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[The Game Archaeologist: Bio break!]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/03/the-game-archaeologist-bio-break/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/03/the-game-archaeologist-bio-break/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/03/the-game-archaeologist-bio-break/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Anarchy Online
Man oh man, why couldn't I just take a month or so off of this column without getting sucked back into it? Why must classic MMOs be so compelling and newsworthy these days?

I planned to take some time off of TGA while I went through Dark Age of Camelot in Choose My Adventure (which you're all reading, yes?), but there was so much to talk about regarding older MMOs that I couldn't sit back and stay mum. Ergo, I've dashed off this special "break" column devoted to commenting on recent news about classic games. Hopefully this will help tide you over until I get back into the full swing of things in April.

On the docket for today's discussion is Vanguard's forthcoming F2P change, EverQuest's recent conversion, Anarchy Online's stunning graphic engine video, and more!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist: Bio break!

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist: Bio break! originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineaoclassicclassic-mmoclassic-mmosclassicseqeq-nexteq1eqoaeverquesteverquest-nexteverquest-online-adventuresf2pfantasyfeaturedfpsfree-to-playfuncomgame-archaelogistmmofpsnostalgiaopinionplanetsideplanetside-2playstation-2playstation-3psps1sandboxsci-fisoesonysony-online-entertainmentstationstation-accesstelonthe-game-archaeologistvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgTue, 03 Apr 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively Speaking Episode 195: Jokeception]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/03/massively-speaking-195-jokeception/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/03/massively-speaking-195-jokeception/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/03/massively-speaking-195-jokeception/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

SWTOR
Massively Speaking Episode 195 wonders if you were actually fooled by any of the pranks that MMO studios put out there, or barring that, if some of the pranks sounded so cool that you wish they were real. For Massively's part, we brought back One Shots as a joke, and then we brought it back for real just because that was the best laugh of them all.

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:
[iTunes] Subscribe to Massively Speaking directly in iTunes.
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Listen here on the page:



Read below the cut for the full show notes.

Continue reading Massively Speaking Episode 195: Jokeception

MassivelyMassively Speaking Episode 195: Jokeception originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-onlineanetaoapril-foolsapril-fools-2012april-fools-dayarenanetbrantbrianna-royceclassic-mmodark-millenniumdark-millennium-onlinedmoeqoaeverquest-online-adventuresf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playfuncomgods-and-heroesguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw2heatwaveheatwave-interactivehumorjustin-olivettimassively-speakingmythologyncsoftopinionpodcastpodcastingpodcastssci-fantasysci-fisoeSony-Online-Entertainmentvigilvigil-gameswar40kwar40k-dmowarhammerwarhammer-40000-dark-millennium-onlinewarhammer-40kwarhammer-40k-dark-millennium-onlineTue, 03 Apr 2012 10:00:00 ESTMassively Speaking Episode 195Massively.com Staff55:56podcasts'; 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[EverQuest Online Adventures slays its final dragon]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/29/everquest-online-adventures-slays-its-final-dragon/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/29/everquest-online-adventures-slays-its-final-dragon/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/29/everquest-online-adventures-slays-its-final-dragon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

EQOA
EverQuest Online Adventures, the console spinoff of SOE's EverQuest franchise, is counting down the hours until the server is switched off at midnight tonight. In addition to EQOA, SOE is shuttering three other underperforming titles today: Cosmic Rift, Infantry, and Star Chamber: The Harbinger Saga.

Instead of spending its final days in sorrow, the EQOA community joined the dev team for a series of epic battles against marauding dragons this past week. Players have filled the forums with posts about their favorite in-game memories over the past nine years of gameplay. To compensate players for the loss of their game world, SOE gave EQOA subscribers three months of gold-level status in EverQuest and EverQuest II.

EQOA came out in 2003 on the PlayStation 2 and was one of the first generation of console MMOs. For those Massively readers feeling nostalgic or curious about it, definitely check out our series on the game: part 1, part 2, and part 3.

MassivelyEverQuest Online Adventures slays its final dragon originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cancelclosureconsoleconsole-mmoCosmic-Rifteqeq-iieqoaeverquesteverquest-iieverquest-onlineeverquest-online-adventuresInfantryplaystation-2ps2soesony-online-entertainmentStar-Chamber-The-Harbinger-SagasunsetsunsettingThu, 29 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest Online Adventures sunsetting March 29th]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/02/29/everquest-online-adventures-sunsetting-march-29th/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/29/everquest-online-adventures-sunsetting-march-29th/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/29/everquest-online-adventures-sunsetting-march-29th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EQOA
It appears that Leap Day 2012 is not destined to be kind to the MMO industry. On top of layoffs and struggling studios, we've received word that Sony Online Entertainment has delivered a pink slip to EverQuest Online Adventures. According to the company, EQOA will be sunsetted on March 29th.

No specific reason was given for the move, but a farewell letter posted on the site attempts to soften the blow: "This is not an easy decision, but there comes a time when it's best for our developers to move on to the next adventure, and that day has come." In the closure FAQ, SOE also promises a celebration at the end of the game's run.

To appease its remaining EQOA customers, SOE is offering three months of gold membership in both EverQuest and EverQuest II for current subscribers. This consolation prize will become effective on March 16th. SOE will also not be charging current players during March.

EQOA has always been the smallest member of the EverQuest franchise since its release in 2003 on the PlayStation 2. We covered it in our Game Archaeologist column late last year and were impressed by the passion and memories that the game's fans shared.

[Thanks to Omali for the tip!]

MassivelyEverQuest Online Adventures sunsetting March 29th originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqoaeverquesteverquest-iieverquest-online-adventuresgold-membershipleap-dayleap-day-2012playstation-2soeSony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 29 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist seals up 2011]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/03/the-game-archaeologist-seals-up-2011/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/03/the-game-archaeologist-seals-up-2011/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/03/the-game-archaeologist-seals-up-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
You know what I love about the end of each year? The lists. Man, but I'm a sucker for lists, especially when they come in "best of" varieties. In the lull between Christmas and New Year's, there typically isn't a lot happening in the world of entertainment, so it's a good time to look back before we head forward.

And so it is for The Game Archaeologist. 2011 marks the second year I've been doing this column, and it's been one of my personal favorite series to write. Every week I'm learning more and more about the history of the MMO genre, and I'm encouraged to see just how much passion and interest there are for the titles that started it all and got us to where we are today.

So before we head into 2012, let's take one last glimpse back at the road we've traveled. If you've missed out on any of these columns or want to revisit your favorite classic MMO, I've compiled a huge list of everything I talked about this year, from histories to interviews to player stories. There's also a special request for you (yes, you) at the end of this column, so do me a favor and hit that jump!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist seals up 2011

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist seals up 2011 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011a-tale-in-the-desertac2Andrew-Tepperasherons-callasherons-call-2Ben-Chamberlainbrian-greenclimaxdark-age-of-cameloteaearth-and-beyondeqEric-Heimburgeverquestfeaturedimperator-onlineJosef-HalllineagelistlistsMeridian-59Middle-earth-Onlinemudmulti-user-dungeonmxomythicaplanetsidepsychochildRade-StojsavljevicrarebitRichard-Bartleround-uproundupshadow-of-yserbiusshadowbaneStuart-Zissuteppytgathe-game-archaeologistthe-matrix-onlinethe-shadow-of-yserbiusThom-TerrazasTodd-ColemanTrue-Fantasy-Live-OnlineUltima-Worlds-Online-OriginUltima-X-OdysseyWarhammer-Onlineworld-of-warcraftyear-in-reviewTue, 03 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The memories]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/22/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/22/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/22/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EQOA
It's been a good month looking back at EverQuest Online Adventures, wouldn't you agree? Educational, almost. While this title is just about as far from the mainstream MMO eye as can be these days, it's heartening to know it's still out there, still running, and still capable of evoking fond memories from current and former players.

While we did attempt to contact SOE for an interview to see if we could find out anything new -- or even old -- about EQOA, it failed to materialize. As a wonderful consolation prize, however, this week we'll hear from three players who have extensive experience in the game. So let's hit this column running and equip our +2 Ears of Paying Attention!

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The memories

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The memories originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleconsole-mmoeqoaeverquest-online-adventuresfeaturedfrontiersgriefermoomudmudsmushnorwaypalplaystationplaystation-2ps2soeSony-Online-Entertainmenttraintrain-to-zoneTue, 22 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The blogger]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/15/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/15/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/15/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EQOA
To tell you all the truth, the comments from last week's initial foray into EverQuest Online Adventures bowled me over -- I truly was not expecting so many players to be so passionate about the game! How cool is that? I hope that some of you send me in your EQOA stories to justin@massively.com so we can include them in next week's column.

Today I want to welcome Rick "Stoney" Stonebrook to our neck of the Massively woods. I remember finding Stoney's EQOA blog over a year ago and being so impressed that there was someone out there regularly updating a blog about this low-profile MMO. Stoney agreed to an interview about the game from a player's and blogger's perspective, so here goes!

The Game Archaeologist: Please introduce yourself and your blog! Why did you start blogging about EQOA?

Stoney: Well, I'm 24 and have lived in a lot of places in the past few years. I adopted the name Stoney when I started the blog, eqoa.wordpress.com, in October 2010. The purpose for the blog was simple: compile as much information about the game as I could find using various search engines such as Google, Yahoo, and YouTube. I hadn't played since 2005 and wasn't familiar with any new content. I had always wanted to return to the game. Thus the blog's goal evolved from a collection of memories to an effort to get people to return.

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The blogger

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The blogger originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alchemistbetamaxblogbloggerconsoleconsole-mmoeqoaeverquesteverquest-online-adventuresexpansionf2pfeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xifree-to-playfrontierfrontiersinterviewminidiscsplaystation-2playstation-3ps2ps3rick-stonebrooksocom-navy-sealssoesonysony-online-entertainmentstoneytgathe-game-archaeologistunderfootworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 15 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The highlights]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/08/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/08/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/08/the-game-archaeologists-excellent-everquest-online-adventures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

EQOA
In the pantheon of Sony Online Entertainment's flagship EverQuest franchise, there is a whole family of MMOs gathered around the table every evening. There's Papa EverQuest, looking a little wrinkled and worn but also radiating fame and authority. Next to him is Mama EverQuest II, a powerful matron of entertainment if there ever was one. They look proudly down the table at a bassinet where Baby EverQuest Next lies, cooing as it grows into the future generation of this family.

Then, in the next room over is a cabinet. The cabinet is locked. Inside that cabinet is a weird abnormality that certainly looks like a member of the family, but he hasn't seen the light of day in quite some time. He subsists on the scraps of an aging console and the fading loyalty of fans, hoping against odds that one day he'll be allowed out for a stroll or something. His name is Cousin EverQuest Online Adventures, the EQ MMO nobody mentions.

EQOA is a strange abnormality in SOE's lineup. While it was one of the very first console MMOs and heir to the EverQuest name, it was quickly eclipsed in both areas by other games and left alone. Yet, against all odds, it continues to operate on the PlayStation 2, eight years and counting since its debut.

This month the Game Archaeologist will crack open that cabinet and give this interesting MMO a few weeks of attention and care. I think it's about time, don't you?

Continue reading The Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The highlights

MassivelyThe Game Archaeologist's excellent EverQuest Online Adventures: The highlights originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-adventureben-bellchurnclint-worleyconsole-mmodreamcasteqeqiieqoaeverquesteverquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-online-adventureseverquest-online-adventures-frontiersexpansionfeaturedfinal-fantasy-xifrontiersnorrathphantasy-star-onlineplanetside-2playstation-2playstation-3ps2ps3psorod-humblesoesony-online-entertainmentthe-game-archaeologistvideoTue, 08 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Sequelitis]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/05/19/the-perfect-ten-sequelitis/http://www.massively.com/2011/05/19/the-perfect-ten-sequelitis/http://www.massively.com/2011/05/19/the-perfect-ten-sequelitis/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

As a long-time movie buff, I've always been fascinated by sequels. I know, they have a terrible reputation and everyone gets this face like he's digesting a porcupine when discussing them, but there's something fun about them as well. I think we always want a good story to continue, to see what happens next, and to answer the question, "What would the first film be like if it were put in the hands of a complete boob?" It would be an entertaining trainwreck, that's what.

Even though the MMORPG genre is in its toddler stage, it's seen a number of sequels, prequels and spin-offs, just the same as other types of entertainment. Video game sequels for hit titles are safer financial investments than striking out into new territory, so it makes sense that MMO studios would follow this pattern as well.

Right now there are loads of MMO sequels and spin-offs in the works -- including EverQuest Next, PlanetSide Next, Guild Wars 2, Mabinogi 2, MapleStory 2, Phantasy Star Online 2, Dust 514, and even a possible Ultima Online sequel -- so it's safe to say that the trend won't be dying down anytime soon. However, today I want to look at 10 sequels that already made it to release and briefly examine how they stacked up to their predecessors. Oh yes, there will be blood after the jump -- and I will drink your milkshake!

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Sequelitis

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Sequelitis originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 19 May 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>16-bit8-bitadultadult-mmoadult-orientedallods-onlinebigfootblack-prophecyCity-of-Villainsdust-514eqeq2eqiieqoaeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-nexteverquest-online-adventuresf2pfactionsfeaturedff14final-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivfree-to-playguild-wars-2guild-wars-factionsguild-wars-nightfalllegend-of-mirlegend-of-mir-2legend-of-mir-3lineagelineage-2lineage-3lineage-iimabinogi-2maginobimaginobi-heroesmaplestory-2ncsoftneocronneocron-2nexonnightfallperfect-10perfect-tenphantasy-star-online-2planetside-nextplaystation-2polybiusprequelsps2reakktorreakktor-mediasequelsequelsspin-offspin-offsspinoffspinoffssports-illustrated-swimsuit-issuesquaresquare-enixsword-2sword-of-the-new-worldthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenultima-onlinevindictuswemadewemade-entertainmentworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 19 May 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE announces dates for Fan Faire 2010]]>http://www.massively.com/2010/03/04/soe-announces-dates-for-fan-faire-2010/http://www.massively.com/2010/03/04/soe-announces-dates-for-fan-faire-2010/http://www.massively.com/2010/03/04/soe-announces-dates-for-fan-faire-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

For fans of Sony Online Entertainment's stable of MMO titles, the time has come once again to start making plans for Fan Faire. It looks like we'll all be heading back to Bally's Hotel in Las Vegas from August 5-8 for a weekend chock-full of all manner of crazy gaming fun with MMO friends.

This year, they're offering everything from day passes at $35 on up to a Platinum badge which -- for $135 -- will net you access to all events, plus an additional in-game item, a special swag bag boasting more than just regular Fan Faire goodies, access to a VIP lounge, and even private VIP events. Add to that the room discounts starting at $65 a night for a swanky hotel right on the main Vegas strip, and this could well be a great vacation that just happens to include the awesome fun of this year's SOE Fan Faire.

For now, there's no details on the schedule of events, but we wouldn't be surprised to see Alan "Brenlo" Crosby wedging people into t-shirts three sizes too small, as well as an appearance by of one of our favorite Dwarves. If previous years are any indication, this is a should-not-miss event for any serious SOE fan.

MassivelySOE announces dates for Fan Faire 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingdc-universe-onlinedcuoeqeq2eqiieqoaeverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-online-adventuresfan-fairefan-faire-2010las-vegaspssoesony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyvanguardvegasvgThu, 04 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Everquest accepting signups for expansion beta]]>http://www.massively.com/2009/10/07/everquest-accepting-signups-for-expansion-beta/http://www.massively.com/2009/10/07/everquest-accepting-signups-for-expansion-beta/http://www.massively.com/2009/10/07/everquest-accepting-signups-for-expansion-beta/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Sony Online Entertainment's long running MMO Everquest is preparing to launch its sixteenth expansion, Underfoot. Fans who have been looking forward to this expansion since its reveal at Fan Faire in June now have something more to look forward to. SOE announced today that they are accepting signups for the beta, which is expected to run from October 20th until December 1st.

SOE made an effort last year to streamline the signup process and make it easier on everyone involved, so you only need to sign up once. Your original signup will place you in the beta pool for every invite stage. The beta signup page will remain open until the end of beta testing as well, meaning you have plenty of time to join the beta pool.

2009 Fan Faire attendees still need to sign up, but will be included in the beta, as well as receiving a free copy of the expansion. 2009 Dragon*Con EQ Panel attendees who filled in the sign-up sheet will also be included in the early beta.

MassivelyEverquest accepting signups for expansion beta originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabeta-keyeqeverquestsoesony-online-entertainmentunderfootWed, 07 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE's 3rd annual Community Address to be broadcast live this Friday night]]>http://www.massively.com/2009/06/22/soes-3rd-annual-community-address-to-be-broadcast-live-this-fri/http://www.massively.com/2009/06/22/soes-3rd-annual-community-address-to-be-broadcast-live-this-fri/http://www.massively.com/2009/06/22/soes-3rd-annual-community-address-to-be-broadcast-live-this-fri/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,


Not being able to attend this year's SOE Fan Faire doesn't mean that you'll miss out entirely. Aside from the biggest news that we'll undoubtedly bring to your attention right here on Massively, you will actually be able to watch SOE CEO John Smedley's community address streaming live on Friday the 26th of June, at 7:00PM PDT. Although visiting the link for the event right now seems to prompt us to register, Amnerys' post on the EverQuest forums says that this isn't necessary: "You don't need to register or have a password! Just visit the page and view!"

This will be the third year of SOE's annual community addresses. To get an idea of what to expect this Friday, you can check out the presentation from Fan Faire 2007 on Youtube. The link to keep bookmarked for the live event is this one right here.

MassivelySOE's 3rd annual Community Address to be broadcast live this Friday night originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amneryscommunity-addressfan-faire-2009john-smedleylive-broadcastsoesoe-fan-fairesony-online-entertainmentstreamingMon, 22 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Do you think EverQuest 3 will be announced at E3?]]>http://www.massively.com/2009/06/01/the-daily-grind-do-you-think-everquest-3-will-be-announced-at-e/http://www.massively.com/2009/06/01/the-daily-grind-do-you-think-everquest-3-will-be-announced-at-e/http://www.massively.com/2009/06/01/the-daily-grind-do-you-think-everquest-3-will-be-announced-at-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


It's June once more and E3 is again upon us. Several members of the Massively team have jetted off to cover the event and there's bound to be some fantastic announcement and this also includes MMOs. For the last couple of weeks the interweb has been abuzz with speculation that SOE might actually get around to announcing EverQuest 3.

This is something we've talked about before and if you're going to announce any big new game, E3 is one of the biggest events to do it at. So, constant readers, what do you think? Is now the right time to expand Norrath? Do you think EQ3 will remain on PC or include other platforms like the PS3, a la Free Realms? Would you rather just stick with EQ2 for the time being or are you eager to see another incarnation of this classic franchise?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you think EverQuest 3 will be announced at E3? originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2009everquest-3everquest-iiisoesony-online-entertainmentthe-daily-grindMon, 01 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE launches 2009 Player of the Year contest]]>http://www.massively.com/2009/04/22/soe-launches-2009-player-of-the-year-contest/http://www.massively.com/2009/04/22/soe-launches-2009-player-of-the-year-contest/http://www.massively.com/2009/04/22/soe-launches-2009-player-of-the-year-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


SOE is searching for their two biggest fans, and plans to reward their loyalty with a trip to the SOE Fan Faire in Las Vegas later this year. It would be pretty difficult to work out who the biggest fanboys or girls are without any input from the community, so it's up to the players to nominate suitable candidates -- and yes, you can nominate yourself. What qualities should you be looking for in potential Players of the Year? From SOE:

"Do you know someone who is the poster child for your favorite SOE title? So dedicated to the game, he or she walks around with bloodshot eyes, sleep deprived, wearing his or her favorite wrinkled SOE T-shirt? Does this player stand out as the first person to go beyond the call of duty to help fellow community gamers in and out of the game? If so, you may have the perfect candidate, and we want to know more!"

To submit a nomination, send an email to SOEContests AT soe.sony.com with a 300 word letter or role-playing story explaining the worthiness of the player in question; a link to a screenshot, video or artwork can be included. The contest is already underway and closes at midnight PST on the 10th of May, and the nominee must be a US resident and 21 years of age or older. Full competition details can be found here.

MassivelySOE launches 2009 Player of the Year contest originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fan-fairelas-vegasplayer-of-the-yearsoesoe-fan-fairesoe-fan-faire-2009soe-player-of-the-yearsony-online-entertainmentWed, 22 Apr 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE wants to know what you want at Fan Faire]]>http://www.massively.com/2009/04/07/soe-wants-to-know-what-you-want-at-fan-faire/http://www.massively.com/2009/04/07/soe-wants-to-know-what-you-want-at-fan-faire/http://www.massively.com/2009/04/07/soe-wants-to-know-what-you-want-at-fan-faire/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


Looks like things over at Sony Online Entertainment are really gearing up for this year's Fan Faire in Las Vegas. Sure, you know something big has to be coming because it's the 10th anniversary of EverQuest this year, but to sweeten the deal SOE is looking for player input. Did you hate that you didn't have enough time for Q&A on your favorite SOE title last year? Would you have preferred to hear John Smedley sing something other than Guns & Roses at karaoke? Did you really enjoy the silly competitions that Brenlo held during dinner? Perhaps you'd like to suggest a whole new panel that they haven't considered doing yet? Whatever your reasons, be sure to pop by the Fan Faire forums and let them know!

MassivelySOE wants to know what you want at Fan Faire originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eventfan-faire-2009feedbackideasoesony-online-entertainmentTue, 07 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What happens at Fan Faire, stays at Fan Faire]]>http://www.massively.com/2009/03/18/what-happens-at-fan-faire-stays-at-fan-faire/http://www.massively.com/2009/03/18/what-happens-at-fan-faire-stays-at-fan-faire/http://www.massively.com/2009/03/18/what-happens-at-fan-faire-stays-at-fan-faire/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Vegas, city of lights, nightlife, and SOE's Fan Faire! Sony has announced that they will once again be heading for Vegas to party down in high-rolling style. This year they'll be holding the event from June 25th to 28th at Bally's Hotel. The location they've picked is right in the middle of various Vegas attractions - although we're sure if you're there for the SOE party, you won't need to worry about that too much.

Having attended last year's Fan Faire, we can definitely say that it's a great weekend of fun and interesting panels, nice people - and this year's lineup appears to be just as interesting. So far the scheduled events include:

  • Special announcements and sneak peeks of upcoming SOE titles at the Third Annual Community Address from SOE President John Smedley
  • Autograph signings with members of the original EQ development team and other key contributors
  • Lots of in-game tournaments; and live, game-themed competitions and quests
  • Developer forums and roundtables
  • Cool giveaways and other fun items!
  • Player of the Year
To top it all off, prices for Vegas vacations are quite good, currently. So if you've been thinking about getting away, really dig SOE's games - or upcoming titles, and enjoy partying down with a great bunch of friendly, welcoming people, then definitely make some plans to attend this year's Fan Faire.

MassivelyWhat happens at Fan Faire, stays at Fan Faire originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ballys-hoteldcuoeqeq-2eq-iieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iieverquest-online-adventuresfan-fairefan-faire-2009free-realmslas-vegaslegends-of-norrathmxopirates-of-the-burning-seapotbsstar-wars-galaxiesswgthe-agencythe-matrix-onlineWed, 18 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan Faire 08: Liveblogging John Smedley's keynote]]>http://www.massively.com/2008/08/15/fan-faire-08-liveblogging-john-smedleys-keynote/http://www.massively.com/2008/08/15/fan-faire-08-liveblogging-john-smedleys-keynote/http://www.massively.com/2008/08/15/fan-faire-08-liveblogging-john-smedleys-keynote/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


The buzz coming into this evening's Fan Faire keynote is palpable. All the players know something is going on, but nobody is quite sure what's in store for this evening's festivities. As a service to our devoted readers, both old and new, Massively is on-scene and we'll be liveblogging John Smedley's keynote this evening.

Curious about what SOE has in store for the future of their various MMOGs? Join us behind the break for the up-to-the-minute news from the front lines!

Continue reading Fan Faire 08: Liveblogging John Smedley's keynote

MassivelyFan Faire 08: Liveblogging John Smedley's keynote originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifan-faire-2008featuredjohn-smedleyjoystiqfeatureskeynotelivebloglivebloggingsoesony-online-entertainmentFri, 15 Aug 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The SOE Fan Faire bag o' schwag]]>http://www.massively.com/2008/08/14/the-soe-fan-faire-bag-o-schwag/http://www.massively.com/2008/08/14/the-soe-fan-faire-bag-o-schwag/http://www.massively.com/2008/08/14/the-soe-fan-faire-bag-o-schwag/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


What goes on in Vegas, stays in Vegas -- unless of course you happen to be at Sony Online Entertainment's 2008 Fan Faire! We here at Massively are party-crashing this fun event bringing all the dark, dirty details to you straight from the heart of casino central!

For those who are unable to make it to this year's event (and those of you who are just curious about this kind of thing) we're bringing you the contents of the official SOE schwag bag for this year. So gather your courage, and dip in to the gallery for a first look at all the wonders contained in the 2008 Bag o' Schwag.

Gallery: SOE Fan Faire Schwag Bag

The Bag o' SchwagSOE Fan FaireFree Realms slap braceletPromotional cardsTemporary tattoos

MassivelyThe SOE Fan Faire bag o' schwag originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2eqiieverquesteverquest-2everquest-iifeaturedlegends-of-norrathlonschwagschwag-bagsoesoe-fan-faire-2008sony-online-entertainmentthe-agencyThu, 14 Aug 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How would you design EverQuest 3?]]>http://www.massively.com/2008/05/15/how-would-you-design-everquest-3/http://www.massively.com/2008/05/15/how-would-you-design-everquest-3/http://www.massively.com/2008/05/15/how-would-you-design-everquest-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


At the ION '08 conference keynote, John Smedley hinted at another entry in SOE's long-running EverQuest franchise. Since EverQuest's 1999 release, the venerable fantasy game has been seen in such places as game consoles (EQ Online Adventures for the PS2), PDAs (The Pocket EverQuest trilogy for the Pocket PC), Real Time Strategy (Lords of EverQuest for the PC), online collectible card games (Legends of Norrath) and even versions for cell phones (EverQuest: Hero's Call). What could possibly be next for EverQuest?

EverQuest on the PC has already split itself between the original game and its sequel, EverQuest II. Releasing a sequel to a still-viable game was a gutsy move, but it fragmented the player base substantially, to the point where neither game, by itself, can challenge newer games such as Lord of the Rings Online. It's this blogger's opinion that SOE won't make that mistake again -- any EverQuest 3 would not be for the PC. It's not a huge leap of faith to assume that the next version of EQ would run on the PlayStation 3. SOE recently shifted from Sony Pictures to Sony Computer Entertainment America, makers of the PS3 and publishers of its first-party software. Beyond that, when Smedley mentioned to the Seattle Times that the PS3 would be a strong platform for MMOs, he certainly very likely had this game (and others we don't know about) in mind.

SOE has made some mistakes with EverQuest through the years, but has also had some huge successes and innovations. If you were an EQ3 designer, and all you had in front of you was a PS3 and a blank whiteboard, what features would you include to knock the socks off the players? Customizable quests and raids? A Steampunk theme? Faster, twitch-based gameplay? The ability to make your own cities? How would you make EQ a worthy competitor to today's great crop of MMOs?

MassivelyHow would you design EverQuest 3? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eqeq2eq3eqiieqoaeverquesteverquest-2everquest-3everquest-iieverquest-iiieverquest-online-adventuresion08john-smedleylegends-of-norrathlonlord-of-the-rings-onlinelords-of-everquestlotropocket-everquestsoesteampunkThu, 15 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Daily Grind: Why aren't there more console MMOs?]]>http://www.massively.com/2008/04/19/the-daily-grind-why-arent-there-more-console-mmos/http://www.massively.com/2008/04/19/the-daily-grind-why-arent-there-more-console-mmos/http://www.massively.com/2008/04/19/the-daily-grind-why-arent-there-more-console-mmos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The list of them can be counted on the fingers of one hand: Phantasy Star Online, for the Dreamcast; Everquest Online Adventures and Final Fantasy XI for the Playstation 2; and Phantasy Star Universe for both the PS2 and the Xbox 360. And that's it. The only MMO currently thought to be planned for release on both PC and console (though not at launch) is Age of Conan for the 360. Why is there such a dearth of console MMOs?

Many will say that it's because MMOs are so complex and rich that they cannot be managed with a console controller, and that's partly true -- imagine playing World of Warcraft with a DualShock -- but that's more of a design issue. A game meant for consoles, rather than one ported over from the PC, should have such limitations in mind. There's also the closed environment of the console, which is harder to plan patches for, and the still-in-its-infancy online service for the three major brands. On the bright side, there would be no need to worry about system specs; every player would be getting the same experience. And there could be added value in game achievements, which is a system that doesn't currently exist for PC MMOs.

Are there more reasons against console MMOs than there are for them? Should developers bother with the consoles at all?

MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Why aren't there more console MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 19 Apr 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsage-of-conanconsolesdreamcastdualshockeverquest-online-adventuresfinal-fantasy-ximicrosoftnintendophantasy-star-onlinephantasy-star-universeplaystation-2sonyworld-of-warcraftSat, 19 Apr 2008 08:00:00 EST