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[RIFT hints at expansion details with strange box]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/rift-hints-at-expansion-details-with-strange-box/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/rift-hints-at-expansion-details-with-strange-box/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/27/rift-hints-at-expansion-details-with-strange-box/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT - strange gift box
Trion's coy marketing campaign for RIFT's next update continues. Yesterday we received a mysterious box containing the following: two posters featuring historical raids, a level with a "10" sticker on it, four soles, six keys (one of which was labeled Port Tempest), five glass prisms, and a red hooded cloak.

What does all this mean?

PCGamer received a similar bundle and has posted its thoughts, and we tend to agree. Chances are good that we're looking at a major RIFT expansion featuring new raids, new souls, a level-cap increase, and six new areas. And the glass prisms? We have no idea, so stay tuned.

MassivelyRIFT hints at expansion details with strange box originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestfantasypvpriftrift-expansionrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsSun, 27 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT Conquest video boasts 'this is where realities collide']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/rift-conquest-video-boasts-this-is-where-realities-collide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/rift-conquest-video-boasts-this-is-where-realities-collide/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/rift-conquest-video-boasts-this-is-where-realities-collide/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RIFT
Curious how the makers of RIFT are going to turn a two-faction game into a three-faction PvP brawl? Us too! But Trion Worlds has a few clever ideas to capitalize on the best elements of PvP innovation and evolution with its upcoming Conquest system.

"With Conquest we're really trying to capture the essence of open-world PvP gameplay," shares Lead Designer William Fisher in a new developer video. "This is where realities collide." He goes on to say that this new system isn't Defiants against Guardians, but instead three brand-new factions from across the planes duking it out with player assistance.

Check out the new video after the jump, and when you're done with that, catch up with our very own Karen Bryan's hands-on experience with the Conquest system!

Continue reading RIFT Conquest video boasts 'this is where realities collide'

MassivelyRIFT Conquest video boasts 'this is where realities collide' originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestconquest-pvpconquest-systemdefiantsdev-diarydev-videofantasyguardianspvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsvideowilliam-fisherWed, 23 May 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Conquest PvP]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-conquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-conquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/enter-at-your-own-rift-conquest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

rift conquest
RIFT fans wracked their brains trying to decipher the cryptic message on the forums a few weeks ago, and it turned out they were right: RIFT is on the verge of seeing the arrival of three faction PvP, and the game took its first step toward that with a test session on PTS last week.

If you missed it, take heart because this week's Enter at Your Own Rift gives a recap of the event and a beginning look at how Conquest plays out. Read on for handy primer on three-faction PvP in Telara!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Conquest PvP

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Conquest PvP originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestdominionenter-at-your-own-riftextractorsfaction-pvpfantasyfeaturedhands-onkaren-bryannightfalloathswornopinionpreviewpreviewspvpriftrift-planes-of-telararvrtelarathree-faction-pvpthree-way-pvptriontrion-worldsWed, 23 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion releases Defiance feature video, details 'transmedia' synergy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/trion-releases-defiance-feature-video-details-transmedia-synerg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/trion-releases-defiance-feature-video-details-transmedia-synerg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/trion-releases-defiance-feature-video-details-transmedia-synerg/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Defiance - ATVs in SFO
Trion has released a new making-of featurette for Defiance, its "transmedia" property that includes a sci-fi shooter MMO and a Syfy television series.

Defiance the game takes place in the bombed out ruins of a post-alien-invasion San Francisco, while Defiance the TV show is set in and around St. Louis, Missouri. Despite the location differences, Trion says that the events of the virtual world will affect those of the show and vice versa. How so (and how much)? That remains to be seen, but Shacknews has a game preview that sheds a little light on the subject.

In a nutshell, characters on the show might namedrop a gamer avatar who completes a particular mission or makes an impact on the game world in some way. Syfy president Dave Howe also told the website that he's hopeful that gameplay events will have a more significant impact on season two of the television series.

Head past the break to view the full video feature.

[Source: Trion press release]

Continue reading Trion releases Defiance feature video, details 'transmedia' synergy

MassivelyTrion releases Defiance feature video, details 'transmedia' synergy originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3rd-person-shooterdave-howedefiancemaking-ofmaking-of-defiancemmo-shootersci-fishooterthird-person-shootertrailertransmediatriontrion-worldsvideoTue, 22 May 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon to offer special limited-time deals on TERA, RIFT, others [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/amazon-to-offer-special-limited-time-deals-on-tera-rift-others/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/amazon-to-offer-special-limited-time-deals-on-tera-rift-others/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/amazon-to-offer-special-limited-time-deals-on-tera-rift-others/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

TERA screenshot
Have you been watching TERA via livestreams and wistfully wishing you could jump in and join but you haven't wanted to plunk down the cash at launch? Well as long as you don't mind not having a box to display on your shelf, your waiting has actually paid off! Amazon is kicking off a 12-day digital "MAYhem" sale today and offering select MMO titles at a significant discount on specific days. Those deals are as follows:
Mark your calendar if you don't want to miss these offers.

[Update: We've added in the TERA sale on May 26th as well.]

[Source: Amazon press release]

MassivelyAmazon to offer special limited-time deals on TERA, RIFT, others [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.comblueholebluehole-studiosconsoleconsolesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsquaresquare-enixterathree-faction-pvptriontrion-worldsThu, 17 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why I Play: RIFT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/why-i-play-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/why-i-play-rift/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/why-i-play-rift/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT
Is it possible for a top-tier MMO to come out of nowhere and bowl you over? Considering that I follow these games not only for a hobby but as a writer for Massively, I always assumed the answer to that was "no." Until it happened, that is. Until RIFT.

It's not as though RIFT was a big secret or anything, but up until the late hours of 2010, it was very low on my -- and many of my friends' -- radars. I often got it confused with TERA, for Pete's sake! It wasn't until I got my hands on it at PAX that year and then saw how huge the beta got that I realized there was more to this supposedly generic fantasy title than I'd assumed. It truly felt like it came out of nowhere, and before I knew it, I was enjoying what became one of my favorite games of 2011.

So why did I play RIFT, and why do I still log in on occasion today? Trust me, it's not for the Elves.

Continue reading Why I Play: RIFT

MassivelyWhy I Play: RIFT originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmenteaeditorialelectronic-artsfantasyfeaturedguild-wars-2gw2lucasartsmassively-metametancsoftnostalgiaop-edopinionpaxpax-primepax-prime-2010riftrift-literift-planes-of-telarasci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictortriontrion-worldswarcraftwhy-i-playworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 16 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT introduces three-faction PvP with Conquest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rift-introduces-three-faction-pvp-with-conquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rift-introduces-three-faction-pvp-with-conquest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rift-introduces-three-faction-pvp-with-conquest/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- RIFT
RIFT players have been speculating about what the much-hyped but little-revealed PvP announcement for the title would be, but now it's official: RIFT is bringing out three-faction warfare. In a post on the RIFT official site, Trion Worlds has introduced the Conquest PvP mode, which is a "no-holds-barred, interdimensional battle" in which players can choose from one of three factions (the power-hungry Dominion, the noble Oathsworn, and the knowledge-seeking Nightfall) and take part in a three-way battle to answer one poignant question: "What is the role of the Ascended in the cosmos? To rule, to protect, or to ascend?"

Players eager to become a part of the Conquest won't have to wait long. This Thursday, May 17th, at 7:00 EDT, Trion will be bringing Conquest to the public test server. All you have to do to get on the action yourself is head on over to the game's PTS "getting started" page and follow the instructions, and voila. So get out there and prepare for war, Ascended; it's time to conquer!

[Thanks to Valorith for the tip!]

MassivelyRIFT introduces three-faction PvP with Conquest originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction-pvpbreakingconquestconquest-pvpconquest-pvp-modefantasyplayer-vs-playerptspublic-test-serverpvprealm-vs-realmriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrthree-faction-pvptriontrion-worldsMon, 14 May 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Woodland critters]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

One Shots
TERA isn't quite two weeks old, but it's already offering up some spectacular views. Kromic on the Dragonfall server paused while riding on his mount to take this shot. He writes in,
While doing some exploring on my trusty steed in TERA, I found a great view of the capital city Velika.
His screenshot is just after the cut, along with three more images of woodland critters doing their duty to spice up our MMO scenery.

Continue reading One Shots: Woodland critters

MassivelyOne Shots: Woodland critters originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desertatitdblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsegenesisegypten-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryhistoricalmythologyone-shotsreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarasandboxscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmenttaletellingteratriontrion-worldsuser-submissionsSun, 13 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion dev posts ARG messages on RIFT forums]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/trion-dev-posts-arg-messages-on-rift-forums/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/trion-dev-posts-arg-messages-on-rift-forums/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/trion-dev-posts-arg-messages-on-rift-forums/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

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

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

[Thanks to Jeff for the tip!]

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-faction-pvpalternate-reality-gameargfantasyfuncomhorrorriftrift-3-faction-pvprift-literift-planes-of-telararift-rvrsci-fantasysecret-worldthe-secret-worldthree-faction-pvptriontrion-worldstswFri, 11 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New End of Nations trailer shines some light on the Shadow Revolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/new-end-of-nations-trailer-shines-some-light-on-the-shadow-revol/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/new-end-of-nations-trailer-shines-some-light-on-the-shadow-revol/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/new-end-of-nations-trailer-shines-some-light-on-the-shadow-revol/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

End of Nations -- Shadow Revolution
Last month, we got a look at the Liberation Front faction of Trion Worlds' upcoming MMORTS, End of Nations. Today, the company released a trailer highlighting the Liberation Front's enemy of war, the forebodingly named Shadow Revolution.

Players of the Shadow Revolution faction have their choice of two classes: the Wraith class, which focuses on utilizing guerrilla tactics to strike quickly and retreat before counterattacks can be made, and the Phantom class, which takes advantage of cloaking devices in order to launch devastating surprise attacks that can cripple enemy forces before they know what hit them. To get a look at the Shadow Revolution's units in action, just check out the official trailer below.

Continue reading New End of Nations trailer shines some light on the Shadow Revolution

MassivelyNew End of Nations trailer shines some light on the Shadow Revolution originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classclassesend-of-nationseonf2pfactionfactionsfree-to-playmmortspetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesphantomrtssci-fishadow-revolutiontrailertrailerstriontrion-worldsvideovideoswarwraithWed, 09 May 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT adds streaming client]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/rift-adds-streaming-client/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/rift-adds-streaming-client/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/rift-adds-streaming-client/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT
The barrier between interest and hands-on play was knocked down today as Trion Worlds introduced a streaming client for RIFT. The new client will allow players to jump into the game without fully downloading it first.

Players with a faster connection are invited to start the streaming client and then log into the game soon thereafter. The new client will continue to download the remainder of the game even while the player is logged in. However, Trion said that slower connection speed computers should wait for the full client to finish downloading first.

RIFT's launcher will automatically convert to the new system. Players experiencing background downloading while in-game will see a symbol on the screen to indicate the fact.

MassivelyRIFT adds streaming client originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>background-downloadclientfantasypatcherriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarastreaming-clienttriontrion-worldsupdateWed, 09 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Rift evolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/enter-at-your-own-rift-rift-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/enter-at-your-own-rift-rift-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/enter-at-your-own-rift-rift-evolution/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

rift
RIFT has seen a great deal of new content and features over the past year, and each update tends to generate a lot of buzz about things like new raid zones, new warzones, world events, and yes, even fishing. But there have been quite a few subtle (and not so subtle) changes to the core of the game -- that is, the rifts themselves. Last summer, Justin wrote a great piece wondering whether rifts were in "danger of collapsing," and his point was that they were a good idea on paper but needed tweaks in order to stay relevant to the game.

It's worth looking back at the evolution of rifts over the past year to see what's changed since launch day. Read on for a look at what's new with rifts!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Rift evolution

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Rift evolution originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ember-isleenter-at-your-own-riftfantasyfeaturedkaren-bryanopinionriftrift-planes-of-telarariftsshimmersandtelaratriontrion-worldszone-eventsWed, 09 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Is LotRO's questing system over the hill?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-road-to-mordor-is-lotros-questing-system-over-the-hill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-road-to-mordor-is-lotros-questing-system-over-the-hill/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-road-to-mordor-is-lotros-questing-system-over-the-hill/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
There's a good chance you're not reading this column right now but instead are fully immersed in the weekend beta for Guild Wars 2: Guild Harder. That's OK. I won't hold it against you -- I may even be playing it as well. Oh, those ArenaNet folks. They make such lofty promises, don't they? They're going to rewrite MMOs as we know them and show us once and for all that we've been playing with Tinker Toys when we could have fully functional jetpacks and whatnot.

I don't harbor any ill will against Guild Wars 2; in fact, I'm quite looking forward to it. But as everyone's focused on the game's excising of traditional questing as popularized by World of Warcraft, I thought it would be worth examining just how dated Lord of the Rings Online's questing system has become, if at all.

In an era of dynamic events, public quests, full voice-over, and other techniques designed to get us away from the text box questing model, will LotRO hold its ground against these fads or is it truly becoming a relic of the past? Let's dig in!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Is LotRO's questing system over the hill?

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Is LotRO's questing system over the hill? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmenteaelectronic-artsepic-questsepic-storyepic-storylinef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playguild-wars-2gw2jrr-tolkienlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsncsoftopinionquestquestingquesting-systemriders-of-rohanriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararoad-to-mordorsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republicthe-road-to-mordortolkientortriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowSat, 28 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion Worlds explains how Defiance will 'co-evolve' in two mediums]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/trion-worlds-explains-how-defiance-will-co-evolve-in-two-mediu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/trion-worlds-explains-how-defiance-will-co-evolve-in-two-mediu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/trion-worlds-explains-how-defiance-will-co-evolve-in-two-mediu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Defiance
Wondering whether -- or if -- the joint venture of Syfy and Trion Worlds will work in tandem with Defiance? Then you may want to put aside a few minutes to watch the following video that attempts to explain how a TV show and an MMO will work together to create a blended experience for fans.

"In the past it's always been very difficult to connect television shows, which are always evolving, with video games, which are static," Trion Worlds CEO Lars Buttler states, going on to say that Trion has cracked that code. "In our unique setup, we can do things other people have never dared to try before."

Defiance the TV show and Defiance the MMO will, according to Buttler, "literally depend on each other and co-evolve."

It may not be heavy on specifics, but it's a fascinating watch nonetheless. Check it out after the jump!

Continue reading Trion Worlds explains how Defiance will 'co-evolve' in two mediums

MassivelyTrion Worlds explains how Defiance will 'co-evolve' in two mediums originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>defiancef2pfree-to-playinterviewlars-buttlersyfytelevisiontriontrion-worldstvvideoWed, 25 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Handy tips for fishing and survival in Telara]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/enter-at-your-own-rift-handy-tips-for-fishing-and-survival-in-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/enter-at-your-own-rift-handy-tips-for-fishing-and-survival-in-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/enter-at-your-own-rift-handy-tips-for-fishing-and-survival-in-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

rift fishing
In my last column about RIFT, I looked at a few highlights that were coming with Update 1.8, but because of the buzz surrounding the two new skills of fishing and survival, I wanted to delve into both a little more closely and perhaps even give a few tips I picked up so far that might be helpful if you're thinking of giving it a try.

Whether you're an old salt or a greenhorn, and if you're curious about what exactly it takes to fish in Telara or what you need to build yourself a nice camp and a warm meal, this week's Enter at Your Own Rift might help!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Handy tips for fishing and survival in Telara

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Handy tips for fishing and survival in Telara originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cookingcraftingenter-at-your-own-riftfantasyfeaturedfishingfishing-derbyfishing-trophyopinionriftrift-bedrollrift-derbyrift-fishing-guiderift-planes-of-telararift-survival-guiderift-tentsurvivaltelaratradeskillstriontrion-worldsWed, 25 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[End of Nations Liberation Front info and trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/end-of-nations-liberation-front-info-and-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/end-of-nations-liberation-front-info-and-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/end-of-nations-liberation-front-info-and-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

End of Nations - Liberation Front trailer
Trion's End of Nations MMORTS features two playable factions. One of them is the heroic Liberation Front, which is featured in the company's latest video release. The Front boasts two classes: the hard-hitting Spartan, who drives tanks and "other infantry units with high defenses and high damage output," and the Patriot, who specializes in multi-role support units.

Both classes, as well as a number of selectable (and customizable) units, are highlighted in the new trailer, so take a look past the break and get a leg up on building your battle-ready company.

End of Nations is a free-to-play strategy title that is currently in alpha testing.

[Source: Trion press release]

Continue reading End of Nations Liberation Front info and trailer

MassivelyEnd of Nations Liberation Front info and trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>end-of-nationsend-of-nations-classesend-of-nations-factionsend-of-nations-unitsend-of-nations-videoeonf2pfree-to-playliberation-frontmmortspatriotpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesrtssci-fispartantrailertriontrion-worldsvideowarWed, 25 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT kicks off service in Korea]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/rift-kicks-off-service-in-korea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/rift-kicks-off-service-in-korea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/rift-kicks-off-service-in-korea/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's possible that there's a dirty joke in here. I don't actually know how to read Korean.
MMOs generally don't sojourn too far from home. Outside of launches in the US and Europe, it's rare for a western game to be adapted to the Korean or Chinese market; far more often games from those markets get shipped here. But it does happen every so often, and such is the case with RIFT. As of today, the game has officially started its full commercial service in Korea under the guidance of NetMarble.

The game is also launching with several of the usual launch events such as promotional giveaways, although they're of limited utility if you don't read or speak Korean. It's an unusual export, but with several Korean games making major promotional pushes in the US (such as Aion and TERA), it might be the time to see if cross-cultural appeal works in the other direction. And if you're familiar with the language and want to see how the game plays when adapted, now's the time.

MassivelyRIFT kicks off service in Korea originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasyinternational-launchkorealocalizationmmo-industrynetmarblenew-localizationriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarasouth-koreatranslationtriontrion-worldsTue, 24 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Free-to-play holdouts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-holdouts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-holdouts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/the-perfect-ten-free-to-play-holdouts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
In the increasingly diminishing field of subscription-only MMOs, two distinct camps have formed. There is the Old Guard that has its established playerbase and is simply not interested in jumping on board the F2P train, and then there are the New Kids on the Block (which would make an excellent band name, by the way), who argue that their premium features and AAA content warrant a subscription in the F2P age.

A few years ago, doing a list of the final few F2P holdouts would have been a ridiculous proposition, but now it's actually difficult to get to 10 of these. Each company has a different reason that it hasn't given these games more flexible payment options (FPO should replace F2P; pass it on!), and while some have addressed this publicly, others say nothing and leave us to speculate on it.

For today's Perfect Ten, we're going to look at the 10 biggest current F2P holdouts in the industry and muse about what's going on behind the scenes. Will this list be impossible to do in a few years or will subscription-only titles come back in a big way? Hey, I don't predict things; I just make lists.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Free-to-play holdouts

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Free-to-play holdouts originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acactivisionAndy-Cataldoasherons-callbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcamelotccpccp-gamesclassic-mmoconsoleconsolesdaocdark-age-of-cameloteaelectronic-artsendless-trialeveeve-onlinef2pfantasyfeaturedffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivfpsfree-to-playhumorinternet-spaceshipsKai-Schoberlord-britishlucasartsmmofpsmythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyopinionp10perfect-10perfect-tenplanetsidepsps1pvpriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararounduprvrsandboxsci-fiscott-hartsmansoesony-online-entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinesquaresquare-enixstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republicthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tentop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtortriontrion-worldsturbineturbine-entertainmentultimaultima onlineuowarwarcraftwarhammerwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 19 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT's patch 1.8: Infernal Dawn goes live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/rifts-patch-1-8-infernal-dawn-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/rifts-patch-1-8-infernal-dawn-goes-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/rifts-patch-1-8-infernal-dawn-goes-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- RIFT
Maelforge and Laethys better be watching their backs because RIFT's patch 1.8: Infernal Dawn is now live, and players are now able to head into the eponymous Infernal Dawn raid to lay the smack down on the pair of dragon-gods. On top of that, the patch will be ringing in a new world event known as the War of the Wanton Maw, which will presumably involve players fighting back against Maelforge's Wanton cult and Laethys' Golden Maw.

If you're a less combative type, don't worry. Infernal Dawn is also bringing some more relaxing activities in the form of two new tradeskills. Those looking to spend a calm day on the water can bait a hook and spend an afternoon fishing, while those who want to rough it in the great outdoors can craft food and shelter with the new survival skill. For the full details on what this monumental patch is bringing to the game, just head on over to the official forums to check out the patch notes yourself. Oh, and if you're curious about what you're going up against, just click on past the cut for a look at Maelforge and Laethys in the official Infernal Dawn trailer.

Continue reading RIFT's patch 1.8: Infernal Dawn goes live

MassivelyRIFT's patch 1.8: Infernal Dawn goes live originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.8fantasyinfernal-dawnlaethysmaelforgepatchpatch-1.8patchesraidraidsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldswar-of-the-wanton-mawworld-eventworld-eventsWed, 18 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT community team livestreaming Infernal Dawn tomorrow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/rift-community-team-livestreaming-infernal-dawn-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's not really a raid unless there's a ten-minute diversion when the tanks both go out for a smoke.
If you're playing RIFT, odds are good you're looking forward to the next major content update -- and if you're also a raider, so much the better. But it's one thing to read about all of the neat things that will be going on in a new raid and another thing entirely to actually see them. That's why the community team is hosting an official livestream of the new Infernal Dawn raid that's getting released this week.

The run will begin at 11:30 a.m. PDT, moving through the entirety of the raid and showing off all of the bosses without spoiling the fights themselves. The community team will also be explaining the lore behind the area and the bosses and answering community questions when possible. So if you've got the time around noon tomorrow to check it out, head over to the game's Facebook page and get ready for a guided tour of the newest raid.

[Source: Trion Worlds press release]

MassivelyRIFT community team livestreaming Infernal Dawn tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventsfacebookfantasyinfernal-dawnlivestreamnew-raidsnewspatchpatchespreviewsraidraidsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarastreamingtriontrion-worldsvideovideosMon, 16 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of April 7th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-7th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-7th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-7th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Oh hey, guys and gals, did you know that it was just Friday the 13th? Yes, it was. Don't worry; you'll have nothing but good luck on this week's recap of livestream goodness. If you missed a stream that you really wanted to see, or if you've never tuned in to check out what we do, head on over to our Twitch.tv page and keep an eye out. Be sure to bookmark the livestream guide as well so you can keep up with the current schedule. We have a lot of variety in our line-up, so it's always good to check back!

This week we had some great stuff! MJ has been streaming like her life depends on it lately, first jumping into EverQuest II, then spending some time in Vanguard: Saga of Heroes. She had to pay some attention Aion, of course, and there, she showed off some player housing and took a trip on an airlink. Mike was back in EVE Online avoiding death-rays and spacemen and later found himself dead in RIFT... again. The Mists of Pandaria have tempted Richie once again, and thankfully our cameras were there to capture it. Meanwhile, I spent some time boating in Second Life and gave a first look at Stronghold Kingdoms.

Just look at that lineup, will you? We're proud! Now click past the cut and get to viewing!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of April 7th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of April 7th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbeau-hindmanBlizzardccpeve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iifeaturedFirefly-Studioslinden-labLiveStreamlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmj-guthriemv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvriftround-uproundupsecond-lifeSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamstronghold-kingdomstelontriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvideovideosWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 15 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: Firefall, Defiance, John Romero, and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/the-firing-line-firefall-defiance-john-romero-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/the-firing-line-firefall-defiance-john-romero-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/the-firing-line-firefall-defiance-john-romero-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - Shooter news roundup
Dude, there was a ton of big shooter news this week!

I mean, this isn't terribly unusual, particularly since the genre is expanding at a rapid rate, but when I've got to cut interesting items out of this column for length reasons, you know it's been an eventful few days.

Join me after the break for a recap on everything from Firefall to Defiance to John Romero and beyond.

Continue reading The Firing Line: Firefall, Defiance, John Romero, and more

MassivelyThe Firing Line: Firefall, Defiance, John Romero, and more originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconconsoleconventioncounter-strike-online-2cso2defiancedefiance-trailerdustdust-514eveeve-onlineexpof2pfeaturedfirefallfirefall-cinematicfirefall-opening-cinematicfiring-linefirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playhalldor-fannarjohn-romerommo-shootermmofpsnews-roundupopinionpaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expoplaystationplaystation-3ps3pvpred-5red-5-studiosroundupsci-fishootershooter-news-roundupshooter-rounduptflthe-firing-linethird-person-shootertpstriontrion-worldswarFri, 13 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT unveils changes to queued quest reward system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/rift-unveils-changes-to-queued-quest-reward-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/rift-unveils-changes-to-queued-quest-reward-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/rift-unveils-changes-to-queued-quest-reward-system/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- RIFT
RIFT's patch 1.8 is just around the corner, and the patch is bringing not only a new raid and new activities but a few quality of life improvements as well. Community manager James "Elrar" Nichols stopped by the forums today to give players a heads up on the changes coming to the game's queued quest rewards system. What are queued quest rewards? Pretty much what they sound like. Completing certain quests and dungeons will bring up a queued quest loot button that players can press at their convenience to receive the loot and XP from the activity.

This has led some players to keep these rewards queued so that they can claim them all at once for massive XP gains. In light of that, Trion Worlds is changing the way these rewards work by causing them to be automatically granted to the player upon completion. Of course, players will still have to choose their reward for quests that grant the option, but there will now be a limit on how many rewards you can have queued at any given time. Players are advised to claim all pending queued quest rewards before patch 1.8 hits because the team can't guarantee that doing so will be possible after the patch. For the full details, head on over to the full forum post.

MassivelyRIFT unveils changes to queued quest reward system originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.8fantasyinfernal-dawnpatch-1.8queued-quest-rewardsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldsWed, 11 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin']]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/11/enter-at-your-own-rift-fishin-and-survivin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

rift fishing
One of the parts of the recent RIFT producer's letter that caught my eye was the hint that there will soon be more to do in game besides "stab" stuff. Maybe I'm mellowing in my old age, or perhaps it's because of my inner Bartle explorer player-type, but I'm enjoying activities in MMOs that don't involve mass slaughter all the time. Usually, that means crafting, but the inventory management that's required often leaves me cross-eyed by the time I'm done.

With Update 1.8, RIFT will add two new skills to the game: fishing and survival. Non-combat activities have already been introduced in past updates, like the wedding instance, but these two new skills look to be fun games within the game, so I was eager to check things out. Join me as I don some hip-waders, pack up some flint, and head to PTS for a peek at fishing, survival, and a quick peek at the looking-for-guild tool.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin'

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Fishin' and survivin' originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingenter-at-your-own-riftfantasyfeaturedfishingkaren-bryanlfglooking-for-guildopinionpatchpatchespreviewpreviewsriftrift-fishingrift-looking-for-guild-windowrift-planes-of-telararift-survivalsurvivaltelaratriontrion-worldsWed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: A new dawn]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/one-shots-a-new-dawn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/one-shots-a-new-dawn/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/one-shots-a-new-dawn/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

One Shots
One Shots is making a tentative return in its new format and timeslot this weekend! Kicking off the screenshot-madness is Johanis, who's delivered a gorgeous shot of what looks suspiciously like a sparklepony in RIFT (and seriously makes me want to resub). He writes in,
I wanted to share a picture of Samya, my level 20 Mathosian Mage in RIFT. This particular shot was taken just as she had received her achievement awarded for climbing to the highest mountain in Silverwood. I had to climb quite a few mountains before I hit this spot, and the view made the climb worth it. Just beautiful. She was also quite proud to be riding her newly acquired Nebula mount, which she earned during the current Carnival.
Johanis' screenshot, along with a few other gems from this week, is just behind the cut!

Continue reading One Shots: A new dawn

MassivelyOne Shots: A new dawn originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bring-back-one-shotsdiscworlddiscworld-mudfantasygalleriesgallerymudone-shotsreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarascreenshotscreenshotstriontrion-worldsuser-submissionsSun, 08 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of March 31st]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-31st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-31st/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

MVTV banner
What a week, huh? We had all sorts of great livestreaming for you to enjoy. If you missed some of the cool things we put on live during the week, no worry! Just check back here every week and you'll be able to recap many of the best moments from our week of live video games. Each week is something new, and this week is no different. We've got quite the variety!

This week, we have Mike jamming on some EVE Online and then jumping into RIFT for horrible magical adventures. Richie ventured into the Mists of Pandaria beta for World of Warcraft to show off cute, cuddly, and furry butts while wielding a weapon of destruction! I had to check out some of the good and bad points about Second Life's Linden Homes, free structures that come with any premium account; I also jumped into Luvinia Online to participate in a huge PvP event, and let me just give you two words to entice you to watch: giant chickens. Blake took some time to shoot things in Global Agenda, and finally, we had MJ taking on some Bristlebane quests in EverQuest II, following it up by attacking stuff all over Aion! Check us out!

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of March 31st

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of March 31st originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbeau-hindmaneq-iieq2eve-onlineeverquest-iifeaturedglobal-agendalinden-labLiveStreamlivestreamingluvinia-onlinemassively-metamassively-tvmetamv-tvmvtvpreviously-on-mv-tvriftsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-Entertainmentstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftwowSun, 08 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: Trion previews End of Nations' armory]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/massively-exclusive-trion-previews-end-of-nations-armory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/massively-exclusive-trion-previews-end-of-nations-armory/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/massively-exclusive-trion-previews-end-of-nations-armory/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

End of Nations - armory
Trion's super-secret End of Nations is moving right along in its alpha cycle, and today Massively has an exclusive piece of news for you regarding the upcoming MMORTS.

The game differs from traditional real-time strategy titles because it doesn't have base-building, but what it does have is something called an armory. Trion tells us that players will "set their loadouts, create companies, modify units, customize skins, and more" inside the armory. The dev team has just revamped the armory mechanics, and you can get a good look at the armory window in the image after the cut (click on it to zoom in!).

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: Trion previews End of Nations' armory

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: Trion previews End of Nations' armory originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armoryend-of-nationsend-of-nations-armoryeonexclusivef2pfree-to-playmassively-exclusivemmortspetroglyphpetroglyph-gamesrtssci-fitriontrion-worldsuiuser-interfacewarThu, 05 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Maelforge and Laethys soar into action in RIFT's latest Infernal Dawn trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/maelforge-and-laethys-soar-into-action-in-rifts-latest-infernal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/maelforge-and-laethys-soar-into-action-in-rifts-latest-infernal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/04/maelforge-and-laethys-soar-into-action-in-rifts-latest-infernal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- RIFT
In the recent weeks, we've been inundated with information on RIFT's upcoming patch 1.8 and the accompanying new raid, Infernal Dawn. We've already gotten up-close-and-personal looks at the big baddies of Infernal Dawn, Laethys and Maelforge, but today Trion Worlds has released a spankin'-new trailer to get players hyped up to take on the dastardly duo of draconic deities.

The trailer itself takes players inside the raid proper to give them a look at the many enemies they'll be squaring off against. It also gives us the first look at Laethys and Maelforge live and in action, and to say that these two appear formidable would be quite an understatement. They look, in layman's terms, like they're willing and able to mess your day/week/life right up. You can see for yourself in the full video, so why don't you go take a gander?

Continue reading Maelforge and Laethys soar into action in RIFT's latest Infernal Dawn trailer

MassivelyMaelforge and Laethys soar into action in RIFT's latest Infernal Dawn trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeondungeonsfantasyinfernal-dawninstanceinstanceslaethysmaelforgepatch-1.8raidraidsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telaratrailertrailerstriontrion-worldsvideovideosWed, 04 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion reveals Laethys lore from forthcoming Infernal Dawn patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/trion-reveals-laethys-lore-from-forthcoming-infernal-dawn-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/trion-reveals-laethys-lore-from-forthcoming-infernal-dawn-patch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/03/trion-reveals-laethys-lore-from-forthcoming-infernal-dawn-patch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

RIFT - Laethys raid
Last night we showed you some concept art from the Infernal Dawn raid coming with RIFT's 1.8 patch. Today Trion Worlds has released a new lore snippet that gives us a little background on Laethys, a dragon from the Plane of Earth and the primary challenge that players will face when the new content goes live.

As it turns out, Laethys was the power behind the throne of a sprawling Ogre kingdom, and when her charges had bled their lands dry of wealth and riches, Laethys destroyed it and spirited them away to serve as her minions on the Plane of Earth. It's quite a touching story, complete with "child-skin books" and the decline of a great civilization. Click past the cut to read it in full, and look for RIFT's 1.8 patch "later this month."

[Source: Trion press release]

Continue reading Trion reveals Laethys lore from forthcoming Infernal Dawn patch

MassivelyTrion reveals Laethys lore from forthcoming Infernal Dawn patch originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasyinfernal-dawnlaethysloreriftrift-1.8rift-infernal-dawnrift-literift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldsTue, 03 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take a peek at RIFT's shiny Infernal Dawn concept art]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/take-a-peek-at-rifts-shiny-infernal-dawn-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/take-a-peek-at-rifts-shiny-infernal-dawn-concept-art/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/take-a-peek-at-rifts-shiny-infernal-dawn-concept-art/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Concept Art -- RIFT
RIFT players have been waiting on pins and needles for the upcoming patch 1.8, which will bring a brand-new raid known as Infernal Dawn to the world of Telara. Unfortunately, they're going to have to wait just a bit longer. Trion Worlds, in hopes of making the wait more (un)bearable, has released a new blog post on the official site that shines a spotlight on the art behind the Infernal Dawn instance.

This raid will pit players up against one of the biggest bads in the world: Maelforge the Flame Sire. It's kind of a big deal, ladies and gents. So it's only fitting that the concept art reflects that, and boy does it ever. I mean, look up there. Do you see that bow? Holy crap, that's a badass bow. To see what other badassery awaits you in Infernal Dawn, just go check out the official post.

MassivelyTake a peek at RIFT's shiny Infernal Dawn concept art originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artconcept-artfantasyholy-crap-that-bow-is-badassinfernal-dawnmaelforgepatch-1.8riftrift-literift-planes-of-telaratriontrion-worldsMon, 02 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously On MVTV: The week of March 24th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-24th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-24th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/01/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-24th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Ah, spring is in the air. You know what that means! That means that we get to sit inside, away from all of the sunshine and pollen, and watch others play through video games that we just don't have access to or haven't given a chance yet. This week, we worked hard to bring you some more of our digital adventures and got some of our biggest viewership numbers ever! Remember, if you come across a game we haven't covered yet or want to see a certain title covered, take the time to tell us. Give us the website, why we should look at it, and any other information you think we need to know, and you just might see it live on MVTV!

First Blake jumped into Global Agenda for his Lunchtime Livecast; then Richie took some time to try out the Mists of Pandaria beta for World of Warcraft. Adventure Mike explored some content in Final Fantasy XIV, while plain old Mike burned some space dust in EVE Online and cast many spells in RIFT. I decided to look at Nadirim because it's been a while and gave the Rise and Shiny treatment to Remanum.

Be sure to bookmark our livestream MV Guide, a sort of TV Guide for our livestreams. That way you can blame only yourself when you miss one of our awesome streams!

Continue reading Previously On MVTV: The week of March 24th

MassivelyPreviously On MVTV: The week of March 24th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanBlizzardccpeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playftpLiveStreamLiveStreamingmists-of-pandarianadirimpreviously-on-mv-tvremanumriftSquare-Enixtravian-gamestriontwitchtwitch-tvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 01 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT developers answer a new round of community questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/rift-developers-answer-a-new-round-of-community-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/rift-developers-answer-a-new-round-of-community-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/rift-developers-answer-a-new-round-of-community-questions/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

This was going to be filled with fire-related puns, but I lost the popular vote on that.
There are a lot of questions within the RIFT community, questions the development team seeks to answer with a new set of responses to community inquiries. Some of the answers are a bit on the negative side; there are no plans to expand the game's lore into novels, for instance. There are also no plans to add in arena-style combat or the option of visible cloaks, with the developers feeling that the former makes the game seem less massive and the latter has a detrimental impact on game performance.

That doesn't mean it's all bad news, however. The developers are looking into more ways to allow cross-faction interaction beyond the mercenary PvP system. There's also some talk about the next big raid and player feedback, which according to the answers is largely positive. There are also plans for more Souls in the future, which should provide RIFT players with even more options to custom-build a character.

[Update: Trion contacted us to clarify the cloak question. They say that cloaks aren't completely off-the-table, they're just not focusing on them right now. There was even a hint that cloaks will be a definite future addition to RIFT.]

MassivelyRIFT developers answer a new round of community questions originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiesarenaarenascapescloakscross-factionfactionsfantasypowersq-and-aquestions-and-answersriftrift-literift-planes-of-telaraskillssoulsspecstriontrion-worldsThu, 29 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: A carnival recap and a war on the horizon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/enter-at-your-own-rift-a-carnival-recap-and-a-war-on-the-horizo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/enter-at-your-own-rift-a-carnival-recap-and-a-war-on-the-horizo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/enter-at-your-own-rift-a-carnival-recap-and-a-war-on-the-horizo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Rift Carnival
Over the past few weeks, RIFT has been celebrating its first birthday with the Carnival of the Ascended. It started off pleasantly enough, with games, prizes, turducken, and fireworks. But recently, some of the revelers got a little too rowdy, and players had to help subdue drunk and disorderly guests. Now, the event has entered its fourth phase, and the two sides have begun to attack rival outposts that have been set up along parade routes. If you haven't had a chance to check out the Carnival of the Ascended, now is a perfect time. In this week's Enter at Your Own Rift, I'll highlight the carnival as it prepares to pack up and leave and peek at what's in store for Telara as this world event wraps up.

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: A carnival recap and a war on the horizon

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: A carnival recap and a war on the horizon originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carnival-of-the-ascendeddeep-fried-butterenter-at-your-own-riftfantasyfeaturedfishingmaelforgeopinionphase-4riftrift-carnivalrift-planes-of-telaratelaratriontrion-worldsupdate-1.8war-of-the-wantonWed, 28 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 194: Bookah bookah!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/massively-speaking-episode-194-bookah-bookah/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/massively-speaking-episode-194-bookah-bookah/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/massively-speaking-episode-194-bookah-bookah/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Vanguard
Massively Speaking Episode 194 welcomes aboard resident Star Trek Online expert Terilynn Shull to talk about Tribbles and bits and why Star Trek doesn't have more "The Fly" incidents involving the transporter and local flora or fauna. Captain Archer would have been vastly improved by beaming him into a badger.

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

Get the podcast:
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 194: Bookah bookah!

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 194: Bookah bookah! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbrantbrianna-royceccpccp-gamesend-of-nationseonf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivegothicguild-wars-2gw2horrorhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmmortsncsoftopinionpetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespodcastpodcastingpodcastsromrtsrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsandboxsci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentsupernaturaltaboreatelontriontrion-worldsvampirevampiresvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgwarwhite-wolfwodworld-of-darknessTue, 27 Mar 2012 13:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 194Massively.com Staff01:05:44podcasts<![CDATA[Previously On MVTV: The week of March 17th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-17th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-17th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/25/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-march-17th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
Ah, livestreaming: the greatest thing we do here at Massively. Well, in my opinion at least. Playing video games live for others to watch is not just about virtual glory or showing off just how tough our rigs are (Jeremy wins, anyway), but they can act as instructional guides, introductions to new games, and special glimpses of content that has never before been seen. It's sort of a sad fact that some of these livestreams can do the work of entire columns. Pictures might be worth a thousand words, but animated pictures are worth much more.

This week we have a lot of variety as well as some old favorites for you. Be sure to check out and bookmark our MVTV Guide so that you know what is coming up and when to set your alarm clock. Once you're in the chat room, you can ask questions, point out errors (we love that), and jump into the game with the streamers!

In this week's roundup, Blake starts off with some Star Wars: The Old Republic, and Richie follows up with a bit of Guild Wars action. Next we have Mike returning to EVE Online and then popping into RIFT for some more exploration of the initial free 20 levels. I then take the time to add some animations to my otherwise-bland character in Second Life and then show off a bit of Parallel Kingdom, a browser-based MMO that is layered on top of the real-world map! Jeremy rounds things out with more Atlantica Online, showing off the Tactical Battle System that acts a lot like a boardgame within the game.

Continue reading Previously On MVTV: The week of March 17th

MassivelyPreviously On MVTV: The week of March 17th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarena-nearenanavatarbiowareccpeve-onfeaturedguild-warguild-wars-2lindenlinden-lablivelivestreamlivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmv-tvmvtvparallel-kingdomperblueriftround-uproundupsecond-lifestar-warsstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamswtortriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideovideosSun, 25 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A tour of the twisted mind of RIFT's Maelforge the Flame Sire]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/trion-worlds-takes-you-on-a-tour-of-the-twisted-mind-of-maelforg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/trion-worlds-takes-you-on-a-tour-of-the-twisted-mind-of-maelforg/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/trion-worlds-takes-you-on-a-tour-of-the-twisted-mind-of-maelforg/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

This is what crazy looks like
RIFT players are only a short time away from being able to delve into the depths of the Infernal Dawn raid, where they will be able to confront one of the most destructive of the dragon-gods, Maelforge the Flame Sire. To prepare players to face off against the great fire dragon of the Blood Storm, Trion Worlds has released a new lore snippet that reveals his history, his motivations...

Oh, and the fact that he's absolutely, positively batshit insane. We're talking burn-people-to-death-then-resurrect-them-and-burn-them-again insane. Seriously guys, we can't stress this enough. But hey, if you still wanna go up against a guy who devours worlds and murders gods for funsies, be our guests. Just don't say we didn't warn you. While you attempt to justify the madness of actually trying to kill such a beast, click on past the cut and check out the full lore piece.

Continue reading A tour of the twisted mind of RIFT's Maelforge the Flame Sire

MassivelyA tour of the twisted mind of RIFT's Maelforge the Flame Sire originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-stormfantasyinfernal-dawnloremaelforgemaelforge-the-flame-sireriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarathe-blood-stormtriontrion-worldsThu, 22 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[End of Nations closed beta to start in spring, open beta in summer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/end-of-nations-closed-beta-to-start-in-spring-open-beta-in-summ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/end-of-nations-closed-beta-to-start-in-spring-open-beta-in-summ/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/end-of-nations-closed-beta-to-start-in-spring-open-beta-in-summ/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Replace tyranny with your own brand of tyranny!
If you're a fan of the underrepresented MMORTS genre, you've likely been waiting for news from Trion Worlds regarding the upcoming End of Nations. That makes today quite a good day for you because the team behind the game has just revealed the plan of attack for the game from this moment forward. Beta testing is barreling toward potential players (who are encouraged to register for an upcoming slot), with the game opening up sometime in the spring.

Not in the mood to wait for a closed beta slot? Hoping for one but not trusting your luck? That's all right -- open beta is set to start in the summer, giving everyone a chance to get in on the large-scale persistent tactical battles. Past that, players can expect the game to launch completely free-to-play, most likely sometime in the fall. The announcement video just past the cut also promises that players can look forward to a lot more in the way of news updates, something that should help contribute to the overall good feeling of any MMORTS fans.

[Source: Trion Worlds press release]

Continue reading End of Nations closed beta to start in spring, open beta in summer

MassivelyEnd of Nations closed beta to start in spring, open beta in summer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-testingbetabeta-testingend-of-nationseonf2pfree-to-playmmortsnewspetroglyphpetroglyph-gamespreviewrtssci-fitestingtrailertriontrion-worldsvideowarWed, 21 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[RIFT 1.8: Guild recruitment system preview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/rift-1-8-guild-recruitment-system-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/rift-1-8-guild-recruitment-system-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/rift-1-8-guild-recruitment-system-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT
RIFT's upcoming 1.8 patch will come in handy for players still caught in the search for a guild to call home, thanks to the guild recruitment system. Guild leaders will be able to (but don't have to) post listings to try to attract more players to their guilds. These listings can be customized with such information as the guild's category (RP, hardcore, PvP, dungeons, raiding, and more), the sort of roles that need to be filled (tank, heal, damage, and support), character level, and play schedule. There's also a description field that'll allow leaders to give a more in-depth description of guild services and outlook.

Players will access the guild finder through their social menu and be able to sort through guilds by roles, availability, guild size, and category. They'll then see all posted information and be able to decide which guild they think is a good fit for them. A message button in the finder screen will allow players to contact guild leaders, and thus shall many happy matches be made.

MassivelyRIFT 1.8: Guild recruitment system preview originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasyguild-recruitment-systemguild-searchguildspatchPatch1.8riftrift-1.8rift-literift-planes-of-telaraRift1.8triontrion-worldsupdateTue, 20 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: Gooey GUI]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/hyperspace-beacon-gooey-gui/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/hyperspace-beacon-gooey-gui/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/hyperspace-beacon-gooey-gui/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Gooey GUI
As far back as my interview with Blaine Christine at PAX 2010, I have been concerned with the user interface of Star Wars: The Old Republic. Although the question did make it into that article way back when, I did ask him about the UI because at that time, it was mostly black and rather clunky. We knew that incarnation would not be the final product. Animations were being touted as innovative at the time; I had asked about the UI's drawing the player's attention to the center of the screen because that's where the action was happening. Of course, he answered that the ultimate goal with the UI was to enhance the player's overall experience. That's what all UIs should do, right?

One the sticking-points during my beta impressions centered around my having to stare at my UI as I waited for cooldowns. I know that it's not a new thing for MMOs. In fact, nearly every MMO I can think of has some sort of abilities that require cooldown. Generally speaking, I am OK with having to look at the UI for those cooldowns. However, the positioning of SWTOR's UI really drew my attention away from what was happening on the main part of the screen.

Exactly three months after release, I have become comfortable with how the Star Wars whack-a-mole works, but with the changes in Update 1.2, I can dream of something better...

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Gooey GUI

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Gooey GUI originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcustom-uieaelectronic-artsEmmanuel-LusinchifantasyfeaturedGUIhyperspace-beaconlucasartsopinionriftrift-planes-of-telarasci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictortriontrion-worldsUIupdate-1.2user-interfacevideovideoswarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 20 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: Blacklight release, Defiance, and (hopefully) a DUST livestream]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/the-firing-line-blacklight-release-defiance-and-hopefully-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/the-firing-line-blacklight-release-defiance-and-hopefully-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/the-firing-line-blacklight-release-defiance-and-hopefully-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - news roundup edition
Welcome back to The Firing Line, shooter fans. I'm still recovering from Sony Online Entertainment's PlanetSide 2 demo last week (as well as CCP's reveals regarding DUST 514 gameplay footage and impending beta dates).

Life goes on, though, and there are plenty of interesting tidbits to talk about with regard to our favorite genre. Won't you join me after the break for a recap?

Continue reading The Firing Line: Blacklight release, Defiance, and (hopefully) a DUST livestream

MassivelyThe Firing Line: Blacklight release, Defiance, and (hopefully) a DUST livestream originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blacklightblacklight-retributiondefiancedustdust-514eveeve-fanfest-2012eve-onlinef2pfanfest-2012fanfest-2012-dustfanfest-livestreamfeaturedfiring-linefpsfree-to-playmmo-shootermmofpsnew-edenonline-shooteropinionperfect-world-entertainmentpvppweroundupshootershooter-roundupsyfysyfy-channelsyfy-defiancetflthe-firing-linethird-person-shootertpstriontrion-defianceFri, 16 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST