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[Free for All: Zeroing in on my favorite free-to-play mains]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/free-for-all-zeroing-in-on-my-favorite-free-to-play-mains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/free-for-all-zeroing-in-on-my-favorite-free-to-play-mains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/free-for-all-zeroing-in-on-my-favorite-free-to-play-mains/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

My Vanguard main
I felt a little nostalgic this week. Heck, at my age, I feel nostalgic every time I smell chimney smoke or hear Christmas music. I suspect it will only grow more common with age. MMOs have been such a huge part of my life for well over a decade now that I feel nostalgic about many of the things that happened during that time, and for many of the characters I have grown -- and lost.

I'm not overly sentimental about it, but it is interesting how we feel about the pixelated versions of ourselves, the ones we control while sitting at a keyboard or while touching a tablet. I don't want to downplay how important gaming can be for many of us, either. Once, years ago, I met a fellow player in a social game called There. She was a wonderful person who had over time lost the ability to walk. She loved the freedom that the avatar gave her. Needless to say, she was very connected to her character.

I made a short list of some of my favorite characters from the years. As I think about it, this list says a lot about me as a gamer and about the types of games I love.

Continue reading Free for All: Zeroing in on my favorite free-to-play mains

MassivelyFree for All: Zeroing in on my favorite free-to-play mains originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbeau-turkeyChangyouf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playfreemiumglitchjagexmilmoopinionrunescapeRyzomSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentspellbornthe-chronicles-of-spellborntheretiny-speckVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvelvet-ropezentiaWed, 09 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Looking back on two years and making changes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/rise-and-shiny-looking-back-at-two-years-and-a-change-of-order/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/rise-and-shiny-looking-back-at-two-years-and-a-change-of-order/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/06/rise-and-shiny-looking-back-at-two-years-and-a-change-of-order/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
This column will turn two years old on May 8th, 2012. I'm proud of not only the fact that I have been able keep up the column with a decent amount of content and writing that has slowly gotten better over that time but also the fact that I have introduced the readers of Massively to so many games that they wouldn't otherwise have known about. Recently, I have increased my efforts by streaming odd and indie games as well as writing about the relatively new world of mobile MMOs.

This might all seem like I am attempting to build some sort of indie hipster street cred, but the totally honest truth is that nothing thrills me more than exposing a new game to the world or giving an older game some much-needed sunlight. If someone posts, "This game is still around?" in the comments section, I call that a win.

From now on, I am going to tweak how I do things for Rise and Shiny in order to raise the quality of coverage. Let me explain how as well as give you a few figures to illustrate just how many titles I have covered.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Looking back on two years and making changes

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Looking back on two years and making changes originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onLiveStreammabinogimassively-tvmassivelytvmilmomvtvrise-and-shinystreamstreamingtwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvtwo-year-anniversaryvideozentiaSun, 06 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How do you like to move it move it?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-like-to-move-it-move-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-like-to-move-it-move-it/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/the-daily-grind-how-do-you-like-to-move-it-move-it/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Zentia likes to move it move it
Zentia, Guild Wars, and a sampling of other MMOs offer what seems to me a bizarre movement option: click-to-move. I suppose I'm a first-person or chase-cam kinda girl, but I can't imagine using click-to-move in any sort of competitive 3-D gaming environment. There's always a better use for those mouse-clicks. Granted, I can understand why it's the only option in a strategy-sandbox like the freshly launched Wakfu, and I did have a go at making click-to-move work in Guild Wars on a touchscreen, but even that was iffy at best.

So today I'm wondering, when exactly is click-to-move the best option? And how do you like to move it move it in MMOs?

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: How do you like to move it move it? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brianna-royce-tdgchase-camclick-to-movefirst-personfirst-person-viewguild-warsgwmovementopinionsandboxtdgthe-daily-grindtouchscreenzentiaSat, 03 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The Week of February 18th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-18th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-18th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/26/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-18th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously on MVTV logo
It's time again to look back on the previous week of MassivelyTV and dig up the greatest moments that we could find! The best thing about this column is that if you have missed the earlier week's streams due to real life hassles, you can now sit back in the comforting arms of the weekend and watch hours and hours of livestreaming action -- only the choicest cuts picked by the staff.

And this week we have some goodies for sure. Starting off, Richie jumped back into Guild Wars, Mike acted like a newb in 0.0 space in EVE Online, and Adventure Mike stole a time machine and visited Nexus: Kingdom of the Winds once again. Plus we saw more Guild Wars action with Adventure Mike, RuneScape on my Thursday stream, and a bit of Zentia!

Make some popcorn, sit back, and click past the cut. Well, click past the cut and hit play first, then sit back. Unless you have a wireless mouse, then you can... well, you get me.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The Week of February 18th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The Week of February 18th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetArena-Netbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedccpCCP-GamesChangyoueve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumftpguild-warslive-eventslivestreammvtvnexus-kingdom-of-the-windspreviously-on-mv-tvpvprunescapeSandboxtwitch-tvtwitchtvzentiaSun, 26 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Cloud Nine]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/rise-and-shiny-recap-cloud-nine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/rise-and-shiny-recap-cloud-nine/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/rise-and-shiny-recap-cloud-nine/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Cloud Nine screenshot
You know, I haven't been as head over heels in love with the graphics of a game in a long time as I am with Cloud Nine. As I get older, I find myself disliking more realistic graphics and tend to enjoy cartoony, or even better, stylized graphics that do not quite push into cartoony territory. It's not like I'm trying to relive my youth; I just take a game more "seriously" when it attempts to look less serious while actually being pretty serious. I'm talking about games like Free Realms or Ryzom or Glitch: games that are cartoony and not ultra-realistic but do boast some serious gameplay or even lore behind the art. I love that.

So when I first logged into Cloud Nine, you can imagine how I felt.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Cloud Nine

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Cloud Nine originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindChangyoucloud-ninef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpLiveStreamnetgamerappelzrose-onlinetwitch-tvtwitchtvvideozentiaSun, 12 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ChangYou reports record profits for the year]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/changyou-reports-record-profits-for-the-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/changyou-reports-record-profits-for-the-year/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/changyou-reports-record-profits-for-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Don't chang us, we'll chang you?
If you live in China and play online, you know the name ChangYou. The company is a bit less well-known over in the US, but it's still made a name for itself with quirky titles like Zentia and Duke of Mount Deer. It's also apparently making a massive amount of money. According to the company's fourth quarter financial report, ChangYou wound up with a total gross revenue of $435.5 million, with profits surging to $248 million.

CEO Tao Wang says the company can thank a variety of games for its success -- the aforementioned Duke of Mount Deer, an expansion for Tian Long Ba Bu, and the browser-based DDTank. The success of the company in the online market is just part of the ever-expanding Chinese marketplace, which generated over $5 billion dollars last year alone. That's good news for ChangYou and its fans, since the company will enter the next year with plenty of money to generate more games.

MassivelyChangYou reports record profits for the year originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessbusiness-informationchangyouddtankduke-of-mount-deerindustrymmo-industryprofitsrevenuetao-wangtian-long-ba-buzentiaMon, 06 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ChangYou reports record revenue, registered accounts]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/changyou-reports-record-revenue-registered-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/changyou-reports-record-revenue-registered-accounts/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/changyou-reports-record-revenue-registered-accounts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

ChangYou logo
With all the layoffs that seem to be going around the MMO industry as of late, it's about time we hear some good news from a developer. ChangYou, known in North America primarily for its quirky title Zentia and the bizarrely named Duke of Mount Deer, reports a 119 million USD revenue for its third fiscal quarter.

The company's amount of registered users rose as well, with the company citing 159 million current gamers inhabiting ChangYou's titles. CEO Tao Wang is understandably pleased with these results and says that "we believe these results once again demonstrate our ability to understand and fulfill gamers' needs and showcase our content development and game operation strengths." For the full details, check out the article over at Gamasutra.

MassivelyChangYou reports record revenue, registered accounts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changyouduke-of-mount-deereconomicseconomyf2pfinancefree-to-playmiscmiscellaneousprofitsregistered-usersrevenuesuccesstao-wanguserszentiaMon, 31 Oct 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zentia's 1.4 update heralds Dragon Boat Festival and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/zentias-1-4-update-heralds-dragon-boat-festival-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/zentias-1-4-update-heralds-dragon-boat-festival-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/zentias-1-4-update-heralds-dragon-boat-festival-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Zentia screenshot
Fans of ChangYou's cutesy Chinese-flavored MMO Zentia are in for a tasty summer treat today. The company is wrapping up the season with the launch of update 1.4, which brings with it the first part of the third Heavenly Test, known as the Ten-Position Test. No, that's not veiled innuendo -- Zentia's Heavenly Tests are world events in which elite groups of players compete to advance the server and level-cap. The patch also offers new disciplines, quests, drop-rate tweaks, paintings, updates to the cash shop (including new pirate-themed costumes), and a new instance named Silent Altar Challenge, which is aimed at highbie players.

Coinciding with this content update is the introduction of a new themed event called the Dragon Boat Festival. Running from August 17th to the 24th, the festival encourages players to donate raw materials to NPCs called Provincial Officers, who will craft the titular dragon boats and teach players how to make party food known as zongzi. A "surprise" awaits those who lend their materials to the project, so if you're in the mood for a snack and a boat ride, don't delay.

Past the break, we've included an official trailer highlighting the best of the patch. Enjoy!

Continue reading Zentia's 1.4 update heralds Dragon Boat Festival and more

MassivelyZentia's 1.4 update heralds Dragon Boat Festival and more originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changyoudragon-boat-festivalf2pfree-to-playheavenly-testpatchsilent-altar-challengeten-position-testtrailertrailersupdatevideovideoszentiaWed, 17 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: New Zentia patch 1.3 screenshots and trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/massively-exclusive-new-zentia-patch-1-3-screenshots-and-traile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/massively-exclusive-new-zentia-patch-1-3-screenshots-and-traile/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/massively-exclusive-new-zentia-patch-1-3-screenshots-and-traile/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Zentia fans get a special treat today, as ChangYou has given us a few goodies to help show off Zentia's upcoming patch 1.3. We have a handful of new screenshots as well as a short trailer to help whet your appetites for stylized martial-arts action.

What's new in Zentia version 1.3? For starters, character creation and selection have both received an overhaul and boast brand new designs to make the process even smoother. A new tutorial has been introduced to the game as well, letting new players get their bearings on the Immortal Plane. For long-time players, the patch introduces a new high-level epic questline that culminates in a battle with the demon lord, Demonor. Check the gallery for the new screenshots, and kung-fu kick your way past the cut for the trailer.

Gallery: Zentia Patch 1.3 Preview

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: New Zentia patch 1.3 screenshots and trailer

MassivelyMassively Exclusive: New Zentia patch 1.3 screenshots and trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.3changyoucharacter-creationdemonorf2pfree-to-playpatch-1.3tutorialzentiaTue, 05 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/21/mmobility-fifty-games-for-the-mobile-lifestyle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

I like lists. Lists help keep my candy-coated brain functioning. I see so many games, devices, and developers that I need to write things down periodically or become lost. Not so long ago I made a list of 25 games for your shiny new laptop, but I wanted to update it with other devices as well. I'd like to clarify the devices I have, though, especially since it was brought to my attention that a lot of players use laptops as their primary gaming machines. When I refer to a laptop, it is far from a gaming machine and could not run games like EverQuest II or Age of Conan.

So here are some stats: I have an HTC Inspire, an iPhone 3GS, an iPad, a Phenom Triple-core PC desktop with an Nvidia 9800 card, six gigs of ram and onboard sound. My laptop is an HP G62 with an AMD Athlon II P340 dual core processor, three gigs of ram and an AMD graphics chip built in. I also have a more powerful gaming PC, but that is often referred to as "the wife's machine" around here, and it is so packed with her items that I rarely touch it. So most of these games can be run on their native devices, and if they are meant for PC, probably on netbooks as well. When I'm playing on netbooks, resolution is often the major issue. Some games just will not fit on the tiny screens without some slight modding.

Anyway, click past the cut to see the list. The first 11 are my favorites, the ones that I play often, if not every day. The rest are in no particular order, so keep that in mind as well. Remember that this year is going to be an incredible one for mobile, thanks to the new games I found at E3. So this list will change!

Continue reading MMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle

MassivelyMMObility: Fifty games for the mobile lifestyle originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landadventurequest-worldsAnarchy-Onlineasherons-callatmosphirbattlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanccpcity-of-eternalsClone-Wars-Adventurescrowns-of-powerdark-orbitdark-orbit-gamesdie2niteDofusdomain-of-heroesdragon-fabledungeon-blitzeden-eternaleve-onlineeverquestf2pfeaturedfleckfree-realmsfree-to-playftpfusion-fallgilfors-talesglitchgunshineillyriadkingsisle-entertainmentlinkrealmsmabinogiMapleStorymilmoministry-of-warmiramagiaMMObilitymobilemonkey-questmonster-forestnadirimNexonorder-and-chaos-onlinepets-vs-monsterspirate-galaxypocket-legendspockie-ninjapoptropicapuzzle-piratesrunescapeshin-megami-tensei-imagine-onlineSOEspiral-knightsThreeRingstravianswakfuwizard-101World-of-WarcraftzentiaTue, 21 Jun 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Zentia trailer showcases 25-man raids]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/new-zentia-trailer-showcases-25-man-raids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/new-zentia-trailer-showcases-25-man-raids/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/27/new-zentia-trailer-showcases-25-man-raids/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"No matter how powerful you think you may be, no matter how much epic gear you may have, something will always smack you down. There is of course a better way. Gather 25 friends and bring the heat." ChangYou's newest raid trailer invites you to take on one of the game's three toughest raid bosses in its new trailer for Zentia.

Whether you're up against the gargantuan Ghost Wold Spider (ew ew ew ew ew ew), the psychic Clairaudient, or the ominously named Nine Shadow Scorpion (EW EW EW EW EW EW), there's no doubt that you and your 24 best friends are in for a challenge. So Zentia wants to know, "Are you a boss?" For gameplay footage of players against these big nasties, jump on past the cut and join the battle at Zentia's official site.

Continue reading New Zentia trailer showcases 25-man raids

MassivelyNew Zentia trailer showcases 25-man raids originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 27 May 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>25-man-raidchangyouEW-SCORPIONSew-spidersf2pfree-to-playraidtrailervideozentiaFri, 27 May 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Allods Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/rise-and-shiny-recap-allods-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/rise-and-shiny-recap-allods-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/rise-and-shiny-recap-allods-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Oh, Allods Online. You poor, misunderstood beast. Those who love you speak very little, while those who once loved you and were burned for whatever reason... well, they speak the most. I tried to keep this in mind when I took an "official" look at (or re-visit in) the game. Allods has been called many, many things since first rearing its beautiful head, but no one seems to talk about how fun, or not fun, it is. Generally all you hear about are cash-shop woes.

I already have a character that I never leveled past 11, so I logged him in and got right to it. Despite all the patches, fixes, tweaks and cash-shop rearranges that went on since I last actively played, the game seemed pretty much the same. It was still beautiful, ran well, and sounded nice. So what was I looking for? What would I notice that I had not noticed before?

Click past the cut and I'll tell you all about it.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Allods Online

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Allods Online originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 May 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlinebeau-hindmancash-shopf2pfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xifree-to-playftpgpotatolinden-labLiveStreamngesecond-lifestar-wars-galaxiesWorld-of-WarcraftzentiaSun, 08 May 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WonderCon MMORPG industry panel explores key topics of the day]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/wondercon-mmorpg-industry-panel-explores-key-topics-of-the-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/wondercon-mmorpg-industry-panel-explores-key-topics-of-the-day/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/02/wondercon-mmorpg-industry-panel-explores-key-topics-of-the-day/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

At last month's WonderCon in San Francisco, three MMO industry experts sat down to do a panel on many of the pressing questions and issues that players have these days. The lively panel, moderated by PC Gamer's Josh Augustine, consisted of Dirk Metzger (Zentia), Scott Hartsman (RIFT) and Nick Huggett (Runes of Magic), each taking turns to address some of the questions that are commonly asked about these games and the industry at large.

These topics included player retention, free-to-play vs. subscription business models, the endless comparisons to World of Warcraft, why MMOs tend to be fantasy-based, some of the biggest mistakes in the genre, how to appeal to both hardcore and casual players, the differences between the Asian and North American market, and the struggle to provide player-created content.

The rise of social media also has a significant effect on MMO development, according to Hartsman. "What that kind of forces us to do, bluntly, is make better games right off the bat, because people will tell you if your game sucks."

You can watch the video highlights of the panel after the jump.

Continue reading WonderCon MMORPG industry panel explores key topics of the day

MassivelyWonderCon MMORPG industry panel explores key topics of the day originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 02 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asianbusiness-modelcasualDirk-Metzgerf2pfree-to-playhardcoreindustry-panelNick-Huggettnorth-americanpanelplayer-retentionriftromrunes-of-magicscott-hartsmansocial-mediasubscriptionvideowonderconworld-of-warcraftzentiaMon, 02 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zentia developer ChangYou spends $68 million on a browser game company]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/zentia-developer-changyou-spends-68-million-on-a-browser-game-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/zentia-developer-changyou-spends-68-million-on-a-browser-game-c/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/25/zentia-developer-changyou-spends-68-million-on-a-browser-game-c/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Brower-based gaming is starting to really catch on, with a variety of games either staking out the browser as the sole required program or offering play options to browser-bound players. ChangYou, the development company most known to western readers for its game Zentia, has apparently decided that the browser field is worth investing in to the tune of $68.3 million, as it was just announced today that the company had purchased a controlling interest in Chinese company Shenzhen 7Road Technology Co.

The acquisition is intended to complete on June 30th, with up to $32 million more up for grabs if Shenzhen 7Road manages to meet certain performance milestones through the end of next year. While there's plenty of reason to speculate about what this means for the future, it's certainly interesting to note that a free-to-play game developer is making such a large investment in a browser company -- an action that could have long-term ramifications for both present and future games.

MassivelyZentia developer ChangYou spends $68 million on a browser game company originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionsbrowser-basedbrowser-based-gamingbrowser-clientsbusinessbusiness-modelschangyouf2pfree-to-playindustry-newsmergersmmo-industryzentiaMon, 25 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zentia dishes on virtual romance and expansions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/zentia-dishes-on-virtual-romance-and-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/zentia-dishes-on-virtual-romance-and-expansions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/zentia-dishes-on-virtual-romance-and-expansions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

It looks like ChangYou, publishers of Massively favorite Zentia, has been keeping itself really busy lately. Besides its recent opening of a PvE server, the company has now released a major expansion for the game. What's inside the rollout? A lot. You can marry your in-game sweetheart thanks to the new marriage system, adventure up to the new level cap, explore new areas and dungeons, check out the new discipline system, tame and collect new mounts and pets, sell your items to other players for tokens, and much more.

Of course, you could go to the official site and just read the patch notes, but we can do you one better. We thought the expansion marked the perfect time to sit down with Susan Revelt, the game's producer. She was gracious enough to take some time out between napping at her desk, drinking gallons of coffee, and shooting Nerf Guns at her wily community manager to answer our questions.

Click past the cut and enjoy the interview and trailer!

Continue reading Zentia dishes on virtual romance and expansions

MassivelyZentia dishes on virtual romance and expansions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopChangyouexpansionf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftplevel-cap-increasepatchessusan-reveltvirtual-marriagezentiazentia-patch-1.2Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zentia pushes patch 1.2 live]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/zentia-pushes-patch-1-2-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/zentia-pushes-patch-1-2-live/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/zentia-pushes-patch-1-2-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you've been looking forward to the big expansion patch for Zentia, you're in luck. The patch has recently gone live, giving players a chance to enjoy a plethora of content -- including the marriage system, a rather apropos addition that allows players to have both a ceremony and a reception to commemorate the happiest in-game day of their characters' lives. And if you're not quite feeling in the spirit of Valentine's Day, the newly increased level cap should still offer you plenty to work toward.

East Island, a level 70-80 zone, has also been added to the game, complete with mounts and pets to locate. There's also a new Discipline system in place to allow players to focus on new class-based combat skills, helping to distinguish characters and focus specialization. Between that and a variety of new items (including some additions to the cash shop, as could be expected), Zentia players have more ways than ever to enhance a character and plenty of new content to enjoy.

MassivelyZentia pushes patch 1.2 live originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changyouchangyou.comexpansion-patchf2pfree-to-playin-game-marriagelevel-caplevel-cap-increaselevelsmarriagenew-contentnew-zonespatchpatchesupdateszentiazentia-patch-1.2Mon, 14 Feb 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MV Guide: February 7 - 14, 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/mv-guide-february-7-14-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/mv-guide-february-7-14-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/mv-guide-february-7-14-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


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 games to take a look at. During Livestream events, you can participate in the live chat to learn about the game, ask questions, and spend some time with Massively staff and readers.

Did you miss out on something from last week's events? Take heart -- most of them were captured on our on-demand channel for you to watch at your leisure. Shawn logged some time in Earthrise, Beau treated us to a double feature with both Perfect World and Ragnarok Online, Larry continued his crime-fighting agenda in DC Universe Online, and Karen had some fun with her EverQuest II guildies.

Continue reading MV Guide: February 7 - 14, 2011

MassivelyMV Guide: February 7 - 14, 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allodsallods-onlinedc-universe-onlinedcuoEQ2EQIIEverQuest-2everquest-iifactionsfeaturedfrfree-realmsguild-warsgwlivestreamlivestreamingmv-guideromrunes-of-magiczentiaMon, 07 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrate Zentia's upcoming patch with our mount giveaway!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/celebrate-zentias-upcoming-patch-with-our-mount-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/celebrate-zentias-upcoming-patch-with-our-mount-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/31/celebrate-zentias-upcoming-patch-with-our-mount-giveaway/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Zentia devs are gearing up to bring a lot of new content to their game. Patch 1.2 promises to bring even more fun to a game that already boasts a quirky and popular approach to free-to-play MMO gaming.

While you're waiting for the patch, enjoy some Zentia goodies courtesy of Massively. We've got three unusual mounts to help you zip around the game in style, and each one is built for two so you can bring a friend along for the ride. Check out our giveaway pages: the Thunder Drum is sure to garner a few glances as you pass by, or you could choose to recline in the comfy seats of a Colorful Umbrella. Want something a little more classic? We've got you covered with a good old Flying Carpet mount.

We've got 100 of each to give away, so choose your favorite and get ready to take to the skies in Zentia!

MassivelyCelebrate Zentia's upcoming patch with our mount giveaway! originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chang-youcolorful-umbrellaf2pflying-carpetfree-to-playftpgiveawaygiveawaysmountmountsthunder-drumzentiaMon, 31 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: The difference between East and West]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/free-for-all-the-difference-between-east-and-west/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/free-for-all-the-difference-between-east-and-west/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/free-for-all-the-difference-between-east-and-west/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Like many gamers, I find myself going through stages of obsession. Once in a while, I'll get on a PvP kick, followed by having a thing for immersion, then I'll be consumed by running dungeons or grinding. Lately I have been investigating older Western MMOs, games like Asheron's Call, Ultima Online, Anarchy Online, and EverQuest. While I have already played all of these titles at one time or another, they can become different games between visits.

This recent kick of mine started me thinking about the first free-to-play MMOs I enjoyed, as well. The first one was either Flyff or Rose Online, around six or so years ago. I've chatted with a developer who used to work on Flyff, and she claimed that those were some of the very first free-to-plays to see success in North America.

What are the differences between the two, Western and Eastern? Is there a difference? If there were, are there still differences between Eastern free-to-play games and Western games? Click past the cut and we'll take a look.

Continue reading Free for All: The difference between East and West

MassivelyFree for All: The difference between East and West originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiabeau-hindmancash-shopcash-shopscity-of-heroeseasteasterneq2xeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedf2pforsaken-worldfree-for-allfree-to-playftpGrindgrindinglord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroMicrotransactionsturbineUltima-OnlinewestwesternWorld-of-Warcraftzentiazentia-mmoWed, 26 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zentia offers lots of goodies in upcoming patch 1.2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/zentia-offers-lots-of-goodies-in-upcoming-patch-1-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/zentia-offers-lots-of-goodies-in-upcoming-patch-1-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/zentia-offers-lots-of-goodies-in-upcoming-patch-1-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When it comes to irreverent, fun, free-to-play games that some of the crew here at Massively are fond of, Zentia has managed to earn a spot on that listing. Sure, the brightly-colored landscape may not be in everyone's style, but games that don't take themselves seriously definitely should be! Along with the promise of everyday shrimp versus crab battles, Zentia's upcoming 1.2 patch will add in a lot of things that players have been looking forward to.

Aside from a new zone, new mounts, pets, items and more things of a normal nature that players expect in large updates, patch 1.2 will also offer up many other changes. Among the plans are a new Marriage system, a way to earn even more experience, and a Consignment system that will allow players to sell their items to other players server-wide. For now, while we wait for more details, we have a teaser trailer after the jump, offering a first look into this upcoming Zentia expansion, as well as a few new screenshots tucked into the gallery below. But really, epic shrimp versus crab battles... Do we need to say more?

Gallery: Zentia Screenshots

Continue reading Zentia offers lots of goodies in upcoming patch 1.2

MassivelyZentia offers lots of goodies in upcoming patch 1.2 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChangyouChangyou.comconsignmentf2pfree-to-playgame-updatemarriagemarriage-systemmountsnew-zonepetszentiazentia-mmozentia-patch-1.2Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Three trends that need to go away in 2011]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/free-for-all-three-trends-that-need-to-go-away-in-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/free-for-all-three-trends-that-need-to-go-away-in-2011/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/05/free-for-all-three-trends-that-need-to-go-away-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

You know what? I hate geek memes. Heck, I hate the word meme. I generally will not support any term or phrase that was made popular in the last 10 years and mainly through the use of the internet. If it was made popular in programming circles in the early days of BBS (whatever that means) or if it was lovingly crafted during the great internet bubble of the '90s, I will avoid its use. Most of the time, I do not want to use someone else's words to support my own. You will never see the following sentence coming out of my virtual mouth: "Oh, hai! >.< All your base are belong to pedo bear! O.o Angry writer is angry!"

The worst of the worst has got to be "die in a fire." Yes, I know you are a geek. I get it -- you are using a term that, I am sure, qualifies you as a socially awkward individual, as someone who simply must say the most inappropriate thing at the most inappropriate times (such as during a developer chat with developers who had almost lost their lives to recent wildfires -- I am not kidding). But I will not wear that badge of geek cred.

Until now. These practices that I am about to list to you after the cut can, you know, die in a fire.

Continue reading Free for All: Three trends that need to go away in 2011

MassivelyFree for All: Three trends that need to go away in 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcash-shop-comparisoncash-shopsChangyoueq2xEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iif2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumkingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromemememesSOESony-Online-EntertainmentturbineTurbine-Entertainmentwizard101zentiazentia-mmoWed, 05 Jan 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The top indie and free-to-play stories of 2010]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/the-top-indie-and-free-to-play-stories-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/the-top-indie-and-free-to-play-stories-of-2010/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/28/the-top-indie-and-free-to-play-stories-of-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

I have to admit to feeling slightly amazed when I read that someone thought of 2010 as a bad year for MMORPG fans. Then, when I think about it, I realize that he was talking about the year in "AAA" subscription gaming -- something almost alien to me. I just don't get turned on by huge-budget subscription games like I did seven or eight years ago. Well, it might be better to say that I am always suspicious of big-budget gaming. Gaming is a lot like movies, and look at how bad most blockbusters are. They are often silly, over-the-top, special-effects-laden bores. If those movies were the only ones I watched, I might be a little depressed about Hollywood as well.

If you pay attention only to what the major publishers are pushing out, you are simply going to have a narrow view of MMO gaming. You will miss too much. The year 2010 offered more than any year before it, and 2011 will top that. Thanks to mobile technologies and the always-dropping price of computers, you will find that smaller or unknown games have much more of a chance of grabbing a gamer's eye than ever before.

So, what were some of the high and low points in free-to-play and indie gaming this year? Click past the cut and let's take a look!

Continue reading The top indie and free-to-play stories of 2010

MassivelyThe top indie and free-to-play stories of 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonallodsallods-onlineapbbattle-of-the-immortalsbeau-hindmanboicash-shopcataclysmchang-youderek-smartend-of-the-year-2010everquestEverQuest-2f2pfeaturedforsaken-worldfree-realmsfree-to-playfreemiumftpgpotatoipadiTuneskingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlegend-of-martial-artslomalord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroMapleStorymicrotransactionMicrotransactionsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpocket-legendsquest-onlineSOESony-Online-EntertainmentUltima-OnlinevanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvelvet-ropevelvet-rope-modelwe-rulewizard-101World-of-Warcraftzentiazentia-mmoTue, 28 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Updated: On the fourth day of giveaways, Zentia gave to me...]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/on-the-fourth-day-of-giveaways-zentia-gave-to-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/on-the-fourth-day-of-giveaways-zentia-gave-to-me/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/on-the-fourth-day-of-giveaways-zentia-gave-to-me/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


On the fourth day of giveaways, ChangYou gave to me... four welcome gifts!
On the third day of giveaways, Icarus gave to me... three months of gameplay!
On the second day of giveaways, Hi-Rez gave to me... two gift packages!
On the first day of giveaways, Turbine gave to me... a lifetime VIP!

Today we continue Massively's 12 Days of Giveaways! During this 12-day event, you'll find presents galore, courtesy of some of the best MMOs out there. Every day until December 24th, we'll post a new contest for you to enter. We've got a huge pile of goodies to give away, so they're going to be fast and furious -- you'll have 24 hours from the time the contest is posted to enter. Don't worry, though, because we're going to do our best to accommodate everyone -- you'll simply have to leave a comment to be entered in the random drawing, and we'll be posting each contest at a different time of day.

Today's (very generous) gifts are from Zentia, the free-to-play game from ChangYou that's gained a lot of attention. Its charm attracted and kept a high number of players, and things are busier than ever in Zentia thanks to the holidays.

Follow along after the jump to see what Zentia is up to for the holidays -- and what gifts we have for you today!

Continue reading Updated: On the fourth day of giveaways, Zentia gave to me...

MassivelyUpdated: On the fourth day of giveaways, Zentia gave to me... originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-giveawayschangyouf2pfree-to-playftpwinter-holidaywinter-holiday-2010winter-holiday-eventzentiaThu, 16 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive Zentia contest information and more]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/exclusive-zentia-contest-information-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/exclusive-zentia-contest-information-and-more/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/exclusive-zentia-contest-information-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

My, how Zentia has grown! One moment, the charming game is slowly working its way into our hearts, and the next it's parading around with a fat playerbase and upcoming contests. Well, we have more exclusive information for you again -- this time it involves server changes and prizes.
  • Time to celebrate the first PvE server opening for Zentia! The PvP server Spoon will be converted to a PvE server (date to be announced)
  • There will be no force attack on regular maps anymore
  • The battlegrounds War of Camp, Royal Hunt Park and Treasure Island will have force attack enabled
  • Don't worry; dueling will still be allowed on all maps
In celebration of the new server and the holidays, ChangYou has decreed that lucky random players will receive 200 tokens to use in the cash shop -- a total of $50,000 in tokens! On top of that, four really lucky players will receive a $500 Amazon gift card, just in time for some holiday shopping. (I wear a small, by the way.) If you'd like to find out more information about the game, check out some of our first impressions here and here. You can sign up for a free account on the website and follow the game on Facebook.

MassivelyExclusive Zentia contest information and more originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbattlegroundbattlegroundsbeau-hindmanChangyouchristmas-2010contestcontestsf2pfree-to-playftpholidayholidayspvpserver-changesserverszentiazentia-mmoFri, 03 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Do a little dance, make a little xp]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/one-shots-do-a-little-dance-make-a-little-xp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/one-shots-do-a-little-dance-make-a-little-xp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/one-shots-do-a-little-dance-make-a-little-xp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

One of the many fun parts of working here at Massively (or perhaps the pitfalls, depending on your free time quotient) is getting the chance to check out MMOs one might otherwise not have known about. A game that has become a surprise favorite amongst some of the staff is Zentia. This funky free-to-play MMO from ChangYou offers fantasy, sure -- but it takes a very silly twist on it with epic shrimp vs. crab battles, dance parties and more. Today's Zentia screenshot comes to us from Brianna Royce, our senior editor and devotee of all things silly and fun. She explains the image: "Here's a shot of the northern gates of the Serene City, one taken from the edges of the Serene Forest itself. The Serene City is the first of the large walled towns a player will encounter. In addition to featuring plentiful quests for the mid-teens character, it boasts markets for player vendor stalls and the infamous Dancing Nenny, whom you can follow and dance with (in long conga lines of players) for free experience!"

We're always on the lookout for scenes and screens of games we don't get to see often. If you'd like to contribute, just email your image to us here at oneshots@massively.com along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing. We'll post it out here for everyone to check out and give you the credit for sending it in.

Gallery: One Shots: Gallery II

MassivelyOne Shots: Do a little dance, make a little xp originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breebrianna-roycechangyouChangyou.comf2pfree-to-playone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotszentiazentia-mmoThu, 18 Nov 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zentia shows off pet and mount videos]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/zentia-shows-off-pet-and-mount-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/zentia-shows-off-pet-and-mount-videos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/zentia-shows-off-pet-and-mount-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Pay attention, MMO pet and mount fans. ChangYou.com has some new videos focusing on Zentia's furry (and scaly) companions that you might want to check out.

Over the course of the two-part video series, producer David Markowitz discusses everything from how to obtain your first pet, to basics about the interface, to the care and feeding of your pets and mounts. You can even use your pet as an automatic route to your destination in the game world, and the vids will show you how. You'll also learn about pet storage slots, battle vs. travel mounts, and pet upgrade items. Oh, and over half of the creatures you see in the Zentia game world can be captured and trained as pets or mounts, offering a ton of visual variety.

All in all, the videos are pretty invaluable for both Zentia and MMO pet fans. Check them out after the break or on the official forums.

Continue reading Zentia shows off pet and mount videos

MassivelyZentia shows off pet and mount videos originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changyoudavid-markowitzf2pfree-to-playguidemountspet-storagepet-upgradespetstutorialvideovideoszentiazentia-mmoThu, 18 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Zentia releases new content, new ways to get beat up]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/zentia-releases-new-content-new-ways-to-get-beat-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/zentia-releases-new-content-new-ways-to-get-beat-up/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/zentia-releases-new-content-new-ways-to-get-beat-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Are you enjoying the Zentia open beta so far? Judging by the response we've received here on Massively, it seems a lot of people are discovering this "charmingly hardcore" game. Well, ChangYou has gone and done it now by introducing four new playable characters, tons of new content to explore and new high-level instances to conquer.

What's in store for you as you approach the elder levels of the game? If PvP is your thing, you could always attend the Survival Event where between 10 and 40 players will be on each side, battling it out with mounts and cannons. Check the in-game events calendar for more information. Or, maybe exploring Serene City at night sounds more like your speed. In this instance-after-dark, ghosts, goblins and haunted suits of armor have taken everyone hostage. Find the secret artifact before they do!

Want to hear more? I think you know what to do -- follow me after the jump!

Continue reading Zentia releases new content, new ways to get beat up

MassivelyZentia releases new content, new ways to get beat up originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbetacash-shopChangyouChangyou.comf2pfree-to-playftpopen-betapatcheszentiazentia-mmoWed, 03 Nov 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ah, Halloween. The dark Xmas. Around our house, Halloween is king. Despite the fact that we have no kids to dress up and parade around the neighborhood, we will still hand out tons of candy to all the trick-or-treaters. Until that spooky night, however, we love to spend the time exploring different Halloween events in our favorite MMORPGs.

MMOs are perfect for such events -- they have the players to fill them out, the ability to host whatever kind of event they want, and a lot of optional blood and gore. Some of the events fit perfectly in their game-world, and some stick out like a stock broker on D&D night. Either way, there is always a lot of fun to be had, and sometimes very cool loot to snag! (Like that sweet ride pictured above -- got it on my first try.)

Read on for some of my favorite events -- none of them costing a dime.

Continue reading Free for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events

MassivelyFree for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbeau-hindmancostume-contestf2pfeaturedflyfffree-realmsfree-to-playFreejackftpglobal-agendagrand-fantasiahalloweenin-game-eventsmabinogiMapleStorypuzzle-piratesvindictuswizard-101zentiaWed, 27 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 118]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/massively-speaking-episode-118/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/massively-speaking-episode-118/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/massively-speaking-episode-118/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 118 returns this week with Beau Hindman joining Shawn for an interview with special guests Susan Revelt (Producer) and Katie Simpson (Community Manager) from ChangYou to talk all about their new F2P MMO, Zentia.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to shawn@massively.com with the subject "Massively Speaking." We may just read your email on the air!

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



Read below the cut for the full show notes.
Massively Speaking is the official podcast of Massively.com. Hosted by Editor-in-Chief Shawn Schuster and Contributing Editor Rubi Bayer, Massively Speaking takes on the week's biggest news and dev interviews with plenty of opinion, rants, and laughs thrown in for good measure. Join us every Wednesday afternoon to listen in and see what we'll say next!

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 118

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 118 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changyouf2pfree-to-playhumorkatie-simpsonmassively-speakingopinionpodcastingpodcastssusan-reveltzentiaWed, 06 Oct 2010 14:30:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 118Massively.com Staff50:14podcasts<![CDATA[Zentia celebrates open beta, new website and contests]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/zentia-celebrates-open-beta-new-website-and-contests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/zentia-celebrates-open-beta-new-website-and-contests/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/20/zentia-celebrates-open-beta-new-website-and-contests/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Zentia has been one of those surprising little games that seems to have come out of nowhere. You would be hard-pressed to find another game that features so many details under one roof -- as well as so many smart-alec monsters. Well, it seems to be taking off, thanks to its ability to prove itself to disbelievers. With this new-found success comes a series of announcements (as well as an upcoming contest from us here at Massively), starting with open beta kicking off in early October. The developers will be adding four new characters to choose from, exciting high-level content, plenty of new events and access to the token shop. A recent patch also added fixes for common issues.

Developer ChangYou also launched a brand-new website for the game and is hosting a screenshot collecting contest to celebrate. The "Legend of the Zentia Seeker" starts with a poem and details being published on the official forums:

Heroes! You are charged with a new task,
One with rewards greater than you could ask.
Complete this quest to gain the treasures you seek,
But adventurer be warned: it's not for the meek.
Find NPC's from across the land,
From the densest forest to the beaches' sands.
You will travel far, your search will be wide,
But you must discover where they all hide.
And once you have found their mysterious locations,
Take a picture of each with no hesitations.
Follow the guidelines for your chance at true bliss,
Break just one rule and your efforts are useless.
Now, heroes, I wish you all the best,
So get out there and enjoy this contest!

You can also like the game on Facebook, or follow the team on Twitter.

MassivelyZentia celebrates open beta, new website and contests originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopChangyoucontestf2pfree-to-playftpscreenshotszentiazentia-mmoMon, 20 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Knowing my limits]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/11/free-for-all-knowing-my-limits/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/11/free-for-all-knowing-my-limits/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/11/free-for-all-knowing-my-limits/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I'm a 36-year-old gamer. My eyes, ears and lungs are not what they used to be. The decline started with art, something I have been doing since I was a small child. Then I added on heavy drumming for the last 23 years. Next, throw in gaming for the last 10 or 12 years. For good measure, add in a small case of asthma. For all intents and purposes, I have enough nerd cred to keep me in the club for life.

Still, I would love to get rid of the migraines from eye strain and the aching tennis elbow. The asthma takes care of itself -- through exercise and avoiding smoking. Since I started writing for Massively, though, my eyes take on a lot more strain than they should, especially considering how defective they already are. So I've had to take steps to ensure that I'll be able to continue to write, and that I will be able to continue to write for a long, long time.

Read on, and I'll tell you what I do and what games work for me.

Continue reading Free for All: Knowing my limits

MassivelyFree for All: Knowing my limits originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbbeau-hindmanbeauhindmanCarpalTunnelSyndromeddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpglobal-agendahealthmabinogirunes-of-magicstar-wars-galaxiesswgtennis-elbowwizard-101wurm-onlinezentiaWed, 11 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Zentia]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/rise-and-shiny-recap-zentia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/rise-and-shiny-recap-zentia/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/08/rise-and-shiny-recap-zentia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Each week Rise and Shiny asks you to download and try a different free-to-play, indie or unusual game, chosen by me, Beau Hindman. Some of the games will be far out of your gaming comfort zone, and some will pleasantly surprise you. We will meet each Tuesday and Friday night at 9 p.m. EDT (8 p.m. CDT), followed by this column the Sunday after. I welcome any suggestions for games, either in the comments or at beau@massively.com or Twitter me @Beau_Hindman.

It's hard for a game to strike a perfect balance of fun and challenge. In fact, I'd say it's the result of otherworldly forces as much as it is the hard work of the developer. Many of the greatest games I have ever played are a conglomerate of many factors that were beyond the control of the artists, writers and producers who first crafted the world. Sometimes, the crew must simply hope that its ship floats, and that it happens to set her to sail just as the weather is perfect.

Then a game like ChangYou's Zentia comes along, a game that has all the wonderful qualities I am looking for -- as the result of some very smart, specific design choices made by some very creative people. Sure, I discovered the game on accident (I wasn't actively looking for a game the day Zentia fell into my lap), but the game has obviously been crafted with precision and care.

If you'd like to read up on some of the details of the game, you can check out our E3 coverage here, or read an article of mine here. Also, you can get your closed beta key here. Otherwise, see me after the break, and be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Zentia

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Zentia originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcasualChangyoucustomizationearth-eternalEQ2EverQuest-2f2pfeaturedfree-realmsfree-to-playftphands-onLiveStreammabinogirise-and-shinyVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvideoWorld-of-Warcraftzentiazentia-mmoSun, 08 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win cool Zentia goodies courtesy of ChangYou and Massively!]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/win-cool-zentia-goodies-courtesy-of-changyou-and-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/win-cool-zentia-goodies-courtesy-of-changyou-and-massively/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/win-cool-zentia-goodies-courtesy-of-changyou-and-massively/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

How would you like to win yourself a freaky-yet-cool ent mount for you and two of your friends to ride around on? How about a half-pig half-man to tote you around town? You can win one of these, courtesy of our friends over at ChangYou, makers of Zentia. If you are unfamiliar with the game, head over to this column and get yourself a closed beta key. While you're at it, read about the charming nature of the game here.

Zentia features a robust travel system, even allowing up to 10 players to travel together on one mount! You can catch your own rides, buy them or trade for them. But wouldn't you rather be seen on one of these babies? If so, read on to find out how to participate in the contest.

Continue reading Win cool Zentia goodies courtesy of ChangYou and Massively!

MassivelyWin cool Zentia goodies courtesy of ChangYou and Massively! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopChangyoucontestf2pfantasyfree-to-playftpgiveawaymountszentiazentia-mmoThu, 05 Aug 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Charmed, Zentia, I'm sure]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/free-for-all-charmed-zentia-im-sure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/free-for-all-charmed-zentia-im-sure/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/free-for-all-charmed-zentia-im-sure/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Charm is one of those words that, as a kid, I never really understood. I always pictured some southern gentleman, lemonade in hand, wooing powdered belles from his porch on a hot summer's day: that's how I defined it. But now I think I understand it so much more, and I often wonder why this industry seems to often ignore the word, or has no idea what it means. It's easiest to explain it this way:

You cannot be charming by acting cool. If you act cool, it comes out cheesy. The movie The Matrix, for example: trying to act so incredibly cool, but comes off only cheesy. You must simply be cool to be charming. You can also be truly wide-eyed, which is charming. Or innocent, which is much rarer, but still charming. Be warned: Top Gun was considered very cool, and Tom Cruise very charming, in their time. Shirley Temple, mainly because of the time period her movies were made in, is still charming. A Christmas Story is very, very charming. Reese Witherspoon's work in Election? Oozes charm. Roy Orbison? Cool and charming, despite looking like a grandmother.

The same applies to MMORPGs. Seriously. Some games are trying to be way too cool, and should just relax a bit. Be fun. I recently discovered one of the most charming games yet in Zentia.

Continue reading Free for All: Charmed, Zentia, I'm sure

MassivelyFree for All: Charmed, Zentia, I'm sure originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash-shopchang-youChangyoucharmingclosed-betaclosed-beta-keyclosed-beta-key-giveawaycustomizationdesignEQ2EverQuest-2f2pfeaturedfree-realmsfree-to-playftpgameplaypixel-softsusan-reveltvanguardvirtual-goodszentiazentia-mmoWed, 28 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get yourself a Zentia closed beta key, and take part in epic shrimp versus crab battles]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/get-yourself-a-zentia-closed-beta-key-and-take-part-in-epic-shr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/get-yourself-a-zentia-closed-beta-key-and-take-part-in-epic-shr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/get-yourself-a-zentia-closed-beta-key-and-take-part-in-epic-shr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If fairy tales are your thing and you don't mind some Chinese mythology, then ChangYou has a game to share with you. It's called Zentia, and it is the company's newest offering to the North American region.

Even better, it's going into closed beta on July 15th at 4 PM PT (7 PM ET) and we here at Massively have scored 5,000 beta keys for the game. Don't worry about rushing; there will be enough for everyone!

But, if you're interested in learning more about the game and see a trailer of the gameplay, or just want to grab yourself a key, then head on over past the break for everything you need to know!

Continue reading Get yourself a Zentia closed beta key, and take part in epic shrimp versus crab battles

MassivelyGet yourself a Zentia closed beta key, and take part in epic shrimp versus crab battles originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacbtchang-youchangyouclosed-betaclosed-beta-keyclosed-beta-key-giveawayf2pfree-to-playkidsvideozentiazentia-mmoTue, 13 Jul 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's your E3 highlight?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/the-daily-grind-whats-your-e3-highlight/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Whew! This past week has been a rollercoaster of craziness, a carousel of attractions and a mirror maze of sights from E3. We certainly hope you've enjoyed the coverage here at Massively, from interviews to exclusive peeks to mind-snapping trailers.

As we all continue to sift through the mountains of E3 information, we'd love to know what you consider to be the expo's highlight, your own personal "Best of Show" award. Was it the brand-new trailer of the previously hidden Warhammer 40k: Dark Millennium Online? The exceedingly awesome new SWTOR cinematic? The in-depth look into DC Universe Online? Or perhaps you're a Marvel fanboy and Super Hero Squad Online's gotten you revved up? Could it be the exciting conversations with Final Fantasy XIV's devs? The Agency's PvP side or LotRO's brand-new zone? Or perhaps you found yourself charmed by one of the smaller titles, such as Forsaken World, Taikodom, Swordsman Online, Battlestar Galactica Online and Zentia?

If you were asked -- and hey, we're asking you! -- what's your E3 highlight? Who gets the blue ribbon and who ends up empty-handed?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's your E3 highlight? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlineblue-ribboncinematicdark-millennium-onlinedc-universe-onlinedcuoe3e3-2010e3-highlightsfinal-fantasy-xivforsaken-worldlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionstar-wars-the-old-republicsuper-hero-squad-onlineswordsman-onlinetaikodomtdgterathe-agencythe-daily-grindtortrailerWarhammer-40KzentiaFri, 18 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E3 2010: Zentia preview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-zentia-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-zentia-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/e3-2010-zentia-preview/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ChangYou's Zentia is -- you guessed it -- another free-to-play title coming from Asia. So what makes it stand out from the rest? We talked to the game's senior producer, Susan Revelt at E3 and she tells us it's the game's story that makes it shine. And we admit, Zentia does start with a rather unique premise: You enter the game as one of 22 (former) immortals who have been banished from the immortal realms and tasked with ridding the world of demons before they can return. It's ChangYou's take on telling a fairy tale... with a humorous twist. (Revelt tells us they're aiming for a Princess Bride or Labyrinth feel with the story and the humor.) Whether this has given them what they need to succeed in the crowded free to play market is still up in the air. Though we've seen footage of the game, we haven't had a chance to test drive it ourselves and the closed beta won't begin until early July, with a planned release towards the end of August.

Let's start by talking about the basics of the game...

Gallery: E3 2010: Zentia

Continue reading E3 2010: Zentia preview

MassivelyE3 2010: Zentia preview originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changyouchangyou.come3e3-10e3-2010featuredheavenly-testzentiazentia-mmoThu, 17 Jun 2010 13:30:00 EST