Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Treehouse Avatar Technologies sues Turbine over a patent granted in May]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/treehouse-avatar-technologies-sues-turbine-over-a-patent-granted/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/treehouse-avatar-technologies-sues-turbine-over-a-patent-granted/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/treehouse-avatar-technologies-sues-turbine-over-a-patent-granted/#comments Treehouse sues Turbine over a 2012 patentA company named Treehouse Avatar Technologies was granted United States Patent No. 8,180,858 in May of this year, which covers a "Method And System For Presenting Data Over A Network Based On Network User Choices And Collecting Real-Time Data Related To Said Choices," according to the patent's title. In other words, it covers a method of taking and tracking user choices over a network, a vague description to say the least.

Nevertheless, Treehouse has decided to use the patent to take on Lord of the Rings Online and Dungeons and Dragons Online creator Turbine, Inc., and has sued the game maker for infringement on a number of counts, including character attributes like Strength and Charisma. Specifically, Treehouse mentions "the feature of tallying the number of times the selected character attribute(s) have been selected by users of the game."

Too vague? That's for the courts to decide, apparently. Treehouse is aiming for a full injunction against Turbine from using the system described by the patent, and for "adequate compensation" in damages. The full complaint is available to read online.

JoystiqTreehouse Avatar Technologies sues Turbine over a patent granted in May originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infringementLord-of-the-Rings-OnlinelotropatentpcturbineFri, 12 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine brings Lost Legends of Eriador content update to Lord of the Rings Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/turbine-brings-lost-legends-of-eriador-content-update-to-lord-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/turbine-brings-lost-legends-of-eriador-content-update-to-lord-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/24/turbine-brings-lost-legends-of-eriador-content-update-to-lord-of/#comments Turbine has launched update No. 3 for Lord of the Rings Online, which adds the Lost Legends of Eriador to the free-to-play MMO. Along with new items available in the game's store, there are two new three-player instances to play through, including the Halls of Night, where an ancient Barrow-wight is hunting you and your party through in a dream, and the Inn of the Forsaken, a new dungeon with puzzles, riddles and even an underground ship to find.

The update also brings two new skirmish instances, Attack at Dawn and the Icy Crevasse, along with new purchasable character boosts and a scroll for sale that allows you to reset all your skirmish marks when used. The update is currently live -- while you're waiting for it to download, take a gander at the screenshots below.

Gallery: Lord of the Rings Online Content Update 3: Lost Legends of Eriador

JoystiqTurbine brings Lost Legends of Eriador content update to Lord of the Rings Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 May 2011 08:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentcontent-updatefree-to-playinstancesLord-of-the-Rings-Onlinelost-legends-of-eriadorlotrommopcskrimishesturbineTue, 24 May 2011 08:05:00 EST<![CDATA[LOTRO free for lapsed players until Aug. 24, new subscriptions $10 per month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/lotro-free-for-lapsed-players-until-aug-24-new-subscriptions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/lotro-free-for-lapsed-players-until-aug-24-new-subscriptions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/lotro-free-for-lapsed-players-until-aug-24-new-subscriptions/#comments
A quick note for those who have been jilted by Lord of the Rings Online: It's ready to take you back. Not only that, but all returning users can play the game for free until August 24. Players with lapsed accounts will also be able to enjoy the new content found in the "Scourge of Khazad-dum" expansion and receive 25 percent bonus experience. Once the free period expires, players can rejoin the MMO for ten bucks a month.

If you're new to the game, you can still sign up for $9.99 a month, so long as you purchase at least three months in advance before September 30. Not a bad deal, unless you have something else to keep you busy.

[Via Massively]

Source - LOTRO.com -- Welcome Back Week
Source - LOTRO.com -- Stay Cool in Middle-earth

JoystiqLOTRO free for lapsed players until Aug. 24, new subscriptions $10 per month originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommoturbineFri, 21 Aug 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Lord of the Rings Online expansion coming in June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/next-lord-of-the-rings-online-expansion-coming-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/next-lord-of-the-rings-online-expansion-coming-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/next-lord-of-the-rings-online-expansion-coming-in-june/#comments
We've officially stopped keeping up with Lord of the RIngs Online, but the updates for the game just keep on coming, so we assume that someone out there is paying attention. So, we're going to do our part for the mysterious, silent fans by letting them know that the next free expansion for the game will arrive in June and will be called "Volume II: Book 8: Scourge of Khazad-dum."

... Wait, that's seriously the name? Jeez, no wonder we haven't kept up.

JoystiqNext Lord of the Rings Online expansion coming in June originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 May 2009 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrlotrommoturbineFri, 29 May 2009 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Glu Mobile exec Nate Jones joins Turbine ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/former-glu-mobile-exec-nate-jones-joins-turbine/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/former-glu-mobile-exec-nate-jones-joins-turbine/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/former-glu-mobile-exec-nate-jones-joins-turbine/#comments Another executive has leveled up to MMO developer Turbine. Following recent appointments of Ken Surdan as operations vice president in March and ex-Flagship guys Dave Brevik and Jeff Lind last October, former Glu Mobile exec Nate Jones has joined Turbine as the company's new VP of corporate and business development. In his new job, Jones will look after licensing partnerships, joint ventures and mergers and acquisitions for the company.

The position should be familiar to Jones, who previously served as Glu Mobile's vice prez of strategy and corporate development, a role which to our untrained ears sounds very much the same as his new duties at Turbine. Granted we're sometimes not up to speed on the latest corporate speak, so while this all sounds impressive in truth this could just be a fancy way of describing Jones' work as Turbine's newest sandwich artist. He picked a hell of a day to quit working at Glu.

JoystiqFormer Glu Mobile exec Nate Jones joins Turbine originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 May 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asherons-callddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommoturbineThu, 28 May 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumorang: Lord of the Rings Online could carry a monthly fee on 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/rumorang-lord-of-the-rings-online-could-carry-a-monthly-fee-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/rumorang-lord-of-the-rings-online-could-carry-a-monthly-fee-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/rumorang-lord-of-the-rings-online-could-carry-a-monthly-fee-on/#comments A little over a month after rumors started swirling about an Xbox 360 version of Turbine's Lord of the Rings Online MMO, GameDaily has obtained images from an online survey suggesting the unannounced game could carry a monthly subscription fee. Specifically, the survey asked, "Assuming that you liked the content and theme of this Lord of the Rings MMO for the Xbox 360, how likely would you be to purchase the game for $59.99, plus pay a monthly subscription of $12.99?"

According to GameDaily's report, the survey also inquires as to what respondees believe would be reasonable real-money prices for various microtransaction items -- armor and weapons, additional areas, new classes, etc. -- from the game.

This development comes one week after Turbine's VP of Product Development, Craig Alexander, said the company is developing its games for consoles during the MIT Business in Gaming conference. When contacted regarding the survey, the company's director of public relations, Adam Mersky, replied, "Turbine has always been focused on the customer and one of the ways we do that is through extensive consumer research. We won't comment on this research or any of our future plans at this time." Mersky previously told Joystiq that Turbine would have something to show for consoles "by summer," with more news due in "a couple of months." That was April; E3 is in June ... a couple of months later. Coincidence? Survey says: "no."

JoystiqRumorang: Lord of the Rings Online could carry a monthly fee on 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 May 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroMicrosoftsubscriptionsurveyturbineXbox-360Wed, 13 May 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Lord of the Rings Online bound for Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/rumor-lord-of-the-rings-online-bound-for-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/rumor-lord-of-the-rings-online-bound-for-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/rumor-lord-of-the-rings-online-bound-for-xbox-360/#comments
We've known since last summer that Turbine, developer of Lord of the Rings Online, is working on a console MMO -- just not what said game is. Enter Destructoid, which reports a rumor that the company is bringing LOTRO to Xbox 360.

We contacted Turbine for comment and spoke with its director of public relations, Adam Mersky. "We saw that rumor, too," he told us, adding, "We're not talking about what we're working on specifically, only that we're making a console MMO and actively working with Microsoft and Sony."

Mersky said Turbine is "making good progress" on the title, but any rumors that a console version of LOTRO is close to finished are false. "We plan to make more noise in a couple of months," he responded when asked about its plans to unveil the title. Will it be at E3? "We'll definitely have something to show by summer," said Mersky.

JoystiqRumor: Lord of the Rings Online bound for Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroMicrosoftmmorumorturbineXbox-360Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine names travel mogul as operations VP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/turbine-names-travel-mogul-as-operations-vp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/turbine-names-travel-mogul-as-operations-vp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/turbine-names-travel-mogul-as-operations-vp/#comments
There's a new sheriff in town at MMO factory Turbine. Well, sheriff is probably too strong of a word. How about deputy? Or, barring that, principal, maybe. Whatever the case, his name is Ken Surdan, and he's the dev's new VP of operations.

Surdan's duties will be many in the new role, from fostering customer relations to overseeing the global operations of each of Turbine's franchises, including The Lord of the Rings Online, Dungeons & Dragons Online and Asheron's Call. Now, looking over his resume, he doesn't have much -- well, okay any game industry experience. Still, the 15 year corporate vet has served in a number of high profile positions at such travel companies as TripAdvisor Media Network and National Leisure Group, making him the one to call on when execs want to get away ... even if he doesn't know his experience point from a platinum piece.

JoystiqTurbine names travel mogul as operations VP originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asherons-callddodungeons-and-dragons-onlinelord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroturbineTue, 10 Mar 2009 00:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively week in review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/04/massively-week-in-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Joystiq's sister site Massively.com has all the news you'll need about MMOs. Here's the best, brightest, and most interesting stuff from the last week, all in one convenient place for your MMO minute.
Massively's complete coverage of Warhammer Online Patch 1.2
Dwarf Slayers are just about ready to start hitting the live Warhammer Online servers for all their worth. With the orange tide imminent, I've been running around the test server for the past several days, looking to learn all I could about these wonders of Dwarven kind. Including -- but not limited to -- the underlying cogs of their special mechanic, how they handle PvP and PvE, and most importantly where they hide their booze -- here's a hint: it's underneath something.
EVE Evolved: Apocrypha expansion preview
As March 10th draws ever closer, EVE Online's Apocrypha expansion is coming more and more into focus. Information on the new game mechanics and content is being released in the form of developer blogs and the official expansion page complete with screenshots and artwork is already up.

Continue reading Massively week in review

JoystiqMassively week in review originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eve-onlinefeaturedfree-realmslotromassivelymassively-week-in-reviewmmoPCstar-trekstar-trek-onlineWed, 04 Mar 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively week in review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/25/massively-week-in-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Joystiq's sister site Massively.com has all the news you'll need about MMOs. Here's the best, brightest, and most interesting stuff from the last week, all in one convenient place for your MMO minute.
Visualizing Free Realms: An interview with Art Director Rosie Rappaport
If you've been following the development of SOE's Free Realms lately, you're probably pretty excited about everything it has to offer. If you haven't been following its development, check out our extensive coverage and exclusive interviews with its developers. Ready for even more exclusive interviews? Good, because just last week Massively sat down with Rosie Rappaport, the Art Director for Free Realms, to chat about the game's distinctive art style and the concept process involved.
Massively's pre-launch interview with Runes of Magic
With the game set to launch in just about a month from now, we jumped at the chance to have a chat with the folks at Frogster concerning their much-anticipated fantasy MMO. Are they on track with this March launch date? How has beta reaction been so far, and what do they have to say about the growing concern that the game is "nothing more than a cheap WoW clone"?

Continue reading Massively week in review

JoystiqMassively week in review originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnoutchampions-onlinedarkfalleve-onlinefeaturedfree-realmslotromassivelymassively-week-in-reviewmmoPCpvprunes-of-magicwebcomicWed, 25 Feb 2009 00:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Ex-Flagship execs recruited for new Turbine studio ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/ex-flagship-execs-recruited-for-new-turbine-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/ex-flagship-execs-recruited-for-new-turbine-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/ex-flagship-execs-recruited-for-new-turbine-studio/#commentsFiled under: ,

While Flagship's maiden voyage may have ended up as splintered wreckage at the bottom of the massively multiplayer ocean, a pair of its former crew have found safe harbor at fellow MMO studio, Turbine. The Lord of the Rings Online developer announced that former Flagship execs Dave Brevik and Jeff Lind have joined the company, and will help spearhead a newly opened studio in Redwood City, CA.


The pair is joined by industry vet and former Sniper Studios president and CEO, Matt McKnight, who will serve as the new studio's Director, while Brevik and Lind will take on roles as creative director and engineering director respectively. We offer congratulations and best of luck to all three gentlemen, though we're particularly interested in seeing what Brevik does with his new position. Creative director marks a change from his previous role as Flagship's chief visionary officer, a wise course correction given that his foresight apparently stopped just short of predicting his former employer's impending doom.

JoystiqEx-Flagship execs recruited for new Turbine studio originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeons-and-dragons-onlineflagshipflagship-studioslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotroturbinewest-coastMon, 13 Oct 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO expansion Mines of Moria coming Nov. 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/lotro-expansion-mines-of-moria-coming-nov-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/lotro-expansion-mines-of-moria-coming-nov-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/09/lotro-expansion-mines-of-moria-coming-nov-18/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you've been looking for an excuse to tend to your long-neglected digital pipe-weed garden, you'll have it on Nov. 18 when Lord of the Rings Online expansion The Mines of Moria arrives on shelves or on your hard drive. In addition to the titular mines, the pack also includes two new classes, ten more levels and a swan boat full of new quests.

Just how the $39.99 expansion will make its way to your computer is up to you. There's an early digital upgrade and two different retail SKUs, each with their own perks and bonuses, all of which you can read about right here.

JoystiqLotRO expansion Mines of Moria coming Nov. 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansion-packlord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriaPCturbineThu, 09 Oct 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[See first footage of LOTRO: Mines of Moria]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/see-first-footage-of-lotro-mines-of-moria/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/see-first-footage-of-lotro-mines-of-moria/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/see-first-footage-of-lotro-mines-of-moria/#commentsFiled under: ,


We might not be playing Tubine's massively multiplayer take on Tolkien's tale anymore, but we have to admit that the recently released fly-through of expansion Mines of Moria's Flaming Deeps area looks pretty spectacular. We've lovingly nestled it after the jump so you can see for yourself.

It doesn't hurt that the music makes us feel like we could punch an orc's head off with our bare hands, which, even for the beefiest Joystiq staffers, is a pretty tall order.

Continue reading See first footage of LOTRO: Mines of Moria

JoystiqSee first footage of LOTRO: Mines of Moria originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemasterslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriaPCturbineTue, 09 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Turbine to bring Dungeons & Dragons Online to consoles...maybe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/rumor-turbine-to-bring-dungeons-and-dragons-online-to-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/rumor-turbine-to-bring-dungeons-and-dragons-online-to-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/rumor-turbine-to-bring-dungeons-and-dragons-online-to-consoles/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It's time to fire up the speculation engine boys and girls, as a pair of developments at Lord of the Rings Online developer Turbine indicate that MMO studio may have aspirations to bring Dungeons & Dragons Online to the living room. The Westwood-based company has posted a job opening for a senior console engineer with a MMO background as well as experience developing on both the Xbox 360 and PS3. Additionally, Turbine made public on its DDO community forum that the game's developers are "working full-tilt on several things that are still under tight wraps," and that "DDO will be getting more and more focus from Turbine's marketing and PR teams over the coming months."

While far from conclusive, together this information makes a convincing argument for Turbine prepping its pen-and-paper inspired MMO for the console market. It makes sense, particularly given the company's recent financial investments, part of which Turbine CEO Jim Crowley admitted will go towards expanding the dev's supported platforms. For now, however, we continue to wait for any official word while making saving throws vs. patience and taking all of this with 1D6 grains of salt.

JoystiqRumor: Turbine to bring Dungeons & Dragons Online to consoles...maybe originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddodungeons-and-dragons...dungeonsanddragonslord-of-the-rings-on...lordoftheringsonlinelotroPS3rumorspeculationturbineXbox-360Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Time Warner Inc. invests in LOTRO developer Turbine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/time-warner-inc-invests-in-lotro-developer-turbine/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/time-warner-inc-invests-in-lotro-developer-turbine/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/time-warner-inc-invests-in-lotro-developer-turbine/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Lord of the Rings Online and Dungeons & Dragons Online developer, Turbine Inc., today announced its success in raising $40 million in equity financing. In addition to operating a particularly ruthless lemonade stand, Turbine secured the funds via new investors Time Warner Inc. and GGV Capital (formerly Granite Global Ventures). "Turbine has an extraordinary team, incredible technology and a growing portfolio of games based on some of the most popular brands ever created," said president and CEO of Turbine, Jim Crowley. "With this funding we are uniquely positioned to change the future of online entertainment as we bring new titles to market, expand the platforms we support and introduce new technologies to sustain self-evolving game worlds."

New games and new technologies sound like responsible things to invest in, Mr. Crowley. Responsible, but boring. We would have gone for something like the world's biggest ice cream cake.

JoystiqTime Warner Inc. invests in LOTRO developer Turbine originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Asherons-CallDungeons-and-Dragons-OnlineLOTROMMORPGPCTurbineWed, 04 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine secures $40 million investment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/turbine-secures-40-million-investment/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/turbine-secures-40-million-investment/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/turbine-secures-40-million-investment/#commentsFiled under: , ,


MMO developer Turbine found its purse a bit heavier this week after securing a $40 million round of financing from a group of investors led by Granite Global Ventures, filling the Lord of the Rings Online creator's total venture capital money bin to around $90 million mark.

According to a report by Private Equity Hub, the investment also saw Granite Global's managing partner Hani Nada take a seat on Turbine's board, presumably in order to make sure the money was put to good use and not slipped into the underwear of Elvish hookers after a night on the town. While we remain in the dark as to what exactly the studio will do with its newfound wealth, Turbine is expected to make an announcement regarding its future plans in the next two weeks.

[Via GI.biz]

JoystiqTurbine secures $40 million investment originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 May 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asherons-calldungeons-and-dragons...lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-on...lordoftheringslordoftheringsonlinelotrlotroPCturbineThu, 01 May 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[April Fools' Alert #9: Middle-Earth invaded by fowl creatures]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/april-fools-alert-9-middle-earth-invaded-by-fowl-creatures/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/april-fools-alert-9-middle-earth-invaded-by-fowl-creatures/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/april-fools-alert-9-middle-earth-invaded-by-fowl-creatures/#commentsFiled under: ,


In what's become de riguer for the folks at Turbine Software, this April Fools' Day sees the announcement of a brand new content update for Middle-Earth's MMO, The Lord of the Rings Online. Dubbed "The Battle of Amon Hen," the not-at-all-downloadable peckage introduces a new playable chicken class and an accompanying quest, "Crossing the Road." Penny-pinching players should be pleased to note that Turbine doesn't aim to recooperate any of the update's cost, offering it for the poultry fee of "free." We'd make another chicken joke, but we'd rather send you off to the game's official site and pass the buck-buck-buck.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqApril Fools' Alert #9: Middle-Earth invaded by fowl creatures originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AprilFools08Lord-of-the-Rings-OnlineLOTROPCTurbine-SoftwareTue, 01 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO expansion takes players to Mines of Moria]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/lotro-expansion-takes-players-to-mines-of-moria/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/lotro-expansion-takes-players-to-mines-of-moria/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/lotro-expansion-takes-players-to-mines-of-moria/#commentsFiled under:


Good news for fans of the under-appreciated Lord of the Rings Online today: Executive producer Jeffrey Steefel has announced that the game's first expansion pack, The Mines of Moria, will be coming to your PC by the end of the year. Well, maybe not your PC. But you probably knows someone who plays it, right?

What's new? Well, the level cap's being raised from 50 to 60, so that's ... higher. Also you've got two new classes (the Warden and Runekeeper) and look for a brand new 'legendary' loot system, which will allow your items to evolve with a character as they're used. If you're choking on your Lembas bread with excitement, you might be able to track down some more details at this teaser site.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqLotRO expansion takes players to Mines of Moria originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-rings-onlinelotromines-of-moriaturbineFri, 14 Mar 2008 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine, Tolkien to stay in bed together until 2014 (and beyond)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/turbine-tolkien-to-stay-in-bed-together-until-2014-and-beyond/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/turbine-tolkien-to-stay-in-bed-together-until-2014-and-beyond/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/turbine-tolkien-to-stay-in-bed-together-until-2014-and-beyond/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You know what it's like when it's early morning and so toasty under the covers snuggled up against that someone special that you just don't see any reason to get out bed. We imagine that's a lot like the relationship between The Lord of the Rings Online developer Turbine and Tolkien Enterprises, as the pair have agreed to extend their relationship until 2014 -- with an option to work together for three more years after that -- ensuring that players will be able to continue to frolic and grind their way through Middle Earth.

We're very interested to see where Turbine takes the franchise going forward, especially after comments made by executive producer Jeffrey Steefel in January regarding the developer's console-based aspirations for the license. In addition, while no new game announcements have been made, the recent confirmation of a new 2-part Hobbit film finally getting underway would seem to make excellent fodder for the MMO developer, and we expect that the pair will continue to play footsie beneath the sheets for years to come.

JoystiqTurbine, Tolkien to stay in bed together until 2014 (and beyond) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelordoftheringslordoftheringsonlinelotrlotroPCtolkienturbineWed, 20 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Codemasters CEO: We're an attractive acquisition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/17/codemasters-ceo-we-are-an-attractive-acquisition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/17/codemasters-ceo-we-are-an-attractive-acquisition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/17/codemasters-ceo-we-are-an-attractive-acquisition/#commentsFiled under:


Codemasters CEO Rod Cousens went full-out lady of the night in an MCV interview speaking about industry consolidation, saying his company should be considered attractive to potential suiters. Cousens believes Codemasters is "the fastest growing company in the fastest growing entertainment sector" and believes it is "unrivaled" as a privately-owned company.

Well then, wow, that's coming on strong. Codemasters did have an admittedly strong 2007 despite the mixed quality of games like Overlord, Dirt and Jericho. The company is also planning its Codemasters Online convention for Birmingham, England in March. We'll keep an eye on who is checking out Codemasters from the streets and certainly report if anybody puts money down for a good time.

JoystiqCodemasters CEO: We're an attractive acquisition originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemasterscodemastersonlinecodematers-onlinecousensdanddonlineddolordoftheringsonlnelotrorod-cousensThu, 17 Jan 2008 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Codemasters Online launches new consumer event this March in Birmingham, England]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/codemasters-online-launches-new-consumer-event-this-march-in-bir/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/codemasters-online-launches-new-consumer-event-this-march-in-bir/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/codemasters-online-launches-new-consumer-event-this-march-in-bir/#commentsFiled under: ,


Codemasters Online is producing a Blizzcon style event called Codemasters Online Connect 2008 (that's just not a sexy name) featuring its lineup of MMO games. Attendees will log into the real world at Omega Sektor in Birmingham, England on March 14 and 15 to log right back out again on 400 PCs running various Codemaster Online games. Alternatively, they can stick around the real world a little bit for round-table discussions and pose questions to the "Codemasters Online team." Ticket prices have yet to be announced.

The event will showcase games already out like Lord of the Rings Online and Dungeons & Dragons Online, and will apparently offer some game announcements. So, if you're looking for a Blizzcon featuring the second tier MMOs currently on the market, get ready to pack your bags for Birmingham.

JoystiqCodemasters Online launches new consumer event this March in Birmingham, England originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jan 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemasterscodemastersonlinecodematers-onlinedanddonlineddolordoftheringsonlnelotroPCTue, 08 Jan 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online Book 11 brings new raids, player-owned housing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/lord-of-the-rings-online-book-11-brings-new-raids-player-owned/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/lord-of-the-rings-online-book-11-brings-new-raids-player-owned/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/lord-of-the-rings-online-book-11-brings-new-raids-player-owned/#commentsFiled under: ,


Just like the unlikely heroes in its namesake, Lord of the Rings Online continues to persevere, despite impossible odds. Now, much like Gandalf when times looked darkest for the Fellowship, Turbine is releasing some new content for the game, including new high-level stuff, new raids and player-owned housing. ... Well, it's what Gandalf would have done, if he hadn't lived in caveman times.

We're not playing LOTRO, so it's difficult to say how much this content will mean to players. But it doesn't take a wizard to figure out that free content it always a good thing. Look for Book 11: Defenders of Eriador sometime this month, and our sister blog Massively will have ongoing in-depth coverage of Book 11.

JoystiqLord of the Rings Online Book 11 brings new raids, player-owned housing originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Oct 2007 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>book-11dlclotroPCturbineThu, 18 Oct 2007 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine gets new CEO, but what happened to the old one?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/06/turbine-gets-new-ceo-but-what-happened-to-the-old-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/06/turbine-gets-new-ceo-but-what-happened-to-the-old-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/06/turbine-gets-new-ceo-but-what-happened-to-the-old-one/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Turbine Studios, developer of Lord of the Rings Online and D&D Online, announced a new CEO yesterday to replace long-time CEO Jeff Anderson (pictured). New CEO Jeff Crowley, who came from outside the industry, was brought on board a couple months ago as "one of many [hires] that Turbine has recently made to invest in new talent that will drive the next wave of the company's growth." Translation: The Turbine board wasn't happy with the management or money the company was making and decided to make changes.

There's no mention of Anderson's fate in the press release, but word is that he's been pushed out of the company. It'll be interesting to see how Crowley handles the company, Anderson was always the public face of Turbine and its games. It'll also be interesting to see if Crowley survives the behind-the-scenes issues which caused the shakeup in the first place.

JoystiqTurbine gets new CEO, but what happened to the old one? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Oct 2007 23:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andersoncrowleylordoftheringsonlinelotroPCturbineSat, 06 Oct 2007 23:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online free 7-day trial]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/29/lord-of-the-rings-online-free-7-day-trial/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/29/lord-of-the-rings-online-free-7-day-trial/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/29/lord-of-the-rings-online-free-7-day-trial/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Turbine announced today that they're offering a free 7-day trial for their successful Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar. The offer is available for North America, Australia and New Zealand. The press release finally gives us some numbers for LoTRO and says there are "4 million characters calling Middle-earth their home." That's a pretty slick way of avoiding how many actual accounts there are, but we'll totally believe them that it's the "second largest MMORPG" behind the unfathomably successful World of Warcraft. In that race, second place is a perfectly respectable place to be.

LoTRO recently had their second content update which continues to drive the MMO in a good direction. The game seems to be doing well enough that it's been mentioned as being part of Midway's increasing fiscal fortitude. The first full expansion for LoTRO, which will cover the events in The Two Towers and its peripheral story lines, is expected to be announced early next year.

JoystiqLord of the Rings Online free 7-day trial originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Aug 2007 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freetriallordoftheringsonlinelotromidwayPCturbineWed, 29 Aug 2007 18:31:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO updates Aug. 20 with 'The City of the Kings']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/lotro-updates-aug-20-with-the-city-of-the-kings/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/lotro-updates-aug-20-with-the-city-of-the-kings/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/lotro-updates-aug-20-with-the-city-of-the-kings/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Turbine's Lord of the Rings Online is getting another free content update with Book 10: The City of the Kings on Aug. 20. Turbine has been pretty solid in delivering content updates for their games on a regular schedule, releasing Shores of Evendim shortly after launch. The new content includes:
  • Spending Destiny Points to play as a Ranger or Troll during monster play in the Ettenmoors.
  • Playing as a "critter," the first of which is a chicken. LotRO players can now explore Middle-earth from the non-humanoid perspective.
  • A reputation and bartering system, which allows players to gain rep. for rewards with factions and the bartering system allows players to trade trophies for gear.
  • 100 new quests
  • UI is now more customizable
Although Turbine won't talk about how many players they have, they're boosting US publisher Midway's bottom line so they can't be doing all bad. LotRO game looks to get continual updates leading up to the expansion, which should be announced early next year.

[Via press release]

JoystiqLotRO updates Aug. 20 with 'The City of the Kings' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Aug 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cityofthekingslotroordoftheringsPCshadowsofangmarshoresofevendimturbineMon, 13 Aug 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Midway close to being profitable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/midway-close-to-being-profitable/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/midway-close-to-being-profitable/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/midway-close-to-being-profitable/#commentsFiled under:


Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter tells GameDaily that Midway may be only one franchise away from not playing the Atari game of financial problems anymore. Recently Midway reduced their losses to around $14 million, which sounds like a lot to us normal folk, but for a corporation, that's like owing someone $20. Apparently Lord of the Rings Online helped bolster the bottom line, but because Midway is merely the distributer, Turbine is still reaping most of the benefits.

Pachter believes Stranglehold will help Midway's cash flow and he expects it to sell a million copies in its first quarter of release. He believes profitability is right around the corner for the company if any of its titles do better than expected. Let's see, the contenders are Stranglehold, Blacksite: Area 51, and Unreal Tournament III. Given the way the industry is going, there's no reason any major company shouldn't currently be profitable -- unless they've got a great excuse.

JoystiqMidway close to being profitable originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lordoftheringsonlinelotromidwaypachterThu, 02 Aug 2007 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine won't deny possibility of console Lord of the Rings MMO]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/turbine-wont-deny-possibly-of-console-lord-of-the-rings-mmo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/turbine-wont-deny-possibly-of-console-lord-of-the-rings-mmo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/turbine-wont-deny-possibly-of-console-lord-of-the-rings-mmo/#commentsFiled under:

Ever since people got word of the stealth-action MMO The Agency, a lingering question in the back of everyone's mind has been "will other MMO's get console attention now?" The answer is complicated. Blizzard probably won't bring World of Warcrap to consoles, but other developers are more open to the possibilities of console gamers who don't feel like getting a new computer every six months.

Turbine Entertainment, creative minds behind The Lord of The Rings Online, are open to the idea. "I actually think Lord of the Rings is a platform we can build from," said executive producer Jeffrey Steefel. Even though the PS3 supports keyboards and mice, they've still got to think of a way to translate the game from PC to consoles. Steefel vaguely explained, " ... you've got to do everything in a thoughtful way and know why you're doing it, for who you're doing it, and then, what is an MMO on a console? What is that really? It has to be different." However different it may be, we'd be honored to start getting some MMO's on the PlayStation 3. Whether or not the game would feature cross-platform play is not known, but we'd like to see it exist someday.

JoystiqTurbine won't deny possibility of console Lord of the Rings MMO originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord of the rings onlineLordOfTheRingsOnlinelotroPlayStation 3Playstation3PS3Sonyturbineturbine entertainmentTurbineEntertainmentFri, 22 Jun 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[See LotRO's Shores of Evendim in all their video glory]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/see-lotros-shores-of-evendim-in-all-their-video-glory/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/see-lotros-shores-of-evendim-in-all-their-video-glory/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/see-lotros-shores-of-evendim-in-all-their-video-glory/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We've already shared with you some of the new features added by the forthcoming Lord of the Rings Online update, Book 9: The Shores of Evendim so you know it's not all sandy beaches and sunscreen. Actually, none of it is. Further evidence of Shores' non-friendliness to vacationers is evident in this new trailer.

Take, for instance, that weird spear-carrying goblin. Good luck selling a condo next to that guy's hut. Oh, and we see there are creepy lizards roaming around and lots of stuff appears to be on fire! Watch those property values skyrocket. Don't trust your friendly Hobbit travel agent Seemo Islands, check it out for yourself when the free content goes live tomorrow.

JoystiqSee LotRO's Shores of Evendim in all their video glory originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evendimlordoftheringsonlinelotropcupdateTue, 12 Jun 2007 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO updates and takes a trip to shores of Evendim]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/lotro-updates-and-takes-a-trip-to-shores-of-evendim/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/lotro-updates-and-takes-a-trip-to-shores-of-evendim/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/lotro-updates-and-takes-a-trip-to-shores-of-evendim/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar is apparently the #1 selling PC game in North America, Germany, UK and France and they're about to give players a free content update. Book 9: Shores of Evendim is the first in the expected quarterly content updates. The content update will go live June 13, some features include:
  • Discover Evendim, a region dominated by the Lake Nenuial, the 'Lake of the Twilight'. Amidst the ruins are powerful artifacts now threatened by evil creatures and the nefarious forces lurking in Angmar. What, you thought there would be cute puppies?
  • Over 100 new quests
  • Raid in the Battle for Helegrod, challenging the dragon Thorog in a 24-player raid in the Misty Mountains.
  • Major updates to the music system, players can now utilize a new music notation system that enables them to compose music offline and upload it to your character in-game.
  • Seven new sets of epic armor enable players to gain progressive bonuses for each piece of armor worn from a set.
We haven't received any player numbers for LotRO, so we don't know if Turbine has hit the magic million user mark, but from all accounts things are going solidly with the game. LotRO: Shadows of Angmar follows the adventures of the fellowship through the first book in the trilogy and fills in the gaps of the story. A few more content updates are expected before the full expansion pack next year.

[Via Press Release]

JoystiqLotRO updates and takes a trip to shores of Evendim originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord of the ringslotroPCshadows of angmarshores of evendimturbineTue, 05 Jun 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LotRO producer says real money for game items is the future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/lotro-producer-says-real-money-for-game-items-is-the-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/lotro-producer-says-real-money-for-game-items-is-the-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/lotro-producer-says-real-money-for-game-items-is-the-future/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Turbine, the company behind Lord of the Rings Online, recently had executive producer Jeffrey Steefel sit down for an interview where he said the company is keeping an eye on the "secondary market" of legally purchasing in-game items with real money. He says in the next five years the MMO business model will change to accommodate using real-life money to buy in-game currency.

Steefel says, "Our position is pretty straightforward right now. Our responsibility is to the subscribers of the game, to deliver to them the experience they expect. So we certainly do not support people farming or taking advantage of the system in that way. It's against our Terms of Service and we do try and enforce that. ... But, we all know that something will happen in the next two to five years to business models in general, so we're paying attention to what's going on; watching what's going on with Sony Station whose servers support and manage this."

Sony Station Exchange is the controversial pay for item model. Advocates say it's a way for people who don't have the time, to pay their way into the game. Many gamers consider it corporate sponsored gold farming. Even if you purchase an item through an exchange, you can always sell it in-game for currency. Paying your way into an MMO just feels like an athlete using steroids. Sure, you can argue that if the means are there and the time isn't, why not do it? We just don't know how we'd feel about playing a game where you can, as part of the rules, pay a company extra money to get ahead.

JoystiqLotRO producer says real money for game items is the future originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2007 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eurogamerlord of the ringslotroPCsony station exchangesteefelWed, 30 May 2007 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine becoming fat hobbitses off LoTRO sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/turbine-becoming-fat-hobbitses-off-lotro-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/turbine-becoming-fat-hobbitses-off-lotro-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/turbine-becoming-fat-hobbitses-off-lotro-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Looks like the battle for fantasy-based MMORPG supremacy is on. Turbine announced today that Lord of the Rings: Shadows of Angmar is the #1 selling game in North America and Europe according to various sales data. They may have a long way to go before taking a bite out of World of Warcraft's 8.5 million users, but at least they didn't fall on their face like Vanguard.

Reviews have been pleasant for the game and we haven't heard of constant server crashes like we did at the beginning of WoW's life. Then again, Turbine's been at the MMO biz for a while now. The first free content update is already expected in June. It'll be interesting to see when Turbine releases their first user numbers and if they hit that magical 1 million milestone. Well, the game isn't a flop and brings a good alternative choice in the MMO market. But the journey is still long.

[Via Press Release]

JoystiqTurbine becoming fat hobbitses off LoTRO sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2007 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hobbitslord of the rings onlinelotroPCshadows of angmarThu, 10 May 2007 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine announces LOTRO update 'Shores of Evendim']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/turbine-announces-lotro-update-shores-of-evendim/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/turbine-announces-lotro-update-shores-of-evendim/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/20/turbine-announces-lotro-update-shores-of-evendim/#commentsFiled under: ,

Lord of the Rings Online is barely in Open Beta, but Turbine already announced its first free content update, called Shores of Evendim. Coming in June, Shores of Evendim will challenge players to "secure the valuables of the abandoned city," "defy Angmar's encroaching grip on Annúminas," and "experience revolutionary new Prancin' Hobbit Mode (PHM)." Okay, we made that last part up. But one of these days, somebody needs to come up with a game featuring Prancin' Hobbit Mode. (Or at least Prancin' Ewok Mode.)

[Thanks, Bripod!]

JoystiqTurbine announces LOTRO update 'Shores of Evendim' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Apr 2007 21:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionlotrommommorpgrpgturbineFri, 20 Apr 2007 21:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Midnight launches for Lord of the Rings Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/midnight-launches-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/midnight-launches-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/midnight-launches-for-lord-of-the-rings-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Can't wait to get your hands on Frodo? Wait, that came out bad. Um, ready to start your journey to Mount Doom as soon as possible? Gamestop/EB Games is holding midnight launches in select cities for Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar. Those waiting in line will have a chance to win t-shirts, signed posters, game subscription codes and various bits of other phat lootz swag. Here's where the cosplayers should start getting giddy: Three fans wearing the best Lord of the Rings-themed costume will win a special prize. Also, various members of the development team will be at the locations answering questions about the game.

All events are from 11 PM to Midnight on Monday, April 23 at:
  • Boston - Prudential Mall
  • Chicago - 920 Church Street, Evanston, IL
  • Los Angeles - Store TBD
  • New York - Broadway and 33rd, 1282 Broadway
  • Seattle - 248 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, WA
If you don't know if you're ready to start the quest to get rid of that precious ring, the open beta for LotRO is still going on until next Monday. The game has received decent early buzz and has been a top-seller in the PC category on Gamestop.com for a while. We'll find out in a week if LotRo has what it takes to put a dent in the unstoppable megahit World of Warcraft.

JoystiqMidnight launches for Lord of the Rings Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Apr 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eb gamesgamestoplord of the ring onlinelotromidnight eventPCTue, 17 Apr 2007 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online free until April 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/06/lord-of-the-rings-online-free-until-april-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/06/lord-of-the-rings-online-free-until-april-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/06/lord-of-the-rings-online-free-until-april-24/#commentsFiled under: , ,


For the next 17 days feel free to go on a Lord of the Rings: Shadows of Angmar bender. Turbine is opening up the floodgates and letting anyone who wants to experience the game play for free until the official launch April 24. The MMORPG's developer knows who they are up against and told Joystiq previously that they put a lot of work into the game. They're launching the title polished like no other MMORPG has been before to contend in the market.

Players will be able to advance to level 15 and transfer that character if they decide to pre-order the game. LotRO also allows those that know they are going to like the game during this free trial to spend $199 for a lifetime subscription, otherwise there is a $9.99/month charge. So, if you're into MMORPGs at all or just want to check out LotRO, go ahead -- it's free.

JoystiqLord of the Rings Online free until April 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Apr 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free triallord of the ringsLordOfTheRingslotroPCshadows of angmartestFri, 06 Apr 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Middle-earth expands to the Middle Kingdom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/04/middle-earth-expands-to-the-middle-kingdom/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/04/middle-earth-expands-to-the-middle-kingdom/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/04/middle-earth-expands-to-the-middle-kingdom/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Middle-earth expands to the Middle Kingdom
According to a press release from Turbine Entertainment, the MMO maker is partnering with China's CDC Games to bring Lord of the Rings Online: The Shadows of Angmar to Chinese gamers -- a market with a strong affinity for online fantasy games. Turbine has already experienced success with Dungeons & Dragons Online in China and Japan, thanks to some effective content localization, and CDC will use a similar strategy by giving Middle-earth a distinctly Asian makeover. I hope this just means substituting tofu and rice for lembas bread, and not giving Gandalf a Fu Manchu moustache.

See also: LOTR Online gameplay footage

JoystiqMiddle-earth expands to the Middle Kingdom originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Oct 2006 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CDC GamesddoDungeons and Dragons OnlineLord of the Rings Onlinelotrlotr onlinelotrommommorpgPCrpgshadows of angmartolkienTurbineWed, 04 Oct 2006 10:15:00 EST