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[Mythos Global wants you to play your way]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/mythos-global-wants-you-to-play-your-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/mythos-global-wants-you-to-play-your-way/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/mythos-global-wants-you-to-play-your-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Mythos
Mythos Global has been on one crazy rollercoaster ride throughout its lifespan, and the latest incarnation of the free-to-play Diablo-esque dungeon-crawler has been in open beta for a little over a month now. But T3Fun wants players to know that there's more to Mythos than just dungeon-delving, and the studio has released a trio of new videos to prove it.

Whether you're a loot fiend, an achievement chaser, or a master crafter, Mythos has something for you. As with most Diablo-alikes, Mythos features a plethora of randomized loot for players to hoard like there's no tomorrow, while the artisans among us can become masters of their trades with the help of the game's unique crafting skill tree system. And of course, achievements and titles abound for those who just love showing off their heroic accomplishments. If any of these playstyles tickles your fancy, just head on over to the game's official site to get in on the action for yourself.

[Source: T3Fun press release]

Continue reading Mythos Global wants you to play your way

MassivelyMythos Global wants you to play your way originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementscraftingf2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterhanbitsoftlootmythosmythos-globalplaystylesredbanat3funtitlestrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 26 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Age of Camelot producer's letter looks toward the future]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-age-of-camelot-producers-letter-looks-toward-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-age-of-camelot-producers-letter-looks-toward-the-future/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-age-of-camelot-producers-letter-looks-toward-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Screenshot -- Dark Age of Camelot
Dark Age of Camelot's Valentine's Day event is still in full swing, but the devs over at Mythic Entertainment have plenty more in store for players. Stuart Zissu, DAoC's producer, stopped by the official site to give players a heads-up as to what they can expect in upcoming updates. For starters, the next phase of the ongoing live event will be coming sometime "in the next few months," and players are warned that the Pict encampments they've already encountered are only the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

On top of that, the devs will be adding a number of new titles throughout the year that center on the long-running title's 10th anniversary. Zissu adds that "there will also be new titles for the next phase of the live event" as well as a special trophy commemorating Dark Age of Camelot's 10 years of RvRvR action. For more information, including details on DAoC's first video contest, just click on through the link below and give the post a look.

MassivelyDark Age of Camelot producer's letter looks toward the future originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camelotdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsletter-from-the-producerlive-eventlive-eventsmythicmythic-entertainmentproducers-letterrealm-vs-realmrvrrvrvrstuart-zissutitletitlestrophiestrophyWed, 15 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: High achievers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/flameseeker-chronicles-high-achievers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/flameseeker-chronicles-high-achievers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/flameseeker-chronicles-high-achievers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Charr SMASH
Well, ArenaNet certainly didn't let 2011 go out on a quiet note. The team had a few last tricks up its sleeve before closing down shop until the new year. We chatted with Eric Flannum about the Guild Wars 2 Mesmer, and the newest ArenaNet blog post contained some exciting talk of combat, achievements, and some tweaking to the Thief class.

I loved hearing about the updates to the Thief and to combat because the fact that the developers are talking about fine-tuning says good things to me about the development process. However, it was the talk of achievements that really caught my attention because it's such a sweeping, game-wide system. Follow along after the jump and let's take a closer look!

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: High achievers

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: High achievers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievement-pointsachievementsanetarenanetarenanet-blogeric-flannumfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2hall-of-monumentsncsofttitlesMon, 26 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flameseeker Chronicles: The clock is ticking]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/flameseeker-chronicles-the-clock-is-ticking/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/flameseeker-chronicles-the-clock-is-ticking/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/flameseeker-chronicles-the-clock-is-ticking/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

GW Pre-Searing
Disclaimer: Today's Flameseeker Chronicles is more along the "observation and thinking aloud" line than the "guide or news" line, so your input is very welcome at the end.

It's been well over a year since the Hall of Monuments was unveiled for Guild Wars 2, bringing with it a large and ongoing influx of new players. These are players who either tried Guild Wars 1 and it didn't stick for them, or players who never tried it in the first place but are here now to prepare for Guild Wars 2.

New players are great -- a bigger community is often a win for everyone involved. But this new playerbase isn't exactly what we've been used to. Follow along after the jump and let's take a look.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: The clock is ticking

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: The clock is ticking originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesgrindguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2hall-of-monumentshomncsofttitle-grindtitlesMon, 26 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Recruit-a-Friend program comes to EverQuest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/02/recruit-a-friend-program-comes-to-everquest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Sony Online Entertainment's Recruit-a-Friend program (otherwise known as the powerlevel-your-alts-with-multiple-accounts program) has been a hit in EverQuest II for quite some time now. It's only natural that the initiative make its way to the original incarnation of Norrath, and SOE's Piestro has posted a notice on the official EverQuest boards marking just such an occasion.

Recruits and recruiters will enjoy a wealth of benefits including in-game mounts, bonus Station Cash, Legends of Norrath booster packs, a unique title, and of course, loads of bonus XP. Check out all the details on the o-boards, then hit up the official RaF page to get started.

MassivelyRecruit-a-Friend program comes to EverQuest originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-xpeqeverquestfantasyin-game-itemsmmo-industrymountsnorrathpiestropromotionsrafrecruit-a-friendsoeSony-Online-Entertainmenttitlesxpxp-bonusSat, 02 Jul 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elsword Online unlocks the doors to two new dungeons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/elsword-online-unlocks-the-doors-to-two-new-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/elsword-online-unlocks-the-doors-to-two-new-dungeons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/22/elsword-online-unlocks-the-doors-to-two-new-dungeons/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The comic book action-fest Elsword Online got a little bigger today, as Kill3rCombo expanded the newly launched title with additional dungeons, enemies and quests.

The dungeons -- Nasod Foundry and Altera Core -- will offer tougher challenges to the three main characters, while 24 new quests should help to keep the playerbase busy. Since dungeons are run repeatedly, two new locales will be welcome across the board.

When they're not beating up the bad guys, the principal characters can now learn a third cash skill and earn one of two new titles: Hero of Ponggo and Hero of Sonic. No, not the hedgehog or fast-food chain (we checked).

You can get a peek at Nasod Foundry and Altera Core in the gallery below, and don't forget to check out our first impressions of Elsword Online from last month!

Gallery: Elsword Online

MassivelyElsword Online unlocks the doors to two new dungeons originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altera-corecash-skilldungeondungeonselswordelsword-onlineenemieshero-of-ponggohero-of-sonickill3r-combokill3rcombomobsnasod-foundrypatchqueststitlesupdateWed, 22 Jun 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What do you collect in-game?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-collect-in-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-collect-in-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/the-daily-grind-what-do-you-collect-in-game/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Recently I was lamenting to my wife that I don't really have a good collection of anything. I think that really interesting people usually have some oddball collection that they work on over the years. For example, my friend Howard is a Pez fanatic, who has not only thousands of Pez dispensers but Pez t-shirts, belt buckles and a huge Pez tattoo down his arm. Howard knows the joy of a good collection.

But then I realized that perhaps my urge to collect is being sated in MMOs. I usually always love to collect non-combat pets (if the game I'm playing has them), or goofy titles, or awesome outfits. There's something deeply satisfying about sitting on a well-stocked treasure-trove after a long period of working on it.

So do you collect anything in MMOs? Do you store away statistically useless yet cosmetically perfect weapons just to have them? Is there a huge menagerie of animals parked in your garage, ready to transport you in style? If an MMO has a collection system, do you take full advantage of 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: What do you collect in-game? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 May 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectioncollectionsmountsnon-combat-petsopinionoutfitoutfitspezpez-dispensersrubi-waz-heretdgthe-daily-grindtitletitlesvanity-petsSun, 08 May 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 developers offer new information on PvP, servers, titles, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/guild-wars-2-developers-offer-new-information-on-pvp-servers-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/guild-wars-2-developers-offer-new-information-on-pvp-servers-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/guild-wars-2-developers-offer-new-information-on-pvp-servers-t/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The class and race information for Guild Wars 2 might be coming fast and furious, but general gameplay details have been scarce lately.

That all changed today, thanks to an interview with Guild Wars 2 fansite Variance. The Variance team sat down to chat with Eric Flannum, John Corpening, Egan Hirvela, and Matt Witter for plenty of new tidbits on the game, including the new details that fans have been hoping for.

Perhaps some of the most exciting information was regarding PvP play. Information on this side of the game has been very limited, but we learned several new things today. There will be four World vs. World maps at launch, each player will begin in his or her own home map, and there are numerous strategic objectives within PvP play. Hardcore fans will enjoy the in-depth analysis of the new PvP information, courtesy of Kill Ten Rats.

The team wasn't finished there, though. Fans have also been very curious about other details such as server setup, titles carried over from Guild Wars 1, and vanity items like miniatures. The team had things to say about all of that, so head over to Variance to see the full interview for yourself!

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 developers offer new information on PvP, servers, titles, and more originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 May 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetegan-hirvelaeric-flannumguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2john-corpeningmatt-witterminiaturesncsoftPvPserverstitleswvwWed, 04 May 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Angels Online's Primordial Paradise expansion brings new maps, achievements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/angels-onlines-primordial-paradise-expansion-brings-new-maps-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/angels-onlines-primordial-paradise-expansion-brings-new-maps-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/angels-onlines-primordial-paradise-expansion-brings-new-maps-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

There's a new expansion for Angels Online, and IGG's latest press release details a bit of what players can expect. The Primordial Paradise awaits, and intrepid explorers will "make their way through native villages, thick jungles and ancient ruins to battle scores of new, frightening monsters."

The region boasts a slew of new quests, many of them revolving around the "unimaginable evil" that lurks in the deep, dark recesses of the area. Seven new maps are also ripe for plundering, and Primordial Paradise offers new achievement and title systems as well as various itemization updates to assist players in tweaking their characters.

To celebrate the expansion, which is now live, Angels Online is hosting a seven-day double XP event. Head to the game's official forums for more details.

MassivelyAngels Online's Primordial Paradise expansion brings new maps, achievements originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievement-systemachievementsangelsangels-onlineangels-online-primordial-paradiseexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playnew-questspatchespress-releaseprimordial-paradisetitle-systemtitlesWed, 27 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Embark Beach and Mercenary Heroes coming to Guild Wars]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/embark-beach-and-mercenary-heroes-coming-to-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/embark-beach-and-mercenary-heroes-coming-to-guild-wars/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/embark-beach-and-mercenary-heroes-coming-to-guild-wars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Do you play Guild Wars with nothing to lose and nothing to prove? Then you might wind up dancing with yourself in the newest update to the game, which will add a new system of Mercenary Heroes -- turning other characters on your account into special heroes just for your use. And since this update also gives players the option to have a full party of seven heroes, there's plenty of reason to improve alts and play with them even on other characters.

Of course, that's the least of the features packed into the new update, and you may not even need the new heroes with the introduction of the group-focused Embark Beach. Allowing players transport to a multitude of locations and missions, the outpost serves as a waypoint for players to find groups and get right into the action of a mission without any trouble. It's also a hub for services, making it an ideal place for players to congregate and look for any needed assistance.

That's not even touching upon the new daily quests in Pre-Searing Ascalon, the changes to the Survivor title track to make it earnable on an existing character even after that character has died, and a new Minion UI feature. In short, Guild Wars players have plenty to dance about in the new update, whether by themselves or with others.

Gallery: Guild Wars Core Gallery

MassivelyEmbark Beach and Mercenary Heroes coming to Guild Wars originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetawardsbreakingembark-beachf2pfree-to-playgallerygroup-contentgroupingguild-warsguild-wars-propheciesgwheroesmercenary-heroesncsoftnewspartiesparty-formationpatchesplayer-culturepropheciesscreenshotscreenshotssubscription-freetitle-trackstitlesupcoming-patchesupdatesThu, 03 Mar 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Fishing frenzy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/the-road-to-mordor-fishing-frenzy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/the-road-to-mordor-fishing-frenzy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/18/the-road-to-mordor-fishing-frenzy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Way back in the olden times of yore, henceforth referred to as "2008," Lord of the Rings Online released its first -- and to date, only -- hobby in the game: fishing. While we wait for a second hobby to make its way into the game (the popular rumor is golf), I thought it'd be interesting to take a look at this interesting side activity in LotRO.

I'll admit that fishing bores me, both in real life and in virtual games. In both, it's a lot of waiting, a ton of non-interaction, and the occasional flashes of activity. The end result is edible and odd but nevertheless compelling to some folks. MMOs have a long history of incorporating fishing as a minigame or side activity, usually given to players as something to do when they're waiting on something else. I've noticed that roleplayers are big fans of the rod-and-reel, probably because it's defiantly against the grain. In a world of power-levelers, danger-seekers, and quest-undergoers, taking large chunks of time to stand in one spot and watch for a couple of pixels to bob shows that you walk a path less traveled.

I get the impression that there are many people in the game who don't even know that fishing exists or perhaps who dabbled once and never gave it another thought. Even if fishing isn't typically your bag, Turbine's dangled a few tempting rewards from the hooks of fishermen's labors -- enough that it prompted me to take a closer look this week.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Fishing frenzy

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Fishing frenzy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anglerangmarbalrogcompleat-anglerdeeddeedsfeaturedfishermenfishingforochelgolfguidehobbyhobby-masterlord-of-the-rings-onlinelossothlotromirkwoodmoriareputationsalmontitletitlesturbineFri, 18 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord reveals 2011 update plans]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/archlord-reveals-2011-update-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/archlord-reveals-2011-update-plans/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/17/archlord-reveals-2011-update-plans/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 is shaping up to be a busy year for Archlord, the free-to-play PvP-centric MMO from Webzen. In a press release earlier today, the company announced plans for various updates over the course of the year including a level cap increase, new battlefields, and tweaks to the game's racial balancing.

A new title system is also on the way, as well as a new map for high-level characters (both in the first half of the year). For the second half, Webzen is aiming for new boss monsters and a new Battle Square called the 3rd Challenge where players are pitted against one another with a chance to obtain rare items.

Archlord launched in 2006 in Europe and North America and features a unique crafting system as well as the ability for players to become the Archlord, a singular (and incredibly powerful) ruler who reigns over the server in four-week intervals. Learn more at the official site and check out our new gallery below.

Gallery: Archlord 2011 updates

MassivelyArchlord reveals 2011 update plans originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3rd-challengearchlordbattle-squarebattle-square-third-challengebattlefieldsf2pfree-to-playlevel-cap-increasenew-contenttitle-systemtitleswebzenMon, 17 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: Snowflake Festival]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/lost-pages-of-taborea-snowflake-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/lost-pages-of-taborea-snowflake-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/20/lost-pages-of-taborea-snowflake-festival/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jingle brother's time is here. Time for slaying. Time for cheer. Presents abound every Christmas in the Snowflake Festival, and I've been hoarding them like a squirrel. This is one of my favorite holidays, probably my favorite one in Runes of Magic. Not only are there lots of treats to get, but the quests are fun. I reminisced last week about the events held in RoM year-round, but I wanted to run through some of the things I've been doing in this year's festival.

Despite some recent patching trouble, the holiday is up and running. There are new mounts, furniture, Christmas graphics and prizes galore to enjoy this year. If you've never played RoM during the Snowflake Festival -- or never took part in the quests -- this will serve as a fun guide and idea engine for what's in store for you. Get your space bar primed and ready for lots of jumping and read on past the break.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Snowflake Festival

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Snowflake Festival originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charity-mountcharity-wolf-steedchristmaseventsfeaturedfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-ineractiveholidayholiday-furniturehousingjeremy-strattonjingle-brotherslost-pages-of-taboreamoas-charity-steedmountsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsantasanta-claussled-fragmentssnowflake-festivaltitleswinter-holidaywinter-holiday-2010winter-holiday-eventMon, 20 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: Guide to Pumpkin Festival]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/lost-pages-of-taborea-guide-to-pumpkin-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/lost-pages-of-taborea-guide-to-pumpkin-festival/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/lost-pages-of-taborea-guide-to-pumpkin-festival/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Runes of Magic has been around long enough now that holiday events are making a second round. In the wake of the Juice Festival's first appearance, the Pumpkin Festival is one of the events getting a second go.

Legend tells us that before humans rediscovered the continent of Candara, the land of Kolydia was ruled by tyranny. On a cold winter's night, unknown assassins wearing masks succeeded in eliminating the unsavory rulers and the hoi polloi rejoiced. The people started celebrating that day by wearing masks which became rumored to bring good luck.

Unknown years and another continent later, humans made do the best they could on the underdeveloped land. The tale is said that a farmer carved out a pumpkin and put a candle in it. After seeing this, the Eye of Wisdom thought it would be a great idea to mark the day for rest and celebration before Winter. The mask wearing was added to this, kids added costumes and trick-or-treating, thus the Pumpkin Festival was born.

I don't have a photographic memory nor did I painstakingly write down all event-minutea from last year, but this year's festivities look to offer more activities. On top of that, there are plenty of costumes, holiday furniture and even holiday mounts to obtain or buy. The only problem is the absence of any source to help you traverse the ins and outs of what you can do and what you can win. Until now. Click past the break for help making your way through this year's Pumpkin Festival.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Guide to Pumpkin Festival

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Guide to Pumpkin Festival originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costumeseventsfeaturedfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivehalloweenholidayholiday-eventsholidaysmasksmountspumpkinpumpkin-festivalromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttitlestrick-or-treatMon, 25 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to 50: A guide to filling your Guild Wars Hall of Monuments (III)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/the-road-to-50-a-guide-to-filling-your-guild-wars-hall-of-monum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/the-road-to-50-a-guide-to-filling-your-guild-wars-hall-of-monum/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/the-road-to-50-a-guide-to-filling-your-guild-wars-hall-of-monum/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Today's Road to 50 is all about the Monument to Honor. The biggest of them all, the one with the cool statue behind it, and the one that you need 15 points rather than eight to max. You've got more freedom here, though: there are a total of 53 available titles and you need 40 for maximum points.

This gives you some flexibility to pick and choose according to your playstyle, but it can still seem pretty overwhelming. There are some pretty efficient ways to do this, and once you start you'll be surprised at how quickly the bars start filling. Follow along after the jump and let's take a look.

Continue reading The Road to 50: A guide to filling your Guild Wars Hall of Monuments (III)

MassivelyThe Road to 50: A guide to filling your Guild Wars Hall of Monuments (III) originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenaneteotneye-of-the-northfactionsfeaturedguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2hall-of-monumentshall-of-monuments-calculatorHoMhonormonument-to-honorncsoftnightfallpropheciespvepvpskillsthe-road-to-50titlesvanquishingWed, 13 Oct 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Entitled]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/the-road-to-mordor-entitled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/the-road-to-mordor-entitled/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/the-road-to-mordor-entitled/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A few days ago I asked the Massively community members what in-game titles they loved the most. Titles have been on my brain for the past week, as I've started to realize just how many -- how bogglingly, terrifyingly many -- exist in Lord of the Rings Online. I hadn't really given them a lot of thought before, because who really stops to read every small paragraph that magically floats above people's heads? "Frodo, Ring-bearer of the One Ring of Power, Fellowship of the Ring, Formerly of Bag End, The Shire." Yeah, we get it. You're Mr. Fancy Pants.

But really, titles are kind of neat, if only for the player who puts one on like a fine three-piece suit before an evening on the town. A title tells the world not only of your great (or not-so-great) accomplishments, but also a little about your personality -- after all, you chose that particular title to wear above all the others. A title can tell me if a player is really proud of his crafting achievements, or if he's a raider, or if he has a decent sense of humor.

While I'd say that -- like LotRO's hats -- a good bulk of the titles in the game are cosmetically useless, there exists quite a few that are worth procuring if you're into titular collection. Today we're going to look at some of my favorite titles in the game, as well as how to nab them. Please don't pee your pants in excitement.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Entitled

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Entitled originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazelingblind-leapercarnivorecodemastersenedwaithf2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumfrodogloomglenslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-hatslucky-duckminstrelmoriaparachuting-bearspeeing-your-pants-is-coolrewardssauronslug-squasherspring-festivalsummer-festivalthe-peculiarthe-undyingtitletitlesturbineTurbine-EntertainmenttutorvegetarianFri, 01 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your favorite title?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-title/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-title/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/23/the-daily-grind-whats-your-favorite-title/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In real life, many of us lack a distinguished title. Oh sure, sometimes we get called "Sport" when someone forgets our name, or "Stupid Lady!" when we drive over a dog, but the "Reverends" and "Doctors" and "Honorables" and "Flag Admirals" tend to escape our grasp. What do you have to do to get one of these? Pay a hundred bucks at the DMV?

Happily, MMOs are more than willing to dispense titles -- AKA "Name Bling" -- to any and all who show up and perhaps slaughter a town's worth of critters. Warhammer Online, Star Trek Online, Lord of the Rings Online and many of the new MMOs boast a title system. And why not? After all, it's one of the easiest reward systems to throw into the game from the devs' side, and players just go nuts over them.

So what title is your absolute favorite, and what did you have to do to earn it? I was always partial to WAR's "AHHHHHHH" title, which was earned by falling to your death 25 times. Because if you're that accident-prone, you might as well get compensated for it. What about you?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your favorite title? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ahhhhhhhdoctorflag-admiralhonorablelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionreverendrewardsportstar-trek-onlinestotdgthe-daily-grindtitletitleswarwarhammer-onlineThu, 23 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Pages of Taborea: Low-level PvP alt]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/lost-pages-of-taborea-low-level-pvp-alt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/lost-pages-of-taborea-low-level-pvp-alt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/lost-pages-of-taborea-low-level-pvp-alt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I've been spending some time making a home for myself on Artemis. Yes, I've moved away from the PvP server, and I haven't regretted it. I've never really participated in open PvP, so it's not really a surprise. I've said before that I only started on a PvP server to have that extra option available to me and to have an added dose of excitement. Well, your unofficial ambassador to Taborea may be changing his tune.

After I made the switch to PvE, I wasn't sure what to do. I already had a high-level character. I didn't feel ready to put my main to rest. It's been my dedicated character for over a year, and it does give me the advantage of accessing high-level content. With the limited time I have for Runes of Magic right now, let alone other MMOs, I was tentative about making an alt. I took the plunge, made an alt, and haven't looked back. Oddly enough -- or maybe not -- I'm enjoying PvP more on a PvE server.

I've found that I like alt life, and it has me thinking creatively about what to do with each character. I've spoken about PvP culture; I've mentioned my idea for improving battlefields; and last week I spoke about siege badges that can help you in battlefields. This week, I want to cover building a low-level PvP alt. There's a lot to be done in prepping a low-level PvP alt, so let's get busy.

Continue reading Lost Pages of Taborea: Low-level PvP alt

MassivelyLost Pages of Taborea: Low-level PvP alt originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altsarenabattlefieldbattlegroundsfeaturedfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactiveguild-siegelost-pages-of-taborealow-levelmonster-cardspetsplayer-vs-playerpvpromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttitlestwinkMon, 13 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gear up for EverQuest II'sTinkerfest 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/gear-up-for-everquest-iistinkerfest-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/gear-up-for-everquest-iistinkerfest-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/gear-up-for-everquest-iistinkerfest-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you've been itching to brand your EverQuest II avatar with a catchy new title like "the Explosive" or "the Deliverator," hold on to your cogs and mark your calendar for July 23rd. The second annual Tinkerfest looks to provide your inner gnome with a bevy of time-limited quests, vendor offerings, and crafted goodies designed to spruce up your home and wardrobe.

To get started, make sure you've learned the gnomish language and make your way to Gnomeland Security in the Steamfont Mountains. There you'll find repeatable quests as well as a vendor who trades Tinkerfest cog shinies (available nearby on a fast respawn timer) for various loot items. Head over to EQ2 Traders Corner for a lengthy posting that details all of the available rewards along with a selection of images.

Tinkerfest 2010 runs through August 6th, and the quests, items, and recipes will not be available after the event conclusion.

MassivelyGear up for EverQuest II'sTinkerfest 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingEQ2EQIIeventeventsEverQuest-2everquest-iignomegnomeland-securityin-game-eventlive-eventQuestssoesonySony-Online-Entertainmenttinkerfesttitlestraders-cornerTue, 20 Jul 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: When are in-game titles too much?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/the-daily-grind-when-are-in-game-titles-too-much/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/the-daily-grind-when-are-in-game-titles-too-much/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/the-daily-grind-when-are-in-game-titles-too-much/#commentsFiled under: ,

Take, for instance, the guy up there from LotRO. He looks as though he's an accomplished fellow, with many miles under his belt. He probably wants something to show for it, too. Could you blame him for wanting to extend his name somewhat, particularly if the MMO promotes such embellishments, even if his name becomes a full paragraph of reading?

As many modern MMOs use titles as a reward for character achievements -- particularly since they're relatively easy to implement -- we're long since used to seeing folks collect and display their greatest reference. Yet do MMO titles become too much after a while? Do you occasionally fear for your life when you see a literal wall of text running right for you on the battlefield? At what point do you draw the line in the sand, look the developers in the eye, and pronounce that this is all just getting silly?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: When are in-game titles too much? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrotdgthe-daily-grindtitleswall-of-textFri, 02 Apr 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: 10 reasons why LotRO is worth picking up over shiny new MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/the-road-to-mordor-10-reasons-why-lotro-is-worth-picking-up-ove/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/the-road-to-mordor-10-reasons-why-lotro-is-worth-picking-up-ove/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/the-road-to-mordor-10-reasons-why-lotro-is-worth-picking-up-ove/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Every Friday, The Road to Mordor brings you the latest in Lord of the Rings Online news, guides and analysis.

Hey dol merry dol, Lord of the Rings Online fans! My name is Justin Olivetti, and I have the pleasure of joining you on this winding, epic road to Mordor. I play a Captain on the Gladden server, and some of my favorite activities in LotRO include wandering accidentally into signature mob camps, exterminating the local fauna in the name of Deeds, and trying to cobble together the perfect pirate costume for show.

So I know that LotRO is one of the best MMORPGs out there, and you know that as well, but with all the newer MMOs bursting out of the gate on what seems like a weekly basis, how can you convince your friends, loved ones and everyone in your social network that a three-year-old title is worth giving a try if they missed it the first time around?

Never fear -- I am on your side, and ready to equip you with ten terrific reasons why the lovechild of Turbine and Tolkien deserve an even greater number of folks exploring the lands of Middle-earth. So hit the jump and let's spread the word!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: 10 reasons why LotRO is worth picking up over shiny new MMOs

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: 10 reasons why LotRO is worth picking up over shiny new MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cookingfeaturedfishinghobbyhousinglorelotromiddle-earthmonster playMonsterPlayrole-playingrpskirmishtitlestolkienFri, 05 Mar 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mark Jacobs on changes to WAR's open RvR]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/mark-jacobs-on-changes-to-wars-open-rvr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/mark-jacobs-on-changes-to-wars-open-rvr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/mark-jacobs-on-changes-to-wars-open-rvr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Mythic Entertainment's Mark Jacobs posted a Warhammer Online dev blog today, titled "Open RvR Update" which maps out the future of open realm-vs-realm in the game. Jacobs writes that the coming months will bring some changes and additions to WAR:
  • An RvR Influence system. "This system is designed to reward our oRvR players with lots of new stuff that you can only get through oRvR," he says.
  • Increased visibility of open RvR, made possible through numerous improvements such as improved maps and travel systems, second bind points, a campaign HUD, and tier-wide messaging about the status of battlefield objectives and keeps.
  • Greater incentives for oRvR participation, namely through keep quests, 'Daily Event Quests,' and chained RvR missions.
  • Better rewards for guilds that take and control keeps, and a system of keep upgrades.
  • Allowing characters to gain oRvR "Fame", linked to the Tome of Knowledge and thus rewards, titles, and experience that come with oRvR success.
Jacobs cautions though, "Please keep in mind that these changes/systems apply to oRvR only and not to scenarios. This is not all we are working on but these do reflect the majority of oRvR additions that we are currently working on/planning for the next few months." Jacobs hopes that open RvR enhancements will inject more risk and challenge into this aspect of the game, and ultimately more rewards. Check out his dev blog where he outlines the changes to open RvR and let us know, do you think Mythic is headed in the right direction with this system revamp?
Warhammer Online Coverage Did you enjoy this? Make sure to check out our Warhammer guides: Massively's Character Creation Guide and our WoW Player's Guide to Warhammer. Plus, don't miss any of our ongoing coverage as Massively goes to WAR!

MassivelyMark Jacobs on changes to WAR's open RvR originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsbreakingdev-blogexperiencefamefantasygame-mechanicsguildsmark-jacobsmmo-industrymythicmythic-entertainmentopen-rvrpvpquestsrealm-vs-realmrewardriskrvrtitlestome-of-knowledgewarwarhammer-onlineTue, 25 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars update revamps achievement titles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/guild-wars-update-revamps-achievement-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/guild-wars-update-revamps-achievement-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/guild-wars-update-revamps-achievement-titles/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Before there was the Lorebook in Lord of the Rings Online, there were titles in Guild Wars. Before there was the Tome of Knowledge in Warhammer Online, there were titles in Guild Wars. Before there were Achievements in World of Warcraft, there were titles in Guild Wars. This title system has been in place for a few years now, and has been steadily growing to incorporate achievement recognition for many of the game's favorite activities. In yesterday's game update though, the entire title system got a revamp.

One of the biggest problems many players saw with some of the more difficult titles is it felt like pure grind. To remedy that, ArenaNet has adjusted the difficulty of a few higher-end titles, and changed the way titles affected things like Favor of the Gods, Vanquishing bonuses, etc. Check out the complete patch notes at the developer wiki page for more information.

MassivelyGuild Wars update revamps achievement titles originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 14 Nov 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsarenanetcontent-updateguild-warsgwncsoftpatchpatch-notestitlesFri, 14 Nov 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Certificates and medals coming to EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/certificates-and-medals-coming-to-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/certificates-and-medals-coming-to-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/certificates-and-medals-coming-to-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Most players who've been drawn to EVE Online enjoy the game for its complexity. For such gamers, complexity in a title can be a strength, not a drawback. However, you know what they say about having too much a good thing... Newer players especially find aspects of the game daunting to learn, particularly in terms of skills and skill training plans. This complexity surrounding skills, while not a big deal to veteran players, can be hard to grasp for newer players. Enter "certificates" -- EVE's simplified and (visually) ranked groups of skills that should help rookie players better understand what they should focus on to achieve particular goals.

If the feature does what the developers hope, certificates will remedy a problem newer players face -- "an inability to clearly see where a particular skill fits into the greater scheme of things, what it enables, how to get there and where to go next," CCP Greyscale writes in his latest dev blog "Certificates: Planning the Future."

Continue reading Certificates and medals coming to EVE Online

MassivelyCertificates and medals coming to EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsccpccp-chronotisccp-gamesccp-greyscalecertificatecertificatescertification-plannerdevdev-blogdeveloperdevseveeve-onlineforumsmedalmedalsnew-featurespatchesprofessionsrookiessci-fiskill-trainingskillstitlesMon, 13 Oct 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LoN: Inquisitor launches today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/lon-inquisitor-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/lon-inquisitor-launches-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/07/lon-inquisitor-launches-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The third set in the Legends of Norrath digital trading card game, Inquisitor launches today. Since we wrote up our first look last month, we've discovered a few new things. Mostly our unhealthy obsession with loot cards.

You see, in every pack of cards you buy, there is a chance to get one card that can be redeemed for an item within EverQuest or EverQuest II. And I don't mean just a souvenir loincloth or a +2 Ring of Useless Stat. I mean shiny things like unique mounts, snazzy cloaks, new titles, new pets and new weapon graphics. Did we mention the shiny??

Loot cards that can be redeemed for EQ and loot cards that can be redeemed for EQ2 are profiled on the official LoN site. If you are looking to get your hands on your own shiny, a weekend LoN: Inquisitor tournament starts today.

Gallery: Legends of Norrath

Ghostly Warg MountGhostly Warg Mount ProfileGuktan Apprentice petNimbus of the Air QueenPainting: Vengeful Musicians

MassivelyLoN: Inquisitor launches today originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Mar 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloaksinquisitorlegends-of-norrathlonloot-cardsmountspetstitlestournamentFri, 07 Mar 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Non-combat titles vs combat titles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/the-daily-grind-non-combat-titles-vs-combat-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/the-daily-grind-non-combat-titles-vs-combat-titles/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/the-daily-grind-non-combat-titles-vs-combat-titles/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I admit it; I'm a title hunter. Way back when I started up City of Heroes, the idea of gathering as many badges as I could seemed like a lot of fun to me. It gave me a plethora of various titles and accolades to choose from at any given time. Later, when the TaxiBots entered the scene, I joined up with their cause. One of the things we had the most success with in regards to player-run events was the Badge tours, whereby people who either didn't know where the badges were, or just didn't feel like hunting them could get teleported from place to place via Recall Friend. We took the badge flavor text and spun outrageous stories based on it, then sent them along to the next person in the route. After approximately 2 minutes, the "fare" (player) would have gained 5-7 new badges, and had a lot of fun listening to us spin tales of bravery and occasionally depravity. Fast forward to WoW and LotRO, and I find myself chasing titles once again, but most of these require combat to gain. It is quite different from the early CoH badges with many available just for walking over a certain area, or finding an easter egg.

Is there a better way to do it? Perhaps. But this is what we'd like to ask you about today. Are you also a badge hunter, seeking the next new title? If so, do you prefer yours for combat and feats of prowess, would you rather have them for just finding some "historic" spot that advances the lore, or do you like the idea of a combination of both? Do you think the idea of a non-combat title is just silly? Or do you really just not care about the idea of titles at all?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Non-combat titles vs combat titles originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accoladesbadgesfeaturedincentivesnon-combat-accomplishmentsreward-systemsthe-daily-grindtitlestokensWed, 19 Dec 2007 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Under The Hood: The Ouroboros System]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/under-the-hood-the-ouroboros-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/under-the-hood-the-ouroboros-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/under-the-hood-the-ouroboros-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


In most MMOs, once you hit a certain level, quests from before you hit that level turn useless and defunct. This sort of mechanic keeps players from going back and experiencing old stories because they leveled too fast, and really detracts from the overall feel of a game. What if I wanted to go back and play old quests (World of Warcraft, I'm looking right at you) and get some reward for them? Well, thankfully, City of Heroes/Villains has just implemented the Ouroboros System to allow you to go back and play previous missions you couldn't. But how is this going to affect the industry?

Continue reading Under The Hood: The Ouroboros System

MassivelyUnder The Hood: The Ouroboros System originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 07 Dec 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ten Ton Hammer's series of Deed guides for The Lord of the Rings Online continues with a guide to the Deeds of Evendim. Their guides to the North Downs, Ered Luin, and Angmar were all great, and this one's just as helpful.

Titles you can earn in Evendim include Slayer of the Gauredain, Enemy of the Giants, Bane of the Kergrim, Keeper of Mysteries, and more. Of course you can get all sorts of helpful traits as well.

Evendim was added to LotRO's world in Book 9 and is home to Annuminas, the former capitol of Arnor (the western sister to Gondor). Now it's populated by all sorts of unpleasant northern terrors such as the Gauredain.

MassivelyTTH guides you through the Deeds of Evendim originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Dec 2007 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Craig Morrison, the director of Funcom's Anarchy Online, wrote up a letter to the game's player community describing what's to come in the 17.8 update.

17.8 will bring a new team-based instance encounter that continues the Dust Brigade storyline, a complete overhaul of PvP titles, and a separate "social" tab in the inventory system so players can equip items specifically for their appearances without completely replacing the stat bonuses of existing gear. Also, Funcom's focus is shifting back to the pre-Shadlowlands world in terms of new content development.

Morrison said information about upcoming holiday events and the graphics engine upgrades is forthcoming. The updated engine is still in alpha testing but should be ready "mid to late next year." Fans of the game can expect to see some footage of the changes "very shortly."

We don't think a graphics update is likely to incite a surge of new players for this industry dinosaur, but hey, if you're already an AO player, it's still exciting.

[Via WarCry]

MassivelyFuncom: cool stuff coming for AO in 17.8 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>17.717.8anarchy-onlineaocraig-morrisondust-brigadeequipmentgeargraphicsholidaysinstancesletterpvpsocialtitlesFri, 30 Nov 2007 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Doom the Angmarim using the new Angmar Deed guide]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/doom-the-angmarim-using-the-new-angmar-deed-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/doom-the-angmarim-using-the-new-angmar-deed-guide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/doom-the-angmarim-using-the-new-angmar-deed-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Angmar is not a pleasant place. It's the cornerstone of evil in Eriador, the region on which The Lord of the Rings Online presently focuses. It once was home to the throne of the Witch-king, the most powerful and important of Sauron's servants. Now it's inhabited by trolls, orcs, and hillmen who will not greet you warmly when you approach them.

Now ... go there and grind!

Ten Ton Hammer have published a guide to the Deeds you can complete in the region. Like their previous two Deed guides, their guide to the Deeds of Angmar is a great resource for players looking for Traits that give them an extra edge, or for cool titles like "Warlord of Angmar," "Doom of the Angmarim," or "Weird of the Worms." If you're brave enough to simply walk into Angmar, check the guide out. It could come in handy.

MassivelyDoom the Angmarim using the new Angmar Deed guide originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ten Ton Hammer is reporting today on the rumor that NCsoft is adding a new "City of" title to the IP of their newly acquired CoX franchise. Well of course they are, they've been listening in on my conversations. I literally had this discussion with a friend of mine just a couple of days ago. The way I see it, you have heroes and villains duking it out in the city, but the citizens go along their humdrum lives without personality or purpose. So I am thinking, why not a Sims in Paragon City?

The other idea I had as I was slicing up Rikti the other day was playing as the alien invading race. Sure they're trying to destroy mankind, but that's what makes good entertainment, no? I really think I have something here. With the civilians concept you could bring in a whole crowd of MMO lovers that want get a chance to build a virtual life within Paragon, and with the aliens you could start out on an invading vessel and port in to do damage and cause chaos. You heard it here first people. I so should be working for these guys.

MassivelyCity of Civilians and City of Aliens? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Nov 2007 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>City-of-AliensCity-of-CiviliansCity-of-HeroesCity-of-VillainsCoHCoVCoXNCsofttitlesThu, 08 Nov 2007 15:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Under The Hood: Of Titles, Badges, and Achievements]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/04/under-the-hood-of-titles-badges-and-achievements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/04/under-the-hood-of-titles-badges-and-achievements/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/04/under-the-hood-of-titles-badges-and-achievements/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Say what you will about achievement points on the Xbox 360. They may cheapen the experience, or reduce elements of skill down to raw numbers, but anyone who has ever played a 360 knows how addictive the little "Achievement unlocked!" message is. So what happens when you toss that into an MMO? Titles.

It seems that a recent trend in MMOs is "titles". When they first debuted in the mainstream with City of Heroes, they didn't do much. All they did was add bragging rights for the person who has them, and a displayable title above the person's head. They were worthless (Well, mostly worthless). And most of the titles in CoX are still worthless.

"Oh, I killed 200 Circle of Thorn members. I've got that sweet new title."

Some MMOs are actually starting to change things up now, though, including the pioneers of the "Titles" system. Getting the exploration titles in City of Heroes/Villains will enable your Supergroup to teleport to that map from your Supergroup base. Getting certain titles in Guild Wars will allow you to increase your holding cap on faction. Getting all titles in an area in Tabula Rasa gets you a huge experience bonus (noticing a trend here? NCsoft developers seem to love the use of titles).

Continue reading Under The Hood: Of Titles, Badges, and Achievements

MassivelyUnder The Hood: Of Titles, Badges, and Achievements originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Nov 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>badgesblizzardcity-of-heroescity-of-villainsCoHCoVCoXdarkspacedeedsEQeverquestfeaturedguild-warsgwlord-of-the-rings-onlineLotROmechanicsncsofttabula-rasatitlesTRtraitsunder-the-hoodworld-of-warcraftwowxbox-360Sun, 04 Nov 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Do the Deed in Ered Luin]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/do-the-deed-in-ered-luin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/do-the-deed-in-ered-luin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/02/do-the-deed-in-ered-luin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The Deed system makes The Lord of the Rings Online stand out amidst the crowd. While a case can be made that Deeds are just another form of fancy new packaging for the same old tedious and passionless grind, we'll take what little freshness we can get in a genre that presently harbors a Fundamentalist fervor for proven formulas.

So, that said, if you dig doing Deeds in LotRO, then you'll appreciate TenTonHammer's Deed guides. A few days ago we plugged their first guide, which listed all the cool stuff you can accomplish in the North Downs, and now we're pointing you to their new one. This time they're covering the Ered Luin zone. Check it out if want to learn how to get a sweet title like "Defender of the Halls."

MassivelyDo the Deed in Ered Luin originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Nov 2007 13:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deedsered-luinered-luin-deedsered-luin-traitshow-tolord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroplayer-titlestitlestraitsFri, 02 Nov 2007 13:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Kill dirty trolls. Win shiny title. Profit.]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/kill-dirty-trolls-win-shiny-title-profit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/kill-dirty-trolls-win-shiny-title-profit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/kill-dirty-trolls-win-shiny-title-profit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I love the Deeds system in Lord of the Rings Online. It appeals to the completist in me. I will hunt down that last warg, goblin or ancient ruin until every last Deed moves to the Completed page of my book. That's why I love TenTon Hammer's Guide to Deeds of the North Downs.

In their guide, they include how many of each monster you need to kill, the location of all the areas you have to discover and the rewards you get for your efforts. Rewards include, of course, Traits, but they also include one of my favorite aspects of the games: Titles.

After you finish this round of Deeds, you can forever more be known as Hero of the North Downs, Foe of the Night or my favorite, Troll-hewer.

MassivelyKill dirty trolls. Win shiny title. Profit. originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 21:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deedshow-tolord-of-the-rings-onlinelotronorth-downsnorth-downs-deedsnorth-downs-traitsplayer-titlestitlestraitsMon, 29 Oct 2007 21:47:00 EST