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[PSA: Mythic shutting down some Warhammer Online servers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/psa-mythic-shutting-down-some-warhammer-online-servers/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/psa-mythic-shutting-down-some-warhammer-online-servers/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/09/psa-mythic-shutting-down-some-warhammer-online-servers/#comments Okay now, nobody panic, but Mythic is closing down three servers in Warhammer Online. Specifically, the North American servers Iron Rock and Volkmar and the European server Corroburg will be disabled beginning three weeks from February 9. American players will be offered free transfers to the Gorfang server, while European players will have the option to transfer to Drakenwald. Furthermore, the Gorfang and Drakenwald servers will have the multi-realm ability enabled, which "allows accounts to have both Order and Destruction characters on the server and increases the character limit to 20."

Community coordinator James Nichols notes that the sever closures are being made to "enable players to experience more action during all hours whether fighting in scenarios or Open RvR." Head over to the Warhammer Online site for full details, including instructions for transferring guilds.

JoystiqPSA: Mythic shutting down some Warhammer Online servers originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaMythic-EntertainmentpcWARWarhammer-OnlineWarhammer-Online-Age-of-ReckoningWed, 09 Feb 2011 00:40:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare Mythic takes over Warhammer Online in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/bioware-mythic-takes-over-warhammer-online-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/bioware-mythic-takes-over-warhammer-online-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/08/bioware-mythic-takes-over-warhammer-online-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Previously, the operation of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning in Europe was handled by GOA, a division of France Telecom. Today, EA has announced that BioWare Mythic, the developer behind WAR, will now take over "publishing, operating and subscription service rights" in the region.

During the transition, BioWare Mythic will shut down the European servers for 48 to 72 hours as it works to bring the new servers online. To celebrate the transition, existing and former players will all receive 14 days of free play, while new players will gain the option of installing an Endless Trial mode, which gives players the option to enjoy the trial version of the game for as long as they like. You can check it out for yourself here.

JoystiqBioWare Mythic takes over Warhammer Online in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jul 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-mythiceaendless-trialeuropemmoWARWarhammer-OnlineWarhammer-Online-Age-of-ReckoningThu, 08 Jul 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online 'billing error' results in massively multiplayer overcharge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/09/warhammer-online-billing-error-results-in-overcharge/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/09/warhammer-online-billing-error-results-in-overcharge/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/09/warhammer-online-billing-error-results-in-overcharge/#comments Just like that, we suddenly understand some peoples' stern distaste for subscription-based MMOs. A recent bug in the Warhammer Online billing system charged some players its $14.99 monthly fee dozens of times on their monthly due dates. The amount of the overcharge differs from user to user -- reports on this forum thread average between $200 and $500. One player, who claimed to be repeatedly charged for a $77.94 six-month subscription, was hit with fees totaling $1013.12.

The cause of the error is currently unclear, as is the scope of its impact on the game's subscriber base. EA's billing support department is now in full-on crisis recovery mode, working with each affected player's financial institution to refund the fees within "24-36 hours." Considering that this debacle could have likely led to any number of overdraft fees and bounced rent checks for the over-charged, it could prove quite a costly recovery for EA.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqWarhammer Online 'billing error' results in massively multiplayer overcharge originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Apr 2010 10:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>billbillingbugeaea-mythicElectronic-Artsmmommorpgoverchargingsubscriptionwarhammer-onlineFri, 09 Apr 2010 10:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online endless free trial now instantly upgradeable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/27/warhammer-online-endless-free-trial-now-instantly-upgradeable/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/27/warhammer-online-endless-free-trial-now-instantly-upgradeable/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/27/warhammer-online-endless-free-trial-now-instantly-upgradeable/#comments EA Mythic is making an even stronger push to try to hook trial players on Warhammer Online, allowing them to upgrade their copy of the game without requiring them to visit a tangible, brick-and-mortar retailer. Now, players who partake in the "endless" free trial can access the title's full portfolio of quests, areas, and baddies by simply subscribing to the game -- purchasing the client itself is no longer necessary.

Of course, the retail version of the game comes with a free month-long subscription, so it's not that huge a savings. Still, you now have the option of upgrading your account without interrupting your zealous Realm vs. Realm campaign.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqWarhammer Online endless free trial now instantly upgradeable originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Mar 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-mythicmmommormmorpgsubscriptionwarhammerwarhammer-onlineSat, 27 Mar 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online begins 'reenlistment campaign' with incentives]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/warhammer-online-begins-reenlistment-campaign-with-incentives/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/warhammer-online-begins-reenlistment-campaign-with-incentives/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/warhammer-online-begins-reenlistment-campaign-with-incentives/#comments Okay, former Warhammer Online subscriber. You've had your fun, doing things that don't involve experience grinding or inter-Realm sparring. Now it's time to come back home. Developer Mythic Entertainment has revealed that the MMO has opened its arms up to its first sons and daughters, allowing former players to come back for a free 10-day trial. During this time, trial players can access all of the game's recently added content, and can even pick up three exclusive in-game items.

The offer is live right now, and will run until December 23. If you happened to delete the game from your hard drive in a fit of rage, you can re-download the WAR client from the game's official site.

JoystiqWarhammer Online begins 'reenlistment campaign' with incentives originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsfree-trialmmommorpgmythic-entertainmentWARwarhammer-onlineThu, 17 Dec 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online's free trial becomes endless, caps level at 10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/warhammer-onlines-free-trial-becomes-endless-caps-level-at-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/warhammer-onlines-free-trial-becomes-endless-caps-level-at-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/06/warhammer-onlines-free-trial-becomes-endless-caps-level-at-10/#comments Most MMO players tend to spend significantly more time in their virtual environs than a 10-day free trial could possibly permit -- that's why Mythic Entertainment recently made some drastic changes to its trial program for Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. From now on, folks who demo the game for free will have an unlimited amount of time to try it out -- however, their characters can only reach level 10 before they stop accumulating experience.

Sounds like a wise move on Mythic's part to increase interest in the title, but we're worried that it might create a new breed of Warhammer trial players who get treated like second-class citizens by their subscription-paying counterparts. "Keep walking, ten-capper," they'd say without making eye contact, "we don't take kindly to you folks around here."

JoystiqWarhammer Online's free trial becomes endless, caps level at 10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoeaElectronic-Artsfreemmommorpgmythicmythic-entertainmenttrialwarhammer-onlineFri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online jumps to the Mac realm, free for current subscribers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/warhammer-online-jumps-to-the-mac-realm-free-for-current-subscr/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/warhammer-online-jumps-to-the-mac-realm-free-for-current-subscr/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/warhammer-online-jumps-to-the-mac-realm-free-for-current-subscr/#comments
Though Mythic's Warhammer Online has been fueling the ceaseless Realm vs. Realm skirmish for more than a year on PCs, a new breed of gamer is about to gain access to the MMO: The guy whose computer is way cooler than yours.

According to a recent Mythic Entertainment press release, the MMO is now available on the Mac platform, and can be digitally purchased from GameTreeOnline for $19.95. Current subscribers to the PC version of the game can get the Mac version for free on the official WAR site. If you're apprehensive about using your sleek multimedia machine to play video games, you can also download a free, 10-day trial of the game. You might just enjoy it as much as you enjoy belittling John Hodgman.

JoystiqWarhammer Online jumps to the Mac realm, free for current subscribers originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 22:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-Artsmacmmommorpgmythic-entertainmentwarhammer-onlineWed, 28 Oct 2009 22:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online coming to Mac on Oct. 10, beta playable now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/30/warhammer-online-coming-to-mac-on-oct-10-beta-playable-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/30/warhammer-online-coming-to-mac-on-oct-10-beta-playable-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/30/warhammer-online-coming-to-mac-on-oct-10-beta-playable-now/#comments
EA Mythic has chosen the Apple as a healthy alternative to the crazy Warhammer Online cake we told you about last month. By which we mean the developer's fantasy MMO is coming to the Mac -- on October 10, to be exact. That's when the game -- which uses TransGaming's Cider technology to run on OS X -- officially hits, but anyone who has an existing WAR account (or wants to sign up for a 10-day "beta trial") can download the Mac beta client and start playing right now.

Mac players will be given two special titles and an exclusive in-game trophy (an apple with the WAR logo -- how totally unexpected!) when the game leaves beta.

JoystiqWarhammer Online coming to Mac on Oct. 10, beta playable now originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsmmomythic-entertainmentwarhammer-onlineWed, 30 Sep 2009 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer cake bites into Food Network]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/warhammer-cake-bites-into-food-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/warhammer-cake-bites-into-food-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/warhammer-cake-bites-into-food-network/#comments
A post about a game-related cake can only mean one thing, right? It's a slow news day. Normally, we would agree, but this one is special for a couple of reasons. First of all, Joystiq was actually contacted by a PR company about this cake, so we're guessing it must be a slow PR day, too. Second, this particular cake pretty much leaves all others in the dust.

Modeled after a squig and created for Warhammer Online's Baltimore Games Day booth, the cake is to be featured on Food Network's Ace of Cakes this Thursday, August 27. According to chef Duff Goldman, it's the best cake ever made on the show. Goldman also contributed to the world of strange size comparisons, noting that the cake is "about the size of large sheepdog." Frankly, the cake looks like it could eat a large sheepdog.

Only one question: How do you cut it?

JoystiqWarhammer cake bites into Food Network originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cakeculturesquigswarhammerwarhammer-onlineWed, 26 Aug 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mark Jacobs explains departure from Mythic and EA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/mark-jacobs-explains-departure-from-mythic-and-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/mark-jacobs-explains-departure-from-mythic-and-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/mark-jacobs-explains-departure-from-mythic-and-ea/#comments
Mark Jacobs' unforeseen exit from Warhammer Online developer Mythic, a departure made known during the revelation of the BioWare/Mythic merger, left many fans and colleagues stunned and confused. In a lengthy post on his personal blog, Jacobs explained the reasoning for his evacuation -- he actually left the company early in May, when EA informed him that "they wanted to make some changes within the Games Label." Since that day, he's been out of contact from the rest of the Mythic team.

However, he's not ready to talk smack about the gaming industry juggernaut that forced the changes upon his studio -- Jacobs explained, "Over my 23 years of making games professionally I have refrained from attacking the competition, former and/or current partners, other game developers," and so on. You're a stronger man than us, Mr. Jacobs.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqMark Jacobs explains departure from Mythic and EA originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaElectronic-Artsmark-jacobsmmomythicquitwarhammer-onlineFri, 26 Jun 2009 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic and BioWare rolled into one, Mythic's Mark Jacobs departs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/mythic-and-bioware-rolled-into-one-mythics-mark-jacobs-departs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/mythic-and-bioware-rolled-into-one-mythics-mark-jacobs-departs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/mythic-and-bioware-rolled-into-one-mythics-mark-jacobs-departs/#comments
EA is mushing up Mythic and BioWare into one team led by BioWare's General Manager, Ray Muzyka. The new "RPG/MMO studio group" will have BioWare's Greg Zeschuk as the "group creative officer." Mythic's General Manager, Mark Jacobs, who oversaw the less-than-successful Warhammer Online, has apparently been shown the door. Rob Denton, who was the chief operating officer at Mythic, will now become general manager and report to Muzyka.

Upon contacting EA, BioWare and Mythic, we were informed that a formal announcement would be made later in the day. We'll update as we hear more.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqMythic and BioWare rolled into one, Mythic's Mark Jacobs departs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebusinesseaelectronic-artsmarc-jacobsmythicmythic-entertainmentwarhammer-onlineWed, 24 Jun 2009 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online recruitment bonuses to include in-game items]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/warhammer-online-recruitment-bonuses-to-include-in-game-items/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/warhammer-online-recruitment-bonuses-to-include-in-game-items/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/warhammer-online-recruitment-bonuses-to-include-in-game-items/#comments
There's a battle of epic proportions beings waged -- for MMO memberships. EA Mythic has launched a new salvo of recruitment perks in hopes of bringing more bodies over to its side, and they go beyond the usual "refer a friend, get 30 days free" variety.

Starting today, a new tiered rewards system is rolling out for those who bring their friends into the ranks of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. Bring in one friend, you get the usual 30 day account credit. Another? Voila, an "exclusive in-game pet" and a month of playtime.

Refer four new players and you'll get either the "Rod of Service" or "Collar of Servitude," exclusive items that grant a 5% experience and renown bonus to all party members. After that ... just more free playtime. Though, if you stay until the very end, we hear you get a toaster.

JoystiqWarhammer Online recruitment bonuses to include in-game items originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 16:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-mythicelectronic-artsmythicwarhammer-onlineMon, 09 Mar 2009 16:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic talks Warhammer Online's Land of the Dead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/mythic-talks-warhammer-onlines-land-of-the-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/mythic-talks-warhammer-onlines-land-of-the-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/06/mythic-talks-warhammer-onlines-land-of-the-dead/#comments
Last week, Mythic unleashed info regarding several "live events" for its MMO, Warhammer Online. One of these live events is titled Land of the Dead, a zone that features new public quests, instances, items and a pyramid housing the Tomb King (the dungeon's focal point). With the event set for a June release, we'd thought Mythic told us everything it possibly could about the upcoming expansion. Well, not the case, as Jeff Hickman and creative director Paul Barnett revealed some new details to the folks at Eurogamer.

We now know that the Land of the Dead will include content from level 25 onto endgame raiding and that the "Land" mentioned in the title is a place where the Order and Destruction factions constantly wage war. Once in, players can find themselves under attack by a rival faction at any time, even when in an instance. Jeff explains that the Land of the Dead will include two areas: The Necropolis and the Tomb of the Vulture Lord, and that since it's RVR-gated, each faction must fight for ownership of the dungeon. He fully expects the dungeon "to change hands nightly," so if you're in there raiding and a different faction gains ownership, you could suddenly find yourself under attack. This place isn't for rookies, however, as Jeff emphasizes this really is for levels 25 and up and "designed to supplement our end game content after Lost Vale."

Before the zone is opened to the public in June, Mythic will hold a race allowing one of the factions early access to the zone for a short while before release.

JoystiqMythic talks Warhammer Online's Land of the Dead originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Feb 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-Artsland-of-the-deadmmomythicpcwarhammerwarhammer-onlineFri, 06 Feb 2009 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online reaches 300,000 subscribers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/warhammer-online-reaches-300-000-subscribers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/warhammer-online-reaches-300-000-subscribers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/warhammer-online-reaches-300-000-subscribers/#comments
When that bevy of new content goes live for Warhammer Online later this month, there could be more than 300,000 fans around to enjoy it. That's the word from our sister site Massively, which reports that developer Mythic Entertainment could now boast nearly a third of a million accounts for the game.

That said, let's put the numbers in perspective: If all of WAR's subscribers were a classroom of 30 students, and all World of Warcraft's subscribers were represented by the other students at the school, then there wouldn't be a bully without wedgie arthritis or an unsold tube of acne cream for miles. (Thanks, representative math!)

JoystiqWarhammer Online reaches 300,000 subscribers originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 19:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmmomythic-entertainmentpcwarwarhammer-onlinewowWed, 04 Feb 2009 19:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: More layoffs at Mythic, senior designers affected [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/rumor-more-layoffs-at-mythic-senior-designers-affected/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/rumor-more-layoffs-at-mythic-senior-designers-affected/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/rumor-more-layoffs-at-mythic-senior-designers-affected/#comments
Joystiq has learned from several well-placed sources that a second round -- a much more serious round -- of layoffs has struck Mythic Entertainment. These cuts go further and deeper than the last round, which saw several members of the support staff let go. Current estimates indicate that between 60 and 130 people have been let go. These layoffs most certainly affect the development staff, and we've been told extend even to the ranks of senior designers. These rumored layoffs come less than a week after the announcement of a full-scale live event expansion for Warhammer Online.

We've contacted EA for a statement and are awaiting a response. The publisher stated yesterday that it had increased its number of planned layoffs. If you're one of those who Mythic let go, please feel free to contact us.

Update: We've placed EA's statement after the break.

[Thanks to Massively for the assist.]

Continue reading Rumor: More layoffs at Mythic, senior designers affected [update]

JoystiqRumor: More layoffs at Mythic, senior designers affected [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmythicmythic-entertainmentwarhammer-onlineWed, 04 Feb 2009 12:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic announces 'live expansion' for Warhammer Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/mythic-announces-live-expansion-for-warhammer-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/mythic-announces-live-expansion-for-warhammer-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/mythic-announces-live-expansion-for-warhammer-online/#commentsFiled under: ,


Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning is getting its first major booster shot just six months after its initial launch. Titled A Call to Arms, the changes will come to the game in the form of a number of in-game events held over the course of a few months -- the devs are calling it a "live expansion." Our ninja-looting sister site Massively has all the details about the upcoming events as well as an in-depth interview with WAR executive producer Jeff Hickman, but here's a basic breakdown of the events, and the additions they'll bring:
  • Call to Arms: Bitter Rivals (Late Feb.) -- The Bitter Rivals event features quests, tasks and RvR activities which will allow players to unlock the once-canceled Orc Choppa and Dwarf Slayer classes. Players who don't participate in the events will unlock the two classes a week later.
  • Call to Arms: Beyond the Sands (April) and Rise of the Tomb Kings (May) -- Hickman didn't share many details about these two events, only explaining that they would eventually lead up to the launch of ...
  • The Land of the Dead (June) -- An internal dungeon (with accompanying external zone) which realms will compete to control. It will feature new public quests, instances, items and a pyramid which houses the Tomb King; the dungeon's focal point which Hickman promises will incite "crazy epic adventures."

JoystiqMythic announces 'live expansion' for Warhammer Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-call-to-armsexpansionland-of-the-deadmmomythicPCwarwarhammer-onlineThu, 29 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Mythic layoffs affect QA, customer support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/rumor-mythic-layoffs-affect-qa-customer-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/rumor-mythic-layoffs-affect-qa-customer-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/rumor-mythic-layoffs-affect-qa-customer-support/#commentsFiled under: ,


On Friday, January 16th, we heard through the tubes that layoffs had struck at EA's Mythic Entertainment, currently riding high acceptably with Warhammer Online. Here's what we were told: 21 customer service employees, half of QA and all of the playtest group were let go. We followed up with EA for a statement regarding the matter.

EA's corporate communications informed us that the publisher already announced a "cost-cutting initiative that includes facility closures and a headcount reduction," impacting about 10% of employees. The company doesn't plan to make any further announcements outside of its scheduled earnings report and can't give particular information about facilities.

Specific questions about the status and future of Warhammer Online were not answered. All the best to the EA employees who still have their jobs -- we'll try to get an EA butcher's bill together if we learn more.

JoystiqRumor: Mythic layoffs affect QA, customer support originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-mythicelectronic-artslayoffsmythic-entertainmentwarhammer-onlineMon, 19 Jan 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[EA games roll onto Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/ea-games-roll-onto-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/ea-games-roll-onto-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/ea-games-roll-onto-steam/#commentsFiled under:


EA has accepted the warm embrace of Steam and will begin using the digital distribution service. Following reports that Spore was crawling out of the primordial ooze to Steam, Valve announced today that several of the latest EA titles are available now, with many more coming over the next couple weeks.

Available now:
  • Spore
  • Spore Creepy & Cute Parts Pack
  • Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning
  • Mass Effect
  • Need for Speed Undercover
  • EA Sports' FIFA Manager 2009
Coming Soon:
  • Mirror's Edge
  • Red Alert 3
  • Dead Space
Sister site Big Download contacted EA to find out if older PC games would become available, but the publisher wouldn't comment. Also, in case you're wondering, EA games on Steam apparently don't install or use third-party DRM set-ups. According to Valve "the only DRM it uses is Steam itself."

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqEA games roll onto Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>command-and-conquer-red-alert-3dead-spaceeaElectronic-Artsmass-effectmirrors-edgeneed-for-speedneed-for-speed-undercoverPCred-alert-3sporesteamwarhammer-onlineFri, 19 Dec 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online patch 1.1a now active]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/warhammer-online-patch-1-1a-now-active/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/warhammer-online-patch-1-1a-now-active/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/warhammer-online-patch-1-1a-now-active/#commentsFiled under: ,


It may be nothing but a number to you, but to fans of Warhammer Online, patch 1.1a is the sickest, illest patch to come along since Game Update 1.0.6. Just how dope could one patch, which just went live in game, be? How about new careers? How about armor set improvements? Still nothing? Well how about one public quest in each chapter of Tier 1 being easier? How about that business?

Our friends at Massively have all the gruesome details if you're still not convinced of 1.1a's freshness.

JoystiqWarhammer Online patch 1.1a now active originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mythicpatchesPCwarwarhammer-onlineThu, 11 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic delaying work on Warhammer expansion to improve live game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/07/mythic-delaying-work-on-warhammer-expansion-to-improve-live-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/07/mythic-delaying-work-on-warhammer-expansion-to-improve-live-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/07/mythic-delaying-work-on-warhammer-expansion-to-improve-live-game/#commentsFiled under: ,


As the recently released expansion for World of Warcraft clearly displayed with its mind-boggling sales figures, add-ons for MMOs (particularly ones with a large player base) can be lucrative undertakings. Despite this fact, Mythic developer Mark Jacobs recently issued a surprising statement on a Warhammer Online forum thread in which commenters were discussing features they'd like to see in the title's first expansion. According to Jacobs, Mythic won't be developing a WAR expansion until the kinks have been worked out of the core game.

Jacobs explained Mythic's reasoning, stating that they have no interest in "pushing an XPack out the door at the expense of WAR." While this may have come as a disappointment to the posters on the thread in question, we're sure the game's player base is appreciative of Mythic's continuing siege on gameplay snafus.

JoystiqMythic delaying work on Warhammer expansion to improve live game originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expansionmark-jacobsmmomythicPCwarhammer-onlineSun, 07 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively week in Review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/massively-week-in-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Joystiq's sister site Massively.com has all the news you'll need about MMOs. Here's the best, brightest, and most interesting stuff from the last week, all in one convenient place for your MMO minute.
EA licenses Dungeon Keeper MMO, for China
Electronic Arts has licensed out the Dungeon Keeper property as an MMO to Chinese-based developer NetDragon Websoft with the intent to eventually bring it overseas.
Warhammer Online 1.0.6 patch adds new classes, tidal wave of updates
Today, Mythic brings us Black Guards and Knights of the Blazing Sun! For those who didn't finish the full Heavy Metal event, don't worry, the classes will become available to everyone next week.
DC Universe probably coming early 2010/late 2009, says comics writer
Most intriguing was his up-front information on the game's launch window. According to Johns, the developers are aiming to release the game in "early 2010, it could be late 2009." Read on into the brief interview for the goods.
Richard Bartle responds to "torture quest" issue
A few days ago we ran a report on Richard Bartle's take on a torture quest in World of Warcraft, the Art of Persuasion. Since then, the discussion has exploded and some have taken Bartle's quotes out of context. Because of this, Bartle has created a follow-up post to clarify some of the points that may have been misinterpreted.
NCsoft clarifies its rationale for closing Tabula Rasa
Last week we spoke very briefly with NCsoft's Director of Public Relations David Swofford about the company's decision to close Tabula Rasa. He reiterated the basic statement we heard from several sources surrounding the call: this was all about the bottom line.

Continue reading Massively week in Review

JoystiqMassively week in Review originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-universe-onlinedungeon-keeperfeaturedmassivelymassively-week-in-reviewPCtabula-rasawarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftWed, 03 Dec 2008 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Key Warhammer Online system seems to be random]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/key-warhammer-online-system-seems-to-be-random/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/key-warhammer-online-system-seems-to-be-random/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/26/key-warhammer-online-system-seems-to-be-random/#commentsFiled under: ,


We know that this is only going to interest a small portion of you, but if you're part of the Warhammer Online fan base, it's captivating stuff. When players in WAR finish a Public Quest, the loot they get is partially dependent on their "Contribution" rating, which supposedly credits them for the amount of damage and healing they did during the quest.

According to the tests of some players though, that number is random, applied when the player enters a zone, and remains stagnant until they leave it or log off. This has been kicking around for a couple of days and Mythic has not, as of yet, leaped to its own defense. We'll let you know when they speak up.

[Via Massively]

JoystiqKey Warhammer Online system seems to be random originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Nov 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-ArtsmythicPCwarwarhammer-onlineWed, 26 Nov 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively week in Review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/massively-week-in-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Joystiq's sister site Massively.com has all the news you'll need about MMOs. Here's the best, brightest, and most interesting stuff from the last week, all in one convenient place for your MMO minute.
Free Realms site relaunches with beta registration, videos, and more!
Free Realms throws together a AAA-quality teen-aimed fantasy MMO experience together with free-to-play and microtransactional economics. An ambitious and unique undertaking, to be sure, from a fairly traditional company.
Ask Massively: Wrath vs All Comers
Dear Massively, I am SO SICK of all of the coverage of Wrath of the Lich King! I demand that someone at Massively write about something that isn't World of Warcraft related this week. Non-WoW players aren't interested in an expansion for a game that they don't even play. Someone throw me a freakin' bone here!
Three Rings officially launches Whirled project
Whirled, an ambitious web/virtual world hybrid from Three Rings, launched into Beta early this year. We were incredibly impressed with the project even back then, bouncing pieces of tofu or not.
Lich King begins assault on Azeroth, starting with Orgrimmar
World of Warcraft players are experiencing a world event leading up to the launch of Wrath of the Lich King. No, it's not another invasion of flesh-craving zombies -- but it's just as cool.
Warhammer Online 1.0.5 patch notes live, Public Test server opened
Over on the official site for Warhammer Online, patch notes are now available for the latest big update. Patch 1.0.5 is not only be a nice big refresh for the game, but will also be the first which players can extensively test on a Beta realm with copied characters beforehand.

Continue reading Massively week in Review

JoystiqMassively week in Review originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredfree-realmsmassivelymassively-week-in-reviewPCthree-ringswarhammer-onlinewhirledworld-of-warcraftwrath-of-the-lich-kingTue, 11 Nov 2008 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Want to leave WoW for Conan or Warhammer? Good luck!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/want-to-leave-wow-for-conan-or-warhammer-good-luck/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/want-to-leave-wow-for-conan-or-warhammer-good-luck/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/want-to-leave-wow-for-conan-or-warhammer-good-luck/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Despite his rather stoic delivery during an Activision Blizzard conference call earlier today, Blizzard's Mike Morhaime undoubtedly took some thrill reciting the following statistics relating to players trying to leave World of Warcraft for the competition: Of the players who cited Funcom's Age of Conan as their reason for leaving WoW, a whopping 68% returned to Azeroth; of the players who cited Warhammer: Age of Reckoning as the impetus behind their departure, a less overwhelming (but similarly impressive) 46% of players ultimately leapt right back into Blizzard's no-doubt strategically receptive embrace.

So, what's the takeaway from this tale? Like broadband internet, hardcore drugs, or those 24-hour wicker stores, World of Warcraft is tough to stay away from once you've gotten a taste. And with Blizzard on the cusp of rolling out its latest and greatest expansion in Wrath of the Lich King, we're pretty certain there are plenty of cold-turkeyers getting the shakes just thinking about it.

JoystiqWant to leave WoW for Conan or Warhammer? Good luck! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activision-BlizzardAge-of-ConanMacPCWarhammer-OnlineWorld-of-WarcraftWed, 05 Nov 2008 21:26:00 EST<![CDATA[EA loses $310 million in Q209, 6% of employees being let go]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/ea-loses-310-million-in-q209-6-of-employees-being-let-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/ea-loses-310-million-in-q209-6-of-employees-being-let-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/ea-loses-310-million-in-q209-6-of-employees-being-let-go/#commentsFiled under:


Electronic Arts has revealed its second quarter fiscal results (ending Sept. 30) ... and things aren't pretty. The company lost $310 million in the quarter, another big hit following Q1's $95 million loss. Highlights from the quarter were the sales of Madden NFL 09 (4.5 million sold), Spore (2 million sold) and Warhammer Online (1.2 million sold).

Unfortunately, EA's continuing hard times will impact its employees. The company plans to let go of 6% of its work force, which amounts to about 600 jobs. The next two quarters are when EA normally really starts bringing in the cash -- not that it'll mean much to those who'll be unemployed soon.

[Via GameDaily]

JoystiqEA loses $310 million in Q209, 6% of employees being let go originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportselectronic-artsmadden-09q209sporewarhammer-onlineThu, 30 Oct 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively week in Review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/massively-week-in-review/#comments Joystiq's sister site Massively.com has all the news you'll need about MMOs. Here's the best, brightest, and most interesting stuff from the last week, all in one convenient place for your MMO minute.
Star Wars MMO announced as The Old Republic
We've waited for it for a long time, we knew it was coming: BioWare has announced the Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic-inspired MMO at last: the title is Star Wars: The Old Republic! Commence rejoicing with Ewoks and Gungans in the streets!
WAR has only just begun to compete with WoW, declares Mark Jacobs
If you've been following this particular exchange you'll know the score, but let's recap: Blizzard's Jeff Kaplan just like turned around and said some stuff about Warhammer Online, about how he wasn't even in the Beta and stuff, and Mark Jacobs was like whoa, and he totally turned around and said some stuff about World of Warcraft, and now Mark Jacobs is all, like, dude, bring it, and everybody's like, ohmygawd, it is so on.
Blizzard: Next MMO won't be WoW 2
Go ahead a strike the possibility of a World of Warcraft 2 off your list of possible next-gen Blizzard MMOs because it's officially not happening. In an interview with Wired, Blizzard's recently talkative Mike Morhaime flat out said that their next MMO project isn't a sequel to their first. Of course, he wouldn't divulge exactly what it was either or this would be an entirely different sort of news post.
Massively in Metropolis: Making friends with Superman
If you blow off Superman by ignoring his pleas for help, he'll be cranky at you. Meanwhile, Batman will be spending his time just waiting for you to turn on him and his family ... poised to take you down. Some discussion of quests with personality, plus exploration of the DCUO faction system called 'causes' below the cut!
State of the Game reveals Blazing Sun Knights, Black Guards coming to WAR
It's been a full month since the launch of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning, and general manager for Mythic Entertainment Mark Jacobs has now offered up the 'first annual' State of the Game address to players.

Continue reading Massively week in Review

JoystiqMassively week in Review originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredmassivelymassively-week-in-reviewswtorwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftTue, 21 Oct 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online getting two new tank classes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/warhammer-online-getting-two-new-tank-classes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/warhammer-online-getting-two-new-tank-classes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/warhammer-online-getting-two-new-tank-classes/#commentsFiled under: ,


Warhammer Online players will soon have to make room in their groups (and their hearts) for two new tank classes: Empire's Knights of the Blazing Sun and the Dark Elven Black Guards. If you're familiar with the game, the fact that those are similar to the Ironbreaker and Chosen respectively will mean something to you. If you're not familiar with the game ... well, why are you still reading this?

There's no firm date set for the new additions, but our friends at Massively tell us that EA and Mythic are aiming for December. Oh, and you can put your gold coins away, the additions will be free of charge.

JoystiqWarhammer Online getting two new tank classes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsPCwarwarhammer-onlineFri, 17 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online runs fine on new MacBook 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/warhammer-online-runs-fine-on-new-macbook-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/warhammer-online-runs-fine-on-new-macbook-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/17/warhammer-online-runs-fine-on-new-macbook-2008/#commentsFiled under: ,


Unless a blindfold, a bucket of water and a whole lot of bobbing is involved, it's rare to think "Apple" when you're talking about games. But after some tentative tests with a new 2.4Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo MacBook on one title, Obsessable is optimistic. The site managed to get Warhammer Online up and running in XP via Boot Camp, and the results were impressive, with no graphical hang-ups and only a little bit of installation trouble.

OK, so it's not exactly Alienware and WAR isn't exactly Crysis. But it's definitely a step in the right direction. If you need to see Apple and gaming fused with your own eyes, there are a couple of videos right here.

JoystiqWarhammer Online runs fine on new MacBook 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleMacmacbookwarhammer-onlineFri, 17 Oct 2008 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Massively week in Review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/massively-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/massively-week-in-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Joystiq's sister site Massively.com has all the news you'll need about MMOs. Here's the best, brightest, and most interesting stuff from the last week, all in one convenient place for your MMO minute.
Warhammer Online's party hits 750,000 players
It seems like the forces of Order and Destruction have been busy recruiting, because Gamasutra is reporting that Warhammer Online is now partying hard at 750,000 subscribers strong.
Champions Online announces Closed Beta signups
Cryptic Studios has just announced that players can now sign up for a chance to participate in the first Closed Beta of their forthcoming superhero MMO, Champions Online, with the Beta beginning in mid-November 2008. Applications can be made at the official website. The Beta is for PC only.
Mines of Moria gets a November 18th release date
Mines of Moria, the first expansion for Lord of the Rings Online, has been given a release date of November 18th for both the NA and EU today. That means we're only about a month away from ten new levels, two new classes, legendary weapons, angry Balrogs and the under-mountain Dwarf kingdom of Khazad-dum.
Massively in Metropolis: DC Universe Online goes beyond questing
The folks at SOE Austin are looking to change the playing field fairly substantially with their superhero MMO title. In fact, in a number of ways they're looking to re-examine a lot of the basic elements we think of as part and parcel with the MMO package. One great example is the concept of questing.

Continue reading Massively week in Review

JoystiqMassively week in Review originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champions-onlinedc-universe-onlinedcuofeaturedlord-of-the-rings-onlinemassivelymassively-week-in-reviewmines-of-moriaPCwarwarhammer-onlineTue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Interview: Jeff Hickman on managing a successful WAR]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/joystiq-interview-jeff-hickman-on-war/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/joystiq-interview-jeff-hickman-on-war/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/25/joystiq-interview-jeff-hickman-on-war/#commentsFiled under: , ,


When the Joystiq Network last spoke with Warhammer Online executive producer Jeff Hickman, the experience left us rolling on the floor in laughter. During a guest appearance on the Big Download podcast, Hickman and company were noticeably tired from a tour in Leipzig and PAX promoting the massively multiplayer title, and decided to kick back with a few drinks and have fun.

While still entertaining, this time it's all business. Today, signifying Warhammer Online's one-week retail anniversary, Hickman returns to discuss the launch, future add-on content and address some of the issues with the game.

Listen to the entire interview now or jump in if you like your interviews in ye olde style wall-of-text format. We're all about options here.


[MP3] Download this interview in MP3 format

Gallery: Warhammer Online

Continue reading Joystiq Interview: Jeff Hickman on managing a successful WAR

JoystiqJoystiq Interview: Jeff Hickman on managing a successful WAR originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electronic-artsinterviewjeff-hickmanjoystiqfeaturesmythic-entertainmentPCwarhammer-onlineThu, 25 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[What's the difference between WAR and WoW?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/whats-the-difference-between-war-and-wow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/whats-the-difference-between-war-and-wow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/whats-the-difference-between-war-and-wow/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Despite appearances of similarities, Warhammer Online and World of Warcraft are very different games. Looking at screenshots and videos will only tell you so much, because it's under the hood where you'll find the differences. That's where this handy guide comes into play. It's here to explain why certain quests in WAR are considered "public" and what "instances" are really all about. Unlike our previous guide, this is for the total MMO newb.

The MMO genre has been slow to evolve. A primary reason being that games take a long time to come to market. So what's so special about these two games that you'd actually want to know the differences between them? Click on through to find out.

Gallery: What's the difference between WAR and WoW?

Warhammer Online PvEWarhammer Online PvE, cont.World of Warcraft PvEWorld of Warcraft PvE, cont.Warhammer Online PvP

JoystiqWhat's the difference between WAR and WoW? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardeaelectronic-artsjoystiqfeaturesmassivelymythicwarwarcraftwarhammerwarhammer-onlineworld-of-warcraftwowThu, 11 Sep 2008 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online, through the eyes of a WoW player]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/warhammer-online-through-the-eyes-of-a-wow-player/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/warhammer-online-through-the-eyes-of-a-wow-player/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/warhammer-online-through-the-eyes-of-a-wow-player/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sure, it may not be poised to rival World of Warcraft, but Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning is attracting the same audience. Given WoW's install base rivals that of medium-sized nation-states, it serves as a rather handy metric for comparing all other MMOs.

Our friends at Massively have done just that (as they have previously with Age of Conan and Guild Wars), presenting a WoW-based primer for the world of Warhammer Online. World, characters, questing, crafting, user-interface, PvP and more are covered, so if you're interested in WAR and have at least passable knowledge of WoW, check out the guide.

JoystiqWarhammer Online, through the eyes of a WoW player originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-mythicelectronic-artsmythicPCwarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineTue, 09 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic flings wide the gates of the Warhammer Online open beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/mythic-flings-wide-the-gates-of-the-warhammer-online-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/mythic-flings-wide-the-gates-of-the-warhammer-online-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/mythic-flings-wide-the-gates-of-the-warhammer-online-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: ,


We know that most of you had some fairly important decisions to make this morning -- for instance, the mind-plaguing decision between coffee or tea, or the equally perplexing choice of cereal or pancakes. Perhaps you spent an hour in front of your dresser, trying to decide between boxers or briefs -- or, for our Alaskan friends, which color long johns best suited your mood. However, a select few of you will be making an even more complex decision today, likely in the next few hours: High Elves or Greenskins?

This race-rolling dilemma will be cordially presented to you by Mythic's Warhammer Online -- the open beta for which launched earlier this morning. Members of the previous stages of the closed beta and those who have pre-ordered the title at "select retail partners" can now download the client and let loose the dogs of WAR (though we've heard a number of complaints from frenzied pre-orderers who have had trouble accessing the beta). Fear not, unwashed masses -- your Age of Reckoning will begin in a little over a week.

JoystiqMythic flings wide the gates of the Warhammer Online open beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaeaElectronic-Artsmythicopen-betaPCwarhammer-onlineSun, 07 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX 2008: Appealing to an MMO Newbie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/pax-2008-appealing-to-an-mmo-newbie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/pax-2008-appealing-to-an-mmo-newbie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/pax-2008-appealing-to-an-mmo-newbie/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Worth it or not, to me personally, pay-to-play MMOs always felt like a ridiculous proposition. Paying to play a game I already paid for is like paying $5 to bite into a delicious burger I just got at the drive-through. Still, the genre continues to spawn new titles as proven at the 2008 Penny Arcade Expo.

While many MMO titles were on display, two were the most talked-about massively multiplayer role-playing games of the show: Warhammer Online and Aion: The Tower of Eternity. Realizing my limited experience with MMOs in the past, the team at Joystiq tasked me with learning as much as I could about each title and see if they could appeal to a genre newbie willing to jump into the online fray.

Continue reading PAX 2008: Appealing to an MMO Newbie

JoystiqPAX 2008: Appealing to an MMO Newbie originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionaion-the-tower-of-eternityea-mythicjoystiqfeaturesmythic-entertainmentncsoftpax-08pax-2008pax2008PCwarwarhammer-onlineThu, 04 Sep 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't be bear naked in Warhammer Online; preorder Red Alert 3!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/dont-be-bear-naked-in-warhammer-online-preorder-red-alert-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/dont-be-bear-naked-in-warhammer-online-preorder-red-alert-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/dont-be-bear-naked-in-warhammer-online-preorder-red-alert-3/#commentsFiled under: ,


You can put down that syringe full of bear hormones - EA's got a much easier (and more affordable!) way of transforming yourself into that most noble of Mother Nature's creatures: simply don Korssar's Helm. You see, the "magical Kislevite helm is imbued with the spirit of the wild North and will magically transform the wearer into a ferocious bear."

There are some caveats however: your ability to live your life as a bear will be limited to the virtual confines of EA Mythic's Warhammer Online MMO (a deal breaker for some, to be sure) and those willing to confine their bearness to WAR will still need to preorder Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 on PC to access the magical helm. Preorder cross-promotion? Clever move, EA. Great to see publishers further incentivizing preorders ... but we're sure there's at least a handful of WAR-heads eager to play as a bear (a bear!) but uninterested in picking up Red Alert 3. In other words: don't throw away those bear hormones just yet.

JoystiqDon't be bear naked in Warhammer Online; preorder Red Alert 3! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Command-and-Conquer-Red-Alert-3EAEA-MythicElectronic-ArtsPCpreorderRed-Alert-3WARWarhammer-OnlineWarhammer-Online-Age-of-ReckoningWed, 03 Sep 2008 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online goes gold, loots it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/warhammer-online-goes-gold-loots-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/warhammer-online-goes-gold-loots-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/warhammer-online-goes-gold-loots-it/#commentsFiled under: ,

EA Mythic has announced that its MMO treatment of the classic Games Workshop tabletop game, Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay, has begun its march towards store shelves.

Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning (best known in the MMO community as WAR) is finished and off to the magical disc-forging factory, preceding a public beta set to begin September 7, for which more than 800,000 players have registered. A very large, metal switch connected to what are surely fortress-like game servers will be flipped to the "fully on" position September 18, which is when the rest of the world will go to WAR.

JoystiqWarhammer Online goes gold, loots it originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea-mythicPCwarhammer-onlineTue, 26 Aug 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online cinematic trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/warhammer-online-cinematic-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/warhammer-online-cinematic-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/warhammer-online-cinematic-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , ,


There's a war going on. No, we're not talking about the one between the Armies of Order and the Armies of Destruction depicted in the recently released cinematic trailer for EA's upcoming MMO Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. Nope, we're talking about the war being waged on blogs and in forums over which fantasy MMO-themed video is better: this one or the Wrath of the Lich King opening. Since it's a war, you all have to watch both and pick a side. Apathy is not a choice!
[Download it in high-def from BigDownload]

JoystiqWarhammer Online cinematic trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-MythicElectronic-ArtsPCWARWarhammer-OnlineThu, 21 Aug 2008 17:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online open beta starts Sept. 7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/warhammer-online-open-beta-starts-sept-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/warhammer-online-open-beta-starts-sept-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/warhammer-online-open-beta-starts-sept-7/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you can't wait to get your hands on Warhammer Online, EA announced today that an open beta for the game will kick off Sept. 7, giving you a whole 11 days to play before the general populace sullies it on Sept. 18.

So, how do you get in? Just pre-order the game with one of EA's "select retail partners." (We don't know who they are yet, but even money says GameStop is one of them.) Also, those who are already in the closed beta will automagically be invited. So, are you getting in on the ground floor? Or have you been burned one too many times by start-up MMOs?

JoystiqWarhammer Online open beta starts Sept. 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaeaElectronic-ArtsPCwarhammerwarhammer-onlineMon, 18 Aug 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online team developed 250 classes, kept 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/warhammer-online-team-developed-250-classes-kept-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/warhammer-online-team-developed-250-classes-kept-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/10/warhammer-online-team-developed-250-classes-kept-20/#commentsFiled under: ,


As one can tell by frequenting the World of Warcraft class forums, one of the trickiest parts of MMO development is making sure that your game's classes are perfectly balanced. If your paladins can walk all over your warriors, or your druids can outheal your priests, you're going to hear about it. For this very reason, many MMO developers choose to keep their catalog of classes fairly limited -- however, Mythic Entertainment's design team reportedly decided upon the classes in their upcoming MMO Warhammer Online after plotting out nearly 250 careers for the title.

This report comes from an interview with Mythic's Creative Director, Paul Barnett, on Videogaming247. Barnett explains that the Warhammer team got a little out of hand when developing certain aspects of the title, and that the team decided to cull their expansive career roster to the 20 classes available at launch. A wise choice, considering the countless months it would have taken to make sure that the Treasure Hunter, Gymnast, Dermatologist, Pastry Chef, Assistant Dermatologist, Chimney Sweep, and Librarian classes were all evenly matched.

JoystiqWarhammer Online team developed 250 classes, kept 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classesmmomythicmythic-entertainmentPCwarhammerwarhammer-onlineSun, 10 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WAR to be waged on Sept. 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/war-to-be-waged-on-sept-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/war-to-be-waged-on-sept-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/war-to-be-waged-on-sept-18/#commentsFiled under:


We were a bit concerned when Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning (or WAR, on the streets) had its release date changed from the comfortingly specific "Sept. 23" to the vague and unsettling "Sept. 08." Little did we know, that change was just a chrysalis from which a new, just as specific but even earlier date could emerge: Sept. 18.

EA would also like you to start referring to Sept. 18 as the "Day of Reckoning," and that's fine, if you want to help drum up some extra interest among friends or family. Just do us a favor and put the kibosh on that when you go out into public, OK?

JoystiqWAR to be waged on Sept. 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewseaElectronic-Artsmythicrelease-dateswarwarhammerwarhammer-onlineWed, 06 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST