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: , , , , ,

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."

MassivelyGuy 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[Rise and Shiny: Dark Legends]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Legends screenshot
Dark Legends, the new title from mobile MMO king Spacetime Studios, is already creating a buzz with its liberal use of an energy pool that is sapped as players go through standard gameplay. If this mechanic were packaged any differently and inside a sandbox, it's possible that people would call it "realistic" or "hardcore." Unfortunately, problems set in as soon as players realized that playing the game for hours on end would require some infusion of real-life funds or the ability to kill pretty large chunks of time in non-combat areas.

I would argue that the gameplay does not have to be designed for marathon gaming sessions. It's very possible that the "casual" part of the game's description actually means "casual." I still had issues with the mechanic; don't get me wrong. But if I was bothered by anything it would be Dark Legends' lack of borrowing features from Pocket Legends, Spacetime's flagship mobile MMO, which offers actual persistent areas and other MMO staples.

Of course, it's possible that Spacetime is simply trying something new. Heaven forbid it should attempt a new design!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Dark Legends

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Dark Legends originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatMUDbeau-hindmanBioWareccpdark-legendseve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onlivestreammassively-tvmudrise-and-shinyspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamswtortwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 13 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Artist plagiarizes Guild Wars 2, World of Warcraft illustrators]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/04/artist-plagiarizes-guild-wars-2-world-of-warcraft-illustrators/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/04/artist-plagiarizes-guild-wars-2-world-of-warcraft-illustrators/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/04/artist-plagiarizes-guild-wars-2-world-of-warcraft-illustrators/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Concept art
If you're going to steal, steal big -- or so Romanian artist Iani Papadopol thought. Papadopol put on an exhibit called "UpDate 3D loading" featuring fantastic landscapes and scenery. The only problem? Instead of painting them himself, he ripped off several well-known illustrators, including ArenaNet's Daniel Dociu and Blizzard's Mathias Verhasselt, claiming the pieces as his own.

The fraud was discovered by online fans and local artists after the exhibit was broadcast on TV. Papadopol's works were found to be stunningly similar -- in fact, identical -- to those of famous video game illustrators. Papadopol attempted to sell the prints before he was caught. There's no word yet whether charges will be filed.

"I found out from my friends," Dociu, a fellow Romanian, said on a news channel. "I recognized four pieces of my work immediately. What upsets me is that he's also Romanian with an artistic background. I will not take legal action if he admits what he did."

Papadopol's father, the acclaimed artist Constantin Papadopol, says that this is a misunderstanding. In any case, let this be the lesson to the next lazy art thief: It's perhaps best not to rip off the guy whose work was on the cover of National Geographic.

MassivelyArtist plagiarizes Guild Wars 2, World of Warcraft illustrators originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetartart-theftblizzardblizzard-entertainmentconcept-artconcept-artistConstantin-PapadopolcrimeDaniel-Dociufantasyguild-wars-2gw2iani-PapadopolillustratorMathias-Verhasseltncsoftplaigarismtheftwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowFri, 04 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The week of April 14th]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/22/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-april-14th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On logo
So you accidentally missed your favorite MassivelyTV livestream featuring your favorite Massively personality or writer? Don't worry; we'll forgive you as long as you promise to bookmark our MassivelyTV guide and check back on this weekly recap. That way you are sure not to miss another stream, and you wouldn't need to come back to us, begging for a link. You could also follow Massively on Twitter, one of the best ways to be alerted to new things.

This week we featured a Tboo Thursday, one of our most popular livestreams, which stars resident APB: Reloaded expert Taryn. We also had some more World of Warcraft Mists of Pandaria action from Richie, a bit of newbie content in EverQuest II with MJ at the helm, a quick introduction to skybox building in Second Life hosted by me, Mike's return to EVE Online in his shiny new Drake, and Adventure Mike's leap back into Final Fantasy XIV. Pretty exciting stuff if you're into giant rats, explosions, beautiful sunsets, and piles of bullets.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of April 14th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of April 14th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apb-reloadedbeau-hindmanBlizzardccpEQ2eve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedffxivfinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playftpgamersfirstlinden-labLiveStreamLiveStreamingmassivelytvmists-of-pandariamj-guthriepreviously-on-mv-tvsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-EntertainmentSquare-Enixtwitchtwitch-tvvideoWorld-of-WarcraftSun, 22 Apr 2012 10:00:00 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: , , , ,

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]

MassivelyAPB: 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[MMObility: Dark Legends' cash shop, Thinix, and Parallel Mafia's launch]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/13/mmobility-dark-legends-cash-shop-thinix-and-parallel-mafias/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/13/mmobility-dark-legends-cash-shop-thinix-and-parallel-mafias/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/13/mmobility-dark-legends-cash-shop-thinix-and-parallel-mafias/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Legends screenshot
I know this is not what you want to hear if you are a fan of Spacetime Studios and were really excited about it new title, Dark Legends, but here goes: The energy mechanic that seems to have so many players upset is really not that bad at all. See, at some point many games decided to use a limited amount of energy to fuel character actions, and once it runs out, it seems like game over. It has always been the case (ever since Farmville first made the mechanic so popular that misguided gamers thought Zynga had somehow invented it) that energy in these sorts of games refills naturally, over time, for free.

I played through Dark Legends on launch night and was able to complete an entire campaign with some energy left over. Sure, I had to pause once to refill a couple of bars (they take five minutes each to refill), but other than that, I had no issues with it. If the energy becomes an issue at later levels, I do not know.

Let's not confuse things here: The energy mechanic in Dark Legends is nothing new, it's not a scam, and it does not force players to do anything. Allow me to explain, then we're moving on to other mobile MMO news.

Continue reading MMObility: Dark Legends' cash shop, Thinix, and Parallel Mafia's launch

MassivelyMMObility: Dark Legends' cash shop, Thinix, and Parallel Mafia's launch originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmandark-legendsfeaturedinspiron-duoIOSiphoneMMObilitymobileparallel-mafiaperbluespacetime-studiosthinixvideoFri, 13 Apr 2012 12:00:00 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: , , , ,

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.

MassivelyAPB: 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[MMObility: Parallel Mafia is not a typical Mafia game]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/16/mmobility-parallel-mafia-is-not-a-typical-mafia-game/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/16/mmobility-parallel-mafia-is-not-a-typical-mafia-game/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/16/mmobility-parallel-mafia-is-not-a-typical-mafia-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Parallel Mafia icon
If you have played Parallel Kingdom by PerBlue before, then a lot of what I am going to describe might sound familiar. If not, then it might sound very unique and exciting. The truth is that I have been attempting to get into Parallel Kingdom for a while but always found myself a bit overwhelmed, so I was excited to be invited to check out PerBlue's new title Parallel Mafia. I hoped that I might squeeze in some questions about Parallel Kingdom while I had the team on the line. Sure enough, I not only got introduced to the new title but left the interview knowing a lot more about Parallel Kingdom. I have been playing heavily since then. As I compare the two titles, I can see a lot of similarities, but there are some nice differences as well.

Both titles are location-based MMORPGs. I have always wanted more options in the genre, but I imagine it's a tough one to develop in. What's the point of the real-life connection? Why would players want to play in a game that is basically spawned on top of Google Maps?

Continue reading MMObility: Parallel Mafia is not a typical Mafia game

MassivelyMMObility: Parallel Mafia is not a typical Mafia game originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedfeaturedgoogle-mapsiOSiphonelocation-basedmafia-warsmmobilitymobileperbluepocket-legendssmartphonespacetime-studiosstar-legendsUltima-OnlineZyngaFri, 16 Mar 2012 14:00:00 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: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On logo
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

MassivelyPreviously 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[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: , , , ,

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]

MassivelyAPB 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: , , , , ,

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.

MassivelyGamersFirst 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[Newest version of GTA mod brings us one step closer to a GTA MMO]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/25/newest-version-of-gta-mod-bring-us-one-step-closer-to-a-gta-mmo/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/25/newest-version-of-gta-mod-bring-us-one-step-closer-to-a-gta-mmo/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/25/newest-version-of-gta-mod-bring-us-one-step-closer-to-a-gta-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

3563456765 car pile-up
If you're a fan of the classic Grand Theft Auto games (the popular ones, not the older ones that nobody played), then we may have some good news for you as an MMO player. A new update has been released for the Multi Theft Auto mod (v1.3) that introduces voice chat, bringing us that much closer to a true GTA MMO.

The wildly popular mod for GTA: San Andreas adds multiplayer functionality to the original Rockstar game, which was released just over seven years ago. It also includes a full map editor, dedicated Windows server package, and everything else you need to rat-a-tat-tat your friends in a simulated Dr. Dre album setting.

Sound like a good time? Check out a video sample after the jump, and head over to the official website for more info.

Continue reading Newest version of GTA mod brings us one step closer to a GTA MMO

MassivelyNewest version of GTA mod brings us one step closer to a GTA MMO originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogtamodmulti-theft-autonot-quite-an-mmo-but-almostrealer-than-real-deal-holyfieldsan-andreasWed, 25 Jan 2012 22:00:00 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: , , , , ,

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]

MassivelyAPB 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: , , , ,

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

Massively[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: , , , , ,

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]

MassivelyAPB: 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: , , , , , ,

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

MassivelyAPB: 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[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: , , , , , , ,

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

MassivelyFirst 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[CrimeCraft expansion to feature persistent territory control, quickplay options]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/18/crimecraft-expansion-to-feature-persistent-territory-control-qu/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/18/crimecraft-expansion-to-feature-persistent-territory-control-qu/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/18/crimecraft-expansion-to-feature-persistent-territory-control-qu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

CrimeCraft - two dudes shooting at one another
Remember CrimeCraft? We do, and the tragically titled actioner is still alive and kicking (or shooting, perhaps).

We bring this up because Vogster is readying its second major expansion, GangWars, which is scheduled to launch on December 5th. The update adds more of a traditional MMO feel to what is otherwise a lobby-based game. New territory wars mechanics are the culprit, and they allow gangs to own and control sections of the game's persistent Sunrise City environment.

Curiously, Vogster is also implementing a new quickplay system which offers access to CrimeCraft's "core gameplay features through a simplified interface that lets you shortcut RPG gameplay and get right to the action." CrimeCraft boasts 20 unique maps and 11 gameplay modes. Learn more about the game, and sign up for free, at the official website. Before you go, though, check out the territory wars trailer after the break.

[Source: Vogster press release]

Continue reading CrimeCraft expansion to feature persistent territory control, quickplay options

MassivelyCrimeCraft expansion to feature persistent territory control, quickplay options originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimecrimecraftcrimecraft-gangwarsexpansionf2pfree-to-playgangwarsmmo-shootermmofpspersistencepersistent-worldreal-lifeshooterterritory-warstrailervideovogstervogster-entertainmentFri, 18 Nov 2011 13:00:00 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: , , , , , , , , ,

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

MassivelyGamersFirst 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[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: , , , , , ,

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.

MassivelyThe 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