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[The Game Archaeologist answers Asheron's Call 2: The fansite managers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/the-game-archaeologist-answers-asherons-call-2-the-fansite-man/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/the-game-archaeologist-answers-asherons-call-2-the-fansite-man/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/11/the-game-archaeologist-answers-asherons-call-2-the-fansite-man/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Asheron's Call - The Game Archaeologist
Back when I covered Asheron's Call for The Game Archaeologist, I got an impassioned email from a former fansite operator who made me promise that I'd drop her a line when the time came to talk about Asheron's Call 2, as she was not only a huge fan of the title but still in contact with many former players who carry a torch for Turbine's long-departed MMO. One thing led to another, and I ended up talking to both her and a fellow AC2 fansite manager about the ups and downs of covering the second coming of Dereth...

The Game Archaeologist: Please introduce yourself, your current job position, and how you got involved with Asheron's Call 2 back in the day?

Kiersten Samwell: I'm Kiersten Samwell, Community Relations and Social Media Manager for KingsIsle Entertainment, the creator of Wizard101. I used to be the Site Manager for Warcry's Crossroads of Dereth/Asheron's Call site as Ellen Ripley, so it was natural to work with the site manager of their Asheron's Call 2 fansite as well. His name is Roberto, and he was just an incredible site manager. Of course, being an avid AC1 player, I enjoyed AC2 for both its similarities to and its differences from AC1.

Robert Hackett: Hi, I'm Robert Hackett, the Managing MMO Editor of GamersInfo.net. I actually got invited to one of the betas along with a friend of mine. The lag was so bad (the day I logged in may have been a stress test; I can't remember) that I told my friend that there was no way my rig could handle that. Fast forward to the month after release and Ophelea from the old AC Crossroads site begged me to come over to AC2 and be an editor for the database she was trying to build. Logged in and the game was a million percent better. I stayed to work on the database and eventually fell in love with it beyond "work!"

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist answers Asheron's Call 2: The fansite managers

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist answers Asheron's Call 2: The fansite managers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acac-crossroadsac2ac2-warcryasherons-callasherons-call-2atmosphereAubereancraftingddodeja-vuderethdungeons-and-dragons-onlineEllen-Ripleyfallen-kingsfeaturedgamersinfo.netinterviewKiersten-Samwellkingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlegacylord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromicrosoftOpheleapost-apocalypticRobert-Hackettsequelsequelsshutdownstar-wars-galaxiesswgthe-game-archeologistturbineturbine-entertainmentwarcrywizard101world-of-warcraftwowTue, 11 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO's radiance to be run over by a train and other future tidbits revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/07/lotros-radiance-to-be-run-over-by-a-train-and-other-future-tidb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/07/lotros-radiance-to-be-run-over-by-a-train-and-other-future-tidb/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/07/lotros-radiance-to-be-run-over-by-a-train-and-other-future-tidb/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

"We took Radiance outside, tied it up to some railroad tracks, and...well...I think you saw the end of this in Red Dead Redemption. Look for this in the future -‐ we will be removing Radiance from LotRO." Thus sayeth Turbine's Jen "Jalessa" Gordy, who confirmed that the controversial gear gating system is headed for a messy death.

In the same WarCry developer chat, the team fielded a number of questions about where LotRO is headed after this week's mega-update. Some of the features in the works for Tolkien's digital offspring include a new raid, class changes for monster play, a barter item wallet, PvMP skirmishes, Isengard, additional minigames and -- yes -- vanity pets for all. The devs also admitted to slipping in a few pop culture mentions into the game, such as Firefly and Futurama references.

And will there ever be any other hobbies than fishing in LotRO? Kate Paiz mused: "All of us devs really want to make golf next, but it's a tricky undertaking, so we don't have a timeline yet, but feel free to start practicing your backswings!"

You can read the full transcript at A Casual Stroll to Mordor.

MassivelyLotRO's radiance to be run over by a train and other future tidbits revealed originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-casual-stroll-to-mordorcant-stop-the-signaldev-chatdeveloper-chatfireflyfishingfuturamagolfhobbieshypnotoadisengardjen-gordyjrr-tolkienlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrominigamespvmpradianceraidred-dead-redemptiontolkienturbinevanity-petswarcryTue, 07 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythos releases first developer diary: Getting Started In Uld]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/18/mythos-releases-first-developer-diary-getting-started-in-uld/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/18/mythos-releases-first-developer-diary-getting-started-in-uld/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/02/18/mythos-releases-first-developer-diary-getting-started-in-uld/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Remember Mythos? The game has been largely under the radar, but still progressing. Since being picked up by Redbana, Mythos has seen a newly-revamped website with a lot of new information and has begun taking signups for closed beta. Even more recently, the folks at Redbana spent some time with us, discussing Mythos' development.

New information continues to emerge regularly, and now we have a brand new developer diary added to the mix. Dev Diary 001, hosted at Warcry, is entitled Getting Started in Uld, and is pretty much what you'd expect: a guide to your first visit in the land of Uld.

Dev Diary 001 will give you an overview of your first mission in the game as well as some tips on traveling, crafting, and personal achievements in-game. It's a great peek inside the game, and offers a feel for how the basics will work. Take a look at the diary here, and we'll keep our eyes peeled for more!

MassivelyMythos releases first developer diary: Getting Started In Uld originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developer-diarygetting-started-in-uldmythosredbanaWarcryThu, 18 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An angle on EVE's New Player Experience and the game's harsh realities]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/an-angle-on-eves-new-player-experience-and-the-games-harsh-rea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/an-angle-on-eves-new-player-experience-and-the-games-harsh-rea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/an-angle-on-eves-new-player-experience-and-the-games-harsh-rea/#commentsFiled under: , ,


There are few MMOs on the market today that can seem as intimidating to a new player as EVE Online. Some of this comes from the infamous things people have heard about the game, tales of deception and betrayal, but there is a fair amount of complexity to EVE as well and no shortage of digital villains prowling New Eden's thousands of solar systems injecting risk into the game.

The first days and weeks of gameplay experienced by many pilots has led to more than a few descriptions of the experience as an initiation of sorts, conjuring up images of hazings, an analogy that actually holds true in many respects. Anyone who sticks with the game learns through trial and error that the setting of New Eden, by design, can be quite harsh. Even if you're not into PvP, it pervades EVE Online; at the very least players who are to succeed in the game must ultimately learn to adapt and evade the more malevolent players, if not defend themselves from attackers directly.

While EVE will likely never be as easy to get a handle on as some other MMOs out there -- the game's depth and complexity actually being a major draw for its subscribers -- CCP Games has taken steps to better ease new players into New Eden with the New Player Experience (NPE) which was part of the Apocrypha expansion launch. But is EVE's New Player Experience, which does not separate rookie pilots into a safe zone to learn the ropes, the right way to introduce players to the game? This is the focus of a WarCry article by Steven Croop titled "Aura is Aura by Any Other Name".

Continue reading An angle on EVE's New Player Experience and the game's harsh realities

MassivelyAn angle on EVE's New Player Experience and the game's harsh realities originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 May 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaauraccp-gameseveeve-onlinenew-edennew-player-experiencenpeopinionrookierookiessci-fisteven-crooptutorialtutorialswarcryWed, 27 May 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The state of nature: Philosophy applied to EVE Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/the-state-of-nature-philosophy-applied-to-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/the-state-of-nature-philosophy-applied-to-eve-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/the-state-of-nature-philosophy-applied-to-eve-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


EVE Online, in short, is constant, controlled chaos. Alliances are made daily, are trained upwards, and ultimately fall. It's all just a question of when they fall that really differentiates them. Yet, amazingly, out of this controlled game of warfare comes a spark of philosophical intrigue -- the concept of state of nature.

Steven Croop from the Warcry Network has written a feature article discussing the states of EVE Online's types of government versus the old philosophical concept. He theorizes that the same state of self-preservation, noted in the original philosophical concept, does make an appearance in EVE. While the state has changed from its original form (struggle for survival versus struggle to not lose expensive stuff) it still drives the individual of EVE to seek out forms of government for protection, such as corporations and alliances.

Interested in the full read? Check it out over at Warcry and get your dose of philosophical goodness.

MassivelyThe state of nature: Philosophy applied to EVE Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliancealliancesccpcorporationcorporationseveeve-onlinegovernmenthobbeslockephilosophical-discussionphilosophyself-preservationstate-of-naturesteven-croopwarcryWed, 22 Apr 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wormhole exploration hearkens back to EVE Online's early days]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/wormhole-exploration-hearkens-back-to-eve-onlines-early-days/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/wormhole-exploration-hearkens-back-to-eve-onlines-early-days/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/19/wormhole-exploration-hearkens-back-to-eve-onlines-early-days/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


EVE Online's latest Apocrypha expansion has elevated the exploration profession to new heights. The addition of roughly 2500 new and uncharted solar systems, expanding the game's galaxy of New Eden to over 7500 solar systems in total, brings what can honestly be called 'true exploration' to the sci-fi MMO.

Territoriality is a major aspect of EVE and wormholes allow players to emerge in far flung regions of New Eden -- sometimes places they're not supposed to be -- leading to all sorts of unexpected near-death experiences. Players have already reported emerging from wormholes and finding themselves hunted by the local territorial powers (player alliances claiming those regions of the galaxy) or by the NPC authorities, in those cases where players are involved in factional warfare. Some pilots have found themselves deep within enemy faction territory, leading to all kinds of insane chases across the galaxy.

Continue reading Wormhole exploration hearkens back to EVE Online's early days

MassivelyWormhole exploration hearkens back to EVE Online's early days originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocryphaccp-gameseveeve-onlineexpansionsfactional-warfaregame-mechanicsnew-edenopinionrewardsriskriskssci-fisovereigntysteven-croopterritorial-controltrue-explorationwarcrywormholewormhole-explorationwormholesThu, 19 Mar 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth announces closed beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/fallen-earth-announces-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/fallen-earth-announces-closed-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/fallen-earth-announces-closed-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


As announced in a recent press release, Fallen Earth, LLC will begin closed beta sign-ups for their post-apocalyptic MMO Fallen Earth. Anyone interested in signing up for this closed beta is encouraged to apply at their forums and website. With the recent addition of a comprehensive tutorial and more content added or improved daily, the team feels it's ready to take on more testers to "better observe overall game play, perform system stress tests, and ultimately perfect the Fallen Earth game experience."

The game is set in the Grand Canyon, circa 2156, after a plague of disease destroyed most of mankind. It features a classless advancement system, six factions and a powerful crafting system where players create 95 percent of the items for other players. An exact launch date has not been announced, but they're aiming for Q2 of this year.

MassivelyFallen Earth announces closed beta originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsclosed-betafallen-earthicarus-studiospost-apocalypticwarcryWed, 04 Feb 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't pay in gold, barter instead!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/27/dont-pay-in-gold-barter-instead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/27/dont-pay-in-gold-barter-instead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/01/27/dont-pay-in-gold-barter-instead/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Of the many things that developers have to balance in MMOs, the economy is perhaps the least understood. Where damage over time and powers can be easily tweaked to bring them in line with the rest of the game, virtual economies can bounce around more than a hyperactive kid with a super ball. Even if you think you can find a "fix" or a "tweak" to bring your virtual economy to where you think it should be, the economy can throw you a curve ball and react completely differently.

Over at the Warcry Network, Jonathan "Ithelsa" Steinhauer has pitched the concept of going back to a barter economy, similar to the one that Asheron's Call accidentally stumbled upon. Instead of relying on money sinks and economic controls, the barter economy places the value onto items and craftable materials -- thus providing wealth that can easily increase or decrease over time and naturally sink out of the system as they are incorporated into other items.

The full article is worth a read, especially if you're interested in the tricky issue of virtual economies, or just general game design of virtual worlds.

MassivelyDon't pay in gold, barter instead! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acasherons-callbalancebarter-systemeconomygame-designgold-standardturbinevirtual-worldswarcryTue, 27 Jan 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WarCry explores types of game settings]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/27/warcry-explores-types-of-game-settings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/27/warcry-explores-types-of-game-settings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/27/warcry-explores-types-of-game-settings/#commentsFiled under: ,

Should MMOs try to become to gaming what Rocky is to movies? A series of sequels with the same base setting, familiar characters, and expected outcomes? Or should they create a new world with each release? This is the debate offered in a recent article from WarCry, exploring the types of intellectual property offered by MMORPGs.

In the past year, we have heard announcements from some of the largest MMO companies that AAA titles were being closed and games with tremendous recognition may not be getting sequels. It seems there is a movement towards the new and unfamiliar out there, even as the lists of new titles are filled with the likes of Star Wars: The Old Republic, Star Trek Online, and DC Universe Online. So it begs the question, are the games you're most looking forward to based on what has come before or a fresh new world and lore to explore for the first time?

As a caveat to an example used in Mr. Steinhauer's article, this blogger would point out that the Forgotten Realms setting was originally from Dungeons & Dragons settings and had a rather extensive series of novels behind it.

MassivelyWarCry explores types of game settings originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 27 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedungeons-and-dragonsforgotten-realmsintellectual-propertyrockystar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorwarcrySat, 27 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Global Agenda interview hints at upcoming beta]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/global-agenda-interview-hints-at-upcoming-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/global-agenda-interview-hints-at-upcoming-beta/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/global-agenda-interview-hints-at-upcoming-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Here at Massively, we've been strong supporters of the upcoming action-based MMO Global Agenda from Hi-Rez Studios for a while now. As we get more updates about the game, and more fans converge around its development, we're excited to see the buzz grow. In a recent interview at WarCry, Global Agenda's Associate Producer Michal Adam gives us the goods on the new "spy-fi" MMO.

Most of this interview deals with the whats, whys and hows of the game, as Adam explains the general premise of Global Agenda. Of interest to those eagerly awaiting the game though, this caught our eye: "We've actually been testing the game internally for over a year. This summer (June 2008) we launched a closed alpha test program that currently has a community of over 1,000 players. We will evaluate our testing status next quarter but I'd say we're 'very near' a closed beta."

Take a look at the complete WarCry interview, and don't forget to peruse our own extensive ongoing coverage of Hi-Rez Studio's Global Agenda.

Gallery: Hi-Rez Studios and Global Agenda Gallery

When bots attackThe juggernautBancroft helps out

MassivelyGlobal Agenda interview hints at upcoming beta originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphabetaglobal-agendahi-rez-studiosmichal-adamwarcryMon, 22 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Roleplaying in Mines of Moria]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/roleplaying-in-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/roleplaying-in-mines-of-moria/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/roleplaying-in-mines-of-moria/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


As a roleplayer in Lord of the Rings Online, you have access to a goldmine of information regarding how to properly involve yourself in the lore and storyline of the game. Tolkien's works have been so deeply researched and analyzed that there's bound to be some angle in which you can draw inspiration for your character. With the latest expansion, Mines of Moria, a whole new (underground) world has opened up for you to grow your roleplaying adventures.

In a recent RoleCraft article at Warcry, we get a look at some examples and suggestions for proper roleplaying in Moria. If you're a Dwarf, you're all set because Moria is all about you. However, being an Elf, Man or Hobbit may present some interesting challenges, but that's the fun of roleplaying! Challenge yourself to create a unique back story for your characters to explain why they're in Moria. What are they hoping to achieve? The sky's the limit... or at least the mine's ceiling, anyway.

MassivelyRoleplaying in Mines of Moria originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriarolecraftroleplayingturbinewarcryWed, 03 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan composer nominated for Best Original Score]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/age-of-conan-composer-nominated-for-best-original-score/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/age-of-conan-composer-nominated-for-best-original-score/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/age-of-conan-composer-nominated-for-best-original-score/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Funcom's most recent title Age of Conan tends to come under some fire from the gamers who jumped in upon launch. You may have noticed. While players can fault some aspects of the game, it does have some strengths, namely its fantastic score. In fact, the music of AoC has caught the attention of the Hollywood Music Awards.

Knut Avenstroup Haugen, who composed the soundtrack for Age of Conan, has been nominated for Best Original Score in a Video Game, specifically for his "Ere the World Crumbles" from the fantasy title. We also turned up an interview with Haugen about the challenges of scoring Age of Conan, and of composing interactive music in general.
Warhammer Online Coverage Having fun in Conan's homeland? Make sure to check out all of our previous Age of Conan coverage, and stick with Massively for more news from the Hyborian Age!

MassivelyAge of Conan composer nominated for Best Original Score originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocbest-original-scorefuncomhollywood-music-awardsknut-avenstroup-haugenmusicnominationnorwayosloscoresoundtrackwarcrywarcry-networkTue, 11 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Live Gamer interviewed about regulated RMT]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/live-gamer-interviewed-about-regulated-rmt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/live-gamer-interviewed-about-regulated-rmt/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/live-gamer-interviewed-about-regulated-rmt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We've mentioned a company called Live Gamer in the past here at Massively. Essentially, Live Gamer is attempting to legitimize real money trading (RMT) in virtual spaces, by partnering with game publishers to create a regulated secondary market for item sales and trades. The goal is to integrate RMT with MMOs and virtual worlds and usurp the myriad gold spammers and scammers currently plaguing most virtual spaces that feature economies.

Suzie Ford at WarCry recently interviewed Live Gamer Founder and President Andrew Schneider about how the company plans to change a $2 billion industry presently dominated by the black and grey market. The interview touches on the company's background, how the Live Gamer service works, and overall how they handle some of the polarizing issues of RMT in MMOs. Check out the full interview with Andrew Schneider over at WarCry for a brief overview of what Live Gamer is about.

Does the prospect of having a legitimate, regulated secondary market for avatars, virtual items, and currency in your MMOs seem like a step in the right direction?

MassivelyLive Gamer interviewed about regulated RMT originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-schneiderblack-marketeconomygold-spammergray-marketgrey-marketinterviewslive-gamerreal-money-tradereal-money-tradingrmtscammersspammerssuzie-fordwarcryMon, 20 Oct 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WarCry interview sheds more light on Jumpgate Evolution]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/warcry-interview-sheds-more-light-on-jumpgate-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/warcry-interview-sheds-more-light-on-jumpgate-evolution/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/warcry-interview-sheds-more-light-on-jumpgate-evolution/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


One of the most hotly anticipated sci-fi MMOs on the horizon is Jumpgate Evolution. Despite the videos, screenshots, and bits of fiction that NetDevil has been releasing to stoke interest in the game, some questions remain unanswered -- particularly in terms of continuity with Jumpgate's previous incarnation and how they plan to differentiate themselves from competing MMOs in the genre.

To that end, WarCry has done a Q&A with Hermann Peterscheck, the Producer of Jumpgate Evolution. The interview touches on the challenges faced in the development process and the game's relatively low system requirements. In addition, Peterscheck discusses whether the game is really geared towards hardcore or casual gamers. See the WarCry interview for Peterscheck's views on where the game is and what he hopes it will be for fans of space-based games.

MassivelyWarCry interview sheds more light on Jumpgate Evolution originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>continuityhermann-peterscheckinterviewsjgejumpgatejumpgate-evolutionnetdevilsci-fispacespace-basedwarcryTue, 30 Sep 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[WoW vs. LotRO: The future of MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/16/wow-vs-lotro-the-future-of-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/16/wow-vs-lotro-the-future-of-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/09/16/wow-vs-lotro-the-future-of-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


The comparison is always made between any fantasy-based MMO and World of Warcraft. It's just the nature of the beast these days. In a recent editorial over at Warcry, they compare Lord of the Rings Online with WoW, mainly for the fact that they both have expansions releasing later this year. For WoW, this will be their second in 4 years, while LotRO will be turning out their first in the 1.5 years they've been around.

The article brings up some good points when it comes to how similar the two games are, and goes on to proclaim that the future of MMOs lies in innovation and daring to be different from WoW. While the failure of some recent MMO releases would contradict this theory, it's more of a focus on long-term, while "staying [in the] comfortable WoW nest where it's warm and safe" is more of a short-term solution for competitors.

MassivelyWoW vs. LotRO: The future of MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 16 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardcodemasterseditorialfuture-of-mmosinnovationlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionturbinewarcryworld-of-wacraftwowTue, 16 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Western MMO fan plays Eastern MMO, gets disoriented]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/western-mmo-fan-plays-eastern-mmo-gets-disoriented/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/western-mmo-fan-plays-eastern-mmo-gets-disoriented/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/31/western-mmo-fan-plays-eastern-mmo-gets-disoriented/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There's an article over at The Escapist that tells the story of a hardcore Western-style MMO player who tries out an Eastern-style MMO and experiences a bit of culture shock. The article is written by WarCry Senior Editor John Funk.

The game he tries to play is Mabinogi (of which we've published our own first impressions), and he dedicates himself to playing it for one week. During that week, he plays it for a total of 30 hours. That means he played the same game four and a half hours a day for seven days straight. We're not sure there are many games Western, Eastern, or otherwise that can stand up in that kind of intensity but he weathers through it! Comedy occurs as he struggles to understand random owl visits and perplexing user-interface functionality.

At first it seems like the article is asking if the game mechanics of an Eastern MMO are destined to be completely lost in translation for Western players, but in the end Funk cops out into another direction. Still, it's humorous and occasionally almost insightful, so check it out if the topic interests you.

MassivelyWestern MMO fan plays Eastern MMO, gets disoriented originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 31 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiaeasteasternjohn-funkkoreamabinoginexonsouth-koreathe-escapistwarcrywestwesternSun, 31 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Podcast interviews two Star Trek Online guys, gets lots of new info]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/podcast-interviews-two-star-trek-online-guys-gets-lots-of-new-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/podcast-interviews-two-star-trek-online-guys-gets-lots-of-new-i/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/12/podcast-interviews-two-star-trek-online-guys-gets-lots-of-new-i/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Star Trek gaming podcast Hailing Frequency interviewed Cryptic Studios Chief Creative Officer Jack Emmert in the wake of the big Las Vegas unveiling of Star Trek Online. The two part interview is available in both audio and video, and it's one of the best sources of details beyond the unveiling video itself at this point.

There are a lot of reveals and hints in the interview. Some examples of interview topics: post-launch plans for user-generated content, an economy without a monetary currency, and details about starship combat. Emmert speculates that cross-platform play and non-region-specific servers are possible, but that no final determinations have been made. Listen to the interview for more!

Hailing Frequency also spoke with STO's new community manager, JR Sutich, who is better known to folks in the MMO community as Razor. He was a regular writer at WarCry before he started with Cryptic. That interview, also available in both audio and video, deals exclusively with the game's community and forums.

MassivelyPodcast interviews two Star Trek Online guys, gets lots of new info originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiocombatcommunity-managercross-platformcrypticcryptic-studioscurrencyeconomyforumshailing-frequencyinterviewjack-emmertjr-sutichlas-vegaspodcastrazorrazorwireregionregionsstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestotrekuser-generated-contentvideowarcryTue, 12 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WarCry interviews EVE Lead Designer Noah Ward about the CSM]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/warcry-interviews-eve-lead-designer-noah-ward-about-the-csm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/warcry-interviews-eve-lead-designer-noah-ward-about-the-csm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/warcry-interviews-eve-lead-designer-noah-ward-about-the-csm/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


EVE Online's Council of Stellar Management (CSM) is the title's first attempt at having elected representatives work with CCP Games on improving the game as well as the company's relations with its player base. The initial idea behind the CSM was that it would act as an oversight committee on behalf of the players, in the wake of the 'T20 incident' when a CCP developer unfairly provided a player corporation with certain resources. But this first CSM is largely tasked with improving the transparency of CCP's inner workings, while shaping the game to better fit the play styles of their constituency. The CSM has met online in recent weeks, and with mixed results, but they've now met in-person in Reykjavik, where they also had face-to-face time with the creators of EVE Online.

Jordan Deam from WarCry interviewed EVE Online dev Noah Ward (aka CCP Hammerhead) about what this experiment in 'democratic community management' has yielded thus far, and what it may yet become. The interview focuses heavily on the dynamic between players wanting features added to the game and the undertaking necessary on CCP's part to make these changes a reality. Factional warfare has only just been realized in the game and was four years in the making. Ambulation, or 'Walking in Stations', is slated for a launch in the coming months, after three years of being in the pipeline, Ward said. Have a look at the WarCry interview, and decide for yourself if the CSM is living up to its potential, and if CCP is recapturing the transparency of a small, independent game company as it grows into a much larger entity.

MassivelyWarCry interviews EVE Lead Designer Noah Ward about the CSM originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambulationccpccp-gamescommunitycouncilcsmdevdeveloperselectionempyrean-ageeveeve-onlinefactional-warfaregame-designgame-mechanicshammerheadnoah-wardpoliticsproblemsreykjaviksci-fiwalking-in-stationswarcryWed, 25 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMOs: Are the fees worth it?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/mmos-are-the-fees-worth-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/mmos-are-the-fees-worth-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/mmos-are-the-fees-worth-it/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Do you feel you're getting enough value for your $15 per month MMO subscription? Casual gamers or people who are just too busy at times for games would likely say they're not getting their money's worth. It's one of the big reasons free-to-play business models are becoming increasingly popular. Dave Spohn, who covers internet games at About.com, looks at how game expenses compare to other forms of entertainment.

A lot of MMO gamers use this to justify their time sinks -- but the more time you play, the more value you get for your money. So if you play beyond 10 hours in a given week, you're actually getting your kicks for less than 50 cents per hour. Sometimes you're paying far less than 50 cents if you're a hardcore player of a particular title you sub to. But do you need to rack up ludicrous amounts of gaming time to really get the full benefit from that sub? To answer that question, Spohn looks at a few of the most popular forms of entertainment and breaks down their costs per hour in comparison to subscription games.

Continue reading MMOs: Are the fees worth it?

MassivelyMMOs: Are the fees worth it? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelscasualentertainmentfree-to-playhardcoremmo-industrymoneyopinionsubsubscriptionwarcryTue, 17 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jae Hwan Kim on Exteel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/jae-hwan-kim-on-exteel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/jae-hwan-kim-on-exteel/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/jae-hwan-kim-on-exteel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Exteel is already six months into launch, and it stays kind of quiet not often talked about in MMOG circles. If you haven't heard about this one it's a free-to-play MMOG where players can take up giant robots and smash each other into bits like retro-rats. Several Massively readers even gave it the thumbs up in our launch post. As for recent news we covered the Trooper recently, and the new Last Stand battle mode that interjects a PvE element into the game. The latest information comes from Jae Hwan Kim, Exteel US Producer, in this interview with WarCry.

A genuine concern exists regarding Exteel's well being and sustainability because the game is an Eastern esque MMOG supported by micro transactions. There is a lot more room for failure in the Western market for this type of MMOG. According to Kim, Exteel is doing great and broke a concurrency record last week which is always good news for any MMOG. Also in the interview Kim talks about a few new features coming soon such as the new Clan battle mode, NCcoin versus in-game credits, along with his quick thoughts on game balance. Be sure to check out the official Exteel website where you can download the relatively small client.

MassivelyJae Hwan Kim on Exteel originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deathmatchexteelfree-to-playinterviewjae-hwan-kimnccoinncsoftrmtrobotswarcryFri, 13 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The European connection in 9Dragons]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/the-european-connection-in-9dragons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/the-european-connection-in-9dragons/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/the-european-connection-in-9dragons/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Acclaim's martial arts MMORPG 9Dragons is about to gain some more European fans, with the launch of Bardo Euro -- their new European server. Bardo Euro promises to offer the European playerbase an improved game experience with better connections all around.

Apparently the players have been calling for a European 9Dragons server for some time; Acclaim is delivering on their promises to improve the game and is holding a number of special events to celebrate the launch:

  • 30% off sale: All items in the 9Dragons Item Mall will be 30% off for 3 days only. June 6-8.
  • Bonus exp rate events: Earn 2 times experience points by playing on the Bardo server. June 3-9.
  • Monster spawn event: High level monsters will invade Bardo. June 3-5, 6, 8-9.
  • VGM/GM PvP event: Test your martial arts skills battling against Acclaim VGM and GM staff. June 3-6, 8-9.
  • Fireworks in Bardo: To celebrate the official launch of the European server, fireworks will light up the sky at random times from May 30 to June 8 on the Bardo server.
If you're in Europe, why not give 9Dragons a shot? Roll yourself a Shaolin or Wu-Tang badass and see if you can take down a GM or two in martial arts combat.

Via Warcry

MassivelyThe European connection in 9Dragons originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-dragons9dragonsacclaimasiachinadragoneuropefantasyfireworksgmhistoricalhistoryitemitem-mallitemsmartial-artsnine-dragonspvpserverwarcrywu-tangThu, 05 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An interview with TR's Lead Designer Tom Potter]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/an-interview-with-trs-lead-designer-tom-potter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/an-interview-with-trs-lead-designer-tom-potter/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/an-interview-with-trs-lead-designer-tom-potter/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Recently, WarCry had the chance to sit down with Tabula Rasa's Lead Designer, Tom Potter regarding the state of the game as we see it today. He discusses how successful some of the game's features have been and what they plan for the future of the game. He also touches on Richard Garriott's space flight plans and how involved he still is in the ongoing development of the game. We can't help but wonder what type of inspiration his space flight will evoke.

One of the most interesting pieces of this Q&A is the admission that the game's developers consider themselves more prepared now than they did at launch. While this is perfectly normal for new online games that depend so heavily on the community aspect for its success, it's still interesting to note that Destination Games, being so new to the development world, have finally licked their wounds and are ready to move forward full charge! This includes plans to offer incentives for existing players to stay, and more free trial periods to entice new players to come see what the game is really all about.

MassivelyAn interview with TR's Lead Designer Tom Potter originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 May 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesdevelopmentncsoftrichard-garriotttabula-rasatom-potterwarcryThu, 22 May 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Industry notables discuss the state of MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/industry-notables-discuss-the-state-of-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/industry-notables-discuss-the-state-of-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/industry-notables-discuss-the-state-of-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Featuring a list of some influential and knowledgeable entities from the MMO universe, there's an extensive discussion of the "State of the MMO" over at WarCry. Including executives like SOE President John Smedley, game designers like EVE Online's Chantel Zuurmond, and industry reporters like IGN PC Executive Editor Steve Butts, there's enough of a broad base here to give a good insight into what's going on these days in the field.

The topics range from "How can companies compete with World of Warcraft" to "How development costs affect innovation", and many more. It's a great read, and full of valuable nuggets of information for your ruminating pleasure.

MassivelyIndustry notables discuss the state of MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 May 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chantel-zuurmondeve-onlineigninterviewjohn-smedleysonystate-of-the-mmosteve-buttswarcryworld-of-warcraftThu, 01 May 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE approaches fives years of virtual adventure]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/eve-approaches-fives-years-of-virtual-adventure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/eve-approaches-fives-years-of-virtual-adventure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/eve-approaches-fives-years-of-virtual-adventure/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


"I hope they take the servers down so I can go get a shower." It is good to see EVE has not changed since it first blinked into existence. So many memories, so many destroyed ships, so many hours spent hauling ore from can to station. As EVE approaches the five year mark on the 6th of May, public relations and communications director Valerie Massey docked her ship and logged off. Why did she log off exactly? To chat about EVE of course! What else is there to do when not playing EVE?

At five years, EVE is getting a bit on the old side in terms of MMOs. That didn't stop CCP of course. They gave EVE one hell of a Botox injection, hired an ex-commando for a trainer, and put the game into damn fine shape. Trinity was a huge testament to the ability of CCP and EVE to change and grow in very good ways. As Valerie says, the company itself started off with a handful of team members watching their dream become reality on a projector screen. They now employ over three hundred people and can claim a playerbase of over 200,000. From all of us at Massively, happy birthday! We hope the pod popping and ice mining continues for years to come.

MassivelyEVE approaches fives years of virtual adventure originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpeveeve-onlineeve-trinitytrinityvalerie-masseywarcrywarcry-networkFri, 18 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The sun also rises on a post-apocalyptic world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/the-sun-also-rises-on-a-post-apocalyptic-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/the-sun-also-rises-on-a-post-apocalyptic-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/03/20/the-sun-also-rises-on-a-post-apocalyptic-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


"[Earthrise is] a game that is about freedom. [It is] not the usual fantasy MMO." So says George Petrov, the Technical Director for Bulgarian based Masthead Studios' post-apocalyptic, sci-fi MMO.

In a recent interview, Petrov explains that the game takes place on the island of Enterra, which they hope to make one continuous area. They don't like instances so players should be able to run from one end of the world to another devoid of load screens. While they're not guaranteeing anything at this point, they hope to also have the whole of the game and it's players reside in a single world.

The screenshots (not all of which are available on the official website) released so far, and which have increased in regularity over the last few weeks, shows an artistic, photorealistic world. Mastheads plans on making sure Earthrise runs on as many machines as possible by offering scalable graphics options. Petrov said they aren't proponents of the microtransaction business model, so expect a monthly subscription fee like most U.S. based MMOs.

[via WarCry]

MassivelyThe sun also rises on a post-apocalyptic world originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthriseGeorge-Petrovmasthead-studiospost-apocalypticwarcryThu, 20 Mar 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Murloc Card giveaway at Warcry]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/10/murloc-card-giveaway-at-warcry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/10/murloc-card-giveaway-at-warcry/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/10/murloc-card-giveaway-at-warcry/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Here's some cool news for a Sunday afternoon. The folks over at Warcry are currently holding a competition to giveaway 5 Murloc Cards for World of Warcraft.

These cards were part of the goodies given away by Blizzard to Blizzcon 2007 attendees, and would cost you somewhere in the region of $200, should you choose to get one from eBay. Not only do you get access to a Murloc Suit for one of your characters in-game, but you also get access to a future Blizzard beta, sadly not identified yet.

Outside of the Spectral Tiger mount, the Murloc Suit is the one piece of WoW loot that I would love to own, so unless you have the money to spare, it maybe worth your while visiting Warcry. Just make sure you come right back to Massively afterwards though :)

MassivelyMurloc Card giveaway at Warcry originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 10 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardblizzconcontestgiveawaymurloc-suitspectral-tigerwarcryworld-of-warcraftwowSun, 10 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Writing a Stargate story]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/writing-a-stargate-story/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/writing-a-stargate-story/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/08/writing-a-stargate-story/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


WarCry has a very interesting dev journal up from Sean Dugan, the Lead Content Designer for Stargate Worlds. In the entry Sean asks, "When I say Stargate, what do you think of?" Good question, especially when you consider that the show has 10 years worth of mythology, a movie, and two TV shows (with one more on the way). The bottom line: each us has a different interpretation of what Stargate is, and that becomes their biggest problem when creating content for SGW.

With all of that, where do you set the game? After all the research was done CME found a "sweet spot" -- between seasons 8 and 9 in the SG-1 timeline -- to plop what takes place in SGW without violating canon. The line these guys have to walk is so thin it makes Paris Hilton look obese. They have to simultaneously keep the game fun and exciting without stepping over canon boundaries, all the while not letting the series characters overshadow the players characters. Wow. I for one can't wait to see the final results. Check out Sean's entry, then come back here and let us know your thoughts. What comes to mind when you think of Stargate, and are you looking forward to the upcoming MMO?

MassivelyWriting a Stargate story originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 08 Feb 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cheyenne-Mountain-EntertinamentLoreMGM-InteractiveSean-DuganSG-1SGWStargate-WorldsWarCryFri, 08 Feb 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Razorwire snaps at TR vet reward]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/razorwire-snaps-at-tr-vet-reward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/razorwire-snaps-at-tr-vet-reward/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/razorwire-snaps-at-tr-vet-reward/#commentsFiled under: , ,


In our daily internet travails this morning we were a bit surprised to see Warcry's razorwire taking a bit of a nasty shot at the Tabula Rasa community crew for having included a joke 3-month-veteran award instead of something "cool" like black armor. He further postulates that one of the artists for the game probably put a lot of work into the model for his furry fandom, and wanted to validate that work by including it in the game somehow. I'm not quite sure if he was trying to be funny or edgy or whether he was actually genuinely angry about having a unicorn mask left in his bag for being a 3-month veteran. Seems a bit of an overreaction either way, and he appears to have missed the point.

Anybody who has followed Tabula Rasa for a few years now no doubt remembers when the game's development was rebooted due to a lack of design focus. Back then, the game featured a lot of eccentricities that were more befitting the East Asian audience the game was originally trying to court. One of those eccentricities was an abundance of unicorns in the early builds of the game, which delighted some and confused most. Back in November we found one of the early trailers of the game and were similarly confused by the unicorn to people ratio. It was quite high. Still, I think the unicorn mask is a fun little self-deprecating joke with the fans who are most likely to "get it." Moreover, we know full well we're not getting our charcoal paint for another week, so what's the sense in crying about it?

MassivelyRazorwire snaps at TR vet reward originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destination-gamesrazorwiretabula-rasatrunicornveteran-rewardwarcryTue, 05 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Warhammer Online beta shutdown unlikely]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/another-warhammer-online-beta-shutdown-unlikely/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/another-warhammer-online-beta-shutdown-unlikely/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/another-warhammer-online-beta-shutdown-unlikely/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


In the latest in Warcry's endless series of stunted and random interviews with the Warhammer Online team, they actually asked a question of substance that many players, myself included, have been wondering about for some time now. Specifically, the EA Mythic team rates their two-month beta timeout as an "overwhelming success," saying that it gave the development team an opportunity to step up and deliver on the all the changes that had been prompted by the previous phase of the beta. And perhaps most importantly, they rated the likelihood of another beta closure before the commercial release as unlikely, though they didn't make any promises. Barring a delay of final launch date, it's hard to foresee a reason why they would need to, but it's nice to see those comments on the table finally. They also commented briefly on the Blood Dark Elf Disciples of Khaine and the in-game benefits afforded by the city siege mechanic.

We understand why both Warcry and EA Mythic would want to parse out content like this over time to keep readers interested in a game and coming back for more, but you're seriously going to put up an interview with four questions? Really? You asked all you had to ask in four questions? If it's going to be that way...

MassivelyAnother Warhammer Online beta shutdown unlikely originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 29 Jan 2008 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaea-mythicinterviewwarcrywarhammer-onlineTue, 29 Jan 2008 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online dev team laid off yesterday]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/star-trek-online-dev-team-laid-off/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/star-trek-online-dev-team-laid-off/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/18/star-trek-online-dev-team-laid-off/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

According to WarCry's sources at P2 Entertainment, yesterday was the last day at work for the members of the Star Trek Online development team. We already heard that some of the team went over to Cryptic Studios for job interviews, but we didn't hear what they might be working on. It might be STO if Cryptic are the ones who purchased the license and content from P2.

Everyone at Massively is anticipating specifics about the fate of STO, but the internet community is sitting in the dark for the time being. While we wait for the lights to come back on, we want to wish all the STO refugees the best of luck as they boldly go to whatever strange new worlds await them.

MassivelyStar Trek Online dev team laid off yesterday originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jan 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cryptic-studioslayoffsp2-entertainmentperpetual-entertainmentstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestowarcryFri, 18 Jan 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online is under new management]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/star-trek-online-is-under-new-management/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/star-trek-online-is-under-new-management/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/14/star-trek-online-is-under-new-management/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

According to WarCry, The Studio Formerly Known as Perpetual Entertainment -- or just "P2 Entertainment" if you want to be less facetious -- has passed or sold ownership of the Star Trek Online project to a new studio headquartered in (fittingly) the Bay Area. This comes after a rocky history for the title, starting with the cancellation of Perpetual's other title Gods & Heroes, all sorts of corporate maneuvering, and a lawsuit.

WarCry did not reveal the name of the new steward, but it did learn that while the game's license and content (such as artwork, one presumes) were transferred, the code wasn't. So the new STO team is starting from pretty close to scratch. If you were hoping for a 2008 release, it's time to be disappointed; though at this point none of this is a huge surprise.

We don't know if the new owners are related to P2, if any of the old team will be moving with the project, or anything else, really. More info and some clarifications are sure to come eventually, though, so sit tight.

MassivelyStar Trek Online is under new management originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Jan 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbusinessp2perpetual-entertainmentstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestowarcryMon, 14 Jan 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[To pay or not to pay ... is that really the question?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/to-pay-or-not-to-pay-is-that-really-the-question/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/to-pay-or-not-to-pay-is-that-really-the-question/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/01/09/to-pay-or-not-to-pay-is-that-really-the-question/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


There's an editorial over at WarCry that's part opinion piece, part year-in-review, making the case that 2007 saw the demise of the subscription model -- paying a monthly fee for your favorite MMO. There is some sound reasoning in the piece, and it's a good read. However, I don't believe that people are unwilling to pay to play anymore. The simple fact is, people will pay for what they value, and right now the overwhelmingly valued property is World of Warcraft.

No one would be happier than I would if WoW magically went to a free model overnight. Paying the monthly fee is why I don't play for months on end. However, WoW seems to be hitting me just right -- no other MMO, free to play or not, approaches the experience I receive from WoW. I'm constantly trying new games of course, and I've just started up with Guild Wars (which, of course, is free to play). If I run across something that scratches that itch, I have no problem paying a monthly fee -- even sporadically, as I do with WoW. So it's not that the model itself is invalid, it's just that right now, there's still a lot of interest in WoW, and people can only give so much time to an MMO; of course one title will get the lion's share.

Continue reading To pay or not to pay ... is that really the question?

MassivelyTo pay or not to pay ... is that really the question? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 Jan 2008 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanblizzardfreeguild-warssubscriptionvaluewarcrywarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwow-killerwrath-of-the-lich-kingWed, 09 Jan 2008 07:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkfall developer talks specifics about game]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/22/darkfall-developer-talks-specifics-about-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/22/darkfall-developer-talks-specifics-about-game/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/22/darkfall-developer-talks-specifics-about-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Darkfall is an up-and-coming MMO that we haven't given much time to on Massively, but reading over this recently-released 'Dev Journal' on the WarCry Network, it sounds like there's a lot there to sustain interest.

Just from this latest Journal entry by Tasos Flambouras, I'm picking out intriguing details:
  • No radar: meaning that it's possible to engage in guerilla tactics and not have retaliation easily track you out of line of sight
  • Alignment matters: it sounds like the only thing a player should concern himself over is his alignment, even more than guild alliance. Your moral posture will determine the method of play
  • Multirace guilds, or clans: this sounds similar to Horde vs. Alliance interplay, but with a little more complexity
  • Real-time combat: body strike location, weapon range, friendly fire, multiple opponent strikes with a single swing ... sounds like the Age of Conan take on combat, but with just ... more
Now, I'm not saying there aren't other games out there that offer these things and more, but these guys have the advantage of being in development and learning from other MMO mistakes. Read all about Darkfall on its website.

MassivelyDarkfall developer talks specifics about game originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Dec 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanalignmentalliancedarkfallguerillahorderadartasos-flambouraswarcryworld-of-warcraftSat, 22 Dec 2007 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[STO interview comes with first non-space screenshot]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/sto-interview-comes-with-first-non-space-screenshot/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/sto-interview-comes-with-first-non-space-screenshot/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/sto-interview-comes-with-first-non-space-screenshot/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


WarCry interviewed Perpetual Entertainment's Daron Stinnett, the head honcho on the Star Trek Online project.

The interview itself contains very little new information; it covers the reasoning behind the new art style, the interaction system described in the most recent devlog, and the balance between space and land combat. Stinnett also squashes (again) the rumor that STO is going casual and tries to alleviate concerns that STO's future might be in jeopardy. He doesn't convince us that Perpetual is totally out of the woods just yet, but there's no way to know for sure.

Really, the best part about the interview is the new screenshot, and the best thing about the new screenshot is the revelation of how dead-on that old tongue-in-cheek fan video was.

MassivelySTO interview comes with first non-space screenshot originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artcombatdaron-stinnettinteractioninterviewland-combatperpetual-entertainmentrumorsscreenshotstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestowarcryThu, 13 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Trinity trailer makes Sci-Fi geeks gasp in awe [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/new-trinity-trailer-makes-sci-fi-geeks-gasp-in-awe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/new-trinity-trailer-makes-sci-fi-geeks-gasp-in-awe/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/new-trinity-trailer-makes-sci-fi-geeks-gasp-in-awe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

CCP just released this two-minute trailer for EVE Online's upcoming Trinity expansion. It's a longer and cooler trailer than the one that was shown at the Fanfest in Reykjavik. Trinity is adding a lot of things, but one of the most significant is a major graphics update, and that's what this trailer focuses on.

The new shader effects are very impressive, especially when they're exhibited with such epic music. It looks like EVE is reclaiming its crown as the best-looking MMO on the market. While it's easier to make spaceships and planets look realistic and amazing than it is to make humanoids look convincing, the new EVE visuals are still awesome.

Assuming nothing goes wrong, Trinity will go live next week.

[EDIT: GameTrailers has posted the trailer in HD. Commence drooling.]

MassivelyNew Trinity trailer makes Sci-Fi geeks gasp in awe [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Nov 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpeveeve-onlineeve-trinityeve-trinity-trailerexpansiongraphicsshader-effectsshaderstrailertrinityvideowarcryMon, 26 Nov 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EQOA team struggling to put a new game on an old system]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/eqoa-team-struggling-to-put-a-new-game-on-an-old-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/eqoa-team-struggling-to-put-a-new-game-on-an-old-system/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/eqoa-team-struggling-to-put-a-new-game-on-an-old-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Warcry has an interesting interview up with Clint Worley, a man given a strange task: take an MMO released on a last generation console (that requires a hard-to-find network component to play), and keep it as new as possible. Worley is the Senior Producer for EverQuest Online Adventures, a casual console MMO experiment Sony released for the PS2 that's somehow still kicking around. The game's audience is super limited (as are the old console's abilities at this point), and so Worley is facing some pretty tough challenges.

He says that Sony doesn't think it has the players there to justify an actual expansion, but that they also want new content to be pushed out, so the EQOA team (also rapidly shrinking, apparently, as devs move on to newer games) is being asked to make new content, but not too much. Also, the PS2's limited memory doesn't help either-- new content has be released as server-side changes, which, Worley says, makes new art or zones a no-no.

Still, they have gotten some cool things done, including some holiday quests and events. To my mind, this would be an amazing environment to experiment in-- because of the small player base, the devs could work very closely with the players to make sure and get the game just right. And the limited memory means that you'd have to experiment with new types of gameplay, not just throwing a new coat of paint on the old grinding areas. Who knows how long EQOA will be around, but until they shut the last server down, I'd imagine that team has some cool opportunities on hand.

MassivelyEQOA team struggling to put a new game on an old system originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Nov 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clint-worelyconsoleeverquesteverquest-online-adventuresinterviewps2sonysony-onlinewarcryThu, 22 Nov 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SGW builder describes the challenges of making an MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/sgw-builder-describes-the-challenges-of-making-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/sgw-builder-describes-the-challenges-of-making-an-mmo/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/sgw-builder-describes-the-challenges-of-making-an-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

French Stargate SG-1/Atlantis fan site Stargate Fusion landed an interview with Stargate Worlds world builder Josh Kurtz. The interview understandably represents a Stargate SG-1 fan's interests more than it does those of a gamer, but presumably if you're interested in SGW at this early point in development you're already a fan of the franchise to begin with.

Kurtz talked about the relationship the SGW team has with the producers of the TV series and about the rules the team follows to make sure they stay faithful to the source material. He also described the challenges of making an MMO, saying "the MMO market is a dangerous place because to be honest the exploration of how to build one and what will make a good one has only just begun."

He's confident (of course) that the team at Cheyenne Mountain Entertainment is going to be able to rise up to the occasion and produce a top tier game.

[Via WarCry]

MassivelySGW builder describes the challenges of making an MMO originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 21 Nov 2007 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>builderchallengescheyenne-mountain-entertainmentfrenchinterviewjosh-kurtzmmo-marketsg1sgwstargatestargate-fusionstargate-worldstvwarcryWed, 21 Nov 2007 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Vince D'Amelio has your answers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/vince-damelio-has-your-answers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/vince-damelio-has-your-answers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/vince-damelio-has-your-answers/#commentsFiled under:

Have a question you'd like to pose to Vince D'Amelio, City of Heroes Senior Programmer? If so, the WarCry Network wants to hear from you.

The concept behind the "Ask a Dev" series is elegant in its simplicity: find a CoX developer who has the time to answer questions, ask the community what questions they most wish answered, then put the two together and have the issues addressed by the minds behind the game.

So go ahead, ask your questions, you know you want to. And remember, there's no such thing as a stupid question, only a stupid Rikti.

MassivelyVince D'Amelio has your answers originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ask-a-DevCity-of-HeroesCommunityCoXDeveloperQ-and-AQuestionsRiktiSenior-ProgrammerVince-DAmelioWarCryWarCry-NetworkThu, 15 Nov 2007 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR's Swordmaster dances with swords]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/wars-swordmaster-dances-with-swords/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/wars-swordmaster-dances-with-swords/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/14/wars-swordmaster-dances-with-swords/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Warcry has the details from an EA newsletter about the Swordmaster class in the upcoming Warhammer Online. The class is apparently exclusive to High Elves, and combines grace, speed, and balance along with a big swinging sword and a little magic thrown in there. EA also says the Swordmasters are known for wielding the Great Sword of Hoeth, so does that mean you get one sword and keep it for your character's lifetime. Interesting.

At any rate, it's cool to see that not only is Mythic digging deep into the existing Warhammer lore for their class definitions, but that they're using those same definitions to innovate the traditional MMO roles (the class sounds like melee DPS with a bit of magic to it, which is definitely cool). As you probably already know, the Warhammer closed beta is offline right now (and will be back on in December), but we're expecting the game later next year.

MassivelyWAR's Swordmaster dances with swords originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Nov 2007 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesea-mythicgreat-sword-of-heothonlineroleswarcrywarhammerwarhammer-onlineWed, 14 Nov 2007 18:41:00 EST<![CDATA[WarCry's "War on the Impossible" part 4 details EVE's Trinity expansion]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/warcrys-war-on-the-impossible-part-4-details-eves-trinity-ex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/warcrys-war-on-the-impossible-part-4-details-eves-trinity-ex/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/warcrys-war-on-the-impossible-part-4-details-eves-trinity-ex/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The folks at CCP are nothing if not ambitious. They're more willing to take risks and try new things with EVE Online than a lot of other developers are with their respective games. So far it's paid off; EVE has a very large and passionate fan base. So large and passionate, in fact, that they annually hold a huge Fanfest in Reykjavik.

We provided a list of all the best coverage of the event, but one item on the list stands out enough to warrant a plug of its own. WarCry has been rolling out a series of articles on EVE Online as coverage for this year's conference. All together it's called "The War on the Impossible" after CCP's new slogan. Part IV of this series was just launched. This time the focus is on the Trinity expansion, which includes a graphical overhaul, a revised voice chat system, and many new or tweaked gameplay elements.

In case you missed the earlier articles; Part I was an introduction to CCP's big moves and plans for the game. Part II was about the panel debate between Richard Bartle and Jessica Mulligan on CCP's plans to democratize the world of EVE, and Part III described "Ambulation" in detail. The articles aren't purely informative; WarCry weighs the consequences of each change. If you play EVE, you'll find that this series is one of the best summaries of the changes on the horizon. If you don't play EVE, it's exciting reading anyway because of the audacity of some of CCP's plans.

MassivelyWarCry's "War on the Impossible" part 4 details EVE's Trinity expansion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambulationccpdemocracyeveeve-onlineeve-trinityexpansionfanfestgraphicstrinityupdatevoicewar-on-the-impossiblewarcryTue, 13 Nov 2007 10:15:00 EST