Filed under: The Secret World

Funcom Community Managers talk about upcoming projects

by Rubi Bayer Mar 10th 2010 at 9:00AM

Filed under: Fantasy, Horror, Age of Conan, Expansions, Interviews, News items, The Secret World, Pets vs Monsters

Julie and Fran of the No Prisoners, No Mercy podcast had some special guests on their most recent show, to the delight of the Funcom fans in their audience.

Funcom Community Managers Glen "Famine" Swan and Oliver Kunz visited the podcast to discuss The Secret World as well as Rise of the Godslayer, the upcoming expansion for Age of Conan. The duo talked about their responsibilities within Funcom, and gave some details about what they're working on these days.

Rise of the Godslayer, of course, is the big project. With five new regions, a new race, twelve new factions, and all the bells and whistles that go with them, Swan promised that the expansion won't disappoint fans. They also gave an overview of The Secret World as well as their other upcoming project, Pets vs. Monsters.

It sounds like a good time was had by all -- the podcast is fun and informative, and definitely worth listening to. For even more information, keep an eye out for our interview with Ragnar Tornquist at GDC later this week as well!

Interview with The Secret World's Martin Bruusgaard

by Rubi Bayer Mar 9th 2010 at 10:00AM

Filed under: Fantasy, Horror, Interviews, News items, The Secret World

Looking forward to The Secret World? Funcom has been great lately about giving us bits of information to tide us over, and the latest news is no exception. TSWOnline.de recently chatted with Martin Bruusgaard, Lead Designer for The Secret World.

Bruusgaard delved further into the game, expanding on small details we already know, such as the Lovecraftian influence of the game, and the (slowly) marauding zombies. While Lovecraft, zombies, and Kingsmouth are known elements, things don't stop there. Kingsmouth is just a tiny sample of game regions all around the world that are available to play, and zombies are just the tip of the iceberg: "We've based the population in every region on myths and urban legends in that particular country, which gives us a huge spectrum of scary monstrosities to play with."

Bruusgaard has plenty more to say, both about in-game events and some promotional things we might be able to look forward to. The full interview is well worth a read.

For more news on The Secret World, keep an eye out for our interview with Ragnar Tornquist at GDC this week as well!

Tornquist gives more juicy details on The Secret World

by Krystalle Voecks Mar 2nd 2010 at 3:00PM

Filed under: Horror, Game mechanics, Interviews, New titles, News items, The Secret World

To date, the development team of The Secret World has almost been a secret society unto itself. We've heard whispers and tantalizing tidbits that have piqued our curiosity, seen teaser sites, and caught the occasional tweet from the front lines. Now, the floodgates are starting to open, and more details are coming to light for those craving information.

An interview with Ragnar Tornquist has just gone up on IGN and it is chock-full of tasty details about what players can expect from The Secret World. Along with the interview, there's also a pile of eerie concept art illustrating some of the many different monsters we'll see in the game -- from brain-munching zombies to mutated boss monsters. There's also some great news on how the development is going, owing in part to the work already done for Age of Conan.

So if you've been hungry for more details and a sneak-peek into more of the terrible things that await us as we take steps into The Secret World, then you'll want to head over to IGN and check out the full interview. It looks like Tornquist and the team at Funcom are creating a fascinating modern-day monster of an MMO for us to enjoy.

ARG! The Secret World community uncovers hidden 'Monster Blog'

by Kyle Horner Feb 23rd 2010 at 12:00PM

Filed under: Horror, New titles, News items, The Secret World

Let us never say that Funcom doesn't know how to run a good Alternate Reality Game, or ARG. The community surrounding the upcoming modern-day MMO has discovered a personal blog named Monsters of Maine. How, you might be wondering? Through the oft-maligned Twitter, that's how. If you're willing to sift through a 50+ page thread over on The Secret World's official forums, you'll find a transcript of a the Twitter conversations between the fictional people of Kingsmouth. Yep, this community pretty much rocks.

So what's the blog all about? Well, it's run by a user named Cryptoinvestigator -- who's revealed via that Twitter convo as Tyler Freeborn, a "crazy" who believes all sorts of evil things are taking place. One of his more ominous blog posts reads, "The Pale Men will return. Not today, not tomorrow - but soon. I can FEEL them. I can smell them." Several of his other posts contain some really awesome peeks into what we can only assume are pieces of game lore and screenshots cloaked in ARG craziness.

The most recent post by Freeborn says he's got evidence to prove his claims, so we'll be keeping an eye out for that. Hmm, we can feel ourselves becoming more obsessed with this by the minute.

Building The Secret World: An interview with Ragnar Tornquist

by Rubi Bayer Feb 14th 2010 at 10:00AM

Filed under: Sci-fi, New titles, News items, The Secret World

As the buzz surrounding Funcom's upcoming title The Secret World increases, we continue to hear more from the developers in the form of things like concept art and some spooky game footage.

The latest dose of information is an interview with Funcom's Ragnar Tornquist. He spent some time with Gamasutra recently, and their interview tells all about building a cozy little corner of hell in Kingsmouth. The discussion ran the gamut from fantasy genre oversaturation to the creation of a game set in the real world.

The extensive interview is well worth a read for anyone interested not only in The Secret World, but in the thought process behind game design as well. Tornquist explores his history as a gamer and how it helped to shape the way he is creating The Secret World.

The interview covers quite a bit of ground and reveals plenty of new information about TSW. It can be found here -- enjoy!

The Secret World broadcasts footage from the streets of Kingsmouth

by Seraphina Brennan Feb 1st 2010 at 4:00PM

Filed under: At a glance, Horror, Trailers, Video, Interviews, News items, The Secret World

What horrors lie in Kingsmouth when the fog comes to rest? Well that's for you to find out!

Thanks to a tip from a certain Erling Ellingsen, we've been pointed to a brand new trailer for The Secret World. It seems that someone has hacked into the security cameras around Kingsmouth, giving us a look at the town's various areas. All of this is set to an unknown narrator explaining exactly how Kingsmouth turned from a small, All-American town into the black pit that it is today.

It's important to note, however, that this video is only a preview of the Kingsmouth location -- it's not a gameplay trailer. Erling attached this "quotable quote" in his e-mail: "This is a part of a ramp up of the communication we're doing around The Secret World. We wanted to give gamers a very quick glimpse into the game and the universe, without giving away exactly how the game looks in motion and in all its glory. We're saving that for GDC actually."

So GDC it is then! We'll be there! But, while you're all waiting for GDC, go on over to Gamespot and learn more about Kingsmouth. (Also, we saw your Lovecraft Lane street sign! We see your references!)

The Secret World revealing more secrets soon, Funcom confirms Kingsmouth connection

by Kyle Horner Jan 26th 2010 at 4:00PM

Filed under: Fantasy, Horror, New titles, News items, The Secret World

Sources have told us the Kingsmouth website is in truth connected to the enigmatic developer known as Funcom. They've also informed us that this is just the beginning of a new The Secret World initiative from the mysterious developer. In fact, those very same dark forces- er, sources, told us that you can expect to see a significant reveal happen this very weekend.

We asked Funcom's Erling Elingson for a comment on these shadowy happenings, "The recent release of the Kingsmouth website is just one of many unique initiatives that will be happening around The Secret World in the next few weeks. Not only are we teaming up with a major site this weekend to give gamers a unique glimpse into the game through new and never-before-seen footage, but there are also other secrets lurking under the surface waiting to be discovered. The ever-growing community surrounding The Secret World did a great job deciphering the clues that led to the discovery of the Kingsmouth website, and they will have plenty more to play around with in the next few weeks!"

Success! Our dark lord's ancient powers worked wonders. Wait, we mean uh, our highly charismatic and soothingly baritone voice made them talk, yes. So, you'll want to keep a lookout this weekend TSW fans, and don't stop investigating for clues. If you did, the all-knowing master would be very upset...

All hail the Kingsmouth Horror: The Secret World pays homage to Lovecraft

by Seraphina Brennan Jan 25th 2010 at 2:30PM

Filed under: Horror, Culture, News items, The Secret World

For a while now, the community over at The Secret World has noticed things in the game that are distinctly influenced by the writings of horror master H.P. Lovecraft. From the original poster that revealed a beast that reminded many of Cthulhu to the whole idea of secret societies and monsters that exist beyond time and space. So when The Secret World community members stumbled upon a website for the fictional town of Kingsmouth, many weren't surprised.

Kingsmouth, a mash-up of Lovecraft's Kingsport and Innsmouth (and, to an unnamed extent, Arkham), is the typical New England town that Lovecraft so loved to talk about. It's sleepy, it's quiet, it's community is entrenched, and there are probably more monsters than people. Lovecraftian references are abound from the aptly named Miskatonic River (see Miskatonic University) to the town's presence as a port on the coastline.

Of course, with the addition of a brand new website, new puzzles are bound to pop up. The Secret World community is already pouring over the website, so jump into the discussion if you think you found something. Of course, for those of you who aren't into the whole conspiracy angle, we got the screenshots of Kingsmouth for you below. Beware though, the originals are small, as apparently the Kingsmouth locals don't know how to upload quality pictures.

Gallery: The Secret World

Funcom Games Canada hires new CEO and plans to expand

by Eliot Lefebvre Jan 8th 2010 at 10:00AM

Filed under: MMO industry, News items, The Secret World

2009 wasn't the best year to be in the business of making games, to the point where some of us weren't expecting good news like a major publisher hiring new people -- but it's happening. And it's not a small hiring push, either, aiming in the 100-150 range. That's the latest news from Funcom, whose recently opened Canadian studio has appointed a new CEO for the division.

Miguel Caron is going to be in charge of building up the staff of Funcom Games Canada, as well as overseeing the studio during the development of The Secret World -- according to Ragnar Tornquist, the Montreal-based expansion will play a key role in the game's development. Even if you aren't looking forward to The Secret World, however, it's excellent to have news of a company not facing security trouble, layoffs, or shutdowns.

Although the timeframe for the expected hirings is a year and a half, that's still a lot of work being generated by Funcom, which is a boon to both their existing games and their newfound plans of focusing on the casual gaming market. Let's hope this kicks off a trend of more positive news for the industry this year. We certainly need it.

Funcom begins 2010 with new concept art

by Rubi Bayer Jan 4th 2010 at 9:00AM

Filed under: Fantasy, Age of Conan, Expansions, New titles, The Secret World

Funcom's concept artists have been letting their imaginations run wild again. After the last round of concept art was released for Rise of the Godslayer and The Secret World, fans had a good time speculating about what they were looking at, and now it's that time again.

Funcom has released Creepy Concept Art 2.0 via Facebook, and fan speculation is even more enthusiastic and varied than it was for the last round. The first piece of concept art is for The Secret World, and features a very small, very angry totem or pendant of some sort (It's tiny - check the size reference figure in the corner). The second new item is from the upcoming Age of Conan expansion Rise of the Godslayer, and garnered nearly as much interest as the other, with thoughts of Wookiees, Bear Shaman, and Picts from commenters.

You can take a look for yourself on Facebook, and join us in our thanks to Funcom and their concept artists for the new eye candy!

Funcom gives us some AoC and TSW concept art for the holidays

by Krystalle Voecks Dec 27th 2009 at 4:00PM

Filed under: Age of Conan, Expansions, New titles, News items, The Secret World

Remember how we told you the other day that Funcom was looking for more friends on Twitter and Facebook? Well, it appears that they've decided to sweeten the deal from just the initial contest offering. Sure, you can win all kinds of goodies as we mentioned, but if you do wind up following, you'll find that Funcom is using these feeds to offer up tasty little concept art sneak peeks of The Secret World and the Rise of the Godslayer expansion for Age of Conan.

Currently out on their Facebook gallery are two pieces of Age of Conan art depicting the above scene and a Scholar of Cheng Ho. Both of these images show the strong Eastern art style for Godslayer that many find intriguing. As for The Secret World previews, there are two pieces as well. One appears to be a character sketch of a young man - perhaps an NPC that will help us move the story along. The second, much more haunting image, is a picture of a slavering six-armed demon wielding a blood-covered trio of tanto, wakizashi, and katana mounted to a pole. Definitely not the kind of thing you want to run into -- secret society to help you or not! Be sure to pop by and take a look at the concept art that Funcom have posted - and consider adding them to your page so you'll know when they post more!

More on The Secret World's Templar and Illuminati

by Kyle Horner Dec 21st 2009 at 10:00AM

Filed under: Interviews, New titles, News items, The Secret World

Looking for further information on The Secret World's equally secret Illuminati and Templar societies? We're going to go ahead and assume that you are, as they're quite interesting aspects of Funcom's upcoming third MMO. Actually, considering much of the game's story and conflict revolves around the three warring secret societies, we'd say these two Illuminati and Templar interviews are required reading for anyone who considers themselves interested in the game.

We're all about picking sides in MMOs here at Massively. When it comes to The Secret World, there's a lot to consider, although something about the Illuminati is quite alluring. We're of the opinion that their high tech nature combined with their fashion sensibilities is going to be quite attractive to many a person. Oh, plus it doesn't hurt that they're the "bad boys" of the game.

Gallery: The Secret World Art

Funcom offers prizes for friends and followers

by Krystalle Voecks Dec 19th 2009 at 8:00PM

Filed under: Fantasy, Sci-fi, Age of Conan, Anarchy Online, Contests, The Secret World

Tis the season for getting cool things -- and for making new friends. Funcom obviously agrees, as they've got a contest going where they'll be giving away some pretty nice prizes for people who become friends, fans, or followers on their various Facebook and Twitter accounts. The idea is pretty simple: for every one of the Funcom accounts you link up with, you'll be entered in the drawing for prizes. So, with two accounts each for Age of Conan, Anarchy Online The Secret World, as well as for Funcom in general, there are 8 different ways you could land some sweet swag.

Among the prizes for this giveaway are free game time; beta access to Age of Conan's next expansion, Rise of the Godslayer; a guaranteed spot in hotly anticipated The Secret World beta test; in-game items for Age of Conan and Anarchy Online; and "much, much more" according to their information. With Rhode Island and Florida excluded from the ranks (that pesky "must buy a bond for your prizes" thing we're sure) most everyone else can enter for a chance to score some sweet Funcom goodies. If you're looking for where exactly to link up your accounts, they've even listed the links on the Age of Conan site, making the clicky-clicky that much easier. Just make sure you've joined up before January 4th, 2010 when the contest ends. Good luck!

Demystifying The Secret World's enigmatic Dragon

by Kyle Horner Dec 17th 2009 at 3:00PM

Filed under: Interviews, New titles, News items, The Secret World

There's definitely a certain type of player the enigmatic Dragon secret society will appeal to in The Secret World. We can say that with even greater confidence after reading Gamespot's Dragon-focused interview with Funcom's Ragnar Tornquist. They're masters of the subtle and maestros of manipulation -- also, they carry katanas and guns.

The interview runs the gamut topic-wise, but many of the answers coming from Ragnar are still incredibly careful to avoid any and all spoilers. Nevertheless, there's still much to be gleaned from regarding what these guys are about and how playing them is going to be different from the other two factions within The Secret World. Our favorite nugget of new information? Lighting your katana on fire being confirmed as an in-game feature. There really isn't anything quite as satisfying as splitting a foul monster in twain with a burning chopping blade of death!

Gallery: The Secret World Art

Subscribe to Age of Conan and receive The Secret World beta access

by Brooke Pilley Nov 11th 2009 at 1:00PM

Filed under: Fantasy, Horror, Age of Conan, News items, The Secret World

Funcom recently announced their plans to get older players back into Age of Conan and boost multi-month subscription rates. Players with inactive subscriptions are invited to retry the game for two weeks and receive a double experience bonus. Those who sign up for multi-month subscriptions will receive these additional bonuses:

3-month sub: Beta access to The Secret World
6-month sub: Beta access + in-game helmet that boosts experience gain by 10%
12-month sub: Beta access + helmet + a free copy of Conan expansion Rise of the Godslayer

Age of Conan has received many updates in the year and a half since its release. However, MMO players can be an unforgiving bunch, so these incentives to give the game another shot are quite necessary. And it's extra-smart given all the excitement around The Secret World. Considering how many players would be willing to pay for beta access, a subscription to a vastly improved AoC is just icing on the cake.

For those interested in catching up on AoC, check out the most recent game director's letter, new content, and revised subscription options. Have a burning question for Funcom about this or anything else? Ask it here.

Having fun in Conan's homeland? Make sure to check out all of our previous Age of Conan coverage, and stick with Massively for more news from the Hyborian Age!