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[SyFy renews Defiance for a second season]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/syfy-renews-defiance-for-a-second-season/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/syfy-renews-defiance-for-a-second-season/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/11/syfy-renews-defiance-for-a-second-season/#comments The SyFy network has picked up Defiance for a second season. Production on the 13-episode season will begin in August in Toronto, and is expected to air in 2014.

The show also has a companion MMO of the same name by Trion Worlds. It's a popular one at that, as it recently saw its millionth user sign up to play. Plus, Defiance will receive five DLC releases this year, so things are looking up for fans of both the game and the show.

Continue reading SyFy renews Defiance for a second season

JoystiqSyFy renews Defiance for a second season originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>defiancemmommorpgseasonshootersyfytrion-worldsSat, 11 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Defiance team plans five DLC releases, first adds the Castithan race and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/defiance-team-plans-five-dlc-releases-first-adds-the-castithan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/defiance-team-plans-five-dlc-releases-first-adds-the-castithan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/defiance-team-plans-five-dlc-releases-first-adds-the-castithan/#commentsDefiance getting 5 DLC things, one looks like this Now that the MMO-slash-TV show Defiance has been launched, says executive producer Nathan Richardsson, things are about to really get good, in the form of five DLC releases later this year. He admits that fan response to the game has it pegged as "about as deep as a bag of chips but great fun," but adds that he'd "like to get to the two-bag of chip depth category or at least, add some salsas for various textures."

Most of those spices will come in the form of DLC, and Richardsson has outlined what the game's first addon, tentatively titled "Enter the Castithan," will look like. There will be three elements to it: Those who buy the downloadable content for $10 will get access to the Castithan playable race, along with a new outfit and vehicle, and a new story mission line and game mode. There will also be free content, including new weapons, a new PvP map called Military Academy, and some other game improvements. And then there will be new items in the store, including weapon mods, more vehicle versions, and the ability to change your character's customizations.

Richardsson says all future add-ons will have these paid, free, and store components, and the team's goal is to keep the updates and content flowing and focused on what players want. The first DLC release is expected to hit the game after a patch later on this month.

JoystiqDefiance team plans five DLC releases, first adds the Castithan race and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contentdefiancedlcdownloadablef2pfree-to-playmicrosoftmmonathan-richardssonpcplaystationps3releasesyfytrion-worldstvxboxFri, 10 May 2013 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Defiance recruits over one million Ark Hunters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/defiance-recruits-over-one-million-ark-hunters/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/defiance-recruits-over-one-million-ark-hunters/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/defiance-recruits-over-one-million-ark-hunters/#comments Trion Worlds' persistent-word shooter Defiance has surpassed a million registered users in its first month, the developer announced today.

Players have collectively murdered over 500,000,000 hellbugs to date in Defiance, while the number of slaughtered heavenbugs is currently unknown. Trion also boasts one million triggered instances in the press release past the break.

Defiance is a trans-media project from Trion Worlds and the SyFy network - Trion Worlds launched the video game side of Defiance in early April, while SyFy's television series is currently ongoing. A "Most Wanted" contest was just announced, where players who average the most Ark Salvage per hour are eligible to win a spot on an upcoming episode of the Defiance TV show. The contest ends on May 12.

Continue reading Defiance recruits over one million Ark Hunters

JoystiqDefiance recruits over one million Ark Hunters originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 May 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>defiancemicrosoftmmopcplaystationps3salessyfytrion-worldsxboxThu, 02 May 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Citizen funding eclipses $9 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/star-citizen-funding-eclipses-9-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/star-citizen-funding-eclipses-9-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/star-citizen-funding-eclipses-9-million/#commentsStar Citizen funding reaches over $9 million Star Citizen has reached over $9 million in funding, thanks to its almost 170,000 contributors. The space exploration MMO, spearheaded by Wing Commander creator Chris Roberts, began with a successful $2 million run on Kickstarter, and has since raised almost $7 million on its own website. The original goal was "just" $500,000, but Star Citizen has topped every stretch goal it set and then some.

As part of its stretch goals, Star Citizen's launch plans include a tablet companion app, celebrity voice acting, a free mission pack for every player, and over 100 star systems to explore while playing. Developer Cloud Imperium Games has just opened offices in Santa Monica, and the game's website is proclaiming a victory for post-publisher game development.

Players will get a chance to explore the world of Star Citizen in an alpha release, scheduled for sometime this winter.

JoystiqStar Citizen funding eclipses $9 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-millionchris-robertscrowdfundingexplorationfree-to-playindependentkickstartermmomoneypcpublisherroberts-space-industriesstar-citizenWed, 01 May 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam adds subscription plans, first is indie MMO Darkfall Unholy Wars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/steam-adds-subscription-plans-first-is-indie-mmo-darkfall-unhol/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/steam-adds-subscription-plans-first-is-indie-mmo-darkfall-unhol/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/steam-adds-subscription-plans-first-is-indie-mmo-darkfall-unhol/#comments Steam adds subscription plans, first is indie MMO Darkfall Unholy WarsSteam launched a subscription payment plan for MMO-style games today, starting off with Darkfall Unholy Wars, a sandbox MMORPG that made its way through community voting on Greenlight in November.

Darkfall Unholy Wars is available for the initial price of $40, and then an auto-renewed subscription of $15 every 30 days. Steam will email subscription plan users with billing details after each transaction, and players can cancel or renew subscriptions at any time. For more information about Steam's subscription plans, check out the FAQ, or dive right into Darkfall Unholy Wars and see where it takes you.

Continue reading Steam adds subscription plans, first is indie MMO Darkfall Unholy Wars

JoystiqSteam adds subscription plans, first is indie MMO Darkfall Unholy Wars originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darkfall-unholy-warsmmommorpgpcSTEAMsubscriptionsubscription-plansThu, 25 Apr 2013 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[CryEngine 3-powered Monster Hunter Online headed to China]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/cryengine-3-powered-monster-hunter-online-headed-to-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/cryengine-3-powered-monster-hunter-online-headed-to-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/18/cryengine-3-powered-monster-hunter-online-headed-to-china/#comments
Capcom and Tencent are working on a new Monster Hunter for the Chinese market - which means that it's a free-to-play MMO for PC. The new Monster Hunter Online also diverges from the rest of the series in that it uses CryEngine 3 instead of one of Capcom's own engines. You can ... really tell.

Monster Hunter Online brings new monsters, weapons, and locations to the series, with the familiar quest-oriented gameplay and giant boss battles. Tencent will begin testing the game in June. And just like that, Capcom is saved!

[Thanks, Szczesny and Mike!]

JoystiqCryEngine 3-powered Monster Hunter Online headed to China originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomchinammomonster-huntermonster-hunter-onlinepctencentThu, 18 Apr 2013 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Defiance final beta invites PC, PS3, Xbox 360 players March 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/defiance-final-beta-invites-pc-ps3-xbox-360-players-march-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/defiance-final-beta-invites-pc-ps3-xbox-360-players-march-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/defiance-final-beta-invites-pc-ps3-xbox-360-players-march-22/#comments Defiance launches on PC, Xbox 360 and PS3 on April 2, but prior to that, developer Trion plans to run one last beta test, including - for the first time - Xbox 360 and PS3. The beta runs the weekend of March 22, starting at 8am PT (11am ET) and concluding on March 24 at 9pm PT (12am ET, March 25).

The final beta opens up the Mt. Tam and Madera regions to players, with co-op battles on Angel Island and the Cronkhite Bunker available. Competitive multiplayer may also be sampled on the Freight Yard and Observatory maps.

Trion is stripping the NDA for this last beta test, so feel free to upload gameplay videos to YouTube, you crazy game streamer you. Expect invites to go out next week, though Trion is guaranteeing beta keys to all who pre-order Defiance from here on out.

Continue reading Defiance final beta invites PC, PS3, Xbox 360 players March 22

JoystiqDefiance final beta invites PC, PS3, Xbox 360 players March 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadefiancemicrosoftmmopcplaystationps3syfysyfy-channeltriontrion-worldsxboxThu, 14 Mar 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Defiance weapon mod trailer is infectious]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/defiance-weapon-mod-trailer-is-infectious/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/defiance-weapon-mod-trailer-is-infectious/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/defiance-weapon-mod-trailer-is-infectious/#comments
This trailer for Trion Worlds' MMO Defiance shows off the weapon customization options in the game. Defiance will launch on April 2 for PS3, Xbox 360 and PC, while its counterpart TV show will air April 15 on SyFy.

JoystiqDefiance weapon mod trailer is infectious originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Mar 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-mmodefiancemicrosoftmmopcplaystationps3syfytriontrion-worldsxboxSat, 09 Mar 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion offering a Defiance season pass with DLC, new species, and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/trion-offering-a-defiance-season-pass-with-dlc-new-species-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/trion-offering-a-defiance-season-pass-with-dlc-new-species-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/trion-offering-a-defiance-season-pass-with-dlc-new-species-and/#comments Trion offering a Defiance season pass with DLC, new species, and moreTrion has posted details on a season pass for Defiance, its MMO-meets-a-TV-show project in conjunction with SyFy. The season pass will cost players $39.99 and enable access to the game's first five DLC packs, which will include a new playable alien species, along with lots of new weapons, vehicles, missions, and other rewards. Plus, pass buyers get two bonus items: a digital Hellbug combat cap, and an extra Lock Box (which is a sealed container in the game for a chance at another item).

The $39.99 is in addition to the game's initial purchase price ($59.99, or $99.99 for the deluxe edition). Defiance won't have a subscription fee, and this price is 20 percent off what the DLC will cost in total.

The Defiance game will be launched on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC on April 2, while the TV show will start on April 15.

Continue reading Trion offering a Defiance season pass with DLC, new species, and more

JoystiqTrion offering a Defiance season pass with DLC, new species, and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonus-itemsconsole-mmodefiancedlcdownloadable-contentmicrosoftmmopcplaystationps3season-passsyfytriontrion-worldstv-showxboxFri, 08 Mar 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Explore Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn in its latest trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/24/explore-final-fantasy-xiv-a-realm-reborn-in-its-latest-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/24/explore-final-fantasy-xiv-a-realm-reborn-in-its-latest-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/24/explore-final-fantasy-xiv-a-realm-reborn-in-its-latest-trailer/#comments
This trailer, using real-time footage for Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, weaves through the game's many battle-ridden environments. Players can sign up for the game's beta program for PC and PS3 on Square Enix's official site.

JoystiqExplore Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn in its latest trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivfinal-fantasy-xiv-a-realm-rebornmmopcplaystationps3Square-EnixSun, 24 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverwinter's magic spells are pretty wizard]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/neverwinters-magic-spells-are-pretty-wizard/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/neverwinters-magic-spells-are-pretty-wizard/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/07/neverwinters-magic-spells-are-pretty-wizard/#comments Cryptic Studios and Atari Perfect World Entertainment have shared both the video above and the gallery below, both designed to show you what the upcoming Neverwinter's Control Wizard class is capable of. As you can see in the video especially, the spells are heavily inspired by pen-and-paper Dungeons and Dragons, and the game will have you casting old favorites like Magic Missile, Ray of Frost, and the destructive Ice Storm.

You can also see a few other 4th Edition D&D mainstays, including Tiefling heroes (they're the ones with the horns) and some NPC zombies and skeletons. The free-to-play MMO is set to be released early next year.

Gallery: Neverwinter (Wizard)

JoystiqNeverwinter's magic spells are pretty wizard originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2012 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4th-editioncryptic-studiosdungeons-and-dragonsfree-to-playmagic-missilemmoneverwinterpcpen-and-paperperfect-world-entertainmentray-of-frostspellswizardWed, 07 Nov 2012 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MechWarrior Online Founders' Program ends soon, open beta next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/mechwarrior-online-founders-program-ends-soon-open-beta-next-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/mechwarrior-online-founders-program-ends-soon-open-beta-next-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/mechwarrior-online-founders-program-ends-soon-open-beta-next-w/#comments MechWarrior Online open beta next weekJoystiq got to see MechWarrior Online in its closed beta at PAX Prime a few months ago, and the game was coming along nicely: a little light on the fast-paced shooter action and heavy on the MechWarrior-based customization options and battle mechanics. Infinite Game Publishing and Piranha Games have announced that MWO is headed into an open beta next week.

Players interested in playing can sign up on the MechWarrior Online website to reserve a name right now, and anyone looking to spend a little money on the free-to-play shooter (based, of course, on the tabletop strategy game) can join the Founders' Program, which offers various tiers of premium rewards. The Founders' Program will finish up on October 14, with the open beta following soon after.

Continue reading MechWarrior Online Founders' Program ends soon, open beta next week

JoystiqMechWarrior Online Founders' Program ends soon, open beta next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpsfree-to-playinfinite-game-publishingmechwarriormechwarrior-onlinemmomwoonlinepcpirahna-gamesWed, 10 Oct 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The War Z closed beta starts on Halloween, pre-orders get in early]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/the-war-z-closed-beta-starts-on-halloween-pre-orders-get-in-ear/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/the-war-z-closed-beta-starts-on-halloween-pre-orders-get-in-ear/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/the-war-z-closed-beta-starts-on-halloween-pre-orders-get-in-ear/#comments The War Z, the upcoming zombie-themed PC MMO, will go into closed beta on October 31, publisher Arktos Entertainment has announced. The game is also now available for pre-order. Three packages are available, each granting access to the beta and offered at a discount until October 20*.

The Survivor package is available for $19.49 and grants access to the beta when it begins on October 31. Meanwhile, the Pioneer package is $29.99, grants access to the beta on October 15, $15 of in-game currency, a special forum badge, one month of map server hosting and 3 guest keys. Finally, there's the Legend package for $49.99, featuring October 15 access, $30 of currency, a forum badge, 6 months of server hosting, 3 guest keys. Legend purchasers will also have their survivor names highlighted on leaderboards and in the game's chat.

After October 20, the pre-order prices jump to $29.99 and $49.99, respectively. The game can be pre-ordered on The War Z website.

*The War Z website states that the discounts only apply until October 17, but Arktos informs Joystiq that the correct date is indeed October 20. The website is being corrected.

JoystiqThe War Z closed beta starts on Halloween, pre-orders get in early originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arktos-entertainmentbetahammerpoint-interactivemmopcPresident2008the-war-zThu, 04 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The War Z makes it easy to tell your own story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/the-war-z-makes-it-easy-to-tell-your-own-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/the-war-z-makes-it-easy-to-tell-your-own-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/the-war-z-makes-it-easy-to-tell-your-own-story/#comments
The War Z will not generate any quests for you. Any quests you wish to participate in will come directly from the community. Maybe somebody will need a bodyguard while they look to scrounge up supplies in a deadly metropolitan center. Maybe someone will pay you to fight to the death in their gladiator pit, set up on a remote farm. Maybe somebody just wants to pay you for a sniper rifle scope.

There are a lot of opportunities for players to come up with their own narrative in The War Z - and that's exactly what developer Hammerpoint Interactive hopes players will do.

Gallery: The War Z

Continue reading The War Z makes it easy to tell your own story

JoystiqThe War Z makes it easy to tell your own story originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arktos-entertainmenthammerpoint-interactivemmopcsergey-titovthe-war-zMon, 24 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Witness Final Fantasy XIV's reborn realm in new trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/witness-final-fantasy-xivs-reborn-realm-in-new-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/witness-final-fantasy-xivs-reborn-realm-in-new-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/08/witness-final-fantasy-xivs-reborn-realm-in-new-trailer/#comments
There is kind of a lot going on in Final Fantasy XIV's reborn realm. Like, some sort of an angry mounted swordsman, and fireworks, and lots of other things that make pretty lights. Square Enix's CG department sure didn't pull any punches this time.

JoystiqWitness Final Fantasy XIV's reborn realm in new trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-realm-reborncgifinal-fantasy-xivmmosquare-enixWed, 08 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Need for Speed World is two years old, have a fancy new car]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/24/need-for-speed-world-is-two-years-old-have-a-fancy-new-car/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/24/need-for-speed-world-is-two-years-old-have-a-fancy-new-car/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/24/need-for-speed-world-is-two-years-old-have-a-fancy-new-car/#comments Need for Speed World is two years old, apparentlyNeed for Speed World, EA's free-to-play racing MMO, is celebrating two years of existence with a new car, double-XP week and the launch of the "free cam mode." The new car, a 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, will be handed out to all players for free. It's like My Sweet Sixteen, but all the guests get fancy cars and the party is for a 2-year-old.

Running today through Friday, July 27, players will earn double XP in every racing event, Team Escape and cop pursuit. Free cam, also available today, allows racers to control the game camera to take photos of their sick rides in action.

Now get out there and raid! Or, race, we guess.

Continue reading Need for Speed World is two years old, have a fancy new car

JoystiqNeed for Speed World is two years old, have a fancy new car originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryEAElectronic-Artsmmoneed-for-speed-worldpcTue, 24 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EGLS to 'modify some parts' of its iOS MMO in wake of Torchlight asset theft accusations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/egls-to-modify-some-parts-of-its-ios-mmo-in-wake-of-torchlight/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/egls-to-modify-some-parts-of-its-ios-mmo-in-wake-of-torchlight/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/egls-to-modify-some-parts-of-its-ios-mmo-in-wake-of-torchlight/#comments Chinese developer Entertainment Game Labs will remove "some parts" of its game, Armed Heroes Online, the company tells Joystiq. Those "parts," it sounds like, are the ones that Runic Games is saying were stolen from its Torchlight franchise. "Players always come first," EGLS said in a statement. "There, we prefer to modify some parts of Armed Heroes Online where have caused those disputes rather than go on arguing. As long as this carves out a way out of angry disputes, it will be definitely worth our efforts," the statement reads.

Despite the alterations coming to AHO, its developer sticks by the game, remaining defiant that any of Runic's Torchlight assets were used in the creation of its iOS MMO. "We want to make clear, if necessary, that we would like to submit the documents, files, and other materials related to the game developing to Apple to prove the originalities of the game and the efforts we devoted into the game developing," the statement says.

Runic Games president Travis Baldree contends that he's already looked through AHO's files, however, and that they're far more damning that EGLS wants to admit. "I also downloaded the app, and you can just unzip them and look at any iPhone app. And there was a sound manifest that listed all the sound files in the game, and they were verbatim all of our sound files, including our own misspellings," Baldree told us in an interview yesterday. "Our technical artist Adam Perin did voices for a sword called 'The Sword of Adam.' And it had goofy little things that he would say when you swung the sword. And those were in there [Armed Heroes Online], even in one of their videos," he said.

For Runic, this solution - should it actually play out - is exactly what Baldree was hoping would happen. "We're really just trying to get the thing pulled down from the App Store and to have them use their own assets. We were a little baffled by their initial response, and we'd be more than happy to talk to them and see what's up," he said. As of right now, Armed Heroes Online isn't available via the iTunes App Store, and it's seemingly been pulled by Apple following Runic's takedown request.

See the full statement from EGLS after the break.

Continue reading EGLS to 'modify some parts' of its iOS MMO in wake of Torchlight asset theft accusations

JoystiqEGLS to 'modify some parts' of its iOS MMO in wake of Torchlight asset theft accusations originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storearmed-heroes-onlinechinaeglsentertainment-game-labsiosipadiphoneitunesitunes-app-storemmomobilerunicrunic-gamestorchlighttravis-baldreeThu, 19 Jul 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Torchlight art found in iOS MMO; MMO dev denies theft against strong evidence]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/torchlight-art-found-in-ios-mmo-mmo-dev-denies-theft-against-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/torchlight-art-found-in-ios-mmo-mmo-dev-denies-theft-against-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/torchlight-art-found-in-ios-mmo-mmo-dev-denies-theft-against-st/#comments Torchlight art found in iOS MMO, MMO dev denies theft against strong evidenceArt assets from Runic Games' Torchlight franchise bear more than a passing resemblance to those used in iOS MMO Armed Heroes Online, from Chinese developer Entertainment Game Labs ("EGLS"). And Runic Games head Travis Baldree is calling foul, taking to Twitter this week to say, "So, wow - this game is releasing on the app store. They wholesale stole most of the assets from Torchlight," and linking to the EGLS game website.

Baldree made the image seen above as well, comparing the two games' art assets from source material he found in YouTube clips of Armed Heroes Online with those of his company's game. Beyond talking, Baldree tells us that Runic "have contacted Apple with a takedown request but haven't heard back yet." The company's goal at the moment is "simply to get the game removed from the App Store until it no longer infringes upon our copyright." It's unclear if representatives from Runic's parent company, Chinese MMO company Perfect World, have been in contact with EGLS separately.

Baldree says Runic "have been unable to directly contact the company," but a rep from EGLS posted on Touch Arcade's forums with a lengthy public statement today. "We can hardly agree with Mr. Travis Baldree who judged that EGLS 'wholesale stole most of the assets from Torchlight!' only based on the similarity between several small monsters. The judgment is simply untenable," the post reads.

It goes on to say that some EGLS employees "are both crazy game fans and ecstatic movie lovers," alleging that the comparisons drawn are nothing more than an accident at best. Bizarrely, the statement then compares Torchlight to WildTangent's PC RPG Fate, as well as Diablo 2 - both games that Runic employees were instrumental in developing.

Armed Heroes Online remains available via iTunes for now, but we don't expect it'll be there for much longer. The game is free-to-play with in-app purchases (read: microtransactions). An EGLS rep didn't respond to request for comment as of publishing.

JoystiqTorchlight art found in iOS MMO; MMO dev denies theft against strong evidence originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jul 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storeapplechinaeglsentertainment-game-labsfree-to-playin-app-purchasesiosipadiphoneitunes-app-storemacmicrosoftmicrotransactionsmmomobilepcperfect-worldrunicrunic-gamesserena-zhangthefttorchlighttravis-baldreexboxTue, 17 Jul 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon announces Game Connect, new free-to-play game service]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/13/amazon-announces-game-connect-new-free-to-play-game-service/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/13/amazon-announces-game-connect-new-free-to-play-game-service/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/13/amazon-announces-game-connect-new-free-to-play-game-service/#comments Amazon is launching a new games service titled Game Connect, not to be confused with its GameCircle service for Kindle Fire. Game Connect has been introduced with the express purpose of helping its users "discover a new category of free-to-play and MMO digital games." Existing Amazon users can link their Game Connect account to unlock rewards, a list of which can be found over here.

The first handful of games included in Amazon's Game Connect service launch are Battlestar Galactica, World of Tanks, Pandora Saga, Stronghold Kingdoms and Super Monday Night Combat. More games will presumably be added as the service grows and develops.

JoystiqAmazon announces Game Connect, new free-to-play game service originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon-game-connectf2pfree-2-playfree-to-playgame-connectmacmmopcsuper-monday-night-combatFri, 13 Jul 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lionhead listing for 'MMO-like title for next generation consoles']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/lionhead-listing-for-mmo-like-title-for-next-generation-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/lionhead-listing-for-mmo-like-title-for-next-generation-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/lionhead-listing-for-mmo-like-title-for-next-generation-console/#comments ImageLionhead's latest job post brings up two salient points:
  • That listing for a multiplayer level designer with "a deep understanding of online multiplayer games" may encompass more than a simple FPS title with online capabilities.
  • Microsoft could be looking to bring MMOs to its console market in a big way.
The most recent want ad, spotted by Superannuation and since removed, described the potential game as an "MMO-like title" and an original IP for the "future generation of platforms." It "will be an RPG-based game with a radical new take on how co-operative and multiplayer gameplay feeds into the experience, while blending online and single-player into one complete experience," the listing read, as reported by MCV.

The title "will have a complex progression system, multiple routes through the campaign and an MMO-like multiplayer experience that will affect the outcome of the player experience, and many other attributes surrounding their profile (such as the environment and the outcome of certain actions)." Superannuation notes that it was labeled as a multithreaded RPG with four-player co-op.

Lionhead's specific use of "MMO-like" and the description's emphasis on a "radical new" genre leaves the game's direction open to interpretation, while nodding at the style of former creative lead Peter Molyneux.

MMOs can be a big gamble, even for an established studio, and especially if its audience is tethered to a single console unfamiliar with the genre as a whole. Good luck, Lionhead. You may need it.

JoystiqLionhead listing for 'MMO-like title for next generation consoles' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectLionheadLionhead-Studiosmicrosoftmmooriginal-iprpgxboxWed, 16 May 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Elder Scrolls Online being developed by ZeniMax Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-elder-scrolls-online-is-a-real-mmo-being-developed-by-zenima/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-elder-scrolls-online-is-a-real-mmo-being-developed-by-zenima/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/the-elder-scrolls-online-is-a-real-mmo-being-developed-by-zenima/#comments ImageThe Elder Scrolls Online was just revealed to be ZeniMax Online's long-rumored MMO. Game Informer's next cover announced the game this morning. The mag says The Elder Scrolls Online will take place across the "entire land of Tamriel," approximately one thousand years before Skyrim's place in time. The story will focus on daedric prince Molag Bal as he attempts to make Tamriel part of "his demonic realm."

The game's director is Matt Firor. "It will be extremely rewarding finally to unveil what we have been developing the last several years," he says. "The entire team is committed to creating the best MMO ever made - and one that is worthy of The Elder Scrolls franchise." The game's July cover reveal will detail a variety of the game's possibilities: soloing, public questing, and a unique new take on player-vs-player, in which the three factions battle over sections of land or a desired position of power.

More will be revealed tomorrow in a "brief teaser trailer" of the game, GI says. We've got our double-horned helm on while we wait, just in case.

Update: Bethesda's PR says the game will launch for both PC and Mac.

JoystiqThe Elder Scrolls Online being developed by ZeniMax Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>macmatt-firormmopcthe-elder-scrolls-onlinezenimaxzenimax-mediazenimax-onlineThu, 03 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios staffing up with MMO vets for Amalur]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/38-studios-staffing-up-with-mmo-vets-for-amalur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/38-studios-staffing-up-with-mmo-vets-for-amalur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/38-studios-staffing-up-with-mmo-vets-for-amalur/#comments Now that Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning is out and available, 38 Studios may be in a position to return to its storied "Project Copernicus." A few recent hires at Curt Schilling's studio make it seem that way. 38 has picked up both John Blakely, who worked on DCUO and Everquest 2, and Mark Hanson, who was involved with the now-extinct Lego Universe Online. Blakely will serve as 38's senior VP of development, while Hanson will be senior VP of operations and business.

Of course, both of those positions are fairly high up on the management chain, so they don't necessarily mean that 38 is right in the midst of Copernicus' main development just yet. But given that Kingdoms is out with solid sales numbers to back it up, it wouldn't be too surprising to see 38 Studios itching to get rolling on its MMO title set in the land we now know as Amalur.

Joystiq38 Studios staffing up with MMO vets for Amalur originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38 studios38Studiosamalurcurt-schillinghireshiringjohn-blakelykingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningmark-hansonmmopcproject-copernicussenior-vpTue, 20 Mar 2012 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic is free to play this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/star-wars-the-old-republic-is-free-to-play-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/star-wars-the-old-republic-is-free-to-play-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/star-wars-the-old-republic-is-free-to-play-this-weekend/#comments Your frugality has paid off: Star Wars: The Old Republic is free to play this weekend. Starting on Thursday at 12:01am CT, you'll be able to create a new character and play up to level 15, and have access to Origin World, Capital World, the Fleet, all Warzones, and your character's first Flashpoint. No trading with other characters, though.

The free weekend comes to a close on Monday at 2am CT, at which point BioWare and EA will freeze your character in carbonite. If you decide you want to purchase the game, you may resume that character.

JoystiqStar Wars: The Old Republic is free to play this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeafree-weekendmmopcStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-Republicweekend-passTue, 13 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic 1.2 update big enough for a trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/this-is-the-star-wars-the-old-republic-1-2-update-video-youre/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/this-is-the-star-wars-the-old-republic-1-2-update-video-youre/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/this-is-the-star-wars-the-old-republic-1-2-update-video-youre/#comments
Well, this seems like bad news for the Novare Coast real estate market.

JoystiqStar Wars: The Old Republic 1.2 update big enough for a trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareealegacymmopcStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-Republicupdate-1.2Wed, 07 Mar 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World paints a different picture of the Illuminati]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/the-secret-world-paints-a-different-picture-of-the-illuminati/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/the-secret-world-paints-a-different-picture-of-the-illuminati/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/the-secret-world-paints-a-different-picture-of-the-illuminati/#comments
You might think of the Illuminati as a secret, world-running empire open to a select few with power and influence. If this Secret World trailer is anything to go by, the group's primary occupations seem to be drinking, smoking and dancing. So, they're Mad Men, essentially, only with guns.

JoystiqThe Secret World paints a different picture of the Illuminati originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eafuncommmopcthe-secret-worldFri, 13 Jan 2012 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Hi-Rez only working on Tribes: Ascend for now, MMO and singleplayer could come later]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/hi-rez-only-working-on-tribes-ascend-for-now-mmo-and-singlepla/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/hi-rez-only-working-on-tribes-ascend-for-now-mmo-and-singlepla/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/hi-rez-only-working-on-tribes-ascend-for-now-mmo-and-singlepla/#comments Hi-Rez Studios had big plans for the Tribes property after picking it up a few years ago, and hoped to revamp the single-player game with Tribes: Ascend, and develop the franchise into a full-fledged MMO. Things have changed since then -- Hi-Rez's COO Todd Harris says, "right now our Tribes dev team is working only on Ascend."

Speaking to PC PowerPlay, Harris described Ascend as borrowing heavily from the earlier, fondly remembers Tribes games. Focusing solely on an action game means Hi-Rez could make sure to "get the movement and physics and combat feeling right." Some settings and weapons from the first game will return, but there will be new content, new weapons, and frequent releases of cosmetic items ("much the way League of Legends does in the MOBA genre," says Harris).

Both the MMO and single-player content are possibilities for the future, Harris adds, but Tribes: Ascend is the focus for now.

JoystiqHi-Rez only working on Tribes: Ascend for now, MMO and singleplayer could come later originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playhi-rezhi-rez-studiosmmopctodd-harristribestribes-ascendThu, 05 Jan 2012 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Buffy and Firefly MMO dev studio closes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/buffy-and-firefly-mmo-dev-studio-closes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/buffy-and-firefly-mmo-dev-studio-closes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/buffy-and-firefly-mmo-dev-studio-closes/#comments The crew of Serenity It was a foregone conclusion that we'd never play the announced Firefly and Buffy the Vampire Slayer MMOs from developer Multiverse, but the closure of the studio makes that all but certain.

The company actually ceased operations in early December, with a post on its website noting the studio closed due to a lack of funding after it was unable to achieve profitability with the Multiverse platform.

The Multiverse platform was used as "proof of concept" for Facebook titles Battle, Team Battle and Battle: Realms at War. The platform was also used for McDonalds and Coca-Cola web games.

Our condolences go out to Browncoats and followers of the Scooby Gang.

JoystiqBuffy and Firefly MMO dev studio closes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buffybuffy-the-vampire-slayercancelledfireflymmoMultiversemultiverse-platformpcWed, 04 Jan 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trion Worlds database hacked, 'no evidence' of credit card info stolen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/trion-worlds-database-hacked-no-evidence-of-credit-card-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/trion-worlds-database-hacked-no-evidence-of-credit-card-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/trion-worlds-database-hacked-no-evidence-of-credit-card-info/#comments We were starting to think we'd make it through the rest of the year without once again worrying about having our social security numbers stolen, Tweeted and written in the sky. How foolish of us! Trion Worlds has announced on its blog it "recently discovered that unauthorized intruders gained access to a Trion Worlds account database," a list which included "user names, encrypted passwords, dates of birth, email addresses, billing addresses, and the first and last four digits and expiration dates of customer credit cards."

Trion added there's no evidence that credit card info was taken, and that the company has "taken further action to strengthen our systems, even as we, with external security experts, continue to research the extent of the unauthorized access." In the meantime, Trion game users will want to change their password, which they'll be prompted to do the next time they try to log in to the company's site, or one of its titles.

We'd also suggest that Trion change its logo, because that open-door-looking letter "I" is starting to seem a tad prophetic.

JoystiqTrion Worlds database hacked, 'no evidence' of credit card info stolen originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mmopcprivacyriftsecuritytriontrion-worldsFri, 23 Dec 2011 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic hits a million players, 28 million hours played]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/star-wars-the-old-republic-hits-a-million-players-28-million-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/star-wars-the-old-republic-hits-a-million-players-28-million-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/star-wars-the-old-republic-hits-a-million-players-28-million-h/#comments EA has announced that Star Wars: The Old Republic has assembled more than a million registered players in its first week officially live, earning it the self-granted title of "fastest growing subscription MMO in history."

A million players is a solid milestone, but EA and BioWare still have some parsecs to travel to make SW:TOR a resounding success: The beta test, don't forget, was able to pick up twice as many players than are currently registered. EA's management expects at least two million players to call the game successful at all, according to previous reports.

EA says that players have logged in more than 28 million game hours (no word on how many hours spent waiting in login queues, of course), and in that time have created 3.8 million characters, split about evenly across Jedi and Sith. More than 2 billion NPCs have been killed in the eight days since launch as well, which is quite the virtual genocide. You can check out the official stats and announcement below.

Continue reading Star Wars: The Old Republic hits a million players, 28 million hours played

JoystiqStar Wars: The Old Republic hits a million players, 28 million hours played originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareealucasartsmilllionmmopcplayersprofitstar-warsStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-RepublicFri, 23 Dec 2011 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic launch doc recounts years of development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-wars-the-old-republic-launch-doc-recounts-years-of-develop/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-wars-the-old-republic-launch-doc-recounts-years-of-develop/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/star-wars-the-old-republic-launch-doc-recounts-years-of-develop/#comments
This week, Star Wars: The Old Republic finally launches after years of development -- and it's those years that are the focus of this eight minute launch documentary. Believe it or not, in eight minutes you can pretty much cover every aspect of a major MMO launch.

JoystiqStar Wars: The Old Republic launch doc recounts years of development originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareealucasartsmmopcStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-RepublicWed, 21 Dec 2011 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare docs explain how to stay true to your roots while expanding massively]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/bioware-docs-explain-how-to-stay-true-to-your-roots-while-massiv/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/bioware-docs-explain-how-to-stay-true-to-your-roots-while-massiv/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/bioware-docs-explain-how-to-stay-true-to-your-roots-while-massiv/#comments With eight (eight!) studios around the globe as of the end of 2011, BioWare label heads Dr. Ray Muzyka and Dr. Greg Zeschuk have kind of a lot going on at any given time. When I spoke with them earlier this week at Times Square's NASDAQ building, though, they were remarkably calm after ringing the financial institution's opening bell (surrounded by and emblazoned in Star Wars accoutrement), and launching the six-years-in-development Star Wars: The Old Republic.

Beyond the aforementioned accomplishments, the doctors' division of EA has been rapidly expanding -- over just the last six months, BioWare has added a Sacramento office, a San Francisco office, and an Ireland office, to say nothing of "BioWare Victory," the studio heading up Command & Conquer: Generals 2. That's a whole lot of people (501 - 1000, approximately, according to LinkedIn)! How do two guys that started out with eight people in a studio apartment manage that kind of expansion without diluting the original values they began with?

BioWare co-founder Ray Muzyka offered an explanation by way of example:
"You're seeing how we're doing that in The Old Republic. We're merging story in in a really seamless way. It doesn't feel tacked on or added, it's actually there from the ground floor. It's actually adding to the experience and increasing that emotional engagement, which, you go back to our vision, that's what it's all about. Building that emotional engagement."
The concept of "emotional engagement" was one that both Muzyka and his long-time business partner Dr. Greg Zeschuk touched on repeatedly during the interview. Muzyka called it a "pillar" of the label's vision, but also emphasized that story -- BioWare's traditional method for engaging players on an emotional level -- isn't the only way to evoke an emotional response from players.

Continue reading BioWare docs explain how to stay true to your roots while expanding massively

JoystiqBioWare docs explain how to stay true to your roots while expanding massively originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-labeleaea-biowareelectronic-artsgreg-zeschukmmonasdaqnew-york-citynycpcray-muzykaStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-RepublicWed, 21 Dec 2011 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[APB Reloaded enjoying success via Steam, coming to store shelves]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/apb-reloaded-enjoying-success-via-steam-coming-to-store-shelves/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/apb-reloaded-enjoying-success-via-steam-coming-to-store-shelves/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/apb-reloaded-enjoying-success-via-steam-coming-to-store-shelves/#comments Realtime Worlds' MMO APB has had a troubled past to say the least, getting shut down in record time after a disastrous launch. But the title was purchased by GamersFirst soon after that with the intention of being reopened as a free-to-play game called APB Reloaded, and it looks like things are going pretty well. Not only has the title appeared in Steam's most played charts already, but GamersFirst now says it has picked up three million new registered users after showing up on the Steam service.

That's quite a turnaround. The original game only boasted about 130,000 registered players, so the current iteration has already picked up that original audience and more. GamersFirst says the game has "quickly amassed a vocal, dedicated community, and they've been instrumental in growing the game and helping better the experience."

And then there's the ultimate rebirth: APB Reloaded is apparently headed back to store shelves at retailers, too, in the form of a $29.99 box with "more than $50 worth of value including unique in-game items." That's pretty impressive for a game that saw a server shutdown in just 90 days or so.

JoystiqAPB Reloaded enjoying success via Steam, coming to store shelves originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apb-reloadedfree-to-playfree-to-play-mmogamersfirstmmopcsteamSat, 17 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars Galaxies says goodbye as Star Wars: The Old Republic launches]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/star-wars-galaxies-says-goodbye-as-star-wars-the-old-republic-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/star-wars-galaxies-says-goodbye-as-star-wars-the-old-republic-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/star-wars-galaxies-says-goodbye-as-star-wars-the-old-republic-l/#comments
Star Wars Galaxies came to a close last night. There can be only one Star Wars MMO on the block, and that's now Star Wars: The Old Republic. That doesn't mean Galaxies didn't go out in style -- we tracked down a pair of end-game videos on YouTube for your viewing pleasure.

Finally, there's also a sappy letter from Star Wars Galaxies' last remaining producer. It's been a crazy eight years, hasn't it? Here's to hoping The Old Republic has as long a run.

[Note: Embedding on the second video has been disabled, so you'll need to click here to watch it.]

JoystiqStar Wars Galaxies says goodbye as Star Wars: The Old Republic launches originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mmopcsoestar-wars-galaxiesstar-wars-galaxies-endgamestar-wars-the-old-republicFri, 16 Dec 2011 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic early access starts today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/star-wars-the-old-republic-early-access-starts-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/star-wars-the-old-republic-early-access-starts-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/13/star-wars-the-old-republic-early-access-starts-today/#comments It's time to put your regimented dragon-killing schedule on hold for a while, replacing it completely with an all new Jedi-killing routine -- early access for Star Wars: The Old Republic opens up today. If you pre-ordered the game through a traditional retailer or virtually through Origin, you'll be able to hop into the game today; assuming you're lucky enough to be a part of one of the waves of entrants BioWare is letting in, periodically, until the game's official December 20 launch.

The game can't allow everyone in all at once, probably because it would crush the servers like the windpipe of a Death Star insubordinate. Persistence should win you your prize, though. Well, persistence, and a pre-order code, and a monthly subscription.

JoystiqStar Wars: The Old Republic early access starts today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareearly-accessmmommorpgonlinepcstar-warsStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-RepublicTue, 13 Dec 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Q? Entertainment reveals Ninety-Nine Nights Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/q-entertainment-reveals-ninety-nine-nights-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/q-entertainment-reveals-ninety-nine-nights-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/q-entertainment-reveals-ninety-nine-nights-online/#comments
It's been a busy year for games, but something is missing. Batman, Assasssin's Creed, Skyrim, sure, those are all great, but what about Ninety-Nine Nights? Q? Entertainment has got you covered, unveiling the 2D PC action MMO we've all been dying to play. Ninety-Nine Nights Online is being developed by UserJoy Technology, and the trailer reveals that it contains both hacking and slashing.

We'd say this one probably won't see a release outside Asia. If you feel like braving lots of Japanese text, however, Siliconera reports that you can sign up for a preview version over at the official site.

JoystiqQ? Entertainment reveals Ninety-Nine Nights Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanmmoninety-nine-nightsninety-nine-nights-onlinepcQ-Entertainmentuserjoy-technologyWed, 07 Dec 2011 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Subscription fees return to Final Fantasy XIV on January 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/subscription-fees-return-to-final-fantasy-xiv-on-january-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/subscription-fees-return-to-final-fantasy-xiv-on-january-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/subscription-fees-return-to-final-fantasy-xiv-on-january-6/#comments Square Enix has announced a small delay related to Final Fantasy XIV, but we don't think it's one you'll be upset about. Back in October, as part of the ambitious plan to revamp the MMO, Square Enix said it would begin charging a subscription fee in late November or early December. That date has been pushed to January 6, allowing you another whole month of ... playing Final Fantasy XIV in its current form. Hmm.

If you want to set up a subscription for your current account, you'll be able to do so starting December 16. Between January 6 and the release of "version 2.0," subscription fees will be discounted to $6.99 per 30 days (with extra savings for longer periods). The "real" subscription fee when version 2 launches will be $9.99 for 30 days.

JoystiqSubscription fees return to Final Fantasy XIV on January 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-14final-fantasy-xivmmopcsquare-enixsubscriptionTue, 06 Dec 2011 13:03:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest 2 going free-to-play (again)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/everquest-2-going-free-to-play-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/everquest-2-going-free-to-play-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/everquest-2-going-free-to-play-again/#comments No, you and you internet browser haven't slipped backwards through time -- though EverQuest 2 already went free-to-play last year (with the somewhat confusing, browser-based EverQuest 2: Extended), the game is going really free-to-play starting December 6. A post on the game's official site clears things up: The offerings of Extended will be folded into the rest of the title, and membership will be broken down into three tiers: Free, Silver and Gold.

Free members get a handful of races, classes, character slots and other utilities, while Silver members ($5.00 or 500 Station Points per month) get ... well, a handful more. These two tiers also have the option to purchase some items (like races and classes) piecemeal. Gold members ($14.99/mo.) get unrestricted access to everything. Check out this handy rubric if you're still confused by all these precious, precious metals.

JoystiqEverQuest 2 going free-to-play (again) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EQ2everquestEverQuest-2free-to-playmmommorpgpcsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentstationWed, 30 Nov 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WoW Patch 4.3 'Hour of Twilight' launches today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/wow-patch-4-3-hour-of-twilight-launches-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/wow-patch-4-3-hour-of-twilight-launches-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/wow-patch-4-3-hour-of-twilight-launches-today/#comments
If you've built up a thick layer of hatred for Deathwing every time his grim visage appears on the login screen for World of Warcraft, your hour of retribution has come. Or rather, your "Hour of Twilight" has come -- that's the name of WoW Patch 4.3, which launches today.

The update, and last major addition for WoW: Cataclysm, adds three new dungeons and a new raid to the title which see your hero traveling through time in an attempt to gather the tools required to take Deathwing down. There are also new, oft-requested features like Armor Transmogrification and Void Storage. Check out the trailer above for a taste of the action, and turn an eye towards WoW Insider for all the juicy patch notes therein.

JoystiqWoW Patch 4.3 'Hour of Twilight' launches today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardCataclysmhour-of-twilightmmommorpgpatchpcupdateworld-of-warcraftWorld-of-Warcraft-CataclysmwowTue, 29 Nov 2011 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Attention 20-something adultolescents: Power Rangers Online is a thing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/20/attention-20-something-adultolescents-power-rangers-online-is-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/20/attention-20-something-adultolescents-power-rangers-online-is-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/20/attention-20-something-adultolescents-power-rangers-online-is-a/#comments
The amount of nostalgic, nigh-shameful glee we have for the Power Rangers series could fill several extended volumes, fully annotated with diagrams and bibliographies and everything. We're even into the obscure pre-Saiban Power Rangers from the 70's, like Battle Fever J (natch) and Himitsu Sentai Gorenger.

We ain't no spring flowers, though, and as the steady march of time takes us ever closer to our graves, so too do the Power Rangers march forward into a new century. Part of that march, it turns out, takes the Mystic Force rangers straight through MMO town: South Korean golfing MMO developer Ntreev Soft is in the process of beta testing Power Rangers Online, a side-scrolling beat-em-up MMO staring our favorite teenagers with attitude.

Much like the SNES Power Rangers games of yore, players start out as normal teens at the beginning of the stage, mightily morphin' into Rangers halfway through each level. Only the Red, Pink and Yellow Mystic Rangers are playable at the moment, however the Mystic Force continuity has at least 7 rangers total to pull from, should more characters be added.

We didn't even have to look that last part up, which should probably worry us beyond all measure. Oh well!

JoystiqAttention 20-something adultolescents: Power Rangers Online is a thing originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 Nov 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>koreaMMOMystic-ForceNtreev-Softpcpower-rangerspower-rangers-onlinesouth-koreasuper-sentaiSun, 20 Nov 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega snaps up Spiral Knights dev Three Rings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/sega-snaps-up-spiral-knights-dev-three-rings/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/sega-snaps-up-spiral-knights-dev-three-rings/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/sega-snaps-up-spiral-knights-dev-three-rings/#comments If you've played ... well, any Sega games, you're probably aware of the company's unhealthy fixation on rings. Sonic can't get enough of the things. Ecco the Dolphin will defy the laws of gravity to pierce them. Today, the publisher further developed its addiction: Sega has announced via a press release that it has acquired San Francisco-based Spiral Knights developer Three Rings.

The company's got plenty of street cred, thanks to its well-received pseudo MMO Puzzle Pirates, and its upcoming online game set in the storied Doctor Who universe. Still, that's probably not why Sega bought them. It's because they have rings, you guys. Three of them. If there were a company called Five Rings, or Ten Thousand Rings, Sega probably would have bought them instead.

JoystiqSega snaps up Spiral Knights dev Three Rings originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitiondoctor-whoindiemergermmopcpuzzle-piratessegaspiral-knightsthree-ringsThu, 17 Nov 2011 17:45:00 EST