Massively http://massively.joystiq.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://massively.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://massively.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hellgate Tokyo
Maybe I'm alone in this, but my jaw just dropped when I came home this past week to see that Massively posted the news that Shadowbane is coming back to life. Granted, it's only going to happen in China, but still, that's pretty incredible. Shadowbane's been in the ground for three years now, and if I had to pick an MMO that deserved resurrection, this particular one would be farthest from my mind (no offense if you liked the game; it's just that there are so many others that are even more worthy).

But how can this not give you hope? Many of us have lost an MMO we loved or at least had a decked-out character populating the character select screen, and the thought of that game coming back against all odds is a goosebump-rising one. It may also smack of justice served, as some MMOs fail not because of faulty gameplay but because of mismanagement by the studio, complex legal wrangling, or bad marketing.

Today let's look at a few examples of dead MMOs that were brought back to life and what this may mean for the future of the industry. Zombie MMOs! Not, you know, MMOs with zombies.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrchangyouclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicsclone-wars-adventurescrimediablodiablo-clonef2pfallen-earthfantasyfaxion-onlinefeaturedflagshipfree-realmsfree-to-playfrogsterg1galaxiesgame-archaelogistgamersfirsthanbitsofthellgatehellgate-globalhellgate-londonhellgate-tokyojohn-smedleylego-universemythosmythos-europemythos-globalnostalgiaopinionPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapvprebootredbanaresurrectionrevivalsandboxsci-fishadowbanesoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgot3t3funtabula-rasathe-game-archaeologistthe-matrix-onlinevanguardzombie-mmozombiesTue, 01 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Legends' teaser trailer is to die for]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-legends-teaser-trailer-is-to-die-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-legends-teaser-trailer-is-to-die-for/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/dark-legends-teaser-trailer-is-to-die-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dark Legends
We've gotten our first glimpse at the world of Spacetime Studios' Dark Legends, and it certainly sets a different tone than the mobiile MMO developer's past efforts. In this teaser trailer, a haunting rendition of House of the Rising Sun plays as blood flows back up and into the mouth of a delighted vampire.

Slated for release in the first quarter of this year on iOS, Android, and Chrome, Dark Legends is all about the supernatural underbelly of society. Players will choose a society of vampires to join and go forth to battle nasties like werewolves and zombies.

You can watch the trailer after the jump!

Continue reading Dark Legends' teaser trailer is to die for

MassivelyDark Legends' teaser trailer is to die for originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bosoms-galoredark-legendsf2pfree-to-playhouse-of-the-rising-sunspacetime-studiosteaser-trailertrailervampirevampiresvideovideoswerewolveszombiesWed, 15 Feb 2012 17:00:00 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[Hyperspace Beacon: Star Wars zombies]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/hyperspace-beacon-star-wars-zombies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/hyperspace-beacon-star-wars-zombies/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/hyperspace-beacon-star-wars-zombies/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: Star Wars zombies
Tomorrow, Star Wars: The Old Republic will launch its first content update, and you will most like be up to your eyeballs in Rakghouls and Hutts... or maybe you've not made it to 50 yet because you've been absorbed in the story and leveling alts. According to BioWare developers, there are 200 hours of gameplay in each class story, so even if someone were to have played eight hours a day every day over the last month, he would only have one level 50. I say, don't feel bad if you haven't hit 50 yet. It means that you are enjoying the game the way it was meant to be enjoyed and not skipping anything.

That said, it's not going to hurt to learn about this new update, although I suggest that, if you're into the story as much as I am, you don't read the patch notes... spoilers! Dang, BioWare, could you be a bit more ambiguous about the PTS patch notes next time? It's like someone leaning over halfway through the first screening Empire Strikes Back and saying, "Oh, by the way, Darth Vader is Luke's father." NOOOOO! It's impossible!

Being someone who is interested in the story revolving around SWTOR, I do love the continued use of Rakghouls in the newest update. Sure, some would call it an easy storytelling trope (zombies and all that). I'll admit it. I'm not going to hide behind "these are ghouls, not zombies." I love the story, but in truth these are Star Wars zombies. But I do find the history of the Rakghouls interesting. Honestly, I don't know how much of the story has been retcon'd after their first appearance in BioWare's first venture into the Star Wars IP, Knights of the Old Republic, but the roots of the Rakghouls stem from the birth of the Sith Empire. I love the way it all comes together.

[Update: BioWare postponed the patch to the 18th after the column was written. The first paragraph has been changed to reflect that.]

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: Star Wars zombies

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: Star Wars zombies originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareEAElectronic-Artsfeaturedgabe-amatangeloGame-UpdateLucasArtsPatch-1.1Rise-of-the-Rakghoulsspace-zombiesStar-WarsStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicSWTORThe-Old-RepublicTORzombiesTue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs' Jeff Strain takes players behind-the-scenes of Class3]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/undead-labs-jeff-strain-takes-players-behind-the-scenes-of-clas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/undead-labs-jeff-strain-takes-players-behind-the-scenes-of-clas/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/undead-labs-jeff-strain-takes-players-behind-the-scenes-of-clas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Zombie Apocalypse Survival 101: Don't set off car alarms
If you're as big of a zombie fan as we are, we're sure you're anxiously awaiting Undead Labs' Class3 project as well as its massively multiplayer counterpart, Class4. The studio's founder, Jeff Strain, stopped by the official Undead Labs site today to post the first dev blog entry of 2012, and in celebration of the new year, he's offering fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse at Class3 in action.

Strain notes that the team is "not quite ready to post official trailers" of Class3 at this juncture, but that didn't stop him from prowling the offices with his iPhone in order to catch some footage of the in-development title. The spy-cam footage gives players a look at various facets of the game's development, including. but not necessarily limited to, zombies (duh), a guy running alongside a giant rolling buzzsaw blade, concept art, the studio's wall-o'-fan-love, and two players defending their encampment from a zombie siege. Strain closes on a high note, stating that "Class3 is on-schedule and looking great. We're excited to show it to you and the rest of the world officially." For the full, zed-tastic video, just click on past the cut.

Continue reading Undead Labs' Jeff Strain takes players behind-the-scenes of Class3

MassivelyUndead Labs' Jeff Strain takes players behind-the-scenes of Class3 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-3class-4class3class4consoleconsolesholy-crap-i-hope-you-can-kill-things-with-that-sawbladehorrorjeff-strainpreviewspy-camundead-labsvideovideoszombiesSun, 08 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs' writer talks story in zombie MMOs]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/undead-labs-writer-talks-story-in-zombie-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/undead-labs-writer-talks-story-in-zombie-mmos/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/undead-labs-writer-talks-story-in-zombie-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Class3 - girl hiding from zombies
Don't look now, but there's another MMO jumping on the story bandwagon. This time it's Undead Labs' Class3 console game, and there's a new dev blog up on the title's official site that outlines writer Travis Stout's modus operandi.

Stout is a huge fan of the zombie genre, and that's a good thing given Class3's focus on the walking dead and the creeptastic atmosphere surrounding them. So what does Stout see as a writer's main mission when it comes to the upcoming MMO?

"Take the zombies out of the equation and be damn sure you've got a rock-solid story full of interesting, well-developed characters and exciting action," he explains. "Then put the zombies back in so those characters can smash their heads in with tire irons."

MassivelyUndead Labs' writer talks story in zombie MMOs originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-3class3console-mmoconsolesdev-blogdev-diaryfantasyhorrormmo-storymmo-story-zombiestravis-stoutundead-labszombiesMon, 05 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs Q&A touches on health bars, death mechanics]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/undead-labs-qanda-touches-on-health-bars-death-mechanics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/undead-labs-qanda-touches-on-health-bars-death-mechanics/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/undead-labs-qanda-touches-on-health-bars-death-mechanics/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Class 3 - ugly zombie dudes
Undead Labs has posted another question-and-answer session with fans of its upcoming Class 3 zombie MMO. The firm fielded a bunch of queries relating to healing, death, health bars, and assorted other topics.

"You'll have a health bar so you won't have to guess how much health you have, but zombies won't. While we could have opted to have no health bar for you too, we wanted to emphasize the survival aspect of the game by having the damage you take stick with you until you can heal up," the dev team says.

The Q&A also features some interesting tidbits about weight, fatigue and stamina, and the fact that zombies will respond to the noise generated by building survival structures (translation: Bring your duct tape). Read all about it at the official Undead Labs blog.

MassivelyUndead Labs Q&A touches on health bars, death mechanics originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-3class3console-mmoconsolesdeathgame-mechanicshealth-barshorrorundead-labszombiesSat, 22 Oct 2011 13:00:00 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[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[Undead Labs art director talks about the heart of horror]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/undead-labs-art-director-talks-about-the-heart-of-horror/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/undead-labs-art-director-talks-about-the-heart-of-horror/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/undead-labs-art-director-talks-about-the-heart-of-horror/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Undead Labs - Class3 zombie concept art
So what is art direction and why is it important to video games in general and MMORPGs in particular? That's a good question, and sadly one that can't be answered in a brief news post. What we can do, though, is point you to some worthwhile reading on the subject. Today's lesson comes courtesy of Undead Labs and Doug Williams.

Williams serves as the art director on the firm's upcoming zombie apocalype Xbox Live Arcade MMO (currently codenamed Class3), and while you might expect him to spend time talking about gory effects or the best way to render blood and brains in a dark environment, Williams actually spends a good portion of the latest Undead Labs blog post talking about something called "Faded Americana."

"Faded Americana really resonates with me because there are many analogies between the style and a zombie apocalypse. In both cases, you see society hanging onto the ghosts of its past," Williams explains. The concept goes a long way towards explaining Undead Labs' decision to set the game primarily in a small town environment, and Williams has quite a few interesting anecdotes relating to influential games as well as the challenges inherent in separating the new game from the stack of zombie-themed entertainment products that have swarmed over the popular consciousness in recent years.

MassivelyUndead Labs art director talks about the heart of horror originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-directionclass3consoleconsolesdev-blogdev-diaryfaded-americanahorrorhorror-mmosmall-town-americaundead-labsxboxxbox-livexbox-live-arcadezombie-apocalypsezombiesMon, 15 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Mask: Heroes vs. heroes]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/behind-the-mask-heroes-vs-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/behind-the-mask-heroes-vs-heroes/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/behind-the-mask-heroes-vs-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Champions Online screenshot
Although I've referenced it a little bit here and there, I've directly avoided talking about PvP in Champions Online. It's a controversial topic -- probably moreso in CO than in most other MMOs. In Champions, there is a massive difference between a hero who is focused on PvP and one who is not. Characters who are well-optimized PvE machines tend to perform acceptably (especially in certain types of PvP). However, if a hero isn't as optimized, he or she tends to get steamrolled by the flavors of the month.

Because most CO players are more casual players (in the sense that they don't plan builds and tend to pick powers that are "fun" or "cool"), they often get quite upset when they are defeated by an optimized PvP build. Most players I know tend to assume that the FoTM builds are unbeatable and that the only way to beat them is to join them.

Experienced PvPers know that this just isn't the case. It is true that an optimized PvP build is a necessity, but the actual optimization can take on many forms. There are dozens of effective "win buttons" in Champions' PvP out of a couple hundred powers. Out of dozens of possible kill methods, picking one and supplementing it with logical choices and personal flavor is a snap.

Continue reading Behind the Mask: Heroes vs. heroes

MassivelyBehind the Mask: Heroes vs. heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bashbattle-arena-super-heroesbehind-the-maskchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studiosduelf2pfeaturedflavor-of-the-monthfree-to-playpvpzombie-apocalypsezombieszombies-ate-my-neighborsThu, 11 Aug 2011 15:00:00 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[ArcheAge Lillet Meadows location previewed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/archeage-lillet-meadows-location-previewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/archeage-lillet-meadows-location-previewed/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/archeage-lillet-meadows-location-previewed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's been a few weeks since we've heard tell of any ArcheAge news, but fortunately our friends from AAportal have come through with a new article on XL Games' upcoming sandpark title.

Ordinarily we'd describe this sort of piece as a zone preview, but given that ArcheAge is an open world the phrase "location preview" seems more appropriate. The location in question is the Lillet Meadows, an area designed for players between levels 10 and 15 and situated near the Elven and Nuian starting areas. The meadows lie in a lush, fertile valley far from the hustle and bustle of the nearest city, and AAportal spends a good bit of virtual ink describing the natural surroundings.

Despite the tranquil setting, enemies abound in the area, most of them variations on undead that include wraiths, ghosts, and a new type of zombie that apparently features broken weapon fragments instead of limbs. Head to AAportal for all the details, and don't forget to click the image links to see all the Lillet Meadows screenshots.

MassivelyArcheAge Lillet Meadows location previewed originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arche-agearcheagefantasyghostslillet-meadowslocation-previewmeadowpreviewsandboxsandparkundeadwraithsxlxl-gameszombieszone-previewTue, 05 Jul 2011 11:00:00 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[Undead Labs talks about environments and the undead]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/undead-labs-talks-about-environments-and-the-undead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/undead-labs-talks-about-environments-and-the-undead/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/06/13/undead-labs-talks-about-environments-and-the-undead/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The upcoming zombie games from Undead Labs are aiming to give players a feeling of genuinely surviving in a world ruled by shambling corpses. To make that work correctly, players are going to need lots of little touches here and there to reinforce just what has gone wrong and what sort of threat living humans are facing. In the most recent set of questions and answers from the development team, more elements of the environment and interaction with same are spelled out, giving prospective survivors an idea of what to expect.

While the game isn't planned to be an ornate physics simulator, there will be a practical limit to how much an individual can carry -- and while vehicles can carry more, the problems of noise and fuel will place some limits on stacking an SUV to the brim with heavy weapons. Hunting wildlife and handling aquatic environments will both be issues in the game, with the obvious caveat that humans drown far more easily than zombies. There are a lot of other interesting tidbits in the full rundown as well as some valuable takeaways that aspiring survivors would do well to internalize.

MassivelyUndead Labs talks about environments and the undead originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>answersclass-3post-apocalypticq-and-aquestionssurvivalsurvival-horrorundead-labsunder-developmentzombie-survivalzombiesMon, 13 Jun 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic starts official video podcast [Updated]]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/runes-of-magic-starts-official-video-podcast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/runes-of-magic-starts-official-video-podcast/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/26/runes-of-magic-starts-official-video-podcast/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Don't change that dial! Frogster is hitting the airwaves with its very first official podcast dedicated to all things Runes of Magic, and you are in danger of being transmogrified into a frog if you ignore it.

RoMCast, as it's titled, is hosted by Runes of Magic CMs Mike Kiefer and Matthew Rider. The duo is dedicated to talking about all of the exciting -- and controversial -- subjects surrounding this free-to-play title. The podcast is accepting player questions for possible future discussions. To appeal to as wide of an audience as possible, RoMCast is filmed in English but subtitled in German, Spanish, Polish and French.

You can catch the first episode of RoMCast after the jump as Kiefer and Rider talk about the Chapter IV: Lands of Despair update, zombies, the new box version of the game, and the tricky topic of balancing!

[Update: Our RoM columnist Jeremy Stratton points out that the U.S. division of Frogster has also recently launched a video cast, this one called RoM Nation. Now RoM fans have double the aural fun!]

Continue reading Runes of Magic starts official video podcast [Updated]

MassivelyRunes of Magic starts official video podcast [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 May 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balancingchapter-4chapter-ivf2pfree-to-playfree-to-rubifrogsterlands-of-despairMatthew-RiderMike-Kieferpodcastromcastrunes-of-magicvideocastzombiesThu, 26 May 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic's Lands of Despair opens its borders on June 16th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/runes-of-magics-lands-of-despair-opens-its-borders-on-june-16th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/runes-of-magics-lands-of-despair-opens-its-borders-on-june-16th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/19/runes-of-magics-lands-of-despair-opens-its-borders-on-june-16th/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In less than a month, Runes of Magic adventurers will turn the page and begin a whole new chapter in the game's history. Frogster has announced that Chapter IV: Lands of Despair, the latest content update for Runes of Magic, will go live on June 16th.

If the name sounds foreboding, it's for a good reason: A horrible plague is spreading through the land, zombies are making a comeback, and Mad Lords are becoming all the rage. The update also includes a whopping four new zones, two additional dungeons, and an odd rivalry between the Dwarves and Rhinos.

It's not too late to catch up on all of the details of this exciting update. Check out our writeup of the lore behind Chapter IV, a preview video of two of the upcoming zones, our thoughts on the new starting zone, and our detailed analysis on all of the changes.

MassivelyRunes of Magic's Lands of Despair opens its borders on June 16th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 May 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chapter-ivchapter-iv-lands-of-despairdungeonsdwarvesf2pfree-to-playfrogsterlands-of-despairloremad-lordpestilenceplaguepreviewrhinosromrunes-of-magicstarting-zonezombiesThu, 19 May 2011 10:30:00 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[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[Blood Moon event running in Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/blood-moon-event-running-in-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/blood-moon-event-running-in-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/blood-moon-event-running-in-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Why are you still alive in Champions Online when everyone else is dead? Because you follow the rules. Rule number one -- cardio. The ones without travel powers are the first to go. Rule number two -- double-tap. You never know when someone's going to claim the other zombie you want to kill, after all. Yes, the Blood Moon is rising once again, and that means a few days of zombie-killing fun for the heroes of Millennium City.

Running for the first time since the game's free-to-play conversion, the event is currently open and will run until 11:59 p.m. PST on Sunday. The full outline of the event lists all of the rewards open to players who take part in thwarting the onslaught of undead, werewolves, and other dark magic. Champions Online players can log in and start enjoying the madness right away, and of course the game's business model means anyone can jump in for a bit of event fun.

MassivelyBlood Moon event running in Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-moonchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-studioseventf2pfree-to-playin-game-eventnewsspecial-eventundeadzombie-apocalypsezombiesFri, 25 Feb 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[JumpCore releases Undead Online teaser]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/jumpcore-releases-undead-online-teaser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/jumpcore-releases-undead-online-teaser/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/jumpcore-releases-undead-online-teaser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

There's a new zombie MMO in the works, and the developers at JumpCore seem to have their tongues planted firmly in cheek, if the newest game trailer is any indication. The game is Undead Online, and the clip is currently front and center on the title's website. Though the trailer clocks in at under a minute, that's time enough to give potential players a brief look at the game's whimsical aesthetic, cartoonish gore, and sardonic sense of humor.

Undead Online details are fairly sparse at this point, but we do know that JumpCore is spearheaded by Cryptic alum Cameron Petty and that the game will feature episodic content wrapped in an MMOFPS skin. You can sign up on the game's official forums, join the discussion, and check out the trailer after the cut.

Continue reading JumpCore releases Undead Online teaser

MassivelyJumpCore releases Undead Online teaser originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>braaaiiinnnsscameron-pettyhorrorjumpcorejumpcore-productionsstylized-graphicsteasertrailertrailersundead-onlinevideozombie-mmozombiesFri, 25 Feb 2011 11:00:00 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[There's a conspiracy afoot: Funcom and EA co-publishing The Secret World]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/theres-a-conspiracy-afoot-funcom-and-ea-co-publishing-the-secr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/theres-a-conspiracy-afoot-funcom-and-ea-co-publishing-the-secr/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/theres-a-conspiracy-afoot-funcom-and-ea-co-publishing-the-secr/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Secret World went dark a few months ago -- no doubt to hatch nefarious, world-ending plots that involve brain leeches and alien zombies -- so it's good to see Funcom's sinister child poke its head up for some solid news. It turns out that Funcom's been involved in a conspiracy of sorts: The company has signed a pact with EA Partners to co-publish The Secret World. EA Partners is a division of Electronic Arts that co-publishes third-party games such as Crysis and APB's first incarnation.

Funcom CEO Trond Arne Aas sees this as a way to propel the company's MMO to world domination: "We are tremendously excited to be working with what is undoubtedly the world-leading games publisher for the past decade, and it is also a great testament to the fantastic work of our development team. The experience and the knowledge that Electronic Arts brings to the table will be instrumental in allowing us to realize the full potential of The Secret World."

Funcom's had a rocky few years with its finances, which is why some doubted if The Secret World would ever make it to launch. Fortunately, this co-publishing deal seems to ensure that TSW will go the distance with two companies supporting it. We still have no word on the beta or release date, but this is at least a step toward the MMO seeing the light of day -- or the gloom of the night.

MassivelyThere's a conspiracy afoot: Funcom and EA co-publishing The Secret World originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbbrain-leechesbreakingco-publishco-publishingcrysisdealeaea-partnerselectronic-artsfuncomlegalthe-secret-worldtrond-arne-aastswzombiesMon, 10 Jan 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: MMO cataclysms]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/the-perfect-ten-mmo-cataclysms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/the-perfect-ten-mmo-cataclysms/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/the-perfect-ten-mmo-cataclysms/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Today sees the launch of World of Warcraft: Cataclysm, which represents a destructive "reboot" button on the world of Azeroth. The old has been made new by virtue of fiery explosions that have rent the very earth in twain, and WoW gamers will have to find their footing all over again. As you might imagine, it's made one big-ass mess, which is compounded by the fact that there are no janitor classes in the game to sweep it up (the next hero class, perhaps?).

However, the notion of an in-game cataclysm is hardly the sole domain of Activision-Blizzard; on the contrary, large-scale apocalypses pop up all the time in MMOs. After all, nothing grabs the attention like the end of the world (but hey, you still feel fine)!

In a list that in no way is meant to capitalize on any expansions that may or may not be on the market, we're going to strap on our Kevlar suits, slather our arms with 1000 SPF sunblock, and take a brief tour of 10 worlds that have dated cataclysms -- and lived to tell the tale.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: MMO cataclysms

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: MMO cataclysms originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activision-Blizzardagent-smithapocalypsearenanetascalonazerothbanebig-bangblizzardc-storecataclysmchampionschampions-onlinechickenscity-of-heroescohcrypticcryptic-studioscrystal-warcrystal-war-revisiteddetroitelrondEverQuest-2everquest-iifacebookfallen-earthff11ffxifinal-fantasy-xigethguild-warsgwhumoricarus-studiosjack-emmertjohn-smedleykiller-virusklingonmaplestorymegatronmillennium-citymono-dohmonorailncsoftnew-game-enhancementsnew-jerseyngenorrathnuclear-warparagon-cityperfect-10perfect-tenpicardpost-apocalypticpost-searingquadavrex-the-sheepdogriktiromulansearingsoespace-invadersstar-trek-onlinestar-trek-the-next-generationstar-wars-galaxiesstarfleetstoswgtabula-rasathe-matrixthe-matrix-onlinethe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenvwheres-waldo-in-tagsWorld-of-Warcraftworld-of-warcraft-cataclysmzombiesTue, 07 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead Labs answers fan questions]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/undead-labs-answers-fan-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/undead-labs-answers-fan-questions/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/12/07/undead-labs-answers-fan-questions/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Undead Labs has published a list of reader questions (and a few select answers) regarding its zombie-themed console MMORPG currently in development. New community manager Emily Diehl checks in on the official Undead Labs website to bring us a wrap-up from the queries submitted on the game's forums.

The topics range from the title's shooting and aiming mechanics, to vehicle implementations, to its persistent qualities. Regarding this last bit, Undead Labs seems intent on putting to rest any notion that the game's console nature will result in anything less than a traditional open world experience. "This may seem like a no-brainer, but we're building an actual world. We want it to live, breathe, change and evolve over time, responding to the choices you make while immersed in it," the studio writes.

Check all the questions and answers on the game's official site.

MassivelyUndead Labs answers fan questions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-mmoconsolesemily-diehlhorrorin-developmentopen-worldpersistent-worldpost-apocalypticqaquestions-and-answersreader-questionsundead-labszombie-mmozombiesTue, 07 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist and the Asheron Recall: The highlights]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-asheron-recall-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-asheron-recall-the-highlights/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/the-game-archaeologist-and-the-asheron-recall-the-highlights/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It's hard being the youngest child -- you get the hand-me-downs, suffer through swirlies by older siblings, and eventually develop such a neurosis that it requires seven different brands of horse tranquilizers to make it through the day. Not that I would actually know, being an oldest child and all. But I suppose it would be a hard-knock life.

In a couple ways, Asheron's Call was the youngest of the three MMO siblings that comprised the first major MMO generation. Ultima Online, the big brother, had prestige and legacy behind it, and middle child EverQuest quickly became the most popular at school. And then there was Asheron's Call, poking its head on the scene in late 1999 as a cooperative project between developer Turbine and publisher Microsoft. AC never got the recognition of Ultima Online nor the numbers of EverQuest, but this scrappy title became a fan favorite and endured even to this day -- beyond its own sequel, believe it or not.

Instead of plowing through a stale history report of Asheron's Call today, I thought it'd be fun to come up with a list of the eight most unique aspects of this fairly innovative 11-year-old MMO. Ah lists, how I adore thee -- let me count the ways. Eight ways, to be precise!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist and the Asheron Recall: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist and the Asheron Recall: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acac2allegiance-systemasherons-callasherons-call-2asherons-call-for-dinnerasherons-whisper-of-sweet-nothingsasherons-yodelcrypticderethdnddungeons-and-dragonseqeventseverquestfealty-systemfeaturedfiunlistslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromicrosoftmosswartolthoiracial-skillsseamless-worldskill-basedstar-trek-onlinestostory-arcthe-game-archaeologisttolkienturbineultima-onlineundeaduoworld-of-warcraftzombiesTue, 05 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Earth Eternal celebrates Zombie Awareness Month]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/earth-eternal-celebrates-zombie-awareness-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/earth-eternal-celebrates-zombie-awareness-month/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/earth-eternal-celebrates-zombie-awareness-month/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Did you know that May is Zombie Awareness Month? Well, now you do, as do the folks at Earth Eternal. They've prepared for the event in the nick of time -- hordes of undead are invading the lands of Earth Eternal, threatening the land and the beasts that inhabit it. What's worse, rumors are flying that some of the beasts are assisting the zombies, as well as "glorious rewards" promised to those who help feed their appetites.

The heroes of Bremen, Heartwood, and Camelot need your aid in defeating the zombie invasion. Log in to Earth Eternal every weekend this May to warn the people, defend the beasts, and learn the secret behind the zombie invasion and strange alliances being formed.

The first event is this weekend, May 15th - 16th. Sparkplay warns players to be careful: "zombies may not be fast, but they are everywhere!"

MassivelyEarth Eternal celebrates Zombie Awareness Month originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 May 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earth-eternalf2pfree-to-playsparkplaysparkplay-mediazombie-awareness-monthzombiesTue, 11 May 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview with Undead Labs' Jeff Strain]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/interview-with-undead-labs-jeff-strain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/interview-with-undead-labs-jeff-strain/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/interview-with-undead-labs-jeff-strain/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Last month we heard about Jeff Strain's new studio Undead Labs, and his upcoming zombie MMO. In the wake of that exciting announcement, Kill Ten Rats was lucky enough to spend some time with Jeff in an interview.

They covered quite a few important questions: fast zombies or slow ones, why it's best to hide in a Costco in the event of a zombie apocalypse, those darn velociraptors, and why so many development companies are in Seattle.

Oh, yes, they also talked about gaming. Jeff covered some interesting points on the complexities of console MMO gaming -- the lack of a keyboard seems to be the biggest issue -- as well as how much he loves the term "MMO" (not really). Jeff also gave due respect to World of Warcraft, and even managed to toss in a "shameless plug" for Guild Wars 2. The full interview is well worth your time, and can be found here.

MassivelyInterview with Undead Labs' Jeff Strain originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-mmoGuild-Wars-2jeff-strainkill-ten-ratsundead-labsworld-of-warcraftzombiesWed, 16 Dec 2009 21:00:00 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[Massively's Fallen Earth trial key giveaway and in-game events]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/massivelys-fallen-earth-trial-key-giveaway-and-in-game-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/massivelys-fallen-earth-trial-key-giveaway-and-in-game-events/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/23/massivelys-fallen-earth-trial-key-giveaway-and-in-game-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


As we mentioned last week, we have quite a treat for you today as part of the Fallen Earth Halloween event. We're happy to present 2,000 trial keys for anyone interested in trying out this indie post-apocalyptic game before forking over the cash. This special trial key is good for 15 days, which will bring you through their entire Days of the Dead Halloween event, as well as our own upcoming in-game events.

To get your trial key, simply visit our giveaway page and follow the posted directions. For more information on our in-game events - including a great developer interview - keep reading below.

Continue reading Massively's Fallen Earth trial key giveaway and in-game events

MassivelyMassively's Fallen Earth trial key giveaway and in-game events originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>days-of-the-deadfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfree-trialgiveawayhalloween2009icarus-studiosin-game-eventpost-apoc-radiopost-apocalyptictrial-keyzombiesFri, 23 Oct 2009 14:30:00 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[Fallen Earth announces Halloween event and trial key giveaway]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/fallen-earth-announces-halloween-event-and-trial-key-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/fallen-earth-announces-halloween-event-and-trial-key-giveaway/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/fallen-earth-announces-halloween-event-and-trial-key-giveaway/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Let's see a show of hands for those of you who love zombies. They might come in all shapes and sizes, but we all have our favorites. Are you more a fan of the slow-moving George Romero zombies, or the leaping-over-cars infected zombies? Perhaps you're more of a vampire-zombie aficionado. Regardless of your preference, it's still fun to smash a few in the head, am I right?

There are already several types of Infected in Fallen Earth, but starting next week, there's about to be a whole lot more. The folks at Fallen Earth have announced their Halloween event -- aptly named Days of the Dead -- where you will have a chance to kill throngs of Infected as they pour from the Lifenet pods into the wasteland. Of course you'll need some back-up for this, so we'll also have 2,000 15-day trial keys to give away to your zombie-hunter buddies. In addition to this, we'll have our own in-game events in association with Post Apoc Radio to be held during Days of the Dead. The giveaway and our in-game events won't start until next week, but we're getting you prepared for the onslaught now. Follow along after the jump for complete information on the Days of the Dead event.

Continue reading Fallen Earth announces Halloween event and trial key giveaway

MassivelyFallen Earth announces Halloween event and trial key giveaway originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>days-of-the-deadfallen-earthhalloweenhalloween2009in-game-eventinfectedzombiesThu, 15 Oct 2009 15:30:00 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.

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Champions Online has seen a lot of update love since launch. By all accounts it's continuing to throughout October with this look at what's to come by Cryptic. The addition of more missions is always welcome, especially in combination with the mission tracking improvements that'll make grouping easier. Even better is the Power House 2.0 that'll come with a new live combat training room and power tips from trainers. Those power tips are going to help a lot of confused players create builds that both suite and actually work for them.

Last but not least is Blood Moon, which will be released on October 27th and promises to bring a hefty chunk of content for all levels to enjoy. The new PvP map known as Zombie Apocalypse sounds like something out of Left 4 Dead and blasting the undead with superpowers is a wholly new concept that we're behind 100%.

Check after the break for a full rundown of what's coming to Champions Online in the month of October.

Continue reading Champions Online October changes, Blood Moon releasing on the 27th

MassivelyChampions Online October changes, Blood Moon releasing on the 27th originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariblood-moonchampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosoctoberpower-housepvpzombie-apocalypsezombiesMon, 05 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Revealed: Champions Online's first update, Blood Moon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/revealed-champions-onlines-first-update-blood-moon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/revealed-champions-onlines-first-update-blood-moon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/02/revealed-champions-onlines-first-update-blood-moon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Champions Online's Blood Moon update has finally been revealed, and wow does it sound pretty cool. Beginning in October, the update will add the Celestial powerset, which sounds like a versatile arrangement of powers allowing you to heal allies or harm enemies.

The actual in-game event itself looks to be exciting, as it involves fighting off a dark sorcerer known as Takofanes. We're decidedly excited about the 'Zombie Apocalypse' rising in Canada. Zombies in PVP? Yes please. And when a player falls in combat, they'll return as one of the undead, bound to fight in Takofanes' name. There will also be werewolves to fight, although what their dark bite does to a player isn't as clear just yet.

We really love is how the lore is being tied into the event. Millennium City was built on the smoldering crater where Detroit once stood. For the Blood Moon event, players will have the chance to fight against heroes who fought in the Battle of Detroit and free their souls from Takofanes' evil necromancy. It all ends in a big throw down with Takofanes himself. We'll hear more about the details in the coming weeks. Maybe we'll even get some additional info from Cryptic at PAX this weekend!

MassivelyRevealed: Champions Online's first update, Blood Moon originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atariblood-mooncanadacelestialchampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosin-game-eventmillennium-citytakofanesundeadupdatewerewolveszombiesWed, 02 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard downplays Wrath's issues in China]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/blizzard-downplays-wraths-issues-in-china/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/blizzard-downplays-wraths-issues-in-china/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/blizzard-downplays-wraths-issues-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


As we've reported on earlier, Wrath of the Lich King isn't heading towards a speedy approval for Chinese audiences, leading to problems for The9 if they can't get Wrath approved by the government. However, unlike The9, Blizzard is downplaying the issues Wrath may be facing.

Blizzard has told GamesIndustry.biz that "World of Warcraft continues to operate as normal in mainland China, and we're continuing to work with our local partner, The9, toward the launch of Wrath of the Lich King there. An official announcement will be made once it's ready to go."

It seems that everything is on track for Wrath's launch in China according to the company, but only time will ultimately tell when Wrath will be able to get away from the new stringent regulations holding it back.

MassivelyBlizzard downplays Wrath's issues in China originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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[Behind the Curtain: More apocalypse please pt. 2]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/behind-the-curtain-more-apocalypse-please-pt-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/behind-the-curtain-more-apocalypse-please-pt-2/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/behind-the-curtain-more-apocalypse-please-pt-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Seriously, don't get me startedThis was the point where things got interesting for me. One lasting memory of the event I have is a one-line message I saw in the Trade channel while in Ironforge. It read simply, "Stay out of Stormwind, it's infected." I did the only thing a sane person would do in that situation and hopped on the first Gryphon to Stormwind. It was like a dream come true. Zombies were thronging the streets, attacking anyone they could get their hands on, vomiting on those they couldn't, and blowing themselves up when all else failed. Nowhere was safe. I could barely see the floor of the Auction House for all the skeletons there; the Bank was similarly decorated and my FPS dropped sharply from the shimmery green glow the infection gave off.

Continue reading Behind the Curtain: More apocalypse please pt. 2

MassivelyBehind the Curtain: More apocalypse please pt. 2 originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arthasauction-housebanksbehind-the-curtainexanimusinfectedinfectionlich-kingmax-brooksscourgescourge-invasionworld-of-warcraftworld-war-zwowwrathwrath-of-the-lich-kingzombie-infestationzombie-invasionzombie-survival-guidezombiesSun, 09 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the Curtain: More apocalypse please]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/behind-the-curtain-more-apocalypse-please-pt-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/behind-the-curtain-more-apocalypse-please-pt-1/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/behind-the-curtain-more-apocalypse-please-pt-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Don't get me started on this guy...So let's be clear here - I loves me some zombies. A childhood brush with Ray Harryhausen means that I still get chills when I think abut armoured skeletons eviscerating hapless Argonauts. Later encounters, first with ridiculously over-wrought Victorian Gothic Horror literature, and later with the genius of one Mr. Romero sealed my fate.

Regardless of the source, my love affair with the Undead has been long-standing. And no, I don't mean that kind of love affair. Freak. After I finished reading The Zombie Survival Guide for the first time, I carried it in my bag for a month afterwards. Not because I thought Zombie might be real, but because the book was awesome. And don't get me started on World War Z - Massively is not the place for a 3000-word Max Brooks love-fest.

Continue reading Behind the Curtain: More apocalypse please

MassivelyBehind the Curtain: More apocalypse please originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As City of Heroes players will know, Paragon City and the Rogue Isles were recently rocked by a wave of zombie invasions, as hordes of the crumbling dead clawed their way up from beneath the lawns and sidewalks. As events go, it was a great success.

It was thought that with the passing of the Season of the Witch, the invasions would cease, and indeed they have; however, recent arcane communications have confirmed that the players can cause an invasion to take place, in a similar way to that in which Rikti invasions are triggered by the completion of a Lady Grey Task Force. This is excellent news for badge collectors, as the chance to earn badges for zombie defeats now won't be limited to a short time window.

Continue reading CoX players seek elusive zombie trigger

MassivelyCoX players seek elusive zombie trigger originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxhalloweenncsoftzombiesWed, 05 Nov 2008 11:30:00 EST