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[Wizard101 fansite owner hired to be Pirate101's community manager]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/wizard101-fansite-owner-hired-to-be-pirate101s-community-manage/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/wizard101-fansite-owner-hired-to-be-pirate101s-community-manage/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/09/wizard101-fansite-owner-hired-to-be-pirate101s-community-manage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Friendly Necromancer logo
Tom Purdue, admired owner and operator of The Friendly Necromancer blog and Wizard101 fansite, has announced today that he will be KingsIsle Entertainment's new community manager for the upcoming Pirate101 MMO.

As that transition from fan to employee is always a fascinating transformation, we recognize that it's not an easy decision. Massively itself has raised a handful of MMO community managers, so this news is particularly of interest to us. For that reason, we tracked Tom down and asked him some questions about his new role at KingsIsle. Follow along below for the complete interview.

Continue reading Wizard101 fansite owner hired to be Pirate101's community manager

MassivelyWizard101 fansite owner hired to be Pirate101's community manager originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 09 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>community-managerdream-come-truef2pfamilyfansitefantasyfree-to-playinterviewinterviewskid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentpirate101the-friendly-necromancertom-purduetransitionwizard101Wed, 09 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 invites players into the mythical realm of Avalon]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/wizard101-invites-players-into-the-mythical-realm-of-avalon/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/wizard101-invites-players-into-the-mythical-realm-of-avalon/http://www.massively.com/2012/05/02/wizard101-invites-players-into-the-mythical-realm-of-avalon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wiz101 Avalon
Wizard101 players have been all over, from the lush jungles of Zafaria to the pyramids of Krokotopia, but as of today there's a whole new land for them to explore: the mystical land of Avalon. Avalon, as the name implies, is a land based in Arthurian legend, and it also happens to be the former home of Ravenwood's headmaster, Merle Ambrose.

But all is not well in the usually idyllic Avalon. The nefarious Umbra Queen Morganthe and her minions are causing trouble, and it's up to the players to find and recover the legendary blade of King Artorius, the Sword of Kings, and put a stop to Morganthe's mayhem. Players who are level 70 or above and who have completed the quest Through Glass, Darkly can find their way to Avalon by speaking to Merle Ambrose, who will send them on a quest to the new zone. For the full details on the new update, magick your way on over to the Wizard101 official site.

MassivelyWizard101 invites players into the mythical realm of Avalon originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 02 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arthurianavalonf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentpatchpatchessword-of-kingsupdateupdateswizard101zonezonesWed, 02 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 creator announces new game: Pirate101]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/25/wizard101-creator-announces-new-game-pirate101/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/25/wizard101-creator-announces-new-game-pirate101/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/25/wizard101-creator-announces-new-game-pirate101/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Image
Ahoy, maties! Put down your wands and grab the nearest parrot, for you're about to head out onto the high seas with KingsIsle! The makers of the hit Wizard101 have announced their next project: the swashbuckling world of Pirate101.

Using a similar business model, full voice-over, same universe and same art style as Wizard101, KingsIsle is fashioning a unique pirate game with its second MMO. Players get to choose one of five classes for their piratey career: Buccaneer, Witchdoctor, Privateer, Swashbuckler, or Musketeer. No matter what they pick, players will captain their own flying (yes, flying) ships and take off for adventure in fantastic environments such as skyways, lost cities of gold, and ancient ruins. There will also be companions to pick up along the way for use in combat, and players can naturally join forces to complete quests and battle the oppressing force threatening the world.

Creative Director Todd Coleman thinks that this free-to-play title stretches the studio's imagination and reach. "We've created a world of treacherous pirates, faithful companions, tactical battles and gorgeous environments," he says. "Pirate101 fuses the key lessons we've learned from Wizard101 with entirely new design, setting and gameplay mechanics. We've succeeded in creating a game that is very different from Wizard101, but remains comfortable and familiar."

Pirate101 is currently in alpha and will be released in 2012. Watch for our upcoming interview with KingsIsle coming soon!

Gallery: Pirate101


[Source: KingsIsle Entertainment press release]

MassivelyWizard101 creator announces new game: Pirate101 originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Buccaneerf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playgalleriesgallerykid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentMusketeerpiratepirate101piratesPrivateerscreenshotscreenshotsSwashbucklerTodd-ColemanWitchdoctorwizard101Wed, 25 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a Wizard101 rare mount package from Massively!]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/13/win-a-wizard101-rare-mount-package-from-massively/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/13/win-a-wizard101-rare-mount-package-from-massively/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/13/win-a-wizard101-rare-mount-package-from-massively/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Wizard101 Bloodraven
If you haven't had a chance to make your purchase in Wizard101's Mount-a-Palooza sale going on right now, fear not! We're giving you a chance to get the five rarest mounts in the game in one set, all for free!

KingsIsle Entertainment was kind enough to send us 25 codes for these rare mount sets, which we'll be giving away through our Twitter page, our Facebook page, and a random drawing.

Each rare mount set contains: Swift Gryphon, Bone Dragon, Great Hornocerous (2 person), Nightmare, and Blood Raven (2-person). For a chance at your own set, simply send an email to shawn@massively.com with the subject line "Gimme My Wizard101 Mount Code!" before Sunday, April 15th, at 8 p.m. EDT. On Monday, we'll present 15 random winners their very own code. Be sure to copy and paste those exact words into the subject line of your email, or it won't get filtered properly. The remaining 10 codes will be randomly released on our Twitter and/or Facebook pages throughout this entire weekend, so keep your eyes open!

Also be sure to check past the cut below for images of three of the mounts in the package.

Continue reading Win a Wizard101 rare mount package from Massively!

MassivelyWin a Wizard101 rare mount package from Massively! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontestsf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playgiveawaygiveawayskid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmountsrare-mountswizard101Fri, 13 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 throws massive mount sale]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/12/wizard101-throws-massive-mount-sale/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/12/wizard101-throws-massive-mount-sale/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/12/wizard101-throws-massive-mount-sale/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wizard101
It's a good time to be in the market for a new mode of transportation, especially if you're a cash-strapped wizard or witch in Wizard101. The annual Mount-a-Palooza is back, and KingsIsle Entertainment is magically shrinking costs and teleporting in rare inventory to make as many customers as happy as possible.

From now through Sunday, April 22nd, players can snag any permanent mount in the in-game store at a whopping 60% off the list price. Some of the mounts in the store will be only available during this brief window, as KingsIsle is retiring four mounts at the end of the sale while bringing back three other previous retirees for impulse shoppers to peruse.

And if you like Wizard101 mounts, you might want to keep an eye on Massively tomorrow. Our crystal ball says that your future may look bright if you do!

MassivelyWizard101 throws massive mount sale originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealdiscountf2pfree-to-playkingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmountmount-a-poloozamountssalewizard101Thu, 12 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[KingsIsle releases more Wizard101 expansion details]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/10/kingsisle-releases-more-wizard101-expansion-details/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/10/kingsisle-releases-more-wizard101-expansion-details/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/10/kingsisle-releases-more-wizard101-expansion-details/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Wizard101 - giant owl
Last night we brought you news of Wizard101's new Avalon expansion. Today we've got a few more details (as well as a new screenshot gallery) to illuminate what looks to be one of the game's more interesting content drops.

As you might expect, Avalon is filled with knights, castles, goblins, dragons, and other assorted medieval tropes. The expansion also "plays heavily on the Arthurian and Celtic mythologies," according to KingsIsle. Additionally, Avalon will allow players to uncover the motivations of Wizard101's main characters (including Merle Ambrose and Morganthe).

The expansion boasts six new zones, 15 new areas, a level cap increase (80), 28 new spells, new gear, pets, and mounts, and the ability to achieve rank 15 in gardening.

[Source: KingsIsle press release]

Gallery: Wizard101

MassivelyKingsIsle releases more Wizard101 expansion details originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avalonavalon-expansionf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playgallerykid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentscreenshotwizard101wizard101-expansionTue, 10 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 prepares to send players to Avalon]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/04/09/wizard101-prepares-to-send-players-to-avalon/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/09/wizard101-prepares-to-send-players-to-avalon/http://www.massively.com/2012/04/09/wizard101-prepares-to-send-players-to-avalon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Yeah, yeah, what's behind me, I know. Very funny.
Wizard101 always sends its players to fantastic new places with each expansion. Obviously the bar is set pretty high when the core game already features a magical setting, but each new zone seems to aim at a very different location. The upcoming new expansion Avalon is no exception; it's sending players into a realm filled with fallen knights, warrior queens, and other elements inspired by Arthurian and Celtic myths. It also gives players a chance to explore the pasts of several important lore characters, such as the villainous Morganthe.

But lore alone doesn't make for a fun expansion. Avalon also offers players four new utility spells per school, new pets and mounts, and six new zones to explore as characters head to the new level cap of 80. There are also new gardening levels and new gardening spells, certain to bring a smile to the face of every burgeoning virtual botanist. So if you feel like you've seen all there is to see in Wizard101, don't worry -- that'll change soon enough.

[Source: KingsIsle press release]

MassivelyWizard101 prepares to send players to Avalon originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avalonexpansionf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentnewspatchpatchesupdatewizard101wizard101-avalonMon, 09 Apr 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 creators to present the Digital Kids Conference opening keynote]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/15/wizard101-creators-to-present-the-digital-kids-conference-openin/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/15/wizard101-creators-to-present-the-digital-kids-conference-openin/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/15/wizard101-creators-to-present-the-digital-kids-conference-openin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wizard101 creators Todd Coleman and Josef Hall will be opening the upcoming sixth annual Digital Kids Conference with a keynote address about their experience with engaging the youth market. The KingsIsle Entertainment duo will talk about their transition from hardcore gaming to creating a critically and commercially successful family-friendly game and (one can hope) the secrets of their genius. Wizard101 launched back in 2008 and has since grown in popularity to the tune of 25 million players spread throughout the Western hemisphere (with plans for near-future expansion into China). It is that recognized success that's made Coleman and Hall ideal candidates for the keynote, with the hopes that they'll spur others to greater heights.

The conference (formerly the Engage! Conference and Expo) will feature speakers from as disparate venues as the NFL, Cartoon Network, and Ubisoft, all focusing on interactive content to connect with kids in the digital world. The Digital Kids Conference covers the use of mobile apps, social games, social media, and virtual worlds to better understand creating and promoting products and content for a younger audience.

[Source: KingsIsle press release]

MassivelyWizard101 creators to present the Digital Kids Conference opening keynote originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conferencedigital-kids-conferencedkcexpof2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playjosef-hallkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmenttodd-colemanwizard101Thu, 15 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/14/gaikai-delivering-instant-mmos-to-your-browser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Gaikai
Imagine that you're reading up on an MMO on a site such as Massively (far-fetched, but stay with us on this). The words intrigue you and you think it might be worth checking out. You make a mental note to do so in the future -- to head over to the game's site, see if there's a trial, download it, set up an account, and give it a whirl -- but time gets away from you and none of that actually happens.

Now imagine that right after you read that article there was a single button or link. Clicking on it, a Java window opens up on top of your screen and tells you that you're now playing a trial of the game. There's no wait, no download, no lengthy form to fill out -- just click and play, right away. You go from interested to inside the game within mere seconds, your computer specs (mostly) aren't an issue, and your curiosity is immediately sated.

This isn't a far-fetched dream but the here-and-now reality. This is cloud-streaming MMOs brought to you by Gaikai. And it just might be the future of MMOs as we know it.

Continue reading Gaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser

MassivelyGaikai: Delivering instant MMOs to your browser originally appeared on Massively on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2moonsacclaimactivisionage-of-conanage-of-conan-unchainedaocaoc-unchainedbest-buyblizzardblizzard-entertainmentbrowser-mmochronicles-of-spellborncloudcloud-streamingconandave-perryddodnddungeons-and-dragonsdungeons-and-dragons-onlineeaea-originearthworm-jimf2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playfuncomgaikaigaikai-inchyboriaipadkid-friendlykids-mmokingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrostreaming-mmothe-darknessturbineturbine-entertainmentunchainedwalmartwarcraftwbwizard101world-of-warcraftwowyoutubeWed, 14 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Previously On MVTV: The week of February 25th]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/03/04/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-february-25th/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/04/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-february-25th/http://www.massively.com/2012/03/04/previously-on-mvtv-the-week-of-february-25th/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Previously On logo
So you missed out on some of Massively's wonderful livestreams, huh? You had to go out and hang out with actual human beings and missed some of the most exciting live game playing you could have imagined? Shame. Shame on you. Don't worry, though; I've taken the time to collect some of the very best moments from the previous week's shows and combine them into one easy, one-stop-shop for your viewing pleasure.

Really, it's no trouble. Do be a dear and bookmark our MassivelyTV Guide for future reference!

So what do we have this week? Some pretty awesome stuff, actually. Richie jumps back into some Guild Wars, Mike takes an explosive swing at EVE Online once again and then hops into RIFT, Psykopig slowly finds himself falling in love with Wizard101 despite his attempts at resistance, Karen and the team from Allods Online embark on a tour of high-level content and Astral ships, I get invited to a real wedding inside Luvinia Online, and Tboo does her usual best by shooting people in the face in APB: Reloaded.

Continue reading Previously On MVTV: The week of February 25th

MassivelyPreviously On MVTV: The week of February 25th originally appeared on Massively on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allods-onlineanetapb-reloadedArena-Netbeau-hindmanccpeve-onlineeventsfeaturedgpotatoguild-warsLiveStreamlivestreamingluvinia-onlinemassively-streamteammassively-tvmassivelytvmv-tvmvtvoutsparkpreviously-on-mv-tvriftround-uproundupstreamstreamersstreamingstreamteamtriontwitchtwitch-tvtwitchtvvideovideosSun, 04 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Perfect Ten: Best MMO theme songs (part one)]]>http://www.massively.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/http://www.massively.com/2012/01/12/the-perfect-ten-best-mmo-theme-songs-part-one/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Continue reading Some Assembly Required: A virtual world roundup

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaionaion-gameAnarchy-Onlineaocccpccp-eveccp-gameschampions-onlinecharacter-creationcharacter-customizationcity-of-heroescocohcraft-of-godscraft-of-the-godscraftingcrypticcryptic-champions-onlinecryptic-cocryptic-star-trekcryptic-studiosdaocdark-age-of-camelotdarkfalleden-eternaleq-1eq-2eq-ieq-iieveeve-ccpeve-mmorpgeve-onlineever-quest-1ever-quest-2ever-quest-iever-quest-iieverquest-1everquest-2everquest-ieverquest-iifallen-earthfeaturedfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-11final-fantasy-xiflyffFuncomglitchguild-housinghousingking-of-kings-3liden-labs-second-lifelinden-labslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroluna-onlinemabinogimission-architectnc-softnc-soft-aionncsoftncsoft-aionnotorious-gamesparagonparagon-cohparagon-studioesplanetsideplayer-generated-contentplayer-generated-missionsplayer-housingplayer-run-economyrunescapeRyzomsecond-lifesecond-life-linden-labsslsl-liden-labssoe-eq-1soe-eq-2soe-eq-isoe-eq-iisome-assembly-requiredsony-eq-1sony-eq-2sony-eq-isony-eq-iisquare-enixst-onlinestar-trek-mmostar-trek-onlinestotrek-onlineturbineTurbine-EntertainmentUltima-OnlineUOvanguardVanguard-Saga-of-Heroesvirtual-worldwar-of-the-immortalswizard-101xbox-360XsyonFri, 06 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[[Updated] On the twelfth day of giveaways, KingsIsle gave to me...]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/24/on-the-twelfth-day-of-giveaways-kingsisle-gave-to-me/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/24/on-the-twelfth-day-of-giveaways-kingsisle-gave-to-me/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/24/on-the-twelfth-day-of-giveaways-kingsisle-gave-to-me/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wizard101 Super Bundle
[UPDATE: All winners have been selected and contacted. Thanks to everyone who entered!]

On the twelfth day of giveaways, KingsIsle gave to me... twelve super bundles!
On the eleventh day of giveaways, Funcom gave to me... eleven prize packages!
On the tenth day of giveaways, PerfectWorld gave to me... ten grab bag items!
On the ninth day of giveaways, GamersFirst gave to me... nine SWG mementos!
On the eighth day of giveaways, Enjin gave to me... eight guild-wide gifts!
On the seventh day of giveaways, NCsoft gave to me... seven years of memories!
On the sixth day of giveaways, GamersFirst gave to me... six retail packs!
On the fifth day of giveaways, Trion gave to me... five subscription codes!
On the fourth day of giveaways, Nexon gave to me... four pet items!
On the third day of giveaways, Wargaming.net gave to me... three premium years!
On the second day of giveaways, BioWare gave to me... two warring factions!
On the first day of giveaways, Turbine gave to me... a lifetime VIP!

KingsIsle Entertainment is finishing off Massively's 12 Days of Giveaways with a bang by giving away 12 Super Bundles for Wizard101. What is a Super Bundle, you ask? It's a huge package of Wizard101 goodies, including everything listed in the image above plus 5,000 crowns to spend on whatever your heart desires.

Ready to enter to win one of these? Just leave a comment here telling us why you love Wizard101 and what you'd do with your Super Bundle. Enter by the deadline of tomorrow, December 25th, at 8:00 p.m. EST, and don't forget to check the contest rules below for eligibility. Best of luck!

Finally, please join us here at Massively in giving a warm thank-you to every developer and publisher who pitched in to make the 12 Days of Giveaways a huge success. Happy holidays!

CONTEST FAQ OFFICIAL RULES

Massively[Updated] On the twelfth day of giveaways, KingsIsle gave to me... originally appeared on Massively on Sat, 24 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-giveaways-2011contestcontestsf2pfree-to-playgiveawaygiveawayskingsislekingsisle-entertainmentsuper-bundlew101wizard-101wizard101wizard101-super-bundleSat, 24 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hanging with my Gnomies: Wizard101's Zafaria trailer hits below the belt]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/12/01/hanging-with-my-gnomies-wizard101s-zafaria-trailer-hits-below/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/01/hanging-with-my-gnomies-wizard101s-zafaria-trailer-hits-below/http://www.massively.com/2011/12/01/hanging-with-my-gnomies-wizard101s-zafaria-trailer-hits-below/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Wizard101
Gnomes are absolutely awesome. This can never be denied, disproven, or displaced. Just because you're a tiny garden decoration doesn't mean that you aren't fearsome in large numbers (or when hit by a growth spell). So it's good to see that Wizard101 is unafraid to put its Gnomes up front on the center stage.

While Wizard101's Zafaria expansion came out a couple weeks ago, KingsIsle wants to make sure that everyone is aware of the new high-level area and all of its fun features. Hence, an official Zafaria trailer that shows off the expansion's lands, monsters, landmarks, and Gnome attack spells.

It's a mash-up of tourism, humor, and hype in one quick video application, and it's yours for the low, low price of hitting the "Continue Reading" button! Check it out. We mean it. We'd hate to have to unleash the Massively Gnome Punishment Squad on your shins.

Continue reading Hanging with my Gnomies: Wizard101's Zafaria trailer hits below the belt

MassivelyHanging with my Gnomies: Wizard101's Zafaria trailer hits below the belt originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gnomegnomesgnomieskingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmassively-gnome-punishment-squadtrailervideowizard101zafariaThu, 01 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[KingsIsle launches new Wizard101 Zafaria content]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/18/kingsisle-launches-new-wizard101-zafaria-content/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/18/kingsisle-launches-new-wizard101-zafaria-content/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/18/kingsisle-launches-new-wizard101-zafaria-content/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Wizard101 - centaur dude fighting
It's update time in the world of Wizard101, and KingsIsle has released a mammoth set of patch notes to go along with its new Zafaria content.

What's Zafaria? It's a whole new slice of the game world comprised of six unique areas that can be accessed with a Wizard101 membership or via individual purchases. The game's level cap has also been raised (to 70), and the requisite new gear is present as well. New spells can also be found in the update, as can new henchmen and improved character stats.

There's a bunch more for you to read about (including info on a new music player!), so head to the official Wizard101 website for all the details.

MassivelyKingsIsle launches new Wizard101 Zafaria content originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfamilyfantasyfree-to-playgame-mechanicshenchmenkidskingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlevel-cap-increasewiz101wizard101zafariaFri, 18 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 heading to Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/08/wizard101-heading-to-taiwan-hong-kong-and-macau/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/08/wizard101-heading-to-taiwan-hong-kong-and-macau/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/08/wizard101-heading-to-taiwan-hong-kong-and-macau/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Wizard101 banner
KingsIsle Entertainment announced today that its popular free-to-play MMO, Wizard101, is expanding to the exotic east. Thanks to an agreement with Taiwan Taomee Technology, the game will be launching in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau in 2012. This announcement comes shortly after the company's deal with Taomee Holdings Limited to launch the game in China next year. To get in on the Wizard101 fun yourself, head on over to the game's official site.

MassivelyWizard101 heading to Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playhong-kongkingsislekingsisle-entertainmentmacautaiwanwiz101WIZARD101Tue, 08 Nov 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMObility: Ten terrific titles for this nifty new netbook]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/04/mmobility-ten-terrific-titles-for-this-nifty-new-netbook/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/04/mmobility-ten-terrific-titles-for-this-nifty-new-netbook/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/04/mmobility-ten-terrific-titles-for-this-nifty-new-netbook/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

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

Click past the cut to see the list!

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-mystical-landbeau-hindmanf2pfeaturedfree-to-playftpglitchgolden-agegunshineillyriadinspiron-duomabinoginadirimnetbooknetbook-gamesnetbook-mmosNexonnexon-americapuppet-guardianpuzzle-piratestechnologyUltima-Onlinewizard101Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 introduces Zafaria and Grub Guardian minigame]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/11/01/wizard101-introduces-zafaria-and-grub-guardian-minigame/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/01/wizard101-introduces-zafaria-and-grub-guardian-minigame/http://www.massively.com/2011/11/01/wizard101-introduces-zafaria-and-grub-guardian-minigame/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Screenshot -- Wizard101
KingsIsle Entertainment has announced the latest content update coming to its popular MMO title, Wizard101. The new patch, which is coming later this month, introduces the African-themed world of Zafaria, which features many major themes related to the return of the Umbra Queen, Morganthe. The update will increase the level cap from 60 to 70 and will introduce new gear, pets, mounts, and spells. In addition, players will have new areas to explore, such as the open grasslands of the Savannah and the ruins of the Drum Jungle.

A new minigame feature known as Grub Guardian will be launching in tandem with the new update. Grub Guardian is a tower-defense-style game which, will be available for web browsers and eventually, Android and iOS mobile devices. The game will allow players to link to their Wizard101 accounts, which will enable them to play the game using their in-game pets. As players progress in Grub Guardian, their pets will reap rewards of experience and increased attributes. KingsIsle hopes this will allow players to make progress within the game even if they are away from their computers or simply short on time. For more information about the coming updates, and to join the fun for yourself, head on over to Wizard101's official site.

[Source: KingsIsle Entertainment press release]

Continue reading Wizard101 introduces Zafaria and Grub Guardian minigame

MassivelyWizard101 introduces Zafaria and Grub Guardian minigame originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playgrub-guardiankingsislekingsisle-entertainmentlevel-caplevel-cap-increaseminigamemobilemorganthepatchupdatewizard101zafariaTue, 01 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wizard101 offers reimbursement for Sunday downtime]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/10/24/wizard101-offers-reimbursement-for-sunday-downtime/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/24/wizard101-offers-reimbursement-for-sunday-downtime/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/24/wizard101-offers-reimbursement-for-sunday-downtime/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Screenshot -- Wizard101
Wizard101 players may have noticed some unplanned downtime in their gameplay Sunday afternoon. J. Todd Coleman, aka Headmaster Ambrose, stopped by the forums today to clarify the issue. The technical problem that caused the downtime has since been fixed, but Coleman has said that some players may have experienced a loss of items acquired just prior to the downtime.

But don't fret, Wizard101 players. The team keeps detailed logs of all acquired items, and any items acquired (or crowns spent) prior to the downtime will be reimbursed, even if the item was not actually lost. The team understands that erring on the side of caution such as this will result in some players receiving double the loot, but Coleman states that this outcome is "far preferable to running the risk of some players not recovering lost items. All items should be successfully reimbursed within the next 24 to 48 hours. For the full details on the problem and subsequent recovery, head on over to the game's official forums.

MassivelyWizard101 offers reimbursement for Sunday downtime originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downtimef2pfree-to-playj-todd-colemankingsislekingsisle-entertainmentreimbursementunplanned-downtimewiz101wizard101Mon, 24 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaderboard: Free Realms' vs. Wizard101's unicorns]]>http://www.massively.com/2011/10/24/leaderboard-free-realms-vs-wizard101s-unicorns/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/24/leaderboard-free-realms-vs-wizard101s-unicorns/http://www.massively.com/2011/10/24/leaderboard-free-realms-vs-wizard101s-unicorns/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Leaderboard
In honor of the recently revived MMO Family column here on Massively, I thought that this week we'd extend the brutal beatings, clobberings, and verbal beratings to family-friendly MMOs. In many ways, Free Realms and Wizard101 are almost like siblings with so many things in common, and this extends to the use of sickeningly cute unicorn pets.

While I personally stopped paying attention to unicorns when Trapper Keepers went out of style, apparently they're still a "thing," especially with the younger market. You young 'uns, always keeping the unicorn union in business! Why don't you just let us harvest them for their magical horns which can be ground up and sprinkled on our Starbucks lattes?

Ahem. Sorry. In any event, one such instance of ultra-cuteness is enough; two is completely unnecessary and unhealthy for the well-being of our universe. So today you must decide which game's unicorns will rule as lord supreme over the hearts of tweens everywhere, and which will be sold to the salt mines to haul loads while crying rainbow tears. Vote! And let it forever be on your conscience!

[The unicorn on the left is from Wizard101; the one on the right is from Free Realms.]

Continue reading Leaderboard: Free Realms' vs. Wizard101's unicorns

MassivelyLeaderboard: Free Realms' vs. Wizard101's unicorns originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>familyfree-realmskidsleaderboardmmo-familyopinionpetpetspollrainbow-tearssalt-minesstarbuckstrapper-keeperstweensunicornunicornswizard101Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST