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Massively http://www.massively.com Massively http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Massively http://www.massively.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[Guy steals friend's goods in APB, GM offers vigilante justice in return]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/19/guy-steals-friends-goods-in-apb-gm-offers-vigilante-justice-in/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/19/guy-steals-friends-goods-in-apb-gm-offers-vigilante-justice-in/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/19/guy-steals-friends-goods-in-apb-gm-offers-vigilante-justice-in/#commentsFiled under: Culture, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime, MMOFPS, Humor

APB

Account theft and compromise are tragic facts of life in all MMOs, as player BlackJackieChan discovered the other day when he logged into APB: Reloaded and realized that he was wiped out.

After posting a tirade on the forums, BlackJackieChan got the attention of a GM, who subsequently investigated the crime. His findings were stunning: BlackJackieChan's in-game friend beef43302 was the culprit. Beef43302 had crept into his friend's account, swiped a number of goods, and then deleted the temporary characters used for the theft. Beef43302 then tried to cover up his wrongdoing by consoling BlackJackieChan with a new car and encouraging him to stick with the game.

Even though BlackJackieChan was accused of not protecting his account (apparently he had shown his password to his friend), GamersFirst restored the stolen items and then offered BlackJackieChan the chance to decide his friend's punishment. "Seeing as this is a relatively unique case," the GM wrote, "we shall let you decide the fate of beef43302."

BlackJackieChan has yet to respond on the thread, but the GM did tell the offender that the company suspended his account "unless BlackJackieChan says otherwise."

Guy steals friend's goods in APB, GM offers vigilante justice in return originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-theftall-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrblackjackiechancompromised-accountcrimef2pfree-to-playg1gamersfirsthackhackinghumorpasswordpassword-theftpvptheftvigilante-justiceSat, 19 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist: When dead MMOs come back to life]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/01/the-game-archaeologist-when-dead-mmos-come-back-to-life/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Sci-fi, The Matrix Online, Star Wars Galaxies, Hellgate: London, Tabula Rasa, Shadowbane, Mythos, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, LEGO Universe, The Game Archaeologist, Faxion Online

Hellgate Tokyo

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrchangyouclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicsclone-wars-adventurescrimediablodiablo-clonef2pfallen-earthfantasyfaxion-onlinefeaturedflagshipfree-realmsfree-to-playfrogsterg1galaxiesgame-archaelogistgamersfirsthanbitsofthellgatehellgate-globalhellgate-londonhellgate-tokyojohn-smedleylego-universemythosmythos-europemythos-globalnostalgiaopinionPirates-of-the-Burning-Seapvprebootredbanaresurrectionrevivalsandboxsci-fishadowbanesoesony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiesswgswgot3t3funtabula-rasathe-game-archaeologistthe-matrix-onlinevanguardzombie-mmozombiesTue, 01 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB: Reloaded's patch 1.7: New Breed Part One is locked, loaded, and live]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/19/apb-reloadeds-patch-1-7-new-breed-part-one-is-locked-loaded/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/19/apb-reloadeds-patch-1-7-new-breed-part-one-is-locked-loaded/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/19/apb-reloadeds-patch-1-7-new-breed-part-one-is-locked-loaded/#commentsFiled under: Patches, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime

Screenshot -- APB: Reloaded

Heads up, APB: Reloaded players; the game's patch 1.7: A New Breed Part One is now live, so it's time once again to lock and load. This rather sizeable update brings quite a few new features with it, such as the previously covered new contacts, weapons, mods, weekly challenges, and more.

On top of all those goodies, the patch is also introducing a number of new clothing sets and vehicle kits to allow players to commit/bust crimes with panache. A great number of changes have been made to the game proper as well, such as some environmental tweaks and some modifications to weapon and character mechanics, the full list of which can be found over on the game's official blog. But why read about it when you can experience all the new content yourself? Just head on over to San Paro and join the fight.

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

APB: Reloaded's patch 1.7: New Breed Part One is locked, loaded, and live originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-new-breed-part-oneall-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrcrimef2pfree-to-playg1gamersfirstnew-breed-part-onepatchpatch-1.7patchespvpThu, 19 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB: Reloaded dev blog introduces patch 1.7's new breed of contacts]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/09/apb-reloaded-dev-blog-introduces-patch-1-7s-new-breed-of-conta/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/09/apb-reloaded-dev-blog-introduces-patch-1-7s-new-breed-of-conta/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/09/apb-reloaded-dev-blog-introduces-patch-1-7s-new-breed-of-conta/#commentsFiled under: Patches, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime

What kind of parents name their kid DevilDog?

Criminals and Enforcers alike have plenty to look forward to in APB: Reloaded's upcoming patch 1.7.0, which has been given the name New Breeds Part One. The inspiration for this subtitle comes from the "new breed" of contacts being added to the game with the update, including the sociopathic Criminal Tiptoe (daughter of the Bloodrose Tyron Sennet) and former-military-sniper-turned-Enforcer DevilDog. These new contacts will provide players with a wealth of new progression options such as new weapons, weapon skins, modifications, shiny vehicles, and inventory space increases.

On top of all those goodies, New Breed Part One will also introduce Fight Club Challenges, which are weekly events that allow players to compete in a number of unique challenges in order to earn prizes ranging from APB$ to unique weapons and vehicles. Each challenge will require players to play a particular gametype on a particular map, and each "will have three [reward] tiers, with the third and second prizes being straight up requirements, and the top prize requiring you to be in the top X% of players that have taken part in the challenge." The first week's challenges, along with a list of new weapons and modifications, can be found on the game's official blog post for anyone who wants to get a leg-up on the competition, so get out there and wreak some havoc.

APB: Reloaded dev blog introduces patch 1.7's new breed of contacts originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrchallengescrimef2pfight-clubfight-club-challengesfree-to-playg1gamersfirstnew-breed-part-onepatchpatch-1.7patchespvpupdateupdatesMon, 09 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously On MVTV: The week of February 25th]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/04/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-february-25th/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/04/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-february-25th/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/04/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-february-25th/#commentsFiled under: Fantasy, Video, EVE Online, Events, real-world, Events, in-game, Previews, PvP, PvE, Opinion, Free-to-play, Browser, Hands-on, Casual, All Points Bulletin, Crime, MMOFPS, Global Agenda, Humor, Massively Hands-on, Kids, Wizard101, RIFT, Allods Online, Family, Livestream, Miscellaneous, Previously on MV TV

So you missed out on some of Massively's wonderful livestreams, huh? You had to go out and hang out with actual human beings and missed some of the most exciting live game playing you could have imagined? Shame. Shame on you. Don't worry, though; I've taken the time to collect some of the very best moments from the previous week's shows and combine them into one easy, one-stop-shop for your viewing pleasure.

Really, it's no trouble. Do be a dear and bookmark our MassivelyTV Guide for future reference!

So what do we have this week? Some pretty awesome stuff, actually. Richie jumps back into some Guild Wars, Mike takes an explosive swing at EVE Online once again and then hops into RIFT, Psykopig slowly finds himself falling in love with Wizard101 despite his attempts at resistance, Karen and the team from Allods Online embark on a tour of high-level content and Astral ships, I get invited to a real wedding inside Luvinia Online, and Tboo does her usual best by shooting people in the face in APB: Reloaded.

Continue reading Previously On MVTV: The week of February 25th

Previously On MVTV: The week of February 25th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlineanetapb-reloadedArena-Netbeau-hindmanccpeve-onlineeventsfeaturedgpotatoguild-warsLiveStreamlivestreamingluvinia-onlinemassively-streamteammassively-tvmassivelytvmv-tvmvtvoutsparkpreviously-on-mv-tvriftround-uproundupstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideovideosSun, 04 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst sees a management shakeup]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/02/16/gamersfirst-sees-a-management-shakeup/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/16/gamersfirst-sees-a-management-shakeup/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/16/gamersfirst-sees-a-management-shakeup/#commentsFiled under: MMO industry, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin

Not pictured: management.

GamersFirst is in the minds of gamers for its successful relaunch of APB: Reloaded, which went from a lightning-fast shutdown to a successful free-to-play title. The company is also developing new games based on original IPs for future release. But there's some rumbling going on behind the scenes at the company, as the company's parent corporation, K2 Network, saw the resignation of its CEO, Joshua Hong. Bjorn Book-Larsson, former COO and CTO, has been promoted to the CEO position, with Hong's future uncertain.

The official statements claim that the transition of power was amicable and pre-arranged, but it also comes on the heels of worldwide layoffs from K2 and rumors of a power struggle behind the scenes. Rahul Sandil, the company's public relations chief, claimed that there was no truth to these rumors and that the plan was to move forward from simple localizations of titles developed in foreign markets. Sandil went on to confirm that APB: Reloaded continues to be a large-scale success for the company and that further development will be centered around work that Book-Larsson had already seen during his time as CTO and COO.

GamersFirst sees a management shakeup originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbjorn-book-larssonbusinessbusiness-newsceocooctof2pfree-to-playgame-industrygamersfirstjoshua-hongk2-networklayoffsmanagementmmo-industryrahul-sandilThu, 16 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB now available at European retail stores]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/02/13/apb-now-available-at-european-retail-stores/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/13/apb-now-available-at-european-retail-stores/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/13/apb-now-available-at-european-retail-stores/#commentsFiled under: MMO industry, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime

APB Reloaded - the popo

The writing may be on the wall for lovers of the physical game box, but not every company is giving up on retail altogether. GamersFirst has just announced a partnership with Iceberg Interactive to distribute APB Reloaded to brick and mortar stores across the UK, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Scandinavia.

The box sells for £20 and features £30 of bonus items including a permanent hi-performance vehicle, weapon, and 30 days of premium access (which in turn provides increased cash and reputation rewards, plus a hefty discount at the cash shop).

APB Reloaded is an open-world third-person shooter set in the crime-ridden streets of San Paro. The game is free-to-play, powered by the Unreal 3 Engine, and features an advanced avatar customization system that allows for personalized symbols, clothing, vehicles, and in-game music.

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

APB now available at European retail stores originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbonus-itemscrimecustomizationf2pfree-to-playiceberg-interactivemmo-shooterphysical-boxretailretail-boxshooterMon, 13 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst teases APB Valentine's Day massacre event]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/02/08/gamersfirst-teases-apb-valentines-day-massacre-event/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/08/gamersfirst-teases-apb-valentines-day-massacre-event/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/08/gamersfirst-teases-apb-valentines-day-massacre-event/#commentsFiled under: Events, in-game, MMO industry, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime

APB Reloaded - Valentine banner

If you've ever wanted to wield a pink assault rifle, APB Reloaded is the game for you (also, seek professional help). It's only for a limited time, though, and the shenanigans are a part of GamersFirst's Valentine's Day massacre event.

All you have to do is log in, as G1 is sending everyone a couple of V-Day-themed weapons. Furthermore, each gun "contains an exciting new modification," according to a post on APB's official boards. Killing foes with the special weapons will advance two new roles and lead to Valentine prizes like new theme music, symbol art, and heart-shaped sunglasses.

The shindig kicks off today and runs through February 20th, so be sure and get started on your role advancement ASAP.

GamersFirst teases APB Valentine's Day massacre event originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedcrimef2pfree-to-playg1gamersfirstmmo-shootersan-paroshootervalentine-eventvalentines-dayvalentines-day-massacreWed, 08 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB Reloaded finally comes to retail]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/23/apb-reloaded-finally-comes-to-retail/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/23/apb-reloaded-finally-comes-to-retail/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/23/apb-reloaded-finally-comes-to-retail/#commentsFiled under: Business models, MMO industry, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime

APB Reloaded - mexican standoff

Back in early December, GamersFirst announced the impending retail availability of APB Reloaded. As it turns out, the announcement was premature and the actual date has remained a mystery.

Until today.

The free-to-play shooter is now on sale at Best Buy, and the box features more than $50 worth of in-game items. Thirty days of premium access are part of the package, and you'll get faster rep and XP gains, more currency rewards, and a 20% discount in the game's cash shop for your trouble. You'll also take home 500 G1 credits, a faction-specific Z180 sports car, and a Magnum ACT-44 handgun available to all the characters on your account.

Finally, GamersFirst says each retail edition comes with a "super-secret bonus permanent weapon."

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

APB Reloaded finally comes to retail originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedBest-Buycrimef2pfree-to-playgamersfirstretailretail-boxretail-editionsan-paroMon, 23 Jan 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[[Updated] On the sixth day of giveaways, GamersFirst gave to me...]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/18/on-the-sixth-day-of-giveaways-gamersfirst-gave-to-me/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/18/on-the-sixth-day-of-giveaways-gamersfirst-gave-to-me/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/18/on-the-sixth-day-of-giveaways-gamersfirst-gave-to-me/#commentsFiled under: Contests, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime, Giveaways

APB

[UPDATE: All winners have been selected and contacted. Thanks to everyone who entered!]

On the sixth day of giveaways, GamersFirst gave to me... six retail packs!
On the fifth day of giveaways, Trion gave to me... five subscription codes!
On the fourth day of giveaways, Nexon gave to me... four pet items!
On the third day of giveaways, Wargaming.net gave to me... three premium years!
On the second day of giveaways, BioWare gave to me... two warring factions!
On the first day of giveaways, Turbine gave to me... a lifetime VIP!

We're at the halfway point of our 12 Days of Giveaways thanks to GamersFirst and APB: Reloaded. Remember earlier this month when we told you about the new retail boxed edition of the game? Well, if you liked it, you're in luck. GamersFirst has put together six digital copies of that edition, wrapped them up in a big bow, and put them under our virtual tree.

Six lucky Massively readers will win a bundle containing 30 days of premium access, 500 G1 credits, a faction-specific sports car, and a special secondary weapon. If you win, look very carefully because Santa Paro (/rimshot) has slipped one more extra special item into each pack. We'll save that one for a surprise!

Want to get your hands on one of these codes? To enter, simply leave a comment answering the burning question: enforcer or criminal? The entry deadline is tomorrow, December 19th, at 2:00 p.m. EST. Once the deadline hits, we'll choose six winners and award the gifts. Check out the contest rules below, and best of luck!

CONTEST FAQ

OFFICIAL RULES

[Updated] On the sixth day of giveaways, GamersFirst gave to me... originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 18 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-giveaways-2011all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedcontestcontestsf2pfree-to-playg1gamersfirstgiveawaygiveawaysSun, 18 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB: Reloaded cracks into Steam's most-played games]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/15/apb-reloaded-cracks-into-steams-most-played-games/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/15/apb-reloaded-cracks-into-steams-most-played-games/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/15/apb-reloaded-cracks-into-steams-most-played-games/#commentsFiled under: Real life, MMO industry, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime

Welp, round about now the Duke and the boys knew they was in a whole heap o' trouble.

Calling all cars -- all three million of them, even. Yes, that's how many players APB: Reloaded now claims, which allows the game to crack into the top ten games being played on Steam and places it second on the list of free games. That's definitely a big impression, one that couples nicely with the game's recent release of a boxed retail copy with several bonus items for first-time or existing players.

According to Rahul Sandil, SVP of marketing and business development for GamersFirst, "[GamersFirst] recognized the potential for APB: Reloaded to be a true breakout hit in the Free2Play category all through beta testing." The game's new Fight Club gameplay mode hasn't hurt the game's popularity either, which is all pretty good for a game that originally set a record for its quick shutdown. The future of APB: Reloaded remains to be seen, but the present is certainly looking bright.

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

APB: Reloaded cracks into Steam's most-played games originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedf2pfight-clubfree-to-playgamersfirstmmo-industrynewsplayer-statsrahul-sandilreloaded-productionsstatisticsThu, 15 Dec 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[APB: Reloaded unveils a boatload of new screenshots]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/09/apb-reloaded-unveils-a-boatload-of-new-screenshots/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/09/apb-reloaded-unveils-a-boatload-of-new-screenshots/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/09/apb-reloaded-unveils-a-boatload-of-new-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: Real life, Galleries, Screenshots, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime

Orange is still usually not among police uniform colors. Sadly.

Are you excited about the release of the APB: Reloaded retail box? Ambivalent about the release but fond of screenshots? Either way, there's a whole lot of new screenshots from the game to coincide with said release, showing off two of the new maps for the game's new Fight Club battle mode and new SWAT gear for Enforcer players who like to take down crime in style. And heavy armor, which seems practical.

There's also a new revelation about the retail pack itself, as it seems that GamersFirst has sweetened the pot slightly. In addition to all of the bonuses listed in our post on the release yesterday, GamersFirst has confirmed that there are extra weapons in the package for those who purchase the pack within the first 30 days. So if you're curious about what you could do on the streets and have the $30 to check it out, now might be the time to do so.

Gallery: APB Reloaded new SWAT gear

Gallery: APB Reloaded: Fight Club map The Beacon

Gallery: APB Reloaded: Fight Club map Baylan Shipping

Gallery: APB Reloaded

APB: Reloaded unveils a boatload of new screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbonus-goodsbonus-rewardsf2pfree-to-playg1galleriesgallerygamersfirstretailretail-editionscreenshotscreenshotsspecial-rewardsFri, 09 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Firing Line: Gravity-defying gameplay edition]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/09/the-firing-line-gravity-defying-gameplay-edition/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/09/the-firing-line-gravity-defying-gameplay-edition/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/09/the-firing-line-gravity-defying-gameplay-edition/#commentsFiled under: Sci-fi, Game mechanics, MMO industry, New titles, Patches, PvP, News items, Opinion, All Points Bulletin, MMOFPS, DUST 514, The Firing Line

The Firing Line

Hullo shooter fans, and welcome back to Massively's weekly dose of pew pew news and views. The past seven days were quiet ones for three of the The Firing Line's "big four" MMO shooters, as newsmakers on the PlanetSide 2, Global Agenda, and Firefall dev teams were all silent.

Thankfully there were a couple of cool DUST 514 tidbits to chew on, but before we get to those, I'd like to call your attention to some interesting Tribes: Ascend, APB: Reloaded, and CrimeCraft news that you may have missed.

Continue reading The Firing Line: Gravity-defying gameplay edition

The Firing Line: Gravity-defying gameplay edition originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aimbotsall-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedcheatscrimecraftdustdust-514expansionsfeaturedfiring-linegang-warsgangwarshi-rezhi-rez-studiosmmo-shooternews-roundupopinionpatchesshooterthe-firing-linetribestribes-ascendFri, 09 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB retail edition to hit store shelves tomorrow [Updated]]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/08/apb-retail-edition-to-hit-store-shelves-tomorrow/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/08/apb-retail-edition-to-hit-store-shelves-tomorrow/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/08/apb-retail-edition-to-hit-store-shelves-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: Real life, Business models, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin

And you can shoot them!

Would you buy a box set for a free-to-play game? It might seem like an odd question, but GamersFirst is hoping that the answer to that question is "yes" once you see what's being offered with the APB: Reloaded boxed edition. With a suggested retail price of $29.99, the box is set to go on sale starting tomorrow, December 9th, and will be sold at Best Buy, Target, GameStop, and Walmart.

And what do you get when you buy the game? Aside from an installation disc and manual, you get 30 days free of Premium account status and 500 G1 credits for use in the game's microtransaction store. You also get a faction-specific sports car and a special secondary weapon to help ensure that you're never without a holdout in a protracted firefight. Time will tell if this addition to the game's marketing proves profitable for the game under its current business model.

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

[Update: We've since been told that the retail launch of APB: Reloaded has been delayed. The team hopes to have an updated date by Friday, December 16th. We'll update you when we know more!]

APB retail edition to hit store shelves tomorrow [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedbox-editionbusiness-modelsbusiness-newsf2pfree-to-playgamersfirstnewsretailretail-boxretail-editionThu, 08 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Impressions: A second look at APB on launch day]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/06/first-impressions-a-second-look-at-apb-on-launch-day/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/06/first-impressions-a-second-look-at-apb-on-launch-day/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/06/first-impressions-a-second-look-at-apb-on-launch-day/#commentsFiled under: Screenshots, Launches, Free-to-play, Hands-on, All Points Bulletin, Crime, Massively Hands-on, First Impressions

APB Relaunch day

On June 29th, 2010, Realtime Worlds launched All Points Bulletin, an MMO that was highly anticipated for its character customization options, open-world "gang warfare" PvP, and similarity to the wildy popular Grand Theft Auto series of video games. In fact, the original APB's lead designer was David Jones, creator of such classics as Lemmings and the original Grand Theft Auto.

But six weeks later, Realtime Worlds entered administration, which essentially means that the company was having financial troubles but was allowed to continue running while looking for a new owner. That new owner didn't materialize quickly enough, forcing the company to announce the game's closure during what may be the shortest MMO lifespan of all time.

But who should come to save the day on November 11, 2010? None other than K2 Network, parent company of free-to-play publisher GamersFirst, which swooped in to rescue the game under the new title APB: Reloaded.

Today marks the official re-launch of the crime MMO on Steam, and I've been spending entirely too much time with the game, rediscovering why I both loved and hated the original version. Follow along after the cut for our second look at a First Impressions of APB.

Continue reading First Impressions: A second look at APB on launch day

First Impressions: A second look at APB on launch day originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapbapb-reloadedapbrcrimef2pfirst-impressionsfree-to-playg1gamersfirsthands-onk2-networkrealtime-worldsrelaunchsecond-chanceTue, 06 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst reveals APB live action trailer]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/11/gamersfirst-reveals-apb-live-action-trailer/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/11/gamersfirst-reveals-apb-live-action-trailer/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/11/gamersfirst-reveals-apb-live-action-trailer/#commentsFiled under: Real life, Trailers, Video, MMO industry, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime, MMOFPS, Miscellaneous

APB Reloaded - gangsters

It may be Veteran's Day here in the States, but GamersFirst is exhorting shooter fans to "be all you can't be" courtesy of a new APB: Reloaded trailer that mixes live action cinematography with in-game mayhem.

The clip is a three-and-a-half-minute exercise in gangsta wish fulfillment, and it features enough short skirts, big guns, and urban thug chic to fill several summers' worth of action films. The video release coincides with APB: Reloaded's new Facebook campaign, which is designed to spread the word about the free-to-play title and reward customers who get their friends to join in the fun. Check out the clip after the break, and head to the official website for more details.

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

Continue reading GamersFirst reveals APB live action trailer

GamersFirst reveals APB live action trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apbapb-reloadedbe-all-you-cant-becrimecriminalsenforcersf2pfree-to-playgamersfirstgangstersmmo-shootermmofpsreal-lifesan-paroshootertrailervideoFri, 11 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New trailer for APB: Reloaded encourages you to be someone else]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/07/new-trailer-for-apb-reloaded-encourages-you-to-be-someone-else/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/07/new-trailer-for-apb-reloaded-encourages-you-to-be-someone-else/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/07/new-trailer-for-apb-reloaded-encourages-you-to-be-someone-else/#commentsFiled under: Real life, Trailers, Video, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Humor

Be someone who points guns at cameramen!

When we're young, we're usually told that we can be anything we want when we grow up. After the ensuing 20-minute discussion in which our parents explain that we cannot grow up to be a caterpillar, a race car, or James Bond, we quickly come to understand that our options are a bit more limited than we were told. And that's something that the newest trailer for APB: Reloaded understands, as evidenced in the first few moments with its declaration that the real world sucks.

The trailer's goal is to highlight some of the gameplay and customization possible within the engine, encouraging players to be more than is possible within the real world. (Well, to be fair, it's very possible to have shootouts with the police in the real world, but it's not something you can log off from.) Click on past the break to see the whole trailer in all its glory.

Continue reading New trailer for APB: Reloaded encourages you to be someone else

New trailer for APB: Reloaded encourages you to be someone else originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedf2pfree-to-playgameplay-trailergamersfirsttrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 07 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The story of saving APB]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/10/31/the-story-of-saving-apb/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/31/the-story-of-saving-apb/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/31/the-story-of-saving-apb/#commentsFiled under: Betas, Business models, MMO industry, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime, MMOFPS

APB

While many of us are aware of the basics behind the rise, fall, and re-rise of All Points Bulletin, it's only been from a partial, fragmented perspective. GamesIndustry.biz conducted an in-depth investigation into the story of how GamersFirst swooped in to save the drowning APB, which barely had 130,000 registered users at the time of its shutdown last year.

As the game and company went into administration, GamersFirst sent in a team to assess the title and see what could be done. The company decided to purchase it and convert it to a free-to-play model, although Bjorn Book-Larsson said that the price tag for the company was higher than initially anticipated: "It ended up not being a cheap deal for us, but obviously a lot cheaper than the initial development."

In restructuring the development team, GamersFirst reduced the number of developers by 90% to make it more agile, often recruiting former Realtime Worlds employees who showed promise. "Our production designer used to be the lead QA person. He'd spent years taking notes on how things should have been different. Essentially, when I met him the first time he rattled off a huge list of what he thought should have been different. Just an insane amount. We just said, maybe we should just hire you as a designer," Larsson said.

So far, it looks as though the restructuring and new focus is paying off, as APB Reloaded's beta is currently seeing five times as many players as those who registered for the box product last year.

The story of saving APB originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbetaBjorn-Book-Larssonclosed-betaf2pfree-to-playgamers-firstgamersfirstgamesindustry.bizinterviewopen-betaqarealtime-worldsrestructuringMon, 31 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Exclusive: GamersFirst on yesterday's layoffs and the future of APB]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/10/28/massively-exclusive-gamersfirst-speaks-out-on-yesterdays-layof/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/28/massively-exclusive-gamersfirst-speaks-out-on-yesterdays-layof/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/28/massively-exclusive-gamersfirst-speaks-out-on-yesterdays-layof/#commentsFiled under: Real life, Sci-fi, Fallen Earth, Business models, Interviews, MMO industry, News items, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime, Miscellaneous

APB Reloaded banner

It's been a whirlwind couple of days for the folks at GamersFirst. Yesterday we broke the story of layoffs at the company, and today the free-to-play firm has come forward to chat with us about what exactly is going on (and what exactly it's thinking in regard to the new Occupy Free2Play promotion).

We talked with Rahul Sandil, G1's senior vice president of marketing and business development, and he had some interesting things to say about the future of both APB Reloaded and Fallen Earth.

Continue reading Massively Exclusive: GamersFirst on yesterday's layoffs and the future of APB

Massively Exclusive: GamersFirst on yesterday's layoffs and the future of APB originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbusiness-modelscrimeexclusivef2pfallen-earthfeaturedfree-to-playg1gamers-firstgamersfirstlayoffsmassively-exclusivemmo-industryrahul-sandilsci-fiFri, 28 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GamersFirst challenging players with Occupy Free2Play]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/10/28/gamersfirst-challenging-players-with-occupy-free2play/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/28/gamersfirst-challenging-players-with-occupy-free2play/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/28/gamersfirst-challenging-players-with-occupy-free2play/#commentsFiled under: Betas, MMO industry, Free-to-play, All Points Bulletin, Crime, Giveaways

APB

Occupy Wall Street is the phrase on everyone's lips these days, and the folks at GamersFirst are getting in on the action with a lighthearted spinoff of the movement. GamersFirst is making the bold statement that it's "challenging video game players and consumers to break the cycle of MMOs that require you to commit to a subscription after spending as much as $60 for the honor of playing their products."

The company continues, "Worse is the latest crop of subscription-lite and freemium games claiming to be Free2Play. GamersFirst is challenging gamers to reject this propaganda of what other publishers are calling free and demand more from their gaming experience."

It's an interesting take on gaming, but G1 has even more to say and a very clear idea of what F2P is not: "Free2Play is NOT a thinly-veiled game trial. Free2Play is NOT titles that require cash shop purchases to play. Free2Play is NOT experience level caps. Free2Play is NOT exclusive content for paying players. Free2Play is NOT pay-to-win." Strong words, but is there anything behind them?

The answer seems to be yes, since GamersFirst is backing up its words with -- what else? -- free items. Massively has been given 5,000 codes for APB: Reloaded gift packages that include three days of access to both a Colby CSG-20 PR2 shotgun and a ACT 44 Golden Marksmen pistol. The package also includes three days of premium access to the game. Head to our giveaway page to pick up your items, and make sure you hit the comment button to give us your take on Occupy Free2Play!

TO THE GIVEAWAY

GamersFirst challenging players with Occupy Free2Play originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinall-points-bulletin-reloadedapb-reloadedf2pfree-to-playg1gamers-firstgamersfirstgiveawaygiveawaysoccupy-free2playFri, 28 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST