is one of my favorite MMOs, but it's special for a number of reasons. The game achieved a lot in a crowded market that is filled with the same gameplay, same lore, and same stock characters that we have seen for years, and it achieved all of this within a Flash-based browser environment.

The official announcement gave us a lot of clues as to what happened, but it looks like the money was just not enough to keep the game afloat. It's also very possible that the money was enough, but just barely. Running a business is hard, and running an MMO that is so unique and unusual can be the same as living paycheck to paycheck. It's stressful and scary when the future is never certain... sometimes it's easier to call it quits.

Continue reading MMObility: Why the closing of Glitch matters

MassivelyMMObility: Why the closing of Glitch matters originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabeau-hindmanbetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualclosuref2pfantasyfeaturedflashfree-to-playglitchhipsterinnovationmmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphoneSandboxsandbox-gamesmartphonesunsettiny-specktinyspeckunlauncheningFri, 23 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do sunsetted games owe us refunds?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/23/the-daily-grind-do-sunsetted-games-owe-us-refunds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/23/the-daily-grind-do-sunsetted-games-owe-us-refunds/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/23/the-daily-grind-do-sunsetted-games-owe-us-refunds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Daily Grind Do sunsetted games owe us refunds
When Tiny Speck announced last week that Glitch would be shutting down come December 9th, the studio simultaneously did something that few closed MMOs do: It offered complete refunds for past subs. Sure, some companies have offered free game time or bonus cash-shop currency for their other games, but that's usually small consolation. NCsoft grudgingly provided refunds for unused timecards and long-term recurring subs when it set City of Heroes' closure date, but virtually no one provides a complete refund of all the subscription money you ever paid for the game.

On Black Friday, it seems as if half the world is out shopping, looking for a good deal and with money on the brain, so today's an appropriate day to ask: Do sunsetted games owe us refunds? And if you were offered one, would you take it?

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 sunsetted games owe us refunds? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabetabrianna-royce-tdgbrowserbrowser-basedcasualcharitycity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdaily-grindf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playfreedomgenerosityglitchhipsterncsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiosrefundrefundssandboxsuperherosuperheroestdgthe-daily-grindtinyspeckunlauncheningFri, 23 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Out in the cold]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/18/one-shots-out-in-the-cold/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/18/one-shots-out-in-the-cold/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/18/one-shots-out-in-the-cold/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

One Shots Out in the cold
Closing down a game like Glitch is like beating up the big-eyed orphan from down the street for his last two cents; it just feels wrong to anyone with a soul. Massively's One Shots department did its best to counter the situation by taking an angry protest nap, but nothing doing. The next best solution is to ask all of you with great Glitch screenshots to send them our way.

Reader Jeremy submitted this haunting picture that works on a couple of different levels in light of the recent announcement. "Kids," he warns, "this is a warning of the harmful effects of No-No Powder. One day, you're sitting in your pleasant home street, admiring the view. Next, you're waking up naked in a tundra with nothing but your quickly diminishing dignity."

Let's go on a cold, naked adventure together through the rest of this week's player-submitted pictures!

Continue reading One Shots: Out in the cold

MassivelyOne Shots: Out in the cold originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetback-to-betabetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentbring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedcasualconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuof2pfantasyflashfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterncsoftone-shotspics-or-it-didnt-happenplaystation-3playstation3ps3reader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxscreenshotscreenshotssoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroestinyspeckunlauncheninguser-submissionswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 18 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Glitch closing down, cites limited audience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/glitch-closing-down-cites-limited-audience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/glitch-closing-down-cites-limited-audience/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/11/14/glitch-closing-down-cites-limited-audience/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Glitch closing down, cites limited audience
The word is out and it is sad: "Glitch is over." Tiny Speck delivered the shocking news today, saying that the 2-D browser title will be closing forever on December 9th. The team said that it is "heartbroken" to have to announce this, and apologized for letting its fans down.

Apparently, the game simply could not find a critical mass large enough to be financially viable. The developers explained it simply: "Unfortunately, Glitch has not attracted an audience large enough to sustain itself and based on a long period of experimentation and our best estimates, it seems unlikely that it ever would."

While Tiny Speck will continue with a smaller team working on other projects, many of Glitch's developers are now looking for work elsewhere. The studio posted a closure FAQ that included reasoning behind the shutdown and information on how to obtain refunds for money spent on the game.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

MassivelyGlitch closing down, cites limited audience originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualclosuref2pfantasyfaqflashfree-to-playglitchhipsterrefundrefundssandboxshutdownsunsettinyspeckunlauncheningWed, 14 Nov 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Stream Team: October 22 - 28, 2012]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/the-stream-team-october-22-28-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/the-stream-team-october-22-28-2012/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/the-stream-team-october-22-28-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Stream Team October 22 28, 2012
I'm leaving on a jet plane. Don't know when I can game again...

Have you ever had to sing the can't-get-my-MMO-fix blues due to travel? Whether caused by a short weekend jaunt or a long vacation, the inability to log into your favorite games can be a hard thing to bear. But even if you don't have access to your games, access to the internet will help you keep your withdrawls at bay since you can watch The Stream Team.

That's right folks; we are here for you! Hook on up to Massively TV and let the IV of vicarious gaming drip into your system. There are plenty of doses this week. You'll even notice one stream teammate is queuing up to play the game you requested last week! And of course, if you feel you need more medicine, add some of extra streams to your treatment regime.

For an added laugh (another worthy cure-all!), read some of the weird places folks have logged in to get their MMO fix. And don't forget to share your own!

Continue reading The Stream Team: October 22 - 28, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: October 22 - 28, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Stream Team October 15 12, 2012
What's worse than a surprise monster troll invasion? Missing watching a surprise monster troll invasion happen to your favorite Stream Team host! It may not happen today. It may not happen tomorrow. In fact, you never know when or where or even to whom it might happen, but it just might happen! Heavens to Betsy: It could be that one has already happened.

Don't take chances; don't risk missing such an iconic moment. Be sure to watch Massively TV this week to catch all of the action, commentary, and surprises that live gaming can bring. And check any missed livestreams from last week. Those trolls could be anywhere! They could even be hiding in the poll at the end of this column...

Continue reading The Stream Team: October 15 - 21, 2012

MassivelyThe Stream Team: October 15 - 21, 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionanetarenanetascensionback-to-betabetabiowarebrowserbrowser-basedcamelotcasualccpccp-gamesclassic-mmoconquestdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artseq-2eq-iieq2eqiieveeve-onlineeverquest-2everquest-iif2pfactionfallen-earthfamilyfantasyfefeaturedflashForge-of-Empiresfpsfree-to-playfuncomg1gamersfirstglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterhistoricalhorrorinternet-spaceshipskid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreaminglivestreamslucasartsmassively-metamassively-tvmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemetammo-shootermmofpsmv-guidemv-tvmvguidemvtvmwomythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyncsoftpiranhapiranha-gamespiratepirate101piratesplanetsideplanetside-2pollpollspost-apocpost-apocalypticps2pvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldshooterskill-basedsoesonysony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicstarcraft-2starcraft-iistreamstream-schedulestream-teamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsubsubscription-feeswtortanktankstelonthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldthe-stream-teamthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptinyspecktortorchlight-2torchlight-iitriontrion-worldstruly-freetswtwitchtwitch-tvunlauncheningvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwarwargaming.netwastelandsworld-of-tankswotMon, 15 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Beautiful balloon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/one-shots-beautiful-balloon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/one-shots-beautiful-balloon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/10/07/one-shots-beautiful-balloon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots
Massively logically selects for readers who aren't necessarily playing World of Warcraft -- if you were, you'd probably be reading our sister site WoW Insider, not this column. But I am still a WoW fan, as is this week's One Shots submitter, William. He sent in a freshly snapped pic from Mists of Pandaria with this note:
This screenshot is a little bit of a spoiler, so I won't actually say much about what's in it, but needless to say, this is one of my favourite scenes from the Pandaren starting area. The art design is fantastic in Blizzard's new expansion!
Also, panda in a balloon! William's color image is tucked after the break along with a few more of your One Shots-worthy images.

Continue reading One Shots: Beautiful balloon

MassivelyOne Shots: Beautiful balloon originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Glitch screenshot
Glitch has quietly been working its way through beta, adding new content and tweaking exisiting content while many wanna-be players await their turn in the world of Ur. I love the fact that I can log out of the game for several days or a week and log back in to find some newer, better way to play. I'm a bit shocked that the game is taking as long as it has to "re-launch" because it has been a very wonderful and airtight experience for a while. I have a feeling the team at Tiny Speck is a bit on the obsessive side.

How many updates have there been? If you aren't following @PlayGlitch (or @GlitchLog) on Twitter or reading up on the official blog or forums, now is as good a time as any. But I thought it'd be a good idea to round up some of the best for you.

Continue reading MMObility: Glitch's change log describes a very busy Tiny Speck

MassivelyMMObility: Glitch's change log describes a very busy Tiny Speck originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabeau-hindmanbetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualchange-logsf2pfantasyfeaturedflashfree-to-playglitchhipstermmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonesandboxsmartphonetiny-specktinyspeckunlauncheningFri, 14 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Ways MMOs explain infinite resurrection]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/the-perfect-ten-ways-mmos-explain-infinite-resurrection/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/the-perfect-ten-ways-mmos-explain-infinite-resurrection/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/the-perfect-ten-ways-mmos-explain-infinite-resurrection/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Perfect Ten Ways MMOs explain infinite resurrection
Why? Why do we die in MMOs and receive an infinite number of resurrections? Are we in a type of hell defined by endless combat and suffering, doomed to never escape the cycle? Is this a cruel experiment being performed by supreme alien beings from afar? Does that make us the living undead, immortal Highlanders, or something even more significant?

If you're looking at me with that look you have in your eye right now, I'd like to remind you that asking these questions is more in line with the core of RPGs than just mashing the 1-2-3 buttons. The rules that make up and dictate our virtual lives should have both meaning and sense, yet so many of these games expect us to just blithely accept that we can come back from the dead over and over without nary an explanation.

Well, I like explanations. Even if it's just polite nonsense, a thought-out reason as to why our characters are death-proof tells me that the devs treat their game with a higher degree of integrity than others. So here are 10 MMOs in which the endless cycle of death and resurrection gets at least a backhanded explanation instead of "shut up, just accept it."

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Ways MMOs explain infinite resurrection

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Ways MMOs explain infinite resurrection originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastrum-nivalback-to-betabetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualccpccp-gamescity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohconquestcovcoxddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveeve-onlinef2pfactionfallen-earthfantasyfefeaturedflashfree-to-playfreedomfuncomg1gala-netgamersfirstglitchgpotatohipsterhorrorhumorinternet-spaceshipslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromail-ru-gamesmail.ru-gamesmailru-gamesmxomythologyncsoftopinionp10paragonparagon-studiosperfect-10perfect-tenpost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararounduprvrsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedspreadsheets-onlinesuperherosuperheroesthe-matrix-onlinethe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthe-secret-worldthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptinyspecktop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtriontrion-worldstswturbineturbine-entertainmentunlauncheningwastelandsThu, 13 Sep 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Still got it]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/one-shots-still-got-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/one-shots-still-got-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/one-shots-still-got-it/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots
Runes of Magic was a F2P game before the cool kids joined the F2P party, but it's been a little neglected by MMO players. Massively reader Andrew wants us to know that it's got some spark left in it:
While Runes of Magic may be three years old, the graphics are still looking great. There's some awesome vistas in RoM that appear when you take the time to control+z your interface and look around. This shot is from Southern Janost Forest.
In fact, Andrew sent us two pics, and they're both behind the break along with a few more of your One Shots!

Continue reading One Shots: Still got it

MassivelyOne Shots: Still got it originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetback-to-betabetabiowarebrianna-royce-oneshotsbring-back-one-shotsbrowserbrowser-basedcasualcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playfreedomfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegalleriesgallerygameforgegameforge-berlinglitchguild-wars-2gw2hipsterlucasartsncsoftone-shotsparagonparagon-studiospics-or-it-didnt-happenreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feesuperherosuperheroesswtortaboreathe-old-republictinyspecktorunlauncheninguser-submissionsSun, 09 Sep 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Glitch status report discusses the impending relaunch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/04/glitch-status-report-discusses-the-impending-relaunch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/04/glitch-status-report-discusses-the-impending-relaunch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/09/04/glitch-status-report-discusses-the-impending-relaunch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The original draft for this post also included a subplot regarding a prince and a dragon, but that was cut for relevance.
Once upon a time, there was a game called Glitch. This game launched, and it made several people very happy, but it made its designers sad because it didn't feel ready for launch. So the designers called backsies on launch and took the game back to beta for more development and refinement. It's been nine months since then, and according to the latest developer update, the game is almost up to the point it should have been during its first launch... but not quite.

The blog post explains that there were three core things that the design team wanted in the game before the official relaunch: a better introduction for new players, imagination and upgrades as a core advancement system, and a better land and housing system. While those features are in place, they've just brought on new challenges for the designers and new updates that need to be added. The overall takeaway is that if you're not playing now, you will be able to soon, as the game is almost as the designers want it, and then we can all live happily ever after.

MassivelyGlitch status report discusses the impending relaunch originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabetabeta-againbrowserbrowser-basedcasualdeveloper-blogdevelopmentf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playglitchhipsterlaunch-backsiesre-betarelaunchsandboxtinyspeckunlauncheningTue, 04 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you log in for chance-based daily activities?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/25/the-daily-grind-do-you-log-in-for-chance-based-daily-activities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/25/the-daily-grind-do-you-log-in-for-chance-based-daily-activities/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/25/the-daily-grind-do-you-log-in-for-chance-based-daily-activities/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Daily Grind - Glitch
Daily quests are a fixture in MMOs. Whether a game is subscription-based or free-to-play, it has a vested interest in cajoling you to keep coming back (and spending money). F2P games in particular have latched on to a very specific type of non-combat daily "quest." In Free Realms, for example, players can spin a wheel once per day to receive a chance at random prizes and rewards. In Glitch, you can shuffle your upgrade cards for a new batch every game day. And the RIFT mobile app provides "Lootables," virtual lottery scratch-off tickets that you can play a few times per day for a chance for, well, loot in the real game.

These types of "dailies" can sometimes put players who play in a few long bursts at a disadvantage to those who play in many short bursts. I know I'm annoyed when I constantly feel as if I need to log in and perform routine maintenance on a game so that my "real" playtime is enhanced. And that's without mentioning that some games will happily sell the equivalent of wheel spins to those players who didn't like the results of their freebie.

Today, Massively's wondering what you think of non-combat daily quests transparently designed to keep you thinking about the game even when you're not playing it. Do you log in to spin wheels, shuffle cards, and scratch off virtual lottery tickets? Or do you ignore those daily activities?

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 log in for chance-based daily activities? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Aug 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgbrowserbrowser-basedcasualconquestdailiesdaily-grinddaily-questf2pfantasyflashfrfree-realmsfree-to-playglitchlotterymobilemobile-appopinionriftrift-mobilescratch-offsoesony-online-entertainmentspin-the-wheeltdgthe-daily-grindtinyspecktriontrion-worldsupgrade-cardwheel-spinSat, 25 Aug 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: Glitch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/why-i-play-glitch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/why-i-play-glitch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/why-i-play-glitch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Rook artwork
As I began to write this column, it struck me that there are some people who do not actually want to play Glitch by Tiny Speck. I wanted to change the usual title of this column to "Why, of course I play Glitch!" but then I thought about my editors glaring at me from across an email. I guess I should explain my love for Glitch, the type I normally reserve only for certain wonderful titles like RuneScape, Dark Age of Camelot, Mabinogi, Wurm Online, Ryzom, MilMo, or even World of Warcraft years ago. I apologize, but it's a bit hard to explain something that seems so obvious.

Some people probably consider Glitch a game for younger players or for players who are not as serious about their digital lifestyle. Why Glitch would not be taken as seriously while a game like Darkfall or (ironically) World of Warcraft is considered a more serious gaming venture is beyond me. But then, I think all gaming is silly... that's why it's wonderful.

Continue reading Why I Play: Glitch

MassivelyWhy I Play: Glitch originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabeau-hindmanbetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalleditorialf2pfantasyfeaturedflashfree-to-playglitchglitchenhipstermabinogimassively-metametamilmoNexonnostalgiaop-edopinionrookrunescapeRyzomsandboxthe-rooktiny-specktinyspeckunlauncheningwhy-i-playWorld-of-Warcraftwurm-onlineWed, 01 Aug 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Glitch's beta grows, charging along the way]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/mmobility-glitchs-beta-grows-charging-along-the-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/mmobility-glitchs-beta-grows-charging-along-the-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/20/mmobility-glitchs-beta-grows-charging-along-the-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Glitch profile screenshot
If you have been fortunate enough to be included in the Glitch beta, then you might be aware that the developer, Tiny Speck, has really been tweaking, twisting and pushing the game into shape over the last few months. Not only was housing recently redone, but fantastic new housing pieces have come along as well. You can now craft store booths, cash registers, and signage. This means that styling your personal space has become one of the most popular pastimes in the browser-based sandbox.

There are new hairstyles, new skills, and ways of showing off your wonderful new profile, including "snaps" -- snapshots taken from in game to be shared, social-network-style. There's so much going on in the game, I am beginning to wonder a couple of things.

First, why aren't they inviting new players in yet?

Second, why are they charging for this "beta"?

Continue reading MMObility: Glitch's beta grows, charging along the way

MassivelyMMObility: Glitch's beta grows, charging along the way originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbetabeta-testbrowserbrowser-basedcasualf2pfantasyfeaturedflashfree-to-playftpglitchmmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonesandboxsmartphonestewart-butterfieldtiny-specktinyspeckunlauncheningFri, 20 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Are you a fan of offline-leveling?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/the-daily-grind-are-you-a-fan-of-offline-leveling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/the-daily-grind-are-you-a-fan-of-offline-leveling/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/the-daily-grind-are-you-a-fan-of-offline-leveling/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Glitch
By my count, EVE Online and Glitch have exactly two things in common: They're both sandboxes, and they both have offline-leveling. Yes, whether you're harvesting tears in EVE or milking butterflies in Glitch, your skills are all raised offline while you're sleeping, working, or playing some other game that actually requires your attention.

I love offline-advancement systems, not because they themselves are so exciting but because they usually signify a game that's focused on letting you play a game rather than making you grind it out. Still, I know the system comes with a ripe crop of problems for newbies, who are often crippled in competitive games until they've spent enough time not-playing to effectively play.

What about you -- are you a fan of offline-leveling?

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: Are you a fan of offline-leveling? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrianna-royce-tdgcasualccpccp-gamesdaily-grindeveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playglitchinternet-spaceshipsoffline-advancementoffline-levelingopinionsandboxspreadsheets-onlinetdgtear-harvestingthe-daily-grindtinyspeckMon, 02 Jul 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Glitch dev Google Maps all of World of Warcraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/glitch-dev-google-maps-all-of-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/glitch-dev-google-maps-all-of-world-of-warcraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/glitch-dev-google-maps-all-of-world-of-warcraft/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Glitch dev Google Maps all of World of Warcraft
What do MMO developers do on their days off? If you're Tiny Speck co-founder Cal Henderson, you engage in huge projects concerning other MMOs. The man partially responsible for the sleeper hit Glitch spent a gob of time recreating World of Warcraft in Google Maps, and the result is awesome.

Henderson was inspired by an earlier attempt to provide a comprehensive map of the game but felt that he could vastly improve upon the project. He details in his blog how he went about converting the entire world of Azeroth into Google Maps, including the dungeons and several off-the-grid areas unseen by most players. Henderson also shares a few interesting tidbits that he dug up in WoW's files, including earlier names for areas.

World of Warcraft is a popular target for such crazy projects. We reported earlier this year that a player was working to create a Minecraft version of the entirety of Azeroth.

MassivelyGlitch dev Google Maps all of World of Warcraft originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionback-to-betabetablizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowserbrowser-basedcal-hendersoncasualf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playglitchgoogle-mapshipstermapmappingmapsminecraftsandboxtiny-specktinyspeckunlauncheningwarcraftworld-of-mapcraftworld-of-warcraftwowMon, 18 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Parallel Zombies, Glitch's new butlers, and a new space MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/mmobility-parallel-zombies-glitchs-new-butlers-and-a-new-spa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/mmobility-parallel-zombies-glitchs-new-butlers-and-a-new-spa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/06/15/mmobility-parallel-zombies-glitchs-new-butlers-and-a-new-spa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Glitch's new butler screenshot
It's been a great week for mobile MMOs. That's a wonderful thing to type up, especially considering how few mobile MMOs are released when compared to standard browser- or client-based games. This week, I found myself logging in quite a bit of time with a few titles, but I still want a lot more time to explore some of these games. One you can't play yet, another you have played probably quite a bit already, and the last one promises to suck up a lot of your time in between meetings.

It's neat to see another iOS MMO. iOS doesn't seem to get as many MMOs popping up in its market as with Android, but things are slowly evening out. The imbalance right now might be due to the fact that Android phones feature larger screens and sometimes more power than the latest iOS phones, something that is simply appealing to gamers. I wonder whether we'll see a larger iPhone screen anytime soon? Probably so -- and that would mean more MMOs!

Continue reading MMObility: Parallel Zombies, Glitch's new butlers, and a new space MMO

MassivelyMMObility: Parallel Zombies, Glitch's new butlers, and a new space MMO originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidback-to-betabeau-hindmanbetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualempire-of-the-eclipsef2pfantasyfeaturedflashfree-to-playglitchhipsterIOSmmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionparallel-kingdomparallel-mafiaparallel-zombiesperbluephonesandboxsmartphonetiny-specktinyspeckunlauncheningzarksoftFri, 15 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Glitch's new updates stretch players' imaginations]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/mmobility-glitchs-new-updates-stretch-players-imaginations/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/mmobility-glitchs-new-updates-stretch-players-imaginations/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/mmobility-glitchs-new-updates-stretch-players-imaginations/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Glitch screenshot
When Tiny Speck, maker of the wonderfully odd browser-based sandbox Glitch, announced that it would be taking the game back to a beta state in order to retool many of the game's most essential systems, I was skeptical. Heck, I've remained skeptical. I stopped streaming the game due to time constraints but continued to log in and enjoy it. More specifically, I didn't feel like continuing to stream it until the new releases were officially released. I tend to enjoy betas but want to hold back my opinions until games are actually open, and this return to beta made me feel the same way.

Lately, however, the changes being tested and implemented into the game have just been too cool to stay hushed about. Housing is receiving wonderful, wonderful updates that will allow for complete creative freedom that is rarely seen in MMO housing. The UI is transforming as well, and new skills and creatures are being introduced.

Beta or not, there is some crazy-cool stuff going on in the land of Ur. In fact, check out these brand new patch notes!

Continue reading MMObility: Glitch's new updates stretch players' imaginations

MassivelyMMObility: Glitch's new updates stretch players' imaginations originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabeau-hindmanbetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualf2pfantasyfeaturedflashfree-to-playglitchhipsterhousing-changesmmobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonesandboxsmartphonetiny-specktinyspeckunlauncheningFri, 11 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Glitch swaps out XP for imagination, tweaks UI]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/glitch-swaps-out-xp-for-imagination-tweaks-ui/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/glitch-swaps-out-xp-for-imagination-tweaks-ui/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/glitch-swaps-out-xp-for-imagination-tweaks-ui/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Glitch - No idea what this is to be honest
It's a happy day if you've been yearning to scratch that browser-based sandbox itch. Yes, Glitch has returned with an overhauled user interface and the new imagination system.

What the heck is imagination? Well, glitches now have imagination (iMG) instead of XP. You gain iMG by questing, crafting, and collecting (i.e., by playing the game), and you can spend it on upgrades and various other gizmos still in the works. In short, iMG allows you to "create, grow, and customize the world and your character." It also serves as a nifty way of explaining new game abilities as opposed to boring old XP.

TinySpeck has authored a FAQ on the imagination changeover. Give it a read-through before you log in, as both the level curve and your character's accumulated XP have undergone significant changes.

[Thanks to Halldorr for the tip!]

MassivelyGlitch swaps out XP for imagination, tweaks UI originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-betabetabrowserbrowser-basedcasualf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playglitchglitch-imaginationglitch-imgglitch-uiglitch-xphipsterimaginationimgsandboxtinyspeckunlauncheningThu, 03 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Should players get a vote on content?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/the-daily-grind-should-players-get-a-vote-on-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/the-daily-grind-should-players-get-a-vote-on-content/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/the-daily-grind-should-players-get-a-vote-on-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Glitch
Nevermind games with complicated player councils -- TinySpeck's browser sandbox Glitch puts the power in the hands of the people. The game is free-to-play and back in beta, but once the game relaunches, those who've subscribed can make use of their accrued benefits, which include up to five votes per month in dev-led referenda on the game's content. Players can save their votes up and then cast them all at once or one at a time on whatever issues they feel deserve prioritization, although it's the devs, not the players, who will decide what each referendum entails.

So what do you think -- is it a good idea to let players vote (or pay to vote) on what content makes it into a game?

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: Should players get a vote on content? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrianna-royce-tdgbrowserf2pfree-to-playglitchopinionpay-to-votereferendumsandboxsubscriptiontdgthe-daily-grindtinyspeckvotevotingMon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Glitch wants to give you a free house]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/glitch-wants-to-give-you-a-free-house/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/glitch-wants-to-give-you-a-free-house/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/16/glitch-wants-to-give-you-a-free-house/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Glitch
Massively went gaga for quirky Flash-based sandbox MMO Glitch when it launched last fall, so we were dismayed when it unlaunched just a few short months later. Who unlaunches a game? Tiny Speck, that's who. The company sent the game back into beta for systems overhauls, including more robust housing, as Tiny Speck's Stewart Butterfield told us back in December.

This week, in a question-and-answer session on the official forums, Butterfield explains just how the new housing system will work. For starters, everyone will now begin the game as a homeowner. Existing players will be transitioned from their current, static homes into new base models, which can be upgraded (horizontally, vertically, and thematically) as players invest Imagination and undertake crafting projects. Players will even decide which types of gardens and animal pens will surround their abodes.

There's a whole lot more to the Q&A, including bits about economy overhauls, player-generated content, and the end of Lord of the Rings Online-style neighborhoods, so sandbox aficionados should review it or the summary in person.

[Thanks to Saucelah for the tip!]

MassivelyGlitch wants to give you a free house originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedcasualf2pfantasyflashfree-to-playglitchhousingpatchpatchesstewart-butterfieldtinyspeckMon, 16 Jan 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Katamari creator to work on Glitch MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/10/katamari-creator-to-work-on-glitch-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/10/katamari-creator-to-work-on-glitch-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/10/katamari-creator-to-work-on-glitch-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Tiny Speck has just added one of gaming's wunderkind developers to the team working on its Glitch MMO. Keita Takahashi, renowned as the brains behind Katamari Damacy and Noby Noby Boy, left Namco Bandai last year and has been keeping a low profile ever since.

He's also apparently been having serious discussions with Tiny Speck, and founder Steward Butterfield says that Takahashi has a lot in common with the existing creative team. "We shared the same values -- deep beliefs in curiosity, humor, absurdity, and above all a belief in the positive power of play," Butterfield told GamaSutra.

Glitch is a browser-based side-scrolling casual MMO that is currently undergoing beta testing. The game will launch sometime in 2011 according to the its official website.

MassivelyKatamari creator to work on Glitch MMO originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabrowserbrowser-basedcasualf2pfantasyfree-to-playglitchkeita-takahashimmo-industryside-scrollerstewart-butterfieldtiny-specktinyspeckSun, 10 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST