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[Flyff getting revamped with Flyff Gold]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/flyff-getting-revamped-with-flyff-gold/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/flyff-getting-revamped-with-flyff-gold/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/flyff-getting-revamped-with-flyff-gold/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Flyff
The world of gPotato's long-running free-to-play MMO Flyff is about to change in a big way. In a press release today, the studio announced the upcoming July launch of Flyff Gold, which will add a whole slew of features and revamps, many of which have been requested by the community. According to the press release, players can look forward to "a fresh new look and dynamic interface," as well as features such as "achievements redeemable for item shop goodies" and a "set-and-forget consignment marketplace for easy trading," plus much more.

To celebrate the update's imminent release, gPotato is beginning "game-wide log-in and level-up events" that will reward players for, as the name would imply, logging in and leveling up. These events make for the perfect time for new players to jump into the game and get some shiny loot in preparation for the Flyff Gold release. For more details on the game's upcoming additions, you can go check out Flyff Gold's teaser site.

[Source: gPotato press release]

MassivelyFlyff getting revamped with Flyff Gold originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consignment-shopconsignment-shopsf2pfly-for-funflyffflyff-goldfree-to-playgpotatoredeemable-achievementsrevampui-revampupdateupdatesFri, 25 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[All Points Bulletin: Reloaded offers free one-day premium membership with patch 1.8]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/all-points-bulletin-reloaded-offers-free-one-day-premium-member/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/all-points-bulletin-reloaded-offers-free-one-day-premium-member/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/all-points-bulletin-reloaded-offers-free-one-day-premium-member/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- All Points Bulletin: Reloaded
All Points Bulletin: Reloaded's patch 1.8 is now live, and GamersFirst is offering a special deal for players who want to jump in and experience some cops-and-robbers mayhem. Any APB players who log in within the next seven days will find a free one-day premium membership code on their accounts. These codes can be redeemed for, as the name would suggest, one free day of premium membership, which grants bonuses such as a 20% discount on the new cash-shop items.

The one-day premium bonus makes this the perfect time for veteran and new players alike to jump into San Paro and experience all of the new features of 1.8 and the recently released patch 1.7, each of which introduced a wealth of content such as fight club challenges, new weapon mods and skins, and more. To get in on the action for yourself, head on over to the game's official site.

MassivelyAll Points Bulletin: Reloaded offers free one-day premium membership with patch 1.8 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 24 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrcrimef2pfree-to-playg1gamersfirstone-day-premiumone-day-premium-membershippatchpatch-1.8patchespremiumpremium-membershippromotionpvpupdateupdatesThu, 24 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios appears to be getting no new help]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-appears-to-be-getting-no-new-help/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-appears-to-be-getting-no-new-help/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/38-studios-appears-to-be-getting-no-new-help/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Curt Schilling
The bad news continues to accumulate for Rhode Island developer 38 Studios. According to Rhode Island governor Lincoln Chafee, the company has received a grand total of no outside investment. It also has not received any of the tax credits that it requested, leaving the studio still deep in the hole. Chafee has stated that he is doing everything in his power to prevent the studio's closure.

Staff members are also leaving the company at an alarming rate, with CEO Jen MacLean and senior VP of product development John Blakely both confirming their departures from the company. The hiring of both individuals was trumpeted as a mark of success as recently as March of this year, and Blakely was still employed by 38 Studios as recently as Monday evening. There's even talk of the company's health insurance running out. None of this news suggests that Curt Schilling's company will make a quick turnaround -- if indeed it makes a turnaround at all.

Massively38 Studios appears to be getting no new help originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studioscurt-schillingfinancefinancesindustryindustry-turnoverjen-macleanjohn-blakelylayoffslegalmmo-industrynewspotential-shutdownproject-copernicusupdatesWed, 23 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultima Online rolling out a new installment of the Awakening]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/ultima-online-rolling-out-a-new-installment-of-the-awakening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/ultima-online-rolling-out-a-new-installment-of-the-awakening/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/21/ultima-online-rolling-out-a-new-installment-of-the-awakening/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In some cases, sleep is better than awakening. Like waking up to a fight against a giant squid monster.
Ultima Online is preparing a continuation of the game's latest global arc with tomorrow's patch. Act VI of The Awakening asks players to assist in crafting a number of alchemical preparations, with a number of rewards available for players who actively try to crack the puzzle of the correct ingredients. More information will be available from the official site as well as an in-game NPC. If you need more time to prepare, don't worry -- the quest is going active in July and lasting until mid-August.

If you're not willing to wait, the new patch also sees a revamp of the Covetous Dungeon. The first floor remains largely unchanged, but levels two and three both feature a new system for the game in which players accumulate points for defeating monsters that can later be turned in for new rewards. Last but not least, vanilla plants have been added to the game's gardening system, giving players another new thing to explore when not fighting monsters or preparing for the next part of The Awakening.

MassivelyUltima Online rolling out a new installment of the Awakening originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-mmodungeon-revampsdungeonseaelectronic-artsfantasygame-mechanicsglobal-arclord-britishmythicmythic-entertainmentnew-contentnew-patchnewspatchpatch-notespatchesrevampsthe-awakeningultimaultima onlineuouo-awakeningupdatesMon, 21 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online shows off the new Shield weapon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/dc-universe-online-shows-off-the-new-shield-weapon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/dc-universe-online-shows-off-the-new-shield-weapon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/dc-universe-online-shows-off-the-new-shield-weapon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Based off of a Kirby character who was based off of another Kirby character owned by a competing company.
Shields generally aren't thought of as a weapon; they're usually seen as the exact opposite of a weapon. But in the superheroic milieu, all that changes. A shield is something to be used offensively, and in DC Universe Online's next major update, players will begin wielding the shield for their own superheroic (or villainous) capers. A recent interview with creative director Jens Andersen discusses the intended role of the shield in combat.

Andersen explains that while the new weapon comes along in a very PvP-centered update, it's not meant to be used specifically for PvP; the team just wants to have something new for players to enjoy no matter what. In play, shields are similar to a staff weapon, but unlike most other weapons, the shield can continue to build a combo after a heavy strike by moving back to light strikes. That should make the shield a very aggressive option -- perhaps odd for something that's not generally thought of as a weapon.

MassivelyDC Universe Online shows off the new Shield weapon originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodlcf2pfree-to-playinterviewnew-abilitiesnew-contentnew-weaponspatchesplaystation-3playstation3ps3shieldshieldssoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroesthe-last-laughupdatesweaponweaponsThu, 17 May 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit Tales launching Crisis of Jade Forest next week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Diabeetus.
It's really hard to imagine anything in the saccharine world of Spirit Tales being properly termed a crisis, but the game's newest update is aiming in that direction. The Crisis of Jade Forest goes live on May 23rd, giving players a chance to tackle an extra-difficult version of the normal Jade Forest area with extra boss-enriched goodness. Successful players have plenty of motivation, however, as the reward for completion involves a chest that could contain items normally reserved for the game's item mall.

Groups of up to five players can enter the battle once per day, which fills the area with deadly monsters and 10 special bosses. Successfully defeating all of these bosses will grant the chance to earn both rewards that would normally cost real money as well as other little trinkets. it's also meant to be a great way to level up, so if you're already in the open beta, you may want to consider a look at the dungeon.

MassivelySpirit Tales launching Crisis of Jade Forest next week originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animedungeondungeon-contentf2pfree-to-playkoramgamekoramgame-ltdmicrotransactionsnew-contentpatchespreviewsspecial-contentspirit-talesupdatesThu, 17 May 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ragnarok Online update introduces the town of Port Malaya]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/ragnarok-online-update-introduces-the-town-of-port-malaya/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/ragnarok-online-update-introduces-the-town-of-port-malaya/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/ragnarok-online-update-introduces-the-town-of-port-malaya/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Port Malaya banner
It's been over a year since we heard anything from Gravity Interactive's long-running title Ragnarok Online, but today, the silence has been broken. The studio has announced the game's newest content update, which will allow players to visit the paradisiacal Port Malaya, where "the water's always warm and the monsters are always dangerous."

Players level 100 and up will find plenty to do in the new port town, such as "dozens of new quests, including an entire suite of daily tasks to perform." New dungeons also await in Port Malaya, and with new dungeons comes new gear and a new tattoo system that will grant players permanent buffs. Players will need all the power they can get to square off against the myriad new MVP Monsters that inhabit the wilds of Port Malaya. More details on the update can be found on Ragnarok Online's official site, so head on over there and set sail for Port Malaya.

[Source: Gravity Interactive press release]

MassivelyRagnarok Online update introduces the town of Port Malaya originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgravitygravity-interactivepatchpatchesport-malayaragnarokragnarok-onlineroupdateupdatesWed, 16 May 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: A look forward to Final Fantasy XIV pets]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-mog-log-a-look-forward-to-final-fantasy-xiv-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-mog-log-a-look-forward-to-final-fantasy-xiv-pets/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/12/the-mog-log-a-look-forward-to-final-fantasy-xiv-pets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Pet classes and I have an odd relationship. I don't generally like them, but I like having them there, and when they're done right, I'm very fond of the option. Final Fantasy XIV currently has a grand total of none of them; we have not even a summoner or beastmaster to call our own, but we've been told that this is all changing in version 2.0. And with November just half a year away, it's time to start thinking about what form these pets are going to take.

Of course, this isn't virgin territory for the game series. Final Fantasy XI featured four different pet classes, which have had differing levels of success over time. And even though Final Fantasy XIV isn't meant to be Final Fantasy XI in a new skin, the game can certainly take some inspiration from its predecessor even while forging a unique legacy. And hey, we've got at least three of the four pets from the previous game in Eorzea at this point. So let's talk about the past set of pets, where we are in the present game, and how those systems might make it into the main game.

Continue reading The Mog Log: A look forward to Final Fantasy XIV pets

MassivelyThe Mog Log: A look forward to Final Fantasy XIV pets originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abilitiescoming-updatesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-version-2.0final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfinal-fantasy-xiv-2.0mog-logopinionpet-classespetssquaresquare-enixsquenixsuggestionsthe-mog-logupdatesversion-2.0Sat, 12 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic answers questions on companions and modifications]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-questions-on-companions-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-questions-on-companions-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-questions-on-companions-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Could you guys be droids instead? I'd rather have droids.
Companions are one of the main features of Star Wars: The Old Republic, but they're also sometimes very limiting. Depending on your class and spec, you can find yourself with only one or two companions with useful abilities. But that's partly by design; according to the latest community Q&A, the distinctiveness of companions is both a result of their abilities and their personalities. The team has no plans for making companions more interchangeable, at least for the moment.

If you were hoping for better news, don't fret, as the other answers are a fair bit more positive. The technical hurdles preventing some classes from having a modifiable offhand are being looked into, and the answers also delve into the details of adding a new augment slot to existing modifiable items. There's also a discussion of the different rates of gear acquisition for players on the PvE and PvP progress tracks, along with a variety of other answers for players of several stripes.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic answers questions on companions and modifications originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecommunity-q-and-aeaelectronic-artsgame-mechanicslucasartsmodifiable-itemsmodificationsnewspatchesq-and-aquestions-and-answerssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorsystemsthe-old-republictorupdatesFri, 11 May 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online overhauls factional warfare for cleaner systems and bigger consequences]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/eve-online-overhauls-factional-warfare-for-cleaner-systems-and-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/eve-online-overhauls-factional-warfare-for-cleaner-systems-and-b/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/eve-online-overhauls-factional-warfare-for-cleaner-systems-and-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's more fun to read about this stuff than... um... well, I guess playing it still looks like reading about it.
Factional warfare isn't a part of EVE Online you hear about very often, and according to the latest design blog, that's partly because the system itself was a mess. The developers are hard at work overhauling the warfare system so that it will be easier to understand, will be more intuitive to use, and will have more substantial bonuses and penalties for factions actively participating in the war. The usability changes are small but significant, mostly centering around consolidating the system's important details under a unified naming schematic.

Turnaround time for system control is being lengthened to roughly 30 hours, but the penalties for enemy factions are also becoming more severe. Enemy factions cannot dock at stations in occupied systems, and the faction in control will be able to spend Loyalty Points to gain special upgrades so long as the system is controlled. If you like going to war in your internet spaceship but aren't really a fan of the wild frontier devoid of security, it might be worth taking a look at the newest design entry.

MassivelyEVE Online overhauls factional warfare for cleaner systems and bigger consequences originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesdeveloper-blogdeveloper-diarieseveeve-onlinefactional-warfaregame-mechanicsinternet-spaceshipssandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineupdateswarfareWed, 09 May 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth's May State of the Game letter showcases new Foothills PvP zone]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/fallen-earths-may-state-of-the-game-letter-showcases-new-foothi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/fallen-earths-may-state-of-the-game-letter-showcases-new-foothi/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/fallen-earths-may-state-of-the-game-letter-showcases-new-foothi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Fallen Earth
Roamers of Fallen Earth's post-apocalyptic Grand Canyon province have long been awaiting the final release of the game's Global Territory Control update. Thankfully, the wait is almost over. But meanwhile, today's GamersFirst dev blog post aims to shed some light on some of the latest additions to the system.

The spotlight of the post is set on the new PvP conflict area known as The Foothills. The zone is an abandoned settlement situated between Los Alamos and Citadel that "never quite made it." As a result, the various factions of Fallen Earth have taken to fighting for control of the area in order to further solidify their foothold in the region. The Global Territory Control patch is set to go live next Wednesday, so keep an eye on the official dev blog for more details as the update gets closer to launch.

MassivelyFallen Earth's May State of the Game letter showcases new Foothills PvP zone originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfallen-earthfefree-to-playg1gamersfirstglobal-territory-controlgtcpatchpatchesplayer-vs-playerpost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpsandboxsci-fithe-foothillsupdateupdateswastelandsTue, 08 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Repopulation's end-of-April update includes genetic engineering, bug fixes, and lore updates]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/the-repopulations-end-of-april-update-includes-genetic-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/the-repopulations-end-of-april-update-includes-genetic-engineer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/the-repopulations-end-of-april-update-includes-genetic-engineer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- The Repopulation
Last month, we got our first look at the gameplay of Above and Beyond Technologies' upcoming sandbox title, The Repopulation. Today, the studio released its end-of-April 2012 update notes for the game, giving players a look at the ongoing tweaks and changes being made as Above and Beyond slowly ramps up to the beta stage.

For the most part, the notes are your standard patch note fare: bug fixes, quality-of-life improvements, some UI tweaks, and so forth. But there are a couple of gems that stand out among the rest. For instance, players with the Genetic Engineering skill can do some gene-splicing to create their own unique pets. Currently there are 40 different hybrid and pure-species pets that can be genetically engineered, so the mad scientists in the crowd should have many options when it comes to playing God. The site's lore and bestiary sections have also been updated for the lore junkies out there. The full, rather expansive April update notes can be found on The Repopulation's official site, so if you're interested in all of the minutiae, just head on over there and check it out.

[Thanks to Halldorr for the tip!]

MassivelyThe Repopulation's end-of-April update includes genetic engineering, bug fixes, and lore updates originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>above-and-beyondabove-and-beyond-technologiesaprilapril-2012bestiarygenetic-engineeringlorenotespatch-notesrepopulationsandboxsci-fithe-repopulationupdateupdate-notesupdatesTue, 08 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 invites players into the mythical realm of Avalon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/wizard101-invites-players-into-the-mythical-realm-of-avalon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/wizard101-invites-players-into-the-mythical-realm-of-avalon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/wizard101-invites-players-into-the-mythical-realm-of-avalon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wiz101 Avalon
Wizard101 players have been all over, from the lush jungles of Zafaria to the pyramids of Krokotopia, but as of today there's a whole new land for them to explore: the mystical land of Avalon. Avalon, as the name implies, is a land based in Arthurian legend, and it also happens to be the former home of Ravenwood's headmaster, Merle Ambrose.

But all is not well in the usually idyllic Avalon. The nefarious Umbra Queen Morganthe and her minions are causing trouble, and it's up to the players to find and recover the legendary blade of King Artorius, the Sword of Kings, and put a stop to Morganthe's mayhem. Players who are level 70 or above and who have completed the quest Through Glass, Darkly can find their way to Avalon by speaking to Merle Ambrose, who will send them on a quest to the new zone. For the full details on the new update, magick your way on over to the Wizard101 official site.

MassivelyWizard101 invites players into the mythical realm of Avalon originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arthurianavalonf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentpatchpatchessword-of-kingsupdateupdateswizard101zonezonesWed, 02 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online's patch 3.0.2 bringing mentor system, new Astral space]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/allods-onlines-patch-3-0-1-bringing-mentor-system-new-astral-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/allods-onlines-patch-3-0-1-bringing-mentor-system-new-astral-s/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/allods-onlines-patch-3-0-1-bringing-mentor-system-new-astral-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Allods Online
Allods Online's astral space is about to get just a little bit bigger thanks to the game's recently announced patch 3.0.2. The title's publisher, gPotato, announced today that the game's May content update will be bringing "a host of fixes and tweaks alongside some significant new features, including a new mentoring system and a new sector of astral space dedicated to free-for-all treasure hunting."

The game's mentoring system allows experienced, high-level players to impart their wisdom and knowledge upon new characters of the same faction and archetype. The system is managed entirely through the game's mentor interface, which also helps to match prospective apprentices with a mentor. Mentors can receive a number of rewards, including gold and marks of diligence, depending on the amount of time the mentor spends with his apprentice. The update is also unveiling a new area of astral space wherein players will compete in a free-for-all battle for randomly spawning treasure, but be warned: The more players are in the zone, the higher the chance that a demon will show up to try to wreck your day. Players will have a limited amount of time to contend with opposing players and marauding demons and to gather the most loot possible before time's up.

To get a sneak peek at these shiny new features, just head on past the cut and have a look at the update's official trailer.

[Source: gPotato press release]

Continue reading Allods Online's patch 3.0.2 bringing mentor system, new Astral space

MassivelyAllods Online's patch 3.0.2 bringing mentor system, new Astral space originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlineastralastral-spaceastrum-nivalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatomentormentor-systemmentoringmentoring-systemmentorspatchpatchestrailertrailersupdateupdatesvideovideosMon, 30 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Blindsided by FFXIV's patch 1.22]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-mog-log-blindsided-by-ffxivs-patch-1-22/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-mog-log-blindsided-by-ffxivs-patch-1-22/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/the-mog-log-blindsided-by-ffxivs-patch-1-22/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
I had different plans for this week's column until I realized that Final Fantasy XIV's patch 1.22 had sneaked up on me like the monster in a slasher film, except instead of stabbing me and laughing, it just brought a bunch of new content, so the metaphor doesn't really work. I'm not sure exactly how I missed the patch's coming so quickly, but I'm happy to see it's finally on the live servers.

Of course, in a lot of ways, this patch is smaller than its predecessors, though not in terms of content, obviously. No, it's a smaller patch by virtue of the fact that it's a pure content patch. New systems are in short supply, but new things to do are in abundance. It's a focus patch, in other words. Recent patches have vehemently focused on trimming up the mechanics and making sure that the game plays nicely with all sorts of content; this patch focuses instead on what you can do with all of your shiny abilities and classes and so forth. And aside from a couple of missed opportunities, it succeeds at that beautifully.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Blindsided by FFXIV's patch 1.22

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Blindsided by FFXIV's patch 1.22 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.22final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgrand-companieshamlet-defensemog-logopinionpatchpatchessquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logupdatesSat, 28 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic answers a new set of community questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-a-new-set-of-community-quest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-a-new-set-of-community-quest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-a-new-set-of-community-quest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

No, rakghouls are probably not one of the new playable races.
The Legacy update is live, the Rakghoul Plague is contained for the time being, and Star Wars: The Old Republic fans are eager for more content and more news. The latest set of community questions and answers doesn't really deliver any new content, but it does deliver tantalizing promises, such as the fact that players can expect to roster of playable races to expand this year. There are also promises of an overhaul to the Achievement system and more Legacy-wide rewards, potentially including datacrons.

Not all of the news is good, however, with dual spec confirmed to not be included in the the upcoming patch 1.3 (but hopefully in the following patch). There are also a few in-depth answers about crafting and the necessity of finding a crafter for optimal item modifications. Players can also expect to see future spontaneous world events, although the team doesn't want to precisely replicate the Rakghoul Plague with a new skin. Take a look at the full list of questions, and if you want something answered that isn't there, submit it for the next round.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic answers a new set of community questions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecraftcrafterscraftingdesigndevelopmenteaelectronic-artslucasartsq-and-aquestions-and-answerssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorswtor-patch-1.2swtor-patch-1.3the-old-republictorupdatesFri, 27 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Iris Online opens the Lost Temple of Atlantis]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/iris-online-opens-the-lost-temple-of-atlantis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/iris-online-opens-the-lost-temple-of-atlantis/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/iris-online-opens-the-lost-temple-of-atlantis/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Of course, it's not really all that lost any longer when you get right down to it...
Iris Online players are in for a treat today because it's patch day. And not just the small sort of patch with a bunch of bugfixes, either -- this is the big kind, the kind that opens up new areas and expands the level cap. In fact, it's exactly that kind, as today's update opens four new zones and the Lost Temple of Atlantis for player exploration. The temple is meant as the most challenging dungeon in the game and contains a variety of treasures for players braving its depths.

Beyond the temple, the new zones give players new chances to strike back and liberate the land from the Sahar, complete with new quests to enjoy. Those new quests will also help as players head for the new level cap of 75, but if that alone isn't enough, the development team is doubling all EXP and SXP rates until April 29th. Players can also earn special treasure boxes for a limited time, a little extra boost for enjoying the game's new content.

[Source: gPotato press release]

Gallery: Iris Online Screenshots

MassivelyIris Online opens the Lost Temple of Atlantis originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeonsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgalleriesgallerygpotatogypsyirisiris-onlinelevel-caplevelslost-temple-of-atlantisnew-dungeonsnew-questsnew-zonespatchpatchesquestsscreenshotscreenshotstarotupdateszonesThu, 26 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV launches patch 1.22]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-22/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-22/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/25/final-fantasy-xiv-launches-patch-1-22/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

A man with a plan. Also a sword.
Feel as if the last major Final Fantasy XIV patch just had too much to absorb at once? Well, you're going to be a bit stuck today if that's the case because patch 1.22 has just gone live and brought with it another host of improvements, updates, and changes. The good news is that this patch doesn't contain the same number of system changes as the previous patch, but that's because of the sheer amount of new content included.

The patch adds another four ranks to the Grand Companies, another set of quests, the new Garuda battle, the first of the hamlet defense points, and more besides. Players will also be able to obtain new items from crafting, gathering, and victory in the Garuda fight, and they'll be able to see the first hints of what will happen to the world as the era draws to a close. Servers are expected to be back online later tonight, and players will no doubt have plenty to explore once they can log in again.

[Thanks to Alex for the tip!]

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV launches patch 1.22 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesfantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.22final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-updatesmajor-patchesmajor-updatesnewspatchpatch-1.22patch-daypatchessquaresquare-enixupdatesWed, 25 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online streamlines the process of figuring out who's crippling your ship]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/eve-online-streamlines-the-process-of-figuring-out-whos-crippli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/eve-online-streamlines-the-process-of-figuring-out-whos-crippli/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/eve-online-streamlines-the-process-of-figuring-out-whos-crippli/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Still arguably a bit less than visceral combat.
If you're playing EVE Online, you are going to lose a ship sooner or later. It's as inevitable as the tides. Sometimes you'll be outnumbered and outgunned, and while that can be frustrating, there's no real shame in it. But when you're having your ship locked in place by an attacker you can't see and you don't actually know what's happening, that is a different matter. It's particularly infuriating, and it's something that the game's next update is aiming to fix.

Starting with the next patch, the new Effects Bar will show a quick overview of all the effects currently in place on your ship as well as the source of same. So if there are two people attacking you, an icon will pop up, and you'll be able to target and counterattack appropriately rather than fumble through more clumsy interface methods. If the blog entry explaining the system isn't clear enough for you, check out the short preview video just past the break.

Continue reading EVE Online streamlines the process of figuring out who's crippling your ship

MassivelyEVE Online streamlines the process of figuring out who's crippling your ship originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesescalationeveeve-onlinefunctionsgame-mechanicsgame-systemsinterfaceinternet-spaceshipssandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlinesystemsuiupdatesuser-interfacevideovideosWed, 18 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online alerts players to a new trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/champions-online-alerts-players-to-a-new-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/champions-online-alerts-players-to-a-new-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/champions-online-alerts-players-to-a-new-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

I'm getting an urgent alert. The Hot Pockets are almost done.
If you haven't played the content in the latest Champions Online update, you haven't been playing the game. After all, the update launched last Friday. But maybe you're a free player and you're still on the fence about whether or not the game is worth playing with all of the system overhauls and new mechanics. In the hopes of targeting that critical but indecisive user base, the development team has put together a new trailer for the On Alert update.

All right, so perhaps a trailer isn't the best place to show off detailed mechanical shifts in depth unless you really enjoy watching math. But it still shows off a bit of the new group challenges and the new Alert system, and the update's information hub can fill you in on the more numerical shifts. Check out the trailer just past the break, and if it sparks your interest, you can log into the game and start playing with the new systems now.

Continue reading Champions Online alerts players to a new trailer

MassivelyChampions Online alerts players to a new trailer originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsnew-mechanicsnew-systemsnewson-alertpatchpatchesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesuperherosuperheroestrailertrailersupdateupdatesvideovideosMon, 16 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What was the best patch ever?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-best-patch-ever/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-best-patch-ever/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/15/the-daily-grind-what-was-the-best-patch-ever/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

To boldly go where several patches have gone before in other games!
There are three responses to every patch released by every game, no matter what the patch does or doesn't contain. There will be people who decry the patch as something horrible, those who act indifferent, and those who enthusiastically gush about how wonderful it is. But there are some patches that stand out as being real game-changers, from Star Trek Online's enormous Season patches to the various content-and-system upgrades doled out regularly for World of Warcraft.

If you've been playing long enough, you can reflect on the patch history for your favorite game. What was the best patch that you can think of in terms of its individual impact? Was it one of the major overhauls introduced to Final Fantasy XIV? One of the story updates for Lord of the Rings Online? Or some of the large epilogues added to Guild Wars? What has your nod as the best patch ever, and why?

Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind!

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What was the best patch ever? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturedaily-grindgame-patchesgame-updatesnew-patchesopinionpatchpatch-contentpatch-daypatch-historypatchespatchingtdgthe-daily-grindupdatesSun, 15 Apr 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlaneShift releases patch 0.5.9]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/planeshift-releases-patch-0-5-9/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/planeshift-releases-patch-0-5-9/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/planeshift-releases-patch-0-5-9/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Still a better-looking game than the original EverQuest, and a better love story than Twilight.
Ever played an MMORPG and thought that you could do a better job making it than the developers? PlaneShift is more or less completely built around that idea. It's an open-source, community-developed game that's still not at full "release" status but does allow players and developers alike plenty of participation in the process. While the development cycle is slow by necessity, the game has just recently released its 0.5.9 patch, bringing with it a large variety of improvements and refinements for the engine and the game itself.

The game's art has received several sweeping overhauls; the biggest changes have been aimed at the game's engine in the form of fixing bugs and improving support for a variety of graphics cards. There are also updates to the game's AI scripting, allowing NPCs to act in a more organic and unified fashion. If you're an old hand at the game, the patch is no doubt worth checking out -- and if you've never heard of it, perhaps this is enough to pique your interest.

MassivelyPlaneShift releases patch 0.5.9 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 14 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codingengine-updatesf2pfree-to-playgame-updatesnewsopen-sourceopen-source-gamespatchpatchesplaneshiftupdatesSat, 14 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mog Log: Ain't what she used to be]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/the-mog-log-aint-what-she-used-to-be/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/the-mog-log-aint-what-she-used-to-be/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/14/the-mog-log-aint-what-she-used-to-be/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
Final Fantasy XIV has changed a lot since launch. That's kind of the thing you say about every game, but usually you can see most of the telltale signs of where the game had been. That's not quite the case with the huge, sweeping changes that Eorzea has undergone. You can see some of the comparisons, but a lot of mechanics have been widely overhauled and altered so that it barely even feels like the same game.

This, of course, is not stuff you catch as a casual observer. Heck, there are things I don't notice because I'm knee-deep in Final Fantasy XIV and have gotten more accustomed to the changed version over the new version. So I thought this would be a good week to try taking a step back and looking at all of the things that have changed in the game since launch... or at least the major points that you might not have caught.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Ain't what she used to be

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Ain't what she used to be originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 14 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changesconsoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsmog-logopinionpatchessquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logupdatesSat, 14 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The MMO Report: Big news edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-mmo-report-big-news-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-mmo-report-big-news-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/the-mmo-report-big-news-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

This is madness. Just madness.
The MMO Report has some big news this week, and no, it's not about the fact that it's secretly carrying your baby. Nor is it even tied to all of the various big news that the show has this week, and there is quite a bit of that. Obviously, there's the new patch for Star Wars: The Old Republic, and there's also the first in-game footage of both World of Darkness and Defiance, but those aren't the big reveal in the news.

So what is it? Well, while we'd normally promise that there's going to be a new episode next week from G4 and Massively, this week it's not quite so clear-cut. The show is going on a brief hiatus for reasons that we'll allow the show itself to explain. So hop on past the break for more MMO news, and tune in when the hiatus ends for another episode. You can keep checking back here forlornly, however. We won't hold it against you.

Continue reading The MMO Report: Big news edition

MassivelyThe MMO Report: Big news edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casey-schreinerdefiancehiatushumormmo-reportnewsopinionroundupstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-mmo-reportupdatesvideovideoswodworld-of-darknessThu, 12 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic's patch 1.2 goes live April 12th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/star-wars-the-old-republics-patch-1-2-going-live-april-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/star-wars-the-old-republics-patch-1-2-going-live-april-12th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/star-wars-the-old-republics-patch-1-2-going-live-april-12th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Screenshot -- Star Wars: The Old Republic
It's almost time for Star Wars: The Old Republic players to begin forging their legacies. BioWare announced today that the game's patch 1.2: Legacy update will be hitting the live servers this Thursday, April 12th, which will certainly come as welcome news to fans of the title.

In addition to the next steps of the game's Legacy system, which our own Larry Everett has covered previously, the patch will also be bringing a wealth of new content for PvE and PvP players alike. For the former crowd, BioWare is adding a new Flashpoint known as The Lost Island and the new Explosive Conflict Operation. Players in the latter camp will be able to get their player-vs.-player jollies in the new Novare Coast Warzone, which pits Empire against Republic in a capture-and-control gametype. And of course, players of all playstyles will finally be able to tweak and customize their UIs as it suits their playstyles. For the full details on the upcoming patch and its corresponding maintenance, just head on over to the official site.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic's patch 1.2 goes live April 12th originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsexplosive-conflictlegacylegacy-systemlucasartsmaintenancenovare-coastpatchpatch-1.2patchessci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorupdateupdatesTue, 10 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB: Reloaded dev blog introduces patch 1.7's new breed of contacts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/apb-reloaded-dev-blog-introduces-patch-1-7s-new-breed-of-conta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/apb-reloaded-dev-blog-introduces-patch-1-7s-new-breed-of-conta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/apb-reloaded-dev-blog-introduces-patch-1-7s-new-breed-of-conta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

What kind of parents name their kid DevilDog?
Criminals and Enforcers alike have plenty to look forward to in APB: Reloaded's upcoming patch 1.7.0, which has been given the name New Breeds Part One. The inspiration for this subtitle comes from the "new breed" of contacts being added to the game with the update, including the sociopathic Criminal Tiptoe (daughter of the Bloodrose Tyron Sennet) and former-military-sniper-turned-Enforcer DevilDog. These new contacts will provide players with a wealth of new progression options such as new weapons, weapon skins, modifications, shiny vehicles, and inventory space increases.

On top of all those goodies, New Breed Part One will also introduce Fight Club Challenges, which are weekly events that allow players to compete in a number of unique challenges in order to earn prizes ranging from APB$ to unique weapons and vehicles. Each challenge will require players to play a particular gametype on a particular map, and each "will have three [reward] tiers, with the third and second prizes being straight up requirements, and the top prize requiring you to be in the top X% of players that have taken part in the challenge." The first week's challenges, along with a list of new weapons and modifications, can be found on the game's official blog post for anyone who wants to get a leg-up on the competition, so get out there and wreak some havoc.

MassivelyAPB: Reloaded dev blog introduces patch 1.7's new breed of contacts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrchallengescrimef2pfight-clubfight-club-challengesfree-to-playg1gamersfirstnew-breed-part-onepatchpatch-1.7patchespvpupdateupdatesMon, 09 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest Ask Cryptic for Star Trek Online takes a look at the road ahead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/newest-ask-cryptic-for-star-trek-online-takes-a-look-at-the-road/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/newest-ask-cryptic-for-star-trek-online-takes-a-look-at-the-road/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/newest-ask-cryptic-for-star-trek-online-takes-a-look-at-the-road/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It should be more like classic Trek, where you have to jettison the warp core every three episodes and the holodeck regularly tries to kill everyone on board.
There's a great big galaxy out there in Star Trek Online, so much so that some things occasionally fall through the cracks. The latest installment of Ask Cryptic focuses on a few of these elements, like the Andorian ship and the addition of a playable Romulan faction. Neither of these elements is on the table for immediate inclusion, but both are in the pipe for future updates; the former is planned for sometime the next year, while the Romulans are on the more distant horizon.

Not everything comes down to a simple "not right now," however. The KDF, for instance, is slated to continue receiving new updates and additional features to bring the faction more in line with the Federation's content level. The development team is also hard at work trying to allow older ships to be retrofitted into higher-level content, letting players take classic designs into modern engagements. It's certainly not a question of whether the development team has a plan or not, just a matter of how soon all of these fabled upgrades will be implemented.

MassivelyNewest Ask Cryptic for Star Trek Online takes a look at the road ahead originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-crypticcrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfactionsfree-to-playnew-shipsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewspwesci-fishipsstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoupcoming-contentupdatesThu, 05 Apr 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online cuts the craft in favor of the mod scene]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/champions-online-cuts-the-craft-in-favor-of-the-mod-scene/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/champions-online-cuts-the-craft-in-favor-of-the-mod-scene/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/champions-online-cuts-the-craft-in-favor-of-the-mod-scene/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I'm going to use Fusion to fuse this arrowhead to your brainmeats.
Whether or not you're fond of Champions Online, you probably don't like the game's crafting system. Almost no one does, and apparently not even the developers have been terribly pleased with it. That's why the game is putting that system aside and replacing it with a new system. The Mod and Fusion system will work more along the lines of gear slotting as found in other MMOs. Certain gear comes with slots for Mods, and by combining Mods via Fusion, you can produce more powerful enhancements.

The old crafting skills, meanwhile, tie into the new method of fusing Mods by helping you create stronger Mods and harvest new ones. Extant crafters will also be integrated into the new system; all existing crafted benefits will stay in place (although new ones won't be available), and the crafting-specific travel powers and bags will be moved to other vendors. It's a pretty radical reinvention of the game's current dynamic, but it will hopefully make the game a bit more fun for crafters and non-crafters alike.

MassivelyChampions Online cuts the craft in favor of the mod scene originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscocraftingcraftscrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsgame-systemspatchperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewspwesuperherosuperheroesupdatesFri, 30 Mar 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic blog talks about refining the PvP experience]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/star-wars-the-old-republic-blog-talks-about-refining-the-pvp-ex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/star-wars-the-old-republic-blog-talks-about-refining-the-pvp-ex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/star-wars-the-old-republic-blog-talks-about-refining-the-pvp-ex/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

No word yet on whether or not having the prettiest colored weapon will net you a medal. Odds are low.
If you're playing Star Wars: The Old Republic right now, you're probably looking forward to patch 1.2 quite eagerly. The latest topic in the bag of tricks is PvP, with fans of Warzones gaining a new ranking system to help track progress and face off against greater challenges. The ranking system is described in fairly comprehensive detail -- rank changes are based upon your rank compared to your opponents, with separate tracking options for both solo and group players.

There's also a new set of Warzone rewards in the new War Hero set, as well as a number of additional improvements to purchasing rewards and earning commendations in battle. More medals will encourage more active participation, while a new vote-kick system will discourage AFK players. If all of this sounds like something you'd like to check out in person, the update with some of the PvP improvements will be playable at PAX East next weekend, providing an opportunity to test out the battles and give some immediate feedback.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic blog talks about refining the PvP experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artslucasartsnew-warzonespatchesplayer-rankingpvppvp-mechanicspvp-rewardsrank-systemsrankingsci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorswtor-patch-1.2the-old-republictorupdateswarzone-rewardswarzonesFri, 30 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lead your Legion into Final Fantasy XI's March version update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/lead-your-legion-into-final-fantasy-xis-march-version-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/lead-your-legion-into-final-fantasy-xis-march-version-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/lead-your-legion-into-final-fantasy-xis-march-version-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Final Fantasy XI
Final Fantasy XI's March version update has hit the live servers, and it brings with it a few new bits of content as well as a wealth of updates and adjustments to current systems. The big new feature with this content update is the new Legion battle system, which "is a new battle system intended to challenge high-level adventurers in alliances of eighteen to thirty-six combatants."

The Legion system seems to play out like a cross between a survival and a time-attack game mode wherein players are tasked with eliminating as many high-level notorious monsters as they can within a 30-minute time limit. Each notorious monster the team successfully defeats will yield valuable items and Legion points that can be redeemed for a number of rewards. This is only a part of the new additions to the game available with the March update, though, so if you're interested in the complete details, just head on over to the Final Fantasy XI official forums and have a look.

MassivelyLead your Legion into Final Fantasy XI's March version update originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fantasyffff11ffxifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xilegionlegion-battle-systemmarch-updatemarch-version-updatepatchpatchessquaresquare-enixupdateupdatesversion-updateTue, 27 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anarchy Online's Fia Tjernberg talks graphics engine update and the future of the game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/anarchy-onlines-fia-tjernberg-talks-graphics-engine-update-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/anarchy-onlines-fia-tjernberg-talks-graphics-engine-update-and/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/anarchy-onlines-fia-tjernberg-talks-graphics-engine-update-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Anarchy Online
Anarchy Online players have been anxiously awaiting the game's upcoming graphics engine upgrade for some time now, and new details are slowly but surely beginning to drip down the pipeline. The latest of these new bits of information is an interview with Game Director Fia Tjernberg that also includes a new preview video showing off "dynamic grass, shadow, water, and god-rays" in the new engine.

The interview itself only touches very briefly on the subject of the new engine itself, however, and in fact focuses more on the history of Anarchy Online as well as the direction that the team plans to take the game in the future. Tjernberg reveals that the team is "working towards a massive overhaul of [the game's] systems mechanics and content interaction," as well as "releasing a new starting area - nay strike that - a completely new starting experience," which should give new players and veterans alike plenty to look forward to in the future. To check out the new graphics engine preview video, just skip on past the cut, then click over to MMORPG.com for the full interview.

Continue reading Anarchy Online's Fia Tjernberg talks graphics engine update and the future of the game

MassivelyAnarchy Online's Fia Tjernberg talks graphics engine update and the future of the game originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoclassic-mmof2pfia-tjernbergfree-to-playfuncomgraphics-enginegraphics-engine-updateinterviewinterviewsnew-player-experiencesci-fiupdatesvideovideosTue, 27 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newest letter from Naoki Yoshida outlines the plans for Final Fantasy XIV's next patch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/newest-letter-from-naoki-yoshida-outlines-the-plans-for-final-fa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/newest-letter-from-naoki-yoshida-outlines-the-plans-for-final-fa/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/newest-letter-from-naoki-yoshida-outlines-the-plans-for-final-fa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ahead, like some vast, predatory... wait, that's a different franchise.
Patch 1.21 has just gone live, but many fans of Final Fantasy XIV are already looking ahead to patch 1.22. And it's understandable -- the game is kicking into the final stretch before the major relaunch, and that means new conflicts and new quests as the era draws to a close. Producer Naoki Yoshida recently released a new producer's letter detailing the list of features slated for inclusion with this next update, including the hamlet defense feature that was trimmed from patch 1.21.

This penultimate patch before version 2.0 will also see the conflict between Eorzea and the Empire escalate further, illustrated by the presence of a new Imperial stronghold for players to assault. There will be new Imperial weapons as a result, along with new quests and new Grand Company ranks. Currently slated for the end of April, this patch can be expected to deliver a number of improvements to the game, even if it may wind up being delayed a bit in the end.

MassivelyNewest letter from Naoki Yoshida outlines the plans for Final Fantasy XIV's next patch originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesfantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21ffxiv-patch-1.22final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-updatesnaoki-yoshidanewspatchpatchesproducers-lettersquaresquare-enixupcoming-updatesupdatesMon, 26 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vindictus brings out a dragon with accompanying ink]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/vindictus-brings-out-a-dragon-with-accompanying-ink/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/vindictus-brings-out-a-dragon-with-accompanying-ink/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/vindictus-brings-out-a-dragon-with-accompanying-ink/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In any fantasy game, downing a dragon is what you want. Sure, there might be other monsters that are technically stronger, but nothing else has quite the feel of straight-up slaying a dragon. Nexon realizes this, which is why the strongest foe in Vindictus' latest game update, is the massive dragon Elchulus. Players will need to have quite the team to bring down this massive foe, as a full raid of 24 characters at level 40 are required to slay the beast.

The update also adds a lower-level raid for levels 20 and 30 as well as some brand-new tattoos to help signify your battle against the scaly menace. You can buy new tattoos, or you can face off against the new bosses and have a chance at winning one for free. Not quite convinced? Then take a look at the dragon in action just past the break, and see if you don't have a sudden urge to put a flying lizard in its place.

Continue reading Vindictus brings out a dragon with accompanying ink

MassivelyVindictus brings out a dragon with accompanying ink originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Mog Log header by A. Fienemann
So patch 1.21 has finally come out, after what feels like a wait of several thousand years. It's the biggest patch since the last one, certainly, and headlining the whole thing is the introduction of the Job system. Final Fantasy XIV players the world over can finally experience the game as one of the iconic classes that have pretty much been the other shoe waiting to drop since the game's launch. But there's also chocobo barding, new dungeons, new functional improvements, private rooms... the usual confluence of many separate elements in a single patch. It's the biggest one since the last one, in other words.

The problem this patch faces with its marquee element, of course, is that jobs are something players have anticipated for so long that there's no right way to do them. However jobs get put into the game, some players will be happy and some won't. The best outcome has never been a perfect implementation so much as an implementation that's done consistently and hits the right notes. And that's arguably what happened, but that doesn't necessarily mean I'll agree that this was the best implementation possible.

Continue reading The Mog Log: Point two one

MassivelyThe Mog Log: Point two one originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 17 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsolesfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivgame-mechanicsgame-updatesjobsmog-logopinionpatchpatchessquaresquare-enixsquenixthe-mog-logupdatesSat, 17 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic answers questions on 1.2 and priorities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/17/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-questions-on-1-2-and-priorit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/17/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-questions-on-1-2-and-priorit/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/17/star-wars-the-old-republic-answers-questions-on-1-2-and-priorit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

No one ever asks if Hutta is ever going to be a bit less yellow. That's just an accepted fact.
With patch 1.2 on the horizon, most Star Wars: The Old Republic players have questions, which makes it a good thing that the game is still hosting a weekly community question-and-answer session to give players answers to those questions. This week, we've been granted a confirmation that more character slots are being planned, an assertion that new crafted items will still use existing high-end materials, and the promise that a "barber shop"-style feature is in the planning stages (even if it's not in 1.2).

That last answer leads into a discussion of how the development team prioritizes updates, the pace of those updates, and what players can expect as each update goes live. As outlined in the answer, the big question is how much work any given feature is expected to take, which has to be juggled so that big features are coming out regularly without forcing development to stagnate. That means that some features have to wait for future updates -- but it seems like the team is still well aware of these issues just the same.

MassivelyStar Wars: The Old Republic answers questions on 1.2 and priorities originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 17 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecommunityeaelectronic-artsimprovementslucasartspatch-1.2patchesq-and-aquestions-and-answerssci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorswtor-patch-1.2the-old-republictorupcoming-patchesupcoming-updatesupdatesSat, 17 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall believes in magic]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/darkfall-believes-in-magic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/darkfall-believes-in-magic/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/darkfall-believes-in-magic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Okay, not believing in magic is a mite hard at times in a magical fantasy world.
There are a lot of changes in the pipeline for Darkfall, but it's safe to say that whatever else changes in the game, magic will remain important. The newest development blog for the game discusses the revised state of low-level magic and some of the basics of more powerful magic as well. Every character can use the lowest tier of magic, which mixes both Intelligence and Wisdom as important stats and can be cast regardless of what the character is wearing. Known as Minor Incantations, the school contains only five spells, but they're all of basic utility, ranging from basic magical damage to a simple self-healing spell.

Beyond the earliest steps, the developers have taken pains to try to make magic more balanced and interesting. The biggest element in spell potency is the governing attribute of the spell (Intelligence or Wisdom), but the level of the spell, the staff being used by the caster, and the overall level of the magic school in question all come into play. Take a look at the full diary to get a better sense of where the game's mystical arts are heading in the future.

[Thanks to Dengar for the tip!]

MassivelyDarkfall believes in magic originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agonaventurinedarkfalldffantasygame-mechanicsmagicmechanicsnewsopen-pvppvpsandboxupdatesThu, 15 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online previews the new Specialization system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/champions-online-previews-the-new-specialization-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/champions-online-previews-the-new-specialization-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/champions-online-previews-the-new-specialization-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Tank-punching is not a specialization, but it really should be.
Whether or not you're a fan of Champions Online, you have to admit that the game gives players a lot of options in customizing a character. But apparently the designers felt a need to add another layer of customization, hence the upcoming Specialization System. A preview of the system has been posted, giving players a chance to look at the various combinations that will shape your improved abilities, whether you're playing with an Archetype or a freeform character.

Each character will gain access to three different trees to spend Specialization points; the first tree at level 10 based off of your primary Super Stat. The two subsequent trees are unlocked at level 20 and 30; these trees are predetermined for Archetypes and can be freely selected for freeform characters. Each tree offers a number of benefits for given roles, allowing a great deal of flexibility in creating a character build that suits what you like to do best.

MassivelyChampions Online previews the new Specialization system originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championschampions-onlinechampscocrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfree-to-playgame-mechanicsnew-mechanicsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpreviewspwespecializationspecialization-systemsuperherosuperheroesupdatesTue, 13 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online kicks off the Battle for Earth today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/dc-universe-online-kicks-off-the-battle-for-earth-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/dc-universe-online-kicks-off-the-battle-for-earth-today/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/dc-universe-online-kicks-off-the-battle-for-earth-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Is... is Braniac a Reaper?
It's time for the main event in DC Universe Online. You're not just taking part in the Battle for Metropolis or the Battle for Gotham City or the Battle for the Local Burger Joint. No, this is the Battle for Earth, the newest DLC pack for the game, available now for all players. It's time for the war against Brainiac to reach its conclusion, and considering the setting, you can be sure the war won't be won with polite speeches and reasonable discussion.

Of course, this means a lot of new elements, such as a new powerset and a new raid. If you're not one of the Legendary players and have to choose whether or not to buy the pack, there's a new trailer available just after the cut meant to show off all the niftiness therein. And besides, can you really opt out of taking part in the battle for Earth? Your character probably lives there.

[Source: Sony Online Entertainment press release]

Continue reading DC Universe Online kicks off the Battle for Earth today

MassivelyDC Universe Online kicks off the Battle for Earth today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-for-earthconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodlcdownloadable-contentf2pfree-to-playpatchesplaystation-3playstation3ps3soesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroesupdatesTue, 13 Mar 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online developer blog on shaping the newest story]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/lord-of-the-rings-online-developer-blog-on-shaping-the-newest-st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/lord-of-the-rings-online-developer-blog-on-shaping-the-newest-st/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/lord-of-the-rings-online-developer-blog-on-shaping-the-newest-st/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Riverfront property is pretty much always like this.
The next part of Lord of the Rings Online's epic story is on the way, another installment with players following behind the Fellowship of the Ring and taking care of all sorts of important tasks on the periphery. That means it's time for players to head down south of Lothlorien toward the banks of the river Anduin. And according to the latest developer diary, if you're interested in the people of Rohan, you'll be happy to learn this installment is packed to the brim with all sorts of interesting moments and landscapes.

Aside from laying out the basics of what players will be doing on the shores of the river, the entry also explains why this installment of the story is sending players via the river rather than the west when the last story put them on the wrong side of the Misty Mountains. The entry explains that it's all about the shape of the story -- sending players ahead to Rohan from the wrong side would lead to all sorts of unpleasantly early victories and make things a lot less interesting. It should be an enlightening look at the upcoming installment of the story, even if it won't ameliorate some grumbles at the amount of travel involved.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online developer blog on shaping the newest story originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developer-diariesepic-storyf2pfantasyfree-to-playgame-storylord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelorelotrlotrolotro-volume-iii-book-6storystory-pathstory-shapeturbineturbine-entertainmentupdatesMon, 12 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV unveils the full scope of patch 1.21]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/final-fantasy-xiv-unveils-the-full-scope-of-patch-1-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/final-fantasy-xiv-unveils-the-full-scope-of-patch-1-21/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/final-fantasy-xiv-unveils-the-full-scope-of-patch-1-21/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

No, it's not Vivi.
The time is now -- Final Fantasy XIV's sweeping patch 1.21 is going live. That means players can experience the new Job system, do battle in two new instanced dungeons, and relax in their new private rooms. The patch notes make it clear that as with most of the game's patches, there's a lot going on even beyond the headlining features for the update, including intra-city teleportation services, new achievement categories to explore, and new ways for players to spend guild marks.

Patch 1.21 also brings along a revision to the food and medicine of the game, with food serving universally as a small long-term buff and medicines working as short effects or buffs with a big impact. The team has also revised accessories, doing away with the previous mechanic of slot costs. And that's not even touching upon new missions for provisioning from the Grand Companies, the introduction of chocobo barding, or any number of other smaller features added with the list. It's a lot of stuff to absorb, and it should keep adventurers happy for quite some time.

MassivelyFinal Fantasy XIV unveils the full scope of patch 1.21 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffsconsoleconsolesdungeonsexperiencefantasyffff14ffxivffxiv-patch-1.21final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfoodgame-mechanicsgame-updatesinstanced-dungeonsinstanced-raidsjob-systemjobslevelingmedicinenewspatchpatchesrestsquaresquare-enixupdatesThu, 08 Mar 2012 19:00:00 EST