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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![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<![CDATA[World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria announced [Update: Now with trailer!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/world-of-warcraft-mists-of-pandaria-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/world-of-warcraft-mists-of-pandaria-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/world-of-warcraft-mists-of-pandaria-announced/#comments
World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria will be the fourth expansion to the game. It was announced today at the opening ceremonies at BlizzCon 2011 in front 26,000 cheering fans. The expansion promises to deliver the next phase in WoW's development, ushering in a new era of quests, raids, PvP, professions, and instances.

The major details:
  • New talent system
  • Pandaren race
  • Pannaria region
  • Monk class
  • 90 level cap raised to 90
  • Dungeon challenge mode
  • PVE Scenarios
  • Pet Battle System
Follow us all day for the next few days as we cover BlizzCon from top to bottom!

Gallery: World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria (10/21/11)

JoystiqWorld of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria announced [Update: Now with trailer!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzcon-2011macmmopcWorld-of-Warcraftworld-of-warcraft-mists-of-pandariawowFri, 21 Oct 2011 14:52:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ's Bilson 'not sure there's room' for Space Marine sequel alongside MMO]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/thqs-bilson-not-sure-theres-room-for-space-marine-sequel-alo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/thqs-bilson-not-sure-theres-room-for-space-marine-sequel-alo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/thqs-bilson-not-sure-theres-room-for-space-marine-sequel-alo/#comments Joystiq got a chance to chat with THQ's Executive Vice President of Core Games, Danny Bilson, at a Saints Row: The Third event earlier this week. He spoke to us about Space Marine's chances for a sequel, and what he plans for THQ this holiday and beyond.

Bilson says Warhammer 40K: Space Marine is "doing okay," and that "40K fans in particular" were pleased. "It's a really good game, it's doing pretty well. In this world, honestly, you have to do exceptionally well to make any money, because the games are so expensive." Bilson hopes the game keeps selling, and expects the impending release of co-op DLC and "more DLC after that" to help maintain its momentum.

He balks at promising a sequel, however, saying that the Space Marine gameplay may bump up against THQ's planned Warhammer 40K MMO, Dark Millennium, in 2013. "We've already announced the Imperium in the MMO as a class you can play," he says, "and if you combine that it's very active, as opposed to the more turn-based stuff. I'm not sure there's room for Space Marine." But there is more coming for you, battle brothers: "We are heavily invested in the 40K universe, so there's more stuff coming in the 40K universe, absolutely. We extended the deal for quite a while."

Continue reading THQ's Bilson 'not sure there's room' for Space Marine sequel alongside MMO

JoystiqTHQ's Bilson 'not sure there's room' for Space Marine sequel alongside MMO originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danny-bilsonmicrosoftmmopcplaystationps3space-marinewarhammer-40kwarhammer-40k-space-marinexboxFri, 14 Oct 2011 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer 40K: Dark Millennium MMO coming March 13 ... 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/warhammer-40k-dark-millennium-mmo-coming-march-13-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/warhammer-40k-dark-millennium-mmo-coming-march-13-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/13/warhammer-40k-dark-millennium-mmo-coming-march-13-2013/#comments THQ has officially announced a date for the long-awaited Warhammer 40K MMO, subtitled Dark Millennium. Don't get too excited, because it isn't due until March 13, 2013. Given all of the games we have yet to see this year, not to mention next year, this Warhammer seems especially distant in the future. Our friends at Massively have a ton of info if you need something to tide you over.

At least THQ is staking an early claim on that "3/13/13" date. May we recommend the picturesque Hinesville, GA -- home of not one, not two, but three signers of the Declaration of Independence -- as a place on which to center the midnight launch proceedings? You'll really like the zip code tie-in.

Update: THQ sends a note that it has not yet officially announced a date for the title, and there is no more mention of 2013 on the official websites for THQ or the game itself. Unmark that calendar, we guess.

JoystiqWarhammer 40K: Dark Millennium MMO coming March 13 ... 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>201331313dark-millenniumhinesvillehinesville-gammopcrelease-datethqwarhammer-40000-dark-millennium-onlineThu, 13 Oct 2011 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix CEO feels Final Fantasy 14 'greatly damaged' brand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/square-enix-ceo-feels-final-fantasy-14-greatly-damaged-brand/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/square-enix-ceo-feels-final-fantasy-14-greatly-damaged-brand/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/square-enix-ceo-feels-final-fantasy-14-greatly-damaged-brand/#comments
Square Enix CEO Yoichi Wada stated at a recent press conference that the Final Fantasy brand had been "greatly damaged" by the launch of Final Fantasy 14.

"We'll continue with our reform work, which basically amounts to fully redoing the game, and hope to revive the FF14 that should have been released," said Wada, according to Andriasang (translating a report on Sponichi).

The launch of Final Fantasy 14 for PC last year, even by a conservative measure, was an unmitigated disaster. A PS3 version never saw the light of day, as the publisher restructured the staff to fix, er, almost everything. Wada apologized for the game at that time and the title still hasn't implemented its intended subscription fee to this day -- and given the freemium trend in MMOs, likely never will.

JoystiqSquare Enix CEO feels Final Fantasy 14 'greatly damaged' brand originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-xivmmooopspcSquare-EnixYoichi-WadaWed, 28 Sep 2011 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Tiny Speck's 'Glitch' MMO launches today [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/tiny-specks-glitch-launches-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/tiny-specks-glitch-launches-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/tiny-specks-glitch-launches-today/#comments Update: if you're having trouble getting in (it's open to all, but there might be a wait), Tiny Speck has set up a "fast pass" site for Joystiq readers here.

Glitch, the cute browser MMO set inside the minds of giant monsters, is officially opening up to the public today at 10AM PDT after a long beta period. The game is the work of Tiny Speck, a new company formed by Stewart Butterfield, Cal Henderson, Eric Costello, and Serguei Mourachov, four co-founders of Flickr. It's a free-to-play game with subscription and virtual currency options, both used for avatar customization items.

Speaking to me in a phone interview yesterday, Butterfield claimed that the game is playable in a casual style, but also accommodates players interested in a more intense experience. "We wanted to have enough depth to capture the imaginations of people who want to go deep," he said. "There are 1000-plus items and 90 skills."

Glitch has potential for emergent gameplay, which he compared to Eve Online, though he was quick to note that it's not as combat-oriented as Eve and more fun to actually play. For example, he related an anecdote from the beta, about players creatively using a "notes" system. "Early on, some of the richer players started a bank, with an alternative currency that was based on notes," Butterfield said. "They just guaranteed the notes with their supply of in-game currency based on the timestamp and the person who created it."

Continue reading Tiny Speck's 'Glitch' MMO launches today [update]

JoystiqTiny Speck's 'Glitch' MMO launches today [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>glitchkeita-takahashimmopcrelease-datestewart-butterfieldtiny-speckTue, 27 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA['BioWare Ireland' opens as 400-person customer service center ... in Ireland]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/bioware-ireland-opens-as-400-person-customer-service-center/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/bioware-ireland-opens-as-400-person-customer-service-center/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/bioware-ireland-opens-as-400-person-customer-service-center/#comments Following up its tax incentive-fueled studio opening in Austin, Texas, EA this morning revealed the opening of a new customer service center in business friendly Galway, Ireland. When fully staffed, "BioWare Ireland" will task approximately 400 employees with making this year's big BioWare release go as smoothly as possible, employing customer service agents primarily. Star Wars: The Old Republic is set to launch December 20 in North America, and December 22 in Europe, so the service center is opening just in time for business.

During a speech at the grand opening, BioWare co-head Ray Muzyka called out to potential employees across all parts of Europe to join BioWare's Ireland team. "We've got a solid base of people here already in Galway ... we're looking for more. From Ireland ... from the rest of Europe to support our German and French customers ... from all over the world. We want you to join us here at BioWare Ireland." Muzyka was no doubt trying to fill out the studio's current staff of 200, which is expected to double at full capacity.

BioWare's Galway service center marks the first installation the company will operate outside of North America.

Joystiq'BioWare Ireland' opens as 400-person customer service center ... in Ireland originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-irelandcustomer-serviceeaea-biowareelectronic-artsgalwaygreg-zeschukirelandmmopcray-muzykaStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-RepublicMon, 26 Sep 2011 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic launching Dec. 20, starts at $15 per month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/star-wars-the-old-republic-launching-dec-20-starts-at-15-per/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/star-wars-the-old-republic-launching-dec-20-starts-at-15-per/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/star-wars-the-old-republic-launching-dec-20-starts-at-15-per/#comments Taste the rainbow After many galactic ages, Electronic Arts has finally announced a release date for Star Wars: The Old Republic, and it's not too far, far away. The long-awaited MMO will officially launch later this year on December 20 in North America and on December 22 in Europe.

In addition to the release date, the game's pricing structure has also been revealed. The subscription options should look very familiar to World of Warcraft vets. After the free month that comes with the game, plans start at $15 for a single month, $42 for three months or $78 for six months. Oh, and if you want early access, there's still time to pre-order, of course.

Thankfully, there's also still time to come up with an excuse for skipping out on your family's holiday plans.

[Thanks to everyone that sent this in!]

JoystiqStar Wars: The Old Republic launching Dec. 20, starts at $15 per month originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Sep 2011 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareelectrocutionmmopcStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-RepublicSat, 24 Sep 2011 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Chocobos, airships, and materia somehow weren't in Final Fantasy 14 yet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/chocobos-airships-and-materia-somehow-werent-in-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/chocobos-airships-and-materia-somehow-werent-in-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/chocobos-airships-and-materia-somehow-werent-in-final-fantasy/#comments
A series staple is being added to Final Fantasy XIV: Chocobos. A year after release, players can now purchase and rent the birds for the purpose of traveling across Eorzea. Three Chocobo stables have opened up in-world, in which you can get your very own Chocobo whistle.

If that's not efficient enough, or Final Fantasy-y enough, you can also now take an airship ride between any of three ports. "Departure and arrival cutscenes will accompany each flight," Square Enix said. "The voyage itself, however, will be over in a matter of seconds." Now that's Final Fantasy. A later update will allow players to roam the decks and view the scenery.

Even materia is returning to the series in the latest update, as a resource crafted from old, well-used equipment. It's as if Square is desperately trading on nostalgia to attract FF7 players to its MMO.

JoystiqChocobos, airships, and materia somehow weren't in Final Fantasy 14 yet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chocobofinal-fantasy-xivmateriammopcsquare-enixupdateFri, 23 Sep 2011 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefall players can have (and kill) in-game pets]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/firefall-players-can-have-and-kill-in-game-pets/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/firefall-players-can-have-and-kill-in-game-pets/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/firefall-players-can-have-and-kill-in-game-pets/#comments Firefall is adding in-game pets for players. The developers of the upcoming free-to-play FPS MMO Firefall have announced a new feature that's sure to make a couple of you squee: There will be in-game pets. Red 5 stopped by Shacknews last week to reveal that players will be able to summon little creatures that follow their avatars around in-game, and they'll also be able to kill the pets of enemies. How that will work isn't quite laid out yet, but CEO Mark Kern suggests that players will be able to buy special ammo that lets them fire on their enemies' little friends.

The shooter types among you may laugh, but part of the appeal of big MMOs like World of Warcraft is the cute little bits of customization that come along with building a big, colorful persistent avatar. And while pet combat doesn't sound like anything more than a little extra fun, we won't ever turn down a little extra fun. Pile it on, please.

JoystiqFirefall players can have (and kill) in-game pets originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 04:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firefallin-gamemark-kernmmopcpetsred5-studiosred5studiosshacknewsTue, 20 Sep 2011 04:50:00 EST<![CDATA[The Old Republic 'Smuggler' trailer shows us the class we'll be playing as]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/the-old-republic-smuggler-trailer-shows-us-the-class-well-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/the-old-republic-smuggler-trailer-shows-us-the-class-well-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/the-old-republic-smuggler-trailer-shows-us-the-class-well-be/#comments
We're sorry to break the news to such honorable professions as Jedi, Bounty Hunter and Trooper in such a public forum, but we will not be playing as you when Star Wars: The Old Republic launches. We will be playing as a Smuggler, because the trailer above makes that class seem hot like fire.

JoystiqThe Old Republic 'Smuggler' trailer shows us the class we'll be playing as originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareealucasartsmmommorpgpcStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-RepublicMon, 12 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wildstar preview: Have it your way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/wildstar-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/wildstar-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/31/wildstar-preview/#comments If I were to ask you how you like to play your MMORPGs, you'd probably describe a perplexing predilection for one of the genre's cookie-cutter classes: "Oh, I'm a Mage-guy, definitely." Though NCSoft and Carbine's recently announced MMO Wildstar will allow you to fill that (or any other) professional archetype, they're taking a broader look at that question, not asking what type of character you prefer to be in-game but what type of player you prefer to be.

The PAX Prime demo of Wildstar showed off some interesting innovations on the MMO formula, like fast-paced combat and an active dodge system that rewards you with bonus XP for your deft avoidance. The most promising aspect of the game, however, is that very core tenet: Wildstar rewards you for playing the game how you choose to play it.

Gallery: WildStar

Continue reading Wildstar preview: Have it your way

JoystiqWildstar preview: Have it your way originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carbine-studiosmmommorpgncsoftpax-prime-2011pcwildstarWed, 31 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Firefall preview: Something for everyone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/firefall-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/firefall-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/firefall-preview/#comments There's a good chance that Firefall is going to be your absolute, undeniable jam. It's just one of those combinations of features and ideas that should apply to at least (but probably more than) one of your sensibilities: It has class-based shooting, customizable loadouts, loot, strategy, a persistent world, character creation and a focus on cooperative, Player vs. Environment gameplay.

Any of those tickle your fancy? They tickle mine. They tickle all of my fancies simultaneously.

Continue reading Firefall preview: Something for everyone

JoystiqFirefall preview: Something for everyone originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firefallfpsmmoonlinepax-prime-2011pcred-5-studiosshooterwebzenMon, 29 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 preview: Common sense]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/guild-wars-2-preview-common-sense/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/guild-wars-2-preview-common-sense/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/guild-wars-2-preview-common-sense/#comments Of the many -- so, so many -- MMOs represented on the PAX Prime 2011 show floor, ArenaNet's long-in-development Guild Wars 2 easily presents the most outside-the-box thinking. Where other entries in the genre tend to look at their contemporaries and attempt to iteratively repair their rough edges, Guild Wars 2 throws out baby, bathwater and tub, starting with a base that's altogether unprecedented.

Take, for instance, this core conceit: Why do other MMOs require you to stand still to use most of your character's abilities? Why not allow them to fire off powers while ducking and dodging through salvos of enemy attacks? Why not let heroes use their powers, regardless of whether or not they're targeting an enemy? Why not put some action in your MMO, or vice versa? ArenaNet seems to have noticed most developers' proclivity for sacrificing streamlined gameplay for staple MMO characteristics, and repeatedly asked that very question: Why?

Continue reading Guild Wars 2 preview: Common sense

JoystiqGuild Wars 2 preview: Common sense originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Aug 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetguild-warsGuild-Wars-2mmommorpgncsoftpax-prime-2011pcSat, 27 Aug 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World opens up about its hybrid pricing model]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/the-secret-world-opens-up-about-its-hybrid-pricing-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/the-secret-world-opens-up-about-its-hybrid-pricing-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/27/the-secret-world-opens-up-about-its-hybrid-pricing-model/#comments The Secret World isn't going to be very secret at this rate -- publisher Funcom announced its MMO will use a traditional subscription structure and an in-game store aspect, as opposed to the trending free-to-play model. Players will be able to buy "convenience items" and cosmetic enhancements in the store, but it won't offer anything to increase power, keeping the world level for all players.

"Character power in The Secret World will be determined by how well you play the game, not how much money you are willing to put into it," Funcom said. Apparently Funcom doesn't know the power of some seriously fierce eyeliner.

JoystiqThe Secret World opens up about its hybrid pricing model originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FuncomMicrotransactionsmmopcthe-secret-worldSat, 27 Aug 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars: The Old Republic supply artificially limited at launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/star-wars-the-old-republic-launch-copies-artificially-limited-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/star-wars-the-old-republic-launch-copies-artificially-limited-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/18/star-wars-the-old-republic-launch-copies-artificially-limited-a/#comments In an attempt to prevent its servers from collapsing under the weight of a million Force-hungry MMO-players, EA will artificially limit the number of copies -- both digital and retail -- of Star Wars: The Old Republic available at launch. An EA representative reportedly revealed the strategy at a Gamescom demo, but didn't divulge any details such as how many copies would be available, or how long it would take for more copies to be released once the quota is met.

We suppose this strategy makes sense, though we can't help but imagine the excuses BioWare and EA are going to have to come up with to explain why their downloads are sold out. "Bits? You want bits? Sorry friend. We're fresh out of those. Bytes too! Sorry about that. The drought's hitting us awful hard. The ... the technodrought."

JoystiqStar Wars: The Old Republic supply artificially limited at launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareealaunchlucasartsmmommorpgpcreleasestar-warsStar-Wars-The-Old-RepublicThe-Old-RepublicThu, 18 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Lego Universe free trial begins today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/psa-lego-universe-free-trial-begins-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/psa-lego-universe-free-trial-begins-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/15/psa-lego-universe-free-trial-begins-today/#comments ] There's no longer a financial barrier blocking your access to Lego Universe. The block-rocking MMO's free-to-play trial offer has opened, allowing players to experience a chunk of the game, including one "property area" to build as you see fit, and two "adventure zones."

If you decide you like the interconnecting world of Lego Universe, you can upgrade to the $10 monthly membership at any time, and open up the rest of the world, comprising five "property worlds" and 15 adventure zones. There's also a Ninjago expansion coming this year for paid users. You wouldn't want to miss that.

Gallery: Lego Universe (Free-to-play)

Continue reading PSA: Lego Universe free trial begins today

JoystiqPSA: Lego Universe free trial begins today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playlego-universemmonetdevilpctrialMon, 15 Aug 2011 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo files patent for 'massively single-playing online games']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/nintendo-files-patent-for-massively-single-playing-online-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/nintendo-files-patent-for-massively-single-playing-online-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/13/nintendo-files-patent-for-massively-single-playing-online-games/#comments Playing games online can be a mixed bag of fantastic and horrible experiences, depending on what you're playing. If you're lucky, the game you're interested in has an active, helpful community of friendly people, eager to help new players become members of the neighborhood. If you're unlucky, however, your online gaming experience may take a decidedly different, far less enjoyable form.

Nintendo, seemingly aware of the perils of interpersonal interaction online, have filed a patent for a "Massively Single-Playing Online Game," which aims to provide all of the benefits of a persistant online world, without any of the drawbacks associated with other people. The general idea is that a player's actions will affect various gameplay mechanics for all other players, much like in traditional MMOs, however the players will never actually interact with each other. A player may build themselves a house in a persistant world, for instance, and while other players can find the house, they cannot find its creator.

The Big N also gave economic examples, wherein a player's actions may increase or decrease the scarcity/value of an item for all players across the board. NPC interaction was also pointed to as a way for players to communicate with each other indirectly, with computer-controlled characters acting as messengers.

It's important to remember that technology companies like Nintendo file patent applications on a fairly regular basis, and that this application's existence doesn't necessarily mean that we'll be seeing this kind of gameplay implemented into anything anytime soon. It's also important to remember that a Pokemon game using this technology would be off the chain.

JoystiqNintendo files patent for 'massively single-playing online games' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsmassive-single-playing-online-gameMMOnintendopatentpatent-applicationpatentswiiSat, 13 Aug 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Secret World goes globe trotting in latest dev diary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/the-secret-world-goes-globe-trotting-in-latest-dev-diary/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/the-secret-world-goes-globe-trotting-in-latest-dev-diary/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/12/the-secret-world-goes-globe-trotting-in-latest-dev-diary/#comments The Secret World - Egypt You'd be forgiven for thinking The Secret World was really "the secret zombie-infested part of New England," as we haven't seen much else thus far. Thankfully, the latest dev diary reveals that whole "world" aspect. From Shambala to Stonehenge, players will amass loads of frequent flier miles.

JoystiqThe Secret World goes globe trotting in latest dev diary originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>funcommmopcthe-secret-worldFri, 12 Aug 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Conan sees 300,000 sign up after free-to-play switch, double revenue in first month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/age-of-conan-sees-300-000-sign-up-after-free-to-play-switch-dou/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/age-of-conan-sees-300-000-sign-up-after-free-to-play-switch-dou/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/11/age-of-conan-sees-300-000-sign-up-after-free-to-play-switch-dou/#comments Age of Conan Like Lord of the Rings Online before it, Age of Conan has sipped from the free-to-play goblet and, oh, it was a good sip. Developer Funcom reports that, since migrating the previous subscription-based game into free-to-play territory last month, Age of Conan: Unchained (the game's new moniker) has seen a spike in users to the tune of 300,000 -- overall, revenues doubled over the last month. That is, like, the total opposite of lamentation for Funcom!

And to celebrate the upcoming movie remake of the original Arnold Schwarzenegger vehicle, Funcom is hard at work on a free movie tie-in content pack called Savage Coast of Turan. It will add new areas, equipment, enemies and charatcers from the upcoming film, which is set to pillage your local cinema on August 19.

Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Age of Conan sees 300,000 sign up after free-to-play switch, double revenue in first month

JoystiqAge of Conan sees 300,000 sign up after free-to-play switch, double revenue in first month originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAge-of-Conan-Hyborian-Adventresage-of-conan-unchainedbusinessfree-to-playfreemiumfuncommmopcsalesThu, 11 Aug 2011 20:20:00 EST