Massively http://www.massively.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.massively.com/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://www.massively.com prods@weblogsinc.com (Weblogs, Inc. Producers) support@weblogsinc.com (Weblogs, Inc. Web Support) en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. View our terms of service here: http://www.weblogsinc.com/feed-terms/ Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ <![CDATA[Aion's community address for November]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/aions-community-address-for-november/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/aions-community-address-for-november/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/aions-community-address-for-november/#comments The November community address for Aion is out, and it's mostly good news.

The good news, of course, includes the stunning nine-minute trailer depicting the future of Aion. Player response was overwhelmingly positive, and netted NCsoft more than a few immediate resubs. The Community Team has also been doing a good amount of work that, while not quite as fun to look at as the trailer, brings results that players can't help but be just as happy about. The Aion team has set up a dedicated Game Surveillance Unit focused solely on taking out bots, gold spammers, and the like. (It seems to be working so far, a recent Tweet reports over 27,000 botting accounts banned this week.) The community address also mentioned the ubiquitous grind complaints. Some short-term changes to grind, loot, and risk vs. reward are on the way, and a more long-term solution seems to be in the works.

On the downside, the server transfer system has been delayed until the Community Team can be sure of releasing a solid finished product. It's a frustrating issue for players, but hopefully the delay will be worth it.

The full community address can be read here.

Filed under: , , ,

Aion's community address for November originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> aionbotcommunity-addressgold-spammerncsofttrailer Rubi Bayer Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Real World Heroes gives titles for charity in City of Heroes]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/real-world-heroes-gives-titles-for-charity-in-city-of-heroes/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/real-world-heroes-gives-titles-for-charity-in-city-of-heroes/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/real-world-heroes-gives-titles-for-charity-in-city-of-heroes/#comments It's trite and cliche, but also true -- the holidays are the optimal time to stop and remember that there are people less fortunate than you in the world. Charity drives step up in frequency and everyone looks for the spirit of the holiday, of giving gifts out of kindness and hope that others can share in your good fortune. That being said, it can help give an incentive for everyone if there's something more to be had than simply the warm fuzzy feeling. Real World Hero, a player-run charity drive, has teamed up with the community team in City of Heroes to provide a little extra incentive for players of the game to step up and do something super.

Running between November 30th and December 24th, players who include their character information when they donate will be eligible for a limited-time special gold title for their character, marking them as a generous soul. The event is not being officially sponsored by the company, but the support is certainly added incentive to take part. With Operation Gratitude, Donate Games, and the ever-popular Child's Play as the designated recipients, it's a good time for City of Heroes players to be a bit more heroic in their day-to-day lives and be known for it in-game to boot.

Filed under: , , , , ,

Real World Heroes gives titles for charity in City of Heroes originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> charitycharity-drivechilds-playcity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdonate-gamesdonationdonationsncsoftoperation-gratitudereal-lifereal-world-eventsreal-world-hero Eliot Lefebvre Thu, 26 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Order Fallen Earth via Steam and improve your attire]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/order-fallen-earth-via-steam-and-improve-your-attire/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/order-fallen-earth-via-steam-and-improve-your-attire/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/order-fallen-earth-via-steam-and-improve-your-attire/#comments Just because the world has come to an end and society is left to scramble around in the ruins doesn't mean you can't look dashing in the process. Fallen Earth has been on a bit of a kick lately of giving away clothing to purchasers of the game, starting with an astonishingly fetching hat, and now extending via the popular digital service Steam. Until December 3rd, those who purchase the game via Steam will receive a voucher good for a special t-shirt representing one of the game's factions -- CHOTA, Enforcers, Lightbearers, Techs, Travelers or Vistas.

Each shirt qualifies as a piece of level 10 armor, with other stats that are appropriate to the faction in question. (Expect the Techs shirt to offer bonuses to crafting rather than combat bonuses, for example.) The vouchers can be turned in at any time, and should the player later decide they'd prefer to represent someone else, a shirt may be turned in and exchanged for another shirt as well. It's nothing game-breaking, but yet another added incentive to pick up Fallen Earth and see what all the fuss is about. Still not quite as good-looking as the hat, of course, but you have to draw the line somewhere.

Filed under: , ,

Order Fallen Earth via Steam and improve your attire originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> bonusbonusesdigital-distributionfallen-earthfallen-earth-llcfehatnews-itemsshirtsteam Eliot Lefebvre Thu, 26 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Anti-Aliased: Boobs and you]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/anti-aliased-boobs-and-you/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/anti-aliased-boobs-and-you/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/anti-aliased-boobs-and-you/#comments
Well Happy Turkey Day everyone! It's Thanksgiving Thursday, but it's also that time of the week again -- the time where Sera gets to rant in her opinion column to her heart's content. Yes, that's right, it's time for Anti-Aliased.

This week's topic is one that's near and dear to my heart. Well, it's near to my heart, at least, and I mean that quite literally. It's also a perfect topic for today's holiday! I mean, who doesn't like to talk about large breasts on Thanksgiving? (Score one for the terrible synonym.)

During last week's column on Blade & Soul, the main topic that came up time and time again in the comments wasn't the game's combat, or the game's engine, or anything really related to the game at large. No, it seems that many of you were turned off of the game by the fact that the screenshot I used had a woman with huge boobs. That was the deal breaker for the game.

Continue reading Anti-Aliased: Boobs and you

Filed under: , , ,

Anti-Aliased: Boobs and you originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> anti-aliasedblade-and-soulboobsfeaturedfemalegendermaleopinionperceptionswomenworld-of-warcraft Seraphina Brennan Thu, 26 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[One Shots: Tyger tyger burning bright]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/one-shots-tyger-tyger-burning-bright/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/one-shots-tyger-tyger-burning-bright/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/one-shots-tyger-tyger-burning-bright/#comments
While we're not quite sure what to make of this mount with the lion's head, antlers and odd electrical charges seeming to jump off its body, we can say it's a fairly pretty beastie - and it matches her outfit too. Add in a cliff overlooking the water with the purple mountains off in the snowy distance and you've got a nifty Runes of Magic screenshot. This picture postcard comes from Aetheress, who writes:This is my first time sending in a screenshot and I thought this was cool. I started playing Runes of Magic and it is incredibly enjoyable. This is a screenshot of me on a cliff in Ystra Highlands with an awesome costume, mount, and wings.

We love to see screens from MMOs both big and small, but we need you to send them in! It's really easy to do - just drop an email to oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name and a quick description. We'll post it out here for everyone to check out, and give you the credit.

Gallery: One Shots

Filed under: , , , ,

One Shots: Tyger tyger burning bright originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> aetheressfrogster-interactiveone-shotsromrunes-of-magicrunewaker-entertainmentscreenshotscreenshots Krystalle Voecks Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Black Prophecy dev diary gives peek at game's physics]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/black-prophecy-dev-diary-gives-peek-at-games-physics/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/black-prophecy-dev-diary-gives-peek-at-games-physics/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/black-prophecy-dev-diary-gives-peek-at-games-physics/#comments
Now that the sci-fi MMO Black Prophecy is free to keep moving forward, the game's developer Reakktor Media is revealing more about the title. Recent dev diaries focused on Black Prophecy's art direction but now Technical Director Cyrus Preuss is kicking off a short series on the game's physics. The physics in any game can be important, perhaps moreso in a space-based MMO where players can move about in any direction and potentially interact (and collide) with many other ships in a single area.

Cyrus boils a complex subject down to some easily understood explanations of how game physics work in the first installment, and will explore more on the topic in the coming weeks. He writes, "But you don't need to be afraid that I will confront you with highly complex equations or formulas. With this diary I also want to provide a look behind the scenes to those who didn't take the advanced physics or mathematics courses in school."

Fans of Black Prophecy or those curious about the underlying game physics in an MMO can follow along with Cyrus' dev diary on the official game site.

Filed under: , , ,

Black Prophecy dev diary gives peek at game's physics originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> black-prophecycyrus-preussdev-blogdev-diarygame-mechanicsnew-titlesphysicsreakktor-mediasci-fitechnical-director James Egan Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Massively's Black Friday MMO sales guide]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/massivelys-black-friday-mmo-sales-guide/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/massivelys-black-friday-mmo-sales-guide/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/massivelys-black-friday-mmo-sales-guide/#comments The holidays are officially here (if you're a retail chain, then they've been here for about a month) and so it's time to start looking for deals to give to either your MMO-playing loved ones or, well, yourself! Shopping can be a pretty big hassle, especially if you're not accustomed to hunting for the best deals. So, we've gone and outlined the season's new releases, as well as some places you can hope to find sales in the coming weeks.

Continue reading Massively's Black Friday MMO sales guide

Filed under: ,

Massively's Black Friday MMO sales guide originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> amazonarenanetccpd2ddirect2drivedominioneve-onlinefeaturedguild-warslotroncsoftnexonnexon-americasalessiege-of-mirkwoodsteamthanksgivingturbinevalve Kyle Horner Thu, 26 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Thanksgiving eating binge edition]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/the-daily-grind-thanksgiving-eating-binge-edition/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/the-daily-grind-thanksgiving-eating-binge-edition/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/26/the-daily-grind-thanksgiving-eating-binge-edition/#comments
Everyone during Thanksgiving Day asks you what you're thankful for. It's a logical if somewhat bland question, given the nature of the holiday. But today, we here at Massively would like to celebrate something equally integral to the holiday -- stuffing yourself until you can no longer move under your own power. Today, we want to know what game you're going to be gorging yourself on today and with any further time off you get in the near future -- what you're going to just play until your eyes roll back in your head.

Really, what better way to celebrate a holiday where our biggest tradition is eating in excess? Perhaps you're going to enjoy some Allods Online in the closed beta, being lucky enough to be in the beta and enjoy a game that's getting some good press thus far. Maybe you'd prefer to wander the wastes of Fallen Earth and take in a full helping of niche gameplay and deep systems. Or perhaps you're just taking a spin through an old favorite like EVE Online and taking comfort in the familiar. When you have the time, what game are you devouring?

Filed under: , , , ,

The Daily Grind: Thanksgiving eating binge edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> allodsallods-onlinecultureeveeve-onlinefallen-earthfehumoropiniontdgthanksgiving-2009the-daily-grind Eliot Lefebvre Thu, 26 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online developer diary revisits the Lone-lands]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/lord-of-the-rings-online-developer-diary-revisits-the-lone-lands/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/lord-of-the-rings-online-developer-diary-revisits-the-lone-lands/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/lord-of-the-rings-online-developer-diary-revisits-the-lone-lands/#comments The latest developer diary entry is from Lord of the Rings Online Senior Designer Allan "Orion" Maki, and takes us back to a very familiar area: The Lone-lands. While the region seems like a low-level walk in the park to the majority of players these days, Maki had always felt that there was a bit of a "disconnect" and that players were being sent to an area far above their level. The Lone-lands have been given what he describes as a "massive overhaul", bringing them more in line with low and mid level players abilities.

Players will find changes such as a solo version of Weather Top, a new horse travel mount to make the initial trip to the Forsaken Inn less dangerous, and some new faction and quest systems. Those, however, are just the beginning. With Siege of Mirkwood only days away, players eager to explore the expansion will find their path in the earlier areas considerably smoother.

The full entry is worth looking at, as it contains four pages of great information on the overhaul -- it's a valuable resource for anyone still hanging out around Ost Guruth.

Filed under: , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online developer diary revisits the Lone-lands originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> allan-makiallan-orion-makideveloper-diarylone-landslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrosiege-of-mirkwoodturbine Rubi Bayer Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Alganon's State of the Game address]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/alganons-state-of-the-game-address/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/alganons-state-of-the-game-address/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/alganons-state-of-the-game-address/#comments
Alganon is scheduled for launch in less than a week, and has already released its first State of the Game address.

The first piece of information is good news: they are set for the December 1st launch with no delays in sight. The Alganon team has been working hard lately, taking the servers down more frequently to patch and update, which should help to minimize problems at launch. The address did mention the postponement of the original launch date, citing a desire for the most polished game possible -- reasoning that we can certainly support.

The address sent out a big thank you to the Alganon community and beta testers, expressing appreciation for their enthusiasm in expressing feedback, opinions and suggestions, both in game and on the forums. Alganon didn't hesitate to tackle the tougher questions either, specifically those dealing with a rocky ride for beta testers, and the oft-asked question "Why does this game look so much like WoW?"

The full address can be viewed at the official site, and we wish Alganon the best of luck on next week's launch.

Filed under: , , ,

Alganon's State of the Game address originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> alganonbetalaunchquest-onlineState-of-the-game Rubi Bayer Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Space combat! Star Trek Online community Q&A answers]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/space-combat-star-trek-online-community-qanda-answers/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/space-combat-star-trek-online-community-qanda-answers/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/space-combat-star-trek-online-community-qanda-answers/#comments It's a little late due to the impending Thanksgiving day gorging, but we've got your second wave of community answers for space combat in Star Trek Online! As this week lands us on a holiday, we'll be putting up the next post for your third wave of questions on Monday, November 30th. For now, we hope you enjoy the answers given by Al Rivera, senior game designer on Star Trek Online.

Continue reading Space combat! Star Trek Online community Q&A answers

Filed under: , , , ,

Space combat! Star Trek Online community Q&A answers originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> al-riveraatariborgbridge-officerscombatcommunity-qnacrypticcryptic-studiosds9featuredklingonklingonsqnaspace-combatstar-trekstar-trek-onlinestowrath-of-khan Kyle Horner Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Choose my Adventure: Sorrowdusk Isle]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/choose-my-adventure-sorrowdusk-isle/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/choose-my-adventure-sorrowdusk-isle/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/choose-my-adventure-sorrowdusk-isle/#comments
Join me as I brave my way through lands unknown in an adventure dictated entirely by you, the Massively readers! Vote for everything from game played to character creation to ultimate goal and watch it unfold in a series of journals and galleries here on the site. Then, as our two months is up, we'll do it all over again in a new game!

With a new Adventure Pack to explore, the Critical Mass guild faced their newest challenge head-on. Your votes last week chose the Sorrowdusk Isle Adventure Pack (400 Turbine Points) for us, and in this installment of Choose my Adventure, I'm happy to report back on my impressions.

Follow along after the jump for those impressions, Fahryn Brygo's in-character journal, another poll for next week and more!

Continue reading Choose my Adventure: Sorrowdusk Isle

Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Choose my Adventure: Sorrowdusk Isle originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> choose-my-adventureddofeaturedin-characterturbine Shawn Schuster Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Massively's Thanksgiving 2009 MMO wrapup]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/massivelys-thanksgiving-2009-mmo-wrapup/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/massivelys-thanksgiving-2009-mmo-wrapup/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/massivelys-thanksgiving-2009-mmo-wrapup/#comments It's that time of year again -- Thanksgiving is tomorrow and all things turkey related have invaded the MMO world: hunting turkeys, eating turkeys, exchanging turkey parts for rewards, wielding turkey weapons, and even wearing turkeys on your head. Sending yourself into a tryptophan coma isn't the only thing to do, though. You'll find some non-turkey related PvP here and there, opportunities to spread Thanksgiving blessings, and even some new content. And of course, Thanksgiving bonuses, treats, and souvenirs are everywhere. Follow along after the jump for a look at what's going on for Thanksgiving.

Continue reading Massively's Thanksgiving 2009 MMO wrapup

Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Massively's Thanksgiving 2009 MMO wrapup originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> champions-onlinecombat-armsdragonica-onlinedungeons-and-dragons-onlineearth-eternaleverquestfeaturedfusionfallguild-warsIGGLegends-of-Norrathmyth-war-IIthanksgiving-2009voyage-century Rubi Bayer Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Allods Online enters second closed beta, and we have keys for you!]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/allods-online-enters-second-closed-beta-and-we-have-keys-for-yo/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/allods-online-enters-second-closed-beta-and-we-have-keys-for-yo/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/allods-online-enters-second-closed-beta-and-we-have-keys-for-yo/#comments Looking for something else to be thankful for this holiday weekend (in the US)? Allods Online is set to enter its second closed beta stage of testing for North American players on December 1st at 2pm EST, and we have 2,000 keys to give out to the Massively readers. To grab your own key, head on over to our giveaway page and follow the directions posted there.

This closed beta stage will run from December 1st through the 15th and feature six new zones: two new zones for the League, three new zones for the Empire, plus an exclusive zone only available to the Warden archetype. There will also be a new diverse set of enemies (Massive Drakes, Harpies, Scorpions, and Arctic Yetis), and an increased level cap to Level 20. Also be sure to check out our First Impressions video on the game to see what we thought about it in this early stage.

[Reminder: This stage of beta won't start until December 1st, so hold onto your keys until then!]

Filed under: , , , , , ,

Allods Online enters second closed beta, and we have keys for you! originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> allods-onlinebeta-keybeta-key-giveawayclosed-betafree-to-playgiveawaygpotato Shawn Schuster Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[New EVE Online trailer shows the glory of Dominion]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/new-eve-online-trailer-shows-the-glory-of-dominion/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/new-eve-online-trailer-shows-the-glory-of-dominion/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/new-eve-online-trailer-shows-the-glory-of-dominion/#comments In just a matter of days -- December 1st to be exact -- Dominion will be launching, bringing an early holiday gift for EVE Online players around the world. For those not familiar, Dominion, the 12th free expansion in CCP's ever-evolving interstellar game of life, will bring enormous changes to the sovereignty system and ship re-balancing -- aspects of what many consider EVE Online's "endgame." Along with the change to sov, pilots in New Eden can look forward to Pirate faction epic story-arcs, a fleet finder, refinement to the new player experience, and even long-needed but less obvious tweaks like an improved mail system and in-game browser.

Of course, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention that CCP are also increasing the beauty of New Eden once again by introducing new procedurally-generated planet textures -- a welcome addition for those who may not spend all their time in 0.0. After all, while the huge battles are awesome to watch, empires can be toppled by one person quietly flying around, minding their own business -- and yours. Be sure to check out the full Dominion site for all the juicy details of what's to come on the first. Alternately, if you just like enormous space battles made of 100% unadulterated ass-kicking awesome, then check behind the break for the new Dominion trailer. You won't be disappointed!

Continue reading New EVE Online trailer shows the glory of Dominion

Filed under: , , ,

New EVE Online trailer shows the glory of Dominion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> breakingccpccp-gamesdominionepic-story-arcseveeve-onlineexpansionpirate-factionsovsovereign-spacevideo Krystalle Voecks Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[One Shots: Everybody (no) pants now]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/one-shots-everybody-no-pants-now/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/one-shots-everybody-no-pants-now/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/one-shots-everybody-no-pants-now/#comments When we opened up this email originally, we wondered what would cause so many heroes to strip down to their undies. Then when we read it was part of a party being held by the StormRadio crew from Champions Online, we understood. Those crazy radio people seem to inspire naked wherever they go. Today's scantily-clad screenshot of event fun comes to us from The Gentleman, who DJs with StormRadio. He writes in to tell us a bit more: This is a picture from our latest theme show event, with DJ Distraction's Drama Free Debauchery! Everyone was in their skivvies for the event. Although cold, we had a great time, and I think everyone who was there did too.

Calling all people enjoying holiday or role-play events -- we want your screenshots! So send your snaps in to us at oneshots AT massively DOT com along with your name/group/game and a quick description of what we're seeing in the image. That way everyone can check out what's so cool about your favorite game's holiday events -- or rp community -- too!

Gallery: One Shots

Filed under: , , ,

One Shots: Everybody (no) pants now originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> atarichampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-studiosone-shotsscreenshotscreenshotsthe-gentleman Krystalle Voecks Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[CloudNine open beta starts today]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/cloudnine-open-beta-starts-today/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/cloudnine-open-beta-starts-today/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/cloudnine-open-beta-starts-today/#comments Looking for a new game to pass the hours while pre-cooking all the treats for your Thanksgiving feast? Perhaps you're just looking for a shiny new free-to-play title to check out since you're saving your pennies for Christmas. If you're all about the fantasy genre and dig the idea of special monster systems like Monster Card collection, Monster Taming/Riding, and some mysterious thing they call the "Monster Transformation system" then this may well be a game worth checking out. CloudNine, the MMO that touts all these monstrous new ideas, is entering open beta today.

NETGAME, the US distributor of this MGame MMO describe the world as being "based on the conflicts between two nations; Primus Union who fights for loyalty and Ganav Libero who fights for freedom." Also, they note that they'll be starting with a wide range of in-game events and items beginning November 25th, which sounds promising for those of us who love live beta events. So if the idea of spending all day tomorrow staring at Great Aunt Bertha over a plate of dry turkey and gelatinous can-shaped cranberry sauce doesn't appeal, then get your client download started and head over to the CloudNine site to sign up.

Filed under: , , ,

CloudNine open beta starts today originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> betacloudninef2pfree-to-playimportmgamemonster-card-collectionmonster-ridingmonster-tamingmonster-transformationnetgameopen-beta Krystalle Voecks Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Thanksgiving surprise: Four free days in Champions Online]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/thanksgiving-surprise-four-free-days-in-champions-online/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/thanksgiving-surprise-four-free-days-in-champions-online/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/thanksgiving-surprise-four-free-days-in-champions-online/#comments This ain't no ordinary free weekend. Cryptic is offering a full four days worth of free time in Champions Online starting Thanksgiving day at 10am PST -- or Thursday, November 26th to the American holiday challenged. The free time will go on until the following Monday and end at precisely 10am PST. The timing isn't too surprising, as returning players will be able to check out the recent Nemesis Confrontation update that went live just yesterday.

Hopefully things go much more smoothly than the last time there was a free weekend. Although, we're curious as to who'll be watching the servers on Thursday. We expect a vast majority of people to be lined with food and edging on the precipice of nap time. Maybe Cryptic is employing robots or Canadians to run their servers for a day. Unless... unless they're the same thing...

Filed under: , ,

Thanksgiving surprise: Four free days in Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> atarichampionschampions-onlinecrypticcryptic-studiosfree-weekendnemesis-confrontationthanksgiving Kyle Horner Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Second annual Linden Prize announced]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/second-annual-linden-prize-announced/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/second-annual-linden-prize-announced/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/second-annual-linden-prize-announced/#comments Linden Lab has announced that applications have opened for the 2010 Linden Prize, and submissions will be taken until 15 January 2010. The Linden Prize is awarded for Second Life projects that improve the way people work, learn and communicate in their daily lives outside of the virtual world. This annual award is intended to align with Linden Lab's company mission, which is to connect all people to an online world that advances the human condition.

There are a couple of changes this year, one being that the $10,000USD prize will be definitely be paid in US Dollars, not in Linden Dollars, "with the aim of giving the winner some more options in the rough real world economy" according to a spokesperson for Linden Lab.

Continue reading Second annual Linden Prize announced

Filed under: , , , ,

Second annual Linden Prize announced originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> contestsculturelinden-dollarslinden-lablinden-prizesecond-lifevirtual-worlds Tateru Nino Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 78: An interview with Jeffrey Steefel]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/massively-speaking-episode-78-an-interview-with-jeffrey-steefel/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/massively-speaking-episode-78-an-interview-with-jeffrey-steefel/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/massively-speaking-episode-78-an-interview-with-jeffrey-steefel/#comments Massively Speaking Episode 78 is back with Rubi, Shawn and special guest Jeffrey Steefel, executive producer for Lord of the Rings Online. They talk about Siege of Mirkwood, LotRO's future, Jeffrey's past and much more!

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot us an email to podcast AT massively DOT com. Maybe we'll read your letter on the air!

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
[Zune] Subscribe to Massively Speaking via the Zune service.
[RSS] Add Massively Speaking to your RSS aggregator.
[Digg] Like the show? Digg it.
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly.
[VW] Listen at VirginWorlds.com
Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 78: An interview with Jeffrey Steefel

Filed under: , , ,

Massively Speaking Episode 78: An interview with Jeffrey Steefel originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> Shawn Schuster Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST Massively Massively Speaking Episode 78 Massively.com Staff 40:06 podcasts <![CDATA[Final Fantasy XI plays the moogle lottery]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/final-fantasy-xi-plays-the-moogle-lottery/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/final-fantasy-xi-plays-the-moogle-lottery/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/final-fantasy-xi-plays-the-moogle-lottery/#comments
1-2-3-4-5 might not be the combination on your luggage, but it could fetch you a tidy sum of gil or some rare items in Final Fantasy XI in the near future. The third iteration of the Mog Bonanza event is incoming, and those five digits might be the key to riches. Or to irritation at having thrown money away on a ridiculous gamble. Starting on December 24th, all characters who have been in existence for at least 45 days may purchase a Mog Bonanza marble, which then is inscribed with five digits of the player's choice. On January 29th, 2010, a set of winning numbers will be chosen.

Of course, you might argue that your odds of getting exactly the right five numbers are rather low (1 in 100,000 or so), which is true. But luckily for everyone involved, it's easier to win than matching the whole number. The best prizes go to those who match all five numbers, but even if just the last digit of your chosen numbers match the picked numbers, you win a reward. Your odds of that are about 1 in 10, which isn't a bad deal. For the full rules and the details of the rewards, take a look at the official page, and start dreaming of high-powered artifacts and buckets of gil in Final Fantasy XI. (We recommend 8-1-5-1-6, if you're so inclined.)

Filed under: , , , , ,

Final Fantasy XI plays the moogle lottery originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> contestsffxifinal-fantasy-xiin-game-eventslotterymog-bonanzanews-itemsprizes Eliot Lefebvre Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[SOE offering a 25% boost in Station Cash this week]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/soe-offering-a-25-boost-in-station-cash-this-week/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/soe-offering-a-25-boost-in-station-cash-this-week/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/soe-offering-a-25-boost-in-station-cash-this-week/#comments If you play EverQuest, EverQuest II or Free Realms and happen upon a Station Cash card this week, you may want to considering picking one or two up. Sony Online Entertainment will be giving players with accounts in good standing a 25% boost to any Station Cash card they redeem between Monday, November 23 (after 10:00am PST) and Sunday, November 29th (before 10:00pm PST).

A pretty good offer if we do say so ourselves. In fact, we kind of wish we knew that for our second episode ReSubbed this week, as we could've mentioned it during our jaunty exploration of EverQuest's trial zone. Oh well, at least you know now!

Filed under: , , ,

SOE offering a 25% boost in Station Cash this week originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> eqeq-2everquesteverquest-2free-realmssoesony-online-entertainmentstation-cashthanksgivingthanksgiving-2009 Kyle Horner Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: I've been meaning to tell you...]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/the-daily-grind-ive-been-meaning-to-tell-you/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/the-daily-grind-ive-been-meaning-to-tell-you/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/25/the-daily-grind-ive-been-meaning-to-tell-you/#comments
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day if you're in the United States, which makes it special. (If you live in the rest of the world, tomorrow is Thursday and not particularly special, but bear with us.) It's the start of a season devoted to good feelings and positive thoughts, as well as voracious consumerism, so it's best to start things off on the right foot. Start off by clearing the air and getting everything off your chest, out into the open. Today, we're asking you: what level is your blood elf paladin?

Okay, that sort of question usually goes onto our sister site, but the message is there. What are your MMO secrets? Do you secretly adore Champions Online but don't tell your friends on City of Heroes because you're afraid of their reaction? Have you stuck with a game you hated because a friend was playing it and you didn't want to leave them by themselves? Even if it's something as mundane as hating Runes of Magic, today, the floor is open for you to vent whatever you just normally won't share. And then, tomorrow, we can feast with a clear conscience. (Unless you're not in the US, again, but maybe you can start up a regular feast day on Thursdays.)

Filed under: , , ,

The Daily Grind: I've been meaning to tell you... originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> champions-onlinecity-of-heroescocohculturehumoropinionromrunes-of-magicsecretstdgthanksgiving-2009the-daily-grindthursdayworld-of-warcraftwow Eliot Lefebvre Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Warhammer Online merges two more servers]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/warhammer-online-merges-two-more-servers/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/warhammer-online-merges-two-more-servers/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/warhammer-online-merges-two-more-servers/#comments
It wasn't entirely unexpected -- after all, Jeff Skalski gave some indications this might be coming in our recent interview with him -- but it's still unbalancing. Warhammer Online community manager Andy Belford confirmed today that two of the game's servers, Dark Crag and Phoenix Throne, will be shutting down. The population of these servers will be allowed a free transfer to two other servers each -- Iron Rock or Badlands for Dark Crag, Gorfang or Volkmar for Phoenix Throne. He also mentions that there will be a 20% bonus to experience and renown in the weeks following the transfer, to at least slightly take the sting off the event.

It looks as if there will be slightly more servers in the European region, as they have a total of 13 still open... but several of those are due to the different languages, and at least one of the realms is scheduled for shutdown. As for what this means for the game itself... it's hard to call it anything but bad news, even with the promises of a boost incoming to ease the impact. We know that Warhammer Online's future looks a bit shaky after recent events, but this is more dire than any of us had expected or hoped. We'll keep up on any news as it becomes available.

[ Thanks to JP for the tip. ]

Filed under: , , ,

Warhammer Online merges two more servers originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> andy-belfordcharacter-transferfree-transferjeff-skalskimythicmythic-entertainmentnews-itemsserver-mergeserver-shutdownshutdownwarwarhammer-online Eliot Lefebvre Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Jumpgate Evolution brings on a new Executive Producer]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/jumpgate-evolution-brings-on-a-new-executive-producer/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/jumpgate-evolution-brings-on-a-new-executive-producer/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/jumpgate-evolution-brings-on-a-new-executive-producer/#comments Any of you die hard Dark Age of Camelot fans out there? We hope you're paying attention, because NetDevil just brought Lance Roberston aboard their Jumpgate Evolution team as executive producer. For those not in the know: Lance's career blossomed as he rose through the ranks at Mythic Entertainment while working on Dark Age of Camelot. As such, he possesses extensive experience developing MMOs with both PvP and PvE focuses. He also helped to ship Warhammer Online as a senior producer, before the unfortunate events we're all aware of over at Electronic Arts.

Jumpgate Evolution is a three faction game that deals with PvP and PvE. Sound familiar? It should, as DAoC's tri-factions were one of its selling points back in the day. Lance also benefits from having experience in the "what do do" and "what not to do" areas of PvP/PvE MMO development, so we're certain he'll prove to be an immensely useful member of the JGE team.

Filed under: , , ,

Jumpgate Evolution brings on a new Executive Producer originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> daocdark-ageof-cameloteaelectronic-artsexecutive-producergazilliongazillion-entertainmentjgejumpgate-evolutionlance-roberstonmythicmythic-entertainmentnetdevilwarwarhammer-online Kyle Horner Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[The rewards of faction loyalty in Earthrise]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/the-rewards-of-faction-loyalty-in-earthrise/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/the-rewards-of-faction-loyalty-in-earthrise/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/the-rewards-of-faction-loyalty-in-earthrise/#comments
The latest Earthrise Question of the Week is all about quests in the upcoming post-apocalyptic MMO. "Central to the PvE experience, quests in Earthrise are designed to help introduce the players to the tense cultural and political scene that shapes the two conflicting factions fighting for control over the island of Enterra," explains Moll, the game's Community Manager.

There are faction-specific quests unique to either Continoma or Noir, but Earthrise's game mechanics will let players defect to a rival faction to experience another walk of life on Enterra island. Switching allegiances will not be a trivial matter, however, and the consequences a player assumes for doing so will limit how often most characters defect.

Continue reading The rewards of faction loyalty in Earthrise

Filed under: , , , , ,

The rewards of faction loyalty in Earthrise originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> community-managercontinomaearthriseenterraenterra-islandfactionsgame-mechanicsmastheadmasthead-studiosmollnew-titlesnoirorganizationspost-apocalypticpveqotwquestssci-fi James Egan Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[ReSubbed Episode 2: EverQuest]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/resubbed-episode-2-everquest/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/resubbed-episode-2-everquest/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/resubbed-episode-2-everquest/#comments
It's that time of the week again! Time go to back in time with this week's episode of ReSubbed, and boy did we pick a good one for you! What's also 10 years old, helped to start the MMO genre, and has really annoying skeletons? If you guessed EverQuest (or if you read the title above) then you'd be 100% correct!

This week Seraphina is joined by Krystalle Voecks and Kyle Horner as they re-visit the Gloomingdeep Mines and talk about the good 'ol days of trains, planes (of power), and auto-attacks. Plus, as the game has changed much over the years, the gang revisits what the game used to look like and how much it's improved today. Look 'Ma, I don't have to drop my sword on the ground to tell which way is north!

You want some ReSubbed? It's right after the break, for your eyeball viewing pleasure.

Continue reading ReSubbed Episode 2: EverQuest

Filed under: , , , ,

ReSubbed Episode 2: EverQuest originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> everquestgloomingdeep-minespreviewresubbedreviewrevisitsoesony-online-entertainmenttrialvideo Seraphina Brennan Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Nightwing leaps into DC Universe Online]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/nightwing-leaps-into-dc-universe-online/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/nightwing-leaps-into-dc-universe-online/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/nightwing-leaps-into-dc-universe-online/#comments Sony Online Entertainment's newest character reveal for DC Universe Online happens to be the ex-boy wonder himself, Nightwing. No longer the young man fighting at the dark knight's side, Dick Grayson is capable of some incredible feats of athleticism, some even more impressive than Batman's repertoire. He's also known to fight alongside the Teen Titans, and it's nice to see them standing with him in these new screens. All-in-all there are nine screens for you to check out.

There's a long list of heroes and villains from the DC universe to reveal, giving us cause to question whether we'll ever see an end to these announcements. It's not that we're uninterested in seeing the in-game counterparts of these classic characters -- we're simply ready to see more of the actual game itself. Chris Cao did recently answer some fan questions, which was a great start. Here's hoping 2010 plays host to all sorts of awesome DC Universe Online information.

Gallery: DC Universe Online Screenshots

Filed under: , , ,

Nightwing leaps into DC Universe Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> batmanchris-caodark-knightdc-universe-onlinedcuodick-graysonnightwingsoesony-online-entertainment Kyle Horner Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[NCSoft reveals "Visions of the Future" for Aion]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/ncsoft-reveals-visions-of-the-future-for-aion/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/ncsoft-reveals-visions-of-the-future-for-aion/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/ncsoft-reveals-visions-of-the-future-for-aion/#comments
"As the Daevas dream, they see Atreia's future." Just in case there was one person left out there who didn't find Aion to be a visually stunning game, NCSoft released a nine minute gameplay trailer last night entitled "Visions of the Future". The trailer was presented on the official forums and greeted with a storm of "OMG".

Upgraded graphics improved the appearance of an already beautiful game, but that wasn't the thing that caused the excitement among Aion fans. An extensive look at player housing offered samples of available exteriors and interiors, as well as furnishings. And for the remaining fans who hadn't begun salivating? Mounts. In fact, seen here and there were what appeared to be flying mounts, as well as a dinosaur. The first half of the video was rounded out with clever aerial camera work designed to highlight changing seasons over gorgeous landscapes, and promises of swimming.

The video rounded out with an aptly named segment of "Pulse-pounding battles", both aerial and ground-based. Fire-breathing dragons, huge allies summoned from beneath the ground, and what one fan described as "awesome nuking" completed the picture.

A "never ending challenge", promises the end of the trailer. Take a look for yourself after the jump and see if you agree.

Filed under: , ,

NCSoft reveals "Visions of the Future" for Aion originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> aionaion-the-tower-of-eternitymountsncsoftplayer-housingtrailer Rubi Bayer Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[One Shots: Misty shores]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/one-shots-misty-shores/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/one-shots-misty-shores/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/one-shots-misty-shores/#comments One of the things that we love in EverQuest II is finding some really interesting out-of-the-way places as you adventure. Beyond that, the attention to little things like water breaking on the rocks really should be seen animated to be appreciated. Today we have a great screenshot sent in to us by Pedro A that - while it can't show us the waves breaking, sadly - does show us an interesting view he stumbled across. He writes in: This is the first pic [I've sent], I hope you like it. I was wandering along Antonica's north shore when I saw this beautiful sight. Sometimes I get surprised... So many awesome places in EverQuest II and we use[d] to ignore them, concentrated (sic) on leveling, hunting, grinding. MMO's are beautiful.

From big to small, we love 'em all! However, we need you to send those great screenshots in. It's easy to join the ever-growing crowd of our most awesome One Shots contributors! Just email us your screenshot along with your name, the name of the game, and a description of what we're seeing in the shot. We'll post it out here and give you the thumbs-up for sharing a great shot with us.

Gallery: One Shots

Filed under: , , ,

One Shots: Misty shores originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> eq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iione-shotsscreenshotscreenshotssoesony-online-entertainment Krystalle Voecks Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Contest lets EVE Online players get their name in print in E-ON magazine]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/contest-lets-eve-online-players-get-their-name-in-print-in-e-on/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/contest-lets-eve-online-players-get-their-name-in-print-in-e-on/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/contest-lets-eve-online-players-get-their-name-in-print-in-e-on/#comments
While Massively's own EVE Online contest is off to a great start this week, we also want to point out something of interest happening on our friend CrazyKinux's site. Have you ever wanted to see your name in print in E-ON, the official EVE Online magazine? Well now is your chance. CrazyKinux is running a contest where EVE players can make their predictions about how the game will change in 2010 or what will happen in New Eden in the next year. If your prediction lands in the top 10 entries, your submission will make it into print in E-ON magazine in January -- plus you'll also receive a free contributor copy of that issue.

The contest is called "The Oracle of EVE" and will run through November 30th. It'll be judged by CrazyKinux and E-ON editor Richie Shoemaker (aka Zapatero). Check out the announcement post over at CrazyKinux's Musing which explains in greater detail how you can take part. Obviously they're looking for submissions that are well-written and entertaining, but also concise. Entering is quite simple -- just write your 2010 prediction on your own blog and link to it in the comments below "The Oracle of EVE" announcement post. Good luck to any Massively readers that decide to take a shot at this.

Filed under: , ,

Contest lets EVE Online players get their name in print in E-ON magazine originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> ccpccp-gamescontestscrazykinuxcrazykinuxs-musinge-oneveeve-onlinepredictionsrichie-shoemakersci-fizapatero James Egan Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Dan Stahl talks Star Trek Online]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/dan-stahl-talks-star-trek-online/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/dan-stahl-talks-star-trek-online/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/dan-stahl-talks-star-trek-online/#comments
Eurogamer Portugal had the good fortune to chat with Cryptic's Dan Stahl, the producer of Star Trek Online last week for an overview of the highly-anticipated MMO. The interview covered some ground we've seen before, some we have not, and gave his perspective about the creation of STO.

Eurogamer and Stahl talked about his view of things like ship customization vs. remaining true to the Star Trek "look", combat styles on the ground and on ships, and general content. His enjoyment and pride on the game shines through clearly and makes the interview a fun read. "I really think that people who play the game for the first time will look at the game and say 'Wow, they nailed it.'" The translation of the article can be read courtesy of Google Translate, with the original here.

As a little extra bonus, Eurogamer treated us to a beautiful new gameplay trailer which can be viewed here.

Star Trek Online is scheduled for launch in February 2010.

Filed under: , , , ,

Dan Stahl talks Star Trek Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> ataricrypticcryptic-studiosdan-stahleurogamerinterviewstar-trek-onlinesto Rubi Bayer Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[New developer chat transcript for Lord of the Rings Online]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/new-developer-chat-transcript-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/new-developer-chat-transcript-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/new-developer-chat-transcript-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/#comments
There's only a little time left until Lord of the Rings Online launches its next expansion, Siege of Mirkwood, but the players still have questions and the developers are thankfully quite happy to answer them. Not so long ago, WarCry had their first developer chat transcript up for fans of the game to digest. A fair bit of new information has come out since then, and so a new chat transcript is available with more information for the playerbase to mull over for the next week. Unfortunately, it's rather negative, since there are an awful lot of questions whose answers just so happen to be "no."

In no particular order: there are no current plans for expanding the housing system, there are no plans to convert Lorien tokens to Mirkwood, no player-created content systems in the works, no way to send mail with more than one attachment. On the other hand, there's more discussion of the Skirmish mechanics and their comparison with Dungeons and Dragons Online's difficulty-tunable instances, talk about how levels and items will be affected, and the expansive amount of content promised within Mirkwood itself. The full transcript is going to be a bit of a read, but it should tide over anticipation for the fast-approaching launch date.

Filed under: , , , ,

New developer chat transcript for Lord of the Rings Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> ddodeveloper-chatdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionsgame-mechanicsinterviewslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrosiege-of-mirkwoodskirmishskirmishestranscriptturbineturbine-entertainment Eliot Lefebvre Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Star Trek Online VFX Lead on updating visual style of the IP]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/star-trek-online-vfx-lead-on-updating-visual-style-of-the-ip/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/star-trek-online-vfx-lead-on-updating-visual-style-of-the-ip/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/star-trek-online-vfx-lead-on-updating-visual-style-of-the-ip/#comments
IGN recently posted a Star Trek Online dev diary written by the game's VFX Lead Michael Cavallaro. "Creating the visual style of Star Trek Online was no easy task," said Cavallaro. "You might think that everything we would be creating has already been done, but not only are references several years old but they vary across the board." If you factor in how the effects changed between the various series and movies, you can see how preserving the look of Star Trek as viewers know it posed a challenge for the Cryptic Studios devs.

The idea, Cavallaro related, was for the Cryptic devs to draw upon elements from the original Star Trek series and update that now-retro 60's sci-fi look for a contemporary audience. The trick was to do so while keeping said elements recognizable from the original IP.

Continue reading Star Trek Online VFX Lead on updating visual style of the IP

Filed under: , ,

Star Trek Online VFX Lead on updating visual style of the IP originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> crypticcryptic-studiosdev-blogdev-diaryignmichael-cavallaronew-titlessci-fistar-trekstar-trek-onlinestovfxvfx-lead James Egan Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Bill Roper talks powers in Champions Online]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/bill-roper-talks-powers-in-champions-online/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/bill-roper-talks-powers-in-champions-online/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/bill-roper-talks-powers-in-champions-online/#comments
Two of the biggest aspects of Champions Online are easy to point out: the character creator and the wide selection of powers. Certainly it's not the first game to use a classless system by a long shot, but the visual and immediate nature of power selection and the cosmetic effects of those choice are a big part of the game's distinctiveness. So it's hard not to be interested when Bill Roper sits down and talks with MMOCrunch about which powers he thinks worked excellently out of the gate and which onces were a bit less impressive.

Bill gushes quite enthusiastically about powers such as Force Cascade, Killer Instinct, and Thermal Reverberation -- powers that encourage alternate playstyles or different combinations of abilities. He's also enthusiastic about Uppercut and Haymaker, which he feels have an excellent payoff if they're used successfully and force the player to think more carefully. On the flipside, passive offensive powers don't have nearly enough effect, Chain Lightning tries to encourage alternate approaches but fails to do so, and summoning doesn't mesh nicely with the game's core play aspects. Roper also talks about what's being planned for the underwhelming powers to help bring them more in line, as well as discussing data mining and the infamous launch day nerfs. Take a look at the full interview for more details.

Filed under: , , , ,

Bill Roper talks powers in Champions Online originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> bill-roperchampions-onlinecocrypticcryptic-studiosgame-mechanicsinterviewsopinion Eliot Lefebvre Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[The Daily Grind: How easy is too easy?]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/the-daily-grind-how-easy-is-too-easy/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/the-daily-grind-how-easy-is-too-easy/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/24/the-daily-grind-how-easy-is-too-easy/#comments
Difficulty in games is a contentious issue at any point. Brian "Psychochild" Green recently had a musing on the topic of difficulty as it applies to most games, but even that discussion stops shy of discussing MMOs, where multiple difficulty levels are rarely an option. Designers can make harder events, but if the rewards are the same as something easier, no one will bother making life harder on themselves. That makes the "hard mode" more than just an increased challenge, and sets up a hardwired and sometimes arbitrary challenge-to-reward ratio. On the flip side... well, it's not fun to have the game just hand everything to you. We want to feel as if we're accomplishing something when we play.

So today, we ask you, what's too far in either direction? What sort of penalties or challenges make something so ridiculously hard it's not worth bothering? By the same token, how simple does something have to be before you're annoyed at the ease of it all? What levels of difficulty can be tinkered with without making the game unpleasant, and what elements of gameplay are best kept at a set level?

Filed under: , , ,

The Daily Grind: How easy is too easy? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> brian-greenchallengeculturedifficultygame-mechanicspsychochildtdgthe-daily-grindtoo-easytoo-hardyou-have-to-burn-the-rope Eliot Lefebvre Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Mortal Online lifts the NDA]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/mortal-online-lifts-the-nda/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/mortal-online-lifts-the-nda/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/mortal-online-lifts-the-nda/#comments Getting into a closed beta is usually good news for the player, with one unmistakable caveat -- the NDA. You can't talk about anything that's going on when you play the game, either the cool features that are encouraging to anyone on the fence about the game or the horrible problems that make it a miserable slog. Mortal Online has long been fairly quiet to the outside simply because of its NDA -- but that changes now. As of today, the NDA is lifted on the game and it can be discussed freely.

Henrik Nystrom on the official forums explains that while the game is still undergoing more polish, the core features have all been implemented and tested, which means that the developers are comfortable having the game discussed and dissected elsewhere. The post also states that the release date might be pushed back a little, as well as the plans for the game to move into a fully-open free-to-play beta as they move on to the next phase of testing. It's certainly good news for people interested in Mortal Online who didn't want to purchase the game sight-unseen. So, if you've been playing the game in beta so far, what are your thoughts? You can tell us all about it now.

[Thanks Mortal Online Radio!]

Filed under: , , , ,

Mortal Online lifts the NDA originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> betabetasclosed-betahenrik-nystrommortal-onlinendanda-liftnews-itemsopen-betapreviewsstar-vault Eliot Lefebvre Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Final SWTOR classes revealed: Jedi Consular and Sith Inquisitor]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/final-swtor-classes-revealed-jedi-consular-and-sith-inquisitor/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/final-swtor-classes-revealed-jedi-consular-and-sith-inquisitor/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/final-swtor-classes-revealed-jedi-consular-and-sith-inquisitor/#comments Fans of BioWare's much-anticipated MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic received some good news today with a reveal of the game's final two classes: the Jedi Consular and the Sith Inquisitor. The Jedi Consular is a support class specialized in healing, but with ranged offensive capabilities as well. The Sith Inquisitor, not surprisingly, is primarily a damage dealer. It seems the first word of the Jedi Consular and Sith Inquisitor classes came from a fan translation at Star Wars MMO.net of the German magazine "PC Games".

The classes were confirmed earlier today by SWTOR Community Manager Sean Dahlberg who wrote: "Fans of Star Wars: The Old Republic will be in for a treat this week! Several magazines in North America and Europe will have articles that not only talk about The Old Republic but also reveal our final two classes: the Jedi Consular and the Sith Inquisitor!"

Continue reading Final SWTOR classes revealed: Jedi Consular and Sith Inquisitor

Filed under: , , , ,

Final SWTOR classes revealed: Jedi Consular and Sith Inquisitor originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> biowarebreakingclassesdarth-haterjedi-consularnew-titlessci-fisean-dahlbergsith-inquisitorstar-wars-the-old-republicswtor James Egan Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[Masthead Studios CEO updates on Earthrise progress]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/masthead-studios-ceo-updates-on-earthrise-progress/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/masthead-studios-ceo-updates-on-earthrise-progress/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/masthead-studios-ceo-updates-on-earthrise-progress/#comments
Earthrise fans will still have a bit of a wait ahead of them in terms of getting into open beta, but development and improvements are ongoing through the current closed beta. Masthead Studios CEO Atanas Atanasov was recently interviewed by MMORPG.com's Garrett Fuller, updating Earthrise fans on the game's current status and details of some of the game mechanics of skills and tactics. Noteworthy -- Atanasov discusses why Masthead Studios chose to develop a sandbox MMO and foster a player-driven setting, rather than a more typical game where players move quickly through the content and then wait for the next expansion to release.

"The sense of involvement and power to create and change can invigorate and keep players glued to the game for years to come," says Atanasov. On that topic of sandboxes, the interview also discusses how MMO titles like Ultima Online and EVE Online have been part of the inspiration for Earthrise.

Continue reading Masthead Studios CEO updates on Earthrise progress

Filed under: , , , , , ,

Masthead Studios CEO updates on Earthrise progress originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> atanas-atanasovclosed-betaearthrisegame-mechanicsguildsinterviewsmasthead-studiosnew-titlesopen-pvppost-apocalypticpvpsandboxsci-fi James Egan Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST Massively <![CDATA[NCsoft bans 16,000 Aion accounts]]> http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/ncsoft-bans-16-000-aion-accounts/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/ncsoft-bans-16-000-aion-accounts/ http://www.massively.com/2009/11/23/ncsoft-bans-16-000-aion-accounts/#comments One of the continued complaints we hear from Aion players is that bots litter the game's digital landscape, severely reducing the enjoyment of actual flesh-n-bones players. So we feel inclined to shout, "Good news, everybody!" at today's announcement by NCsoft that nearly 16,000 accounts have been banned during a recent unscheduled server reboot.

That's a huge number and certainly nothing to scoff about. This should hopefully alleviate much of the problem, at least temporarily -- and then future banhammers will likely come crashing down.

We hope nobody was caught in the crossfire with today's bans, but if you do find yourself without an Aion account to play and are 100% sure of your innocence, you can create a support ticket. Obviously, this isn't ideal if you're suddenly without your account, so with any luck there aren't any cases of mistakenly banned players.

Filed under: , ,

NCsoft bans 16,000 Aion accounts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

]]> aionbanbanhammerbansbotsbottingeulancsoftncwest Kyle Horner Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST Massively