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[Flameseeker Chronicles: Touring the Snowden Drifts]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/22/flameseeker-chronicles-touring-the-snowden-drifts/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/22/flameseeker-chronicles-touring-the-snowden-drifts/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/22/flameseeker-chronicles-touring-the-snowden-drifts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Guild Wars 2
I pretty much went all Norn for the stress test last week. Alone (like a true Norn), I ventured to the highest, loneliest peaks of Snowden Drifts, swam in the darkest ice caves, and faced the largest metric crap-ton of Sons of Svanir imaginable.

As my Necromancer slid what felt like the nine hundredth Son off of her dagger blades, I took the time to look around soak up the view; there's nothing quite like rallying three times in a fight against a whole passel of renegade Norn to make a girl really appreciate the scenery.

Say what you will (and this being the Internet, many folks do) about whether or not having to zone between maps is, like, the ultimate sign that the game isn't truly "massively multiplayer," but each and every map we've seen so far in Guild Wars 2 is packed to the brim with excitement.

Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: Touring the Snowden Drifts

MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: Touring the Snowden Drifts originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 22 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetfantasyfeaturedflameseeker-chroniclesgalleriesgalleryguild-warsguild-wars-2gwgw1gw2ncsoftnornopinionscreenshotscreenshotssons-of-svanirTue, 22 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wings Over Atreia: Touring Tiamaranta]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/wings-over-atreia-touring-tiamaranta/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/wings-over-atreia-touring-tiamaranta/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/21/wings-over-atreia-touring-tiamaranta/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Wings Over Atreia
If the eeriness of the truce between the Elyos and the Asmodians in Aion's new land of Sarpan wigs you out and makes you long for a good old-fashioned tussle, you can always head on over to Tiamaranta. Although the entire zone is not open for PvP, all four corners and the center are cordoned off for your opponent-bashing pleasure. In fact, Tiamaranta's Eye is often hopping as both sides contest mobs and try to land one of the bosses.

But even if you aren't in the mood for a bloody round of patty-cake, there is plenty of PvE and exploring to be had in this ecologically diverse land with a variety of new mobs to see (and dispatch) and new tasks to accomplish. Not able to make the trip yourself right now? Join Wings over Atreia's guided tour and get a taste of Tiamaranta.

Gallery: Aion: Ascension

Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: Touring Tiamaranta

MassivelyWings Over Atreia: Touring Tiamaranta originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 21 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionascensionf2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playguideguidesHearts-of-TiamatncsoftopinionpvepvpsiegesiegesTiamarantaTiamarantas-Eyetourwings-over-atreiaMon, 21 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Lone wolf]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/one-shots-lone-wolf/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/one-shots-lone-wolf/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/one-shots-lone-wolf/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

One Shots
Long-time Massively follower but first-time One Shots contributor Ilix sent along today's highlighted screenshot of Fallen Earth, which we think is quite timely, given the PvP revamp soon headed to everyone's favorite post-apocalyptic sandbox. He writes in,
Fallen Earth is my top hard-RP MMO. Ilix, after three decades of isolation, attempted to fit in with a player-run town. But he was too rough-edged, too guarded, and still isolated in his mind, and he could not find joy among others. After several days trying to force himself back into what remains of humanity in the blasted terrain of the apocalypse, he admitted to himself that he could never return because he was too quick to anger, and he wandered off back into the desert. Irradiated scorpions haunt the land he wandered into, so he finds rest on the blade of a ruined helicopter's rotor, just out of reach of stingers. This shot defines the dual beauty and harshness of the life he resigns himself to.
Ilix's gorgeous sunset is tucked behind the break along with two other One Shots shots!

Continue reading One Shots: Lone wolf

MassivelyOne Shots: Lone wolf originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-rpgbattlenetblizzardblizzard-entertainmentblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotscash-shopd3diablodiablo-2diablo-3diablo-iidiablo-iiien-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfallen-earthfantasyfefree-to-playg1galleriesgallerygamersfirstgothic-fantasymultiplayerone-shotsonline-multiplayerpics-or-it-didnt-happenpost-apocpost-apocalypticreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsroguelikerpgsandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsterauser-submissionswastelandsSun, 20 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: BatMUD]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/rise-and-shiny-batmud/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/rise-and-shiny-batmud/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/20/rise-and-shiny-batmud/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

BatMUD UI screenshot
Here I am making myself crazy once again. Why? Why do I insist on visiting games that I know will provoke issues both physical and mental? I guess it's because lately I have been fascinated with MUDs, or multi-user-dungeons. They are better described as text-based MMOs or choose-your-own-adventure books written with thousands of other players. It's a fascinating concept, especially when you consider how dissimilar it is to today's modern, easy-to-play offerings. The ancient design of the MUD now feels fresh, so much so that I have decided to dedicate a future article about the possibility of MUDs' viability in today's three-dimensional world.

I have found some good and some very bad over the last several weeks. I've also stumbled across brand-new versions of the migraines that often bother me when I concentrate way, way too hard on PC text. I have to admit that my issues do not seem that common, but it is important to look at a game from all angles, even from the angle of someone who has specific issues. BatMUD has tested my patience over the last few weeks and several hours. It's also shown me some wonderful adventure and sparked my imagination.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: BatMUD

MassivelyRise and Shiny: BatMUD originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 20 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatMUDbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onlivestreammassively-tvmudmulti-user-dungeonrise-and-shinystreamthreshold-rpgtwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 20 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New MOBA SmashMuck Champions fights its way into closed beta this month]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/new-moba-smashmuck-champions-fights-its-way-into-closed-beta-thi/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/new-moba-smashmuck-champions-fights-its-way-into-closed-beta-thi/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/new-moba-smashmuck-champions-fights-its-way-into-closed-beta-thi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- SmashMuck Champions
Watch out, MOBA fans: A new challenger has appeared! Indie game developer Kiz Studios announced in a press release today that its upcoming MOBA title, SmashMuck Champions, is set to enter closed beta this month. Of course, if you're anything like us, you're probably wondering what the heck a SmashMuck Champions is.

According to the game's official site, the title is "a free-to-play action/strategy game featuring online multiplayer combat" in which players "build and train their own SmashMuck teams... to do battle in the toughest sport on Planet Muck." Gameplay-wise, the game seems to be your standard MOBA with a few not-so-standard twists. The addition of persistent champion gear plus interesting new mechanics such as stat-boosting training routines aim to put a new spin on the old formula. But hey, you don't have to take our word for it. The game will be entering closed beta testing on May 27th, so if you're a MOBA fan looking for a new thrill, just head on over to the game's official site and sign up for yourself. Oh, and while you're at it, don't forget to check out the game's latest official trailer after the cut.

[Source: Kiz Studios press release]

Gallery: SmashMuck Champions

Continue reading New MOBA SmashMuck Champions fights its way into closed beta this month

MassivelyNew MOBA SmashMuck Champions fights its way into closed beta this month originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacbtclosed-betaclosed-beta-testclosed-beta-testinggalleriesgalleryindiekiz-studiosmobamultiplayer-online-battle-arenascreenshotscreenshotssmashmucksmashmuck-championstrailertrailersvideovideosMon, 14 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 nets 500K Facebook likes, releases Destiny's Edge art to celebrate]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/guild-wars-2-nets-500k-facebook-likes-releases-destinys-edge-a/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/guild-wars-2-nets-500k-facebook-likes-releases-destinys-edge-a/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/14/guild-wars-2-nets-500k-facebook-likes-releases-destinys-edge-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Guild Wars 2
ArenaNet continues to roll out the rewards for being well-liked this week. Guild Wars 2 crossed the half-million Facebook like barrier, and as a result, the studio released a new epic piece of art for its fans.

The picture is of Destiny's Edge, the adventuring group that features so prominently in Guild Wars 2, facing a rather fearsome foe: The Shatterer. According to the Facebook page, this is actually an in-game screenshot that's been "embellished" by ArenaNet artist Daniel Dociu. As with the other pictures that it has released, ArenaNet has made this image available as a high-resolution version as well.

This art release comes at an auspicious time, as Guild Wars 2 is diving into a seven-hour beta stress test starting today at 2:00 p.m. EDT.

MassivelyGuild Wars 2 nets 500K Facebook likes, releases Destiny's Edge art to celebrate originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 May 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetartbetaconcept-artDaniel-Dociudestinys-edgefacebookfantasyguild-wars-2gw2likesncsoftscreenshotstress-testMon, 14 May 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Woodland critters]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/13/one-shots-woodland-critters/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

One Shots
TERA isn't quite two weeks old, but it's already offering up some spectacular views. Kromic on the Dragonfall server paused while riding on his mount to take this shot. He writes in,
While doing some exploring on my trusty steed in TERA, I found a great view of the capital city Velika.
His screenshot is just after the cut, along with three more images of woodland critters doing their duty to spice up our MMO scenery.

Continue reading One Shots: Woodland critters

MassivelyOne Shots: Woodland critters originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-tale-in-the-desertatitdblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotsegenesisegypten-masseen-masse-entertainmenteq-2eq-iieq2eqiieverquest-2everquest-iif2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryhistoricalmythologyone-shotsreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsriftrift-literift-planes-of-telarasandboxscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmenttaletellingteratriontrion-worldsuser-submissionsSun, 13 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Dark Legends]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/13/rise-and-shiny-dark-legends/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dark Legends screenshot
Dark Legends, the new title from mobile MMO king Spacetime Studios, is already creating a buzz with its liberal use of an energy pool that is sapped as players go through standard gameplay. If this mechanic were packaged any differently and inside a sandbox, it's possible that people would call it "realistic" or "hardcore." Unfortunately, problems set in as soon as players realized that playing the game for hours on end would require some infusion of real-life funds or the ability to kill pretty large chunks of time in non-combat areas.

I would argue that the gameplay does not have to be designed for marathon gaming sessions. It's very possible that the "casual" part of the game's description actually means "casual." I still had issues with the mechanic; don't get me wrong. But if I was bothered by anything it would be Dark Legends' lack of borrowing features from Pocket Legends, Spacetime's flagship mobile MMO, which offers actual persistent areas and other MMO staples.

Of course, it's possible that Spacetime is simply trying something new. Heaven forbid it should attempt a new design!

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Dark Legends

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Dark Legends originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 13 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatMUDbeau-hindmanBioWareccpdark-legendseve-onlinef2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onlivestreammassively-tvmudrise-and-shinyspacetimespacetime-studiosstar-wars-the-old-republicstreamswtortwitchtwitch-tvvideoSun, 13 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online unleashes a torrent of new screenshots, plus new teaser trailer]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/mechwarrior-online-unleashes-a-torrent-of-new-screenshots-plus/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/mechwarrior-online-unleashes-a-torrent-of-new-screenshots-plus/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/mechwarrior-online-unleashes-a-torrent-of-new-screenshots-plus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- MechWarrior Online
Piranha Games has spent the last few weeks inundating us with information on the various gameplay mechanics and customization options that players can expect from its upcoming free-to-play 'bot-battling title, MechWarrior Online, but today the studio has unleashed a deluge of screenshots and a new video that shows what the game's really about: big robots and even bigger explosions. Also, lots of lasers. Pew pew!

The screenshots showcase a variety of 'Mechs -- including the first in-game screens of the Dragon -- going at it with everything from lasers to long-range missiles and everything in between, plus there are quite a few showing off the game's MechLab customization features. The video, meanwhile, gives players yet another look at the game's combat, which, judging by the number of lasers flying around, could double as a (potentially fatal) light show. But enough words; go on and click through the gallery below and feast your eyes on all the giant robot goodness.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

Gallery: MechWarrior Online screenshots

Continue reading MechWarrior Online unleashes a torrent of new screenshots, plus new teaser trailer

MassivelyMechWarrior Online unleashes a torrent of new screenshots, plus new teaser trailer originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwopiranhapiranha-gamessci-fiscreenshotscreenshotstrailertrailersvideovideosFri, 11 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with The Secret World's Templar experience]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-templar-experience/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-templar-experience/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/11/hands-on-with-the-secret-worlds-templar-experience/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret World - Don't mind this hollow earth portal
Believing in The Secret World takes a certain of amount of... faith. And I'm not just talking about Funcom's less-than-stellar reputation when it comes to bug-free MMO launches. No, the very foundation of this particular title rests on a narrative about things unseen, and that cryptic, otherworldly esoterica informed every moment of my time spent in the press beta over the last couple of days.

The basic premise, of course, is that everything is true. Every myth, legend, and spook story that our rational minds scoff at has a place in this particular riff on reality.

The Secret World is also quite heretical when it comes to gameplay. It eschews the tried and true class-based approach for a complex grimoire of a skill system featuring an ability wheel made of hieroglyphs and higher math (or so it first appears). To come right to the point, though, I bought into the game almost immediately.

Gallery: The Secret World - Press Beta (Templars)

Continue reading Hands-on with The Secret World's Templar experience

MassivelyHands-on with The Secret World's Templar experience originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factionfantasyfeaturedfuncomgame-mechanicshorrormythologysci-fantasysecret-worldsecret-world-hands-onsecret-world-previewsecret-world-templarsskill-basedskill-systemtemplar-starter-experiencetemplar-starting-experiencetemplarsthe-secret-worldthe-secret-world-press-betatswtsw-skillstsw-templarsFri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free for All: Zeroing in on my favorite free-to-play mains]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/free-for-all-zeroing-in-on-my-favorite-free-to-play-mains/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/free-for-all-zeroing-in-on-my-favorite-free-to-play-mains/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/free-for-all-zeroing-in-on-my-favorite-free-to-play-mains/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

My Vanguard main
I felt a little nostalgic this week. Heck, at my age, I feel nostalgic every time I smell chimney smoke or hear Christmas music. I suspect it will only grow more common with age. MMOs have been such a huge part of my life for well over a decade now that I feel nostalgic about many of the things that happened during that time, and for many of the characters I have grown -- and lost.

I'm not overly sentimental about it, but it is interesting how we feel about the pixelated versions of ourselves, the ones we control while sitting at a keyboard or while touching a tablet. I don't want to downplay how important gaming can be for many of us, either. Once, years ago, I met a fellow player in a social game called There. She was a wonderful person who had over time lost the ability to walk. She loved the freedom that the avatar gave her. Needless to say, she was very connected to her character.

I made a short list of some of my favorite characters from the years. As I think about it, this list says a lot about me as a gamer and about the types of games I love.

Continue reading Free for All: Zeroing in on my favorite free-to-play mains

MassivelyFree for All: Zeroing in on my favorite free-to-play mains originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beau-hindmanbeau-turkeyChangyouf2pfeaturedffafree-for-allfree-realmsfree-to-playfreemiumglitchjagexmilmoopinionrunescapeRyzomSOESONYSony-Online-Entertainmentspellbornthe-chronicles-of-spellborntheretiny-speckVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvelvet-ropezentiaWed, 09 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online's Update 7 features new high-level skirmish]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/08/lord-of-the-rings-onlines-update-7-features-new-high-level-skir/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/08/lord-of-the-rings-onlines-update-7-features-new-high-level-skir/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/08/lord-of-the-rings-onlines-update-7-features-new-high-level-skir/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Lord of the Rings Online - Update 7 skirmish
Turbine's been pumping out a bunch of screenshots for its Dungeons and Dragons Online expansion lately, so it's only natural that Lord of the Rings Online gets equal treatment. While Update 7 isn't a full-blown expansion, it is a pretty significant content drop that is focused on revamping Moria and Fornost.

Today's gallery features a look at the update's new skirmish, which pits players against a sorceress named Gwyllion at the southern end of the Misty Mountains. The Storm on Methedras instance supports one to 12 players and is designed for levels 70 to 75.

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online Core Gallery

MassivelyLord of the Rings Online's Update 7 features new high-level skirmish originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfantasyfree-to-playgwyllionlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrolotro-skirmishlotro-update-7skirmishskirmishesStorm-on-Methedrasturbineturbine-entertainmentTue, 08 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Looking at the brighter Moria in Lord of the Rings Online]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/07/looking-at-the-brighter-moria-in-lord-of-the-rings-online/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/07/looking-at-the-brighter-moria-in-lord-of-the-rings-online/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/07/looking-at-the-brighter-moria-in-lord-of-the-rings-online/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

LotRO
Does Lord of the Rings Online's Moria benefit from a brighter night-light? The folks over at A Casual Stroll to Mordor went on the test server to investigate just how different the underground zones look now that Turbine's gone back to give the area additional lighting effects.

The fansite examines four different locales on both the live and test server and took screenshots to document the changes. The Great Delving, Silvertine Lodes, The Waterworks, and Durin's Way are the stops on the tour, and out of all of them, Silvertine is the most noticeably brighter.

"While playing, I can say that I do feel like it's easier to see," Goldenstar writes. "I don't know if I would fall into 'it's too bright' category. It still feels like Moria to me."

A revamp to half of Moria is planned with Update 7. Head on over and check out the differences for yourself!

MassivelyLooking at the brighter Moria in Lord of the Rings Online originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 07 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-casual-stroll-to-mordorcompare-and-contrastf2pfantasyfree-to-playlightinglord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriamoriamoria-brighteningmoria-revampmoria-updatepatch-7shades-of-the-pastturbineturbine-entertainmentupdateupdate-7Mon, 07 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Sequelizin']]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/06/one-shots-sequelizin/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/06/one-shots-sequelizin/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/06/one-shots-sequelizin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

One Shots
Massively reader Sharvis, a familiar name throughout our comment section, landed today's One Shots feature with a screenshot from the most recent Guild Wars 2 beta event for pre-purchasers. And it looks like he managed to figure out a way to see the Asura and Sylvari in NPC form, in spite of their absence from the test as playable characters. He writes in,
My Ranger, Leander Delmanos, overlooks the water beyond Lion's Arch in Guild Wars 2. He's accompanied by Snoots, his faithful bear companion, and two NPCs.
We've got more GW2 pics for this special One Shots edition after the cut!

Continue reading One Shots: Sequelizin'

MassivelyOne Shots: Sequelizin' originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anetarenanetbring-back-one-shotsfantasygalleriesgalleryguild-wars-2gw2ncsoftone-shotsreader-screenshotsreader-submissionsscreenshotscreenshotsuser-submissionsSun, 06 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rise and Shiny: Looking back on two years and making changes]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/06/rise-and-shiny-looking-back-at-two-years-and-a-change-of-order/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/06/rise-and-shiny-looking-back-at-two-years-and-a-change-of-order/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/06/rise-and-shiny-looking-back-at-two-years-and-a-change-of-order/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mabinogi screenshot
This column will turn two years old on May 8th, 2012. I'm proud of not only the fact that I have been able keep up the column with a decent amount of content and writing that has slowly gotten better over that time but also the fact that I have introduced the readers of Massively to so many games that they wouldn't otherwise have known about. Recently, I have increased my efforts by streaming odd and indie games as well as writing about the relatively new world of mobile MMOs.

This might all seem like I am attempting to build some sort of indie hipster street cred, but the totally honest truth is that nothing thrills me more than exposing a new game to the world or giving an older game some much-needed sunlight. If someone posts, "This game is still around?" in the comments section, I call that a win.

From now on, I am going to tweak how I do things for Rise and Shiny in order to raise the quality of coverage. Let me explain how as well as give you a few figures to illustrate just how many titles I have covered.

Continue reading Rise and Shiny: Looking back on two years and making changes

MassivelyRise and Shiny: Looking back on two years and making changes originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 06 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playhands-onLiveStreammabinogimassively-tvmassivelytvmilmomvtvrise-and-shinystreamstreamingtwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvtwo-year-anniversaryvideozentiaSun, 06 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DDO's Menace of the Underdark expansion beta starts May 10th]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/ddos-menace-of-the-underdark-expansion-beta-starts-may-10th/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/ddos-menace-of-the-underdark-expansion-beta-starts-may-10th/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/ddos-menace-of-the-underdark-expansion-beta-starts-may-10th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Dungeons and Dragons Online - when dark elves attack
Last week we showed you some screenshots of Eveningstar, a new town in Dungeons and Dragons Online's upcoming Menace of the Underdark expansion. Today Turbine has released four additional shots taken in and around the small settlement that greets players as they transition from Eberron to the Forgotten Realms.

Turbine has also told us that the expansion closed beta will kick off on May 10th. The testing period will be exclusive to pre-order purchasers of MotU, so head to the official DDO site to learn more!

[Source: Turbine press release]

Gallery: Dungeons and Dragons Online: Menace of the Underdark

MassivelyDDO's Menace of the Underdark expansion beta starts May 10th originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddoddo-expansionddo-gallerydnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeveningstarf2pfantasyfree-to-playgallerymenace-of-the-underdarkscreenshotsturbineturbine-entertainmentThu, 03 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online reveals the first in-game screens of the Catapult]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/mechwarrior-online-reveals-the-first-in-game-screens-of-the-cata/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/mechwarrior-online-reveals-the-first-in-game-screens-of-the-cata/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/03/mechwarrior-online-reveals-the-first-in-game-screens-of-the-cata/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

And then you roll a critical hit to the head. Boom.
Battles in MechWarrior Online are not about subtlety; they are about unloading huge amounts of firepower on enemy machines as fast as possible. That is the sole purpose of the Catapult, a 'Mech loaded with long-range missiles to pummel enemy units into submission. But the Catapult has another distinction -- it's the first 'Mech to receive screenshot treatment, showing the heavy support 'Mech off in all its jumping, missile-heavy goodness.

Fans familiar with previous games in the MechWarrior franchise or the BattleTech board game will know the Catapult quite well. It's just barely into the heavier weight class. sporting jump jets and medium lasers to help it move out of dangerous engagements or disable lighter units. And, of course, there are its twin missile banks, effective as a direct-fire weapon or for use as artillery with an assisting spotter unit. The game's screenshots also show off the classic variant replacing the missile banks with PPCs, high-powered energy cannons designed to fry targets at extreme range.

[Source: Piranha Games press release]

Gallery: MechWarrior Online screenshots

MassivelyMechWarrior Online reveals the first in-game screens of the Catapult originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 03 May 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battletechf2pfirst-screenshotsfree-to-playgalleriesgallerymechmechsmechwarriormechwarrior-mmomechwarrior-onlinemwonewspiranhapiranha-gamespreviewsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotsThu, 03 May 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rusty Hearts releases new Leila Vergerius character]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/01/rusty-hearts-releases-new-leila-vergerius-character/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/01/rusty-hearts-releases-new-leila-vergerius-character/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/01/rusty-hearts-releases-new-leila-vergerius-character/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Rusty Hearts - Leila
If you haven't tried Rusty Hearts yet, this week is as good a time as any since Stairway Games, WindySoft, and Perfect World Entertainment are adding a brand-new playable character to the hack-and-slash free-to-play title.

Leila Vergerius is the younger sibling of Roselle Vergerius, and she's been fighting to escape her older sister's protective shadow for some time. Perfect World tells us that Leila doesn't actually need the protection since she's more than capable of unleashing a dark magic-flavored can of whoop-ass on par with those of big sis.

Leila is also adept with a sword and an axe, both of which are made even more deadly by her propensity for speed, agility, and leap-and-flip aerial attacks. Check her out in the gallery below, and head to the official Rusty Hearts website for more game info. We've also got an interview with Rusty Hearts producer Mark Hill on today's podcast!

[Source: Perfect World press release]

Gallery: Rusty Hearts

MassivelyRusty Hearts releases new Leila Vergerius character originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 May 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-mmoanimef2pfantasyfeaturedfree-to-playgalleriesgalleryleilaleila-vergeriusmark-hillperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpwerusty-heartsrusty-hearts-new-characterrusty-hearts-new-skinscreenshotscreenshotsstairway-gameswindysoftTue, 01 May 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[One Shots: Warped]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/29/one-shots-warped/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/29/one-shots-warped/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/29/one-shots-warped/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

One Shots
Massively reader Johanis delivered today's One Shots image, which features one of TERA's pegasi in flight. He tells us,
Here is a shot of Honeynut, my TERA Archer, who was exploring during last weekend's open beta. While flying from one destination to another, she suddenly warped through one of many travel gates, and it was gorgeous. She emerged into a beautiful land just waiting to be explored.
Enjoy Johanis' entry alongside a few others past the break!

Continue reading One Shots: Warped

MassivelyOne Shots: Warped originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 29 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareblueholebluehole-studiosbring-back-one-shotseaelectronic-artsen-masseen-masse-entertainmentf2pfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgallerylucasartsone-shotsreader-screenshotsreader-submissionssandboxsci-fiscreenshotscreenshotssoesonysony-online-entertainmentstar-warsstar-wars-the-old-republicsubsubscription-feeswtortelonterathe-old-republictoruser-submissionsvanguardvanguard-saga-of-heroesvgSun, 29 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Iris Online opens the Lost Temple of Atlantis]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/26/iris-online-opens-the-lost-temple-of-atlantis/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/26/iris-online-opens-the-lost-temple-of-atlantis/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/26/iris-online-opens-the-lost-temple-of-atlantis/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Of course, it's not really all that lost any longer when you get right down to it...
Iris Online players are in for a treat today because it's patch day. And not just the small sort of patch with a bunch of bugfixes, either -- this is the big kind, the kind that opens up new areas and expands the level cap. In fact, it's exactly that kind, as today's update opens four new zones and the Lost Temple of Atlantis for player exploration. The temple is meant as the most challenging dungeon in the game and contains a variety of treasures for players braving its depths.

Beyond the temple, the new zones give players new chances to strike back and liberate the land from the Sahar, complete with new quests to enjoy. Those new quests will also help as players head for the new level cap of 75, but if that alone isn't enough, the development team is doubling all EXP and SXP rates until April 29th. Players can also earn special treasure boxes for a limited time, a little extra boost for enjoying the game's new content.

[Source: gPotato press release]

Gallery: Iris Online Screenshots

MassivelyIris Online opens the Lost Temple of Atlantis originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeonsf2pfantasyfree-to-playgala-netgalleriesgallerygpotatogypsyirisiris-onlinelevel-caplevelslost-temple-of-atlantisnew-dungeonsnew-questsnew-zonespatchpatchesquestsscreenshotscreenshotstarotupdateszonesThu, 26 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST