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[Previously on MV TV: The week of May 12th]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-may-12th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Previously On banner
What a week of livestreaming! We've got quite the variety and tons of hours of video to watch. What's that? You had to work and missed half of the cool streams we showed? Don't worry! I gather all of the best streams from the week's collection and list them for you right here. Still, you need to bookmark our livestream page so you can see which videos are going to be shown during the week, but if you miss any, you can check out the recap here. That's why we do it.

This week we had a lot to offer. First we had good old Mike jumping into EVE Online for some space action, then into TERA for some scantily clad combat! He then explores some of the great browser-based game Drakensang Online. MJ brought a ton of goodies to the streaming table, goodies like a run-through in EverQuest II, some base-jumping in City of Heroes, a bit of hardcore survival in Xsyon, and a flight around the beautiful lands of Aion. I rounded out the end by streaming some BatMUD, a cool MUD that has been around since many of you have been in diapers!

Click past the cut and grab some popcorn. Keep the butter light but add some salt. Thanks.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The week of May 12th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The week of May 12th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionBatMUDBigpointblueholebluehole-studiosbrowser-basedccpccp-gamescity-of-heroescity-of-villainscohcovcoxdrakensangdrakensang-onlineen-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iiEQ2eqiieveeve-onlineEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfreedominternet-spaceshipslivestreamingmassively-streamteammassively-tvmudmv-tvmvtvnc-softncsoftnotoriousnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-studiospost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpround-uproundupsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiSOEsonySony-Online-Entertainmentspreadsheets-onlinestreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamsuperherosuperheroesteratruly-freetwitchtwitch-tvvideovideosxsyonSun, 20 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Conquer Online 9th anniversary celebrations include a free trip to China]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/conquer-online-9th-anniversary-celebrations-include-a-free-trip/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/conquer-online-9th-anniversary-celebrations-include-a-free-trip/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/conquer-online-9th-anniversary-celebrations-include-a-free-trip/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Conquer Online image
Reaching the nine-year mark is quite an accomplishment in the MMO world, and Conquer Online plans to celebrate this milestone in style with a number of special events, bonuses, and gifts both in-game and out. From now through May 31st, players can enjoy a variety of festivities and goodies:
Oh, but that's not all!
  • The pièce de résistance: Three lucky current Conquer Online players will win a free trip to China to take in the sights of Beijing and visit the TQ headquarters.
To enter the drawing, players must credit at least one $15.99 or one $29.99 TQ Point Card during the period between May 15th and June 30th (the more you credit, the more chances you have), have at least one level 50+ character, and be at least 18 years of age. For full details, check out the contest rules.

[Source: Press release]

MassivelyConquer Online 9th anniversary celebrations include a free trip to China originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryanniversary-eventanniversary-eventsanniversary-giftsChinaconquer-onlinediscountseventsfantasyfree-to-playfree-tripmartial-artsmartial-arts-mmoNetDragonspecial-discountstqveteran-rewardsFri, 18 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Archlord hosts first combined server guild tournament]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/archlord-hosts-first-combined-server-guild-tournament/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/archlord-hosts-first-combined-server-guild-tournament/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/archlord-hosts-first-combined-server-guild-tournament/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Archlord
Plenty of guilds talk the big talk and DPS the raid meters, but when the chips are down and the final call is uttered, which one guild will stand on top of the mountain of geek corpses and be proclaimed "Champion?" In most MMOs, that would be rhetorical nonsense, but not in Archlord, where guilds will compete in the first World Guild Championship to earn a $10,000 prize and the recognition of their peers.

The game's first combined server guild tournament kicks off on June 11th and features pitched PvP battles between guilds to climb the bracket and claim the big prize. All participants will be given a preset character with standard gear in order to minimize any in-game advantages.

In order to preregister for the tournament, guilds will have to complete a special in-game quest. Registration for the World Guild Championship runs from now through May 30th, with the official brackets announced a few days later on June 4th.

Archlord will be hosting special in-game events and handing out fun prizes for everyone during this time.

MassivelyArchlord hosts first combined server guild tournament originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archlordbracketchampionshipcontesteventf2pfree-to-playguild-pvpin-game-eventpvppvp-tournamenttournamentwebzenworld-guild-championshipworld-vs-worldThu, 17 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DUST 514 handing out first beta keys tomorrow [Updated]]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/dust-514-handing-out-first-beta-keys-tomorrow/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/dust-514-handing-out-first-beta-keys-tomorrow/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/dust-514-handing-out-first-beta-keys-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

DUST 514
Did you drop your name into CCP Games' hat as a potential tester for DUST 514? Then tomorrow might be a lovely day for you, as the studio is emailing out the first round of closed beta keys for registered participants after a short delay from its original key-handing-out schedule.

It is unknown how many keys will be sent out and to whom. Last month, CCP told Fanfest attendees that they would be among the first to test the anticipated MMOFPS. The DUST 514 website states that the studio is sending out Fanfest keys first and keys to standard registered players "soon after."

To celebrate the release of the closed beta keys, CCP is holding a "special event" over the weekend. The details of this event are forthcoming.

[Update: CCP has confirmed that beta registration has begun today and that EVE players and Fanfest attendees will get first pick.]

MassivelyDUST 514 handing out first beta keys tomorrow [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-keybeta-keysccpccp-gamesclosed-betaconsoledustdust-514eveeve-onlineeventfanfestfanfest-2012fpsin-game-eventmmofpsplaystationplaystation-3ps3shooterweekend-eventThu, 17 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next beta weekend for The Secret World announced]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/next-beta-weekend-for-the-secret-world-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I maintain that this really isn't all that unusual for New England.
If you enjoyed the first peek into the secrets of Funcom's upcoming game, you'll be happy to know that The Secret World's second beta event has already been announced. The next weekend event starts on May 18th at noon EDT and runs until May 21st at 3:00 a.m. EDT. Several European sites will be giving away keys for this particular beta, but players who have pre-ordered the game beforehand will automatically have access to this event.

The new event will feature a number of new areas, quests, and storylines. Players can learn more about the residents of Kingsmouth who have held out despite the town's current state as well as meet representatives of the Orochi Corporation observing the dark occurrences. Plus, all of the previous weekend's content will be available, so if you didn't get a chance to take part in the last test, you'll have plenty to explore within the horror-filled world.

MassivelyNext beta weekend for The Secret World announced originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-testbeta-testsbeta-weekendeventsfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorin-game-eventsmythologynewssci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedtest-weekendtesting-eventsthe-secret-worldtswMon, 14 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/maplestory-celebrates-its-seventh-anniversary-with-experience-bo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

MapleStory 7th Anniversary
Do you feel lucky, MapleStory players? You should, because Nexon is celebrating the game's lucky seventh anniversary, and the studio is passing the good fortune on to the players with a series of in-game events and double experience weekends.

For the duration of the month, players will be treated not only to double experience and drops every weekend, but they'll also be able to take part in events such as the Maple Rising Star Contest, which requires players to complete tasks to show support for their favorite NPC contestant. And of course, no anniversary would be complete without a visit from the deliciously vicious Cake Boss monster, which combines a challenging battle and a tasty treat into one mutant monstrosity. To put the icing on the proverbial cake, Nexon has released a short anniversary trailer that recaps the major MapleStory events of the past year, so put on your party hats and join the festivities after the cut.

[Source: Nexon America press release]

Continue reading MapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters

MassivelyMapleStory celebrates its seventh anniversary with experience bonuses and cake monsters originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7th-anniversaryanniversarydouble-experience-weekenddouble-xpdouble-xp-weekenddouble-xp-weekendseventsf2pfantasyfree-to-playin-game-eventin-game-eventsmaplestorynexonnexon-americanexon-koreaseventh-anniversarytrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 11 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TERA prepares for political machinations]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/tera-prepares-for-political-machinations/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/tera-prepares-for-political-machinations/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/tera-prepares-for-political-machinations/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

TERA
If you've thought that a bit of political campaigning and intrigue was all that was missing from your complete enjoyment of TERA, have we got good news for you. It's almost time for the vanarch election wheel to start a-turnin', so start polishing your speeches!

Players elected to the vanarch position will reign for three weeks over their province. Vanarchs get to turn their whimsy into mandate by setting and collecting taxes and choosing which specialty shops to open up. They'll also be accruing fame (or infamy) for themselves and their guilds. Of course, not just anyone is worthy to rule o'er the masses: In order to be eligible, candidates must be the leader of a level three guild with at least 20 members, must have reached at least level 50 on their character, and must pay a fee of 3,000 gold and 100 Catharnach Awards.

Sound like you? Registration for vanarch candidates opens up on Friday, May 18th, at 9:00 p.m. EDT and runs 'til Friday, May 25th, at 9:00 p.m. EDT. After registration week comes a week of voting, and then three weeks of sweet, sweet power. Registration for the following reign opens up in the second week of the on-going vanarch's office, so if you're interested in getting to the top and staying there, you don't have a lot of time to rest on your laurels.

If the mantle of power isn't made for your shoulders but you still want to flex your political muscle, be sure to vote! Each game account gets one vote per continent on a given server. Are your fingers itching for a ballot? Next week TERA's game guide will be updated with some more juicy details on the political system. Knowledge, after all, is power.

MassivelyTERA prepares for political machinations originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueholebluehole-studioselectionen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasypoliticsterav-for-vanarchyvanarchvanarch-electionvanarchyFri, 11 May 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter at Your Own Rift: Rift evolution]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/enter-at-your-own-rift-rift-evolution/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/enter-at-your-own-rift-rift-evolution/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/enter-at-your-own-rift-rift-evolution/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

rift
RIFT has seen a great deal of new content and features over the past year, and each update tends to generate a lot of buzz about things like new raid zones, new warzones, world events, and yes, even fishing. But there have been quite a few subtle (and not so subtle) changes to the core of the game -- that is, the rifts themselves. Last summer, Justin wrote a great piece wondering whether rifts were in "danger of collapsing," and his point was that they were a good idea on paper but needed tweaks in order to stay relevant to the game.

It's worth looking back at the evolution of rifts over the past year to see what's changed since launch day. Read on for a look at what's new with rifts!

Continue reading Enter at Your Own Rift: Rift evolution

MassivelyEnter at Your Own Rift: Rift evolution originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ember-isleenter-at-your-own-riftfantasyfeaturedkaren-bryanopinionriftrift-planes-of-telarariftsshimmersandtelaratriontrion-worldszone-eventsWed, 09 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World announces first beta weekend]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/08/the-secret-world-announces-first-beta-weekend/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/08/the-secret-world-announces-first-beta-weekend/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/08/the-secret-world-announces-first-beta-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Screenshot -- The Secret World
Beta weekends are all the rage these days, and now Funcom is getting in on the action. The studio has announced that its upcoming fantasy-horror MMO, The Secret World, will be the subject of a series of weekend beta tests, the first of which is beginning this weekend.

From Friday until Sunday, players who were lucky enough to get their hands on beta keys via preorders or giveaways will be able to jump into the boots of a Templar initiate. After undergoing the proper procedures for joining the less-than-secretive secret organization, players will be whisked away to Solomon Island, New England, where they will be tasked with finding the source of the ancient evil threatening Kingsmouth. The full details of the beta weekend, including a handy-dandy FAQ, can be found over at The Secret World's official site.

MassivelyThe Secret World announces first beta weekend originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-weekendbeta-weekendsbetascbtclosed-beta-weekendfactionfantasyfuncomhorrorkingsmouthmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedsolomon-islandtemplarthe-secret-worldtswTue, 08 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Once more into the rift, my friends]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/07/wings-over-atreia-once-more-into-the-rift-my-friends/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/07/wings-over-atreia-once-more-into-the-rift-my-friends/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/07/wings-over-atreia-once-more-into-the-rift-my-friends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia
A rifting we will go
A rifting we will go
Hi-ho, the derry-o
A rifting we will go!

The Asmo makes a slice!
The Asmo makes a slice...

Ahh, the frivolity of travel songs; they entertain and amuse as well as pass the time while you're en route to your destination, even in Aion. And where am I headed while chanting this little ditty? Why, deep into the dangers of enemy territory, of course! Care to join me?

If you haven't traveled through a rift in Aion, you are missing out on one of the core features of the game, not to mention depriving yourself of some fun. Admittedly, rifting has a bad rap and can be quite a polarizing topic in discussion, but don't be fooled -- it's not just for PvPers. Not everyone who rifts is looking to completely gank others; even carebears can experience and enjoy the thrill of sneaking somewhere fraught with dangers! So what's stopping you from slipping through that colorful swirl?

Let me borrow the immortal words of wisdom from a shoe: Just do it! But before you go, let Wings Over Atreia offer a few handy tips to help you make the most of the experience.

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Once more into the rift, my friends

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Once more into the rift, my friends originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionAPbroken-allianceeventf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playhaving-funhintshumorin-game-eventin-game-eventsncsoftopinionPvPriftingrifting-eventtipstips-and-trickswings-over-atreiaMon, 07 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: Seven player events you must attend]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/05/the-road-to-mordor-seven-player-events-you-must-attend/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/05/the-road-to-mordor-seven-player-events-you-must-attend/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/05/the-road-to-mordor-seven-player-events-you-must-attend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

LotRO
More than any other MMO I've played, Lord of the Rings Online seems to draw out player events like crazy. Maybe it's the setting, Tolkien's world-building, the renaissance fair outfits, or the disproportionately large RP crowd, but LotRO seems to be graced with far more of these kinds of player-driven initiatives than elsewhere.

As such, today I wanted to scout around the forums and official calendar to highlight a few of the many, many events that festoon this great game of ours. These are great to check out, particularly when you're a little bored with the same-old, same-old of questing, raiding, skirmishing, or PvMPing. The ingenuity and spirit of these events is often quite infectious, and I never regret going to one once I make the effort.

So check out seven great player events in LotRO, coming to a server near you!

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: Seven player events you must attend

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: Seven player events you must attend originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 05 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ales-and-talesf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroopinionplayer-driven-eventplayer-eventplayer-musicroad-to-mordorroleplayroleplayingrpthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentweatherstockweatherstock-2012weatherstock-ivSat, 05 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks appreciates the military with a World of Thanks]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/world-of-tanks-appreciates-the-military-with-a-world-of-thanks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

If you've actually been shot at in a tank, this game is probably a bit less fun.
When you log in and play World of Tanks, you're playing the entertaining part of war, the part with cool machines wreaking havoc. Real wars obviously aren't fought by logging in and choosing a tank; they're fought by brave men and women willing to lay down their lives for their country if necessary. Thus, in honor of National Military Appreciation Month, Wargaming.net is donating to several charities for American veterans with your purchases.

Four charities -- AMVETS, Homes for our Troops, the Military Families Fund, and Paralyzed Veterans of America -- will be receiving 10% of the proceeds from all American purchases of larger Gold packs and 75% of the proceeds for all American purchases of the T14 package. To help raise awareness of veteran concerns, the company will also be hosting several giveaways through the month. It's a nice nod toward the reality of armed conflicts, and it lets you play at a private little war while still donating to survivors of real battles.

MassivelyWorld of Tanks appreciates the military with a World of Thanks originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycharity-donationscharity-eventsf2pfree-to-playhistoricalin-game-eventsmilitarymilitary-appreciation-monthpvptanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tankswotThu, 03 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Massively: Moving shop edition]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/ask-massively-moving-shop-edition/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/ask-massively-moving-shop-edition/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/ask-massively-moving-shop-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

My new home is in a trackless expanse of desert with a stew pot.
As you read this, I'm making my final preparations to move from my home for the past three years into a new and much nicer home. Of course, this brings with it certain concerns. Will the utility companies reconnect everything correctly? Will the movers drop something I can't easily replace? Will I forget something in the old apartment and have to go back?

So, if my posts next week seem a bit off, assume that the move resulted in fiery death all around and I've been replaced by a crude AI pasted in Visual Basic.

This week's Ask Massively, sadly, does not include anything about AI or my new apartment. Instead, it's about player-run events and why we cover some of them but not all. If you've got a question you'd like to see answered in a future installment of the column, send it to ask@massively.com or leave it in the comments. Questions may be edited slightly for clarity and/or brevity.

Continue reading Ask Massively: Moving shop edition

MassivelyAsk Massively: Moving shop edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adviceadvice-columnask-massivelyeventsfeaturedhumorin-game-eventsmassively-metametaopinionplayer-eventsplayer-run-eventsThu, 03 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret War draws over 200,000 players to its Facebook battle]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/the-secret-war-draws-over-200-000-players-to-its-facebook-battle/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/the-secret-war-draws-over-200-000-players-to-its-facebook-battle/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/the-secret-war-draws-over-200-000-players-to-its-facebook-battle/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Secret World
Funcom's Facebook prologue to The Secret World is a sizable success, even if it had a rocky beginning. The studio reports that over 200,000 players have taken the side of one of the game's three factions and are supporting their side through this "unique browser-based social experience."

Over the course of two weeks, participants have unleashed 50 million agents as part of the event, visited the site 1,200,000 times, and spent an average of 20 minutes each visit participating in the game. Since launching The Secret War, Funcom's added goals for the factions to work toward each week. The current prize is a Heart of Africa health talisman.

Two-hundred thousand participants is a solid win for Senior Vice President Morten Larssen, who sees this as an excellent way to prepare players for the factional struggle of the MMO: "This conflict has always been a key driver for activity in our own community, and we are excited to see that more and more people are coming in to join the conflict from outside the community as well."

[Source: Funcom press release]

MassivelyThe Secret War draws over 200,000 players to its Facebook battle originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agentsfacebookfactionfactionsfantasyfuncomheart-of-africahorrorMorten-Larssenmythologysci-fantasysecret-worldskill-basedthe-secret-warthe-secret-worldtswThu, 03 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion offers rewards in new Broken Alliance PvP event]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/aion-offers-rewards-in-new-broken-alliance-pvp-event/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/aion-offers-rewards-in-new-broken-alliance-pvp-event/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/aion-offers-rewards-in-new-broken-alliance-pvp-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Aion - Rifting extravaganza banner
Aion is incentivizing PvP in a big way this month thanks to a new promotion called A Broken Alliance. The bloodshed runs through May 16th as NCsoft is opening rifting portals and removing faction protection buffs from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. EDT each day.

Players who rift into enemy territory will receive reward items, as will those who log at least one PvP kill. Three players per faction will be selected to receive a special Cirruspeed mount prize (though it's worth noting that said mount expires after 30 days).

Finally, the devs will be spawning legendary raid monsters on Sundays. Full details on the promo events are on the Aion website.

MassivelyAion offers rewards in new Broken Alliance PvP event originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-broken-allianceaionaion-pvpaion-riftingascensionbroken-alliancef2pfantasyfree-to-playncsoftpvpriftingtruly-freeThu, 03 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Trek Online puts its featured episodes into reruns]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/star-trek-online-puts-its-featured-episodes-into-reruns/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/star-trek-online-puts-its-featured-episodes-into-reruns/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/star-trek-online-puts-its-featured-episodes-into-reruns/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

But where's the holodeck arc? It's not really Star Trek until there's a holodeck arc.
Reruns are a staple of the Star Trek series, especially as it's been several years since the last television series ended. But reruns are a bit more exciting in Star Trek Online because they mean players have a chance to get the special rewards from featured episodes all over again. For the month of May, the game is putting all of its previous episodes into a rerun rotation, giving everyone who missed them the first time a chance to get the special bonuses.

May 3rd through the 9th will feature the Spectres series, followed by Cloaked Intentions from May 10th through the 16th, The 2800 from the 17th to the 23rd, and Cold War from the 24th until May 30th. All of the special rewards are still unique, so if you already have one, you can't get it again. But if you weren't playing the game at the time or just missed the chance, this month offers a chance to go back and catch up.

[Thanks to The_Grand_Nagus for the tip!]

MassivelyStar Trek Online puts its featured episodes into reruns originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentcrypticcryptic-studiosf2pfeatured-episodesfree-to-playin-game-eventsperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwesci-fispecial-contentstar-trekstar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestoWed, 02 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[CCP analyzes EVE's Jita player event]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/ccp-analyzes-eves-jita-player-event/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/ccp-analyzes-eves-jita-player-event/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/ccp-analyzes-eves-jita-player-event/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EVE Online - Jita heatmap
If you warped into EVE Online's Jita merchant hub last week, chances are you didn't make it out alive. If you were plying your trade elsewhere in New Eden, the much-hyped "Burn Jita" campaign likely didn't even register on your radar.

It registered on CCP's, though, as shown by the company's latest EVE-focused dev blog. As per usual, there are a bunch of pretty graphs and plenty of tech-speak. There's also some verbiage related to TiDi (time dilation), which is CCP's way of dealing with massive concentrations of players in its single-shard universe. It's worth noting that since the devs had advance warning of this particular player-run event, they were able to beef up EVE's server infrastructure to handle the increased load. You can read all the technical details on the game's official website.

MassivelyCCP analyzes EVE's Jita player event originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burn-jitaccpccp-gameseveeve-onlinegriefinginternet-spaceshipsplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsandboxsci-fiuser-generated-contentWed, 02 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR on the rise and planning more PvP, endgame content]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/swtor-on-the-rise-and-planning-more-pvp-endgame-content/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/swtor-on-the-rise-and-planning-more-pvp-endgame-content/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/swtor-on-the-rise-and-planning-more-pvp-endgame-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

SWTOR
Star Wars: The Old Republic's moon (that's no moon...) is waxing, not waning, says Daniel Erickson. BioWare's lead designer on the project said that rumors of the game's demise are incredibly premature -- and outright wrong.

Following Update 1.2 and the Rakghoul Outbreak live event, Erickson reports that player activity in the game is increasing. He said that the studio is working hard to keep its customers happy: "The community has generally been excited about the direction the game is going as we finish up our last must-have quality of life features (group finder, etc) and can start concentrating full-time on creative things like the world events."

Erickson said that the live event was kept a surprise to make it "feel organic" and not spoil everything in this age of instant internet sharing. He said that the team took a cue from World of Warcraft's Corrupted Blood plague that swept through the game in 2005; the devs tried to channel players' actions to fun rather than griefing.

He says that the team discovered that SWTOR had a huge PvP community and has since "turned a huge amount of resources" to developing more content for that side of the game. BioWare's also shifted several team members over to creating more endgame content as the players chew through the stories at an increasing rate.

MassivelySWTOR on the rise and planning more PvP, endgame content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionbiowareblizzardblizzard-entertainmentcorrupted-bloodcorrupted-blood-incidentcorrupted-blood-plaguedaniel-ericksoneaelectronic-artsendgamefantasygroup-finderinterviewlive-eventlucasartsoutbreakpvprakghoul-outbreakrakghoul-plaguesci-fistar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorupdate-1.2warcraftworld-of-warcraftwowWed, 02 May 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elsword celebrates first anniversary with cake]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/01/elsword-celebrates-first-anniversary-with-cake/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/01/elsword-celebrates-first-anniversary-with-cake/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/01/elsword-celebrates-first-anniversary-with-cake/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Elsword Online - gameplay screenshot
It seems like every other day is an MMO anniversary around these parts. Next on the list is Elsword Online, the free-to-play side-scrolling manga actioner from Kill3rCombo.

"As with any new business venture in North America, we were both apprehensive and hopeful that online gamers would receive Elsword as well as audiences overseas have," says Kill3rCombo CEO Ben Colayco. "Now, as we celebrate Elsword's first anniversary, we are proud that the game continues to grow and has found its niche within the gaming community."

The firm is not only proud but in a giving mood if the in-game anniversary festivities are any indication. Players can enjoy reward-filled anniversary cubes, hit point recovery cake, limited edition coins, play-time bonuses, and increased drop rates. All of this is ongoing through May 8th, so log in now to join the celebration.

[Source: Kill3rCombo press release]

MassivelyElsword celebrates first anniversary with cake originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animeelswordelsword-anniversaryelsword-onlinef2pfantasyfree-to-playkill3r-combokill3rcombomangaside-scrollerTue, 01 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Online celebrates nine years of internet spaceships]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/30/eve-online-celebrates-nine-years-of-internet-spaceships/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/30/eve-online-celebrates-nine-years-of-internet-spaceships/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/30/eve-online-celebrates-nine-years-of-internet-spaceships/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- EVE Online
Break out the cake and presents because EVE Online is turning nine years old on May 6th! That's right, the internet's premier spaceship/spreadsheet simulator is almost a decade old, and CCP Games is doing it up big-time with this year's anniversary gift packages.

Beginning on May 4th, players will have the opportunity to choose one of eight fabulous prize packages that include goodies such as ships, skill books, implants, mining crystals, and more. To take a look at all of the wonderful goodie bags that CCP has prepared for you, just head on over to the EVE Online official dev blog and check out the full announcement.

MassivelyEVE Online celebrates nine years of internet spaceships originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9th-anniversaryanniversaryccpccp-gameseveeve-onlineeventeventsgiftgift-packgift-packagegift-packagesgift-packsgiftsinternet-spaceshipsninth-anniversarysandboxsci-fispreadsheets-onlineMon, 30 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST