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[Five top tips for your first few days of Diablo III]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/five-top-tips-for-your-first-few-days-of-diablo-iii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/five-top-tips-for-your-first-few-days-of-diablo-iii/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/five-top-tips-for-your-first-few-days-of-diablo-iii/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Diablo III title image
Diablo III officially launched at midnight last night, opening the floodgates on what is possibly the most pre-ordered PC game in history. It's been almost 12 years since the previous game in the series launched, and it's still going to this day. Whether you've played previous games, have taken part in the Diablo III beta or are taking your first steps into Sanctuary today, everyone starts with a clean slate. In this article, I give my top five tips for spending your first few days wisely in Diablo III.

#5 - Spend most of your time on one character

It seems like a bit of a no-brainer to initially focus on one character, but in Diablo III's case, there's a special reason to do it. You'll likely finish normal mode around level 20-30, and until then, you'll get a new skill almost every level. It's only when you've completed normal mode and moved on to nightmare that the challenge really starts and you will have picked out an effective set of skills. Your last active skill unlocks at level 30, and from then on you'll gain a combination of two to three runes or passive skills every level until you hit the level cap at 60.

Read on for four more tips you should keep in mind as you start playing Diablo III.

Continue reading Five top tips for your first few days of Diablo III

MassivelyFive top tips for your first few days of Diablo III originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgauction-housebarrelsbattlenetblacksmithblizzardblizzard-entertainmentchartd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiifantasyfeaturedgothic-fantasygraphguideguideslaunch-daylevellevel-chartlevelinglevelsmultiplayeronline-multiplayerpartypassivesphysicsrpgrunessanctuaryskill-chartskillstipstop-fivetop-tipsweaponsTue, 15 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Once more into the rift, my friends]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/wings-over-atreia-once-more-into-the-rift-my-friends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/wings-over-atreia-once-more-into-the-rift-my-friends/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/wings-over-atreia-once-more-into-the-rift-my-friends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia
A rifting we will go
A rifting we will go
Hi-ho, the derry-o
A rifting we will go!

The Asmo makes a slice!
The Asmo makes a slice...

Ahh, the frivolity of travel songs; they entertain and amuse as well as pass the time while you're en route to your destination, even in Aion. And where am I headed while chanting this little ditty? Why, deep into the dangers of enemy territory, of course! Care to join me?

If you haven't traveled through a rift in Aion, you are missing out on one of the core features of the game, not to mention depriving yourself of some fun. Admittedly, rifting has a bad rap and can be quite a polarizing topic in discussion, but don't be fooled -- it's not just for PvPers. Not everyone who rifts is looking to completely gank others; even carebears can experience and enjoy the thrill of sneaking somewhere fraught with dangers! So what's stopping you from slipping through that colorful swirl?

Let me borrow the immortal words of wisdom from a shoe: Just do it! But before you go, let Wings Over Atreia offer a few handy tips to help you make the most of the experience.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Once more into the rift, my friends

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Once more into the rift, my friends originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionAPbroken-allianceeventf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhaving-funhintshumorin-game-eventin-game-eventsncsoftopinionPvPriftingrifting-eventtipstips-and-trickswings-over-atreiaMon, 07 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: Referee Ruby makes friends in Free Realms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/exclusive-referee-ruby-makes-friends-in-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/exclusive-referee-ruby-makes-friends-in-free-realms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/exclusive-referee-ruby-makes-friends-in-free-realms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Free Realms' Referee Ruby
Not everyone can be Referee Ruby, but everyone can make friends in Free Realms, or so says today's exclusive video from Sony Online Entertainment. Ruby is back with tips on how players young and old can win friends and influence people in the free-to-play MMO. Mind your manners and don't be a jerk, she says (a simple lesson ignored by too many gamers), but above all else, get a boombox with the hottest tunes, trick out an awesome house for entertaining, and throw a party -- because everyone loves a party. Naturally, the very best party supplies and structures are purchased in the Free Realms cash shop, and Ruby shows viewers how it's done. Hey, no one said friendship was cheap!

Grab your favorite boombox and hit the break to see Free Realms' Making Friends video in full.

Continue reading Exclusive: Referee Ruby makes friends in Free Realms

MassivelyExclusive: Referee Ruby makes friends in Free Realms originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceexclusivef2pFRfree-realmsfree-to-playfriendsmaking-friendsreferee-rubysoeSony-Online-EntertainmenttipsvideovideosFri, 19 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Ten tips to avoid drama burnout, part two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/storyboard-ten-tips-to-avoid-drama-burnout-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/storyboard-ten-tips-to-avoid-drama-burnout-part-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/storyboard-ten-tips-to-avoid-drama-burnout-part-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Last week, I posted the first half of ten tips to avoid getting burnt out on roleplaying drama. Ironically enough, it immediately preceded a week which involved almost nonstop in-character drama which was, not coincidentally, completely free of any real-world drama. (At least to the best of my knowledge.) My hat goes off to the people involved (I'm lucky to be part of some excellent groups), and I'm very glad that I had all of this fresh in my mind.

If you haven't read the first part of the column, I advise you to do so first, but let's recap just in case. The goal here is to provide tips to help reduce real-world drama and minimize hurt feelings spilling into the real world. I don't claim that this will be in any way a cure-all, but these tips should at least help reduce the odds of screaming matches that scare you off roleplaying for good. Everyone on the same page? Then let's move on to the second half.

Continue reading Storyboard: Ten tips to avoid drama burnout, part two

MassivelyStoryboard: Ten tips to avoid drama burnout, part two originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advicecolumnculturedealing-with-dramadramadrama-llamasfeaturedopinionroleplayingrpstoryboardtipsFri, 05 Aug 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Boss world tour -- Inggison]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/wings-over-atreia-boss-world-tour-inggison/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/wings-over-atreia-boss-world-tour-inggison/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/11/wings-over-atreia-boss-world-tour-inggison/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Back in January, Wings Over Atreia brought you the first installment of a series highlighting the who, where, what, and even some how of Aion's world bosses. At that time, we took a tour around the land of Heiron and met up with those tough (and some not-so-tough) bosses who taunt players with their juicy, coveted loot. But Heiron is for youngins; this week, we will focus our tour on the playground of the highest levels, the lands of Balaurea -- specifically, Inggison.

It never fails -- the best goodies are never the easy-to-get goodies. As much as Daevas may want to get their hot little hands on some of the weapons, armor, and crafting materials dropped by these world bosses, they have to first find these giants and second actually defeat them. So much easier said than done. On the bright side, some of the mobs are easier to kill and can even be soloed (although they are also well-camped). On the not-bright side, others don't seem to show their faces as often as hungry loot-hunters would like, or they take a friend or 20 to take down. So what's a Daeva to do?

Soar past the cut for some tips, tricks, and a handy map for seeking out those Inggison bosses and convincing them to give up their loot.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Boss world tour -- Inggison

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Boss world tour -- Inggison originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-gamebalaureabossbosseseliteelite-grade-mobseliteseternal-grade-lootexploitexploitsfeaturedgold-armorgold-weaponherohero-grade-mobhinthintsInggisonlegendarylegendary-grade-moblootmapsnamed-mobnamed-mobsnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aiontipstricksWings-Over-Atreiaworld-bossworld-bossesMon, 11 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Another chance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/storyboard-another-chance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/storyboard-another-chance/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/storyboard-another-chance/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Character regrets are a tricky thing. To be sure, they're a tricky thing that we've already discussed when it comes to making characters, but that's hardly the end. Then you have to bring your character out of the controlled environment of the character creator and into the madness of actual open play. And if you haven't created a regretful character... odds are you've still seen the problem.

Even when you've crafted a character with a dark past and a lot of regrets without falling into maudlin traps... none of that means anything if other players don't know about it. You fall into the trap of telling people you've met not half an hour before about your character's full life history and all her mistakes, and then people get bored and quite possibly wander off.

I focus a lot on character creation, but all of the best backstory in the world won't help you if you don't know how to weave it into actual play. So today I'm going to talk about how to take your character's backstory of mistakes and poor choices and bring it into actual play without sounding like you'll confess your innermost secrets to random passersby.

Continue reading Storyboard: Another chance

MassivelyStoryboard: Another chance originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycharactercolumnculturefeaturefeaturedinteractionsopinionpersonalityplayroleplayingrpstoryboardtipsFri, 18 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alter-Ego: Nine tips for PvP in DC Universe Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/alter-ego-nine-tips-for-pvp-in-dc-universe-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/alter-ego-nine-tips-for-pvp-in-dc-universe-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/alter-ego-nine-tips-for-pvp-in-dc-universe-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

First things first: I'm going to admit openly that I'm not even close to the world's best PvPer, as anyone who has ever faced off in PvP against me can tell you. Up until recently, I tended to be the ultra-carebear player who generally avoids PvP combat altogether (outside of EVE Online). However, by ignoring PvP in DC Universe Online, one also ignores a decent chunk of the game's content. Between the open-world Green Lantern ring wars, quests to take on heroes or villains of a certain level range, Arena matches, and Legends play, there's a lot to do -- not to mention the challenge of playing on a PvP server. Worse still, PvE players will find their quest logs become cluttered messes full of PvP-related quests that can't be dropped -- an annoying prospect at best.

So with this in mind, I've compiled a handful of general tips for those PvE fans who don't tend to mess with PvP in DC Universe Online as well as players who have only dabbled in it. Are there I-win-button tips behind the break? Not really. However, it's good solid advice that's helped me improve my skills from utterly noobtastic insta-death to holding my own. If that sounds interesting to you, then join me behind the break for the list!

Continue reading Alter-Ego: Nine tips for PvP in DC Universe Online

MassivelyAlter-Ego: Nine tips for PvP in DC Universe Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alter-egoarenaarenascapture-and-holdcapture-the-flagconsoledc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedguideking-of-the-hilllegendspcplayer-versus-playerpowersps3pvpskillssoesony-online-entertainmenttipstips-and-tricksSat, 05 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: In the thick of it]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/storyboard-in-the-thick-of-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/storyboard-in-the-thick-of-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/04/storyboard-in-the-thick-of-it/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Talking amongst ourselves only goes so far when it comes to roleplaying. Eventually there comes a time when you have to get up and get your character moving, or you're going to wind up playing a Federation captain whose mission is to explore strange new ways to sit on Risa without doing anything. And while you can certainly treat the leveling process as a sideline to the interaction, why would you want to do that?

Roleplaying in the midst of content isn't just a good idea, it's a great way to build character and really get your mettle tested. It means that you have to adapt to a different style of roleplaying, one that doesn't have the space for long-winded speeches or discussing the intricacies of your past. It seems so natural, but I know an awful lot of roleplayers who haven't tried it. But we're not just going to put forth a call to start getting out into dungeons or fleet actions or task forces with roleplaying partners -- no, we're going to talk about how to do it so that you don't wind up getting decorated with your own viscera.

Continue reading Storyboard: In the thick of it

MassivelyStoryboard: In the thick of it originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advicecolumncontentdungeonsdynamic-roleplayingendgamefeaturedhandwavinghomeworklevel-disparitymissionsopinionroleplayroleplayingrpstoryboardtipstips-and-trickstrickstyping-practiceFri, 04 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Mining 101 -- The basics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/09/eve-evolved-mining-101-the-basics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/09/eve-evolved-mining-101-the-basics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/09/eve-evolved-mining-101-the-basics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Although it's not everyone's cup of tea, mining is one of EVE Online's oldest and most easily accessible professions. Sitting down to clear out a few asteroid belts or put a dent in a massive ice asteroid can be a very relaxing way to make ISK. Mining is a very low-activity process that can be done at the same time as other tasks, much in the same way that hauling items for trade or running courier missions can be done in the background. In all the time that the EVE Evolved column has been running, it struck me that I had never really written a guide for mining.

Mining can be a good way to make some extra ISK during a lull in corp activity or while you're busy doing other things. Busy EVE players will often set themselves up to mine solo while reading a good book or watching TV. On the other end of the scale, corporations and alliances will sometimes run large co-operative mining operations for war funds or personal profit. Mining as a group is usually a more efficient use of the time of each player in the group and can make a great bonding experience for a corporation.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I give a run-down of the basics of mining for new players. I look at the entry-level ship requirements for efficient mining and popular strategies for both solo and group mining.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Mining 101 -- The basics

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Mining 101 -- The basics originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpEVE-Evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedguideguidesice-miningjetcanjettisonminermineralsminersminingmining-opsnew-playernew-player-guidenew-playersninja-miningretrievertipsSun, 09 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2029 Online dev diary talks battle instance tips]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/2029-online-dev-diary-talks-battle-instance-tips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/2029-online-dev-diary-talks-battle-instance-tips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/2029-online-dev-diary-talks-battle-instance-tips/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

We haven't checked in with 2029 Online in quite a while, and what better way to take an updated glance at the game than via a new dev diary released by IGG. The free-to-play MMORTS features dozens of distinct instances to challenge players, each designed to provide ample experience and loot rewards in addition to the considerable fun factor.

Join us after the cut for tips and drop information on the Clone Factory, the Lab, Fox Ruins, and the Virtual Training Center.

Continue reading 2029 Online dev diary talks battle instance tips

Massively2029 Online dev diary talks battle instance tips originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20292029-onlineclone-factorydev-diaryfox-ruinsguidesiggigg.cominstanceslabstrategytipsvirtual-training-centerWed, 01 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Long-term goals]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/wasteland-diaries-long-term-goals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/wasteland-diaries-long-term-goals/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/wasteland-diaries-long-term-goals/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

So you're a brand-new clone in Fallen Earth, dressed in your snappy LifeNet ensemble? So far you've managed to get yourself blown to bits inside the bowels of the Hoover Dam. Remember that awesome scoped battle rifle you were using? Well, forget that. The weapons you will be using for the time being will be a bit more primitive and a lot less deadly. Luckily for you, Elena Winters was able to respawn you safely away from the dam.

After being led around by the nose, you're no doubt ready to begin making some of your own decisions. I'm going to tell you that you aren't quite ready to do that. Not just yet. Before you go off on your own, there are some important things you need to know. These things I will tell you will save you a lot of trouble later on. I wish someone had given me all the information I'm going to give you, but I learned it the hard way. As they say: "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." This also holds true in Fallen Earth. Now that you're in a safe place, I'll get that handy information to you after the break.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Long-term goals

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Long-term goals originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbuildbuildscharacter-buildingcharacter-buildscraftingfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedhintsicarusicarus-studiosmutationsrerollrerollingskillsstatstipsFri, 19 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Paragon Studios answers our questions about Issue 19 of City of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/paragon-studios-answers-our-questions-about-issue-19-of-city-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/paragon-studios-answers-our-questions-about-issue-19-of-city-of/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/paragon-studios-answers-our-questions-about-issue-19-of-city-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Just three months after the major upheaval of Going Rogue, City of Heroes is getting another big update in the form of Issue 19. Bringing with it new task forces, the first part of the new Incarnate system, the long-awaited baseline Fitness pool, and several other quality-of-life improvements, the issue is packed to bursting with things for players to enjoy. So we naturally had a few questions, even above and beyond our first impressions of both the Incarnate system and the new Apex task force.

Of course, this issue isn't the work of just one or two people within Paragon Studios, but the whole team. So it was fitting that we got our questions about the newest update to City of Heroes answered by several members of the team. Melissa Bianco, Matt Miller, Sean McCann, and Tim Sweeney all took the time to answer some quick questions about the substance of the update, so click on past the break to see our questions and their responses.

Continue reading Paragon Studios answers our questions about Issue 19 of City of Heroes

MassivelyParagon Studios answers our questions about Issue 19 of City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apex-task-forcecity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-going-roguecity-of-villainscohcovcoxcraftingendgameendgame-systemenhancementsfitnessfitness-poolgoing-roguegri19incarnate-systemincarnatesinteviewsissue-19ncsoftparagonparagon-studiospatchespraetoriatin-mage-task-forcetip-missionstipsupdatesMon, 15 Nov 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[City of Heroes previews the coming Issue 19]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/city-of-heroes-previews-the-coming-issue-19/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/city-of-heroes-previews-the-coming-issue-19/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/city-of-heroes-previews-the-coming-issue-19/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

We've known about the bare basics of Issue 19 for a little while now, but City of Heroes players have just been treated to a new explosion of information about the game's next major content patch. And it promises to be quite a big update, with two new task forces, new events in Praetoria, and some alternate animations and auras that had not been previously announced. Several powers will now have a number of locations that can be used as a launching point, so you could fire your Radiation Blasts from your eyes, one hand, both hands, or other possibilities. More tip and morality missions are being added, as well as the option for characters who were not from Praetoria to enter the city.

It couldn't come at a better time, as Praetoria's infiltration and invasion are the center of the two new task forces. Overseen by Apex and Tin Mage, two important lore figures, the chains have characters face off against Praetors and uniquely Praetorian enemies to keep their world safe from Emperor Cole's designs. There are also new live events being added in Praetoria, such as a mass protest that heroes can take part in or help shut down. With the previously announced first Incarnate slot and the move of Fitness to inherent (with a slight clarification of unclear wording), the update promises to be an infusion of both content and systems for City of Heroes, so take a look at the official rundown for more.

MassivelyCity of Heroes previews the coming Issue 19 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alignment-systemalpha-strikeaurascharacter-aurascharacter-customizationcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcontactscovcoxcustomizationgame-updatesincarnate-systemincarnatesissue-19major-updatesmoralityncsoftparagonparagon-studiospatchespraetorianspratoriapreviewstask-forcetask-forcestipsupdatesTue, 05 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Transformative edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/ask-massively-transformative-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/ask-massively-transformative-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/ask-massively-transformative-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Welcome back to another edition of Ask Massively, the column that certainly hasn't been on any sort of hiatus for a little while. No sir. Well, all right, maybe a small one after all. You might notice some small changes with the column, such as the fact that the dashingly handsome Shawn Schuster has handed the reins of questions-and-answers off to the much-less-dashing and notably less-handsome Eliot Lefebvre. But it's still the same high-quality information as ever.

This week has been just a little bit lean, due to the fact that our unannounced hiatus left many readers scratching their heads. But go ahead and jump on past the cut for some pearls of wisdom regarding Global Agenda and Final Fantasy XIV. Next week we're hoping to have a few more questions, so feel free to mail yours along to ask@massively.com or leave them in the comments field!

Continue reading Ask Massively: Transformative edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: Transformative edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MassivelyAnti-Aliased: Breaking into MMO gaming journalism pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-aliaseddo-you-love-video-gamesfeaturedfinding-a-jobgame-bloggergame-columnistgaming-journalismgetting-a-jobjob-helpjob-tipsmediaopiniontipsFri, 17 Sep 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Both sides now]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/a-mild-mannered-reporter-both-sides-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/a-mild-mannered-reporter-both-sides-now/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/a-mild-mannered-reporter-both-sides-now/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Back when Going Rogue was first released, I made a point that I wasn't going into detail on the alignment and tip system. As I saw it at the time, there were two major reasons not to go whole-hog into it, the first being that I was already writing an entire novel on the expansion, and the second being that Paragon Wiki was hard at work putting more details into place. Why try to reinvent the wheel in a weekly column? And there was also a third reason: I'd been spending more time in Praetoria than on my old characters.

So I suppose in some way I ought to thank whichever designer gave my poor brute the chance to fight two elite bosses at the same time with three NPCs as backup in a single-player mission. It gave me plenty of incentive to spend more time with my higher-level characters. (Seriously, that mission is absurd.) That meant I started diving into the alignment system, and that means I'm going to spend more time detailing one of the centerpieces of City of Heroes gameplay at the moment: alignment.

Continue reading A Mild-Mannered Reporter: Both sides now

MassivelyA Mild-Mannered Reporter: Both sides now originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alignmentalignment-switchingalignment-systemcity-of-heroesCity-of-VillainsCOHCoVcoxfeaturedgoing-roguemild-mannered-reportermoralitymorality-systemncsoftparagonparagon-cohparagon-studiospraetoriaRogueroguelikeroguesRolePlayingtiptipsvigilantevigilantesvillainsWed, 15 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Lasting past level two]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/storyboard-lasting-past-level-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/storyboard-lasting-past-level-two/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/storyboard-lasting-past-level-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

So you have what you are absolutely certain is a spectacular idea for a character. You spend the better part of a week planning and preparing for this new addition to your stable of alts. Then you create your character, get into the starting area, and you start going to town... and then you log off. And you never touch that character again, because every time you think about logging back in, a deep malaise takes over and you quickly switch to someone else.

It's not that you didn't genuinely want to play the character. But for whatever reason, that concept that you had which was so solid turned out to be lacking a fundamental element: something to make you stick with him. It's a bad fate for a good concept, and today, we're taking a closer look at how you can try to ensure that your newest baby doesn't end up getting tossed out with the bathwater.

Continue reading Storyboard: Lasting past level two

MassivelyStoryboard: Lasting past level two originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advicecharacter-conceptcharacter-typeconceptconceptsfeaturedopinionplanningpracticeproblem-conceptsroleplayingrpstoryboardtipsFri, 13 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Take a hint]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/wasteland-diaries-take-a-hint/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/wasteland-diaries-take-a-hint/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/wasteland-diaries-take-a-hint/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In the past, I've written guides to help new Fallen Earth players. Most of the information I put in these guides is common knowledge. I have compiled a list of things one should know about playing Fallen Earth, whether one is a brand new clone or a grizzled veteran of the wastes. This guide is different because it isn't really a guide at all, just a compilation of advice.

Most of this stuff may not help you, but I can assure you, at least one of these bits of wisdom will be of use to you. Essentially, I have compiled a list of useful hints, tips and tricks that I think every player should know. Some of them might evoke a facepalm from the veterans, and some might make life easier for a new player, but you will learn something. So without any further ado, proceed past the cut and prepare to be enlightened.

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Take a hint

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Take a hint originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfeaturedguidehintshotkeysicarusicarus-studioskeybindingspost-apocalypticSandboxtipstips-trickstrickswasteland-diariesFri, 06 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Exploration -- Top tips]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/18/eve-evolved-exploration-top-tips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/18/eve-evolved-exploration-top-tips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/18/eve-evolved-exploration-top-tips/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Over the past two weeks, I've been giving an in-depth look at EVE Online's exploration profession. Exploration is one of the many PvE elements that players can get involved in right from their first week in EVE. By concentrating on astrometrics skills, a new player can be a more-than-competent prober within a week. Although some sites may require the help of an older player for the first few months, it's still one of the most fun PvE elements a new player can get into. In the first part of this three-part guide, I went over the basic equipment and techniques you'll need to scan down hidden complexes. In last week's second part, I went on to look at the different types of hidden site you can discover, what loot you can expect to find in each of them and what kind of challenge you'll face.

Since the exploration system was launched many years ago, I've picked up a few tricks and tips that can help any explorer. In this final part of the EVE Evolved guide to exploration, I run down my four top tips for budding explorers.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Exploration -- Top tips

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Exploration -- Top tips originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdotlaneveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlineexplorationexplorerfeaturednew-playernew-player-experiencenew-playersnewbieprobesprofessionspvescan-probesscanningtipstips-and-trickswormhole-explorationwormholesSun, 18 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Storyboard: Getting into the scene]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/storyboard-getting-into-the-scene/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/storyboard-getting-into-the-scene/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/storyboard-getting-into-the-scene/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

So, I lied. While I had originally been planning on something different for this week's column, I had a new topic more or less thrown to my doorstep from Bio Break. It's all well and good to talk about roleplaying as if everyone has been doing it since small times, but there are plenty of players with a vague curiosity who have never tried it out. For them, roleplaying is like heroin, vaguely promising a good time while always seeming dangerous, with the failures so publicly visible that...

You know, I'm dropping that analogy right now before it starts looking terrifyingly appropriate.

The point is that people are interested who aren't sure quite where to start. Thus, we're taking this week to put together a few things that help make it just a little easier to get into the joy of roleplay without getting bored, unintentionally stepping on toes, or winding up as the butt of everyone's in-character jokes. We can be a catty bunch. But you can get started without drama or too many issues, and it's not as bad as you might think.

Continue reading Storyboard: Getting into the scene

MassivelyStoryboard: Getting into the scene originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>characterscolumnfeaturedgetting-startedgetting-started-with-rpin-game-maillettersmailopinionroleplayingrpstoryboardsuggestionstipstricksFri, 18 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Ratting, part 2: Flying safe!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/30/eve-evolved-ratting-part-2-flying-safe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/30/eve-evolved-ratting-part-2-flying-safe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/30/eve-evolved-ratting-part-2-flying-safe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Last week I discussed the basics of the "ratting" profession in EVE Online, from picking a good system to three popular ratting strategies. If you're planning to hunt NPCs in nullsec, of course, you'll need to get there first. Pilots who aren't in an alliance with secure access to nullsec will have to run the gauntlet from empire space to their chosen ratting system. The entry points into EVE's nullsec regions are often camped during peak hours and you can expect to run into roaming gangs. Things get a little easier once you're at your destination, but you can still expect to see the occasional pilot or gang passing through the system. Your ability to get into nullsec safely and your efficiency at ratting will be determined largely by the ship you're using and how it's set up. For someone who's never been to nullsec before, setting up a ship for the task and heading into the void can be a daunting task.

In this article, I look at selecting the appropriate ship for ratting, some popular ship setups and important safety tips that will help keep your ship safe in hostile territory.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Ratting, part 2: Flying safe!

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Ratting, part 2: Flying safe! originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 30 May 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angel-cartelblood-raiderbubbleccpccp-eveccp-gameseveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedguidesisknpcnpcspiratespveratsrattingsanshaserpentistipsSun, 30 May 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anti-Aliased: Burnout, revenge]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/anti-aliased-burnout-revenge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/anti-aliased-burnout-revenge/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/anti-aliased-burnout-revenge/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Oh those sparkle ponies. They were a fun diversion last week, and a pretty fun topic to write on. Kudos to Blizzard for making crazy amounts of cash last week -- you guys at the marketing department really knew your audience and how much they'd pay for a shiny mount. While I may disagree with the size of the price tag, I still admire how well that move worked out for them. I'm sure we'll be seeing more things like that for World of Warcraft in the future.

Anyway, let's move onwards to this week's topic: MMO burnout. Almost all of us experience it at least once with one of our favorite games, and some of us have experienced it more than once across a single game or many games. Right now, I'm really with you guys who are suffering from burnout. I've been looking for a good game to sink my teeth into, but I just can't seem to find "the one" right now.

So I'm off doing some other activities, trying to rekindle that spark of love for MMOs. This week I want to talk about some of the ways I've been combating burnout, much like Mr. Kyle Horner did before me, and hopefully you guys can chime in with some ways of your own!

Continue reading Anti-Aliased: Burnout, revenge

MassivelyAnti-Aliased: Burnout, revenge originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceanti-aliasedburnoutculturefeaturedgaminggroupingopiniontipstiredThu, 29 Apr 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wasteland Diaries: Try not to be such a noob]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/wastland-diaries-try-not-to-be-such-a-noob/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/wastland-diaries-try-not-to-be-such-a-noob/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/wastland-diaries-try-not-to-be-such-a-noob/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth has a steep learning curve. It's not hard to die a horrible death in Fallen Earth because you simply didn't have even the slightest clue what you were doing. But life doesn't have to be short and brutal in the wasteland. In fact, you can eke out a decent living and make quite a name for yourself. There are a few things you can do to minimize the bewilderment you will face once you emerge from the LifeNet pod for the first time into the unforgiving desolation of the apocalypse. After reading this guide, you are likely to be heard saying things like: "Y'know what? The apocalypse isn't all that bad." and "I wish this place were just a little more dangerous."

Continue reading Wasteland Diaries: Try not to be such a noob

MassivelyWasteland Diaries: Try not to be such a noob originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buildbuildingcraftingfactionfactionsfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfaqfaqshelphintsnoobnoob-guidenoobztipstips-and-trickstips-tricksFri, 23 Apr 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 2: High-end healing]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/28/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-2-high-end-healing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/28/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-2-high-end-healing/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/28/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-2-high-end-healing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

In the first of this two-part guide, I looked at some of the more affordable entry level ships and modules available to dedicated healers in EVE Online. I went on to examine an effective strategy for using medic ships as part of a PvE gang, whether you need some help on a particularly hard mission or you're trying to crack one of EVE's hardest exploration complexes. This week, I look at high-end healing as I explore capital ships and the role of medic ships in both PvP and wormhole operations.

Healing in missions and exploration sites is a largely passive affair, with the healer permanently locked to the main tank. NPCs in these sites never switch targets but the same can't be said for players or the advanced Sleeper AI that roam wormhole systems. Repairing your gang-mates in PvP or a wormhole operation is a completely different affair, made all the more complicated by the fact that the dedicated medic ship is sure to come under fire.

In this article, I look at capital ships and the remote assistance strategies players use in PvP or wormhole operations.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 2: High-end healing

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 2: High-end healing originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capitalcarrierccpccp-eveccp-gamescruisereveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedguardianguideguideshealhealerhealinglogisticsmedicmedic-shiponeirospvepvprorqualsleepersleeperstanktankingtipswormholewormholesSun, 28 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 1: The healers of EVE]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/21/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-1-the-healers-of-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/21/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-1-the-healers-of-eve/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/21/eve-evolved-medic-ships-part-1-the-healers-of-eve/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The holy trinity of tank, healer and damage-dealer is present in every MMO, including EVE Online. While most MMOs dedicate these roles to specific classes, ships in EVE can do all three at the same time. When running missions solo, for example, a ship will need to tank incoming damage, repair it and deal damage themselves. Setting up a ship for solo PvE becomes a balancing act between the three roles. Too little tank and you'll find yourself in trouble, but too little damage and you'll take forever to kill NPCs.

As part of a gang, however, remote armour repair and shield transfer modules allow pilots to specialise into a traditional healer role. Rather than having each player repair their own damage, it can be much more effective to have a dedicated medic ship to repair anyone that gets shot at. There are even specialised ships for would-be healers in EVE, from entry-level cruisers to advanced Tech 2 Logistics ships and massive capital ships. Medic ships can be an effective part of any gang, whether you're tackling a tough level 4 or 5 mission or engaging in large-scale gang PvP.

In this first part of a two-part look into dedicated healers in EVE Online, I look at the more affordable ships and modules available and the best strategy for healing in PvE.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 1: The healers of EVE

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Medic ships, part 1: The healers of EVE originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 21 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarrcaldariccpccp-eveccp-gamesdpseveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedgallentegroupgroupsguardianguidehealerhealershealinglogisticsminmataroneirossolotanktankingtipstips-and-tricksSun, 21 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Staying safe in high security space]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/eve-evolved-staying-safe-in-high-security-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/eve-evolved-staying-safe-in-high-security-space/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/28/eve-evolved-staying-safe-in-high-security-space/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One of EVE Online's defining factors is the idea that you're not completely safe anywhere in the game. If you're not docked in a station or securely logged off, there's always a chance that someone will pick a fight with you. Many pilots opt to stay in the relative safety of high security space but even this isn't an absolutely safe area. Suicide attacks, corporate wars, can flippers and loot thieves are a common sight in New Eden and if you don't know how to handle them, you could find yourself on the business end of a 150mm railgun.

In this guide for newer EVE players, I look at the main threats you could be exposed to in high security space and how to keep yourself safe in spite of them.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Staying safe in high security space

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Staying safe in high security space originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aggressionccpccp-eveccp-gamescorpcorporationeveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedGame-Mechanicsgankguidehighsechulkageddonhulkageddon-2hulkageddon-iisafesafetysuicidetipstips-and-trickstrickwarSun, 28 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Five useful starbase configurations]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/14/eve-evolved-five-useful-starbase-configurations/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/14/eve-evolved-five-useful-starbase-configurations/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/14/eve-evolved-five-useful-starbase-configurations/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Player housing is one of those features we love to see in an MMO but every game that has it seems to implement it differently. Sometimes it's limited to instanced rooms the player can decorate and sometimes it's a little more functional like shared guild halls. In EVE Online, the closest thing to widely-available player housing would be anchorable starbases, which can be configured to serve a variety of functional roles. Originally, their primary purpose was to mine moon minerals and react them to produce advanced materials for Tech 2 production.

Starbases can be very useful as tactical staging points for PvP operations. With the right modules anchored around them, they can also be configured for use in other industries, from mining and manufacturing to research and deep space exploration. Until recently, they also played a critical role in EVE's alliance sovereignty warfare as the alliance with the most starbases in a system gained control of it. With that role now fulfilled by Outposts, Infrastructure Hubs and Territorial Claim Units, starbases have mostly returned to their former industrial and tactical uses.

In this article, I look at five different starbase configurations that can be very useful to organised corporations.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Five useful starbase configurations

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Five useful starbase configurations originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 14 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-eveccp-gamesdeath-stardepotdominioneveeve-ccpeve-evolvedeve-mmorpgeve-onlinefeaturedpiracyplayer-housingplayer-owned-starbasepospvpsafespotsleepersovereigntystarbaseterritorial-controltipstips-and-trickswormholewormhole-explorationwormholesSun, 14 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's Star Trek Online launch day roundup]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/massivelys-star-trek-online-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/massivelys-star-trek-online-launch-day-roundup/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/massivelys-star-trek-online-launch-day-roundup/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Today marks the official launch date for Cryptic Studios' newest title, Star Trek Online. We know there's a massive amount of information for new players to process, so we've put together a nice round-up of our various guides, tips and op-ed features to help out. Follow our advice and you should be more than ready to begin your heady Starfleet (Or Klingon Empire!) career.

Of course, of you're looking for an even more wonderful hub of information, you should check out our shiny new dedicated Star Trek Online page. It'll serve as the go-to place for any new guides, interviews, patches game lore and videos.

So -- as Sera Brennan would say -- without any further delay, let's take a trip down memory lane and look back at the best of our STO coverage...

Continue reading Massively's Star Trek Online launch day roundup

MassivelyMassively's Star Trek Online launch day roundup originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdev-blogdeveloper-blogguideofficial-dev-blogst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-101stotipstrek-onlineTue, 02 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anti-Aliased: Leadership tips from a former roleplaying raid officer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/anti-aliased-leadership-tips-from-a-former-roleplaying-raid-off/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/anti-aliased-leadership-tips-from-a-former-roleplaying-raid-off/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/anti-aliased-leadership-tips-from-a-former-roleplaying-raid-off/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"Roleplaying" and "raid" both in the same sentence? Blasphemy! Yet, that was my position back in World of Warcraft, and I certainly roleplayed while participating in PvP and massive PvE (almost akin to raids) in The Matrix Online before its demise. Before all of that, I was a roleplaying guild leader in Final Fantasy XI and Phantasy Star Online, so I've been around guilds for a long, long time.

If there has been any constant throughout my long string of positions as guild leader, linkshell leader, faction leader, and raid officer it has been thus -- leadership is tough. Sure you can surround yourself with raid guides, memorize every battle perfectly, and be wearing the most epic of epic gear, but if you don't learn how to work with others then you're most likely doomed to fail.

Raiding and multi-man content means working as a team, and that means someone's got to step up to the plate to take the reins. Leading a group or raid isn't easy, but I can tell you that it's well, well worth it. To that end, if you're just starting out on the path of leadership or are looking for a few tips to help out your raiding group, I think I might have some advice for you guys.

(Editor's Note: Sorry about the glitch! Part 2 is now available!)

Continue reading Anti-Aliased: Leadership tips from a former roleplaying raid officer

MassivelyAnti-Aliased: Leadership tips from a former roleplaying raid officer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceanti-aliasedfeaturedguideguildleadershipofficerraid-leaderraid-leader-guideraidingraidstipsFri, 29 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phasers set to fun, sit back and bust out the popcorn]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/phasers-set-to-fun-sit-back-and-bust-out-the-popcorn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/phasers-set-to-fun-sit-back-and-bust-out-the-popcorn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/14/phasers-set-to-fun-sit-back-and-bust-out-the-popcorn/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Got a couple hours to burn? Love Star Trek and subsequently find yourself enjoying Star Trek Online? Well, we've got a couple videos you may want to watch, for entertainment purposes as opposed to tips related purposes. Giant Bomb has two -- although the "parts" aspects suggests further entries -- videos of a few guys sitting around playing Cryptic's upcoming Trek MMO and, well, basically being silly dorks. They start at character creation and hit the ground running, all while providing the kind of commentary that quite possibly could make you want to have on headphones if you're on a lunch break at work.

It's fun stuff, and if you've got some time to kill the videos will most certainly help make time fly by more quickly. You can find the two videos embedded after the break.

Continue reading Phasers set to fun, sit back and bust out the popcorn

MassivelyPhasers set to fun, sit back and bust out the popcorn originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataricommunitycrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosgiant-bombst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotipstrek-onlinetutorialvideoThu, 14 Jan 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Seven tips for Star Trek Online newbies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/seven-tips-for-star-trek-online-newbies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/seven-tips-for-star-trek-online-newbies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/seven-tips-for-star-trek-online-newbies/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There's certainly a lot of lesser known MMO concepts to learn in Star Trek Online, and there's also some familiar aspects as well. With open beta ongoing and launch looming, this guide is here to help brand new players ease into the swing of things. We'll cover the odd class system, progression and several other tips and suggestions for those of you just beginning your venture into a galaxy full of Gorn raiders, Orion slavers and uh, Tribbles.

Continue reading Seven tips for Star Trek Online newbies

MassivelySeven tips for Star Trek Online newbies originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribetacrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosfeaturedgornguideguidesopen-betaorionst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotiptipstrek-onlinetribbletribblesWed, 13 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Five interesting combat tactics, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/10/eve-evolved-five-interesting-combat-tactics-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/10/eve-evolved-five-interesting-combat-tactics-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/10/eve-evolved-five-interesting-combat-tactics-part-2/#commentsContinue reading EVE Evolved: Five interesting combat tactics, part 2

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Five interesting combat tactics, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bubblebumpbumpingccpccp-gameseveeve-evolvedeve-onlinegatecamplogisticsmaneuversoverviewtacticaltacticstipstips-and-trickswarpSun, 10 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Five interesting combat tactics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/10/eve-evolved-five-interesting-combat-tactics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/10/eve-evolved-five-interesting-combat-tactics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/10/eve-evolved-five-interesting-combat-tactics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Although EVE Online's combat isn't twitch-based, the outcome is often swayed by strong tactical and strategic influences. Whether you're running missions, battling Sleeper AI in a wormhole site or engaging other players in PvP, chances are you've pulled off a few fancy tactical maneuvers. Over the years, we learn these little tricks and teach them to each other. From mundane ways to avoid damage from NPCs to the cat and mouse games we play with other players, tactical maneuvers are a big part of EVE's gameplay. In this short article, I look at a few of the tips and tactics players use to gain an edge in combat.

Angular velocity:
If you've ever used a turret-based ship and found yourself missing enemies a lot, there are a few tricks you can do to even the score. Open the overview settings menu and under "column" select "Angular Velocity". This shows the transverse velocity of enemy ships relative to your own in radians per second, which is the same measurement your turret tracking score uses. By checking the show-info pane on your guns, you can look up the maximum tracking speed of your guns. Ships with an angular velocity greater than your turret's tracking speed will be practically impossible to hit so having this information on-hand means you can avoid picking targets that will just waste your time and ammo. Another useful trick to do is to match your course and speed as closely as you can with an enemy ship rather than just approaching it. This will decrease their angular velocity relative to your ship, allowing you to hit some fast ships you otherwise wouldn't be able to.

Skip past the cut for four more interesting tactics and tips. Do you have a particularly useful tip or a clever tactical maneuver you use a lot? Leave a comment and let us know what it is.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Five interesting combat tactics

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Five interesting combat tactics originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MassivelyEVE Evolved: Research: Five top tips, page 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueprintccpccp-gameseveeve-evolvedeve-onlinefeaturedguideindustryinventionproductionprofitresearchreverse-engineeringtech-1tech-2tech-3tipstips-and-tricksSun, 03 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Research: Five top tips]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/03/eve-evolved-research-five-top-tips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/03/eve-evolved-research-five-top-tips/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/03/eve-evolved-research-five-top-tips/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

In the past three weeks, I've covered the ins and outs of research in EVE Online, from Tech 1 blueprints and the Tech 2 invention system to Tech 3 and reverse engineering. In my nearly six years of playing EVE, I've delved into every traditional profession and picked up some valuable tips and insights on each one. Having been involved in every aspect of the Tech 1, 2 and 3 industries, I've built up a fairly complete picture of how the research portion of any industry interacts with its production lines. In this final part to the EVE Evolved guide to research, I give five top tips that I consider invaluable for anyone getting into research and industry.

#5 - Chasing profit:
To keep your profit margins high in any business, you'll need to adjust your choice of products frequently to keep up with what's recently profitable. The most important tool you'll ever have in any industry is a spreadsheet or application to calculate build costs for you. By updating the prices on your spreadsheet regularly, you can quickly spot which items are profitable to build and stay ahead of the curve. This is important because in some areas, like the market for Tech 2 modules, it can take as little as a week for an item to go from high profit to making a loss. In EVE's highly competitive markets, it's the most agile players able to stay on top of market trends who make the most ISK. There are several freely available applications and websites that can help with practically every industry but I've always found it useful to make my own spreadsheets.

Skip past the cut for four other invaluable tips on reverse engineering chances, invention profit margins, predicting trends and more.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Research: Five top tips

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Research: Five top tips originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 03 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MassivelyEVE Evolved: Research: Reverse Engineering and Tech 3, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueprintccpccp-gamesengineeringeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineguidelegionlokiprofitproteusreresearchreversereverse-engineeringskillssleepersstrategic-cruiserssubsystemtech-1tech-2tech-3tengutipstips-and-trickswormhole-explorationwormholesSun, 27 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Research: Reverse Engineering and Tech 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/27/eve-evolved-research-reverse-engineering-and-tech-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/27/eve-evolved-research-reverse-engineering-and-tech-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/27/eve-evolved-research-reverse-engineering-and-tech-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

In the first two parts of this guide to Research in EVE Online, I covered the basics of Tech 1 blueprint research and the "Invention" system that allows players to make their own Tech 2 blueprint copies. The reverse engineering process used to make Tech 3 blueprints is a lot like invention except with a new set of materials, equipment and skills. Though the process used to create it will be familiar to inventors, the end product is a strange beast. Unlike Tech 2, Tech 3 isn't just a straight improvement over lower tech levels and doesn't use Tech 1 or 2 as a base. Instead, it's an entirely new technology used to make custom, modular ships. At the moment, the only Tech 3 products we have are the modular "Strategic Cruiser" class but more is planned for future patches. Tech 3 frigates are rumoured to be next on the development table and it's entirely possible that we'll see strange new Tech 3 modules thrown into the mix too at some point.

In today's part of this bumper guide to research, I look into EVE's newest addition to the researcher's repertoire as I examine Tech 3 and "Reverse Engineering". I'll look at how it all fits together to make a finished product, what's required to get involved and best practices for staying profitable in what has become a very competitive marketplace.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Research: Reverse Engineering and Tech 3

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Research: Reverse Engineering and Tech 3 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MassivelyEVE Evolved: Trading: Tips and tricks, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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So far in this guide to trading in EVE Online, I've covered the jobs best suited to new players and some of the more advanced trading techniques like margin trading, market speculation and price manipulation. This is by no means the entirety of what can happen in EVE's marketplaces, but serves as a good foundation for those trying to break into the trading game. In the hyper-capitalistic world of New Eden, the markets are hugely competitive and any edge you can get will help. With that in mind, this final part of the guide will cover a few of the tips and tricks I've learned over the years that have given me an edge in the marketplace. Some are common sense rules that most traders will learn eventually and will be invaluable to newer players. Others are more closely-guarded secrets that I've gleaned from years of gameplay.

What is a cyclic product and what do you do when you spot a price manipulation? In this final part of the trading guide, I dish out some of my personal top tips for budding marketeers.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Trading: Tips and tricks

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Trading: Tips and tricks originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buyingccpccp-gameschribbaeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionfeaturedguideisklotterymanipulationmarginmarketnyphuropinionpatchprofessionsprofitpvepvpsellingspeculationtipstips-and-trickstradetradingSun, 29 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Trading: Advanced trading, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/eve-evolved-trading-advanced-trading-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/eve-evolved-trading-advanced-trading-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/22/eve-evolved-trading-advanced-trading-part-2/#commentsContinue reading EVE Evolved: Trading: Advanced trading, part 2

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Trading: Advanced trading, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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