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[EverQuest II's GU63 tweaks crafting, adds hundreds of new items]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/everquest-iis-gu63-tweaks-crafting-adds-hundreds-of-new-items/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/everquest-iis-gu63-tweaks-crafting-adds-hundreds-of-new-items/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/everquest-iis-gu63-tweaks-crafting-adds-hundreds-of-new-items/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

EverQuest II - armorsmith at the forge
If you've been slacking when it comes to keeping up with EverQuest II tradeskill news lately, the recent Game Update 63 (otherwise known as Skyshrine) featured quite a few noteworthy tweaks. Sony Online Entertainment has posted a dev interview detailing some of the larger changes, including the addition of several hundred new craftable items.

SOE's Brian "Omougi" Ferguson says that Carpenters and Alchemists got a lot of love during this patch, and combat-only players will be pleased to know that crafters can now make even more handy upgrades. There are two new consumables for each class archetype, and Ferguson is particularly fond of the tank versions which gives meatshields an additional 20% damage reduction for 12 seconds.

Full details are yours at the official EQII website.

MassivelyEverQuest II's GU63 tweaks crafting, adds hundreds of new items originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>craftingeq-2eq-iieq2eq2-craftingeqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playnon-combat-gameplaysoesonysony-online-entertainmenttradeskillingtradeskillsyayMon, 21 May 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ultima Online rolling out a new installment of the Awakening]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/ultima-online-rolling-out-a-new-installment-of-the-awakening/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/ultima-online-rolling-out-a-new-installment-of-the-awakening/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/ultima-online-rolling-out-a-new-installment-of-the-awakening/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In some cases, sleep is better than awakening. Like waking up to a fight against a giant squid monster.
Ultima Online is preparing a continuation of the game's latest global arc with tomorrow's patch. Act VI of The Awakening asks players to assist in crafting a number of alchemical preparations, with a number of rewards available for players who actively try to crack the puzzle of the correct ingredients. More information will be available from the official site as well as an in-game NPC. If you need more time to prepare, don't worry -- the quest is going active in July and lasting until mid-August.

If you're not willing to wait, the new patch also sees a revamp of the Covetous Dungeon. The first floor remains largely unchanged, but levels two and three both feature a new system for the game in which players accumulate points for defeating monsters that can later be turned in for new rewards. Last but not least, vanilla plants have been added to the game's gardening system, giving players another new thing to explore when not fighting monsters or preparing for the next part of The Awakening.

MassivelyUltima Online rolling out a new installment of the Awakening originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-mmodungeon-revampsdungeonseaelectronic-artsfantasygame-mechanicsglobal-arclord-britishmythicmythic-entertainmentnew-contentnew-patchnewspatchpatch-notespatchesrevampsthe-awakeningultimaultima onlineuouo-awakeningupdatesMon, 21 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SWTOR patch 1.3 bringing group finder, legacy perks]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/swtor-patch-1-3-bringing-group-finder-legacy-perks/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/swtor-patch-1-3-bringing-group-finder-legacy-perks/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/swtor-patch-1-3-bringing-group-finder-legacy-perks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

SWTOR
A long time ago on a server far, far away, the Imperial forces BioWare prepared a Star Wars: The Old Republic update to rule the online world: patch 1.3. Called Allies, patch 1.3 will usher in a group finder, character transfers, and legacy perks.

The group finder will aid in banding together interested adventurers to tackle operations and flashpoints. Lead Designer Daniel Erickson said that the time is ripe for the feature, as players are spread out in levels and are rolling plenty of alts. Saying that BioWare wants to "respect the communities" that have formed, Erickson reports that the group finder will not be cross-server.

He also revealed some of the other key features for patch 1.3. Additional perks to the Legacy system will allow players to customize their experience; we'll see new ports, earlier access to mounts, and bonus XP modifiers for PvP. The patch will also change social gear to fit the armor type of the class using it, server transfers, and the ability to add augments to any crafting items. Looking past 1.3, Erickson promises a "return to big content" with patch 1.4.

If you're a fan of the SWTOR novels, you'll also be delighted to hear that Drew Karpyshyn announced that his next novel, Annihilation, is scheduled for November 13th.

You can watch the patch 1.3 preview video after the jump!

Continue reading SWTOR patch 1.3 bringing group finder, legacy perks

MassivelySWTOR patch 1.3 bringing group finder, legacy perks originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.31.3-patch1.3-updateadaptive-gearalliesannihilationaugmentsbiowarecharacter-transfercharacter-transferscraftingdaniel-ericksonDrew-Karpyshyndungeon-findereaelectronic-artsgroup-finderinterviewlegacylegacy-perkslegacy-systemlucasartspatchpatch-1.3people-finderpreviewsci-fiserver-transferserver-transfersstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtorthe-old-republictorupdateupdate-1.3videoMon, 21 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vindictus EU update features two new raid bosses]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/vindictus-eu-update-features-two-new-raid-bosses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Vindictus - Glas Gobbledegook something or other
This must be the day for sexy MMO news. On the heels of one risque announcement, we have a trailer for the latest Vindictus EU update that features a scantily clad lass named Succubus and a demonic colossal called Glas Ghaibheleann. Succubus is, well, a succubus, and she's also a raid boss who will challenge players like no other.

Except for maybe Glas Ghaibheleann. He's also a raid boss. While he's not quite as attractive as his partner-in-crime, he's equally deadly. Nexon says that the pair will awe players with their appearance and unique abilities. Get a load of the latest Vindictus EU update in the video after the cut.

[Source: Nexon Europe press release]

Continue reading Vindictus EU update features two new raid bosses

MassivelyVindictus EU update features two new raid bosses originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmof2pfantasyfree-to-playglas-ghaibheleannnexonnexon-americanexon-entertainmentnexon-europeraidraidingraidssuccubustrailervideovindictusvindictus-euvindictus-europevindictus-raid-bossvindictus-raid-bossesMon, 21 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EVE Evolved: Preparing for the Inferno expansion]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/eve-evolved-preparing-for-the-inferno-expansion/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/eve-evolved-preparing-for-the-inferno-expansion/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/eve-evolved-preparing-for-the-inferno-expansion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVE Evolved title image
The Inferno expansion is set to launch on Tuesday May 22nd, promising a complete revamp of EVE Online's war declaration system and a whole host of new modules. If you're in a wardec corp, you'll need to make a few adjustments to the way you operate when the patch goes live. The minimum war fee will increase to 50 million ISK even if you're declaring war on a small corporation, making very small corps less-appealing targets. The fee increases based on the number of members in the target corp, but it doesn't start increasing until around the 130-member mark. If you want to get your money's worth, you'll be best off picking a target corp with 100-150 members or selecting very high-value small targets.

Be very wary of wardeccing large alliances after the patch. While the previous war system swung in favour of the attacker, the new system has gone to the opposite extreme. Large corps and alliances are now significantly more costly and dangerous to declare war on, especially as the defender can now call mercenaries into the war at any time. Players have complained that the increasing war costs could be abused by getting all alliance members to add alts to the corp, but this would be a logistical nightmare to apply in practice and would increase fees by only a few hundred million ISK. If alt padding becomes a problem, CCP will undoubtedly step in and revise the fee structure.

In this week's EVE Evolved, I look at the new modules and gameplay changes coming in Tuesday's Inferno expansion and give some tips on preparing for the patch.

Continue reading EVE Evolved: Preparing for the Inferno expansion

MassivelyEVE Evolved: Preparing for the Inferno expansion originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancillaryarchaeologybhaalgornblobblobbingblueprintblueprintsccpccp-gamesdominixeveeve-evolvedeve-onlineexpansionexplorationfeaturedfleetganghackinginfernolabsmagnetometricmagsheathneutraliserpvpradarresearchsandboxsci-fishield-boostershield-tankingtanktankingtech-1tech-2wormholeSun, 20 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Perpetuum expansion coming May 30th, bringing terraforming, new land masses]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/perpetuum-expansion-coming-may-30th-bringing-terraforming-new/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/perpetuum-expansion-coming-may-30th-bringing-terraforming-new/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/perpetuum-expansion-coming-may-30th-bringing-terraforming-new/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Perpetuum robot duel
A couple of weeks ago, we told you about Perpetuum's new player-build settlements functionality and its new test server. Now, the devs at Avatar Creations have even more exciting news: an expansion!

It's called Gamma Frontier, and Avatar calls it the biggest expansion since the game went live over 18 months ago. Player corporations will be able to build home bases, launch industrial projects, and colonize the new Gamma islands (not to mention defend them from invasion-minded players).

The expansion also features extensive new terrain-shaping abilities. Avatar has given players full control over the land, including the ability to form hills, dig holes, and level the surrounding terrain as they see fit. Due to complications with pre-existing systems and landmasses, the terraforming capabilities are available only on the new Gamma islands (24 in total). Click past the cut to see a brief video of terraforming in action, then head to the Perpetuum website to read all the expansion details.

[Source: Perpetuum newsletter]

Continue reading Perpetuum expansion coming May 30th, bringing terraforming, new land masses

MassivelyPerpetuum expansion coming May 30th, bringing terraforming, new land masses originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-creationsexpansiongamma-frontiergamma-islandsniaperpetuumperpetuum-expansionplayer-built-settlementsplayer-citiesplayer-contentplayer-generated-contentsandboxsci-fiterraformingtrailertrailersuser-generated-contentvideovideosSun, 20 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: An exclusive look at the Runespan in RuneScape]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/mmobility-an-exclusive-look-at-the-runespan-in-runescape/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/mmobility-an-exclusive-look-at-the-runespan-in-runescape/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/mmobility-an-exclusive-look-at-the-runespan-in-runescape/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

RuneScape screenshot
Jagex, developer of the ever-popular browser-based game RuneScape, is known for its rapid development schedule. Heck, I fully expect that this article will be outdated by the time I finish its rough draft. Players of the Jagex flagship MMO can log in to find new items, places to explore, and quests to do almost weekly. I tend to poke my nose into the game several times a week, so I know that a more casual player has endless amounts of content to run through. I might level up my construction skill and then switch to something completely different. I just recently spent an afternoon playing with just the new bonfire skill.

Of course, those pesky developers are at it again: giving me more content to go through even though my highest skills hover around only the level 40 mark. This time it's the Runespan, a brand-new area that helps players level runecrafting by offering them a one-stop shop that is more casual and non-competitive than the normal runecraft experience.

I got the chance to call up some of the lead developers on the phone and ask not only about the Runespan but about the new FPS improvements, so be sure to check that out!

Continue reading MMObility: An exclusive look at the Runespan in RuneScape

MassivelyMMObility: An exclusive look at the Runespan in RuneScape originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedclassic-mmof2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playinterviewinterviewsjagexjagex-games-studiommobilitymobilemobile-gamingmobile-mmoopinionphonepreviewpreviewsrsrunescapesandboxsmartphonethe-runespanFri, 18 May 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer's 1.4.6 patch brings RvR and scenario changes]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/warhammers-1-4-6-patch-brings-rvr-and-scenario-changes/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/warhammers-1-4-6-patch-brings-rvr-and-scenario-changes/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/18/warhammers-1-4-6-patch-brings-rvr-and-scenario-changes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Warhammer Online - 1.4.6 patch
There's a new patch on Warhammer's public test server. The 1.4.6 update is designed to tweak both realm vs. realm and scenario PvP. In terms of RvR, one of the biggest changes is the shift from multiple city invasion instances to a single instance. The instance will support 60 players from each realm -- 120 total. "Once that number is reached, no further reinforcements will be allowed," according to the update notes on the WAR website.

Scenario brackets are also being altered. Whereas the old system grouped players into tiers based on character level, the new mechanic uses both levels and renown rank. Players from level one to 15 go into bracket one, while players of renown ranks zero to 69 and 70 to 100 go into brackets two and three, respectively.

[Edit: Clarified 120 total players in the instance]

MassivelyWarhammer's 1.4.6 patch brings RvR and scenario changes originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.4.6-patcheaelectronic-artsendless-trialfantasymythicmythic-entertainmentpvprvrscenarioswarwar-1.4.6warhammerwarhammer-1.4.6warhammer-onlineFri, 18 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DC Universe Online shows off the new Shield weapon]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/dc-universe-online-shows-off-the-new-shield-weapon/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/dc-universe-online-shows-off-the-new-shield-weapon/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/dc-universe-online-shows-off-the-new-shield-weapon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Based off of a Kirby character who was based off of another Kirby character owned by a competing company.
Shields generally aren't thought of as a weapon; they're usually seen as the exact opposite of a weapon. But in the superheroic milieu, all that changes. A shield is something to be used offensively, and in DC Universe Online's next major update, players will begin wielding the shield for their own superheroic (or villainous) capers. A recent interview with creative director Jens Andersen discusses the intended role of the shield in combat.

Andersen explains that while the new weapon comes along in a very PvP-centered update, it's not meant to be used specifically for PvP; the team just wants to have something new for players to enjoy no matter what. In play, shields are similar to a staff weapon, but unlike most other weapons, the shield can continue to build a combo after a heavy strike by moving back to light strikes. That should make the shield a very aggressive option -- perhaps odd for something that's not generally thought of as a weapon.

MassivelyDC Universe Online shows off the new Shield weapon originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combatconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodlcf2pfree-to-playinterviewnew-abilitiesnew-contentnew-weaponspatchesplaystation-3playstation3ps3shieldshieldssoesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroesthe-last-laughupdatesweaponweaponsThu, 17 May 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive Interview: Going global with Fallen Earth's PvP]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/exclusive-interview-going-global-with-fallen-earths-pvp/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/exclusive-interview-going-global-with-fallen-earths-pvp/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/exclusive-interview-going-global-with-fallen-earths-pvp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth
Two of the biggest cornerstones of Fallen Earth have always been crafting and PvP, and its these cornerstones that GamersFirst is enriching come patch 2.4. The patch, called Global Territory Control, is taking these elements and firing them up in ways that any PvPer or crafter should find exciting.

We hopped on the phone with Associate Producer Asa Reed, Director of Operations Joe Willmon, and Senior Game Designer Marie Croall to talk about why 2.4 will be the patch that will change the wasteland forever -- and why you should anticipate it, whether you're a crafter or a player-killer.

Gallery: Fallen Earth Black Box Gear

Continue reading Exclusive Interview: Going global with Fallen Earth's PvP

MassivelyExclusive Interview: Going global with Fallen Earth's PvP originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.4asa-reedcraftingf2pfaction-controlfallen-earthfefree-to-playg1gamersfirstglobal-territory-controlharvesterharvestersharvestinginterviewinterviewsJoe-Willmonkeepkeepsmarie-croallpatch-2.4post-apocpost-apocalypticpreviewpvpresourcessandboxsci-fiwastelandsThu, 17 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spirit Tales launching Crisis of Jade Forest next week]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/spirit-tales-launching-crisis-of-jade-forest-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Diabeetus.
It's really hard to imagine anything in the saccharine world of Spirit Tales being properly termed a crisis, but the game's newest update is aiming in that direction. The Crisis of Jade Forest goes live on May 23rd, giving players a chance to tackle an extra-difficult version of the normal Jade Forest area with extra boss-enriched goodness. Successful players have plenty of motivation, however, as the reward for completion involves a chest that could contain items normally reserved for the game's item mall.

Groups of up to five players can enter the battle once per day, which fills the area with deadly monsters and 10 special bosses. Successfully defeating all of these bosses will grant the chance to earn both rewards that would normally cost real money as well as other little trinkets. it's also meant to be a great way to level up, so if you're already in the open beta, you may want to consider a look at the dungeon.

MassivelySpirit Tales launching Crisis of Jade Forest next week originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animedungeondungeon-contentf2pfree-to-playkoramgamekoramgame-ltdmicrotransactionsnew-contentpatchespreviewsspecial-contentspirit-talesupdatesThu, 17 May 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spend a day as a Fallen Earth Premium Member on us!]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/spend-a-day-as-a-fallen-earth-premium-member-on-us/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/spend-a-day-as-a-fallen-earth-premium-member-on-us/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/spend-a-day-as-a-fallen-earth-premium-member-on-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth - Pitchblende
Fallen Earth is a post-apocalyptic MMO that always seems to be on that short list of games that everyone means to try out one day. And when people try it, positive praise usually follows.

To help celebrate the upcoming 2.4 patch, we're giving you a chance to play the game as a top-tier premium member for one day, complete with massive XP, crafting, and PvP currency buffs, the Commander's Aura stackable buff that allows you to spread the benefits among your party members, a 20% marketplace discount, and more. In addition, we're giving you the Light Slugthrower, an advanced version of the starter rifle, which features higher damage output than its little brother.

There's no giveaway page and no key codes on this one; if you want to grab this nifty one-day package for yourself, simply enter the promo code "MASSIVEEARTH" either in-game or by clicking the Redeem Code button on the Fallen Earth website. To access the Marketplace in-game, click on the "$" button on the bottom of your minimap. The code expires on June 1st.

Have fun!

MassivelySpend a day as a Fallen Earth Premium Member on us! originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestsf2pfallen-earthfefree-to-playg1gamersfirstgiveawaygiveawayspatch-2.4post-apocpost-apocalypticpromo-codesandboxsci-fiwastelandsThu, 17 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallen Earth 2.4 patch to feature territory control, automated harvesting, and more]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/fallen-earth-2-4-patch-to-feature-territory-control-automated-h/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/fallen-earth-2-4-patch-to-feature-territory-control-automated-h/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/fallen-earth-2-4-patch-to-feature-territory-control-automated-h/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Fallen Earth - Park City
GamersFirst has formally announced its next update for Fallen Earth. The Global Territory Control patch, or 2.4 if you're counting at home, will bring quite a bit of new functionality to denizens of the game's Grand Canyon wasteland.

As you might expect given the update name, territory control plays a big role. The devs are adding new outposts and settlements throughout the game world that can be conquered by each of Fallen Earth's six player factions. Capturing a settlement grants sole property rights to the controlling faction, which in turn provides valuable mineral extraction capabilities.

The 2.4 patch also features a new 50-plus PvP zone called the The Foothills, new player-crafted prospecting and harvesting technology, and various quality of life tweaks like bulk purchasing, merchant buyback, and faster mounting. Check in with Massively later this week for more exclusive info on the new patch as well as an interview with the devs.

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

MassivelyFallen Earth 2.4 patch to feature territory control, automated harvesting, and more originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfallen-earthfallen-earth-2.4fallen-earth-gtcfallen-earth-harvestingfallen-earth-prospectingfefree-to-playg1gamersfirstglobal-territory-controlpatchespost-apocpost-apocalypticpvpsandboxsci-fithe-foothillswastelandsThu, 17 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ragnarok Online update introduces the town of Port Malaya]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/16/ragnarok-online-update-introduces-the-town-of-port-malaya/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/16/ragnarok-online-update-introduces-the-town-of-port-malaya/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/16/ragnarok-online-update-introduces-the-town-of-port-malaya/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Port Malaya banner
It's been over a year since we heard anything from Gravity Interactive's long-running title Ragnarok Online, but today, the silence has been broken. The studio has announced the game's newest content update, which will allow players to visit the paradisiacal Port Malaya, where "the water's always warm and the monsters are always dangerous."

Players level 100 and up will find plenty to do in the new port town, such as "dozens of new quests, including an entire suite of daily tasks to perform." New dungeons also await in Port Malaya, and with new dungeons comes new gear and a new tattoo system that will grant players permanent buffs. Players will need all the power they can get to square off against the myriad new MVP Monsters that inhabit the wilds of Port Malaya. More details on the update can be found on Ragnarok Online's official site, so head on over there and set sail for Port Malaya.

[Source: Gravity Interactive press release]

MassivelyRagnarok Online update introduces the town of Port Malaya originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgravitygravity-interactivepatchpatchesport-malayaragnarokragnarok-onlineroupdateupdatesWed, 16 May 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Runes of Magic shows off the new Champion and Warlock]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/16/runes-of-magic-shows-off-the-new-champion-and-warlock/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/16/runes-of-magic-shows-off-the-new-champion-and-warlock/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/16/runes-of-magic-shows-off-the-new-champion-and-warlock/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Now, if he transformed into a plane, that would be something.
New classes are always exciting. In a game with an established set of abilities and character options, the chance to take a different option helps keep the game engaging and surprising. That's no doubt part of the rationale behind Runes of Magic's two new classes, the Champion and the Warlock. But they're also meant to show off the ingenuity and cleverness of the Dwarves, and in a new preview of these two classes, it becomes clear just how much both will bring to the table.

The Warlock is an arcane caster who has delved into the knowledge of the Shadowforge Dwarves, allowing him to act as either a damage dealer or a support character as the situation warrants. Champions are masters of pseudo-mystical forge techniques, with the Champion ultimately being capable of transforming into a special Runic Robot form for increased damage and durability. There are only a few more weeks until the game's next major update, and then players will get to try out the new hybrid classes for themselves.

MassivelyRunes of Magic shows off the new Champion and Warlock originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championclassescoming-patchesf2pfantasyfree-to-playfrogsterfrogster-americafrogster-interactivehybridhybrid-classesmajor-patchesnew-classespatchespreviewpreviewsromrunes-of-magicrunewakerrunewaker-entertainmenttaboreawarlockWed, 16 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DCUO's Last Laugh features Hamill as the Joker, lots of new content]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/16/dcuos-last-laugh-features-hamill-as-the-joker-lots-of-new-cont/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/16/dcuos-last-laugh-features-hamill-as-the-joker-lots-of-new-cont/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/16/dcuos-last-laugh-features-hamill-as-the-joker-lots-of-new-cont/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

DC Universe Online - The Joker cutscene still
Sony Online Entertainment is bringing out the big guns for its next DC Universe Online content patch. As we reported last week, the Joker is set to return for The Last Laugh, and fortunately for everyone, his voiceover duties will be handled by none other than Mark Hamill.

Hamill is joined by DC stalwart Arleen Sorkin (that's Harley Quinn to you, mistah), and Adam Baldwin returns to the role of Superman for the first time since DCUO's launch. The Last Laugh also features a new shield weapon, four new safe house battles, and 8v8 throw-downs in both the Watchtower and the Hall of Doom.

The Last Laugh will be freely available to legendary DCUO members, while free and premium players can purchase it via the in-game marketplace, the official website, or the PlayStation Network.

[Source: SOE press release]

MassivelyDCUO's Last Laugh features Hamill as the Joker, lots of new content originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 16 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-baldwinarleen-sorkinconsoleconsolesdc-universedc-universe-onlinedcuodcuo-last-laughdcuo-shield-powerf2pfree-to-playharley-quinnlast-laughmark-hamillpatchesplaystation-3playstation3ps3soesony-online-entertainmentsuperherosuperheroesthe-jokerthe-last-laughWed, 16 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's James Ohlen shares the formula behind PvP nerfs]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/15/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-james-ohlen-shares-the-formula-behind/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/15/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-james-ohlen-shares-the-formula-behind/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/15/hyperspace-beacon-swtors-james-ohlen-shares-the-formula-behind/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's James Ohlen shares the formula behind PvP nerfs
When Update 1.2 launched for Star Wars: The Old Republic, most players witnessed some major changes to their classes. In my opinion, these changes weren't game-breaking, but they did require that some players re-evaluate how they played. Some classes were changed so drastically in this patch players claimed they felt as if they were truly playing a completely different class.

Major changes like this do not happen without reason, and from my time spent with SWTOR developers, I know that they are passionately interested in making their game the best it can be. So I asked Game Director James Ohlen some questions about these mechanical changes. In true James Ohlen fashion, he was more than happy to answer in intricate detail, and I'm excited to bring you those answers here in the Hyperspace Beacon.

Continue reading Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's James Ohlen shares the formula behind PvP nerfs

MassivelyHyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's James Ohlen shares the formula behind PvP nerfs originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebuff-stackingclass-balanceeaelectronic-artsfeaturedgame-directorGame-Mechanicshyperspace-beaconinterviewjames-ohlenlucasartsopinionplayer-vs-playerPvPsci-fisith-inquisitorsith-sorcerersorcererstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicswtorthe-old-republictorupdate-1.2Tue, 15 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Allods Online prepares players for patch 3.0.2 with a new mini-site]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/allods-online-prepares-players-for-patch-3-0-2-with-a-new-mini-s/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/allods-online-prepares-players-for-patch-3-0-2-with-a-new-mini-s/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/allods-online-prepares-players-for-patch-3-0-2-with-a-new-mini-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Allods Online
Allods Online's mascots are back for another humorous video, as Troll and Crab try their hands (claws) at making potions. It doesn't quite go as expected, but it's hard to blame Crab for what happens (he's just an earnest little guy). This is all to promote the game's newest update, patch 3.0.2, which promises to be a savory concoction for players to quaff. Over the weekend, gPotato opened up a new mini-site to promote the update and has since posted several new articles highlighting the changes.

Some of patch 3.0.2's big selling points include a revamp of the Alchemy profession, the ability for pets to do the looting, a neat-sounding mentor system, a new skirmish called The Deserted Farm, a free-for-all treasure hunting space, a new raid boss, and better questing.

Before you head over to see all of the patch changes, make sure to catch up on the latest episode of Troll and Crab after the break!

[Thanks to Alex for the tip!]

Continue reading Allods Online prepares players for patch 3.0.2 with a new mini-site

MassivelyAllods Online prepares players for patch 3.0.2 with a new mini-site originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.0.2alchemyallodsallods-onlineastral-spaceastrum-nivalf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgpotatohumormentormentor-systemmini-sitepatchpatch-3.0.2patch-previewpet-lootingpvpskirmishtrailertreasure-hunttroll-and-crabvideoMon, 14 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online releases Update 7: Shades of the Past]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/lord-of-the-rings-online-releases-update-7-shades-of-the-past/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/lord-of-the-rings-online-releases-update-7-shades-of-the-past/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/lord-of-the-rings-online-releases-update-7-shades-of-the-past/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
Lord of the Rings Online's Update 7 is upon us, and it's established itself as taking a step forward... and a step back into the past. Featuring a new skirmish, a revamp of both Moria and the old Fornost instance, and an interesting addition to the legendary item system, Update 7 has a smattering of both endgame and mid-game content for most players to enjoy.

As always, it's worth combing through the notes for the smaller changes. Some of these include new and updated maps, friendlier Elves in Lothlorien who won't shoot you on sight, and Audacity lowering power costs in PvMP.

The official patch notes are up and the game will have the servers patched up by mid-morning. In the meantime, make sure to read up on what we think of the update's big selling points in our recent Road to Mordor column.

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online releases Update 7: Shades of the Past originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfornostfree-to-playlegendary-itemslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamoriapatchpatch-notesshades-of-the-pastskirmishturbineturbine-entertainmentupdateupdate-7update-notesMon, 14 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Road to Mordor: What Update 7 means for you]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/12/the-road-to-mordor-what-update-7-means-for-you/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/12/the-road-to-mordor-what-update-7-means-for-you/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/12/the-road-to-mordor-what-update-7-means-for-you/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
Without fail, the second I'm done writing this column for Massively, Turbine releases the big news of a major patch, and I have to wait a whole week to talk about it. In the case of Lord of the Rings Online's Update 7, I'm not that upset. I definitely was underwhelmed by it all initially, but now that I have had a whole week to digest it, read through the test server notes, and scope out the Moria dev diary that was posted, I feel like I'm in a much better position to talk about it.

So what does this game update mean for you? That's a good question, and it really depends on where you are in your leveling journey. New players won't be fazed by it whatsoever, but both mid-game and endgame adventurers are going to have some new (and reworked) content to devour. I am heartened that Turbine doesn't have tunnel-vision for the endgame and is still willing to go back and examine what does and doesn't work about its earlier content.

So let's walk through the major highlights of Update 7: Shades of the Past and give it the ol' Road to Mordor analysis, shall we?

Continue reading The Road to Mordor: What Update 7 means for you

MassivelyThe Road to Mordor: What Update 7 means for you originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 12 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfeaturedfornostfree-to-playinventorylegendary-itemlegendary-item-systemlegendary-itemslilord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromoriaopinionroad-to-mordorsapienceshades-of-the-pastskirmishstar-lit-crystalstar-lit-crystalsStorm-on-Methedrasthe-road-to-mordorturbineturbine-entertainmentupdate-7Sat, 12 May 2012 12:00:00 EST