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[CrimeCraft expansion to feature persistent territory control, quickplay options]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/crimecraft-expansion-to-feature-persistent-territory-control-qu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/crimecraft-expansion-to-feature-persistent-territory-control-qu/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/crimecraft-expansion-to-feature-persistent-territory-control-qu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

CrimeCraft - two dudes shooting at one another
Remember CrimeCraft? We do, and the tragically titled actioner is still alive and kicking (or shooting, perhaps).

We bring this up because Vogster is readying its second major expansion, GangWars, which is scheduled to launch on December 5th. The update adds more of a traditional MMO feel to what is otherwise a lobby-based game. New territory wars mechanics are the culprit, and they allow gangs to own and control sections of the game's persistent Sunrise City environment.

Curiously, Vogster is also implementing a new quickplay system which offers access to CrimeCraft's "core gameplay features through a simplified interface that lets you shortcut RPG gameplay and get right to the action." CrimeCraft boasts 20 unique maps and 11 gameplay modes. Learn more about the game, and sign up for free, at the official website. Before you go, though, check out the territory wars trailer after the break.

[Source: Vogster press release]

Continue reading CrimeCraft expansion to feature persistent territory control, quickplay options

MassivelyCrimeCraft expansion to feature persistent territory control, quickplay options originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecrimecraftcrimecraft-gangwarsexpansionf2pfree-to-playgangwarsmmo-shootermmofpspersistencepersistent-worldreal-lifeshooterterritory-warstrailervideovogstervogster-entertainmentFri, 18 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: CrimeCraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/17/rise-and-shiny-recap-crimecraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/17/rise-and-shiny-recap-crimecraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/17/rise-and-shiny-recap-crimecraft/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

The first thing I want to do when hearing about a game's poor quality is try it myself. I've found that unless the complaints specify performance issues, the real problem is that the gameplay just didn't mesh well with the person issuing the complaint. Often, those folks talk in general specifics like "Everyone hates the skillsets" or "No one liked that last patch." Gamers are great at declaring what "everyone" likes or dislikes, as though they have access to information that not even the developers themselves have. A good rule of thumb is that the more a player mentions "everyone," the more he is probably wrong.

CrimeCraft is one of these games, but for different reasons. As I asked around about the game, most people I heard from simply complained about its resemblance to the original All Points Bulletin. And since APB had issues, surely CrimeCraft must as well. Players also commented on how they heard it was busted or that didn't play well at all or that it was just a really bad game.

So I had to dig in. What did I find? Click past the cut and I'll tell you.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: CrimeCraft

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: CrimeCraft originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 17 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbeau-hindmancrimecraftfeaturedfpsfree-to-playftpgamersfirstglobal-agendahi-rezhi-rez-studioslivestreammmofpsrise-and-shinyshootervideovogstervogster-entertainmentSun, 17 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft's executive producer talks on the game's strengths]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/crimecrafts-executive-producer-talks-on-the-games-strengths/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/crimecrafts-executive-producer-talks-on-the-games-strengths/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/20/crimecrafts-executive-producer-talks-on-the-games-strengths/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

CrimeCraft may have launched with a bang, but that bang appeared to be less of a gunshot and more of a car backfiring. Vogster Entertainment's MMOFPS was met with somewhat mixed reviews, moved to a free-to-play model, and found itself banned in Australia. But the game persists, and executive producer Matt McEnerney recently sat down with Warcry to discuss issues ranging from the Australia ban to the game's focus.

In a rather refreshing moment, McEnerney flatly states that the game is not for everyone, going on to state that those players who fall under Bartle's classification of Explorer or Socializer will be less likely to enjoy the game. It's a positive mark of candor, and certainly helps strengthen McEnerney's points on what the gae is trying to do and what it's best at. The interview also covers the current endgame option, whiich focus heavily on PvP amidst the game's warring families of gangs.

On the Australia ban, the producer's statement is essentially one that the government can ban the game from shelves but not hard drives -- which strikes us as a little criminal, but when you're talking about a game called CrimeCraft, do you really expect much different? Those interested in the game should take a look at the full interview, which is a bit more honest in places than we've come to expect from the genre.

MassivelyCrimeCraft's executive producer talks on the game's strengths originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banned-in-australiabartle-typescrimecraftendgameexecutive-producerexplorerfpsinterviewmark-mcenerneymmofpspvpsocializervogstervogster-entertainmentWed, 20 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Bad Santas]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/one-shots-bad-santas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/one-shots-bad-santas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/one-shots-bad-santas/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


While you're unlikely to find Billy Bob Thornton running around in the landscape of CrimeCraft, recently players were treated to all the strange Santas they could handle in the recent holiday event "Mall Santa Photo Booth." Now as to how some weirded-out Terminator Santa got in there, we've no idea. Thankfully Victor B. was there to capture this image from the event, and might be able to shed some light on it:

CrimeCraft is a persistent online third-person shooter with an "over-the-shoulder" view similar to Gears of War. It takes place in a near future urban metropolis that revolves around gang warfare. Players can create gangs, craft weaponry, tailor clothes, and manufacture drugs. Game play in instances features a kill streak reward system similar to COD4. It grants experience points, which allows a player to upgrade their skills (skills are like perks such as martyrdom and explosives).

Well, perhaps a reader will explain the festive cyborg-looking thing on the left, eh?

If you'd like to join in the fun, send in screenshots from your favorite MMO to us here at oneshots AT massively DOT com. Be sure to add your name, the name of the game, and a quick description in the email. We'll post the image out here for everyone to check out and give you the credit! Also, please make sure your screenshot is at least 1024 pixels across and has no visible UI elements.

Gallery: One Shots


MassivelyOne Shots: Bad Santas originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecrimecraftholidays-2009one-shotssantascreenshotscreenshotsthird-person-shooterVictor-bvogster-entertainmentFri, 08 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft banned in Australia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/crimecraft-banned-in-australia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/crimecraft-banned-in-australia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/crimecraft-banned-in-australia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Vogster's MMOFPS CrimeCraft hasn't had the easiest time, and it took another hit last week when it was banned in Australia. The Australian Classification Board refused classification of the game thanks to the availability of Boosts, drugs that give the player character various buffs. The reason given? "In the board's opinion, there is insufficient delineation between the 'fictional drugs' available in game and real-world proscribed drugs."

The board elaborated a bit on their decision, pointing out strong similarities to real-world drugs: "In addition, the names of boosts mimic the chemicals and colloquial names of proscribed drugs. Examples include K-Dust, Birth, Chimera, Majoun, Betadyne ResistX and Zymek Stim-Ex, as well as the anabolics Raze and Frenzy."

Australia currently does not have any sort of R18+ classification, so a game that would receive that rating is banned. Valve worked around this in October by submitting a censored version of Left 4 Dead 2, so CrimeCraft may not be entirely without hope.

MassivelyCrimeCraft banned in Australia originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australian-classification-boardbannedcrimecraftrefused-classificationvogstervogster-entertainmentMon, 30 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft heading for Facebook and iPhones]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/crimecraft-heading-for-facebook-and-iphones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/crimecraft-heading-for-facebook-and-iphones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/crimecraft-heading-for-facebook-and-iphones/#commentsFiled under: , ,


There's no doubt CrimeCraft has been seeing some tough times since its launch. Nevertheless, that's not stopping Vogster Entertainment from paving new development paths. They're currently working on CrimeCraft: Kingpin, which is essentially a way to interface with the game through Facebook or the iPhone application.

While details aren't clear at this point, Vogster is saying players will be able to complete missions, build gangs, buy weapons and equipment and develop rivalries in battles all while climbing up leaderboards. The top player will of course earn the rank of -- you guessed it -- Kingpin.

Integration into the PC game offers CrimeCraft: Kingpin an opportunity to stand out amongst the ever-growing crowd of Facebook and iPhone apps. Leveraging that advantage will go a long way to getting people interested in the newly free-to-play model of the game.

MassivelyCrimeCraft heading for Facebook and iPhones originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplicationcrimecraftcrimecraft-kingpinfacebookiphonevogstervogster-entertainmentTue, 13 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft prepares for a conversion to free to play, announces first content update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/crimecraft-prepares-for-a-conversion-to-free-to-play-announces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/crimecraft-prepares-for-a-conversion-to-free-to-play-announces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/crimecraft-prepares-for-a-conversion-to-free-to-play-announces/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


The newly(ish) launched MMOFPS CrimeCraft made a bombshell of an announcement today, revealing that they were dropping their current subscription/boxed product model in favor of a free-to-play model.

CrimeCraft, which retails for 40 bucks at Best Buy and FutureShop, will be unleashing an "unlimited free trial" for their game along with a content update at the end of this month. Users who participate in this "unlimited free trial" will have the option to upgrade to a subscription based account in one of two flavors -- a 4.99 a month subscription or a 9.99 a month version. The difference between these two subscriptions comes down to customization, number of available skill slots, and the speed of experience gain.

So what about those people who paid the 40 dollars for the software? Well, you'll be getting an "Original Gangster" tag and icon for your character, a third free month of the 9.99 subscription plan, exclusive access to upcoming content, and more unannounced in-game items.

Continue reading CrimeCraft prepares for a conversion to free to play, announces first content update

MassivelyCrimeCraft prepares for a conversion to free to play, announces first content update originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcontentcrimecraftf2pfree-to-playgangsmmofpspwnsshootersubscriptionunlimited-trialvogster-entertainmentFri, 02 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vogster Entertainment restructures, confirms office closings]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/vogster-entertainment-restructures-confirms-office-closings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/vogster-entertainment-restructures-confirms-office-closings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/17/vogster-entertainment-restructures-confirms-office-closings/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Vogster Entertainment, the maker of recently launched MMO CrimeCraft, confirmed that the company has restructured its resources, though its New Jersey headquarters still remains operational.

The announcement comes following rumors from various sources that the company has completely shuttered, including a post from Giantbomb.com which stated employees at its Kiev, Ukraine office have updated their social networking profiles to "imply that they're looking for work."

Vogster has just issued a statement to Massively saying that it is "restructuring to focus its resources toward the enhancement and expansion" of Crimecraft.

"As an independent developer, we need to be very strategic in our use of available resources and shift from already launched titles to support the ongoing development and growth of CrimeCraft," said Vogster's VP of development Daniel Prousline in a press statement.

"We regret the necessary staffing changes and the talented employees that this impacts, but it is an unavoidable step in moving to the operational stage of CrimeCraft and optimizing for the development of yet to be announced titles."

Continue reading Vogster Entertainment restructures, confirms office closings

MassivelyVogster Entertainment restructures, confirms office closings originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closingscrimecraftfeaturedvogster-entertainmentThu, 17 Sep 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Makes being bad look good]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/one-shots-makes-being-bad-look-good/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/one-shots-makes-being-bad-look-good/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/01/one-shots-makes-being-bad-look-good/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We've sent out the call several times recently for players to send in screenshots of places we hadn't seen before, and we're glad to report that we've finally managed to land one from CrimeCraft. This inner-city One Shots was sent to us by Ivan, who sends in his thoughts: Just thought since [CrimeCraft] doesn't seem to be getting any love, I would drop a screen shot. This is the midtown district. A couple of skyscrapers in the distance. Notice the in game ads which I think fit in with the world very nicely; the little game that could. I think it has lots of potential. [I've] been having a blast.

if you're playing an MMO we haven't seen, we want to hear from you! Just email your images and thoughts in to oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name and a brief description of the area. We'll post them out here for everyone to check out and give you the nod for sending it in.

Gallery: One Shots

MassivelyOne Shots: Makes being bad look good originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecraftivanone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotsvogster-entertainmentTue, 01 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft launches, producer responds to naysayers ]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/crimecraft-launches-producer-responds-to-naysayers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/crimecraft-launches-producer-responds-to-naysayers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/crimecraft-launches-producer-responds-to-naysayers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You still may be knee-deep in recent news about an expansion for a little game called World of Warcraft, but there are also a few other games being released before then -- like CrimeCraft, for instance.

Developed by Vogster Entertainment, the crime-themed MMO (called a Persistent World Next-Gen Shooter or "PWNS" by its developers) has shipped and is available exclusively at Best Buy today. But ever since the gang-on-gang shooter's been announced, it's been criticized for just about every aspect -- its name, its business model, its crafting system -- you name it.

"You have to take it with a grain of salt," said senior content producer Mike Donatelli of the criticism in an e-mail to Massively.com. "Some people had a preconceived idea of what they wanted us to be. They thought we were [Grand Theft Auto IV] online, and it's just not the case... There are a lot of risks, which is the reason why you haven't really seen a game like CrimeCraft before."

As the former content design lead for Warhammer Online, Donatelli also spoke a variety of topics, including what he learned from his work at Mythic, what it's like to be at an independent developer and what we can expect for CrimeCraft following launch.

Continue reading CrimeCraft launches, producer responds to naysayers

MassivelyCrimeCraft launches, producer responds to naysayers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecraftfeaturedvogster-entertainmentTue, 25 Aug 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft's digital download options and bonuses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/crimecrafts-digital-download-options-and-bonuses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/crimecrafts-digital-download-options-and-bonuses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/crimecrafts-digital-download-options-and-bonuses/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


CrimeCraft's launch date is just around the corner now, and if you haven't pre-ordered yet but plan on doing so, there really isn't a lot of time left! While the retail distribution of the game in North America and Canada is exclusive to particular stores (Best Buy for NA and Future Shop in Canada), there are a few choices when it comes to making a digital purchase. Future players will be able to buy and download the title from CrimeCraft.com, Direct2Drive (IGN), Steam and Best Buy Digital. All of the digital downloads come with a few in-game perks (different from each other), and all of them bar Steam offer some extras for pre-ordering. No matter which way you go, the suggested price of US$49.95 includes two months of premium subscription, including a ration of gold bars that are used for in-game microtransactions.

All of the information you need to know in order to make your choice is just past the break -- be sure to check it out if you plan on getting CrimeCraft digitally.

Continue reading CrimeCraft's digital download options and bonuses

MassivelyCrimeCraft's digital download options and bonuses originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonusescrimecrimecraftdigital-distributiondigital-downloadlaunchesmicrotransactionspre-orderpreordervogstervogster-entertainmentWed, 12 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2009: CrimeCraft producer says game is the next step for Call of Duty, Halo players]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-crimecraft-producer-says-game-is-the-next-step/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-crimecraft-producer-says-game-is-the-next-step/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/e3-2009-crimecraft-producer-says-game-is-the-next-step/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


All Points Bulletin wasn't the only crime-themed MMO I saw at E3 last week. I also got to check out Vogster Entertainment's CrimeCraft. Just before the conference, the developer announced an August 25 release date, a monthly subscription as their business model and an exclusive deal with Best Buy.

On the floor, associate producer Aaron Krasnov laid down what's new in the game, how it's different from APB, the help he got from former Warhammer Online developers and how CrimeCraft is a natural progression for players of Halo and Call of Duty.

Continue reading E3 2009: CrimeCraft producer says game is the next step for Call of Duty, Halo players

MassivelyE3 2009: CrimeCraft producer says game is the next step for Call of Duty, Halo players originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecrimecrafte3e3-2009featuredvogster-entertainmentMon, 08 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft to be sold exclusively for North America at Best Buy]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/crimecraft-to-be-sold-exclusively-for-north-america-at-best-buy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


One of the titles gamers can look forward to this summer is CrimeCraft, a hybrid of a shooter and urban MMO from Vogster Entertainment, to be published by THQ Inc. in August. Vogster and THQ have taken a somewhat surprising step towards distribution of CrimeCraft in North America; the title will be sold exclusively at Best Buy, either in-store or online.

The exclusivity of this deal may bring some perks to CrimeCraft players. The official release states: "Consumers who purchase CrimeCraft at Best Buy will receive two months of free play time and a number of exclusive in-game items, including two in-game t-shirts from acclaimed real-world fashion labels and a combat backpack for their avatar. Gamers will also receive a virtual Best Buy discount card that allows them to purchase in-game items at a reduced cost. Those gamers pre-ordering CrimeCraft via Best Buy retail stores or online at www.bestbuy.com, will additionally receive virtual in-game shoes from Ecko Unltd., created by fashion icon Marc Ecko, access to play the pre-release version of the game during beta, and three days' head start at the game's launch."

Pre-orders begin on May 31st (online) or on June 7th (in stores). CrimeCraft is still slated for an August 25th launch.

Gallery: CrimeCraft

MassivelyCrimeCraft to be sold exclusively for North America at Best Buy originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buybusiness-modelscrimecrimecraftlaunchesmarc-eckommo-industrymmofpsnorth-americapre-ordersretailshooterthird-person-shooterthqvogster-entertainmentFri, 29 May 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft launch date set for August 25]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/crimecraft-launch-date-set-for-august-25/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/crimecraft-launch-date-set-for-august-25/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/crimecraft-launch-date-set-for-august-25/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


CrimeCraft from Vogster Entertainment bills itself as a 'persistent world next-gen shooter' (aka PWNS), set in a near-future city where society has decayed. The city has become a savage place and players will need to band together in gangs in order to survive, which could prove to be a hit with gamers into urban crime titles. We announced earlier in the week that CrimeCraft has entered closed beta but beyond our coverage of the title from GDC 2009 we hadn't received a firm release date.

The wait is over now though; Vogster Entertainment has announced that CrimeCraft will launch on August 25th, meaning it may well be the first of the shooter/MMO hybrid games to go live.

Gallery: CrimeCraft

MassivelyCrimeCraft launch date set for August 25 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 May 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecrimecraftlaunchesmmo-industrymmofpspvppwnsshooterurban-crimevogster-entertainmentThu, 21 May 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft enters closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/crimecraft-enters-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/crimecraft-enters-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/15/crimecraft-enters-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Massively has been looking at the upcoming shooter/MMO hybrids that are on the way, namely Global Agenda, Huxley: The Dystopia, and Fallen Earth. But there will soon be another 'MMOFPS' option for gamers with the first such title to release for the urban crime genre: CrimeCraft, in development at Vogster Entertainment.

CrimeCraft entered closed beta this week and Vogster is, of course, very serious about the NDA. 'What happens in CrimeCraft stays in CrimeCraft'; they've said they'll unceremoniously revoke beta access for players who spill details of the game. But those lucky people who were accepted have a closed beta forum available to them as of today, where they can talk about the game to their heart's content without getting themselves banhammered from the streets of CrimeCraft. We were fortunate enough to speak with Vogster Entertainment about the game recently at GDC 2009, but we're hoping there will be more news about the title in the coming months. We'll be sure to keep our readers informed when we hear more about this game.

Are you excited about urban crime titles like CrimeCraft and All Points Bulletin making their way into the MMO space?

MassivelyCrimeCraft enters closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 May 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betasclosed-betacrimecrimecraftmmo-industrymmofpsnew-titlesurban-crimevogster-entertainmentFri, 15 May 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft trailer gives a brief glimpse into the urban crime MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/crimecraft-trailer-gives-a-brief-glimpse-into-the-urban-crime-mm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/crimecraft-trailer-gives-a-brief-glimpse-into-the-urban-crime-mm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/crimecraft-trailer-gives-a-brief-glimpse-into-the-urban-crime-mm/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The massively multiplayer online game industry will soon be getting an influx of space-based science fiction titles as well as earthbound post-apocalytic MMOs. Another new realm that is going to be explored by game developers like Vogster Entertainment is the urban crime MMO. Their debut massively multiplayer title will be CrimeCraft. We don't have many details on the game beyond the trailer they released and the info they've published so far on their site, but we do know that it's a persistent world 'next-gen' shooter built on the Unreal 3 engine.

We've found another glimpse into what Vogster has been up to, though. IGN Videos has a (very) brief trailer showing the CrimeCraft characters with narration explaining obtaining and modifying your weapons. We weren't inspired enough by the trailer to commit crimes of our own by stealing and embedding it for you here, so you'll have to head over to IGN to check out the video footage. We're hoping to speak with Vogster at GDC this week and find out more about this title, so keep your eyes open for more on this urban crime MMO.

MassivelyCrimeCraft trailer gives a brief glimpse into the urban crime MMO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecrimecraftignign-videostrailersurbanurban-crimevideovideosvogstervogster-entertainmentTue, 24 Mar 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CrimeCraft impressions and screenshots]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/crimecraft-impressions-and-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/crimecraft-impressions-and-screenshots/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/14/crimecraft-impressions-and-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Despite its unfortunate name, Vogster's CrimeCraft seems to be a promising contender in the crop of games launching in 2009, according to a recent review at Gamespy. First announced earlier last year, CrimeCraft boasts what they call a "persistent-world next-gen shooter", or PWNS for short. Can an MMO shooter work? Ask Planetside, Tabula Rasa and Huxley (if he ever shows up).

Unnecessary snark aside, the screenshots in this review article look gorgeous. The gameplay seems promising, with PvE, deathmatch PvP and a crafting system that is aimed at using some real sponsorship promotion (think CoH ads, but on clothes). Yet the one part that raised our collective eyebrows was the mention of a persistent world, yet it is said to include only persistent towns, much like Guild Wars and Diablo II. Granted the game isn't finished and is still in a closed beta at this point, but Vogster's senior marketing manager Casey Dickinson mentioned that they're thinking of ways to "liven up" the game's persistent lobbies.

MassivelyCrimeCraft impressions and screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecraftgamespypersistentpwnsvogstervogster-entertainmentWed, 14 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOGology: Grand Theft MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/grand-theft-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/grand-theft-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/grand-theft-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


On Tuesday, April 29th, 2008 Rockstar Games released Grand Theft Auto IV (GTA IV), one of the most anticipated games of 2008. Based on early reviews (all of which have been unanimously positive) it looks like the latest installment in the series has exceeded expectations. Everything about GTA IV appears to have been kicked up a notch. The graphics are more realistic, the gameplay has been refined and tightened, and the characters and storyline have more depth. While this type of evolution is to be expected, one of the most interesting new features about GTA IV is that you can play it online. Unlike previous versions of the Grand Theft Auto series, this one will allow Xbox 360 and PS3 owners the ability to play with up to sixteen friends online. While sixteen players doesn't exactly qualify as "massively multiplayer", it's a step in the right direction for those of us eagerly anticipating a GTA-style MMO.

It seems like a natural progression for Rockstar to bring their venerable series to the massively multiplayer arena. After all, you've got a built in, recognizable franchise name based around the most classic multiplayer concept known to man - cops and robbers. I think every child has played a real life version of this game at some point in their lives (although perhaps more G rated). It's one of those universal themes that everyone instantly "gets", and yet, no MMO developer has cashed in on the concept. The time seems ripe for Rockstar to join Blizzard in the money printing business.

So how realistic is it that Rockstar might be producing a Grand Theft Auto MMO? Is such a game already in development? I did a little digging and I'll show you what I've been able to find thus far after the break. I'll also fill you in on a few MMOs with similar concepts that you might be able to play as early as this time next year.

Continue reading MMOGology: Grand Theft MMO

MassivelyMMOGology: Grand Theft MMO originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletincops-and-robberscrime-gamescrimecraftfeaturedgrand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-ivgrand-theft-auto-mmogrand-theft-auto-mmogjoystiqfeaturesrealtime-worldsRealtime-Worlds-Ltd.rockstarvogster-entertainmentTue, 29 Apr 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Can a crime MMO actually work?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/can-a-crime-mmo-actually-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/can-a-crime-mmo-actually-work/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/can-a-crime-mmo-actually-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


A crime MMO might seem like a great idea, riding on the coattails of such gaming successes as the GTA series and Max Payne, but what about in the MMO space? Would killing the mafia boss or jumping your car over a moving train be quite as fun and translate as well if it were done as an online multiplayer experience? Well, so far we have two shots at it (pun intended): All Points Bulletin and the recently-announced CrimeCraft. Will these games, and the possible onslaught of copycat games be able to recreate the success of their single-player ancestors?

In a recent article at MMOcrunch, they take a look at these possibilities and break down the genre according to what most interests us. They make a very good point about how most of the fun in these games is usually the destructive environments and generally screwing with the AI by blocking the streets with burned-out cars and downed telephone poles. This would not work quite as well in an MMO setting, unless someone at Realtime Worlds or Vogster Entertainment can prove us wrong.

MassivelyCan a crime MMO actually work? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletincrimecrimecraftgtamax-paynerealtime-worldsvogstervogster-entertainmentFri, 18 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vogster Entertainment introduces CrimeCraft]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/vogster-entertainment-introduces-crimecraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/vogster-entertainment-introduces-crimecraft/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/vogster-entertainment-introduces-crimecraft/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

CrimeCraft concept artCrimeCraft, a "gritty, crime drama MMO", has just been announced by Vogster Entertainment for your enjoyment. Hopefully no company will have an objection to the name.

Vogster has yet to release in-depth information for the game, but their website points to a third-person shooter MMO that pushes cooperation via a fleshed out economy and territory control. They've already licensed out the Unreal Engine for the game, so we can expect some fun with physics and a polished graphics system.

Vogster has announced that CrimeCraft will include five classes and feature an advanced character customization system, as well as allow players to evolve their characters through special fighting skills. Gangs will be able to claim control of territory and defend their holds from rival gangs, all while running from the police.

Right now though, the game looks to be a version of All Points Bulletin except minus the police and with alot more dystopia. The game is set in a city where crime controls the streets and the cops can do little more than shrug and bunker down in specially sectioned off areas. Sounds to this blogger like someone needs to call out the tanks.

We'll be following CrimeCraft and giving you more information as it's released. Until then, enjoy their teaser site.

[Via TenTonHammer]

MassivelyVogster Entertainment introduces CrimeCraft originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbcrimecrimecraftnew-gamespvpthird-person-shooterunreal-engineunreal-engine-3vogstervogster-entertainmentTue, 15 Apr 2008 20:30:00 EST