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[Wizard101 invites players into the mythical realm of Avalon]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/wizard101-invites-players-into-the-mythical-realm-of-avalon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/wizard101-invites-players-into-the-mythical-realm-of-avalon/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/wizard101-invites-players-into-the-mythical-realm-of-avalon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wiz101 Avalon
Wizard101 players have been all over, from the lush jungles of Zafaria to the pyramids of Krokotopia, but as of today there's a whole new land for them to explore: the mystical land of Avalon. Avalon, as the name implies, is a land based in Arthurian legend, and it also happens to be the former home of Ravenwood's headmaster, Merle Ambrose.

But all is not well in the usually idyllic Avalon. The nefarious Umbra Queen Morganthe and her minions are causing trouble, and it's up to the players to find and recover the legendary blade of King Artorius, the Sword of Kings, and put a stop to Morganthe's mayhem. Players who are level 70 or above and who have completed the quest Through Glass, Darkly can find their way to Avalon by speaking to Merle Ambrose, who will send them on a quest to the new zone. For the full details on the new update, magick your way on over to the Wizard101 official site.

MassivelyWizard101 invites players into the mythical realm of Avalon originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arthurianavalonf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentpatchpatchessword-of-kingsupdateupdateswizard101zonezonesWed, 02 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Check and mate: A look at Otherland's EightSquared simulation]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/check-and-mate-a-look-at-otherlands-eightsquared-simulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/check-and-mate-a-look-at-otherlands-eightsquared-simulation/http://massively.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/check-and-mate-a-look-at-otherlands-eightsquared-simulation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Knight from B1 to -- aw, s**t.
Fans of Tad Williams' deliciously cyberpunk book series Otherland are almost certainly waiting with bated breath for gamigo and RealU's upcoming MMO adaptation of the universe. In hopes of making the wait just a tad easier, gamigo has released a new developer diary video focusing on the EightSquared universe of Otherland.

EightSquared, as you may have surmised from the name, is a simulation in which an entire medieval countryside has sprung forth from a gargantuan chess board on which the Red and White armies are locked in an eternal war/game. But something has gone wrong with the simulation: The armies are no longer following the rules of warfare (i.e., rules of chess), and it's up to players to find out where the problem lies before things get too far out of hand and cause the destruction of the simulation itself. The full dev diary also provides a look at the game's Lifecycle AI, which breathes life into the world by providing NPCs who follow their own day-to-day schedules.

So what are you waiting for? Log in to the Net and go take a look for yourself.

[Source: gamigo press release]

Continue reading Check and mate: A look at Otherland's EightSquared simulation

MassivelyCheck and mate: A look at Otherland's EightSquared simulation originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chesscyberpunkdev-diariesdev-diarydeveloper-diariesdeveloper-diaryeightsquaredf2pfree-to-playgamigootherlandrealusci-fitad-williamsvideovideosvirtual-worldvirtual-worldszonezonesFri, 30 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World unveils the Scorched Desert]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/the-secret-world-unveils-the-scorched-desert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/the-secret-world-unveils-the-scorched-desert/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/the-secret-world-unveils-the-scorched-desert/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
The Secret World is expanding its territory today with a new video revealing the Scorched Desert. The new zone is set in -- where else -- the sands of Egypt, where a dark corruption is taking over the land. Biblical plagues have returned to Egypt as an ancient cult awakens the dead. Of course, it will be up to players to fight back the forces of darkness and keep the paranormal activity at bay. For the full video, just click on past the cut.

Continue reading The Secret World unveils the Scorched Desert

MassivelyThe Secret World unveils the Scorched Desert originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>egyptfuncomrevealscorched-desertthe-scorched-desertthe-secret-worldtswvideovideoszoneTue, 06 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Clone Wars Adventures releases Umbara combat zone trailer]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/clone-wars-adventures-releases-umbara-combat-zone-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/clone-wars-adventures-releases-umbara-combat-zone-trailer/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/clone-wars-adventures-releases-umbara-combat-zone-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Clone Wars Adventures
Star Wars: Clone Wars Adventures is getting a new expansion known as Battle of Umbara. And just for giggles, the update will be hitting the live game on December 15th, which is the first day of Star Wars: The Old Republic's head start. Sony Online Entertainment has released a short video to show players what they have to look forward to from the Umbara combat zone when the update goes live on the 15th. Along with the new combat zone, the expansion will also bring new mission instances, zone-wide events, and more.. If you want to check the game out, you can sign up for free on the game's official site. Otherwise, just click on past the cut for the video.

Continue reading Clone Wars Adventures releases Umbara combat zone trailer

MassivelyClone Wars Adventures releases Umbara combat zone trailer originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle-of-umbaraclone-wars-adventurescombat-zonecwaexpansionexpansionsf2pfree-to-playsoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-clone-wars-adventuresumbaravideovideoszoneWed, 30 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Which environments tend to drain your interest?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/the-daily-grind-which-environments-tend-to-drain-your-interest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/the-daily-grind-which-environments-tend-to-drain-your-interest/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/the-daily-grind-which-environments-tend-to-drain-your-interest/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

You can fill it with huts, with giants, with goblins, with anything you want - it's still another cave.
The problem with fantasy settings is that the imagery is pretty well played out. You know there will be an area with a lot of trees, probably a desert, probably a set of rolling plains, and of course there will be caves. And the odds are good that at least one of those environments won't make you feel like you're off on an epic adventure; it will make you feel as if you're traipsing through the same environments you've traipsed through hundred of times. Until you just log off, that is.

Maybe it's another promise of brown or gray caves winding about interminably. Maybe it's the thought of another forest, or another plain, or another rocky mountainous area. Or perhaps it's the more surreal and fanciful environments that make you roll your eyes and want to just stop playing. Which environments tend to drain your interest in the game? No matter how interesting any other part of the zone might be, what sort of regions just make you feel burnt out and bored?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Which environments tend to drain your interest? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 09 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>areasculturedesignenvironmentsfeaturedgraphicsopinionregionstdgthe-daily-grindvisual-themesvisualszonezonesSun, 09 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Seven things to do in Ered Luin before you die]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/the-road-to-mordor-seven-things-to-do-in-ered-luin-before-you-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/the-road-to-mordor-seven-things-to-do-in-ered-luin-before-you-d/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/the-road-to-mordor-seven-things-to-do-in-ered-luin-before-you-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LOTRO Ered Luin
As I moved on to my second starter zone in Lord of the Rings Online on my mission to complete every quest in every area of the game, I was in for a rude, if expected, awakening. In comparison to the Shire, LotRO's Ered Luin is lacking across the board. It's hard to imagine that the game's most eastern zone, which houses not one but two racial starting areas, could turn out to be a snoozefest, but I'll let the title of this article do the talking for me. I wanted to have 10 highlights of each zone for this series and could barely get to seven.

The problem here is multifold. In trying to cram both the Elves and Dwarves into a relatively small (if tall) zone, Turbine didn't allow for the space to develop either race's culture before throwing them together in the middle for an awkward social dance. The races aren't allowed to really establish their personalities, either, leaving the Elves to start shining in Rivendell and the Dwarves in Moria. Finally, many of the quests are so dull and forgettable as to prompt players to race through the area to escape to more interesting locales.

It's not all a loss, of course. Some of the areas are quite scenic, and I do actually approve of the concept of setting up the conflict between Dwarves and Elves. If anything, the taste of ideas here almost begs for the area to be significantly expanded so that these concepts could be played out and the respective Elf and Dwarf habitations could be given more life.

In the end, I recommend that visiting travelers, adventurers, and treasure-hunters pack a light lunch and plan to get the following seven activities done in a half-day's span.

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Seven things to do in Ered Luin before you die

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Seven things to do in Ered Luin before you die originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bathobbitbatmandwarfdwarveselfelvesered-luinfeaturedGondamonguideindiana-joneslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromapthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentwinezoneFri, 16 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: Lucent Heart's Scaena zones and bosses]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/exclusive-lucent-hearts-scaena-zones-and-bosses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/exclusive-lucent-hearts-scaena-zones-and-bosses/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/exclusive-lucent-hearts-scaena-zones-and-bosses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Lucent Heart screenshot
If you were looking for something a little more "traditional fantasy" after Lucent Heart's music-and-dance routine video last week, then today's dev diary will suit your tastes. In it, the folks at Gamania have delivered to us an exclusive preview of the upcoming Scaena update's zones and bosses. The world of Acadia is being enhanced with the Witch's Cliff on the continent of Cropolis; the level 65-69 Heart of Fire in the lands of Fostyre; the crafting hub Minotsize, City of Industry; and the continents of Edea and Aislan. The dev diary also highlights two of the opponents that players can expect to encounter: the formidable God's Advocate in Mount Destiny and the scorpion-riding Medea in the Witch's Cliff.

Hit the break for the full scoop, and check out screenshots of some of the bosses and zones in the gallery below.

Gallery: Lucent Heart Core Gallery

Continue reading Exclusive: Lucent Heart's Scaena zones and bosses

MassivelyExclusive: Lucent Heart's Scaena zones and bosses originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bossbossesf2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerygamanialhlucent-heartnewspatchpatchesscaenascreenshotscreenshotsupdateupdateszonezonesThu, 18 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO gives us a glimpse into Isengard's Dunland]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/lotro-gives-us-a-glimpse-into-isengards-dunland/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/lotro-gives-us-a-glimpse-into-isengards-dunland/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/lotro-gives-us-a-glimpse-into-isengards-dunland/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dunland, one of Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard's three new zones, promises to be a treat for bold Hobbits and nebbish Elves alike. Today we've gotten a better picture of what Dunland will look like as Turbine's released six screenshots giving us a feel for the wide range of vistas we'll be encountering.

Dunland is located at the southern reaches of the Misty Mountains, with hilly, swampy and woodsy areas awaiting our discovery. The zone is dominated by the many clans of the Dunland peoples who are being tempted by Saruman into joining the forces of the Enemy.

We've got a little over two months to go until LotRO's latest expansion hits the streets, so take your time to peruse all six of these new screenshots in the gallery below:

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online Core Gallery

MassivelyLotRO gives us a glimpse into Isengard's Dunland originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clansdunlanddunland-clansdunlanderselvesexpansiongalleryhobbithobbitslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromisty-mountainsrise-of-isengardsarumanscreenshotsswampturbineturbine-entertainmentzoneWed, 20 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Tattered Notebook: Five zones that deserve a revamp]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/the-tattered-notebook-five-zones-that-deserve-a-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/the-tattered-notebook-five-zones-that-deserve-a-revamp/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/30/the-tattered-notebook-five-zones-that-deserve-a-revamp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Recently, EverQuest II developer Kyle "Kander" Vallee tweeted his followers asking for input on the following question: "What #EQII zone would you love to see revamped into new heroic content?"

That's a tough but really fun question. Over the years, EverQuest II has added so many overland and instanced zones that there's no shortage of choices. A quick glance at the dungeon list at EQ2i shows well over 100 major heroic instances and open dungeons for groups. If you add in the list of minor instances, like the Splitpaw adventure pack instances or the Fallen Dynasty trials, it's easily over 120. In fact, there are so many group zones that it's nearly impossible to level up and see them all (I vote for a new in-game dungeon listing for the next UI revamp!).

I've played through a good chunk of these zones and put together a list of the top five dungeons that deserve a makeover. Read on for the full list!

Continue reading The Tattered Notebook: Five zones that deserve a revamp

MassivelyThe Tattered Notebook: Five zones that deserve a revamp originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 May 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-packeq2eq2xeqiiEverQuest-2everquest-2-extendedeverquest-iieverquest-ii-extendedfallen-dynastyfallen-dynasty-trialsfeaturedforsaken-cityisle-of-refugekael-drakkelkanderkyle-valleenew-tunariarevampssoeSony-Online-Entertainmentsplitpawtattered-notebookveliouszonezone-revampzonesMon, 30 May 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: What's the most poorly designed zone?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/01/the-daily-grind-whats-the-most-poorly-designed-zone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/01/the-daily-grind-whats-the-most-poorly-designed-zone/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/05/01/the-daily-grind-whats-the-most-poorly-designed-zone/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We've all been there: trekking through the levels, traversing the world, and eventually arriving at... that place. The zone that seems to have been designed to irritate you, personally. Either it's laid out too confusingly, or the quest objectives are too hard to reach, or you get turned around every two feet. It's a poorly designed area, plain and simple.

I was pondering this during a recent expedition to the Foundations of Stone in Lord of the Rings Online's Moria. It's not a horrible zone; the creatures are terrifying, the atmosphere is spot-on, and it contains a few of the signature landmarks of the game world. And yet I have to contend that it is a poorly designed place. It's difficult to navigate, the walls are tough on the eyes, and the key quest hub is incredibly hard to find on your first (or second) try. With a few tweaks and a moderate redesign, it could be much more accommodating to the odd traveler.

What other zones fall into this category for you? What zones aren't necessarily bad so much as they're just poorly laid-out and structured?

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

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: What's the most poorly designed zone? originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 May 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>foundations-of-stonelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromoriaopinionpoorly-designedtdgthe-daily-grindworld-buildingworst-zonezonezone-designSun, 01 May 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Priston Tale 2 goes to the Desert Frontier]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/priston-tale-2-goes-to-the-desert-frontier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/priston-tale-2-goes-to-the-desert-frontier/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/priston-tale-2-goes-to-the-desert-frontier/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Saddle up those camels and stock up on water: Priston Tale 2 is expanding once more with the all-new Desert Frontier zone! The new area may be weather-beaten and sandy, but it's certainly rich in additional quests, challenges and adventures.

The Desert Frontier takes place in an alternate realm where the populace has bowed its will to the evil god Midranda. As you might imagine, this does not make for a fluffy, heart-warming place, and players will need to be quick on their toes to fend off never-before-seen mobs like the Anduhal Rider and the Grity.

With today's 2.1.9 patch, all players will also be able to reset their skill combinations and reallocate points. GamerKraft plans to release another update next week to add PvP match-making features to the game.

For more info on the free-to-play Priston Tale 2, check out our Rise and Shiny exploration of the title, and to get a quick overview of the Desert Frontier, hit the jump to watch the official trailer!

Continue reading Priston Tale 2 goes to the Desert Frontier

MassivelyPriston Tale 2 goes to the Desert Frontier originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Anduhal-Riderdesert-frontierdesert-zonef2pfree-to-playgamerkraftgritymatchmakingMidrandanew-zonepatchpatch-2.1.9priston-talepriston-tale-2pvppvp-matchmakingrise-and-shinyupdatezoneThu, 14 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory goes Greek: New island coming to the game April 6th]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/maplestory-goes-greek-new-island-coming-to-the-game-april-6th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/maplestory-goes-greek-new-island-coming-to-the-game-april-6th/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/maplestory-goes-greek-new-island-coming-to-the-game-april-6th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

It's no April Fools' joke: Nexon is adding a Greek-themed island to MapleStory on April 6th, ancient columns and all.

Chyrse is a floating island -- thanks to a mysterious power -- that's long since left the world and has been in isolation because of its distance. Now things have changed, and Chyrse is open for business and for war. Xerxes, a fearsome baddie, has declared war against the friendly giants of the isle, and it's up to you to stop him.

MapleStory players between the levels of 55 and 75 are encouraged to team up with friends to take on Xerxes and his forces. If players are victorious, Nexon promises to reward them with new, unique weapons and gear.

While you wait for the 6th, you can check out the first images of Chyrse in the gallery below!

Gallery: MapleStory

MassivelyMapleStory goes Greek: New island coming to the game April 6th originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-foolsChyrsefloating-islandgiantsgreekmaplestorynew-zonenexonxerxeszoneFri, 01 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA Arachnaea fly-through video released]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/tera-arachnaea-fly-through-video-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/tera-arachnaea-fly-through-video-released/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/tera-arachnaea-fly-through-video-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you've got a spider, insect, or creepy-crawly complex of any kind, you might want to skip the latest TERA fly-through video from En Masse Entertainment. The clip is straight out of an arachnophobe's worst nightmare, as it takes place deep inside a huge stone cavern filled with egg sacs and giant hairy-legged spiders.

The cavern is a newly revealed zone called Arachnaea, and its denizens are apparently being conjured by evil priests aligned with the goddess Arachne in order to gather sacrificial offerings from a nearby town. The clip clocks in at a tad over one minute in length, which is plenty of time to be creeped out by the spiders and their sinister surroundings. Check out all the gory details after the cut or at PC Gamer.

Continue reading TERA Arachnaea fly-through video released

MassivelyTERA Arachnaea fly-through video released originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arachnaeaarachnecavernen-masseen-masse-entertainmentpc-gamerspidersteratera-onlinetrailerzonezone-revealThu, 17 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive screenshots of EverQuest II: Destiny of Velious revealed]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/exclusive-screenshots-of-everquest-ii-destiny-of-velious-reveal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/exclusive-screenshots-of-everquest-ii-destiny-of-velious-reveal/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/02/10/exclusive-screenshots-of-everquest-ii-destiny-of-velious-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

If you mention the word Velious to most fans of the original EverQuest, you'll instantly see their eyes light up. The original Velious expansion was a revolution for EverQuest back in 2000, so it's no surprise that EverQuest II fans are getting excited about the upcoming Destiny of Velious expansion. Sony Online Entertainment has big shoes to fill with this update, which is due to launch later this month on February 22nd. Information on the Velious content has been sparse recently, with only a few lore reveals and a trailer released in the past few months. Today, SOE has released several screenshots of new zones in the expansion, exclusive to Massively.

To put the new EQ2 screenshots into their proper contexts, SOE has provided the following lore: "This glacial tundra bears the scars of centuries of conflict and strife. Here, adventurers can find the haunted remnants of the series of battles known as the Ring War, which was fought between the dwarven race known as the Coldain, and their ancient enemy, the Kromrif. On the southern tip lies the remains of a crumbling fortress, now occupied by the savage snow orcs known as the Ry'Gorr. To the west lies the Storm Gorge, a massive valley carved from the land during the continent-cracking event known as the Upheaval. There, the noble coldain stand against the might of the fearsome and militaristic legion known as the Order of Rime, and fight to protect their beloved city of Thurgadin."

Gallery: EverQuest II Updates

MassivelyExclusive screenshots of EverQuest II: Destiny of Velious revealed originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcticdestiny-of-veliouseq2EQIIeverquestEverQuest-2everquest-iiexpansiongalleriesgalleryicescreenshotscreenshotssnowtundraveliouszoneThu, 10 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Universe unveils newest zone for flipping out and killing people]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/lego-universe-unveils-newest-zone-for-flipping-out-and-killing-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/lego-universe-unveils-newest-zone-for-flipping-out-and-killing-p/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/lego-universe-unveils-newest-zone-for-flipping-out-and-killing-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

The LEGO brand is nothing if not a universe of heterogeneity -- race cars, aquatic explorers, space police, and even Batman have long existed side-by-side. The newest kid on the metaphorical block is the just-begun Ninjago line, and it's being celebrated in LEGO Universe with the addition of the newest zone, Crux Prime. But the zone has more to offer than just a cavalcade of ninja, with brand-new gear, weapons, and decals for players to unlock as they progress through the zone's new content.

Players will be tasked with finding the long-lost Sensei Wu amid the ruins of the Ninjago Monastery to learn the powerful skill known as Spinjitzu. They'll need it, too, with Maelstrom Skeletons attempting to steal the beacon of Imagination from the tower in Crux Prime. With over 100 new missions for players to undertake and an ongoing story that promises to unfold over time, LEGO Universe players should find plenty to like about Crux Prime. Take a sneak peek at the zone in the gallery below as well as the trailer past the cut.

Gallery: LEGO Universe Crux Prime gallery

Continue reading LEGO Universe unveils newest zone for flipping out and killing people

MassivelyLEGO Universe unveils newest zone for flipping out and killing people originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crux-primegalleriesgallerygazillionlegolego-brickslego-universenetdevilnew-contentnew-gearnew-missionsnew-questsnew-zoneninjaninjaspreviewscreenshotstrailervideovideoszoneTue, 11 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Explore Faxion Online's seven deadly sins]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/explore-faxion-onlines-seven-deadly-sins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/explore-faxion-onlines-seven-deadly-sins/http://massively.joystiq.com/2011/01/11/explore-faxion-onlines-seven-deadly-sins/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Does the angel on your right shoulder take a lot of union-approved time off, so much so that you end up listening to the devil on your left shoulder more often than not? Then Faxion Online has a temptation that's right up your alley -- seven sinful zones, each revolving around one of the classic seven deadly sins.

Taking heavenly and hellish themes with a strong dose of humor, Faxion Online's world becomes a literal battleground for the soul. By taking each of the deadly sins and turning them into a zone to be fought over and conquered, Faxion has created a unique twist on the genre. If the forces of heaven take over a zone, it turns nicer, and if the forces of evil are triumphant, then there will be hell to pay.

UTV True Games' Frank Lucero says that the PvP over these areas will keep players transfixed: "These zones offer all of the competitive combat play that players desire including PVP, innovative territory control and an ability ranking system that will keep players engaged in the timeless struggle of good vs. evil."

Hit the jump to read up on Faxion's themed zones and see for yourself what your sins have wrought!

Continue reading Explore Faxion Online's seven deadly sins

MassivelyExplore Faxion Online's seven deadly sins originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angelenvyfaxionfaxion-onlinefrank-lucerogluttonygreedheavenhelllimbolustpridepvpseven-deadly-sinssinslothUTVutv-true-gameswrathzoneTue, 11 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turkeys invade Kitsu Saga, gravy and stuffing to follow]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/20/turkeys-invade-kitsu-saga-gravy-and-stuffing-to-follow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/20/turkeys-invade-kitsu-saga-gravy-and-stuffing-to-follow/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/20/turkeys-invade-kitsu-saga-gravy-and-stuffing-to-follow/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Kitsu Saga's dance card is pretty darn full this month. Following its commercial release on October 28th, the free-to-play title has rolled out a series of intriguing events, including this past week's content update, called Hostile Territory. Hostile Territory brought the level cap up to 60, introduced second-tier mastery skills, and added five dungeons and four zones.

As if that wasn't enough, a full-fledged invasion of turkeys is covering the land in Butterball fury, and nobody is safe from their wrath. In Aeria Games' own words, "Avian demons from another dimension have infiltrated a few of our dungeons seeking the flesh of those who have eaten them in the years past."

You really can't top that. Avian demons hell-bent for revenge. There should be a movie.

Players can protect the land from being (sorry) gobbled up by hunting the demons in Kitsu Saga from November 17th through December 1st. These brave turkey-slaying warriors will be rewarded with special Thanksgiving-themed items. You can read more about the Turkey Invasion at Kitsu Saga.

MassivelyTurkeys invade Kitsu Saga, gravy and stuffing to follow originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 20 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeria-gamesavian-demons-hell-bent-for-revengebutterballdungeonf2pfree-to-playhostile-territoryin-game-eventkitsukitsu-sagalevel-capthanksgivingthanksgiving-eventsturkeyturkey-invasionzoneSat, 20 Nov 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Icebound: An exclusive survey of Rift's Iron Pine Peak]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/icebound-an-exclusive-survey-of-rifts-iron-pine-peak/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/icebound-an-exclusive-survey-of-rifts-iron-pine-peak/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/icebound-an-exclusive-survey-of-rifts-iron-pine-peak/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

As we continue the countdown to Rift: Planes of Telara's beta and launch, Trion Worlds rewards our patience by expanding our view of the world. Today, Massively reveals an exclusive overview of Rift's coolest area yet: Iron Pine Peak.

If you're a fan of winter-themed zones, then you're in for a doozy! Iron Pine Peak may seem beautiful, sprinkled as it is with snow-swept vistas and scenic views down vertigo-inducing cliffs, but only the hardiest of souls will survive to appreciate it. It's a place of solitude, history, mountains, watchmen, evergreens, and one terrifying dragon encased in a prison of ice. Both factions will be converging upon this location in an effort to unravel mysteries and prevent a possible terrifying future from taking place.

Hit the jump for the official description of Iron Pike Peak, a snippet of lore, a dash of video, and several new screenshots!

Continue reading Icebound: An exclusive survey of Rift's Iron Pine Peak

MassivelyIcebound: An exclusive survey of Rift's Iron Pine Peak originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-dragonsbreakingcruciadragonexclusivefeaturedgalleryiron-pine-peakriftrift-planes-of-telarascreenshotstelaratriontrion-worldsvideowinterzonezone-revealTue, 02 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Getting down to earth with Stonefield in Rift: Planes of Telara]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/getting-down-to-earth-with-stonefield-in-rift-planes-of-telara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/getting-down-to-earth-with-stonefield-in-rift-planes-of-telara/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/getting-down-to-earth-with-stonefield-in-rift-planes-of-telara/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The team at Trion Worlds has been stepping up its game of late with Rift: Planes of Telara, showing off more and more of the gameplay and zones. The preview of the Fire Rift was appropriately dynamic, but with the most recent preview at Rift Nexus, the game shows off a more grounded region in Stonefield. An early zone for the Defiant faction, the area features battles against both titans and undead for low-level characters on their way through the leveling process.

The ancient Eth were responsible for bringing the titans to the land, using them as guards for the precious mines of the area... until the titans raised an army and engaged in a brutal war against their would-be masters. Now the titans are imprisoned within the earth, but their influence still spreads throughout the zone. It's quite possible they're behind the undead that are slowly spreading from Granite Falls, something players will have to investigate for themselves. The description alone doesn't do the zone justice, however, so click past the break for an embedded flythrough of the region. Rift: Planes of Telara doesn't yet have a solid release date, but it's shaping up nicely, especially if it continues to build upon such a solid foundation.

Continue reading Getting down to earth with Stonefield in Rift: Planes of Telara

MassivelyGetting down to earth with Stonefield in Rift: Planes of Telara originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient-creatureselementalsethflythrough-trailerloremovienew-previewpreviewriftrift-planes-of-telarastonefieldstonefield-previewtitanstriontrion-worldsundeadvideozonezone-previewzonesWed, 01 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic releases Chapter 3 zone preview]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/runes-of-magic-releases-chapter-3-zone-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/runes-of-magic-releases-chapter-3-zone-preview/http://massively.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/runes-of-magic-releases-chapter-3-zone-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Frogster, publisher of the free-to-play giant Runes of Magic, has posted some new information on their upcoming Chapter 3 release, The Elder Kingdoms, planned for May. This information was spotted on RoM's international website, but is sure to make its way to the US one soon.

"Beginning in April our players will be able to set foot on the previously forgotten continent of Zandorya and explore its first zone. And today we will be showing the first detailed glimpses into the 'Thunderhoof Hills' area and the kingdom of 'Dalanis'!"

This zone preview has some nice flavor text on the new area, some information on one of their soon to be released dungeons, and new screen shots to boot. This is just a small part of the list of features going in to Chapter 3 that players can look forward to. The Elder Kingdoms will be giving us even more new zones, difficulty settings on dungeons, new pets, a marriage system, and more. This zone preview is just a small taste of many things to come.

Runes of Magic has been steadily churning out content, since their official release last March. After a big birthday bash, the announcement at GDC has kept us all waiting for more news. Recent news of RoM adding Vivox integrated chat has kept us excited, but we are really glad to see this sneak peek of actual new content.

Gallery: Runes of Magic Chapter 3

MassivelyRunes of Magic releases Chapter 3 zone preview originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chapter-3frogsterfrogster-interactivepreviewromrunes-of-magicscreenshotsthe-elder-kingdomszoneThu, 25 Mar 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cast your vote, new content poll for Champions Online]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/cast-your-vote-new-content-poll-for-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/cast-your-vote-new-content-poll-for-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/cast-your-vote-new-content-poll-for-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The first time Cryptic held a poll for Champions Online, it related to what kind of zone players would like to see. This time, the developer is curious to find out what level ranges its players are most interested in for new content. We're aware that most players feel like the 40+ sections of the game are in need of content, and usually the late game areas tend to get the most love when it comes to content updates. Still, it never hurts to give a little love to the middle-levels, either.

As cool as this is of the developer to do, it's important to note that the poll's outcomes aren't a guarantee. This poll is merely a guide for Cryptic to use in future content decisions. Nevertheless, if you're invested in the game at all, you really want to get in on this vote while the getting is good. We're sure many of you have your own impassioned opinions on which level spreads need the most content love.

MassivelyCast your vote, new content poll for Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampionschampions-onlinecontentcrypticcryptic-studiospollvotezonezonesThu, 22 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What new zones would you like to see in Champions Online?]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/what-new-zones-would-you-like-to-see-in-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/what-new-zones-would-you-like-to-see-in-champions-online/http://massively.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/what-new-zones-would-you-like-to-see-in-champions-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,


That's the question that Cryptic is asking Champions Online players via a poll on the official website. They make it clear that this poll doesn't ensure the winner will see implementation, however. Cryptic is essentially licking their thumb and sticking it in the wind, rather than mapping exactly what the community wants to see -- which is probably the best choice.

Nevertheless, it's undoubtedly a good sign when a developer takes an active interest in what kinds of content its community is most interested in seeing. Plus, it shows us what kind of content we may be seeing in the many months of Champions Online yet to come. So, we hope those of you playing cast your vote, because more than ever before, Cryptic is listening to what you've got to say.

MassivelyWhat new zones would you like to see in Champions Online? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampionschampions-onlinecontentcrypticcryptic-studiospollpollsvotezonezonesFri, 18 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest II Game Update 52 preview includes revamp of Lavastorm]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/everquest-ii-game-update-52-preview-includes-revamp-of-lavastorm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/everquest-ii-game-update-52-preview-includes-revamp-of-lavastorm/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/everquest-ii-game-update-52-preview-includes-revamp-of-lavastorm/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Brett Scheinert, game designer on the SOE flagship product EverQuest II, has dropped into the official forums with a sort of 'New Year's Resolution'. In point of fact, it's a preview of new content coming to the game in Game Update 52! Posting with his forum name of timetraveling, Scheinert promised we'd see the following within the next few months:
  • A new instance with 9 bosses geared for two groups at a time. Over half of the bosses will be slated to drop Void Shards, the new metacurrency introduced with the Shadow Odyssey expansion. This will be endgame content balanced for characters with only the very best gear.
  • On top of that, players will also see a similar raid balanced for four groups at once.
  • Tradeskillers will be seeing another trades instance, this time based in the epic dungeon 'The Void'.
  • The classic zone Lavastorm will be seeing numerous improvements, similar to changes made to Everfrost in GU 48.
  • Among these changes, players will see brand new areas with level 80 solo content tied into an all-new Lavastorm-based faction.
  • This faction will offer numerous pieces of gear to earn, including 12 new armor sets with brand-new appearances. timetraveling makes a point to note that one of these armor sets is going to be a brand-new robe model with helm, shoulders, and legs as seperate visible pieces from the chest-part!
Coming hard on the heels of an entire new expansion with multiple new dungeons, it's interesting to see the tack the EQ2 designers are taking with this. All new endgame content to explore, with new loot/appearance rewards tying into their revamp of older content. It's a great continuation of strides they took forward in 2008, and makes it sound like 2009 will be a great year to be an EverQuest II gamer. Stay tuned to Massively after the holidays for details on this new content!

MassivelyEverQuest II Game Update 52 preview includes revamp of Lavastorm originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingeq2eq2-gu-52everquest-2everquest-iilavastormpatchsoesony-online-entertainmentzonezone-revampTue, 23 Dec 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan video interview focuses on player concerns]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/02/age-of-conan-video-interview-focuses-on-player-concerns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/02/age-of-conan-video-interview-focuses-on-player-concerns/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/08/02/age-of-conan-video-interview-focuses-on-player-concerns/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Erling Ellingson, Funcom's Product Manager for Age of Conan, recently gave a video interview with Jon Wood from MMORPG. Wood brought some tough questions to the interview regarding the problems many players are having with the game, questions that may not have simple, clear cut answers as the footage implies. Or perhaps they're just not the answers many gamers are hoping to get.

Wood's interview covered the gambit of player concerns about the game: the lack of DX 10; missing and upcoming features; and speculation about changes in mature content. Perhaps of greatest significance to the Age of Conan player base is the content drop off after level 20. On the post-20 game experience, Ellingson likened Age of Conan to being two titles in one -- a single player experience and an MMO. The introduction to the game is meant to be very detailed to draw the player into the setting, but the second part is a different experience. Some people may like the first part more than the second, he says. Also, in terms of content thinning as levels go up, he feels that this happens with most MMOs when they launch, and states that even when World of Warcraft launched, "the higher level content was relatively sparse." To remedy this, Funcom is now focused on adding higher level content, including level 80 dungeons, and Ymir's Pass -- a level 55+ zone.

Continue reading Age of Conan video interview focuses on player concerns

MassivelyAge of Conan video interview focuses on player concerns originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 02 Aug 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaoccontentdx10erling-ellingsonfantasyforumsfuncomgame-mechanicsinterviewinterviewsjon-woodmaturemature-contentmature-ratingmmorpgnew-contentpvpvideovideo-interviewzoneSat, 02 Aug 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Player vs. Everything: Pointless mini-zones]]>http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/player-vs-everything-pointless-mini-zones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/player-vs-everything-pointless-mini-zones/http://massively.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/player-vs-everything-pointless-mini-zones/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

How pointless are so-called "pointless mini-zones," really? Michael did a post the other day which examined the history of a zone in EverQuest called Surefall Glade. Hitting his links gave me a nice little walk down memory lane -- I have fond memories of Surefall, being an old-school EQ fan who cut his teeth in Qeynos Hills, back in the day. There really isn't all that much to the zone, though. It's like the article says: a cabin, a lake, an archery range, and a few hidden caves with some bears. There's nothing to do but raise your fletching skill, and nothing to kill that's worth killing. Eventually they added some stuff to it, but it was still never anything more than a small, transitional town.

Surefall was the essence of a pointless mini-zone: Most players never had any compelling reason to go there. Still, did it add something to the game with its mere presence? Like Moonglade in World of Warcraft, you could argue that it was kind of a neat place for players to discover and hang out. We get so focused on the "content" of these games that sometimes we forget that exploring a new zone you've never seen before, even if there's really nothing to do there, is content in its own right. Besides, does every single zone in our MMOGs have to be a big quest hub tied to a specific zone? Can't some places just be places?

Continue reading Player vs. Everything: Pointless mini-zones

MassivelyPlayer vs. Everything: Pointless mini-zones originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 May 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airporteverquestexploitfeaturedmoongladeplayer-vs-everythingrole-playingroleplayroleplayingsilithussurefall-gladetimbermawworld-of-warcraftzonezonesThu, 08 May 2008 09:00:00 EST