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[DDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

DDO Menace of the Underdark
Speaking of Guinness World Records for video games, I wonder whether Dungeons and Dragons Online would be eligible for "Longest time between game release and launch of its first expansion?" Six years may just be the longest we've ever witnessed, as DDO released in 2006, and it wasn't until 2012 that Menace of the Underdark was revealed. The good news is that come June 25th, the drought will be over.

We asked Turbine why now seemed like a good time for an expansion. The devs said that Atari had made some noise back in the day about one, but it never came to fruition. With the success of free-to-play, Turbine wanted to see whether the expansion model was still viable, so Lord of the Rings Online was chosen as a test subject. When Rise of Isengard became the best-selling expansion for the company, the company felt secure letting DDO have a chance, although there was quite a lot of wrangling with Wizards of the Coast about the details and permissions.

Record or no, it's an exciting event for DDO players, and the today, Turbine has announced the two biggest details for the expansion's schedule. The first is that Menace of the Underdark has a release date, and the second is the opening of pre-orders. Read on to get all of the juicy infos.

Continue reading DDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders

MassivelyDDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baldurs-gateddodruiddruid-classdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronepic-destiniesf2pfeaturedFernando-Paizforgotten-realmsfree-to-playmenace-of-the-underdarkneverwinter-nightspre-orderpreorderra-Salvatoretome-of-learningturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-12update-13update-14wizards-of-the-coastwotcMon, 27 Feb 2012 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Unraveling DDO's Web of Chaos: Turbine talks Update 13]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/unraveling-ddos-web-of-chaos-turbine-talks-update-13/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/unraveling-ddos-web-of-chaos-turbine-talks-update-13/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/unraveling-ddos-web-of-chaos-turbine-talks-update-13/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DDO
The vanguard of the free-to-play MMO movement is bearing down on the industry this spring, as Dungeons and Dragons Online prepares for its sixth birthday, its 13th update, and its first expansion. We sat down with Turbine Executive Producer Fernando Paiz and Senior Producer Eric Boyer to talk about this coming Monday's Update 13 and what players have to look forward to once it goes live.

Update 13 comes at what could be seen as a renaissance in the game's history. Following DDO's transition to F2P, Turbine saw an upsurge in players and profits that continues to this day. Paiz said that "the game is doing very well," and while he did not disclose numbers, he feels that DDO's status as one of the first F2P adaptations gave it a lead that others have yet to overtake.

Even so, with only five updates in 2011, it's hard to deny that DDO has faded into the background somewhat as newer titles and more recent F2P transitions hogged the spotlight. Turbine means to rectify this: "I think it's safe to say that this year we're making some noise again," Paiz said confidently. He went on to share just why this Monday's patch will be one of the most pivitol in DDO's history.

Continue reading Unraveling DDO's Web of Chaos: Turbine talks Update 13

MassivelyUnraveling DDO's Web of Chaos: Turbine talks Update 13 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6th-anniversaryanniversaryddoddo-storedungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberroneric-boyerexpansionf2pfeaturedFernando-Paizforgotten-realmsfree-to-playgalleryin-game-storeinterviewlolthmenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotssixth-anniversayspinner-of-shadowsstormreachtometurbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-13web-of-chaoswizards-of-the-coastThu, 23 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: August 29-September 4, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/mv-guide-august-29-september-4-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/mv-guide-august-29-september-4-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/mv-guide-august-29-september-4-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

RIFT screenshot
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively's Livestream channel.

Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of titles to take a look at. During livestream events, you can participate in the live chat, ask questions to learn about the game, and simply spend some time with Massively staff and readers. (Of course, livestream events are subject to the whims of outside forces like server-side gremlins once in a while.)

Follow along after the jump to see what's scheduled for this week!

Continue reading MV Guide: August 29-September 4, 2011

MassivelyMV Guide: August 29-September 4, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cryptic-studiosface-of-mankindkingsisle-entertainmentlivestreamlivestreamingmagic-the-gathering-onlinemv-guidemv-tvnexeonperfect-world-entertainmentriftstar-trek-onlinestotrion-worldswizard101wizards-of-the-coastMon, 29 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: Massively's interview with the author of the first DDO novel]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/exclusive-massivelys-interview-with-the-author-of-the-first-dd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/exclusive-massivelys-interview-with-the-author-of-the-first-dd/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/exclusive-massivelys-interview-with-the-author-of-the-first-dd/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Tie-in novels are nothing new in the world of MMOs. We've had several in the last year alone, both for Guild Wars 2 and for RuneScape.

You can add the world of Eberron to that list, as the first Dungeons and Dragons Online novel will be hitting the shelves this September. It's early days, of course, but we've spent some time chatting with the author of The Shard Axe. Marsheila "Marcy" Rockwell has completed the book's final draft and had lots to say about what fans will find in this novelized version of Xen'drik. Follow along after the jump for your first look at The Shard Axe!

Continue reading Exclusive: Massively's interview with the author of the first DDO novel

MassivelyExclusive: Massively's interview with the author of the first DDO novel originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-noveldndDungeons-and-Dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexclusivefeaturedmarcy-rockwellmarion-zimmer-bradleymarsheila-rockwellnovelthe-shard-axeturbineTurbine-EntertainmentWizards-of-the-CoastTue, 15 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The siege continues as DDO launches Update 8]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/the-siege-continues-as-ddo-launches-update-8/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/the-siege-continues-as-ddo-launches-update-8/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/the-siege-continues-as-ddo-launches-update-8/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Massively has been hinting that Dungeons and Dragons Online Update 8 would be out soon, and now it is here! We knew Turbine would not let us down.

The siege on Lordsmarch Palace rages on in the Attack on Stormreach. A green Hag controls monstrous forces in this ever-expanding plot. Adventurers launch on four different death-defying quests stretching on, over, and under Stormreach, battling the evil armada from Droaam. Take defensive positions against an Ogre General and his army in the Assault on Summerfield; sneak out in the darkness of night and sabotage Droaam mine-laying ships in Blockade Buster; counter a sneak-attack in the tunnels under Lordsmarch Palace courtyard in Undermine; finally, battle through ruins just outside Stormreach where the villainous army is opening a portal directly to Droaam.

Beyond the expansive new quests, Update 8 features four unique cosmetic armor sets with 11 unique appearances each.

If classic good-vs.-evil fantasy warfare is your thing, you will want to head over to the official site and download the patch now! (Well, after you peek at the gallery, of course.)

Gallery: DDO Update 8 Launch

MassivelyThe siege continues as DDO launches Update 8 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attack-on-stormreachddo-update-8Dungeons-and-Dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinegallerygreen-haglaunchMedusapatchscreenshotsturbineupdate-8Wizards-of-the-CoastMon, 13 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring (the rest of) Eberron]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/exploring-the-rest-of-eberron/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/exploring-the-rest-of-eberron/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/exploring-the-rest-of-eberron/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

By the time you read this, I'll be scampering about GenCon in Indianapolis, thick in the middle of four days of gaming and geekery. Don't weep for me, for I am already gone! One of my hopes for this weekend is to reconnect with pen-and-paper RPGs, a part of my gaming life that has almost withered into nothingness.

That got me thinking about Eberron -- the D&D campaign in which DDO is set. You don't hear DDO players fussing about it so much any more (people either made their peace with it or moved on), but way back when, the Eberron setting was a fairly controversial choice for Turbine to make. After all, there are dozens upon dozens of campaign settings, including some (like Forgotten Realms or Dragonlance) that most people associate with the franchise.

Eberron, on the other hand, was a relatively wet-behind-the-ears upstart with a quirky setting that can best be described as "Indiana Jones meets steampunk meets flashy, practical magic." Personally, I've grown to like the campaign, and I want to take a look at how the pen-and-paper version was constructed, how the Eberron setting shines in DDO, and how Turbine could be using it more.

Continue reading Exploring (the rest of) Eberron

MassivelyExploring (the rest of) Eberron originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artificerbaldurs-gatechangelingsclassesdaelkyr-half-bloodsddodruiddungeons-and-dragonseberronexploring-eberronfeaturedfilm-noirgnomeshalf-orckalashtarkhovairekieth-bakerneverwinter-nightspsiforgedpsionicspsychicpsychic-warriorpulp-adventurepulp-fictionracesshifterssoulknifesteampunkstormreachtheres-no-race-like-gnometurbinewarforgedWizards-of-the-CoastxendrikFri, 06 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hasbro/Wizards of the Coast sues Atari over Dungeons & Dragons rights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/hasbro-wizards-of-the-coast-sues-atari-over-dungeons-and-dragons-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/hasbro-wizards-of-the-coast-sues-atari-over-dungeons-and-dragons-r/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/hasbro-wizards-of-the-coast-sues-atari-over-dungeons-and-dragons-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

You might be wondering right now, "What's Massively doing covering a lawsuit between two companies that aren't MMO companies over a non-MMO product?" Well, dear readers, if you would come with us on a trip down memory lane, you might remember a certain MMO developer suing a certain publisher over a certain set of rights pertaining to, you guessed it, Dungeons & Dragons Online.

Well, it seems that Atari has sub-licensed the Dungeons & Dragons rights out to Namco-Bandai, and Hasbro isn't too fond of that. Namco-Bandai is seen as a competitor to Hasbro's products, and Hasbro's contract with Atari specifically forbids them from doing any licensing like this. Namco-Bandai has recently purchased Atari's distribution wing in Europe, renaming it to Namco-Bandai partners.

Continue reading Hasbro/Wizards of the Coast sues Atari over Dungeons & Dragons rights

MassivelyHasbro/Wizards of the Coast sues Atari over Dungeons & Dragons rights originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribreakingcompetitorcryptic-studiosdnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinehasbrolegalnamco-bandaineverwinter-nights-mmoturbinewizards-of-the-coastFri, 18 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Engage your DDO groove in this Sorrowdusk Isle video]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/engage-your-ddo-groove-in-this-sorrowdusk-isle-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/engage-your-ddo-groove-in-this-sorrowdusk-isle-video/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/engage-your-ddo-groove-in-this-sorrowdusk-isle-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Turbine's DDO: Unlimited is without a doubt a bold and creative move in the MMO industry, and so we like to pay attention to their content packs for the game -- especially since we know there are those of you out there who're gaming on a budget.

This video for Sorrowdusk Isle does a very good job of visually conveying what you'll get with your purchase, but somehow the music feels, um, well wrong. The techno-inspired beats aren't bad, it's just odd when watching warriors slay monsters feels a little too much like a rave from the early 90s. Then again, who're we to judge? Maybe that's the next Adventure Pack: The House of Trance Jungle.

Check out the video after the break, and feel your foot tap to the beat.

Continue reading Engage your DDO groove in this Sorrowdusk Isle video

MassivelyEngage your DDO groove in this Sorrowdusk Isle video originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-unlimiteddungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronsorrowdusk-isletrailerturbinevideowizards-of-the-coastwotcThu, 01 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO Unlimited solidifies its Sept. 9th launch]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/ddo-unlimited-solidifies-its-sept-9th-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/ddo-unlimited-solidifies-its-sept-9th-launch/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/ddo-unlimited-solidifies-its-sept-9th-launch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It looks like Dungeons & Dragons Online: Eberron Unlimited won't be seeing another delay, as Turbine has announced that the revamped version of the game has gone gold. Of course, while such a concept doesn't really have the same meaning in the digital world, it's a good way of saying they're completely ready for prime time.

Current subscribers will be getting an early start with the game on Sept. 1st, instead of having to wait for the official North America launch on Sept. 9th. Turbine has always been exceedingly gracious towards their subscribers, so we wouldn't have expected anything less from the company.

If you're wondering what all this is about, you can check out Massively's previous coverage of the new additions through our features and image gallery.

Gallery: DDO Unlimited Tour

MassivelyDDO Unlimited solidifies its Sept. 9th launch originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If you're interested in playing Dungeons and Dragons: Online Unlimited (or already subscribe to the game) then this is a DDOcast that you absolutely shouldn't miss. It's packed to the rafters with information about upcoming additions such as MyDDO, the social website that we're sure will be as big a hit with players as MyLotRO.

Something of particular interest to us is the discussion of Half-Orcs, although we're certain most players are excited to hear talk of full character respecs. The only thing that could've got our geeky blood pumping faster would be Turbine talking 4th Edition and the brand new Eberron books -- specifically concerning Mournland and the newly revamped Artificer class. Then again, we're not even sure their license covers any of that, but it would make for an interesting podcast nonetheless.

Our plan? Boot up DDO sometime very soon and hit the play button on iTunes. There's nothing like a double-dose of Turbine goodness. Well okay, maybe some actual table-top D&D with old friends -- but what videogame can compete with something like that? It's practically inconceivable.

MassivelyDDOcast brings the goods on MyDDO, full respecs and more originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddocastdnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinemy-ddomy-lotromyddoturbinewizards-of-the-coastwotcTue, 21 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's DDO Unlimited developer tour, part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/massivelys-ddo-unlimited-developer-tour-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/massivelys-ddo-unlimited-developer-tour-part-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/30/massivelys-ddo-unlimited-developer-tour-part-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Continue reading Massively's DDO Unlimited developer tour, part 2

MassivelyMassively's DDO Unlimited developer tour, part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodev-tourdungeons-and-dragons-onlinefavored-soulhezrouscreensscreenshotscreenshotsturbinewizards-of-the-coastwotcTue, 30 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO: Eberron Unlimited details surface, new class revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/ddo-eberron-unlimited-details-surface-new-class-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/ddo-eberron-unlimited-details-surface-new-class-revealed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/ddo-eberron-unlimited-details-surface-new-class-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Well, we can't say we exactly saw this one coming. Turbine has pulled back the curtain on some details for Dungeons & Dragons Online: Eberron Unlimited, namely the new class being added with the major business model shift. Although, we've also learned there'll be new combat updates and a return of Stormreach's marketplace, which was destroyed last year.

As for the new class, it's been revealed to be the Favored Soul. According to Turbine's press release, "Favored souls draw on divine magic to both heal and destroy. Like clerics, favored souls have access to powerful healing spells, but they are also more skilled with weapons than any other spell caster. Like sorcerers, they get a larger number of spell points than other spell casters and cannot freely switch spells at taverns or rest shrines." So it sounds like we're dealing with a cross between a Cleric and a Sorcerer, which is pretty awesome actually. What sorts of weapons -- and screens of the class itself -- remains to be seen, sadly.

Still, we should have even more details in the coming weeks and hopefully Dungeons & Dragons Online: Eberron Unlimited will launch sometime this summer.

MassivelyDDO: Eberron Unlimited details surface, new class revealed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaddodungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-online-unlimitedeberronfavored-soulfree-to-playsubscriptionturbinewizards-of-the-coastwotcWed, 24 Jun 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Summertime MMO alternatives]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/the-digital-continuum-summertime-mmo-alternatives/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/the-digital-continuum-summertime-mmo-alternatives/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/the-digital-continuum-summertime-mmo-alternatives/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You, much like myself, may have had summer MMO plans a month or so ago. But like many things in life, circumstances changed and both Champions Online and Jumpgate Evolution were met with delays in their schedules -- making any plans to play them over the summer null.

It's a bummer, but not all is lost. Another thing I'm certain we all share is our love of gaming in general. I've been thinking of a list of games I plan to play through this summer in lieu of shiny new MMOs to delve into, with an emphasis on filling the void left by a lack Cryptic's and NetDevil's still forthcoming titles. I'm sure I'll play more than just three, but these are the ones I'll definitely play the most of overall.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Summertime MMO alternatives

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Summertime MMO alternatives originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribethesdabethesda-softworksbroken-steelchampions-onlinecodemasterscrypticcryptic-studiosdnddungeons-and-dragonsfallout-3featuredgazillion-entertainmentjumpgate-evolutionnetdevilopinionteam-fortress-2tf2the-digital-continuumvalvewizards-of-the-coastwotcMon, 01 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Four days with Dungeons & Dragons Online part 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/the-digital-continuum-four-days-with-dungeons-and-dragons-onlinep2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/the-digital-continuum-four-days-with-dungeons-and-dragons-onlinep2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/the-digital-continuum-four-days-with-dungeons-and-dragons-onlinep2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Four days with Dungeons & Dragons Online part 2

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Four days with Dungeons & Dragons Online part 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>communityddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronstormreachthe-digital-continuumturbinewizards-of-the-coastwotcSat, 11 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Four days with Dungeons & Dragons Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/the-digital-continuum-four-days-with-dungeons-and-dragons-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/the-digital-continuum-four-days-with-dungeons-and-dragons-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/the-digital-continuum-four-days-with-dungeons-and-dragons-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


7:41pm Tuesday, April 7th

I just spent my first night with Dungeons and Dragons Online since it first launched in 2006, and came away from the experience pleasantly surprised. The trial client download was snappy, at around 45 minutes. The graphics have definitely seen an upgrade and overall my initial experience has been one of enjoyment. I was expecting to be left a little wanting and instead ended tonight's session quite begrudgingly. Why?

I needed to write this first entry. And oh yeah, I also required some food, too.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Four days with Dungeons & Dragons Online

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Four days with Dungeons & Dragons Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 11 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronfeaturedkorthospuzzlestormreachthe-digital-continuumturbinewizards-of-the-coastwotcSat, 11 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeons & Dragons Online's new executive producer comments on Module 9]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/dungeons-and-dragons-onlines-new-executive-producer-comments-on-m/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/dungeons-and-dragons-onlines-new-executive-producer-comments-on-m/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/04/07/dungeons-and-dragons-onlines-new-executive-producer-comments-on-m/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Dungeon's & Dragon's Online players are getting two new things as of late: the free Module 9 update and a new executive producer by the name of Fernando Paiz. The update isn't out just yet, but its preview notes are and they're pretty substantial. Players are getting level 20, which brings tons of new feats and powers, along with DX10 graphics support, combat, UI and many other improvements.

If you're wondering who this new guy is, Fernando has actually been with Turbine for over three years and seems rather excited to be working with the team. We don't doubt that it's partially because he's now working with his wife, Kate.

Mostly though, Fernando appears to be pretty excited about both Module 9 and what he calls, "an aggressive push to grow the game in 2009" We'll be curious to see exactly what that means. Will players be getting epic levels starting with 21? Seems like the thing to do at this point in the life-cycle of Dungeons and Dragons Online, but we suppose that we'll just have to wait for the official announcement.

MassivelyDungeons & Dragons Online's new executive producer comments on Module 9 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinefernando-paizmodule-8module-9turbinewizards-of-the-coastTue, 07 Apr 2009 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Vivox's Monty Sharma talks about the coming months]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/vivoxs-monty-sharma-talks-about-the-coming-months/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/vivoxs-monty-sharma-talks-about-the-coming-months/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/25/vivoxs-monty-sharma-talks-about-the-coming-months/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Vivox has recently been picked up by SOE for use in EverQuest II, and in an interview with Ten Ton Hammer, one of the company's founders Monty Sharma discussed other deals that they have made and where we can expect to see their technology popping up next. Some of their bigger partners include Wizards of the Coast and NCsoft, and Sony will be using them for more of their games soon.

The interview also covers the technology itself, and how features like voice-masking may evolve over the years. The possibility of customizing the voice "fonts" comes up, something that we think would be a double-edged sword -- there would be room for people to really get into character with their avatars, or, everyone could just run around talking like Tay Zonday from Chocolate Rain. Sharma encourages gamers to check out Vivox's official website to learn more about their progress in taking over the MMO world.

MassivelyVivox's Monty Sharma talks about the coming months originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iimonty-sharmancsoftsoesony-online-entertainmentvivoxwizards-of-the-coastWed, 25 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What MMOs can learn from D&D Fourth Edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/what-mmos-can-learn-from-dandd-fourth-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/what-mmos-can-learn-from-dandd-fourth-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/what-mmos-can-learn-from-dandd-fourth-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,

Gamasutra is running a great article right now in the wake of the Dungeons and Dragons Fourth release, looking at what videogames can learn from the newest iteration of the tabletop classic. In a way, the possibility of games being informed by 4E is just the latest in the back-and-forth theft that has gone on between pen and paper gaming and the digital form.

The article waxes at length about some of the new mechanics in the game, including class powers, skill challenges, and the streamlined way that Wizards of the Coast has defined party roles. One of the most successful elements of Fourth Edition is the new way that encounters can be created -- something that should be kept in mind in every videogame as well, whether MMO or not: "Since most monsters are on-screen only long enough to take a few swings at the players and then die, that's what they should be designed to do. Unless it's the big boss, just give each monster two or three interesting attacks at most. Leave the non-combat design to the individual DM's world. Fourth edition really focuses on designing content to do what it needs to, and nothing else. Develop a clear vision for each piece of content, then cut away everything that doesn't serve that goal."

MassivelyWhat MMOs can learn from D&D Fourth Edition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4edungeons-and-dragonsfourth-editiongame-designwizards-of-the-coastwotcWed, 18 Jun 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Dungeons and Dragons Fourth Edition?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/the-daily-grind-dungeons-and-dragons-fourth-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/the-daily-grind-dungeons-and-dragons-fourth-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/the-daily-grind-dungeons-and-dragons-fourth-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Today's the day, long anticipated by tabletop gamers of the d20 variety; Dungeons and Dragons Fourth Edition releases today, coming to a Friendly Local Gaming Store near you. If you aren't familiar with the new edition of the game, Eurogamer has a great rundown on the system's ins and outs. For a more hands-on technical approach, you can't beat the official Wizards of the Coast site and their lengthy series of preview articles. You might have also noticed Penny Arcade's recent discussion of 4E. Though it requires a site login to reach, their hands-on playtime with PvP's Scott Kurtz is hilariously listenable.

We ask, because we have to imagine some of you MMO fans out there also have occasion to 'roll the bones'. These games are ultimately all built on the foundation that the late, great Gary Gygax built, right? So, how about it: are you jumping to the newest edition?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Dungeons and Dragons Fourth Edition? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d20dnddungeons-and-dragonsfantasyfourth-editionpen-and-paperrole-playingtdgthe-daily-grindwizards-of-the-coastwotcFri, 06 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's chat with Jess Lebow of Carbine Studios]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/massivelys-chat-with-jess-lebow-of-carbine-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/massivelys-chat-with-jess-lebow-of-carbine-studios/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/massivelys-chat-with-jess-lebow-of-carbine-studios/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

You may not be familiar with Carbine Studios, the new home of games industry veteran Jess Lebow. That's not too surprising as Carbine is still in stealth mode, working furiously on a project that we couldn't touch on at all in a recent discussion with the company's Lead Quest Designer. Mr. Lebow has had a storied past in the industry, just the same, and our discussion touched on a number of different issues.

Join us as we quiz Jess Lebow on his work with Dungeons and Dragons publisher Wizards of the Coast, reflect on his time sailing with Flying Lab, and look ahead to what the future of the industry might hold. Plus, for Guild Wars fans, a few insights into what the granddaddy of the setting thinks about how his offspring is doing nowadays.

Continue reading Massively's chat with Jess Lebow of Carbine Studios

MassivelyMassively's chat with Jess Lebow of Carbine Studios originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 May 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbinecarbine-studiosfeaturedguild-warsgwjess-lebowjoystiqfeaturespirates-of-the-burning-seapotbswizards-of-the-coastwotcTue, 27 May 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Player vs. Everything: What if WoW sold its code base?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/27/player-vs-everything-what-if-wow-sold-its-code-base/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/27/player-vs-everything-what-if-wow-sold-its-code-base/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/27/player-vs-everything-what-if-wow-sold-its-code-base/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


I could bore you all today by starting my article with a lengthy story about the pre-history of your beloved MMORPGs, but I'll cut to the important part: Once upon a time there was a little game called DikuMUD. Similar in nature to the popular Dungeons and Dragons tabletop roleplaying game, it quickly took off with the geek crowd and became something of a phenomenon. In 1991, the source code for the game was made public and it grew into the most popular code base out there for the creation of multi-user dungeons, largely attributed to the ease with which the code could be set up and run. This led to an explosion of rather similar games that eventually gave rise to the more modern virtual fantasy worlds like Ultima Online, EverQuest, and World of Warcraft (each of these have been compared to DikuMUDs at various times). What's the point of rehashing all of this?

Simply this: While many people would probably disagree with me, the proliferation of a popular, established code base that was proven to attract players and was easy to set up "out of the box" allowed enormous innovation and creativity to flourish. At one point, there were so many MUDs available on the web that you could go to a website designed specifically to sort out what features you wanted in yours (and play it free of charge, most of the time). Given the wild popularity of World of Warcraft today, I can't help but wonder what would happen to the online gaming industry if Blizzard decided to start selling their source code to people interested in starting up their own game.

Continue reading Player vs. Everything: What if WoW sold its code base?

MassivelyPlayer vs. Everything: What if WoW sold its code base? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achaeabig-world-technologiesblizzardbusinessbusiness-modelbusiness-modelsd20dikudikumudeverquestfeaturedhero-engineiron-realms-entertainmentmetaversemudmudsultima-onlinevirtual-worldswizards-of-the-coastworld-of-warcraftSun, 27 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Multiverse partners with Vivox to bring voice to virtual world developers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/multiverse-partners-with-vivox-to-bring-voice-to-virtual-world-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/multiverse-partners-with-vivox-to-bring-voice-to-virtual-world-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/multiverse-partners-with-vivox-to-bring-voice-to-virtual-world-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Metaverse development company Multiverse has announced a partnership with Vivox, the voice service provider for virtual worlds and MMOs of many stripes. Being able to provide integrated voice chat, 3D positional audio, presence, speaking indicators, and management tools right out of the box will be a definite selling point for developers who are interested in using Multiverse's platform to create their virtual worlds.

Vivox is keeping influential company -- other partners include Wizards of the Coast, IBM, metaverse developers Electric Sheep Company, and EVE Online's CCP Games. With strong strategic alliances like these, they're quickly rising to the top of voice provider solutions for the industry. Let's hope their grasp doesn't exceed their reach.

[Via Business Wire]

MassivelyMultiverse partners with Vivox to bring voice to virtual world developers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-wireccp-gameselectric-sheep-companyeve-onlineibmmultiversepartnershipsecond-lifevivoxvoice-chatwizards-of-the-coastTue, 01 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragonlance: A property ripe for the pillaging]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/dragonlance-a-property-ripe-for-the-pillaging/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/dragonlance-a-property-ripe-for-the-pillaging/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/02/04/dragonlance-a-property-ripe-for-the-pillaging/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I'm surprised this hasn't happened yet. In the Dragonlance series of novels, published by Wizards of the Coast (having bought it from TSR), the world of Ansalon is full to bursting with the standard Fantasy tropes: wizards, warriors, monsters, etc. In fact, the first series of books, beginning with Dragons of Autumn Twilight, could easily make a fine quest storyline, if you make allowances for picking up new characters along the way.

There's a decent selection of races to play (humans, elves, half-elves, dwarves, kender) and classes (barbarian, cleric, thief, fighter, mage), but I imagine the draw of such an MMO would be in getting to meet and even play alongside famous characters from the novels themselves, like Raistlin Majere, Tanis Half-Elven, and Tasslehoff Burrfoot. Now, I'm not saying we here at Massively have any inside knowledge of a Dragonlance MMO coming out in the future, but the series is so popular, a developer could certainly do worse than to work on this ... I'm just sayin'.

MassivelyDragonlance: A property ripe for the pillaging originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 04 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ansalondragonlancedragons-of-autumn-twilighthalf-elveskenderraistlin-majeretanis-half-elventasslehoff-burrfoottsrwizards-of-the-coastMon, 04 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Benchmark Capital joins Vivox in 7.8 million USD deal]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/benchmark-capital-joins-vivox-in-7-8-million-usd-deal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/benchmark-capital-joins-vivox-in-7-8-million-usd-deal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/benchmark-capital-joins-vivox-in-7-8-million-usd-deal/#commentsFiled under: ,

According to Wagner James Au at GigaOm, Benchmark Capital has joined the board of Vivox. We're not sure how much Benchmark Capital invested directly. The total was $7.8 million US dollars in Series B financing, some of which also came from Canaan Partners and GrandBanks Capital.

The man behind the deal was Mitch Lasky, formerly with Eletronic Arts' mobile division, now general partner at Benchmark Capital.

Continue reading Benchmark Capital joins Vivox in 7.8 million USD deal

MassivelyBenchmark Capital joins Vivox in 7.8 million USD deal originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1pgnbenchmark-capitalbill-gurleycanaan-partnersccpelectric-sheep-companyelectronic-artseve-onlinegrandbanks-capitalibmillusion-factorylanguage-lablinden-labmitch-laskymonumental-gamespixel-mineragnesis-onlinesecond-lifevivoxwhite-wolfwizards-of-the-coastThu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST