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[Aeria Games unveils new multiplayer shooter, Born to Fire]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/aeria-games-unveils-new-mmofps-born-to-fire/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/aeria-games-unveils-new-mmofps-born-to-fire/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/aeria-games-unveils-new-mmofps-born-to-fire/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Born to Fire image
Aeria Games, with numerous free-to-play titles already under its belt, just unveiled a new multiplayer first-person shooter called Born to Fire. This character-driven game is set following the Cold War, when rules of engagement are thrown out the window and the world is a free-fire zone.

Director of Publishing Tom Nichols describes the game: "In Born to Fire, players step in the boots of five distinct classes of elite operatives engaged in a global firefight for domination. With the instant gratification of one-click matchmaking and the in-depth analysis provided by elaborate replay tools, Born to Fire represents a new class of character-driven, highly customizable MMOFPS that's easy to get into but nearly impossible to fully master."

The five classes available for play are Rifleman, Duelist, Ranger, Heavy-Hitter, or Warden; each comes with unique backstory, tactics, and a fully customizable arsenal.

Sign-ups for closed beta are going on now! Players can keep informed of the latest news, updates, and contests by "liking" Born To Fire's Facebook page. Also, be sure to check out the screenshots and artwork in the attached gallery.

Gallery: Born to Fire

Born to Fire


[Source: Areia Games press release]

MassivelyAeria Games unveils new multiplayer shooter, Born to Fire originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aeriaaeria-gamesBorn-to-Firefirst-person-shooterfpsgalleriesgallerynew-titlesscreenshotswarMon, 21 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon to offer special limited-time deals on TERA, RIFT, others [Updated]]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/amazon-to-offer-special-limited-time-deals-on-tera-rift-others/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/amazon-to-offer-special-limited-time-deals-on-tera-rift-others/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/17/amazon-to-offer-special-limited-time-deals-on-tera-rift-others/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

TERA screenshot
Have you been watching TERA via livestreams and wistfully wishing you could jump in and join but you haven't wanted to plunk down the cash at launch? Well as long as you don't mind not having a box to display on your shelf, your waiting has actually paid off! Amazon is kicking off a 12-day digital "MAYhem" sale today and offering select MMO titles at a significant discount on specific days. Those deals are as follows:
Mark your calendar if you don't want to miss these offers.

[Update: We've added in the TERA sale on May 26th as well.]

[Source: Amazon press release]

MassivelyAmazon to offer special limited-time deals on TERA, RIFT, others [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 17 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon.comblueholebluehole-studiosconsoleconsolesen-masseen-masse-entertainmentfantasyffff11ff14ffxiffxivfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xifinal-fantasy-xivriftrift-literift-planes-of-telararvrsquaresquare-enixterathree-faction-pvptriontrion-worldsThu, 17 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World character creator]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-world-character-creator/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Image
The real secret to The Secret World is that it's the Matrix (see the above picture from the character creator that resembles Carrie-Anne Moss).

Actually, the first and most important stop for an MMO gamer is the character creator. When you're in beta, it might not be as important because the character will be tossed away in a few short weeks. However, in the live game, this character will not only be the same one you might see for years to come; it's also a reflection of you as a player. There are some players who insist on playing the ugliest races in the game, while others want the prettiest or the strongest. Personally, I lean toward playing female characters. I'm not sure what that says about me.

The creation of our character says so much about us, so it is extremely important that western RPGs and especially MMORPGs allow us to express ourselves. The Secret World's character creator has its good elements and its bad, but the most important part is how much Funcom's version allows us to express our personalities.

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World character creator

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World character creator originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaoccharacter-creatoreaElectronic-ArtsfantasyfeaturedFirst-Impressionsfuncomhands-onhorrormythologyopinionpreviewpreviewssci-fantasysecret-worldthe-secret-worldtrailertrailerstswvideovideo-previewvideosFri, 11 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[World of Tanks launches in Southeast Asia this week]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/26/world-of-tanks-launches-in-southeast-asia-this-week/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/26/world-of-tanks-launches-in-southeast-asia-this-week/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/26/world-of-tanks-launches-in-southeast-asia-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - burning tank
World of Tanks has some gaudy user numbers. Even though MMO companies and PR firms are known for their Hollywood accounting when it comes to player statistics, 24 million users is a lot any way you slice it.

It's not enough for Wargaming.net, though, so the company is shipping its brand of lobby-based World War II tank action to Southeast Asia this week. The game is coming to Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand, and it's bringing its arsenal of more than 150 armored vehicles with it.

Local support, distribution, marketing, and operational concerns are in the hands of SEA Gaming. World of Tanks originally launched in March of 2011 as the first game in a planned trilogy of World War II-based action titles.

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWorld of Tanks launches in Southeast Asia this week originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24-million-usersf2pfree-to-playhistoricalpvpseasea-gamingtanktankswarwargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-of-tanks-southeast-asiawotThu, 26 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Test drive a new BMW in Auto Club Revolution]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/24/test-drive-a-new-bmw-in-auto-club-revolution/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/24/test-drive-a-new-bmw-in-auto-club-revolution/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/24/test-drive-a-new-bmw-in-auto-club-revolution/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Auto Club Revolution: BMW 1 Series M Coupe
Auto Club Revolution doesn't get a lot of ink from the mainstream MMO press, but it's a pretty interesting title if you're a gearhead. It's more of a virtual world and community hub than a typical progression game (but there is plenty of progression to be had nonetheless). Eutechnyx has just announced a partnership with BMW that gives players a chance to drive and customize a virtual version of the company's new 1 Series M Coupe. The ACR coupe was built with input from BMW designers, as was the new Victoria Harbour road course that you'll drive it on.

ACR is a free-to-play racing title that delivers a "console-quality racing experience," according to Eutechnyx. Gamers can collect, customize, and race models from over 50 real-world manufacturers. Visit the game's official website and sign up to access the challenges needed to unlock your new BMW.

[Source: Eutechnyx press release]

MassivelyTest drive a new BMW in Auto Club Revolution originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acracr-bmwauto-club-revolutionauto-club-revolution-bmwbmweutechnyxf2pfree-to-playracingracing-mmoracing-mmosvictoria-harbourTue, 24 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Looking for the near-perfect MUD-like browser MMO]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/11/free-for-all-looking-for-the-near-perfect-mud-like-browser-mmo/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/11/free-for-all-looking-for-the-near-perfect-mud-like-browser-mmo/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/11/free-for-all-looking-for-the-near-perfect-mud-like-browser-mmo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Browser screenshot
I need your help. If you are a reader, then I need you to open your memory boxes and take a look around at the bottom. Shuffle around where all the remnants of favorite past MMOs settle and see if you can find me something. If you are a developer who is reading this, then you might indeed have some special insight into my issue.

I need a game. A special game. It must fit a certain mold that is very particularly fitted to my very specific needs and wants. It's a tall order, to say the least.

Now, I understand how to use Google. At least once a week I am asked something along the lines of "Where do you find these weird games you cover?" I am always tempted to link the questioner to Google and walk away, but generally I tell him it is a combination of different efforts: some searching, some tipping from readers, and more than a smidge of good luck. Also understand that I have a lot of good titles keeping me busy, but I tend to become sort of obsessed with little projects along the way. So what do I need this week?

I need a semi-graphical, browser-based MUD-like MMO that features great customization for characters, text, and interface, that's what.

Continue reading Free for All: Looking for the near-perfect MUD-like browser MMO

MassivelyFree for All: Looking for the near-perfect MUD-like browser MMO originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedbrowser-based-MMOsdie2nitedomain-of-heroesf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumgraphical-mudmagic-duelmagicduelmudopinionWed, 11 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: I got the Second Life inventory management blues]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/04/free-for-all-i-got-the-second-life-inventory-management-blues/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/04/free-for-all-i-got-the-second-life-inventory-management-blues/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/04/free-for-all-i-got-the-second-life-inventory-management-blues/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Second Life screenshot
Every year I attempt to go through my Second Life inventory in the hope that it actually works out for me. I really do want to get rid of the 7,000+ items I have after eight years in the game (my game-birthday is on May 26th!), but it's such a daunting task. Where do you start? Is organization really even needed? Well, yes it is, from what I have heard. Everyone is running in-world carrying endless pockets filled with everything possible, and that's going to cause some lag and effort on the server's part.

Also, I have an obsession with minimizing my life. I hate physical stuff. It takes up room, collects dust, and just sits there. Sure, I maintain all of my art if I can and some other important items like pictures and cute little knick-knacks, but otherwise, if I don't use it, it gets tossed, sold, or set on the curb for the junk-people to grab.

I feel the same way about Second Life. There's a mental burden that years of junk presses onto someone, digital representation or not. It's no wonder those people in that Hoarders show look so down; it's a hard life to lose the ability to throw anything away, ever.

I am making a stand, slowly. I am going to get this inventory under control by coming up with some ideas to help me along.

Continue reading Free for All: I got the Second Life inventory management blues

MassivelyFree for All: I got the Second Life inventory management blues originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanEverQuest-2everquest-iif2pfeaturedfree-for-allfree-to-playfreemiumftpinventory-managementLindenlinden-labsecond-lifeSOESony-Online-EntertainmentWed, 04 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Auto Club Revolution open beta starts today]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/29/auto-club-revolution-open-beta-starts-today/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/29/auto-club-revolution-open-beta-starts-today/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/29/auto-club-revolution-open-beta-starts-today/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Auto Club Revolution - Lotus at Silverstone
For whatever reason, racing titles have yet to really hit the MMO mainstream. Sure there's Need for Speed World, Test Drive Unlimited 2, iRacing, and the late, great Motor City Online. None of them has broken away from the pack, though, which leaves room for a new entry. Auto Club Revolution has just entered its open beta phase, and Eutechnyx hopes to carve out a foothold for itself thanks to over 40 licensed car manufacturers, 150-plus upgrade parts, and a selection of accurately modeled real-life race tracks that are all completely free.

ACR is free-to-play, and players can unlock new vehicles at no cost via the game's progression mechanics. There's a dual currency system in place that mixes earned credits with E-Bucks, and both may be used to purchase upgrades, and customization options.

The game also features single-player challenges and a variety of racing modes. If that sounds like something you'd like to check out for free, head to the official site to join the open beta.

[Source: Eutechnyx press release]

MassivelyAuto Club Revolution open beta starts today originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acrauto-club-revolutionauto-club-revolution-betabetaeutechnyxf2pfree-to-playopen-betaracingracing-mmoThu, 29 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/15/xsyon-celebrates-its-first-year-of-prelude/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Xsyon screenshot
One year and counting. Crack open the waterskin and raise a toast to Xsyon: Today the post-apocalyptic sandbox by Notorious Games celebrates its first full year of launch. Well, the first year of the official launch of Prelude, a limited first release of the virtual world. Come to think of it, even that date seems a bit nebulous as the pre-order players in the first phase of Year Zero (basically beta) actually had their most significant change on March 11th, 2011 when the second phase launched and totems were introduced.

Semantics aside, Xsyon has come a long way from that official first day. Unlike many games where gameplay is neatly laid out, this indie title gives players only the canvas and a few tools before setting them loose to fashion their world. As the year continued, additional tools were provided and the world became more vibrant and dynamic. Initially barren without any critters (other than your surviving neighbors) to hunt, the world is now populated with large creatures that roam the land, threatening the lives of travelers and hunters alike. Even the lay of the land itself is different as players manipulate and alter the terrain, build settlements, and plant trees. Communities are forming; groups are supporting and even entertaining each other. Civilization is slowly rebuilding.

And that's only the beginning.

Continue reading Xsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude

MassivelyXsyon celebrates its first year of Prelude originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybuildingcraftingdynamic-AIfeaturedharvestingmutantsnotoriousnotorious-gamesplantingplanting-treespost-apocpost-apocalypticpvprebuildingrebuilding-civilizationsandboxsci-fantasysci-fiterraformingxsyonThu, 15 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Miracle fundraising finish for Gridiron Heroes' Kickstarter drive]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/09/miracle-fundraising-finish-for-gridiron-heroes-kickstarter-driv/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/09/miracle-fundraising-finish-for-gridiron-heroes-kickstarter-driv/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/09/miracle-fundraising-finish-for-gridiron-heroes-kickstarter-driv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Sports MMOs haven't gotten off the ground as of yet, and whether their lack of mainstream success is due to design challenges or some other factor, they remain obscure oddities for the most part.

Somewhat less obscure is Tecmo's 1980s Nintendo series based on the National Football League. The aptly named Tecmo Bowl was a mainstay on Nintendo's first 8-bit console, and now a group of fans have helped assure that Gridiron Heroes, a new Facebook game inspired by the classic series, will in fact be made.

Kotaku reports on the last-minute miracle finish to the project's Kickstarter drive, with the development team collecting $7,613 (measured against a goal of $7,500).

MassivelyMiracle fundraising finish for Gridiron Heroes' Kickstarter drive originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american-football-mmocasualf2pfacebookfacebook-gamesfootball-mmofree-to-playgridiron-heroeskickstartermmo-industrysports-mmotecmotecmo-bowltecmo-mmoFri, 09 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously on MV TV: The Week of February 18th]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/02/26/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-18th/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/26/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-18th/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/26/previously-on-mv-tv-the-week-of-february-18th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously on MVTV logo
It's time again to look back on the previous week of MassivelyTV and dig up the greatest moments that we could find! The best thing about this column is that if you have missed the earlier week's streams due to real life hassles, you can now sit back in the comforting arms of the weekend and watch hours and hours of livestreaming action -- only the choicest cuts picked by the staff.

And this week we have some goodies for sure. Starting off, Richie jumped back into Guild Wars, Mike acted like a newb in 0.0 space in EVE Online, and Adventure Mike stole a time machine and visited Nexus: Kingdom of the Winds once again. Plus we saw more Guild Wars action with Adventure Mike, RuneScape on my Thursday stream, and a bit of Zentia!

Make some popcorn, sit back, and click past the cut. Well, click past the cut and hit play first, then sit back. Unless you have a wireless mouse, then you can... well, you get me.

Continue reading Previously on MV TV: The Week of February 18th

MassivelyPreviously on MV TV: The Week of February 18th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetArena-Netbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-basedccpCCP-GamesChangyoueve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playfreemiumftpguild-warslive-eventslivestreammvtvnexus-kingdom-of-the-windspreviously-on-mv-tvpvprunescapeSandboxtwitch-tvtwitchtvzentiaSun, 26 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part two]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/02/10/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-two/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/10/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-two/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/10/mmobility-lets-make-a-mobile-game-part-two/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

My MMO screenshot
Last week I started working with Dave Toulouse, indie developer of Golemizer and Star Corsairs, to build our very own mobile MMO. For the sake of completing the project within the month of February, we kept our game designs simple and easy for anyone to play. The idea was not to create a state-of-the-art video game but instead to build a working framework that illustrated some of the basics of MMO design.

Ironically, my first column on the subject was received rather coolly when I consider my normal column response, but last week's responses taught me a valuable lesson about design: Players often want to talk about what is not possible rather than what is. Dave told me how his players often told him what they wished his games would achieve, without ever considering just how difficult it is to make a game.

Still, there were several great ideas in the comments section. I'm going to use those ideas to break down this week's update.

Continue reading MMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part two

MassivelyMMObility: Let's make a mobile game, part two originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbeau-hindmanbrowserbrowser-baseddave-toulousefeaturedgolemizerIOSMMObilitymobilemy-mmosmartphonestar-corsairsworgoltFri, 10 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/http://www.massively.com/2012/02/01/free-for-all-older-second-life-documentary-still-highlights-tru/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Second Life documentary screenshot
So I was working on this week's Free for All last night when a buddy of mine asked me if I had seen a certain older Second Life documentary. I didn't think I had before, but it turns out that my usual record of consuming everything MMO still stands, and it was fun to re-watch the older documentary again for several reasons.

One of the most important things I noticed about the film was just how universal to MMO gaming the documentary was. The issues it brought up are still issues, the problems with virtual worlds are still problems, and the fact that any technology older than six months looks laughable on film is still true. It was also encouraging to see how well Second Life has aged since 2007, but it's slightly depressing to see just how horrible MMO documentaries can be at showing the entire picture.

Continue reading Free for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths

MassivelyFree for All: Old Second Life documentary still highlights truths originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2Lbeau-hindmanBlizzardBlizzard-Entertainmentdocumentariesdocumentaryf2pfeaturedfour-cornersfree-for-allfree-to-playftplinden-labphilip-rosedalesandboxsecond-lifeSLvideovideosvirtual-sexvirtual-worldsWorld-of-Warcraftwowyou-only-live-twiceWed, 01 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jagged Alliance Online adds in PvP for testers]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/16/jagged-alliance-online-adds-in-pvp-for-testers/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/16/jagged-alliance-online-adds-in-pvp-for-testers/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/16/jagged-alliance-online-adds-in-pvp-for-testers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

He shot my bike? He shot my bike! Why are you negotiating with the man who just shot my bike?!
If you've been playing in the closed beta of Jagged Alliance Online thus far, the "Online" portion of that name has probably seemed to be something of a misnomer. Beta testers have been exploring the game mechanics from the point of set missions against AI opponents, but that's all about to change. Cliffhanger Productions and gamigo have just unveiled the game's new multiplayers modes, with three different modes and six different maps for players to take up arms against one another.

The three modes consist of Deathmatch (self-explanatory), Bounty Hunter (a race to fight to a target and be the first to kill said target), and Search and Destroy (destroy three targets while protecting your own). Players will be matched via a matchmaker system based upon levels and position in the overall rankings, preventing unfair matches (in theory) and giving good players more substantive rewards for success. If you've got a need for some online turn-based strategy, it might be well worth keeping an eye on these features at they develop.

[Source: gamigo press release]

MassivelyJagged Alliance Online adds in PvP for testers originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacliffhanger-productionsclosed-betaf2pfree-to-playgamigojagged-alliance-onlinejaonew-titlespvppvp-modesstrategytestingturn-based-strategyupcoming-titlesupdatesMon, 16 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World answers community questions about the Illuminati]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/16/the-secret-world-answers-community-questions-about-the-illuminat/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/16/the-secret-world-answers-community-questions-about-the-illuminat/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/16/the-secret-world-answers-community-questions-about-the-illuminat/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

I'd love to tell you what you're shooting at, but you don't have the clearance. I also would love to tell you if bullets hurt it or not.
Do you have questions about the Illuminati? Of course you do -- that's sort of their whole method of operation. But when it comes to The Secret World, some of those questions got answered via yesterday's community question-and-answer session on Facebook. While you'll have to Like the page in order to view all of the answers, you're rewarded for doing so with a breadth of facts about the secretive power-mongers and hoarders of secrets.

Among the first questions was the simple one of how the Illuminati aren't in control of everything in the game world if their operatives have infiltrated the highest level of government; as it happens, with the world exploding and lighting up with the supernatural, the Illuminati are too concerned with working overtime to keep things under wraps to try to take total control. The answers also reinforce the idea that the Illuminati crave power and competence above all, up to the organization's willingness to discard lesser members for valuable information. You can take a peek at the full set of answer on Facebook, but keep in mind that you're going to need to Like the page first.

MassivelyThe Secret World answers community questions about the Illuminati originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backstorycommunityfactionsfuncomilluminatilorenewspreviewsq-and-aquestionsquestions-and-answerssecret-societiessocietiesthe-secret-worldtswupdatesMon, 16 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gods & Heroes crucifies subs and slashes box prices]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/13/gods-and-heroes-crucifies-subs-and-slashes-box-prices/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/13/gods-and-heroes-crucifies-subs-and-slashes-box-prices/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/13/gods-and-heroes-crucifies-subs-and-slashes-box-prices/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Gods & Heroes
Two business models entered Gods & Heroes' colosseum, but only one walked out alive. The crowds cheered their approval, and for a moment their bloodlust was sated. Subscriptions in the game would be no more.

Today, Heatwave Interactive announced that the subscription model wasn't working out for the underperforming Gods & Heroes: Rome Rising (perhaps it did not sell enough fancy helmets) and as of today subs are a thing of the past. Instead, players can enjoy the game without a fee while the team works on creating a true free-to-play plan.

In addition to making gameplay completely free, Heatwave has cleaved the price of the client in twain, reducing the cost to $9.99 for those who have yet to get it. If you've previously purchased the game, whether you were currently subbed to it or not, your account is now flagged for unlimited free play.

MassivelyGods & Heroes crucifies subs and slashes box prices originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelcolosseumdealf2pfree-to-playgods-and-heroesheatwaveheatwave-interactivepromotionsubsubssubscriptiontransitionFri, 13 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World's engine takes center stage]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/09/the-secret-worlds-engine-takes-center-stage/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/09/the-secret-worlds-engine-takes-center-stage/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/09/the-secret-worlds-engine-takes-center-stage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Maybe this will work out okay. Maybe... maybe he just wants a friend.
Unified engines for MMOs have long been a rarity, simply due to the time needed to develop a game and the number of different companies developing separate products. The Secret World manages to buck this trend, using the same core Dreamworld Engine as Funcom's Age of Conan. A recent interview with lead programmer Øystein Eftevaag discusses the way that the engine interacts with the newer game, how the unified engine helps both games, and what special features the game is using in a technical sense.

Eftevaag explains that the Dreamworld Engine benefits chiefly from cross-pollination; improvements made in terms of optimization for Age of Conan can be imported to the engine on The Secret World with minimal extra legwork. The engine also uses a series of dynamic equations to determine what player characters should be able to see, subsequently leaving obscured areas blank to save on processor cycles. It's an interesting look under the hood at the technical side of Funcom's upcoming conspiracy and horror title, even if this particular dream world is tilted toward a nightmare.

MassivelyThe Secret World's engine takes center stage originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaocØystein-Eftevaagcodingcore-enginedreamworld-engineenginefuncomgame-enginegame-featuresgraphical-featuresinterviewinterviewsoystein-eftevaagprogrammingthe-secret-worldtswMon, 09 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB: Reloaded cracks into Steam's most-played games]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/15/apb-reloaded-cracks-into-steams-most-played-games/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/15/apb-reloaded-cracks-into-steams-most-played-games/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/15/apb-reloaded-cracks-into-steams-most-played-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Welp, round about now the Duke and the boys knew they was in a whole heap o' trouble.
Calling all cars -- all three million of them, even. Yes, that's how many players APB: Reloaded now claims, which allows the game to crack into the top ten games being played on Steam and places it second on the list of free games. That's definitely a big impression, one that couples nicely with the game's recent release of a boxed retail copy with several bonus items for first-time or existing players.

According to Rahul Sandil, SVP of marketing and business development for GamersFirst, "[GamersFirst] recognized the potential for APB: Reloaded to be a true breakout hit in the Free2Play category all through beta testing." The game's new Fight Club gameplay mode hasn't hurt the game's popularity either, which is all pretty good for a game that originally set a record for its quick shutdown. The future of APB: Reloaded remains to be seen, but the present is certainly looking bright.

[Source: GamersFirst press release]

MassivelyAPB: Reloaded cracks into Steam's most-played games originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedf2pfight-clubfree-to-playgamersfirstmmo-industrynewsplayer-statsrahul-sandilreloaded-productionsstatisticsThu, 15 Dec 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wargaming.net releases World of Tanks' 7.0 update]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/15/wargaming-net-releases-world-of-tanks-7-0-update/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/15/wargaming-net-releases-world-of-tanks-7-0-update/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/15/wargaming-net-releases-world-of-tanks-7-0-update/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

World of Tanks - 7.0 art
Wargaming.net has announced the official release of its seventh major update for World of Tanks. Crazily enough, it's called the 7.0 update, and it features a bundle of new content designed to make little tanker hearts go pitter-patter.

First up are two new game maps, the Swamp and the Fjords, and there's also a bit of tank customization in the offing thanks to new camouflage and various horn effects. Tank company levels are also being tweaked, as are the game's visual effects (including smoke, shots, and explosions that have been tuned to allow for lower system requirements).

If you've ever wanted to relive your multiplayer battles (and you don't have a copy of Fraps handy), you can now save and view replays at will. Finally, new technology will allow for users "to play on any cluster of the server group with same unified account." Head to the official site for more, and don't forget to fire up your patchers to start the update!

[Source: Wargaming.net press release]

MassivelyWargaming.net releases World of Tanks' 7.0 update originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfjordsfree-to-playmulticluster-technologyreplay-savesswampswargaming.networld-of-tanksworld-war-2world-war-iiwotww2wwiiThu, 15 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[APB: Reloaded unveils a boatload of new screenshots]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/09/apb-reloaded-unveils-a-boatload-of-new-screenshots/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/09/apb-reloaded-unveils-a-boatload-of-new-screenshots/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/09/apb-reloaded-unveils-a-boatload-of-new-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Orange is still usually not among police uniform colors. Sadly.
Are you excited about the release of the APB: Reloaded retail box? Ambivalent about the release but fond of screenshots? Either way, there's a whole lot of new screenshots from the game to coincide with said release, showing off two of the new maps for the game's new Fight Club battle mode and new SWAT gear for Enforcer players who like to take down crime in style. And heavy armor, which seems practical.

There's also a new revelation about the retail pack itself, as it seems that GamersFirst has sweetened the pot slightly. In addition to all of the bonuses listed in our post on the release yesterday, GamersFirst has confirmed that there are extra weapons in the package for those who purchase the pack within the first 30 days. So if you're curious about what you could do on the streets and have the $30 to check it out, now might be the time to do so.

Gallery: APB Reloaded new SWAT gear


Gallery: APB Reloaded: Fight Club map The Beacon


Gallery: APB Reloaded: Fight Club map Baylan Shipping


Gallery: APB Reloaded

MassivelyAPB: Reloaded unveils a boatload of new screenshots originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-points-bulletinapbapb-reloadedbonus-goodsbonus-rewardsf2pfree-to-playg1galleriesgallerygamersfirstretailretail-editionscreenshotscreenshotsspecial-rewardsFri, 09 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST