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[New DDO Menace of the Underdark video profiles Druid class]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/new-ddo-menace-of-the-underdark-video-profiles-druid-class/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/new-ddo-menace-of-the-underdark-video-profiles-druid-class/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/new-ddo-menace-of-the-underdark-video-profiles-druid-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - Druid wolf form
Turbine continues its Menace of the Underdark info blitz this morning with a new video centering on Dungeons and Dragons Online's maiden expansion. If you've been hiding in a troll cave for the last month, you may not be aware that the devs are taking players from Eberron to the Forgotten Realms starting on June 25th.

There's also a new Druid class, which is the focus of today's dev diary clip. Executive producer Fernando Paiz calls the Druid the single most requested feature by the DDO playerbase over the last six years. Click past the cut to learn more about the class and see if it measures up to your expectations.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Continue reading New DDO Menace of the Underdark video profiles Druid class

MassivelyNew DDO Menace of the Underdark video profiles Druid class originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-videodnddruiddruid-videodungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playmenace-of-the-underdarkmenace-of-the-underdark-videoturbineturbine-entertainmentvideoFri, 18 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/15/massively-speaking-episode-201-no-more-secrets/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World
Massively Speaking Episode 201 gets into all of your dirty little secrets -- not to mention Funcom's, as well! We're joined by Jef, who gives us the full scoop on The Secret World now that the NDA's come tumbling down. Will this be another Failcom or possibly a Fabulouscom? Only Jef knows, and he's highly resistant to torture and bribery.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

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Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 201: No more secrets originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionanetarenanetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrantbrian-greenbrian-psychchild-greenbrianna-roycebricksbrowserbrowser-basedddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineearthrisef2pfactionfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomguild-wars-2gw2historicalhorrorhumorjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromassively-speakingmastheadmasthead-studiosmythologynamastenamaste-entertainmentnamaste-incncsoftnew-englandopinionparadoxparadox-interactivepermadeathpgcplayer-generated-contentpodcastpodcastingpodcastspsychochildsalemsandboxsci-fantasysci-fisecret-worldskill-basedstorybricksthe-secret-worldtswturbineturbine-entertainmentvirtual-worldwarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 201Massively.com Staff01:03:33podcasts'; listPost['ItunesChannelHTML'] = 'Shawn Schuster and Rubi BayerMassively Speaking is your weekly look into the latest issues concerning MMOs. Join your hosts Shawn and Rubi, along with various members of the Massively staff and industry professionals, for insight and commentary involving all things massively, multiplayer and online<![CDATA[Druids, Drow, and destinies in an epic DDO expansion tour]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/druids-drow-and-destinies-in-an-epic-ddo-expansion-tour/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/druids-drow-and-destinies-in-an-epic-ddo-expansion-tour/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/druids-drow-and-destinies-in-an-epic-ddo-expansion-tour/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

DDO
On Thursday, Turbine will take the wraps off of Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark and commence with the closed beta. It's a heady time for both the team and playerbase, as this 2007 title steps into the big leagues of expansion-holding MMOs. And because we know you hate waiting for all the goods, we joined Turbine on the test server for an advance look at some of the hottest features coming with June's launch.

On the phone with us was Senior Producer Eric Boyer, Community Specialist Amanda Grove, and Design Director Ian Currie. "We want to show players how big the expansion pack is and how much it'll be changing the game," Boyer began, telling us that levels one through 20 were merely "heroic" -- now it'll be time to make the move into epic territory.

From a look at the much-anticipated Druid and the previously vague Epic Destinies to a lightning tour of your first day in the Forgotten Realms, the team was out to convince us that Menace of the Underdark is fully worthy of the "expansion" moniker. How's it looking so far? Take a look for yourself!

Continue reading Druids, Drow, and destinies in an epic DDO expansion tour

MassivelyDruids, Drow, and destinies in an epic DDO expansion tour originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amanda-grovebetacharacter-customizationddodnddrowdruiddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronepic-destiniesepic-destinyepic-destiny-systemeric-boyerEveningStarexpansionf2pfantasyfate-pointsforgotten-realmsfree-to-playhands-onian-currielevel-cap-increaselord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromenace-of-the-underdarkmoriapreviewthe-darkeningturbineturbine-entertainmenttwist-of-fateuiupdate-15wolf-packWed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO's Menace of the Underdark expansion beta starts May 10th]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/ddos-menace-of-the-underdark-expansion-beta-starts-may-10th/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/ddos-menace-of-the-underdark-expansion-beta-starts-may-10th/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/ddos-menace-of-the-underdark-expansion-beta-starts-may-10th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - when dark elves attack
Last week we showed you some screenshots of Eveningstar, a new town in Dungeons and Dragons Online's upcoming Menace of the Underdark expansion. Today Turbine has released four additional shots taken in and around the small settlement that greets players as they transition from Eberron to the Forgotten Realms.

Turbine has also told us that the expansion closed beta will kick off on May 10th. The testing period will be exclusive to pre-order purchasers of MotU, so head to the official DDO site to learn more!

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyDDO's Menace of the Underdark expansion beta starts May 10th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-expansionddo-gallerydnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveningstarf2pfantasyfree-to-playgallerymenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentThu, 03 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See Eveningstar under siege in new DDO expansion screenshots]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/25/see-eveningstar-under-siege-in-new-ddo-expansion-screenshots/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/25/see-eveningstar-under-siege-in-new-ddo-expansion-screenshots/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/25/see-eveningstar-under-siege-in-new-ddo-expansion-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - Eveningstar under siege
Another week, another set of screenshots for Dungeons and Dragons Online's new Menace of the Underdark expansion. This time around, we've got two new areas to explore: the town of Eveningstar (and some night battles set therein) and the Ruins of Temple Mystra.

DDO players can check these areas out after leaving Eberron behind and stepping into Turbine's version of the beloved Forgotten Realms campaign setting. The expansion, DDO's first, is slated for June 25th. Head to the official website for more, but not before you peruse our screenshot gallery below.

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark


[Source: Turbine press release]

MassivelySee Eveningstar under siege in new DDO expansion screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-expansionddo-gallerydnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveningstarexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesmenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentWed, 25 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine talks Eberron vs. Forgotten realms in new DDO video]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/20/turbine-talks-eberron-vs-forgotten-realms-in-new-ddo-video/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/20/turbine-talks-eberron-vs-forgotten-realms-in-new-ddo-video/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/20/turbine-talks-eberron-vs-forgotten-realms-in-new-ddo-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - spider queen
Turbine has released the next installment in its Menace of the Underdark dev diary series. The video clip runs for two-and-a-half minutes and features various developer personalities discussing Dungeons and Dragons Online's jump from one fantasy world to another.

"It's really important to us that Faerun feels unique and is more true to the classic high-fantasy setting," says producer Fernando Paiz. Whereas Eberron featured elements of fantasy-tech and magicpunk, the Forgotten Realms is one of the more iconic and traditional high fantasy settings around. As such, Turbine says, it has collaborated closely with Wizards of the Coast to ensure the authenticity of the expansion experience.

So what is the link between these two different realms? In a word, Lolth, the drow spider-queen goddess who is powerful enough to connect the worlds. Turbine remains mum on the specifics, though, so you'll have to check out the expansion to see for yourself.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Continue reading Turbine talks Eberron vs. Forgotten realms in new DDO video

MassivelyTurbine talks Eberron vs. Forgotten realms in new DDO video originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beyond-the-gamebeyond-the-web-trailerddoddo-expansionddo-expansion-videoddo-videodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playmagicpunkmenace-of-the-underdarkmenace-of-the-underdark-videoturbineturbine-entertainmentvideoFri, 20 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeons & Dragons Online invites players to build a guild]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/19/dungeons-and-dragons-online-invites-players-to-build-a-guild/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/19/dungeons-and-dragons-online-invites-players-to-build-a-guild/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/19/dungeons-and-dragons-online-invites-players-to-build-a-guild/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Fight the Drow, fight random strangers in a bar. Either one.
If you're going to take on the Drow in Dungeons & Dragons Online, you're going to need help. You'll need allies, people you can count on no matter what. In other words, you need a guild. That means recruiting some good players -- and the new Build Your Guild event is aimed at giving players incentives for just that. Running until late June, the event offers players two different ways to gain fantastic advantages just by being in a guild.

All players can gain extra experience and loot by grouping with fellow guild members, whether you're a new player or an old hand. You can also gain special bounties for reaching leveling milestones, which grants bonus guild renown and astral diamonds. Last but not least, guilds will randomly be rewarded a variety of prizes during the length of the event, culminating with a level 85 airship in late June. The event should provide plenty of incentive for players to work together in a guild, and if you happen to get some prizes along the way, so much the better.

MassivelyDungeons & Dragons Online invites players to build a guild originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>build-your-guildddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playguildguildsin-game-eventsnewpromotionsturbineturbine-entertainmentThu, 19 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine shows off new DDO expansion beasties]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/17/turbine-shows-off-new-ddo-expansion-beasties/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/17/turbine-shows-off-new-ddo-expansion-beasties/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/17/turbine-shows-off-new-ddo-expansion-beasties/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - dire carebear
Those coy devils at Turbine have released another batch of screenshots hyping the upcoming expansion pack for Dungeons and Dragons Online. As you're probably aware, the Menace of the Underdark update will transport players from Eberron to the Forgotten Realms. As such, there are certain iconic D&D monsters that simply must make an appearance.

Chief among these are the drider, the dire bear, the green dragon, and the draegloth. We've got these and a few more available for your perusal in our DDO gallery below, so give them a good look before you head to the game's official site for more info on the expansion. And hurry up already; the new content is coming June 25th!

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyTurbine shows off new DDO expansion beasties originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-expansiondnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgallerymenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentxpacTue, 17 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New DDO trailer goes behind the scenes on Underdark expansion]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/11/new-ddo-trailer-goes-behind-the-scenes-on-underdark-expansion/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/11/new-ddo-trailer-goes-behind-the-scenes-on-underdark-expansion/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/11/new-ddo-trailer-goes-behind-the-scenes-on-underdark-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - Menace of the Underdark combat
Can't get enough of Turbine's new Dungeons and Dragons Online expansion, eh? We can't either, and fortunately the firm has released a new trailer that takes us behind the scenes on the making of the Menace of the Underdark content.

The clip features producer Fernando Paiz, who calls the expansion the largest content push in the game's six-year history. Since the expansion is delving into a new IP (the Forgotten Realms, as opposed to DDO's original Eberron setting), the devs have had to adjust their thinking in terms of both content and art direction. Turbine's Jeff De Puy says that "almost all the monsters [the devs are] creating for Forgotten Realms are epically large and big."

How epically large and big? You'll have to click past the cut and view the video to find out.

Continue reading New DDO trailer goes behind the scenes on Underdark expansion

MassivelyNew DDO trailer goes behind the scenes on Underdark expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art-directionbeyond-the-webbeyond-the-web-trailerddoddo-beyond-the-webddo-expansiondnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionf2pfantasyfernando-paizforgotten-realmsfree-to-playjeff-de-puymenace-of-the-underdarkturbineturbine-entertainmentvideoWed, 11 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East 2012: Menace of the Underdark brings big changes to Dungeons and Dragons Online]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-menace-of-the-underdark-brings-big-changes-to-dun/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-menace-of-the-underdark-brings-big-changes-to-dun/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/07/pax-east-2012-menace-of-the-underdark-brings-big-changes-to-dun/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online concept art
Dungeons and Dragons Online players are in for a whole new world of adventure when Menace of the Underdark launches this summer. The expansion, due to release on June 25th, will send players into the Forgotten Realms to fight against the Queen of Spiders, Lolth. Executive Producer Fernando Paiz and Senior Producer Eric Boyer welcomed us into their lair... er, Turbine's booth... to talk about the upcoming expansion at this year's PAX East. Read on for our preview!

Continue reading PAX East 2012: Menace of the Underdark brings big changes to Dungeons and Dragons Online

MassivelyPAX East 2012: Menace of the Underdark brings big changes to Dungeons and Dragons Online originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conconventionddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeric-boyerexpansionexpof2pfantasyfeaturedfernando-paizfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsmenace-of-the-underdarkpaxpax-2012pax-eastpax-east-2012penny-arcade-expopreviewpreviewsturbineturbine-entertainmentSat, 07 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: MMO tributes to real-life people]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/05/the-perfect-ten-mmo-tributes-to-real-life-people/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/05/the-perfect-ten-mmo-tributes-to-real-life-people/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/05/the-perfect-ten-mmo-tributes-to-real-life-people/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
When a beloved friend, family member, hero, or role model dies, we feel the pain of that loss and grieve in many different ways. Part of that grieving and healing process is often entails those left behind constructing some sort of tribute to the dearly departed. Sometimes this comes in the form of a shrine of flowers, sometimes it's the establishment of a charity, and sometimes it's creating an in-game memorial that thousands if not millions of people will see over the course of years.

So while death and illness are depressing topics to dwell upon, I find the many MMO tributes that studios and even gamers have erected to be inspiring and a celebration of individual players' lives. With the help of my fellow Massively staffers, I researched 10 wonderful in-game tributes that serve to honor the lives of fellow gamers.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: MMO tributes to real-life people

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: MMO tributes to real-life people originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionahab-wheathoofAnthony-StarkArmando-Ossexbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcamelotCaylee-Dakcity-of-heroescity-of-villainsclassic-mmocohcovcoxcoyoted-and-dDak-Krausedanieldaniels-questdaocdark-age-of-camelotdave-arnesonddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artsEmilyeqeq1everquesteverquest-iiezraezra-chattertonezra-wheathooff2pfantasyfeaturedFrank-Campbellfree-to-playfreedomgalaxiesgary-gygaxhumorjeff-freemanJesse-Moraleskylelord-britishlunar-festivalmake-a-wishmake-a-wish-foundationmatthew-braggmemorialMichel-Koitermythicmythic-entertainmentmythologyncsoftopinionp10paragonparagon-studiosperfect-10perfect-tenphoenixpvpribbitribbitRobert-Bridenbeckerrounduprvrsandboxsci-fishrinesoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-galaxiessuperherosuperheroesswgswgothe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenTony-Starktop-10top-10-listtop-tentop-ten-listtributeturbineturbine-entertainmentultimaultima onlineuowarcraftworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 05 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine releases new DDO expansion screens, shows off Eveningstar cavern]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/27/turbine-releases-new-ddo-expansion-screens-shows-off-eveningsta/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/27/turbine-releases-new-ddo-expansion-screens-shows-off-eveningsta/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/27/turbine-releases-new-ddo-expansion-screens-shows-off-eveningsta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons & Dragons Online - Eveningstar cavern
A new Menace of the Underdark update is here, and no, we're not talking about the latest antics of elected officials in EVE Online. You're probably aware by now that Turbine is branching out its Dungeons & Dragons Online foothold to include portions of the beloved Forgotten Realms campaign setting. Players crossing over from Eberron to the Realms will first encounter a mystical forest cavern underneath the new Eveningstar region. Turbine has released a handful of screenshots to show off the new zone, and we've collected them for you in the gallery below.

The MotU expansion is due on June 25th, and in it, adventurers will explore the "vast subterranean world of the underdark" as well as play around with a new Druid class and an increased level cap.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyTurbine releases new DDO expansion screens, shows off Eveningstar cavern originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveningstareveningstar-cavernexpansionf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 27 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New DUST 514 screenshots dropping from orbit]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/26/new-dust-514-screenshots-dropping-from-orbit/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/26/new-dust-514-screenshots-dropping-from-orbit/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/26/new-dust-514-screenshots-dropping-from-orbit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- DUST 514
The 2012 edition of EVE Online Fanfest has come and gone, and it went off (mostly) without a hitch, but that doesn't mean that the DUST 514 hypestorm is done -- not by a long shot. Eurogamer has some brand-spankin'-new screenshots of the upcoming PlayStation 3 FPS hot off the press from Fanfest.

The shots cover everything from vehicle renders, combat, and of course, a disturbingly large number of explosions. The full gallery of new screenies is available over at Eurogamer, so just meander on over that way to take a look for yourselves.

MassivelyNew DUST 514 screenshots dropping from orbit originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpccp-gamesconsoledustdust-514eveeve-onlineeve-online-fanfest-2012fpsmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3screenshotscreenshotsshooterMon, 26 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine reveals shape-shifting DDO Druid class]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/20/turbine-reveals-shape-shifting-ddo-druid-class/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/20/turbine-reveals-shape-shifting-ddo-druid-class/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/20/turbine-reveals-shape-shifting-ddo-druid-class/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - Druid shapeshifting
Turbine has a present for all you would-be shape-shifters out there, and it takes the form of the new Druid class coming with Dungeons and Dragons Online's new Menace of the Underdark expansion.

The content drops on June 25th, and the Druid will be available as a premium playable class (and free to VIPs). The Druid is primarily a caster, but he's also proficient with daggers, sickles, staves, and clubs. His signature ability allows him to transform into a winter wolf, a dire bear, a water elemental, or a fire elemental. Each shape has its own set of spells, and the class also features a Druidic oath that boosts resistances to entanglement, poison, and other natural ailments.

More info on the expansion is available via Turbine's official website.

[Source: Turbine press release]

MassivelyTurbine reveals shape-shifting DDO Druid class originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesddodnddruiddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionsf2pfantasyforgotten-realmsfree-to-playmenace-of-the-underdarkshape-shiftingshapeshifterturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Gaikai
Imagine that you're reading up on an MMO on a site such as Massively (far-fetched, but stay with us on this). The words intrigue you and you think it might be worth checking out. You make a mental note to do so in the future -- to head over to the game's site, see if there's a trial, download it, set up an account, and give it a whirl -- but time gets away from you and none of that actually happens.

Now imagine that right after you read that article there was a single button or link. Clicking on it, a Java window opens up on top of your screen and tells you that you're now playing a trial of the game. There's no wait, no download, no lengthy form to fill out -- just click and play, right away. You go from interested to inside the game within mere seconds, your computer specs (mostly) aren't an issue, and your curiosity is immediately sated.

This isn't a far-fetched dream but the here-and-now reality. This is cloud-streaming MMOs brought to you by Gaikai. And it just might be the future of MMOs as we know it.

Continue reading Gaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser

MassivelyGaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2moonsacclaimactivisionage-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-unchainedbest-buyblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowser-mmochronicles-of-spellborncloudcloud-streamingconandave-perryddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaea-originearthworm-jimf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playfuncomgaikaigaikai-inchyboriaipadkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrostreaming-mmothe-darknessturbineturbine-entertainmentunchainedwalmartwarcraftwbwizard101world-of-warcraftwowyoutubeWed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 192: When it's ready]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/13/massively-speaking-episode-192-when-its-ready/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/13/massively-speaking-episode-192-when-its-ready/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/13/massively-speaking-episode-192-when-its-ready/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Diablo III
Massively Speaking Episode 192 recovers from the aftermath of last week's GDC, as Justin and Bree regain full mic privileges and prepare to sing a duet in celebration. In this episode, we wrap up the GDC craziness, talk about Diablo III's PvP circumcision, and celebrate the release of a couple of significant patches.

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Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 192: When it's ready

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 192: When it's ready originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrantbrianna-roycecash-shopconconferenceconsoleconsolesconventiond3ddodiablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiidnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaelectronic-artsf2pfantasyfeaturedffff14ffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfree-to-playgame-developers-conferencegame-developers-conference-2012gdcgdc-2012gothic-fantasyhumorjustin-olivettilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolucasartsmassively-speakingmultiplayeronline-multiplayeropinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastsprius-onlineroguelikerpgsci-fisquaresquare-enixstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 13 Mar 2012 15:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 192Massively.com Staff01:07:51podcasts'; listPost['ItunesChannelHTML'] = 'Shawn Schuster and Rubi BayerMassively Speaking is your weekly look into the latest issues concerning MMOs. Join your hosts Shawn and Rubi, along with various members of the Massively staff and industry professionals, for insight and commentary involving all things massively, multiplayer and online<![CDATA[LotRO and DDO coming to a cloud near you]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/08/lotro-and-ddo-coming-to-a-cloud-near-you/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/08/lotro-and-ddo-coming-to-a-cloud-near-you/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/08/lotro-and-ddo-coming-to-a-cloud-near-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

LotRO
Cloud-based gaming service Gaikai, Inc. and Warner Bros. Interactive have just announced a plan to stream Lord of the Rings Online and Dungeons and Dragons Online gameplay via browser. Players will be able to feed their impulse gaming by hopping into both hybrid free-to-play MMOs without any lengthy downloads or huge installations. According to a press release distributed today,
Gamers can try The Lord of the Rings Online now, with Dungeons & Dragons Online to follow soon [...] via a simple one-step registration process that will provide them instant access to try the full version of the award-winning, free-to-play massively multiplayer experiences.
A Turbine FAQ further clarifies that this service provides only one hour of gameplay. [Thanks to reader Mr. Angry for the heads up.]

This marks the first MMO streaming Gaikai will have undertaken; its streaming portfolio includes non-MMO games like Spore, Mass Effect 2, and The Sims 3.

[Source: Warner Bros. and Gaikai, Inc. press release]

MassivelyLotRO and DDO coming to a cloud near you originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbrowserddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playgaikaigaikai-inclord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrostreamstreamingstreaming-gameplayturbineturbine-entertainmentWarner-BrosWarner-Bros-InteractiveThu, 08 Mar 2012 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine enlists Chance Thomas to score LotRO, DDO expansions]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/06/turbine-enlists-chance-thomas-to-score-lotro-ddo-expansions/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/06/turbine-enlists-chance-thomas-to-score-lotro-ddo-expansions/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/06/turbine-enlists-chance-thomas-to-score-lotro-ddo-expansions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chance Thomas
If you were disappointed by the absence of new music in Lord of the Rings Online's last couple of expansions, then today is a good opportunity to break out the headphones in celebration. Composer Chance Thomas has announced that Turbine contracted him to create an "all-original orchestral, choral and acoustic ensemble score" for this fall's Riders of Rohan.

It's not just LotRO audiophiles who have cause to rejoice, either: Thomas is also on board with creating the music for Dungeons and Dragons Online's first expansion, Menace of the Underdark.

Thomas' career in video game music dates back to the late '90s with Quest for Glory V. LotRO players know him best as one of the composers for both Shadows of Angmar and Mines of Moria. Menace of the Underdark will release June 25th, while Riders of Rohan is scheduled for some time this fall.

MassivelyTurbine enlists Chance Thomas to score LotRO, DDO expansions originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chance-thomascomposerddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineexpansionexpansionsf2pfantasyfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromenace-of-the-underdarkmines-of-moriamusicriders-of-rohanscoreshadows-of-angmarsoundtrackturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 06 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 188: Podcasting on two hours of sleep]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/02/28/massively-speaking-episode-188-podcasting-on-two-hours-of-sleep/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/28/massively-speaking-episode-188-podcasting-on-two-hours-of-sleep/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/28/massively-speaking-episode-188-podcasting-on-two-hours-of-sleep/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World
Massively Speaking Episode 188 wants you to know that colds are the pits -- and sleep ninja babies are just wicked to the core. But your intrepid hosts soldier through massive sleep deprivation to bring you garfle monkey shuffles! Also, popcorn purple Qwerty.

Have a comment for the podcasters? Shoot an email to podcast@massively.com. We may just read your email on the air!

Get the podcast:
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Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 188: Podcasting on two hours of sleep

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 188: Podcasting on two hours of sleep originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionddodungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveeve-onlinefeaturedguild-wars-2gw2massively-metamassively-speakingoriginalpodcastsoeterathe-secret-worldtswtwitterTue, 28 Feb 2012 14:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 188Massively.com Staff54:16podcasts'; listPost['ItunesChannelHTML'] = 'Shawn Schuster and Rubi BayerMassively Speaking is your weekly look into the latest issues concerning MMOs. Join your hosts Shawn and Rubi, along with various members of the Massively staff and industry professionals, for insight and commentary involving all things massively, multiplayer and online<![CDATA[DDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/27/going-inside-dungeons-and-dragons-online-menace-of-the-underdar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

DDO Menace of the Underdark
Speaking of Guinness World Records for video games, I wonder whether Dungeons and Dragons Online would be eligible for "Longest time between game release and launch of its first expansion?" Six years may just be the longest we've ever witnessed, as DDO released in 2006, and it wasn't until 2012 that Menace of the Underdark was revealed. The good news is that come June 25th, the drought will be over.

We asked Turbine why now seemed like a good time for an expansion. The devs said that Atari had made some noise back in the day about one, but it never came to fruition. With the success of free-to-play, Turbine wanted to see whether the expansion model was still viable, so Lord of the Rings Online was chosen as a test subject. When Rise of Isengard became the best-selling expansion for the company, the company felt secure letting DDO have a chance, although there was quite a lot of wrangling with Wizards of the Coast about the details and permissions.

Record or no, it's an exciting event for DDO players, and the today, Turbine has announced the two biggest details for the expansion's schedule. The first is that Menace of the Underdark has a release date, and the second is the opening of pre-orders. Read on to get all of the juicy infos.

Continue reading DDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders

MassivelyDDO's Menace of the Underdark releasing June 25th, opens up pre-orders originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baldurs-gateddodruiddruid-classdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeberronepic-destiniesf2pfeaturedFernando-Paizforgotten-realmsfree-to-playmenace-of-the-underdarkneverwinter-nightspre-orderpreorderra-Salvatoretome-of-learningturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-12update-13update-14wizards-of-the-coastwotcMon, 27 Feb 2012 08:15:00 EST