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[Massively Exclusive: Star Trek Online announces EU relaunch, double XP weekend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/massively-exclusive-star-trek-online-announces-eu-relaunch-dou/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/massively-exclusive-star-trek-online-announces-eu-relaunch-dou/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/massively-exclusive-star-trek-online-announces-eu-relaunch-dou/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

STO
Star Trek may feature universal translators, but the crew at Cryptic has to make do with old fashioned techniques until the future catches up with us. As such, the studio has announced that it is relaunching Star Trek Online in Europe to support its French- and German-speaking players.

Starting right now, the game, website, forums, and game support will be available in all three languages. To further cater to European players, Cryptic has vowed to add more EU-friendly event timeslots.

Executive Producer Dan Stahl hopes this will spread STO across the world: "The launch of Star Trek Online in Europe is the culmination of our efforts over the past several years to bring gamers the Star Trek universe on a truly massive scale."

All players can benefit from this European relaunch, as Q's coming back to celebrate with a double-XP bonus weekend. Anyone who logs in from today through Monday, April 2nd, at 1:00 p.m. EDT, will not only benefit from the a skill point and bridge officer point boost but can claim a free IDIC Tribble of his or her very own. The Tribble provides a unique buff to your character based on his, her, or its class -- and if you manage to get all three buffs on you at once, you'll be granted an additional boost to damage, resistance, and health regen.

[Source: Cryptic press release]

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Star Trek Online announces EU relaunch, double XP weekend originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdouble-xpdouble-xp-weekendeueuropeeuropeaneuropean-relaunchf2pfree-to-playfrenchgermanidicidic-tribblein-game-eventlanguageslocalizationlocalizeperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweqrelaunchsci-fistar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotribbleThu, 29 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: To spec or not to spec?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/captains-log-to-spec-or-not-to-spec/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65340.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! Unlike an answer to Shakespeare's original question, the answer to the question in this week's title is probably a no-brainer for most of you: Yes! Choosing a specialization, or "speccing," in MMOs is something that stretches across most titles out there, and Star Trek Online is no different. Whether you wish to resist attacks longer, do more damage, or add strength to your powers, choosing a customized spec can be rewarding and a challenge at the same time. With so many variables and places to spend your points, the possibilities are endless.

While this week's Captain's Log is not here to tell you what you should spec into for your particular class or ship set-up, I would like to go over the space skill point overhaul that STO is about to go through. In the past, one of the biggest complaints from players was that they did not have a clear understanding of which skill tree affected which ability. The devs heard this feedback and have been working on a complete revamp to make these decisions simpler. Hopefully, this will allow you to have a better understanding of where and why to spend your points in a particular skill when you do have to re-spec at the launch of F2P on January 17th, 2012.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's get our readers' bookmark buttons ready...

Continue reading Captain's Log: To spec or not to spec?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: To spec or not to spec? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriescaptain-gekocaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosefficiencyenergy-weaponsengineering-systemsf2pfeaturedfree-to-playguidelivestreamoperation-systemsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentprojectile-weaponsre-specscience-systemsshakespeareskillpointsspecspeccingspecializationspecsst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotactical-systemstargeting-systemstrek-onlinetribbletwittertwitterverseweaponsThu, 10 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online dev blog talks test server rewards]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/star-trek-online-dev-blog-talks-test-server-rewards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/star-trek-online-dev-blog-talks-test-server-rewards/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/star-trek-online-dev-blog-talks-test-server-rewards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Star Trek Online - Scotty with tribbles
Star Trek Online's latest dev blog is live, and executive producer Stephen D'Angelo spends a bit of time talking about tribbles. Rest easy, they're not taking over the Cryptic offices, and D'Angelo spends this week's Path to F2P installment outlining the benefits of participating on the game's Tribble test server.

The dev team has increased the character transfer limit, and players may now copy up to three of their avatars from the main server. D'Angelo outlines the various rewards available for players willing to roll up their sleeves and get down and dirty with the bug squashing. The goodies range from tribble pets (naturally) to XP boosts and Dilithium chunks. Exclusive titles, starship slots, and duty officers are also available, so head over to the test shard and do your part!

MassivelyStar Trek Online dev blog talks test server rewards originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bug-squashingbugscharacter-copycrypticcryptic-studiosdev-blogdev-diaryf2pfree-to-playperfect-world-entertainmentpwerewardsscif-istar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertestingtribbletribblesFri, 04 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/captains-log-a-two-minute-read-could-save-you-15-or-more-on-n/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65340.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! Welcome to this week's edition of Captain's Log, brought to you by "Geko" Insurance. (And let's just say, you may want to purchase a policy). If you are a Star Trek Online player who watches Cryptic's official forums, you know that the game experienced an Occupy movement of its own this past weekend. Even if you don't frequent the forums, you may have seen some of the concerns raised through the #STO Twitter feed.

Over the weekend, players lashed out against some of the recent changes that have made their way to the Tribble test server. It may be surprising to some of you reading this, but the commotion was not related to the economy changes. The main concern is that some of the items for purchase in the C-Store are going to be changing from account-wide unlocks to per-character transactions. While I was a little perturbed at the thought too, I was happy to see that some of the misconceptions were cleared up once we got an official statement from one of the devs. But since there is a lot more to the story, let's take a look.

Ensign, warp 10! And don't forget to buckle your seatbelt...

Continue reading Captain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance

MassivelyCaptain's Log: A two-minute read could save you 15% or more on nerdrage insurance originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>al-riverabalanceboycottc-storec-store-pointscaptain-gekocaptains-logconsumablescraftingcrypticcryptic-pointscryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemExchangef2pfeaturedfeedbackforumsfree-to-playhereticlivestreammarketingpatch-notesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarshipsstotrek-onlinetribbletribble-test-servertwitterunlock-statusThu, 03 Nov 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: More on the economy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/captains-log-more-on-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/captains-log-more-on-the-economy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/captains-log-more-on-the-economy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65303.9...

Hello, computer (and players)! As I discussed last week, heated discussions surround Star Trek Online's change to a F2P hybrid model and planned game mechanics updates. While new updates are being pushed to the Tribble server for testing and feedback, many aspects are in a state of flux as such feedback is collected, evaluated, and implemented. The biggest area affected is the economy. While everyone has his own thoughts on the matter, Cryptic is leaving no feedback forum post unread -- the players will help shape these changes.

Last week, we saw the push of another patch that seems to have made some giant strides toward solving some of the biggest concerns, including significant reductions in prices for most items and the return of free ship tokens for most ranks. Stephen D'Angelo, acting Executive Producer and Emergency Executive Producer Hologram (EEPH), explained: "Based on how rapidly we're getting data and revising the game, we're still probably two more weeks away from having the economy in a state that is close to good enough." Since he said a lot more in his recent dev blog post, I thought I should take some time to expound on it.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's take a look at what else the EEPH had to say and break it down...

Continue reading Captain's Log: More on the economy

MassivelyCaptain's Log: More on the economy originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction-housec-storec-store-pointsconsumablescrypticcryptic-pointscryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscurrencycurrency-exchangedangelodev-blogdilithiumdoffduty-officerduty-officer-systemeephenergy-credit-systemenergy-creditsExchangef2pfeaturedfeedbackforumsfree-to-playhigh-end-gearlivestreamperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvpspecial-task-forcest-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarshipsstephen-dangelostfstotop-end-geartrek-onlinetribbletribble-test-serverThu, 20 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online opens character transfers to the test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/star-trek-online-opens-character-transfers-to-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/star-trek-online-opens-character-transfers-to-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/star-trek-online-opens-character-transfers-to-the-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You're going forward in time, not backward. But that's not the point.
When the testing process started for Star Trek Online's upcoming free-to-play version, players were limited to creating new characters rather than bringing over old favorites. The reasoning was simple: Because the game will be flinging the doors open to a flood of new players, that experience absolutely needs to be top-notch. But now that the testing has been ongoing for some time, the Tribble test server is open for players to bring a higher-ranked Federation or Klingon character across.

Naturally, there are some restrictions to the process, namely that players are limited in their overall number of characters transferred. Characters will also be updated to the newer game version, meaning several currency changes for Federation characters and a long list of changes for any Klingon characters. The newest entry in the Path to F2P blog series outlines the details, which should be pertinent to any players eager to see what their characters will play like when the business model shifts.

MassivelyStar Trek Online opens character transfers to the test server originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-transferscrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotesttest-servertrek-onlinetribbleupdatesTue, 18 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The voices of reason]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/captains-log-the-voices-of-reason/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/captains-log-the-voices-of-reason/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/captains-log-the-voices-of-reason/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot - Star Trek Online
Captain's Log, Stardate 65284.2...

Hello, computer (and players)! It is often said that the voices of the gaming community are some of the loudest, and most passionate, around. This is especially true within the Star Trek Online community. While some may see particular posts made in Cryptic's forums as trolling or whining, others see passion and dedication for making the game they love the best it can be. There is no denying that there will always be those who love to hate and hate to love, but there are also community members out there who are the voices of reason -- they take their time to carefully examine something and provide appropriate and well-thought feedback on how to make something better.

As STO is preparing to re-launch with its F2P model, many changes are being pushed to the Tribble test server for players to playtest and provide feedback on. Before the test shards ever open, debates based on the patch notes begin. After a few hours of testing on Tribble, players make their feedback posts public in hopes that developers notice and hear their opinions. The great news here is that the developers are reading each post and have vowed that feedback does not go unnoticed. Since I have been following this feedback closely myself, I thought I should share some of it here.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's share some recent community feedback on two of the hottest topics out there...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The voices of reason

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The voices of reason originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-storec-store-pointscommunitycrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopersF2Pfeaturedfeedbackfree-to-playgold-membersgrindholodeckperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesilver-membersst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestothe-economytrek-onlinetribbletrollingtrollsThu, 13 Oct 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Testing players to receive rewards in Star Trek Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/testing-players-to-receive-rewards-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/testing-players-to-receive-rewards-in-star-trek-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/testing-players-to-receive-rewards-in-star-trek-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

They're not actually all that troublesome.
One of the little carrots that Star Trek Online has always given its players is a reward for playing on the test server. Specifically, by playing on the Tribble server, players receive a unique "bonus" tribble for their captain on the live server. The fourth entry in the Path to F2P blog series promises that players who take part on the test server will once again receive a special ball of fluff to call their own... but there's more on the way.

The special reward tribble will be given to anyone who either reaches level 6 on a character created for the test server or transfers a higher-level character over once the transfers become available. Current subscribers who clock in time on the server will also be eligible for several other small rewards -- nothing spectacular individually, but enough so that players who log in regular testing will feel a bit of an extra bonus. The test server will get the KDF faction opened this week, so Star Trek Online players will have plenty to test in the name of easily replicating cooing dustbunnies.

The fifth Path to F2P blog post has also gone live this evening with more details on how to rack up these test points and a deeper explanation for why you'd want to do so.

MassivelyTesting players to receive rewards in Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-model-conversionconversioncrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosf2pfeature-testingfree-to-playpath-to-f2pspecial-testingst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertesting-rewardstrek-onlinetribbletribblesupdatesTue, 04 Oct 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: What's your (energy) type?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/captains-log-whats-your-energy-type/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
Captain's Log, Stardate 65244.9...

Hello, computer (and players)! Happy birthday to me, happy birthday to me, happy birthday dear meeeeeee, happy birthday to me. Sorry, I couldn't resist. Yes, today is my birthday, and the best present I could receive is being able to share this week's Captain's Log with you all. As we get closer and closer to the F2P re-launch of Star Trek Online, I expect that there will be new captains tuning into this column each week, so to help support our new comrades in between the weeks that feature an influx of breaking news and developments, I am going to be taking some time to educate everyone on a few of the game's mechanics.

When I first started playing STO, I often found myself wondering about many of the choices available to my different characters. From armor to shields, deflectors to engines, and kits to weapons, there is an endless array of options that we can decide to play with and use. One of the most frequently asked questions I get from new players is, "What is the best energy type to use for my ship's weapons?" In the past, when I really did not know much, I would choose my type by the color it emitted. I now know that "pretty" does not equal "power." While each type has its own special bonuses, it's up to you to decide which to use and why. Here's to hoping I can aid in that decision.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's take a look at the spectrum of colors and their abilities...

Continue reading Captain's Log: What's your (energy) type?

MassivelyCaptain's Log: What's your (energy) type? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antiprotonarmorbirthdaycaptains-logcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdeflectorsdisruptorenginesF2Pfeaturedfree-to-playkitslivestreamperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentphaserplasmapolaronprocpweshieldsspecst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosubsystemstertryontrek-onlineTribbleweaponsThu, 29 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online outlining the road to free-to-play]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-trek-online-outlining-the-road-to-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-trek-online-outlining-the-road-to-free-to-play/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/29/star-trek-online-outlining-the-road-to-free-to-play/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Poke the energy being with a stick, sir? Sure thing! This is probably okay.
The conversion to free-to-play isn't here yet for Star Trek Online, but it's on its way. And like so many things in the franchise, it's starting off with a sacrificial redshirt. Specifically, it's kicking off with the advent of the RedShirt test server for the game, as explained in the first "Path to F2P" blog entry on the official site. It's not that Tribble, the longtime test server, is being removed altogether -- instead, it's being repurposed to allow current subscribers a preview of the game's upcoming conversion.

According to executive producer Stephen D'Angelo, Tribble will reopen for players on the 29th, although it will not be accepting character transfers upon opening. This is intentional, as the development team wants players to test out the new early portions of the game and enjoy the revised experience. It's the start of what promises to be a long path, but current subscribers and the team behind the game get to walk it one step at a time.

MassivelyStar Trek Online outlining the road to free-to-play originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelconversioncrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopmentf2pfree-to-playpreviewsredshirtst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertestingtrek-onlinetribbleThu, 29 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/captains-log-preparing-for-launch-and-farewells/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
Hello, computer (and players)! As we are all now aware, the development team at Star Trek Online is busy making its preparations to re-launch the game with a hybrid, free-to-play model. Currently, the Tribble test server has been taken down as a beta build is being prepared for testing. In the meantime, Red Shirt, originally a Closed Beta test sever, has been opened up to current subscribers to continue testing new releases that will occur between now and the F2P launch. While there is still no date set for when this will be happening, many signs point to an October or November launch period.

To add to the craziness that must be going on at Cryptic's headquarters in Northern California, on Tuesday, Dan Stahl, Executive Producer of STO, publicly announced that he would be vacating the Captain's Chair as he moves on to a new endeavor in his career. Effective immediately, Stephen D'Angelo, Cryptic's CTO, will be taking temporary command as the search for a new EP begins. While this came as a shock to many and was completely unexpected even by me, it may not be the "end of the world" as some players are calling it. Let's explore more.

Ensign, warp 10! Set sensors to maximum range as we explore a little bit more about this change...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells)

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Preparing for launch (and farewells) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahldevelopment-teamepescortexecutive-producerfeaturedlivestreampatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpvppweredshirtst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestephen-dangelostotest-servertrek-onlinetribbleThu, 22 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[STO's August engineering report on plans for Feature Series 4]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/stos-august-engineering-report-on-plans-for-feature-series-4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Star Trek Online screenshot
It's that time again, Trekkers and Trekkies -- Star Trek Online's August Engineering Report is upon us.

STO executive producer Daniel Stahl has offered up a post that kicks off with praise for Cryptic's new overlords at Perfect World Entertainment. He goes on to state that subs are up as players stream in to check out the new Ground Combat system and that the team is working extra hard to push out the long-awaited Deep Space 9-themed Feature Series 4. Stahl also outlines the devs' fall plans for the REDSHIRT closed beta server and notes that the upcoming September 22nd update "will be pretty big [...] some might say even bigger than the launch of Season 4."

Finally, the post winds down with a meaty list of game features and bug fixes currently in testing, including tweaks to the Duty Officer system, random Borg encounters, the group-finder tool, lore quests, and more.

MassivelySTO's August engineering report on plans for Feature Series 4 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlengineering-reportpatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpweredshirtstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestotest-servertribbleMon, 22 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/captains-log-incoming-messages-from-the-devs-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Photo from the event
Captain's Log, Stardate 65131.6...

Hello, computer (and players)! I seem to mention this all the time, but I believe it to be true: The developers working on Star Trek Online are more transparent with their work than the devs of most other games. Whether or not this transparency has been always been a good thing is debatable, though. Still, no matter what one's thoughts on this are, I think we can all agree we like to be "in the know" when it comes to new things in development. This past weekend, a select group of STO players was able to attend another Dine with the Devs event, hosted by yours truly, where transparency was taken to the next level.

As I let you all know last week, the second-ever Dine with the STO Devs event coincided with some STO devs' visit to the Star Trek Las Vegas convention. Over 50 players gathered at a local Vegas restaurant to eat, drink and bombard Cryptic's developers with their most burning questions. Because 99.99% of the game's players were unable to attend, I captured the entire event on audio and would like to present you with a basic transcript of the evening's events. So make some food, grab a drink, and get ready to fire up the Holodeck for another edition of Captain's Log.

Ensign, warp 10! Auxiliary power to the Holodeck matrices and brace for impact...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Incoming messages from the devs... again originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andoriaBorgcrypticcryptic-gozercryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdevelopersdine-with-the-devsdinnerexplorationfeaturedfleetfleet-actionfleetsfoundryfoundry-missionfoundry-missionsgozericonianiconiansinto-the-hivejheiniglas-vegasMeetupnevadapokerpriority-onepvpq-and-ashipshipsst-onlinestastar-trekstar-trek-las-vegasstar-trek-las-vegas-conventionstar-trek-onlinestfstfstargtargstholiantholiansthomasthecrypticcattribbletribblestricorderUIzeroniusrexThu, 18 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/captains-log-the-reverse-slingshot-effect/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 65056.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! The slingshot effect is a maneuver, shown throughout the Star Trek franchise, which allowed starships to move back through the time continuum. By traveling at a high warp factor towards a star with a large gravitational pull, the ship would whip around it and time travel. While this seemed to only exist within the realms of the IP, it looks as though Star Trek Online's Executive Producer Dan Stahl took us on a reverse slingshot course, giving us a glimpse into the future of the game. Before we returned to the original timeline, he made sure to write up everything we saw along the way for those who couldn't make the trip.

In layman's terms, for those of you who missed the news earlier this week, July's Engineering Report has been released. While this is a monthly publication that contains the development pipeline for STO, including some items that have been featured in past issues, there are always a few bullet points added that seem to spark a healthy amount of debate -- one of these includes the ability to auction off your in-game Emblems, a form of currency, for C-Store points that have been paid for with real money. For information on this, including a response from Cryptic's PR department, and more, read ahead past the jump for this week's Captain's Log entry.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's pull a slingshot maneuver of our own...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The reverse slingshot effect originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academyauctionbugsc-storecaptains-logcaptainslogcrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studioscstore pointsCstorePointsdan stahldan-stahldaniel stahlDanielStahlDanStahldevelopmentdine with the devsdine-with-the-devsDineWithTheDevsemblemsengineering reportengineering-reportEngineeringReportexplorationfeaturedfleet starbasefleetsFleetStarbasefoundryklingonlivestreammicrotransactionpatchesplutoQAseason-fiveseason-fourshipsslingshotsolsol planetsSolPlanetsspeciesst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestarbasesstarfleetstfstoterritory controlTerritoryControltime travelTimeTraveltrek-onlinetribblewarpThu, 21 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: Shop till you drop (out of warp)]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/captains-log-shop-till-you-drop-out-of-warp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/captains-log-shop-till-you-drop-out-of-warp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/30/captains-log-shop-till-you-drop-out-of-warp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64997.8...

Hello, computer (and players)! Over the past couple of weeks, there has been much heated debate about microtransactions within MMOs. Whether those microtransactions involve an accessory for your character, additional character slots, or a new mount, players have mixed emotions on spending real money to obtain such items. No matter what your position is on the topic, one thing for certain is that microtransactions are not going to disappear. In fact, they seem to be the future when it comes to how most studios will be delivering exclusive content and items.

Star Trek Online is no stranger to such transactions -- the infamous Cryptic Store (C-Store) is full of items priced from just a dollar all the way up to $25. If you are new to the game or have never made a purchase before, at first glance, you may be wondering what you should buy. While some items are simply there as cosmetic enhancements, some will actually help in your battle against your favorite enemy. To help shed some light on your choices, this week's Captain Log is going to explore the top 10 must-have C-Store items that every STO player should not leave spacedock without.

Ensign, warp 10! It's time to go on a virtual spending spree...

Continue reading Captain's Log: Shop till you drop (out of warp)

MassivelyCaptain's Log: Shop till you drop (out of warp) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>borgbundlec-storeconsolecrypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosenterpriseexcelsiorfeaturedfightersklingonsmirandaMVAMoberthpowerssehlatspendingst-onlinestar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestostoretargtpoltribbletribblesundineThu, 30 Jun 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/16/captains-log-the-gospel-of-tribble/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64959.3...

Hello, compu... what the... shields up, red alert! Brace for impact! A giant Tribble is on the loose, and its name is Season Four. That's right -- the Star Trek Online public test server, Tribble, sometimes nicknamed the Trouble with Tribble, has finally reopened with the major update that we have all been waiting for. This build was first pushed last Friday but was taken down moments later due to a "major database error." The show-stopping kinks have been worked out now, so it is time to get to testing out all of the new content I have been writing about for the past couple of months.

If you have not seen the release notes for this build, there are dozens of updates that will be altering the way you have come to play the game. Not sure what to test? That is what I am here for. The goal of this week's Captain's Log is to provide you a checklist on what to hit up once you patch your game and get on your test toon. Also, if you have never installed the test server, now is a great time -- Cryptic will soon be announcing a Tribble Test Weekend, during which you can log in and receive an exclusive item on the live server just for helping test.

Ensign, warp 10! Let's share some text from the word of Tribble...

Continue reading Captain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The Gospel of Tribble originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-updateassimilationbehind-the-scenesborgcrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahldaniel-stahlfeaturedfoundryground-combatground-combat-revampkdfklingonlivestreampvepve-queueqonosseason-4season-fourstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosto-livestreamtesttest-servertribblevivoxThu, 16 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain's Log: The Foundry and you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/captains-log-the-foundry-and-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/captains-log-the-foundry-and-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/captains-log-the-foundry-and-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Captain's Log, Stardate 64750.3...

Hello, computer (and players)! "Ceeeeelebrate good times, come on!" That's right, captains -- it's time to let the good times roll and the never-ending content stream to begin. Earlier this week, Larry Everett helped break Star Trek Online's news drought with his post about the Foundry being moved from the test server, nicknamed Tribble, to the live server, aka Holodeck. (I've always thought the test server should have been called Holodeck, but that is a discussion for another day.) For those of you who do not know by now, the Foundry is a user-generated content (UGC) toolset that allows players to create their own missions and episodes.

Since late last year, volunteer testers have been creating hundreds of missions and pushing them out for captains of all ranks to try. Co-developed by Cryptic devs who are working at implementing the system in the upcoming Neverwinter game, the Foundry has gone through extensive changes since its inception -- the evolution of the toolset has actually provided a platform for some UGC episodes that rival those made by Cryptic. But what does this really mean for STO players?

Ensign, warp 10! Let's talk about STO's "saving grace."

Continue reading Captain's Log: The Foundry and you

MassivelyCaptain's Log: The Foundry and you originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>authorcaptains-logFeaturedholodeckRolePlayingst-onlineStar-TrekStar-Trek-MMOstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-online-foundrystar-trek-online-foundry-betastosto-foundrysto-foundry-beginnerssto-foundry-beta-walkthroughsto-foundry-forumsTribbleugcThu, 31 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[STO's Dan Stahl fields 30 questions about the Enterprise, Tholians and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/stos-dan-stahl-fields-30-questions-about-the-enterprise-tholia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/stos-dan-stahl-fields-30-questions-about-the-enterprise-tholia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/stos-dan-stahl-fields-30-questions-about-the-enterprise-tholia/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As Star Trek Online grows ever-closer to its one-year anniversary in February 2011, fans of Cryptic's space saga have burning questions about the future of the game. In swoops Executive Producer Dan Stahl to keep the flames under control with a whopping 30 answers in the latest STO Q&A session.

As usual, there is no overriding theme to these questions, which range from whether we'll be seeing the 2009 Star Trek movie's Enterprise in the game (only if Paramount gives permission), whether Cryptic is working on more voice-overs for missions (yes), and when we'll be seeing the Tholians (probably not until after Season 4 releases). Stahl emphasizes that the STO team's prime directive is, simply, "More Like Trek," and the devs are working hard to infuse more of a Star Trek feel into every aspect of the game.

Meanwhile, the Foundry -- the player-created mission system -- briefly went into beta on the Tribble test server yesterday, but was quickly taken down due to issues with the infrastructure. Stahl has great hopes for it, however: "In all -- the Foundry will open up the ability for the community to create some great (and let's be honest -- not so great) missions that you'll be able to play just like any other mission in the game."

MassivelySTO's Dan Stahl fields 30 questions about the Enterprise, Tholians and more originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahlenterpriseenterprise-efoundryq-and-aseason-4star-trekstar-trek-onlinestotest-serverthe-foundrytholiantribblevoice-oversFri, 03 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online hosts a play night on the test server]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/star-trek-online-hosts-a-play-night-on-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/star-trek-online-hosts-a-play-night-on-the-test-server/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/star-trek-online-hosts-a-play-night-on-the-test-server/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The team for Star Trek Online has been working on cleaning up bugs, deploying new features, and generally getting the game prepped for the upcoming Season 1.2 patch, which promises a variety of additions and improvements to the game. In order to help facilitate the testing of new features -- and to enjoy getting into the mix with the players -- the development team is going to be hosting one of Cryptic's frequent play nights with the general populace.

Unlike normal, this night isn't taking place on the live servers, but on the Tribble test server. From 4-6 PM PST (7-9 PM EST) on May 24th, the developers will be on the server, taking part in PvE content as well as on the PvP maps. Whether you want the developers to hear about your great idea for new task forces, want to tell them how much you want the game to have new content, or are just still recovering from the series finale of Lost, any player with an active Star Trek Online account is encouraged to mix it up with the development team.

MassivelyStar Trek Online hosts a play night on the test server originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 23 May 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosplay-nightpublic-testst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotesttest-servertrek-onlinetribbleSun, 23 May 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tribble weekend event courts STO players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/tribble-weekend-event-courts-sto-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/tribble-weekend-event-courts-sto-players/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/tribble-weekend-event-courts-sto-players/#commentsFiled under: , ,

For most Star Trek Online players, the chance to test drive the first major content update, Season One: Common Ground, would be a treat enough. However, Cryptic wants to sweeten the deal during its Tribble Weekend Event by rewarding testers with two virtual goodies: a special in-game "Assimilated Tribble" (which acts sort of like Borg-repellent) and an awesome title, Crash Test Tribble.

These rewards are pretty easy to attain, too. STO players only need to log on to the Tribble test server for at least an hour between Friday afternoon (March 19) and Monday morning (March 23), and the goodies will be handed out when the patch goes live.

Season One: Common Ground promises to roll out PvP improvements, additional customization options, more ships and missions, and even respecs for the growing MMO.

MassivelyTribble weekend event courts STO players originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crypticcryptic-studioseventseason-onestar-trek-onlinestotribbleFri, 19 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online locks phasers on Season One: Common Ground]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/star-trek-online-locks-phasers-on-season-one-common-ground/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/star-trek-online-locks-phasers-on-season-one-common-ground/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/star-trek-online-locks-phasers-on-season-one-common-ground/#commentsFiled under: , ,

On March 18, it's do or die for the Federation, as Cryptic's first major content patch -- Season One: Common Ground -- promises to hit Star Trek Online's live servers. Love 'em or hate 'em, the STO dev team looks to live up to their word on "walking the talk" by pumping out more content that players crave.

We didn't think there could be any news more exciting than a brand-new faction coming to STO, but Season One might just top it with a heap of new goodies. In addition, Cryptic's Craig Zinkievich released a new State of the Game report to address player concerns and the course STO is heading for over the next few months. There's even a new video entitled "Expanding Universe, Part I" that gives players a sneak peek into this brave new patch.

Engage thrusters, mister, and we'll break it down for you after the jump.

Continue reading Star Trek Online locks phasers on Season One: Common Ground

MassivelyStar Trek Online locks phasers on Season One: Common Ground originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-cruiserBreakingbridge-combatcommon-groundcraig-Zinkievichoff-duty-clothingpakledrespecrigelianseason-oneshanty-township-interiorsstar-trek-onlinestotellaritetier-5-shipstier-five-shiptribbleFri, 12 Mar 2010 23:30:00 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