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[Winner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/07/winner-of-mabinogis-merchant-of-venice-contest-highlighted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
If you are familiar with the Mabinogi-hosted contest from November called The Merchant of Venice, California, then you know that the popular free-to-play developer and publisher Nexon asked players to participate in order to win a free trip to the company's California studios to play, relax and discuss the new content. The event celebrated the release of the Merchant of Venice update. The addition gave players the ability to literally transport goods across the lands of Mabinogi. Players gain levels, earn in-game cash that can be used to buy special items and weapons, and gain access to better items to be traded. All expansions in the popular free-to-play title are free.

Sayre, a player from the Mari server, was invited to meet the developers, tour the office and even give some advice about how to make the game better. He received a free Alienware computer, 500 USD in cash and three nights in a hotel right on Venice Beach! In order to qualify for the contest drawing, players were required to have reached merchant level 9 in each of the game's towns.

Click past the cut to watch an exclusive preview of the tour!

Continue reading Winner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted

MassivelyWinner of Mabinogi's Merchant of Venice contest highlighted originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancontestexpansionf2pfree-to-playftpmabinogimerchant-of-venicenexonnexon-americavideoTue, 07 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one)]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Perfect Ten
As I've well established both here on Massively and elsewhere, I'm somewhat of a nut for video game music. Whereas others might collect vintage hair metal tracks or the latest Justin Bieber opus, I'm always digging through obscure (and not-so-obscure) official soundtracks to games like Wipeout and Kirby. Video game scores can be right up there with the best that the film industry puts out, and the fact that they tie into personal experiences that we've played through can lend them sentimental weight.

So for the next two Perfect Tens, I scoured all the MMO theme songs that I could get ahold of in an attempt to formulate a list of the very best. It was originally slated to be just one list, but after an hour or so of listening to tracks and having friends and fellow staffers weigh in on the subject, I knew it was impossible to keep it there.

Two important things to note for this list. First, I wanted to keep to just the title/login screen tracks so that I wouldn't be working on this for the next 2.5 years. Second, unlike most past Perfect Tens where there's no significance to the order of the list, in this case we're going to have a genuine countdown to the best MMO theme song of all time. And I expect to take no flak about it, do you hear me? Good. Let's begin.

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one)

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one) originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanbiowareblade-and-souldarkfalldarkfall-onlinefeaturedffxifinal-fantasy-xiharry-potterlistmabinogimusicNobuo-Uematsuperfect-10perfect-tenpiratespirates-of-the-burning-searunescapescorestar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-perfect-10the-perfect-tenthemetheme-musictitle-musictop-10top-20transformerstwilightwizard101wurm-onlineThu, 12 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/06/some-assembly-required-a-virtual-world-round-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Some Assembly Required header
If you are perusing this column, chances are you are a fan of virtual worlds and the sandbox genre. Join the club! (Dues will be due on the third Tuesday.) The aspect that compels many aficionados to delve into a game is the ability to make an impact on the world in some small respect instead of making them into Hive Member 1593072 running a static, predetermined gauntlet. How that impact is accomplished, however, varies; there are multiple features that can facilitate it, and which ones are considered most important depends on the player.

With the loss of one of the best sandbox games just last month, some players may be feeling a void. Others still are looking/hoping for the "ultimate" sandbox that contains nearly every virtual world feature. Certainly, there are some upcoming games that make some drool-worthy promises, but what about playing something now? There are actually games out on the market that have at least one aspect of the genre, if not more.

To start off the new year, Some Assembly Required looks at some of the top features of virtual worlds and lists games that incorporate these features. While this list isn't exhaustive (considering the sheer number of games when you include all of the smaller free-to-play titles, I'd run out of column space!), it is a comprehensive enough overview to point you toward some games worth playing that perhaps you hadn't considered before.

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup

MassivelySome Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaionaion-gameAnarchy-Onlineaocccpccp-eveccp-gameschampions-onlinecharacter-creationcharacter-customizationcity-of-heroescocohcraft-of-godscraft-of-the-godscraftingcrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalleden-eternaleq-1eq-2eq-ieq-iieveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineever-quest-1ever-quest-2ever-quest-iever-quest-iieverquest-1everquest-2everquest-ieverquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiflyffFuncomglitchguild-housinghousingking-of-kings-3liden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroluna-onlinemabinogimission-architectnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-cohparagon-studioesplanetsideplayer-generated-contentplayer-generated-missionsplayer-housingplayer-run-economyrunescapeRyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoe-eq-1soe-eq-2soe-eq-isoe-eq-iisome-assembly-requiredsony-eq-1sony-eq-2sony-eq-isony-eq-iisquare-enixst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineturbineTurbine-EntertainmentUltima-OnlineUOvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldwar-of-the-immortalswizard-101xbox-360XsyonFri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon bringing Mabinogi back online, compensating affected players]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/03/nexon-bringing-mabinogi-back-online-compensating-affected-playe/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/03/nexon-bringing-mabinogi-back-online-compensating-affected-playe/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/03/nexon-bringing-mabinogi-back-online-compensating-affected-playe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mabinogi - character selection screen
Nexon has brought Mabinogi back online, and the company tells Massively that "the issues that led us to temporarily disable service have been addressed."

The free-to-play sandbox was offline for nearly 40 hours last weekend, and Nexon will be compensating players with 5,000 NX (the company's cash shop currency), a two-day extension of VIP/Premium/Inventory Plus service, and a forthcoming double XP event. Nexon also tells us that players who were directly affected by the recent malicious activity will receive an additional 5,000 NX (10,000 total) and will have their lost items restored.

If you think you've been affected by the recent attacks, contact Nexon Support directly, and be sure to provide the following info when submitting your ticket:
  • account name
  • character name
  • character server
  • date of malicious activity
  • items missing/removed
  • name of malicious character (if available)
Finally, affected players should include the keyword MUGWORTS in their support ticket summary field to assist in filtering and processing.

[Source: Nexon press release]

MassivelyNexon bringing Mabinogi back online, compensating affected players originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>account-securityf2pfantasyfree-to-playmabinogimabinogi-hackingmabinogi-offlinemalicious-activitynexonnexon-hackingsandboxsecurityTue, 03 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon takes Mabinogi offline indefinitely due to 'malicious activity']]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/01/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-indefinitely-due-to-malicious-acti/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/01/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-indefinitely-due-to-malicious-acti/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/01/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-indefinitely-due-to-malicious-acti/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mabinogi - down for the count
If you were looking to play a little Mabinogi to kick off the new year, you might want to make alternate arrangements. Nexon has taken the free-to-play sandbox offline in order to deal with the recent spate of "malicious activity" going on in-game.

Mabinogi went dark yesterday, and Nexon says that it does "not have a specific time for the service to re-open." This is the second time in the past three months that Nexon has disabled the game, as the company dealt with a rash of unauthorized RMT issues and botting as recently as October of 2011. As per usual when MMO security issues crop up, the company has not released any details, saying only that "we feel that we have no choice but to take the game down in order to prevent any further malicious action."

[Thanks to David for the tip!]

MassivelyNexon takes Mabinogi offline indefinitely due to 'malicious activity' originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 01 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bottingf2pfantasyfree-to-playhackingmabinogimabinogi-malicious-activitymabinogi-offlinemalicious-activitynexonrmtsandboxsecuritySun, 01 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/04/rise-and-shiny-recap-revisiting-mabinogi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
If you've kept up with my columns for a while, it should be no secret that I think Mabinogi is still one of the best games out there. While it does have its issues, the game simply presents more sandboxy goodness to players (while keeping those systems coming) than almost any game I can think of. In fact, the game has added so much since I started this column that a returning player can get confused. A new player might even become lost.

I like to officially dip my toes into old, familiar games once in a while. Checking back on these games from my past is a great way for me to get my gamer's bearings and see how my opinions might have changed. Mabinogi has been calling to me for a while because I haven't really jumped into it for that long over the past few months. I figured now is the time.

Click past the cut!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi

MassivelyRise and Shiny recap: Revisiting Mabinogi originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmaneve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpLiveStreammabinogimin-kimNexonnexon-americarise-and-shinytwitch-tvvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-HeroesvindictusSun, 04 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mabinogi announces The Merchant of Venice, California contest]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/07/mabinogi-announces-the-merchant-of-venice-california-contest/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/07/mabinogi-announces-the-merchant-of-venice-california-contest/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/07/mabinogi-announces-the-merchant-of-venice-california-contest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Mabinogi
Mabinogi's latest content update followed the Shakespearean themes of the game's recent additions and added an in-game version of the Bard's famous play The Merchant of Venice. Now, Nexon is giving one lucky player the opportunity to become the merchant of Venice. Venice, California, that is. That's right, Nexon is giving away a trip for one player and a guest to sunny Venice, California, where they will receive 500 USD in spending money, three-night hotel accommodations, and a tour of the Nexon studios, complete with lunch with the Mabinogi team.

To qualify for the contest, players much reach Merchant level 9 in each of Mabinogi's towns. Completing this task by November 28th will enter them into the drawing for the grand prize. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and peddle your wares.

[Source: Nexon press release]

MassivelyMabinogi announces The Merchant of Venice, California contest originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestsf2pfree-to-playmabinoginexonthe-merchant-of-venicethe-merchant-of-venice-californiaMon, 07 Nov 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Ten terrific titles for this nifty new netbook]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/04/mmobility-ten-terrific-titles-for-this-nifty-new-netbook/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/04/mmobility-ten-terrific-titles-for-this-nifty-new-netbook/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/04/mmobility-ten-terrific-titles-for-this-nifty-new-netbook/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Inspiron Duo picture
I mentioned this new gaming toy of mine last week, and it finally arrived. I immediately loved how it felt and weighed. Sure, there are lighter netbooks, but many of them feel more fragile. This Inspiron Duo has a rubberized edging to it, and the flip-screen feels snappy but firm. I was happy right away. It's a higher-quality netbook with a decent-quality tablet included.

After I tweaked it and purged it of bloatware, I had to get some games going on it, and not just casual Facebook games but real MMOs. I spent a few days going through my list of titles to see which ones would work on the netbook and how many will work well with the touchscreen. I wanted games that would give a normal netbook fits but not lag excessively. Note that my netbook's screen is 1366x768, while the cheapest ones out there are normally 1024x600. Adjustments might need to be made there. I came up only with 10 games for now, but expect more in the future.

Click past the cut to see the list!

Continue reading MMObility: Ten terrific titles for this nifty new netbook

MassivelyMMObility: Ten terrific titles for this nifty new netbook originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpglitchgolden-agegunshineillyriadinspiron-duomabinoginadirimnetbooknetbook-gamesnetbook-mmosNexonnexon-americapuppet-guardianpuzzle-piratestechnologyUltima-Onlinewizard101Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mabinogi prepping Merchant of Venice, offers three new levels of premium service]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/10/21/mabinogi-prepping-merchant-of-venice-offers-three-new-levels-of/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/21/mabinogi-prepping-merchant-of-venice-offers-three-new-levels-of/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/21/mabinogi-prepping-merchant-of-venice-offers-three-new-levels-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mabinogi
It's a busy time for Mabinogi, which is still firmly in the grips of Shakespeare fever. The free-to-play title is preparing to launch its Merchant of Venice update on October 26th, and with it, a new commerce system.

Mabinogi's commerce system offers players a way to experience the highs and lows of trading with a little danger thrown in for good measure. Players will start out with a limited amount of new currency, ducats, which can be used to buy and sell from trading posts. Newly minted traders will then have to transport the currency personally while coming under fire by bandits. Pull off enough successful trade routes, and awesome new weapons will become available to you!

Nexon has also introduced a few new levels of premium service for players looking to enhance their Mabinogi experience. These optional services grant players additional inventory, free gifts, XP bonuses, and exclusive missions. As players wait for the launch of the update, Nexon is extending its free premium service for everyone to enjoy.

MassivelyMabinogi prepping Merchant of Venice, offers three new levels of premium service originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commerce-systemf2pfree-to-playmabinogimerchant-of-venicenexonpatchplayer-shopspremium-serviceshakespearetradertraderstradingupdateFri, 21 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon takes Mabinogi offline to combat RMT]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/10/10/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-to-combat-rmt/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/10/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-to-combat-rmt/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/10/nexon-takes-mabinogi-offline-to-combat-rmt/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mabinogi - some cute avatar with a samurai sword
Mabinogi fans aren't having the best of weeks, as their MMO of choice has been down for the count since October 4th. ThisIsGame.com reported that Nexon took the free-to-play fantasy title completely offline in order to deal with unauthorized real-money trading and implement new security measures.

Players were warned of the downtime approximately one hour before it occurred, and though there's no time table for a restart, Nexon has said that it will compensate customers accordingly.

"We have found lots of RMT [resulting] from workers and auto players during the last holiday. So we are working on [an] investigation [...] and proceeding [with] broadscale system maintenance to root it out," the company said.

MassivelyNexon takes Mabinogi offline to combat RMT originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgold-farmingmabinogimabinogi-offlinemmo-industrynexonreal-money-tradingrmtMon, 10 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: So what else can you get for 150 dollars?]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/07/27/free-for-all-so-what-else-can-you-get-for-150-dollars/http://www.massively.com/2011/07/27/free-for-all-so-what-else-can-you-get-for-150-dollars/http://www.massively.com/2011/07/27/free-for-all-so-what-else-can-you-get-for-150-dollars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Recently, fans of the upcoming MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic had the pleasure of plopping down 150 clams to pre-order a special collectors edition of their favorite game they have never played. I've seen this before, and have even pre-ordered a few in my day (I'm looking at you, giant Warhammer Online box.) Pre-orders are the oldest form of virtual goods...they were cash-shops before cash-shops appeared in every game. The funnest part is seeing hardcore cash-shop haters gladly paying huge sums of money for a robot pet or a cool looking cape. Somehow, they see it as a different thing altogether than buying a shiny mount or pink dress from in-game.

Still, I understand the impulse. I get it every time I am in the check-out lane and the new flavors of gum have been released. Even worse is when one of my favorite games releases new items in their cash shop. New mounts, housing goods, heck even new weapons or stat-increasing potions...they make me drool.

So, I decided to take a 150 dollar budget and see what I could get for it. Click past the cut and let's look at the list!

Continue reading Free for All: So what else can you get for 150 dollars?

MassivelyFree for All: So what else can you get for 150 dollars? originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galactica-onlinebeau-hindmanbsg-onlinecash-shopcylonEQ2EverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playftpillyriadkingsisle-entertainmentlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromabinogiNexonwizard-101wurm-onlineWed, 27 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Defy the stars: Mabinogi stages Romeo & Juliet]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/05/09/defy-the-stars-mabinogi-stages-romeo-and-juliet/http://www.massively.com/2011/05/09/defy-the-stars-mabinogi-stages-romeo-and-juliet/http://www.massively.com/2011/05/09/defy-the-stars-mabinogi-stages-romeo-and-juliet/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

What's in a name? That which we call a free update by any other name would smell as sweet! Or so a little birdie told us when we got word that Mabinogi is bringing another Shakespearean classic to Nexon's quirky title: Romeo and Juliet.

Mabinogi players now have a chance to engage with this romantic tragedy and its two star-crossed lovers. The action takes place at Rath Castle, where players will join the masquerade ball and witness the epic love story that bridged the chasm between two warring families. The addition of Romeo and Juliet to the game's landscape follows the Hamlet update earlier this year.

If you're not in the mood for love and fashionable costumes, Mabinogi's latest update invites you to grab a new weapon -- the lance -- and joust with your friends and enemies. You'll look even cooler doing this from a fire horse, a flaming steed that's been added to the game. Or if a life of peace is one you crave, then settle down in one of Mabinogi's Homesteads to grow crops, customize your ranch, and trade with others.

You can check out the screenies of the Romeo and Juliet update below, go read the full patch notes on the official site, and watch the trailer after the jump!

Gallery: Mabinogi

Continue reading Defy the stars: Mabinogi stages Romeo & Juliet

MassivelyDefy the stars: Mabinogi stages Romeo & Juliet originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 May 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfarmingfire-horsefree-to-playhamlethomesteadhomestead-systemjoustlancemabinogimasquerade-ballnexonranchrath-castleromeo-and-julietshakespearestar-crossed-loversMon, 09 May 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: A week of scheduled playtimes]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/04/13/free-for-all-a-week-of-scheduled-playtimes/http://www.massively.com/2011/04/13/free-for-all-a-week-of-scheduled-playtimes/http://www.massively.com/2011/04/13/free-for-all-a-week-of-scheduled-playtimes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

After a loose week of playing scheduled games, I can say that I have a lot of work to do to perfect my system. Once again, Tim and Jon from the Van Hemlock podcast are my inspiration. They are both dedicated to the art of playing games, to "finishing" games, almost to the point of obsession. It's certainly not for everyone, but they seem to maintain a real balance while skipping around. Perhaps the podcast they host helps them with this balance? I've hosted several podcasts over the years, so maybe putting my weekly gaming thoughts into audio form is necessary to keeping my sanity?

In reality, what I need to do is just stick it out and stay the course. I am not sure of many things in this world, but I am positive that repetition and scheduling are more powerful than almost any plan. Humans are habitual creatures, even with their gaming. Especially with their gaming. Over this last week, I started to settle into the role of a scheduled player and even looked forward to it each night.

Click past the cut and I'll let you know how it went.

Continue reading Free for All: A week of scheduled playtimes

MassivelyFree for All: A week of scheduled playtimes originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbeau-hindmaneq2eq2xeqiieverquest-2everquest-2-extendedf2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playftpmabinoginexonnexon-americaonetoofree-abonetwofree-abquest-onlineryzomsoeSony-Online-Entertainmentvan-hemlockwinch-gatewinch-gate-property-limitedwurm-onlineWed, 13 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon brings Shakespeare's Hamlet to Mabinogi]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/01/08/nexon-brings-shakespeares-hamlet-to-mabinogi/http://www.massively.com/2011/01/08/nexon-brings-shakespeares-hamlet-to-mabinogi/http://www.massively.com/2011/01/08/nexon-brings-shakespeares-hamlet-to-mabinogi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

To play Mabinogi or not to play Mabinogi, that is the question. Classic literature fans may have an easier time answering it after viewing two new trailers for Nexon's free-to-play fantasy MMORPG. The tortured Shakespearian prince will be making an appearance in Chapter 4 of the game's story campaign, and if you're scratching your head as to why, Nexon explains all on its official website.

"Both Mabinogi and Hamlet are rich stories filled with twists, intrigue, and memorable characters. These similarities, along with the legacy of being one of the most famous of Shakespeare's works, made the story of Hamlet a natural to fit within the world of Mabinogi," it reads.

The update will also be bringing new gameplay to Mabinogi in the form of theater missions and a new destiny system that allows for further skill specialization. Additionally, new character skills, shadow mission updates, and item upgrades are coming with the patch. Hit the jump to check out the two new videos and head to the official site for further details.

Continue reading Nexon brings Shakespeare's Hamlet to Mabinogi

MassivelyNexon brings Shakespeare's Hamlet to Mabinogi originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 08 Jan 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chapter-4destiny-systemf2pfree-to-playhamletitem-upgradesmabinogiNexonnexon-americapatchshadow-missionsshakespearestorystory-campaigntheater-missionsSat, 08 Jan 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010]]>http://www.massively.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/http://www.massively.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/http://www.massively.com/2010/12/30/the-perfect-ten-the-movers-and-shakers-of-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Even though MMOs are the products of great teams of talented workers -- from sound artists to writers -- it's inevitable that a few of the people behind the curtain step out into the limelight. It's a smart move, really; it provides a personal face for people to associate with the game, it keeps messages consistent, and it draws any potential hate onto one person instead of the team at large.

It stands to reason that these public figures end up being some of the major movers and shakers in the industry because of their high-profile positions. From CEOs to community managers, these are the people with power to make decisions, the voice to change opinions, and the personalities to inspire millions.

Oh, that last sentence is pure poetry. Let's re-read it again, shall we?

So in our last Perfect Ten of the year, I've asked the Massively team to compile a list of the 10 biggest MMO movers and shakers of this year. All of these people now owe us cupcakes of gratitude. (Legal Disclaimer: This does not signify a binding cupcake-blogger contract.)

Continue reading The Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010

MassivelyThe Perfect Ten: The movers and shakers of 2010 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 30 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30-studiosage-of-conanaocarenanetask-crypticbiowarebioware-mythicbree-profred-this-tgachampionschampions-onlinechris-caocoocraig-morrisoncraig-zinkievichcrypticcryptic-studioscupcakecupcake-contractcurt-schillingdan-ericksondan-stahldaniel-ericksondaniel-stahldark-side-of-the-forcedc-universe-onlinedcuoddodungeon-fighter-onlinedungeons-and-dragons-onlineea-biowareend-of-the-yearend-of-the-year-2010engineering-reportseq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfourth-pillarfree-to-playfuncomguild-warsguild-wars-2jack-emmertkate-paizlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromabinogimaplestorymike-obrienmin-kimneverwinternexonnexon-nanexon-north-americapaizperfect-10perfect-tenrhode-islandriftrift-planes-of-telarascott-hartsmanstar-trek-onlinestar-wars-the-old-republicstoswtorthe-old-republicthe-perfect-tentortriontrion-worldsturbinevindictusworld-of-warcraftThu, 30 Dec 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mabinogi to host in-game fundraiser for Starlight Foundation]]>http://www.massively.com/2010/11/19/mabinogi-to-host-in-game-fundraiser-for-starlight-foundation/http://www.massively.com/2010/11/19/mabinogi-to-host-in-game-fundraiser-for-starlight-foundation/http://www.massively.com/2010/11/19/mabinogi-to-host-in-game-fundraiser-for-starlight-foundation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Nexon America's Mabinogi is known for its bright clothing and extreme customization. It will now be known as charitable as well, thanks to the recent sale of the Starlight Scepter, a silvery wand that puts out a wonderful rainbow effect. During the charity event (scheduled to run for an entire year) 50 percent of the wand's cost -- roughly $4 US -- will be donated directly to the Starlight Children's Foundation, a charity that helps seriously ill children and their families. This would be the perfect opportunity to look good and feel good at the same time.

Not only that, but if you purchase one of the newly submitted Mabinogi soundtrack songs from iTunes, 100 percent of the proceeds go to the charity. That means that for every 99-cent song, Starlight Children's Foundation will receive 35 cents! The Foundation has been helping children with serious illnesses for more than 25 years. So, the next time someone asks you where you got that killer looking wand, you can tell him how you helped the foundation!

MassivelyMabinogi to host in-game fundraiser for Starlight Foundation originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmancash-shopcharityf2pfree-to-playftpfundraiseriTunesmabinoginexon-americasoundtrackstarlight-childrens-foundationsstarlight-foundationFri, 19 Nov 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events]]>http://www.massively.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/http://www.massively.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/http://www.massively.com/2010/10/27/free-for-all-13-spooky-free-to-play-halloween-events/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ah, Halloween. The dark Xmas. Around our house, Halloween is king. Despite the fact that we have no kids to dress up and parade around the neighborhood, we will still hand out tons of candy to all the trick-or-treaters. Until that spooky night, however, we love to spend the time exploring different Halloween events in our favorite MMORPGs.

MMOs are perfect for such events -- they have the players to fill them out, the ability to host whatever kind of event they want, and a lot of optional blood and gore. Some of the events fit perfectly in their game-world, and some stick out like a stock broker on D&D night. Either way, there is always a lot of fun to be had, and sometimes very cool loot to snag! (Like that sweet ride pictured above -- got it on my first try.)

Read on for some of my favorite events -- none of them costing a dime.

Continue reading Free for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events

MassivelyFree for All: Thirteen spooky free-to-play Halloween events originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alganonbeau-hindmancostume-contestf2pfeaturedflyfffree-realmsfree-to-playFreejackftpglobal-agendagrand-fantasiahalloweenin-game-eventsmabinogiMapleStorypuzzle-piratesvindictuswizard-101zentiaWed, 27 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mabinogi reveals Return of the Hero, 12th generation updates]]>http://www.massively.com/2010/10/20/mabinogi-reveals-return-of-the-hero-12th-generation-updates/http://www.massively.com/2010/10/20/mabinogi-reveals-return-of-the-hero-12th-generation-updates/http://www.massively.com/2010/10/20/mabinogi-reveals-return-of-the-hero-12th-generation-updates/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It's been awhile since we checked in with Nexon's anime-inspired Mabinogi MMORPG. The stalwart free-to-play title is gearing up for its latest "Generation" patch (the game's twelfth), an update called Return of the Hero that's packed with a good bit of new content. In addition to new quests, capture-the-flag events, and fashion shows, the update will feature bonus items for players who have already completed the previous Eleventh Generation content, as well as seasonal celebration events.

These events include Halloween-themed quest lines, rare customization options, new pets, and a time-limited opportunity to befriend the Angry Pumpkin (who will then permanently accompany your character throughout the world of Erinn).

Head over to the official Mabinogi website for more information.

[Update]: Nexon has just released a new video for Return of the Hero. Check it out after the break.

Continue reading Mabinogi reveals Return of the Hero, 12th generation updates

MassivelyMabinogi reveals Return of the Hero, 12th generation updates originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angry-pumpkinf2pfree-to-playhalloweenhalloween-eventmabinoginexonnexon-americapatchpetsquestsreturn-of-the-heroupdateWed, 20 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mabinogi Europe reveals huge Uncharted Lands expansion]]>http://www.massively.com/2010/09/08/mabinogi-europe-reveals-huge-uncharted-lands-expansion/http://www.massively.com/2010/09/08/mabinogi-europe-reveals-huge-uncharted-lands-expansion/http://www.massively.com/2010/09/08/mabinogi-europe-reveals-huge-uncharted-lands-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Nexon Europe, makers of the sprawling Mabinogi free-to-play fantasy MMORPG, have just released the Uncharted Lands expansion that brings massive amounts of content updates to European players in one fell swoop. Uncharted Lands collates three years of Korean updates and two years of North American updates into one patch, culminating in the European Mabinogi client being brought up to speed a mere four months after its initial launch.

Included in the update are two new races (giants and elves), multiple new explorable locations (Connous, Physis, Courcle, and the city of Tara, among others), and flying mounts. Finally, social features such as the postal system, fashion and cooking contests, and activities including jousting and farming have been made available in the huge update.

You can learn more at the official Mabinogi website, as well as check out an expansion trailer after the cut.

Continue reading Mabinogi Europe reveals huge Uncharted Lands expansion

MassivelyMabinogi Europe reveals huge Uncharted Lands expansion originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionf2pfree-to-playmabinogimabinogi-expansionmabinogi-uncharted-landsNexonnexon-europetraileruncharted-landsuncharted-lands-expansionvideoWed, 08 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexon grows as MapleStory hits 7 million registered users]]>http://www.massively.com/2010/08/03/nexon-grows-as-maplestory-hits-7-million-registered-users/http://www.massively.com/2010/08/03/nexon-grows-as-maplestory-hits-7-million-registered-users/http://www.massively.com/2010/08/03/nexon-grows-as-maplestory-hits-7-million-registered-users/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It must be said that Nexon is having a good year. A very, very good year indeed.

As free-to-play titles are on the rise in the MMORPG genre, Nexon is reaping the benefits of this trend as more people flock to its titles like Mabinogi. As a result, the company has seen a 26% jump in revenue for the second quarter this year, and its profits are trending up compared to the same time last year.

Even for F2P MMOs, Nexon's games boast impressive numbers: MapleStory has crossed the seven million registered user line, Combat Arms four million and Mabinogi one million. "Our player base and revenues continue to expand, which tells us that gamers find that our free-to-play business model fits their play needs," said Nexon America CEO Daniel Kim.

Nexon is also looking forward to releasing Vindictus, a promising title that we most recently previewed at San Diego Comic-Con last month.

MassivelyNexon grows as MapleStory hits 7 million registered users originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combat-armscomic-concomic-con-2010daniel-kimf2pfree-to-playftpmabinogimaple-is-a-funny-wordmaplestorynexonprofitssdcc-2010vindictusTue, 03 Aug 2010 09:00:00 EST