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[World of Tanks' 7.4 update to feature new game modes, maps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/world-of-tanks-7-4-update-to-feature-new-game-modes-maps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/world-of-tanks-7-4-update-to-feature-new-game-modes-maps/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/world-of-tanks-7-4-update-to-feature-new-game-modes-maps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - French SPG
Two new game modes are coming to World of Tanks. Encounter battle and assault will both debut with the 7.4 patch, as Wargaming.net looks to up the ante in terms of complicated combat assignments.

The patch will also expand the French tank tree as well as add two new maps to the mix. The first map is called Widepark, and it takes place amidst the ruins of a bombed out German town. The second map is called Airfield. It transports players to a Mediterranean location surrounded by temple ruins and rocky hills.

The most noteworthy 7.4 changes, though, are the game modes. Encounter battle "invites two sides to fight for one base," according to a Wargaming.net press release. Assault "sets the players in the roles of attackers and defenders where the former have superior combat capabilities," the company says.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Tanks' 7.4 update to feature new game modes, maps originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 23 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7.4-updatef2pfree-to-playhistoricalnew-mapspvptanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-7.4world-of-tanks-assaultworld-of-tanks-encounter-battleworld-of-tanks-game-modeswotWed, 23 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wargaming.net looking to conquer Korea]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/wargaming-net-looking-to-conquer-korea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/wargaming-net-looking-to-conquer-korea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/wargaming-net-looking-to-conquer-korea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - French destroyer
One of these days we're going to write a story about how Wargaming.net has colonized another planet and is busy converting its indigenous population into fiendishly addicted action MMO players. Today, though, the company is settling for Korea.

The month of May brings the latest territorial expansion for the firm's ubiquitous World of Tanks brand as well as a new Korean office. "We are proud to announce that Wargaming.net is just a couple of steps away from establishing its Korean presence," says CEO Victor Kislyi. "Now that we're fully prepared to meet [the] high expectations of the Korean gaming community, I don't see any reasons for World of Tanks not to become a success."

Wargaming.net launched World of Tanks in 2011. The company is currently conducting global alpha tests for its World of Warplanes followup as well as developing World of Battleships.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWargaming.net looking to conquer Korea originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playhistoricalpvptanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-koreawotMon, 07 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks appreciates the military with a World of Thanks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you've actually been shot at in a tank, this game is probably a bit less fun.
When you log in and play World of Tanks, you're playing the entertaining part of war, the part with cool machines wreaking havoc. Real wars obviously aren't fought by logging in and choosing a tank; they're fought by brave men and women willing to lay down their lives for their country if necessary. Thus, in honor of National Military Appreciation Month, Wargaming.net is donating to several charities for American veterans with your purchases.

Four charities -- AMVETS, Homes for our Troops, the Military Families Fund, and Paralyzed Veterans of America -- will be receiving 10% of the proceeds from all American purchases of larger Gold packs and 75% of the proceeds for all American purchases of the T14 package. To help raise awareness of veteran concerns, the company will also be hosting several giveaways through the month. It's a nice nod toward the reality of armed conflicts, and it lets you play at a private little war while still donating to survivors of real battles.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks appreciates the military with a World of Thanks originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycharity-donationscharity-eventsf2pfree-to-playhistoricalin-game-eventsmilitarymilitary-appreciation-monthpvptanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 03 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: Five reasons to love Tribes: Ascend]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/the-firing-line-five-reasons-to-love-tribes-ascend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/the-firing-line-five-reasons-to-love-tribes-ascend/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/the-firing-line-five-reasons-to-love-tribes-ascend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - Five reasons to love Tribes: Ascend
Oh, Tribes: Ascend, if only you were an MMO.

Actually, wait a minute. When I think on it, if Hi-Rez Studios' new free-to-play sci-fi shooter were an MMO, I probably wouldn't like it as much. There's something to be said for frequent updates and instant gameplay gratification, and Tribes provides those things (and more) in spades.

Continue reading The Firing Line: Five reasons to love Tribes: Ascend

MassivelyThe Firing Line: Five reasons to love Tribes: Ascend originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascendccpccp-gamesconsolecustom-serverscustom-sharddustdust-514e-sportesporteveeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfiring-linefirst-person-shooterfpsfree-to-playhi-rezhi-rez-studioshistoricalmmofpsopinionplaneplanesplaystationplaystation-3private-serverprivate-serversprivate-shardsps3pvpraid-and-pillageshootertanktankstflthe-firing-linethird-person-shootertpstribestribes-ascendtribes-ascend-raid-and-pillagetribes-clan-servertribes-custom-servertribes-mmotribes-private-servertribes-raid-and-pillagetribes-universewarwargaming.netwarplanewarplanesworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplaneswotwowpFri, 27 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks launches in Southeast Asia this week]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/world-of-tanks-launches-in-southeast-asia-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/world-of-tanks-launches-in-southeast-asia-this-week/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/world-of-tanks-launches-in-southeast-asia-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - burning tank
World of Tanks has some gaudy user numbers. Even though MMO companies and PR firms are known for their Hollywood accounting when it comes to player statistics, 24 million users is a lot any way you slice it.

It's not enough for Wargaming.net, though, so the company is shipping its brand of lobby-based World War II tank action to Southeast Asia this week. The game is coming to Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand, and it's bringing its arsenal of more than 150 armored vehicles with it.

Local support, distribution, marketing, and operational concerns are in the hands of SEA Gaming. World of Tanks originally launched in March of 2011 as the first game in a planned trilogy of World War II-based action titles.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Tanks launches in Southeast Asia this week originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-million-usersf2pfree-to-playhistoricalpvpseasea-gamingtanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-southeast-asiawotThu, 26 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: World of Tanks first-anniversary retrospective]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/the-firing-line-world-of-tanks-first-anniversary-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/the-firing-line-world-of-tanks-first-anniversary-retrospective/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/the-firing-line-world-of-tanks-first-anniversary-retrospective/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - World of Tanks anniversary retrospective
We've been hearing about World of Tanks for so long that it seems crazy to think the title is just now celebrating its first anniversary. Sure enough, though, Wargaming.net's lobby-based multiplayer title is barely a year old. Well, OK. It's almost two years old if you count its summer 2010 beta release, which we won't since the title up there says first anniversary.

Anyhow, what's even scarier than the passage of time is the fact that World of Tanks (and the company behind it) is showing no signs of slowing down.

Continue reading The Firing Line: World of Tanks first-anniversary retrospective

MassivelyThe Firing Line: World of Tanks first-anniversary retrospective originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfeaturedfiring-linefirst-anniversaryfpsfree-to-playhistoricalmmofpsopinionpvptanktankstflthe-firing-linethird-person-shootertpswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-anniversaryworld-of-tanks-first-birthdayworld-of-tanks-retrospectivewotwot-anniversaryFri, 20 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Choose My Adventure: Ultimate road trip edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/choose-my-adventure-ultimate-road-trip-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/choose-my-adventure-ultimate-road-trip-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/choose-my-adventure-ultimate-road-trip-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Choose My Adventure
Let's go for another spin!

Just like Mikey of Life cereal fame, I ventured into the realm of Choose My Adventure once before, and I liked it! Grand adventures, camaraderie with readers, exploring the unknown... what more could I ask for? More time, obviously!

It ended all too soon. I was totally revved up and ready to jump right back in, but unfortunately neither pleading nor bribery worked to continue my stint as your plucky puppet (and locking the other staff members in a dark closet didn't pan out either -- they escaped), so I had to park it and wait my turn. It took much too long, but finally my time has come again. *happy dance*

Now the boss may have handed me the keys, but you will be the ones driving. The top is down, and I've got snacks and shades; all that is left to begin our adventure for the next six weeks is to pick which direction to head and floor it. Although a lot of good places have already been visited, there are plenty more to choose from. In the mood for fantasy? Capes? Nebulas? Heavy artillery? Cast your votes by Sunday, April 22nd, 2012, at 11:59 p.m. EDT for your chance to steer me to the world of your choice. Our possible destinations (in no particular order) are...

Continue reading Choose My Adventure: Ultimate road trip edition

MassivelyChoose My Adventure: Ultimate road trip edition originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acaeriaaeria-gamesage-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedanarchy-onlineaoaocaoc-unchainedasherons-callchampionschampions-onlinechampschoose-my-adventurechoose-my-adventure-mj-guthriecity-of-heroescity-of-villainsclassic-mmocmacocohconanconsoleconsolescovcoxcrypticcryptic-studiosdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuoeden-eternalf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreedomfuncomhands-onhistoricalhyboriancsoftopinionparagonparagon-studiosperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentplaystation-3playstation3pollpollsps3pvppwereaders-choicesandboxsci-fisoesony-online-entertainmentstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestosuperherosuperheroestanktanksturbineturbine-entertainmentunchainedvotevotingwarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotWed, 18 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks celebrates its first year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/world-of-tanks-celebrates-its-first-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/world-of-tanks-celebrates-its-first-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/world-of-tanks-celebrates-its-first-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

World of Tanks anniversary
Bring on the armored confetti! World of Tanks is celebrating its first anniversary, and Wargaming.net is "tankful" for the over 24 million registered players worldwide. Has the growth caused some shell-shock? "Our growth over the last year has been nothing short of amazing. A year ago, no one in the company could possibly imagine that World of Tanks would have skyrocketed like this," said Wargaming.net CEO Victor Kislyi.

So what have all these users been up to over the last 12 months? They have participated in 350 million battles, fired more than 75 billion shells (scoring 48 billion direct hits), and destroyed more than eight billion armored vehicles. On top of that, World of Tanks secured the Guinness World Record for the Most Players Online Simultaneously on One MMO Server in January 2011 with 91,311 simultaneous players. The game has even broken that record multiple times, reaching a hefty 450,000 players online at one time.

WoT has no intention of resting on its laurels; Kislyi assures us that "the game isn't slowing down anytime soon." In fact, he says, "We have massive expectations for the upcoming year, and we'll continue to drive game development that will keep our players engaged and excited."

Join in the celebration: Watch the video after the cut and then check out our one-year retrospective in next week's The Firing Line.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

Continue reading World of Tanks celebrates its first year

MassivelyWorld of Tanks celebrates its first year originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-celebrationf2pfree-to-playGuinness-World-Recordhistoricalpvptanktanksvictor-kislyivideowarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 12 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks 7.3 patch revamps Soviet tech tree, brings new maps]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/world-of-tanks-7-3-patch-revamps-soviet-tech-tree-brings-new-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/world-of-tanks-7-3-patch-revamps-soviet-tech-tree-brings-new-ma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/world-of-tanks-7-3-patch-revamps-soviet-tech-tree-brings-new-ma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - 7.3 video
It was just last week that Wargaming.net rolled out patch 7.2 for its World of Tanks action title. Today the company has announced the followup, and while we don't have a release date on 7.3 as of yet, we do know that it features quite a lot of new content.

First and foremost is the revamp to the game's Soviet tech tree, which sees heavy tanks split into two separate branches. The 7.3 update also brings a new South Coast battle arena to World of Tanks as well as Dragon's Ridge, the first of the game's maps to be set in Asia.

"We've got loads of exciting new content to share with our players," said Victor Kislyi, CEO of Wargaming.net. "The new machines should give players a taste for heavy vehicles, and with the help of the upcoming battle arenas, the game will get a fresh look from both a visual and tactical point of view." You can get a visual preview of 7.3 via the video after the cut.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

Continue reading World of Tanks 7.3 patch revamps Soviet tech tree, brings new maps

MassivelyWorld of Tanks 7.3 patch revamps Soviet tech tree, brings new maps originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Screenshot -- World of Tanks
The World of Tanks is about to get just a bit bigger with the advent of the game's patch 7.2, which will hit the servers tomorrow morning. The update adds two new maps, 22 new crew skills and perks, and a number of new tanks (and some adjustments to existing ones).

But hey, why settle for words when you can have sweet, explosion-filled video? Wargaming.net has released a new trailer to get players excited about the new update. So while you (im)patiently await the patch's arrival on the live servers, why don't you grab yourself some popcorn and have a look?

[Thanks to Pharaoh for the tip!]

Continue reading World of Tanks' patch 7.2 locks and loads tomorrow

MassivelyWorld of Tanks' patch 7.2 locks and loads tomorrow originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7.2f2pfree-to-playhistoricalpatchpatch-7.2patchespvptanktankstrailertrailersvideovideoswarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 29 Mar 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks has 20 million registered users, making double-digit million profits monthly]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/world-of-tanks-has-20-million-registered-users-making-double-di/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/world-of-tanks-has-20-million-registered-users-making-double-di/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/world-of-tanks-has-20-million-registered-users-making-double-di/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - French tank
Wargaming.net is going through quite a growth spurt, and the company's CEO says it's not just about registered user numbers boosted by freeloading players. "We probably have one of the highest payment ratios in the industry, it's around 25 to 30 percent," Victor Kislyi recently told GamesIndustry.biz.

Kislyi also offered up some impressive concurrent user numbers for World of Tanks, including 423,000 simultaneous Russian tankers that he said outstrips the entirety of EVE Online's playerbase.

As for the "pay-to-win" rhetoric often found in World of Tanks internet discussions, Kislyi says it is what it is. "For casual gameplay, which most players do most of the time, people don't usually use gold or expendables. Of course if you want to win a tournament, if you're competitive, if you play clan wars, if you want to be at the top, we think it's appropriate to expect a little bit of money from you because you already spent hundreds of hours in our game and that's much more than the value of any $50 box."

MassivelyWorld of Tanks has 20 million registered users, making double-digit million profits monthly originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Massively Speaking
Massively Speaking Episode 190 brings us another installment of the wild and wacky adventures of Massively's GDC crew. Today the entire ensemble has assembled, with Shawn, Jef, Karen, and MJ hogging the mike and sharing their impressions and experiences from the convention. Also, Karen rules from the Iron Throne, so do not mess with her or she'll send you to the Wall.

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

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
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[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 190: GDC Wednesday originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-game-of-thronesbattleshipbattleshipsbigpointbiowarebrantbrianna-royceccpccp-gamesconsoledark-legendsdustdust-514eveeve-onlinef2pfeaturedfpsfree-to-playgame-of-throneshistoricalhumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemmofpsmwoopinionpiranhapiranha-gamesplaneplanesplaystationplaystation-3podcastpodcastingpodcastsps3pvpsci-fishooterspacetime-studiostanktanksthe9triontrion-worldswarwargaming-netwargaming.netwarplanewarplaneswobworld-of-battleshipsworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplaneswotwowpThu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 190Massively.com Staff00:28:20podcasts<![CDATA[World of Tanks takes aim at southeast Asia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/world-of-tanks-takes-aim-at-southeast-asia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/world-of-tanks-takes-aim-at-southeast-asia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/world-of-tanks-takes-aim-at-southeast-asia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - French tank in a field, hopefully a newish screenshot
Wargaming.net might want to think seriously about changing its name to Worldgaming.net. The studio behind World of Warplanes announced today that it's bringing its World of Tanks MMO to southeast Asia. Wargaming has formed a partnership with SEA Gaming that will bring the World War II action title to gamers in Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand.

This isn't a simple port of the European or American client, either, as Wargaming.net says gamers in the region can expect full localization, a Singapore-based server group, and dedicated support services.

Online gaming in southeast Asia features an estimated 100 million players, who will generate nearly $1 billion in sales by 2015, according to market analysts at Niko Partners.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Tanks takes aim at southeast Asia originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asian-marketf2pfree-to-playhistoricallocalizationmmo-industrypvpsoutheast-asiatanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 08 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2012: Locking on to MechWarrior Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-locking-on-to-mechwarrior-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-locking-on-to-mechwarrior-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/gdc-2012-locking-on-to-mechwarrior-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MechWarrior Online
The notion of strapping oneself into a massive battle robot chassis and duking it out with other 'Mechs appeals to the inner child in all of us (or it should), so it's hard not to feel a tingle of excitement when the makers of MechWarrior Online promise that we'll soon be able to do just that. We caught up with the Piranha Games crew at GDC to become one of the very first non-studio witnesses of MWO's in-game footage and to hear why this is a title that should be on all of our radars.

The team is filled with huge fans of the MechWarrior and BattleTech franchises, so the devs were eager to construct a proper MechWarrior title when Piranha got ahold of the license this year. The studio seized upon the free-to-play model early on as the best way to draw in as many potential 'Mech pilots as possible. It also snagged the CryEngine 3 to provide the best possible graphical fidelity for its product. Unfortunately, it's going to be hard to categorize MWO as "massively," as its non-persistent arena maps will host up to only 24 players in 12v12 fights.

Setting-wise, MechWarrior Online begins in 3049, but that date will keep tempo with the real-world calendar (so tomorrow it'll be March 9th, 3049, and so on). As events happen in the story according to the game's canon, the game will change to reflect that in real-time.

Read on to hear what the devs had to say about two of the game's four pillars: mech warfare and role warfare.

Continue reading GDC 2012: Locking on to MechWarrior Online

MassivelyGDC 2012: Locking on to MechWarrior Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12v12community-warfareconconferenceconventionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012mechmech-warfaremechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemobamwopiranhapiranha-gamesrole-warfaresci-fiworld-of-tanksThu, 08 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks iOS app rolls off the factory line]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/world-of-tanks-ios-app-rolls-off-the-factory-line/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/world-of-tanks-ios-app-rolls-off-the-factory-line/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/world-of-tanks-ios-app-rolls-off-the-factory-line/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

World of Tanks Assistant
Wargaming.net is making it easier than ever to stay in touch with your friends and goals in World of Tanks, as the studio released its first mobile app that's integrated with the online game. Called World of Tanks Assistant, this free app can be found in the iTunes Store, although an Android version is coming soon.

The World of Tanks Assistant is designed to give players access to in-game information while they're on the go. Players can access their profiles, read up on the latest news, check out combat stats and global ratings, and stay in touch with friends.

Wargaming.net CEO Victor Kislyi hopes that this will be a useful tool for WoT fans: "What I like about the Assistant most is its convenience. Even if you're away from your computer, there's always an app at hand that will give you everything you need to know at any given time."

MassivelyWorld of Tanks iOS app rolls off the factory line originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappleapple-appapple-storef2pfree-to-playintegrated-appios-appitunes-storemobile-appVictor-Kislyiwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-assistantwotTue, 21 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks invades America in Update 7.2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/world-of-tanks-invades-america-in-update-7-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/world-of-tanks-invades-america-in-update-7-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/world-of-tanks-invades-america-in-update-7-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks
Watch out America -- your soil is no longer safe from the rampaging treads of World of Tanks! Wargaming.net announced the forthcoming 7.2 update for the game which includes a US twist: an American map called Live Oaks, US tank destroyers, and updates to two of the top-tier American heavy tanks.

Update 7.2 will be arriving in the first quarter of this year, and also contains an Italian map (Campania), an integrated tutorial to help newbies get a handle on the game, and 20 new crew skills.

Lead Game Designer Mike Zhivets is all aglow over 7.2: "We are always happy to introduce new features and game content to our community. Many more new exciting features are on their way and will be introduced in the nearest updates."

You can check out the diesel action in the trailer after the jump!

Continue reading World of Tanks invades America in Update 7.2

MassivelyWorld of Tanks invades America in Update 7.2 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7.27.2-updateamericacampaniaf2pfree-to-playlive-oaksMike-Zhivetspatch-7.2tank-destroyerstrailerupdate-7.2usvideowargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 02 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[French tanks rumble into World of Tanks looking for payback]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/french-tanks-rumble-into-world-of-tanks-looking-for-payback/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/french-tanks-rumble-into-world-of-tanks-looking-for-payback/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/french-tanks-rumble-into-world-of-tanks-looking-for-payback/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

World of Tanks
Wargaming.net is allowing players to participate in a little revisionist history by unleashing French designs into World of Tanks. Will the Germans finally get what's coming to them, or will the Panzers dominate as they did back in the 40s?

With today's Update 7.1, the French have arrived in the game with several new tanks available for players to drive. Light, medium, and heavy versions of French armor will present a new twist on the established gameplay, with choices like the AMX 13-90, AMX 40, AMX 50 B and Lorraine 40t that feature automatic loading systems and oscillating turrets. Later this year Wargaming.net will add French tank destroyers and SPGs as well.

Lead Game Designer Mike Zhivets believes this will present a unique challenge for players who think they have it all figured out: "Our players already know how to play with the 'big three' tank nations, but the French are all-different. You'll have to reconsider the way you think tanks behave before they let you tame them. And that's what we love them for!"

You can scope out these French beauties in the gallery below.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

Gallery: World of Tanks

MassivelyFrench tanks rumble into World of Tanks looking for payback originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7.17.1-updateAMX-13-90factionfrenchfrench-tanksgalleryMike-Zhivetsscreenshotstanksupdate-7.1wargamingwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-iiwotThu, 05 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks 7.1 update to feature French armor]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/world-of-tanks-7-1-update-to-feature-french-armor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/world-of-tanks-7-1-update-to-feature-french-armor/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/world-of-tanks-7-1-update-to-feature-french-armor/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - French tank
Wargaming.net has been trumpeting the 7.0 release for its World of Tanks MMO for a while now. Today the company dropped the first hint about what lies beyond with update 7.1, which it will feature the long-awaited introduction of French tanks.

The new tech tree boasts 18 new French fighting vehicles (there's a pacifist joke in there somewhere) divided into light, medium, and heavy flavors. Wargaming.net also says that the French armor will "enrich the combat and bring all-new tactics into the game." We're not sure how the new tactics will work as of yet, but we'll bring you the very latest as the devs make it available.

Finally, Wargaming.net says that French SPGs and tank destroyers are planned for a later update.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Tanks 7.1 update to feature French armor originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7.17.1-patch7.1-updatef2pfree-to-playfrenchfrench-tankstankswargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotww2wwiiTue, 20 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wargaming.net releases World of Tanks' 7.0 update]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/wargaming-net-releases-world-of-tanks-7-0-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/wargaming-net-releases-world-of-tanks-7-0-update/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/wargaming-net-releases-world-of-tanks-7-0-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - 7.0 art
Wargaming.net has announced the official release of its seventh major update for World of Tanks. Crazily enough, it's called the 7.0 update, and it features a bundle of new content designed to make little tanker hearts go pitter-patter.

First up are two new game maps, the Swamp and the Fjords, and there's also a bit of tank customization in the offing thanks to new camouflage and various horn effects. Tank company levels are also being tweaked, as are the game's visual effects (including smoke, shots, and explosions that have been tuned to allow for lower system requirements).

If you've ever wanted to relive your multiplayer battles (and you don't have a copy of Fraps handy), you can now save and view replays at will. Finally, new technology will allow for users "to play on any cluster of the server group with same unified account." Head to the official site for more, and don't forget to fire up your patchers to start the update!

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWargaming.net releases World of Tanks' 7.0 update originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfjordsfree-to-playmulticluster-technologyreplay-savesswampswargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotww2wwiiThu, 15 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[[Updated] On the third day of giveaways, Wargaming.net gave to me...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/on-the-third-day-of-giveaways-wargaming-net-gave-to-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/on-the-third-day-of-giveaways-wargaming-net-gave-to-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/on-the-third-day-of-giveaways-wargaming-net-gave-to-me/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Tanks. In World of Tanks.
[UPDATE: All winners have been selected and contacted. Thanks for entering!]

On the third day of giveaways, Wargaming.net gave to me... three premium years!
On the second day of giveaways, BioWare gave to me... two warring factions!
On the first day of giveaways, Turbine gave to me... a lifetime VIP!

Day three of Massively's 12 Days of Giveaways has arrived, and World of Tanks joins our lineup with a bang (har har). The generous team at Wargaming.net has given us three codes, each worth a year of WoT premium account status. Premium account holders enjoy bonuses to XP and credits earned in battle, along with plenty of other perks in game.

The World of Tanks crew has added one more present under our virtual tree, and it's an impressive one. This one is for new players only. If you don't have a World of Tanks account yet, visit our giveaway page and pick up a code for a gift package containing one day of premium access, 300 gold, and a T2 light tank. Create your new account using this link, and when you are asked "Have an invite code?" key in your new code. These codes are good on North American and European servers.

Now, how about that year of premium? You can still enter even if you picked up a new player code. All you need to do to enter is be eligible according to our official contest rules, then hit the comment button and let us know what you like most about World of Tanks. The deadline to enter is tomorrow, December 16th, at 11:00 a.m. EST. Best of luck, and thanks to Wargaming.net for the prizes!

CONTEST FAQ OFFICIAL RULES

Massively[Updated] On the third day of giveaways, Wargaming.net gave to me... originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-giveaways-2011contestcontestsf2pfree-to-playgiveawaygiveawayspremium-accountwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-premiumworld-of-tanks-premium-accountwotwot-premium-accountThu, 15 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks tops its own Guinness World Record]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/world-of-tanks-tops-its-own-guinness-world-record/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/world-of-tanks-tops-its-own-guinness-world-record/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/08/world-of-tanks-tops-its-own-guinness-world-record/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

World of Tanks
If your hard-won Guinness World Record has to be beaten one day, it's best that you do it yourself.

That seems like Wargaming.net's philosophy, as the studio just announced that it's already broken World of Tanks' previously established record for Most Players Online Simultaneously on One MMO Server. 250,000 players crammed onto the game's Russian server simultaneously in November, far outstripping the title's earlier achievement of 91,311.

CEO Victor Kislyi said that its upcoming technology and software upgrades will enable World of Tanks to do even better: "We are more than happy to watch our World of Tanks win over hearts and minds of gamers all around the world. The multicluster technology will enable us to move steadily towards new milestones and records."

We recently gave World of Tanks a close look in our Firing Line column.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Tanks tops its own Guinness World Record originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>broken-recordconcurrencyconcurrent-playersconcurrent-usersf2pfree-to-playguiness-world-recordguinness-world-recordsmulticluster-technologyrecordrecord-brokenrussiaserverVictor-Kislyiwargamingwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 08 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: A look at World of Tanks]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/the-firing-line-a-look-at-world-of-tanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/the-firing-line-a-look-at-world-of-tanks/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/the-firing-line-a-look-at-world-of-tanks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line - header with various shooter avatars
I'm not the biggest tank fan in the world. Don't get me wrong; I'm a red-blooded American male who loves engines, horsepower, and most types of heavy machinery, but for whatever reason, I've never looked at a tank and come away particularly aroused.

Imagine the surprise, then, when I loaded up World of Tanks a couple of weeks ago and found myself having a jolly old time. Wargaming.net's free-to-play action title is a deceptively simple shooter with a lot of depth under the hood, and despite what some players refer to as pay-to-win shenanigans, I highly recommend it.

Continue reading The Firing Line: A look at World of Tanks

MassivelyThe Firing Line: A look at World of Tanks originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessibilityaccessibleeasy-to-learn-hard-to-masterf2pfeaturedfiring-linefree-to-playfreemiumhands-onimpressionsmmo-shooteropinionpay-2-winpay-to-winshootertanksthe-firing-linewargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-impressionsWorld-War-IIwotww2wwiiFri, 25 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks dishes up Tanksgiving and the Update 7.0 trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/world-of-tanks-dishes-up-tanksgiving-and-the-update-7-0-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/world-of-tanks-dishes-up-tanksgiving-and-the-update-7-0-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/world-of-tanks-dishes-up-tanksgiving-and-the-update-7-0-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks
Trust us on this: Never before has the word "fjords" been issued with such goosebump-raising intensity. But such is the World of Tanks and its passionate love for geography and the many, many ways that it can be blown to smithereens.

Wargaming.net is pumping up the hype for Update 7.0 with a new trailer showing off the famous Fjords map, the new camouflage feature, and (of course) massive tank battles. Update 7.0 is currently in public testing for release in the near future.

This week also will see "Tanksgiving" coming to the game on November 24th. During Tanksgiving -- November 24th through the 28th -- select tanks will receive double credits during matches. Wargaming.net promises even more to come with the event, but the studio is keeping its cards tight against its chest until the event arrives.

You can watch the Update 7.0 trailer after the jump!

Continue reading World of Tanks dishes up Tanksgiving and the Update 7.0 trailer

MassivelyWorld of Tanks dishes up Tanksgiving and the Update 7.0 trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fjordfjordsin-game-eventmapsswampstanksgivingthanksgivingtrailerupdate-7update-7.0videowargamingwargaming.networld-of-tankswotTue, 22 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What 'world of' game do you want to see next?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/the-daily-grind-what-world-of-game-do-you-want-to-see-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/the-daily-grind-what-world-of-game-do-you-want-to-see-next/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/19/the-daily-grind-what-world-of-game-do-you-want-to-see-next/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

You know dirigibles are awesome. Say it out loud. See.
Wargaming.net is known to gamers for its popular World of Tanks MMO, in which players play... well, tanks. And thanks to WoT's success, the company has embarked on an ambitious plan to launch World of Warplanes and World of Battleships too.

I think you know where I'm going with this.

World of Dirigibles? World of Tractors? World of Hoverboards? World of Dunebuggies? World of Post-Apocalyptic Volkswagen Beetles With Chainguns Mounted On Their Hoods? Let's give the folks at Wargaming.net some helpful advice. What vehicle should they feature for their next "World of" game?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What 'world of' game do you want to see next? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgdirigibledirigiblesopiniontdgthe-daily-grindwarwargamingwargaming.netwobworld-ofworld-of-battleshipsworld-of-dirigiblesworld-of-dunebuggiesworld-of-hoverboardsworld-of-tanksworld-of-tractorsworld-of-warplaneswotwowpSat, 19 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wargaming.net honoring U.S. Veterans on Veterans Day]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/wargaming-net-honoring-u-s-veterans-on-veterans-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/wargaming-net-honoring-u-s-veterans-on-veterans-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/wargaming-net-honoring-u-s-veterans-on-veterans-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- World of Tanks
Tomorrow, Americans will be celebrating Veterans Day and honoring the service of our armed forces. Wargaming.net has announced that it will be joining the celebrations by donating proceeds from World of Tanks gold bundles to the Paralyzed Veterans of America organization. For every $14.95 gold bundle purchased, Wargaming.net will donate $5, and for every $49.95 gold bundle purchased, it will donate $15. So if you want to support war veterans while blowing some tanks to kingdom come, head on over to World of Tanks and join the fight.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWargaming.net honoring U.S. Veterans on Veterans Day originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>donationdonationsfundraisingparalyzed-veterans-of-americaveterans-daywargamingwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 10 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wargaming.net heading to G-Star 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/wargaming-net-heading-to-g-star-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/wargaming-net-heading-to-g-star-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/wargaming-net-heading-to-g-star-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - tanks on fire
Wargaming.net's assault on the global MMO scene continues this month as the development firm heads to Korea for Asia's largest gaming-related tradeshow. The folks who brought you World of Tanks (and who will shortly be bringing you World of Warplanes, World of Battleships, and World of post-apocalyptic Volkswagen Beetles with chainguns mounted on their hoods) are traveling to G-Star 2011 to promote the recently released World of Tanks Korean language pack.

The team has also launched a promotional Korean website, and Wargaming.net seems intent on creating a large presence in the Asian gaming market for its free-to-play action MMO brands. "We've created a truly high-quality AAA title with World of Tanks [which is] already wildly successful in Russia and in the West," said Wargaming.net CEO Victor Kislyi via press release. "Now we are looking forward to promoting our product [in] the mature and competitive Korean market."

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWargaming.net heading to G-Star 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoeventsf2pfree-to-playg-starg-star-2011historicalkoreakorean-marketmmo-shooterpress-releasereal-world-eventstanksvictor-kislyiwarwargaming.networld-of-battleshipsworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplaneswotFri, 04 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks introduces stealth with Update 7.0]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/world-of-tanks-introduces-stealth-with-update-7-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/world-of-tanks-introduces-stealth-with-update-7-0/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/01/world-of-tanks-introduces-stealth-with-update-7-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Snow camo - World of Tanks
The newly announced Update 7.0 for World of Tanks contains a laundry list of new content for the wildly popular free-to-play MMO.

First up, we have two new maps -- Fjords and Swamp -- where the clan warfare can take on an extra challenge with the highly anticipated camouflage system, applied to all maps. This version of stealth allows certain skins to be applied to the tanks that will "provide enhanced invisibility and add more to the strategic element of tank combat." Keep in mind that this isn't some kind of magic invisibility spell; it's an authentic camouflage pattern applied to the tanks, according to which map you're in.

In addition, Update 7.0 also introduces fog of war for Clan Wars, hiding the other team's roster, and clan emblems to let other players know how you roll.

For more on this update, check out the World of Tanks site, as well as our recent interview with Wargaming.net from GDC Online 2011.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

Gallery: World of Tanks

MassivelyWorld of Tanks introduces stealth with Update 7.0 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camouflageclan-emblemsclan-warfaref2pfjordfog-of-warfree-to-playstealthswampupdate-7update-7.0wargaming.networld-of-tankswotTue, 01 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: October 24-30, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/mv-guide-october-24-20-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/mv-guide-october-24-20-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/mv-guide-october-24-20-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Little Horrors
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.)

It's no surprise that we're heavy on the Halloween festivities in this week's MV Guide. Nearly every game out there is partying with the ghosts and goblins, from the newly discovered Little Horrors (pictured above) to the familiar Free Realms. Our livestream team is going to spend plenty of time checking out events in various games. If Halloween's not your thing, don't worry -- we've got plenty of regularly scheduled gameplay as well, so follow along after the jump for this week's lineup!

Continue reading MV Guide: October 24-30, 2011

MassivelyMV Guide: October 24-30, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinecod-2d2diablo-iieqiieverquest-2everquest-iifree-realmsgolden-agejagexkingsisle-entertainmentlittle-horrorslivestreamingmilmomv-guidemv-tvnexonrunescapesoeSony-Online-Entertainmentstar-trek-onlinestovindictuswargaming.netwizard101world-of-tanksMon, 24 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you prefer historical settings?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-prefer-historical-settings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-prefer-historical-settings/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/the-daily-grind-do-you-prefer-historical-settings/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

R.I.P., Imperator
This week, Massively's Karen Bryan attended a GDC talk by Charles Cecil, the creator of Broken Sword, on the topic of writing games that employ history and historical themes. Cecil wisely noted that historical themes tap in to the audience's shared mythology to generate a compelling game and to serve as the foundation for accessible puzzles relevant to the storyline. And yet strict historical themes in MMOs, even when not diluted with more fantastic elements, can also betray immersion -- would it really make sense for a game about the American Revolution to allow female characters to become military generals?

Dark Age of Camelot certainly saw its share of success pairing real-world European legend and modern 20th-century fantasy, while its cousin Imperator, set in a futuristic Roman Empire, was canceled in favor of another Mythic game. World of Tanks thrives off historical realism, whereas the upcoming The Secret World is making an art-form of layering myth over mundane. Still, history-flavored games are very much in the minority, perhaps because they allow studios much less freedom of lore design. What do you think -- do historical (or pseudo-historical) MMOs work for you? Do you prefer pure escapism, or would you rather play in a "home-turf" setting whose real-world backstory is your own?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you prefer historical settings? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgbroken-swordcharles-cecildaocdark-age-of-camelotgdcgdc-austin-2011historical-themeshistoryimperatorlegendmythmythicmythologyopinionreal-worldsettingtdgthe-daily-grindthe-secret-worldtswwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineworld-of-tankswotThu, 13 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC Online 2011: Chatting planes, tanks, and battleships with Wargaming.net]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/gdc-austin-2011-planes-tanks-and-battleships-wargaming-sh/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/gdc-austin-2011-planes-tanks-and-battleships-wargaming-sh/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/12/gdc-austin-2011-planes-tanks-and-battleships-wargaming-sh/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Just a year ago, Wargaming.net was at GDC Online to promote World of Tanks. At the time, it was still in closed beta, with open beta still a month away. Nevertheless, the team was enthusiastic and excited to share its plans for the game.

What a difference a year makes. Today, World of Tanks has weathered a successful launch, surpassing five million registered players in August and setting a Guinness World Record for simultaneous player connections at 91,311. Retail boxes are now arriving in stores, and game updates have come at a steady pace. On top of that, the company is working on World of Warplanes and World of Battleships as it expands on its wartime MMO series. This week at GDC Austin, Massively had a chance to talk to Vice President of Public Relations in North America Bryan Davies and PR Manager Arthur Pratapopau, and they shared some news about all three titles. Read on for highlights from the interview.

Gallery: World of Warplanes

Continue reading GDC Online 2011: Chatting planes, tanks, and battleships with Wargaming.net

MassivelyGDC Online 2011: Chatting planes, tanks, and battleships with Wargaming.net originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arthur-pratapopaubryan-daviesfeaturedgalleriesgallerygdcgdc-onlineGDC-Online-2011interviewinterviewspreviewscreenshotswargaming.netwobworld-of-battleshipsworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplaneswotwowpWed, 12 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks retail box coming to Europe in November]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/world-of-tanks-retail-box-coming-to-europe-in-november/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/world-of-tanks-retail-box-coming-to-europe-in-november/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/06/world-of-tanks-retail-box-coming-to-europe-in-november/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - tank blowing up a small town
World of Tanks boxed editions landed in American brick-and-mortar stores last month, and a new press release indicates that European retailers are about to join the party.

Deep Silver has secured the publishing rights to Wargaming.net's World War II-based action MMO, and the company will be bringing the game to the UK, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, Portugal, Greece, Benelux, and Nordic countries in short order.

The package features the game itself plus bonus content in the form of in-game currency, premium account access, and a premium German tank. The World of Tanks box will cost £7.99 and is scheduled for a November 15th release.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Tanks retail box coming to Europe in November originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmobox-editiondeep-silverf2pfree-to-playgerman-tankpress-releaseretail-boxtankswargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotww2wwiiThu, 06 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Battleships website leaves dry dock]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/world-of-battleships-website-leaves-dry-dock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/world-of-battleships-website-leaves-dry-dock/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/world-of-battleships-website-leaves-dry-dock/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

World of Battleships
Anchor up and full speed ahead, first mate -- the World of Battleships website is fully operational!

Wargaming.net's latest entry into the "World of" series is taking the battle to the sea, handing the wheel of classic 20th century battleships to players and waving liability insurance. The website allows us to get a better look at the fleet vs. fleet title, with information, videos and screenshots ahoy.

Wargaming.net's Victor Kislyi broke the champagne bottle over the website's bow: "We're excited to launch World of Battleships' website. We want to make it home for all those in love with naval battles and WWII-era warships."

The title was announced a month ago, and is the third entry in Wargaming.net's increasingly popular vehicle-based PvP MMOs.

Gallery: World of Battleships

MassivelyWorld of Battleships website leaves dry dock originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>galleryofficial-websitepvpscreenshotstrailervictor-kislyivideowargaming.netwebsiteworld-of-battleshipsworld-of-tanksworld-war-2wwiiTue, 13 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wargaming.net publishes World of Tanks development plan]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/wargaming-net-publishes-world-of-tanks-development-plan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/wargaming-net-publishes-world-of-tanks-development-plan/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/wargaming-net-publishes-world-of-tanks-development-plan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - screenshot
Wargaming.net has gifted World of Tanks fans with a development roadmap for the World War II-based action MMO, and a visit to the game's official website will give you a preview of what's coming down the pike over the next year.

The post lays out quite a bit of information, most of it marked with vague release windows like Q3 2012 and so on. There's the standard "dates are subject to change" disclaimer, but it's nonetheless interesting to see what looks to be a fairly complete development schedule. What are the highlights? Well, more tank models, of course, followed by new game types including historical battle, escort, garage battle, assault, and company battle modes.

There's also an expansion of the clan wars map in the works, as well as new customization options, vehicle physics, and more.

[Thanks to Greg for the tip!]

MassivelyWargaming.net publishes World of Tanks development plan originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assaultcompany-battle-divisionscustomizationdev-plandev-roadmapdevelopment-roadmapescortf2pfree-to-playgarage-battlehistorical-battlenew-contentnew-game-modesnew-tankstankswargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotww2wwiMon, 12 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Roll into the World of Tanks with a starter pack from Massively]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/roll-into-the-world-of-tanks-with-a-starter-pack-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/roll-into-the-world-of-tanks-with-a-starter-pack-from-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/roll-into-the-world-of-tanks-with-a-starter-pack-from-massively/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Tank go boom
Last week, we had a giveaway for some World of Tanks gift packages. The codes went very quickly in the ensuing stampede, leaving those who haven't tried the game wondering what the fuss was all about.

If you're one of those people, you're in luck, because we've got a second giveaway just for you! Wargaming.net has given us 3,000 starter packages containing 300 gold, one day of premium account access, and an M3Stuart premium tank.

The codes are valid in Europe and North America for new accounts only. Simply visit our giveaway page to claim a code, then register for a World of Tanks account using this link. Add your code to the "Invite Code" field, download and install the game, and enjoy!

[Edit: Be sure that you're a) applying this only to a new account, and b) entering your code on the appropriate registration page for your region (US or EU)]

[Sorry, all codes have been claimed]

MassivelyRoll into the World of Tanks with a starter pack from Massively originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgiveawaygiveawayswargaming.networld-of-tankswotFri, 09 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrate World of Tanks' Labor Day events with a giveaway from Massively!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/celebrate-world-of-tanks-labor-day-events-with-a-giveaway-from/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/celebrate-world-of-tanks-labor-day-events-with-a-giveaway-from/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/02/celebrate-world-of-tanks-labor-day-events-with-a-giveaway-from/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Boom tank
The folks at Wargaming.net have been pretty busy with World of Tanks events lately, and they're not planning to slow down any time soon. This holiday weekend will feature some fun events on the North American servers, giving players in the US even more of a reason to play during the long weekend.

Here at Massively we've got a little something extra to help you celebrate: a gift package containing 500 gold, 20,000 credits, and one day of premium account access during which you'll gain a 50% boost to XP and credits earned. The package is valid on all accounts, new or old.

Simply visit our giveaway page to pick up your key, apply it on the World of Tanks promo code page, and enjoy!

[Sorry, all codes have been claimed]

MassivelyCelebrate World of Tanks' Labor Day events with a giveaway from Massively! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestsf2pfree-to-playgiveawaygiveawayswargaming.networld-of-tankswotFri, 02 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks rumbles into retail stores]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/world-of-tanks-rumbles-into-retail-stores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/world-of-tanks-rumbles-into-retail-stores/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/01/world-of-tanks-rumbles-into-retail-stores/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - Russian tank
It's official: You can now purchase World of Tanks in a retail store near you. Wargaming.net has shipped boxes of its free-to-play World War II heavy armor MMO to stores, including GameStop, Wal-Mart, Fry's, and others, and the retail package comes loaded with $30 worth of in-game items.

Players will receive a T2 light tank, one week's worth of premium account access, 1,050,000 credits, and 1,800 gold -- all for $19.99. If you can't make it out to your local games dealer, you'll find the World of Tanks retail box for sale at many online stores as well, including Best Buy.com, New Egg, and Amazon.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks rumbles into retail stores originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmohistoricalonline-storephysical-mediaretailretail-boxretail-packageretail-storetankswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotww2wwiiThu, 01 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively's guide to PAX 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/massivelys-guide-to-pax-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/massivelys-guide-to-pax-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/25/massivelys-guide-to-pax-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

PAX 2011: Massively's guide
What can be said about PAX Prime in Seattle, Washington that hasn't been said already? Everyone knows that it is the largest public gaming event in North America. Attendance totaled 67,600 last year, not including press and exhibitors. And this year, even more gamers will descend on the Washington State Convention and Trade Center. The latest and greatest games -- released and unreleased -- will be available for public consumption. Developers will mill around the showroom floor, answering your questions. Not to mention that no one will look at you funny because you play video games!

This year, MMORPGs really stand out in the crowd. Seattle native NCsoft has a huge presence at the convention, borrowing a theater just to showcase its games. BioWare comes armed with its heavy-hitter, Star Wars: The Old Republic. And free-to-play titles like Firefall, Lord of the Rings Online, and Wakfu promise to strut their stuff at this year's PAX.

Punch past the break as Massively outlines the must-see booths for MMO fans. And don't forget the panels, including a couple of MMO spotlights for PAX Dev, the gathering of fans and developers at Sheraton Seattle Hotel on the 24th and 25th.

Continue reading Massively's guide to PAX 2011

MassivelyMassively's guide to PAX 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alienwareAnetantecarenanetBioWarecarbinecarbine-studiosccpCity-ofcity-of-heroescity-of-heroes-freedomCity-of-VillainsCoHcoh-freedomCoVCoXdaniel-ericksondefiancedust-514EAElectronic-Artsend-of-nationsEVE-OnlinefeaturedFinal-FantasyfirefallfreedomFuncomglobal-agendaguild-warsGuild-Wars-2gwgw2hi-rezhi-rez-studiosleague-of-legendslogitechLoLlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelord-of-the-rings-rise-of-isengardlotroLucasArtsncsoftparagonparagon-studiosPAXpax-2011pax-primepax-prime-2011perfect-world-entertainmentred-5red-5-studiosred5Red5-StudiosRIFTriotriot-gamesrise-of-isengardrusty-heartssecret-worldsmiteSquare-EnixSquareEnixStar-Warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republicthe-secret-worldtortribes-ascendTriontrion-worldsTSWTurbineTurbine-Entertainmentwakfuwargaming.netWildStarworld-of-tanksworld-of-warplanesThu, 25 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks mirrors history with Battle for the Dnieper special event]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/world-of-tanks-mirrors-history-with-battle-for-the-dnieper-speci/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/world-of-tanks-mirrors-history-with-battle-for-the-dnieper-speci/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/world-of-tanks-mirrors-history-with-battle-for-the-dnieper-speci/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- World of Tanks
Wargaming.net has long touted World of Tanks' historical accuracy when it comes to its tanks' designs and specs. The studio very clearly knows its history, as evidenced by the forthcoming Battle for the Dnieper event.

The event, which commemorates a massive World War II battle involving nearly four million people, brings players a couple of opportunities. For starters, from August 25th to 26th, all profit gained by players using the Hummel, SU-8, and M41 SPGs will be doubled. Players will also be able to rename tanks and purchase new ones at highly discounted prices. Topping off the event is the Call of Heroes contest, which challenges players to see who can acquire the highest number of achievements before the end of the contest on August 29th. So what are you waiting for, soldier? Get out there and show everyone else who the real hero is.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks mirrors history with Battle for the Dnieper special event originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-for-dnieperbattle-for-the-dniepercompetitioncontesteventf2pfree-to-playhistoricalhistoryin-game-eventsalewargamingwargaming.networld-of-tankswotWed, 24 Aug 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Game Developers Choice Online Awards announces finalists, EQ to be ushered into Hall of Fame]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/game-developers-choice-online-awards-announces-finalists-eq-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/game-developers-choice-online-awards-announces-finalists-eq-to/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/23/game-developers-choice-online-awards-announces-finalists-eq-to/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

GDC Online Awards
It's not quite to the prestigious level of the Academy Awards -- yet -- but the Game Developers Choice Online Awards is fast becoming one of the more well-known and highly respected award ceremonies in the MMO world while only being in its second year. With October 12th's ceremony coming soon, the field has been narrowed by 400 industry leaders into a competitive pool of nominees in a dozen categories.

The categories include Best Online Visual Arts, Best Social Network Game, Best Online Game Design, Online Innovation, Best Online Technology, Best Community Relations, Best Audio For An Online Game, Best New Online Game, and Best Live Game. Several popular MMOs, including RIFT, DC Universe Online, World of Tanks and Wizard101, are up for a possible award.

In addition, the awards will recognize Kesmai Corporation founders John Taylor and Kelton Flinn for the Online Game Legend Award. EverQuest, too, will be getting its long-overdue kudos as it is ushered into the Hall of Fame.

We'll be anxious to see which games grab the gold this fall, but until then we're just going to grouse that we weren't tapped to be one of the judges.

MassivelyGame Developers Choice Online Awards announces finalists, EQ to be ushered into Hall of Fame originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academy-awardsawardaward-ceremonyawardsdc-universe-onlinedcuoeqeverquestfinalistsgame-developers-choice-online-awardsgdcgdcoahall-of-famejohn-taylorkelton-flinnkesmai-corporationmmo-awardsnominationsnomineesonline-awardsonline-gaming-awardsriftwizard101world-of-tanksTue, 23 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks coming to retail in late August]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/world-of-tanks-coming-to-retail-in-late-august/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/world-of-tanks-coming-to-retail-in-late-august/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/world-of-tanks-coming-to-retail-in-late-august/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - tank firing
Collectors rejoice! World of Tanks is coming to a retail establishment near you on August 31st. The free-to-play action MMO, which launched in April as a digital download title, will now be available as a boxed version priced at $19.99.

So what's in it for consumers apart from the decidedly retro notion of owning a physical copy of a game? Quite a bit, actually, as the package includes the full game client and approximately $30 worth of in-game items including a premium account, game credits, gold, and an upgraded tank.

World of Tanks has been played by over 5 million people and features historically accurate renditions of more than 150 armored vehicles from America, Germany, and the Soviet Union. The game is the first entry in Wargaming.net's action MMO trilogy, which includes World of Warplanes and World of Battleships.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks coming to retail in late August originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-itemsf2pfree-to-playhistoricalin-game-itemsphysical-copypress-releaseretailretail-boxretail-editionwarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2World-War-IIwotww2wwiiFri, 19 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST