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[Storybricks alpha video shows how you can choose your own adventure]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/storybricks-alpha-video-shows-how-you-can-choose-your-own-advent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/storybricks-alpha-video-shows-how-you-can-choose-your-own-advent/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/08/storybricks-alpha-video-shows-how-you-can-choose-your-own-advent/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Storybricks
Ever since the Storybricks toolset was announced, a common question people have had is, "That sounds great, but how easy will it be to actually make my own MMO world? Will I need to be a master programmer or something?" The answer is, apparently, quite easy. The Storybricks devs took a few minutes to put together an alpha gameplay video showing how simple it is to set up complex social interactions between characters.

As players piece together the "bricks" that dictate a character's mood, actions, and responses to the player, every encounter in the game turns into a "choose your own adventure" that has a variety of outcomes.

One of the situations that was shown is that of a player encountering an irritated wizard. In the first attempt to interact with him, the player pesters the wizard, which prompts the wizard to unleash a zombie. If the player apologizes, the wizard is astonished, unsummons the zombie, and asks to be the player's friend. But in a second attempt, the player chooses to zap the zombie instead and then punch the guard that comes to investigate. This outcome leads to banishment from the city.

Storybricks is currently seeking funding via Kickstarter. It's certainly a promising system fraught with possibilities, so give it a look-see after the jump!

Continue reading Storybricks alpha video shows how you can choose your own adventure

MassivelyStorybricks alpha video shows how you can choose your own adventure originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphaalpha-gameplayalpha-videobetabrickschoose-your-own-adventuredemofantasynamastenamaste-entertainmentstorybricksvideowizardzombieTue, 08 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: Blacklight: Retribution open beta impressions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/the-firing-line-blacklight-retribution-open-beta-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/the-firing-line-blacklight-retribution-open-beta-impressions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/the-firing-line-blacklight-retribution-open-beta-impressions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

The Firing Line: Blacklight: Retribution beta impressions
So I spent a little time with Perfect World Entertainment's new multiplayer shooter this week.

Buh-what?

Yeah, it is strange to think that the company responsible for Rusty Hearts, Ether Saga Odyssey, and about 20 million other free-to-play MMOs has finally jumped onto the FPS bandwagon. While PWE is publishing Blacklight: Retribution, though, design and development of the spiffy sci-fi action title comes courtesy of Zombie Studios.

Continue reading The Firing Line: Blacklight: Retribution open beta impressions

MassivelyThe Firing Line: Blacklight: Retribution open beta impressions originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blacklightblacklight-retributionf2pfeaturedfiring-linefree-to-playhardsuitonline-shooteropinionperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentsci-fiscience-factshooterthe-firing-linevideoweapon-depotzombiezombie-studiosFri, 02 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs answers questions about Class3's open world]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/undead-labs-answers-questions-about-class3s-open-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/undead-labs-answers-questions-about-class3s-open-world/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/12/undead-labs-answers-questions-about-class3s-open-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Zombie piloting has a negative effect on airline safety.
Undead Labs has been putting out a steady stream of information for potential players of Class3, the company's upcoming single-player prelude to the massively multiplayer Class4. The last major update in January showed some previews of the game under development, something that prompted a great deal of discussion about how the game will play. As a result, this month's session of questions and answers focuses on player speculation and the game's open-world environment.

According to this set of answers, players will be able to explore the game through a variety of means, including taking shelter inside the houses across the landscape, jumping over fences, and making careful use of vehicles found through the world. There's also discussion about making use of the environment as a weapon via ragdoll physics plus a tantalizing hint that more information will be forthcoming about the game in the spring. Fans of the upcoming zombie apocalypse will want to take a look at the full set of answers, which will hopefully serve as a precursor to an epic MMO in the same vein.

MassivelyUndead Labs answers questions about Class3's open world originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class3class4game-mechanicsmechanicsopen-worldpreviewsq-and-aquestions-and-answersundead-labsupcoming-titleszombiezombie-survivalzombiesSun, 12 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Competitive tournaments and bluescreen grenades]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/not-so-massively-competitive-tournaments-and-bluescreen-grenade/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/not-so-massively-competitive-tournaments-and-bluescreen-grenade/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/not-so-massively-competitive-tournaments-and-bluescreen-grenade/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
It's been a quiet week in the land of MOBAs, with preparations underway for DreamHack Winter 2011 in Sweden later this month. Bloodline Champions will be running its $10,000 US Alienware tournament, and Dota 2 joins in with the $15,000 Corsair Vengeance tournament. Heroes of Newerth is due to host the conclusion of its $30,000 MSI Beat It tournament at DreamHack, and signups begin tomorrow for the $3,000 Kingston HoNor challenge.

League of Legends' second competitive season approaches, and with it comes a series of summoner spell changes designed to encourage a more aggressive playstyle. Unused summoner names from season one were deleted as part of a database cleanup, opening 460,000 old names for registration. Firefall celebrates Halloween this week with a pumpkin-carving community roundup special featuring a giant carved pumpkin made in Minecraft. As Blacklight: Retribution continues its closed beta, developers discuss the game's high-technology battlefield and introduce a grenade that makes your opponents bluescreen.

Read on for this week's top news stories from popular MOBAs and other online games that aren't quite MMOs.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Competitive tournaments and bluescreen grenades

MassivelyNot So Massively: Competitive tournaments and bluescreen grenades originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blacklightblacklight-retributionbloodlinebloodline-championscompetitive-gamingdota-2dramhackdreamhack-2011dreamhack-wintereventsfeaturedfirefallfpsheroes-of-newerthleague-of-legendsmobanewsred-5-studiosriot-gamess2-gamesseason-2season-twospellsstunlock-studiossummonertournamentvalvevideozombiezombie-studiosMon, 07 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: BlizzCon, beta keys, and game trailers]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/not-so-massively-blizzcon-beta-keys-and-game-trailers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/not-so-massively-blizzcon-beta-keys-and-game-trailers/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/24/not-so-massively-blizzcon-beta-keys-and-game-trailers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Monday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals, Bloodline Champions and more.

It's BlizzCon week, and that means a whole torrent of information has been released on Blizzard's upcoming action RPG Diablo III. Blizzard also showed off its official StarCraft mod Blizzard DOTA, which has the potential to be a fully fledged MOBA with characters from every Blizzard game. Heroes of Newerth's developer S2 Games threw together a series of developer-vs.-player matches this week and got thoroughly smashed to bits.

Online FPS Hedone has started its U.S. closed beta, and we have 2,000 beta keys to give away. Readers who managed to get their hands on a Realm of the Titans beta key from our key giveaway during the first beta test will be glad to know the second beta stage will be starting soon and that their old login details will work. Rise of Immortals fans received a new immortal spotlight video on Balak this week, while Blacklight: Retribution developers released the game's second developer diary.

Skip past the cut for details of this week's biggest news from the world of MOBAs and other online games that aren't quite MMO

Continue reading Not So Massively: BlizzCon, beta keys, and game trailers

MassivelyNot So Massively: BlizzCon, beta keys, and game trailers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardbalakbetabeta-keybeta-key-giveawayblacklight-retributionblizzardblizzard-dotaBlizzard-Entertainmentblizzconblizzcon-2011diablodiablo-3diablo-3-betadiablo-iidiablo-IIIdiablo-III-betadotafeaturedgiveawaygolden-joystickgolden-joystick-awardshedoneheroes-of-newerthhonimmortal-spotlightleague-of-legendslolnewsnot-so-massivelypetroglyphriot-gamesrise-of-immortalss2-gamestrailertrailersvideozombiezombie-studiosMon, 24 Oct 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs moving right along with Class3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/undead-labs-moving-right-along-with-class3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/undead-labs-moving-right-along-with-class3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/03/undead-labs-moving-right-along-with-class3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Class3 - street corner with zombies or something, who knows
The end of September marked a graduation of sorts for members of the Undead Labs development team. The company's untitled maiden voyage has officially crossed the threshold from pre-production to in production, and a blog post on the firm's web site celebrates the milestone with something of a rah-rah speech from founder Jeff Strain.

"I'm blown away by how far we've come in such a short amount of time. Our task now as we move headlong into the production phase is to take this fun little gem and turn it into something we're proud to show the world," Strain wrote.

The gem he's referring to is currently known only by its Class3 codename. We do know that it's about zombies and that it's only for consoles. Aside from that, the title is shrouded in a fair bit of mystery. Strain's post also features a time-lapse video that shows off the game's CryEngine 3-powered time-of-day effects, and you can check that out after the cut.

Continue reading Undead Labs moving right along with Class3

MassivelyUndead Labs moving right along with Class3 originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-3class3consoleconsole-mmoconsolescryengine-3cryengine3horrorjeff-strainpre-productionproductionrah-rahundead-labsvideozombieMon, 03 Oct 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Dominion launch edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/not-so-massively-dominion-launch-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/not-so-massively-dominion-launch-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/not-so-massively-dominion-launch-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Monday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals, Bloodline Champions and more.

League of Legends officially launched its new capture-point Dominion game mode today, following a short and successful beta and bringing fresh gameplay to a genre still largely dominated by standard DotA mechanics. And this week Heroes of Newerth released hilarious new tank hero Cthulhuphant, a highly mobile jungler with the ability to use enemy creeps as stunning projectiles.

Diablo III has never really had a firm release date, but developers at Blizzard have been aiming for a 2011 release. This week we learned that release has been pushed back to a rough window of early 2012. Bloodline Champions also revealed details of a new avatar design contest this week, and Blacklight: Retribution released the first in a new series of dev diaries.

Skip past the cut for details of this week's biggest news from the world of MOBAs and other online games that aren't quite MMOs.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Dominion launch edition

MassivelyNot So Massively: Dominion launch edition originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablacklight-retributionblizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentcthulhucthulhuphantdiablodiablo-3diablo-iiidiablo-iii-betafeaturedheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendsleague-of-legends-dominionlolnewsnot-so-massivelyperfect-world-entertainmentpetroglyphriot-gamess2-gamesstunlock-studiosvideozombieMon, 26 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs learns the psychology of the apocalypse at Burning Man]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/undead-labs-learns-the-psychology-of-the-apocalypse-at-burning-m/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/undead-labs-learns-the-psychology-of-the-apocalypse-at-burning-m/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/undead-labs-learns-the-psychology-of-the-apocalypse-at-burning-m/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Burning Man horse art
In a recent dev diary, Undead Labs' Gronk gives us a first-hand perspective on a trip he made to the Nevada desert for Burning Man. Why is a vacation travel log news for MMO fans? Well, mostly because the experience was written up with post-apocalyptic survival in mind -- a topic that Undead Labs will be tackling in its upcoming zombie MMO.

"At Burning Man, real-world currency is largely useless... much like it would be after a societal collapse," Gronk writes. "Would you want to trade the food you need to survive for some green paper? I sure wouldn't."

Reading a personal experience like this leads us to believe that the Undead Labs zombie MMO will have a heart -- a rotting, putrid, maggot-infested heart -- but still, a heart.

[Photo Credit: Wacky Archives]

MassivelyUndead Labs learns the psychology of the apocalypse at Burning Man originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermathburning-mangronkpost-apocalypticsurveyundead-labszombiezombiesMon, 12 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: PAX trailers edition]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/not-so-massively-pax-trailers-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/not-so-massively-pax-trailers-edition/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/not-so-massively-pax-trailers-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Monday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals, Bloodline Champions and more.

It's PAX week, and that means there are plenty of new game trailers to show off. In this week's Not So Massively, we check out the latest Firefall and Blacklight: Retribution trailers and hear about Bloodline Champions' impending release in Russia. Riot Games revealed new details on its upcoming Dominion game mode this week and announced that over 2.4 million League of Legends fans tuned in to last week's Gamescom livestream to check out the tournament and Dominion preview. League of Legends released its new melee assassin champion Talon this week, while Heroes of Newerth finally released Geomancer, the winner of last year's intelligence hero design contest.

Skip past the cut for details of this week's biggest news from the world of MOBAs and other online games that aren't quite MMOs.

Continue reading Not So Massively: PAX trailers edition

MassivelyNot So Massively: PAX trailers edition originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blacklightblacklight-retributionbloodline-championsfeaturedfuncomgeomancerheroes-of-newerthhonleague-of-legendsleague-of-legends-dominionlolnewsnot-so-massivelynyan-catpaxpax-2011riot-gamesrussias2-gamesstunlock-studiostalontrailertrailersvideozombieMon, 29 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Not So Massively: Diablo III's Inferno mode and million-dollar tournaments]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-inferno-mode-and-million-dollar-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-inferno-mode-and-million-dollar-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/22/not-so-massively-diablo-iiis-inferno-mode-and-million-dollar-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Not So Massively title image
Welcome to Not So Massively, our weekly roundup of the top news from popular multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs) and other multiplayer online games that aren't quite MMOs. Published every Monday, the column covers games such as League of Legends, Heroes of Newerth, Rise of Immortals, Bloodline Champions and more.

It's been a huge week for online gaming, with DotA 2 being shown for the first time at Gamescom and new details being released on Diablo III. In this week's Not So Massively, we give out beta keys for upcoming online action game Brawl Busters and reintroduce MMO-esque online FPS Blacklight: Retribution. Heroes of Newerth makes some controversial changes this week with patch 2.1.5, putting a free courier in every game and reorganising items in the shop.

The biggest news came out of Gamescom this week was the conclusion of Valve's massive $1.6 million US DotA 2 tournament The International. League of Legends retaliated with the announcement of a $5 million US total prize fund for competitive tournaments in season two. Blizzard also attended Gamescom to reveal new details of Diablo III's difficulty settings, which will include a brand-new Inferno endgame mode designed to challenge even the best players.

Skip past the cut for details of this week's biggest news from the world of MOBAs and other online games.

Continue reading Not So Massively: Diablo III's Inferno mode and million-dollar tournaments

MassivelyNot So Massively: Diablo III's Inferno mode and million-dollar tournaments originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blacklightblacklight-retributionblacklight-tango-downblizzardcompetitive-gamingdiablo-iiidota-2EHOMEfeaturedgamescom-2011godshellheroes-of-newerthhi-rez-studioshoninfernoinferno-modeleague-of-legendslolmillion-dollarsNavinewspaxperfect-world-entertainmentpvppweriot-gamesRockHippo-productionss2-gamessmitethe-internationaltournamenttournamentstrailervalvevideoZombieMon, 22 Aug 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs brings Class3 to (un)life with CryENGINE 3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/undead-labs-brings-class3-to-un-life-with-cryengine-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/undead-labs-brings-class3-to-un-life-with-cryengine-3/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/undead-labs-brings-class3-to-un-life-with-cryengine-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Following last week's dev diary featuring Undead Labs' art director Doug Williams and his talk on the "heart of horror," the most recent dev diary from the studio shifts in a more technical direction. In particular, executive producer Jeff Strain focuses on the game's engine. Even more particularly, he announces that the tentatively named Class3 will be running on the powerful CryENGINE 3.

Of course, the devs over at Undead Labs are quite familiar with the traditions of the internet and anticipate shouts of "pics or it didn't happen" with a lovely screenshot from an early version of the game. But wait, there's more! Call now and you'll receive not just a single screenshot, but an entire video! Just click past the break and check out an early version of Undead Labs' Class3 in action, then skip on over to the dev blog to read the full entry.

Continue reading Undead Labs brings Class3 to (un)life with CryENGINE 3

MassivelyUndead Labs brings Class3 to (un)life with CryENGINE 3 originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class3consolecryenginecryengine-3cryengine3engineenginesjeff-strainundead-labsvideovideosxbox-360xbox-live-arcadezombiezombiesFri, 19 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New interview with Undead Labs' Jeff Strain covers technology and fun]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/new-interview-with-undead-labs-jeff-strain-covers-technology-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/new-interview-with-undead-labs-jeff-strain-covers-technology-an/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/new-interview-with-undead-labs-jeff-strain-covers-technology-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Console MMO fans, rejoice. We have a new interview with Undead Labs' Jeff Strain on the studio's upcoming Xbox 360 titles. The two titles, code-named Class3 and Class4, are an Xbox Live Arcade title (which will allow the studio to test their technology and give players a taste of what's to come) and an open-world MMORPG, respectively.

Throughout the interview, Strain touches on a few important subjects, such as Class3 and how it is helping the team develop and prepare for Class4. He also mentions that the team's concern with Class4 is not with the fact that it's a server-hosted online world, but ensuring that said server-hosted online world is fun to play. Although it's a somewhat short interview, it's certainly worth the read for any zombie fan anticipating Undead Labs' upcoming titles.

MassivelyNew interview with Undead Labs' Jeff Strain covers technology and fun originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-3class-4class3class4consolefast-zombies-are-better-than-slow-zombiesinterviewjeff-straintechnologyundead-labsxboxxbox-360zombiezombiesThu, 21 Jul 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Realms Online celebrates the 4th of July in style with zombies and unicorns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/realms-online-celebrates-the-4th-of-july-in-style-with-zombies-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/realms-online-celebrates-the-4th-of-july-in-style-with-zombies-a/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/01/realms-online-celebrates-the-4th-of-july-in-style-with-zombies-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The British are coming! The British are coming! And they want to... eat your brains?

In perhaps the oddest holiday event we've ever heard of, Realms Online is featuring a Redcoat zombie invasion that starts today. Redcoat zombies are swarming over the warzone, and it's up to you to fight for independence from brain-noshing. Participating in the event will give players the chance to earn special Independence Day costumes until July 15th.

Zombie invasions aren't the only things going on during the Dawn of Freedom event -- GMs will be throwing firework shows, banners will be playing the American national anthem, and other fun activities will be available. Realms Online is also selling 4th of July-themed items in its item shop for those with particularly strong patriotic persuasions.

And what 4th of July event would be complete without... unicorns? Unicorns? OK, we'll roll with that. GameSamba is going to post a code on the Realms Online Facebook page that will let players use a unicorn for free for a week before it goes on sale in the store.

MassivelyRealms Online celebrates the 4th of July in style with zombies and unicorns originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4th-of-julyamerican-anthemcash-shopcash-storecostumecostumesdawn-of-freedomeventf2pfireworksfree-to-playgamesambain-game-eventindependence-dayitem-shopitem-storerealms-onlineunicornunicornswhy-not-zombie-unicornszombiezombie-invasionzombie-redcoatszombiesFri, 01 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Faxion Online commercial gets to the heart of conflict]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/faxion-online-commercial-gets-to-the-heart-of-conflict/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/faxion-online-commercial-gets-to-the-heart-of-conflict/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/20/faxion-online-commercial-gets-to-the-heart-of-conflict/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"We know conflict," a new ad for Faxion Online says, and boy do they ever! The tongue-in-cheek spot shows a fictional (or is it?) day at UTV True Games, where a frisky pirate and an arrogant ninja happen to walk into the same elevator. What happens next can only be seen, not described, although we would not blame you for weeping out of awe.

The commercial highlights the spirit of PvP that lies at the core of Faxion Online, an upcoming MMO that pits angelic players vs. their demonic counterparts. The same sense of humor that comes through in this ad runs rampant throughout the game, as players war over zones themed after the seven deadly sins.

Currently, Faxion is in open beta. You can watch the full carnage of this video after the jump.

Continue reading Faxion Online commercial gets to the heart of conflict

MassivelyFaxion Online commercial gets to the heart of conflict originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angelscomedycommercialconflictdemonsfaxionfaxion-onlinehumormy-money-is-on-the-pirateninjaninjaspiratepiratespvputvutv-ignitionutv-ignition-gamesutv-true-gamesvideozombiezombiesWed, 20 Apr 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[It's Friday I'm in lab: Undead Labs opens its doors to you]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/its-friday-im-in-lab-undead-labs-open-their-doors-to-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/its-friday-im-in-lab-undead-labs-open-their-doors-to-you/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/16/its-friday-im-in-lab-undead-labs-open-their-doors-to-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

"Monday the world can fall apart / Tuesday, Wednesday they eat my heart / Oh, Thursday my chainsaw doesn't start / It's Friday I'm in lab."

We're reminded of the immortal words of The Cure as we watch this neat behind-the-scenes glimpse into the inner workings of Undead Labs. Ever wonder what it might be like to actually go to work and spend your whole day creating a post-apocalyptic zombie world? And get paid for it? Watch these devs and feel the bitter sting of envy at the back of your neck.

While the video doesn't go into depth about Undead Labs' as-yet unnamed MMO or the XBLA game the studio is developing, it does offer tantalizing sights such as sheets of concept art, in-game building models, and even a brief bit of man-vs-zombie mayhem. And there are few things more surreal than witnessing a room full of businessmen and women seriously discussing zombie behaviors.

You can watch the full video after the jump!

Continue reading It's Friday I'm in lab: Undead Labs opens its doors to you

MassivelyIt's Friday I'm in lab: Undead Labs opens its doors to you originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 16 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-scenesfriday-im-in-lovejeff-strainthe-cureundeadundead-labsvideoxblaxbox-live-arcadezombiezombie-apocalypsezombie-behaviorzombie-mmoSat, 16 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brainsss and brawn: Zombie apocalypse hitting Champions Online today]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/brainsss-and-brawn-zombie-apocalypse-hitting-champions-online-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/brainsss-and-brawn-zombie-apocalypse-hitting-champions-online-t/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/brainsss-and-brawn-zombie-apocalypse-hitting-champions-online-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Is there a zombie on your lawn? Are you out of happy plants to fight them? No worries, mere citizen! Champions Online's cadre of super-wonders is rushing to protect your home and brains from unwanted undead intrusion!

Cryptic announced that it is bringing back the Zombie Apocalypse event today in Champions Online for a couple of hours. Level 40 players are welcome to fight off the horde from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. EDT and again from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. The GM running the event will be in Millennium City beforehand to help answer any questions.

During the event, superheroes are challenged with warding off wave after wave of hungry zombies. The twist is that those who fall in battle respawn as zombies themselves and end up fighting against their former compatriots. Hopefully there will be no hard feelings when your best friend is trying to gnaw on your skull!

MassivelyBrainsss and brawn: Zombie apocalypse hitting Champions Online today originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-moonchampionschampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-studioseventgm-eventin-game-eventsuperheroes-vs-zombiestheres-a-zombie-on-my-lawnzombiezombie-apocalypsezombiesTue, 12 Apr 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Despair not: Frogster promotes RoM Chapter IV closed beta contest]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/27/despair-not-frogster-promotes-rom-chapter-iv-closed-beta-contes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/27/despair-not-frogster-promotes-rom-chapter-iv-closed-beta-contes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/27/despair-not-frogster-promotes-rom-chapter-iv-closed-beta-contes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Did you watch Runes of Magic's Chapter IV trailer and instantly start glaring at the calendar that patch day hasn't arrived yet? While we can't make Chapter IV: Lands of Despair arrive any sooner, we can point you to a special contest that may get you a sneak peek at the all of zombie goodness a few weeks early!

Frogster is granting closed beta spots to players who can convince the studio that they deserve to be on the front lines of cutting-edge new content. It's fairly simple, too: Just write three sentences as to why you deserve to be part of this beta and email them in to rombeta@frogster-america.com.

Runes of Magic's Chapter IV update will be in closed beta from April 6th through April 29th and will have no NDA attached. As you wait to see whether you won the contest or not, why not check out Massively's preview of Lands of Despair? Your eyes will thank you later.

Gallery: Runes of Magic Chapter IV

MassivelyDespair not: Frogster promotes RoM Chapter IV closed beta contest originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 27 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betachapter-4chapter-ivclosed-betacontestfrogsterfrogster-interactivelands-of-despairndapromotionrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmentsneak-peekzombieSun, 27 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2011: Joymax weighs Karma]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/06/gdc-2011-joymax-weighs-karma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/06/gdc-2011-joymax-weighs-karma/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/06/gdc-2011-joymax-weighs-karma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Imagine a world where World War II -- also known as "That War With All Them Movies" -- never ended. Imagine that while the conflict raged, weapons development continued to advance well into the 1950s. Now imagine that this war-ravaged landscape is your new virtual playground.

Joymax, the studio behind Silkroad Online, revealed at GDC that its next MMO will take place in such a world. Code-named Karma Online, this massively multiplayer online first-person shooter will attempt to provide the ultimate PvP battleground for players sick of bows and arrows and futuristic plasma rifles.

Karma Online seeks to meld the best of both RPGs and FPSs by introducing a skill tree system that allows soldiers to specialize in preferred weapons and tactics. Although we're not quite sure what Joymax means by this, the studio promises more immersion by requiring the use of both hands for combat instead of just the mouse. The game will also come with the popular Call of Duty-style zombie mode if you want to switch up player-killing for undead slaughter.

The shooter is scheduled to go into closed beta this May. Hit the jump to see Karma Online in action and get the skinny on Joymax and WeMade Entertainment's other projects-in-progress!

Gallery: Karma Online

Continue reading GDC 2011: Joymax weighs Karma

MassivelyGDC 2011: Joymax weighs Karma originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-dutychangchun-onlinechangchun2cryenginedigimondigimon-masters-onlinefeaturedgalleriesgallerygame-developers-conferencegdcgdc-2011iosjoymaxkarmakarma-onlinemaster-of-defensemmofpsnedned-the-new-era-of-fantasypetzproject-goblinsilkroad-onlinetrailervideowemadewemade-entertainmentworld-war-iiwwiizombieSun, 06 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC 2011: Jeff Strain lets us eat... err... pick his brains on Undead Labs' upcoming zombie MMO]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/gdc-2011-jeff-strain-lets-us-eat-err-pick-his-brains-on-u/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/gdc-2011-jeff-strain-lets-us-eat-err-pick-his-brains-on-u/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/03/03/gdc-2011-jeff-strain-lets-us-eat-err-pick-his-brains-on-u/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The team at Undead Labs has big plans for the studio's first two projects currently under development: Class 3 and Class 4. So far, we know that Class 3 will be a non-MMO console zombie shoot-em-up game developed for Xbox Live, and Class 4 is intended to be the game that crosses into a massively online world. That's why we were glad to sit down with Jeff Strain, founder of Undead Labs, to hear more details on the studio's gory game goodness, which is surely lurking and primed to pounce on us and eat our brains -- or at least some of our gaming time.

Are you hungry for all the meaty details of this ambitious console horror game? Join us behind the break for more!

Continue reading GDC 2011: Jeff Strain lets us eat... err... pick his brains on Undead Labs' upcoming zombie MMO

MassivelyGDC 2011: Jeff Strain lets us eat... err... pick his brains on Undead Labs' upcoming zombie MMO originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brainsclass-3class-4consolefeaturedgame-developers-conferencegdcgdc-2011interviewinterviewsjeff-strainundead-labszombiezomgThu, 03 Mar 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs reveals first release title, and it's not the zombie MMO [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/undead-labs-reveals-first-release-title-and-its-not-the-zombie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/undead-labs-reveals-first-release-title-and-its-not-the-zombie/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/undead-labs-reveals-first-release-title-and-its-not-the-zombie/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Back in November 2009, ArenaNet co-founder Jeff Strain left the company to create a new development studio named Undead Labs. His plans included the development of a zombie-survival console MMO, an idea that has had fans of zombie apocalypse games excited ever since. In August 2010, Undead Labs graced the news once again when four more of ArenaNet's developers left to join the new studio and work on the upcoming zombie MMO. It wasn't long until we began to see the first details released of the impending zombie apocalypse, with a huge section in EGM Magazine. Most notable was the revelation that the game would be a console-only open-world sandbox.

Undead Labs unveiled its first officially planned release title today, and fans of the upcoming zombie MMO won't be disappointed. While the company's first release won't be the zombie MMO we all want so badly, the studio plans to first release a smaller-scale online zombie survival game on XBox Live Arcade. This game, code-named "Class 3" for now, will showcase the gameplay, setting and technology that will be used to develop the as-yet untitled zombie MMO. The team at Undead Labs plans to then use the game as a kind of training ground to help develop better gameplay experiences for the MMO that will follow. Although that means we'll have to wait a while to get our hands on that zombie-survival sandbox world we've all been dreaming of, the result should be a game that appeals more to players.

Jeff Strain, founder of Undead Labs, released the following statement: "Our mission is to create original online games that truly feel at home on the console platform, and Xbox 360 is a fantastic platform for online console gaming. We plan to create an ambitious open world XBLA game and use its gameplay, setting, and technology as the foundation for a full online world game."

[Update: Jeff Strain's also released a tongue-in-cheek "Rude Q&A" on Undead Labs' blog. It discusses the team's plans and goals for the new game as well as aims to stave off any misconceptions about both upcoming titles.]

MassivelyUndead Labs reveals first release title, and it's not the zombie MMO [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsole-mmohorrorjeff-strainopen-worldsandboxundeadundead-labsxblaxboxXbox-360Xbox-Live-Arcadezombiezombie-mmoThu, 03 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UnDead Online coming for your braaaaaaaains]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/undead-online-coming-for-your-braaaaaaaains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/undead-online-coming-for-your-braaaaaaaains/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/undead-online-coming-for-your-braaaaaaaains/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

When it comes to zombies and gun-toting fun with friends, most people would probably immediately think of Left 4 Dead or perhaps Red Dead Redemption's Undead Nightmare DLC. When it comes to MMOs, though, you've got limited choices for horror -- and many of them aren't even out yet! Today you have one more title to add to your listing of horror MMO games that are shambling toward you at some point in the future: UnDead Online.

This brain-splattered game is being developed by indie studio JumpCore Productions. The studio was formed in 2007 by Cameron Petty, who was part of the founding team behind Cryptic Studios. According to JumpCore, UnDead Online will be an episodic MMOFPS hybrid that will have its first showing at the upcoming Games Developer Conference in March. A statement released by Petty explains further; "Each episode of the FPS game series will tell the story of a character that exemplifies one of the character classes in the MMO game. The player will experience that character's journey from his or her previous existence into the post-Apocalyptic world brought to life in the UnDead Online MMO, while exploring the unique game play aspects of that character's class along the way."

Ultimately, we're glad to see another horror title planned for the MMO genre, and we will certainly be expectantly waiting to chew on the developers' brains about what we can look forward to in their game. In the meantime, the UnDead Online site and forums are awaiting the presence of any interested zombie hunters.

MassivelyUnDead Online coming for your braaaaaaaains originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameron-pettyEpisodicepisodic-contentj-cameron-pettyjumpcorejumpcore-productionsmmofpsundead-onlinezombiezombiesTue, 25 Jan 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs talks about surviving the zombie social scene]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/undead-labs-talks-about-surviving-the-zombie-social-scene/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/undead-labs-talks-about-surviving-the-zombie-social-scene/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/undead-labs-talks-about-surviving-the-zombie-social-scene/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

James Phinney believes in the power of a persistent virtual world, and he's not shy in sharing his excitement when it comes to the landscape that Undead Labs is building for its new zombie-themed MMO:

"We believe a persistent world should be living, dynamic, and evolving. We believe your decisions should affect the state of the world and the state of the world should matter to you. We believe you should get to be the hero; not because you were able grind your way to some artificial achievement that everyone else will eventually grind for too, but instead because you achieved something unique and heroic -- something that people actually care about because it has an impact on the world."

In this post on Undead Labs' site, Phinney talks about how the company isn't trying to build a shell of an MMO around a mere action game, but is actually working hard to build a connected, persistent place where players have meaningful choices that could lead them to being heroes. His vision for this post-apocalyptic world is one that is "living, dynamic, and evolving" instead of remaining static.

And while the MMO will contain zombies, Phinney stresses that the core is about survival, not just a headcount. He sketches out some of the choices that will need to be made, including finding power, scrounging for food and developing safe zones. You can read more about this vision over at Undead Labs.

MassivelyUndead Labs talks about surviving the zombie social scene originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynamicJames-Phinneypersistencepersistent-worldpost-apocalypticsurvivaltheres-a-zombie-on-my-lawnundead-labszombiezombie-apocalypseFri, 12 Nov 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs: Current MMOs are "barely even games"]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/undead-labs-current-mmos-are-barely-even-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/undead-labs-current-mmos-are-barely-even-games/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/undead-labs-current-mmos-are-barely-even-games/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Undead Labs has a new game designer, and he's come out swinging against the established MMO format. Richard Foge, who previously worked on God of War, SOCOM and Guild Wars, says he "loves the idea of MMOs" but isn't satisfied with the current market.

In a recent manifesto on Undead Labs' site, Foge professes his love for console games and his puzzlement as to why MMOs haven't advanced as far: "MMOs get breaks because of their social nature, but if you really look at them closely they're barely even games. Mario 64 (nearly 15-years-old at this point) feels better than any MMO I've ever played. MMOs aren't even close to keeping up with cutting edge videogames from a gameplay or presentation perspective." The solution, he thinks, is to skew more toward console action titles. "What if we replaced all the math with action?" he muses.

Undead Labs' first MMO, a zombie-themed romp through the post-apocalyptic world, is being made for consoles instead of PCs. The perfect platform for an action MMO, in his opinion, isn't the PC: "I believe that MMOs can and should compete with the best triple-A games. And I believe consoles are the perfect place for MMOs to make this stand."

MassivelyUndead Labs: Current MMOs are "barely even games" originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 03 Nov 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-basedgod-of-warguild-warsmario-64post-apocalypticrichard-fogesocomundead-labszombiezombie-apocalypseWed, 03 Nov 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Halloween MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/the-perfect-ten-halloween-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/the-perfect-ten-halloween-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/the-perfect-ten-halloween-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

We're only a few days away from Halloween, and already the Massively office staff is dressing up in anticipation. Shawn's post-apocalyptic gear is at odds with Rubi's tastefully modest Guild Wars Elementalist outfit. Greg's Squig is in the corner battling it out with Larry's Chewbacca. Bree is dudded up as a giant red corrective marker; Jef's free-to-play outfit requires microtransactions to view in full; and Kyrstalle is photographing it all with her Poloroid One-Shot camera. I think Eliot showed up in full plate armor and riding a mechanical bull, but that just may be his normal work attire.

So as everyone else is goofing off in the spirit of the holidays, it remains to me, your lovable intern, to hack out a top 10 list in honor of All Hallow's Eve. It's the least I can do since they're paying me in candy.

While every MMO incorporates horror at some point (even, yes, Hello Kitty Online's Cat-Tastrophie zone), and it's nearly impossible to escape a clutch of giant spiders in any game you visit, I've picked out 10 MMOs that best deliver a slice of October 31st. Some are old, some new, some canceled and some yet to come, but these are 10 of the spookiest MMOs in the world.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Halloween MMOs

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Halloween MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanccpchewbaccaddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaster-eggselementalistfallen-earthfeaturedflagship-studiosflagshippedfluffy-chickensfree-for-allguild-warshalloweenhalloween-2010halloween2010hellgate-londonhello-kitty-onlinehumorhyborialovecraftmansquitomicrotransactionsone-shotsonyx-chamberspersonal-record-best-for-number-of-tagspost-apocalypticrequiem-bloodymarerequiem-memento-morisquigstephen-kingsyfythe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthe-secret-worldtop-10top-10-listundead-labsvampire-the-masqueradewarWarhammer-Onlineworld-of-darknesswurm-onlinezombiezombie-mmoThu, 28 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Braaaaainssss: First details about Undead Labs' zombie MMO revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/braaaaainssss-first-details-about-undead-labs-zombie-mmo-revea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/braaaaainssss-first-details-about-undead-labs-zombie-mmo-revea/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/braaaaainssss-first-details-about-undead-labs-zombie-mmo-revea/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There's something about zombies and video games that bind geeks together in harmony, which is why we've been anxious to see what Jeff Strain's Undead Labs has in store for our favorite end-of-the-world scenario. Well drop your linen and start your grinnin', because Game By Night reports that EGM's latest physical issue (241.0) is chock-full of zombie goodness on the project.

The unnamed MMO is going to be console-only and will take place in today's world following a zombie apocalypse. Strain promises that the world will be dynamic and malleable -- think "sandbox" -- as players will build up defenses to protect settlements, lay down traps for the zombie horde and eventually take the fight to the undead. There may also be gardening (yup, you read that right).

A more dynamic world isn't the only cue from modern MMO development that Undead Labs is taking -- the game will skew more toward quick action-based fights than traditional MMO combat: "Banish the memories you have of the PC MMO paradigm for combat, and start thinking AAA console action game... weapons (like the M14 assault rifle or long-bladed machete) need to feel snap-fast and satisfying, to pierce bones and dismember limbs just so."

While the title is still in very early stages, EGM says that the team is looking to allow a more free-form character development, with players taking on specialty roles instead of being forced into rigid class constructs. You can read the full analysis over at Game By Night.

MassivelyBraaaaainssss: First details about Undead Labs' zombie MMO revealed originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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My Uncle Ben once told me that with great power comes great responsibility. He also was fond of saying that with Update 4 comes great zombie pirates, but we always just assumed he was a bit senile when he'd go on about that.

Apparently not, as Turbine just released the DDO patch notes for the imminent Update 4, and players of all levels look to be in for a treat. "Adventure steals in from the sea!" they promise, citing a new adventure pack entitled "Sentinels." This pack includes a series of zombie pirate adventures for players levels 6-8, as well as an epic difficulty version for level 20 powerhouses. At PAX East we got to experience this adventure up close and personal, and walked away impressed with the epic feel of the module.

Continue reading DDO releases zombified Update 4 patch notes

MassivelyDDO releases zombified Update 4 patch notes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinekoboldspatchpatch-notespiratessentinelsspider-manturbineuncle-benupdate-4zombiezombie-piratesMon, 05 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online Blood Moon launch trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/champions-online-blood-moon-launch-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/champions-online-blood-moon-launch-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/27/champions-online-blood-moon-launch-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With Blood Moon dropping tomorrow, it should be an exciting day for Champions Online players. Until then, however, you can watch this brand new trailer detailing all the new content available with the patch. We're pretty pleased with everything we saw, especially the level of zombies shuffling about, ready for players to pummel them into zombgoo. Also: Fighting undead reincarnates of classic Champions tabletop heroes and then descending into an evil portal to free their souls looks like a whole heap of fun.

We do have one beef with the content, and that's the location of the Zombie Apocalypse map: Canada. Has anyone over at Cryptic read World War Z? If they had, then it would've been obvious that setting a zombie map in the one place where the creature's lack of blood flow causes them to freeze over incredibly easily is a bad choice -- we're nitpicking here, though.

Check out the video after the break.

Continue reading Champions Online Blood Moon launch trailer

MassivelyChampions Online Blood Moon launch trailer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariblood-mooncanadachampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosmax-brooksworld-war-zzombgoozombiezombiesTue, 27 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dev blog sheds light on Champions' Zombie Apocalypse]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/dev-blog-sheds-light-on-champions-zombie-apocalypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/dev-blog-sheds-light-on-champions-zombie-apocalypse/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/dev-blog-sheds-light-on-champions-zombie-apocalypse/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

One of the coolest features coming with Champions Online's October 27th Blood Moon update is the addition of Zombie Apocalypse, a PvP map that features a scenario instead of the typical objective involving kill scores. Sound interesting to you? Then we highly recommend this developer blog discussing the entire process of creating the ruleset, as it awards a keen insight on the how and why of said rules.

There are two good things happening here: One is the obvious, that Cryptic is adding a new PvP map that's something more than the launch offerings. The other is that they're being communicative with a new piece of content's development process. This seems like a minor plus but in truth, when a developer demystifies the reasoning behind their content it only serves to elevate player perception and appreciation of said work. Our only suggestion would be to boost the presentation of these dev blogs (behind the scenes in-game pictures are always cool) in order to draw even more attention to them.

MassivelyDev blog sheds light on Champions' Zombie Apocalypse originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariblood-moonchampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosdev-blogdeveloper-blogpvpzombiezombie-apocalypsezombiesThu, 22 Oct 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Blood Moon info released, we spy new costume pieces]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/new-blood-moon-info-released-we-spy-new-costume-pieces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/new-blood-moon-info-released-we-spy-new-costume-pieces/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/13/new-blood-moon-info-released-we-spy-new-costume-pieces/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If you needed proof that October 27th was just a couple weeks away (aside from a calendar, of course) then look no further than this massive update to the Blood Moon page on the official Champions Online website. The page is filled with event-exclusive perks, rewards, item drops, screens and even a snazzy Takofanes wallpaper. The zombie Foxbat toy in particular will be a wonderful way of making all your friends jealous, assuming you can get it to drop.

Those new screens are actually pretty key here, because they reveal something about Blood Moon we didn't specifically know yet: the new costume pieces. Looking through the screens, we noticed player characters who're obviously using the new Celestial powers. However, some of them -- like the character above this post -- are sporting outfit pieces that we're wholly unfamiliar with from our time in the game.

Now, it could be that we haven't come across these angelically inspired outfits yet, but something tells us this just isn't the case. We're sure to hear something more official in the next week or so, but you heard it here first!

Gallery: Champions Online: Blood Moon

MassivelyNew Blood Moon info released, we spy new costume pieces originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariblood-mooncelestialchampionschampions-onlinecostumecrypticcryptic-studiosfoxbatoctoberzombiezombiesTue, 13 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Procedurally-generated MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/the-daily-grind-procedurally-generated-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/the-daily-grind-procedurally-generated-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/the-daily-grind-procedurally-generated-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


With the way MMOs keep changing and growing, there's some very exciting things on the horizon for players wanting something more than what's currently out there. For example, Eskil Steenberg is working on a unique procedurally-generated MMO - you could call it an art-house MMO - named Love. What we've seen of it has been utterly fascinating so far, and the fact that he's developing it solo ensures it will hopefully come out precisely as he wants it. Outside of that, a friend of mine named Jason tossed out a post this morning about another procedurally-generated engine - the CityEngine - that can generate enormous cities completely on the fly. As he mentioned, can you imagine using it to create a horror MMO where you can essentially wander for huge distances, in and out of buildings before you find another player? Completely open and playable building interiors? Zombies? In a sandbox? We'd be happy to just play there as a seriously spooky fragfest.

But before we get ahead of ourselves, we wanted to ask you - what do you think of the idea of procedurally-generated content? Do you think this is really the only logical choice in terms of building enormous open-ended sandbox MMO worlds for the future, or do you think the tightly designed and scripted worlds we have now are the only way to go? Can you see procedurally-generated games becoming a part of the mainstream, or is the tech too open ended for us? Are we ready to break free and tell our own stories?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Procedurally-generated MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cityengineeskil-steenberghorrorlovemmommorpgprocedurally-generatedzombieMon, 13 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Digital Continuum: Zombies, zombies, zombies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/14/the-digital-continuum-zombies-zombies-zombies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/14/the-digital-continuum-zombies-zombies-zombies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/14/the-digital-continuum-zombies-zombies-zombies/#commentsFiled under: , ,


I firmly believe persistent online games have a lot more to offer, and every so often that fact rises up to the front of my thoughts by games like Resident Evil 5. If a cooperative and ostensibly zombie game can exist, then why not a massively version? Let me present to you, the reader, my vision of a game that could quite feasibly exist in just four or five years time:

The zombie apocalypse MMO.

Continue reading The Digital Continuum: Zombies, zombies, zombies

MassivelyThe Digital Continuum: Zombies, zombies, zombies originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 14 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocalypsecapcomfeaturedfirst-person-shooterleft-4-deadresident-evil-5the-digital-continuumthird-person-shooterundeadvalvezombiezombiesSat, 14 Mar 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A critical look at WoW's zombie issues]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/a-critical-look-at-wows-zombie-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/a-critical-look-at-wows-zombie-issues/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/a-critical-look-at-wows-zombie-issues/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


In a move driven in part by frustration, Lume the Mad recently outlined his specific beefs with Blizzard's pre-Wrath zombie event for World of Warcraft. We've seen in the past that some people weren't enjoying the event whatsoever, but Lume has gone the distance and outlined exactly what's wrong and how massive frustration could have been avoided.

It's very unfortunate that greifers are ruining the event for everyone, but then again nobody should be surprised. Everyone should be familiar with John Gabriel's Greater Internet D*ckwad Theory by now. We're all for events that shake up player expectations but Lume makes a very strong point by point argument that's hard to argue with in any sort of rational way. Hopefully, Blizzard will learn from this experience and put in a few more safeguards next time around. That is unless they've simply become unscrupulous evil men and women, corrupted by nerd money and power.

MassivelyA critical look at WoW's zombie issues originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activision-blizzardblizzardlumelume-the-madwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwotlkwowwrathwrath-of-the-lich-kingzombiezombie-eventzombiesMon, 27 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Player reactions to WoW zombie plague are both positive and negative]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/25/player-reactions-to-wow-zombie-plague-are-both-positive-and-nega/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/25/player-reactions-to-wow-zombie-plague-are-both-positive-and-nega/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/10/25/player-reactions-to-wow-zombie-plague-are-both-positive-and-nega/#commentsFiled under: , ,


What do you do when a developer takes strides to do something dynamic and interesting in a typically static virtual world like World of Warcraft? Many people seem to be enjoying the rare chance to spread a zombiefying plague across lands both friend and foe. Others, however, are not happy at all. It seems as though in a world that's mostly static, many want it to stay that way.

1up.com took a look at player reactions on the official World of Warcraft forums and what they found was a slightly mixed response. While our guess is that this is a vocal minority, some players are calling this temporary event a contradiction to the very notion of PvE servers. While that may be true if this were a permanent change, it's an event, and with the launch of war upon Lich King Arthas, we'd like to think that some people would be a bit more accepting of a one-time-only experience like this one. Oh well, at least it looks like most are enjoying their brain-eating moments.

MassivelyPlayer reactions to WoW zombie plague are both positive and negative originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 25 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1upactivision-blizzardblizzardwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowzombiezombie-eventzombiesSat, 25 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zombie Apocalypse coming to City of Heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/zombie-apocalypse-coming-to-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/zombie-apocalypse-coming-to-city-of-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/01/zombie-apocalypse-coming-to-city-of-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Yesterday, the City of Heroes test server was host to a terrible event. In one city zone after another, both in Paragon and the Rogue Isles, the dead rose to devour the living. The skies turned blood red, and hordes of the undead clawed their way up from the ground in an apocalypse not seen since the days of the Rikti invasions. Like the Rikti, these horrors attacked anyone in an exposed space, and had no level tag, meaning any character could engage them.

The Zombie Apocalypse is coming to CoX in Halloween, where it will form part of the special event celebrations, along with the trick-or-treating that has taken place in previous years.Yesterday's trial run was a huge success, with players all over the city converging to hold back the undead. Even the signature hero Positron, along with NCsoft personnel Lighthouse and Niviene, pitched in to battle the hordes.

Continue reading Zombie Apocalypse coming to City of Heroes

MassivelyZombie Apocalypse coming to City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apocalypsecity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxhalloweenncsofttest-serverzombieFri, 01 Aug 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates of the Burning Sea's supernatural side]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/pirates-of-the-burning-seas-supernatural-side/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/pirates-of-the-burning-seas-supernatural-side/http://massively.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/pirates-of-the-burning-seas-supernatural-side/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Gamespot has added a preview of Pirates of the Burning Sea that is solely to do with the supernatural content found in the game, and makes us anticipate the game's release even more. Apparently, a significant portion of content (10-15%) will take place in an area known as the Bermuda Triangle -- you may have heard of it. Happenings in the Triangle tend to lean towards the decidedly-spooky, and the quests that Gamespot managed to see involved zombie armies, voodoo priestesses and possessed crew mates.

Some of the finer details in the preview show the effort that developer Flying Lab Software is putting in to make their game unique. An interesting part of the article tells of how the remains of a vanquished zombie can be donned and used as a disguise, to hide within enemy ranks. However, since the NPC monsters themselves move at walking pace, if you happen to break step and move a little too fast, the other zombies will realize something is up and turn on you.

Continue reading Pirates of the Burning Sea's supernatural side

MassivelyPirates of the Burning Sea's supernatural side originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 28 Oct 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bermuda-triangledisguiseflying-labghost-shipghostspiratespirates-of-the-burning-seapossessedpotbspreviewsupernaturalsupernatural-contentvoodoozombiezombiesSun, 28 Oct 2007 09:00:00 EST