General Gaming Article

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• Jabra Freeway Bluetooth Speakerphone Review
• Patent Reform Signed into Law
• Sony Alpha NEX-5N Camera Ruins Audio with Clicking Defect
• Google Flipboard Competitor to be Dubbed "Propeller"
• Fan For Life: 115 Glorious Gaming Tattoos
• Cool Site of the Week: DocumentaryHeaven
• Should Intel Buy SandForce?
• Samsung Epic 4G Touch (Galaxy S II) Now Available on Sprint
• Verizon Update for Galaxy Tab 10.1 Addresses Your 4G LTE Woes
• Portal Goes Free for PC and Mac, but You Have to Act Fast

Jabra Freeway Bluetooth Speakerphone Review Posted: 16 Sep 2011 04:32 PM PDT Life in the fast lane  Negative press associated with the practice operating a cell phone while driving—which is not only dangerous, but also illegal in many jurisdictions—has spurred a sales boom in the Bluetooth headset market. But many drivers refuse to wear a headset, either because they find the device uncomfortable or inconvenient. And that, in turn, has created a niche market for solutions such as the Jabra Freeway, an in-car Bluetooth speakerphone that can be paired with up to eight devices (although only two can be active at once).  The whole point of using a hands-free device is to help prevent distracted driving. To that end, the Freeway requires very little tactile interaction to use. You can answer and initiate calls using only voice commands, and the device will announce the name of an incoming call, so you never need to look at your phone's display. Voice alerts keep you informed of power and connection status, as well as battery level. The Freeway will even turn itself off when you leave your car, and turn itself back on when you return—further reducing any need for interaction while preserving its own battery life. The battery is good for about 14 hours of talk time and 20 days on standby; Jabra recommends monthly recharges, which takes about two hours using the provided USB cable and car charger.  Although the Jabra Freeway Bluetooth speakerphone is designed to be controlled with voice commands, it's not devoid of buttons.  The Freeway attaches to your car's visor with a metal clip, and is outfitted with two omnidirectional microphones and a software-based digital signal processor. The DSP does a very capable job of filtering background noise, so the person on the other end of your call hears just your voice. The speakerphone supports the Bluetooth Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP), which is great if your car stereo doesn't have an aux input and you'd like to stream tunes, podcasts, or GPS directions from your phone. You can play the audio on the Freeway's own three speakers, which deliver impressive sound for their size, or you can relay it to your car stereo via an FM transmitter.  There are a couple of downsides to buying a Bluetooth speakerphone as an alternative to a headset. You could buy a top-shelf Bluetooth headset for less than the $130 Jabra expects to fetch for its Freeway, and speakerphones like this are pretty much limited to in-car use (although we suppose you could operate it on a desktop if you really wanted to). But if you spend a lot of time in your car and on the phone, the Jabra Freeway is a great solution.

Patent Reform Signed into Law Posted: 16 Sep 2011 02:58 PM PDT In a rare example of bipartisanship, the US Congress passed a patent reform bill, and President Obama has just signed it into law. The America Invents Act is the most significant revamp of the patent system in decades. It aims to speed the review process, weed out bad patents, and ensure the right party gets the patent. The law will allow the patent office to set fees for patent submissions, and retain that money to hire additional reviewers. The added staff should be able to move the backlog of hundreds of thousands of patents the office currently has. The law also moves the US patent system to a "first-to-file" policy. That means a patent will go to the first person to file it, not the first to create a product. The last part of the America Invents Act could be the most important. Third-parties are now welcome to dispute a patent before it is approved. This will be handled internally in the patent office. It will be considerably cheaper than litigating the issue once a patent is issued and considered valid by the courts. So the new law won't prevent broad software patents per se, but it will at least offer innovators the opportunity to challenge shady filings.

Sony Alpha NEX-5N Camera Ruins Audio with Clicking Defect Posted: 16 Sep 2011 02:38 PM PDT Sony's new Alpha NEX-5N takes great-looking stills and vibrant 1080p/60fps video, but many users have reported the audio is driving them bonkers. It seems that when the camera is moved, even slightly, it produces a clicking sound. A minor annoyance when taking stills, but it makes the audio track in videos pretty much useless. Engadget tracked the problem down to the camera body itself. So this has nothing to do with the lens or anything external. There just appears to be something not quite tamped down inside the device. According to reports, this happens in all NEX-5N units. Sony has unofficially confirmed the issue to Engadget, but the company has not come out with an official statement.  By using an eternal mic to capture audio, the clicking issue can be avoided for the time being. This simply moves the audio capture away from the body where the clicking originates. Anyone considering the $350 camera would do well to hold off on buying until Sony has had its say.

Google Flipboard Competitor to be Dubbed "Propeller" Posted: 16 Sep 2011 02:20 PM PDT Flipboard set nerd hearts aflutter when it brought a magazine-like experience to news feeds on the iPad. Google apparently tried to buy the feisty young start up last year, but was rebuffed. Well, now the Big G is reportedly building its own Flipboard competitor called Propeller.  The app will preform the same basic function as Flipboard, Zite, and AOL Editions by organizing news and reformatting it for a tablet interface. Sources that have seen the early versions of the app have called it "mind-blowing good." It's not clear what sort or social integration the product will have, but Google+ is for sure. Facebook and Google have been at odds, but it's not out of the question that Propeller could include Facebook Connect. The app is being developed for both Android and the iPad. Obviously, there is no release date available at this time. Do you thing Google can take out Flipboard?  Image via Mark Richards

Fan For Life: 115 Glorious Gaming Tattoos Posted: 16 Sep 2011 12:05 PM PDT A few months ago, we highlighted some of the best PC-related ink we could find, which turned into quite the project because it turns out there are a lot of people willing to tattoo themselves with binary code or an Android. However, while researching that piece we realized that there are a considerably larger number of people who are willing to sport video game related ink, which, really makes sense because games have a larger variety of artistic content than, say, software code being a visual medium and all. We found a vertible boatload of people who chose to make their love of Mario, Nintendo, Portal, or Pac-man really permanent. So, join us as we pay homage to the games that we all love and cherish by highlighting some of the best game-related tattoos we could find.

Cool Site of the Week: DocumentaryHeaven Posted: 16 Sep 2011 11:13 AM PDT With subscription services like Netflix and Hulu Plus, downloadable content from iTunes and Amazon, and freebies from Crackle or YouTube It's getting harder to justify paying for cable. For those of us who prefer our time in front of the tube stimulate, rather than rot our brains, DocumentaryHeaven may be the final push we need to usher our cable TV and satellite subscriptions out the door.   Offering up more than 1600 high quality documentary televisions shows and feature length films from around the interwebz, DocumentaryHeaven has been in operation since 2009 and shows no signs of slowing down. While 1600+ videos is a pretty respectable number, none of them would be worth their bandwidth if the content wasn't capable of keeping your attention. Fortunately, the majority of Documentary Heaven's offerings are top notch. Visitors to the site will no doubt also be thrilled to find that not only is the video quality typically high, but so the calibre and variety of what's on offer. The site's stable of documentaries is broken down into 49 different categories, making it a cinch to browse for something that appeals to you. In the mood for a bit of travel? Why not take a trip with Stephen Fry In America? Looking for a bit of hot human-on-computer action? Kasparov Versus Deep Thought should be just the ticket. Without a doubt, DocumentaryHeaven's got it going on. Be sure to check back every Friday for another edition of Maximum PC's Cool Site of the Week.

Should Intel Buy SandForce? Posted: 16 Sep 2011 11:06 AM PDT We didn't come up with that question out of the blue, and we only started wondering about the logistics of such a move after hearing rumors that Intel and SandForce are fast becoming pals. According to news and rumor site Fudzilla, Intel is at the very least seriously considering outfitting some of its high-end solid state drives with SandForce controllers, which would be just another notch -- albeit a very big on -- on SandForce's belt. But that's not all Intel is thinking about. Fudzilla says its Santa Clara sources are suggesting Intel is interested in acquiring SandForce outright, provided the price is right. And that right there is the reason why the deal will probably never materialize. Back before OCZ went out and scooped up Indilinx, Fudzilla asked the memory maker if there was any interest in buying SandForce, especially since so many of OCZ's SSDs use SandForce controllers. As the story goes, OCZ dismissed the idea after hearing SandForce's asking price and decided it made better sense to continuing licensing controllers. And then OCZ went out and bought Indilinx. Now Intel is at the same crossroads as OCZ was once at. Should Intel make a bid for SandForce, license the company's controllers, or keep forging ahead with its own controllers? We don't know which direction Intel will take, but given that SandForce is all over the place right now, we don't imagine the company is all that eager to sell out for anything less than a king's ransom. Image Credit: SandForce

Samsung Epic 4G Touch (Galaxy S II) Now Available on Sprint Posted: 16 Sep 2011 10:44 AM PDT Samsung's Galaxy S II smartphone is finally available for purchase in the U.S. It goes by the name "Epic 4G Touch," which is the name attached to Sprint's version of the second coming of the popular Galaxy S, and it features some big (literally) specs, starting with a generously sized 4.52-inch Super AMOLED display. Underneath the hood you'll find a 1.2GHz dual-core Exynos processor and 1GB of RAM. It's also equipped with an 8MP rear-facing camera, 2MP front-facing camera, 16GB of built-in storage, a microSD card for up to 32GB more storage, and various other features you've come to expect from a high-end Android device, including Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) running the show. As the name implies, there's a 4G radio inside to help take full advantage of Sprint's unlimited data plan, provided you live in a WiMAX coverage area. Pricing for the Epic 4G Touch is $200 with a 2-year service agreement, or $500 outright. Epic 4G Touch on Sprint Image Credit: Sprint

Verizon Update for Galaxy Tab 10.1 Addresses Your 4G LTE Woes Posted: 16 Sep 2011 09:34 AM PDT A new over-the-air (OTA) update for the 4G LTE version of Samsung's Galaxy Tab 10.1 tablet for Verizon might be just the thing you need to curb your cussing and keep your extra dollars out of the swear jar, but only if you're experiencing high-speed connectivity issues. If you're swearing up a storm for another reason, this update will do nothing to patch your potty mouth. Verizon's OTA update promises "enhanced data connectivity," which we read to mean it should fix any 4G LTE connection plauging your device. That's it for the big fixes, and everything else is focused on squashing minor bugs, including a handful related to email and Web browsing, and a few ho-hum feature enhancements like adding the 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) information to the "About Tablet" menu. Read more about the update here. Image Credit: Verizon

Portal Goes Free for PC and Mac, but You Have to Act Fast Posted: 16 Sep 2011 09:12 AM PDT We love free things, and we like them even more when they're awesome. Those two don't go hand-in-hand nearly enough, but for a short while, they both apply to Portal, a single-player first person puzzle platformer that was born out of Valve's Orange Box bundle and quickly gained notoriety as a hella-fun standalone title. From now until September 20, 2011, you can download Portal from Steam absolutely free, no strings attached. Grab it by then and you'll discover why it was such a popular title, assuming you don't already own it. The limited-time giveaway is Valve's way of bringing attention to its Learn with Portals initiative. "When we heard the buzz surrounding the new role video games are playing in education, we had to throw our hat in the ring. Today, innovative educators are finding ways to incorporate Portal and Portal 2 into their classrooms—helping teach physics and critical-thinking skills. It's eye-opening to see how video games can be used in amazing and unexpected ways to help educate our next generation," Valve states on its new Learn with Portals website. Again, the offer stands until next Tuesday, and who knows when or if it will go free again (it's happened before). Rather than risk it, just click here from your PC or Mac.

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MMO News

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• Lego Universe Online Gameplay – First Look HD
• Troy Online adds new battleground
• Bloodline Champions releases Dawn of Relics
• Tiara Concerto Hands-On Preview
• Runescape Classic open for a limited time
• Cross Fire launches Undead Update
• Project Blackout announces Mall Rage tournament
• Hellgate announces Tokyo expansion

Lego Universe Online Gameplay – First Look HD Posted: 16 Sep 2011 01:53 PM PDT To Learn More About the Game Check out our Lego Universe Online Page. Lego Universe Online is a 3D lego themed MMO published by the Lego Company. Gameplay wise Lego Universe Online plays a bit like Free Realms – as it contains MMORPG elements as well as simple mini games. The game originally launched as a subscription based game but later went “Free to play” by dropping its subscription for basic membership. Basic non-paying members can only access a handful of the worlds in the game and have limited access to most of the games other features. Like Fusionfall, Club Penguin, and Monkey Quest – Lego Universe Online is a game largely aimed at a younger audience. To learn more about Lego Universe Online check out the official MMOHut Lego Universe Online page which includes a detailed review, tons of screenshots, and additional videos.

Troy Online adds new battleground Posted: 16 Sep 2011 01:51 PM PDT Troy Online has announced the release of a new battlefield. The new battlefield lets players of all levels participate, rather than separating them by level. Winners will earn a buff (+10% magic and physical attack) for their entire faction, not just the players who participated, and that buff will last until the next battle. Inside the battlefield, one team will defend a central capture point. The attacking team must take over and occupy the point for five minutes to win; the defensive team can win by holding the point for 20 minutes. Troy Online is published by Alt1 Games. Troy Online Gameplay Screenshot Source: TROY – the Advance on a New Battlefield for Honor for Each Faction A portion of the Troy long-term update schedule was released which a lot of users have been waiting for with anticipation. According to this schedule, it’s planned that a big scale update will include a balance optimization among classes and new contents for higher level users on Oct 13. Also a new battlefield will be open for users of all levels on Sep 15. Unfortunately the details regarding this update are not revealed this time. The new battlefield updated on Sep 15 is different from the previous level wars. The previous battlefields were divided by the player’s levels. However, in the new battlefield, all players can participate regardless of level. The reward buff for the winners will affect the winning faction as a whole and of course the users who participated in the event as well. It is important how well each group unites as one in this new battlefield. The users should have a more enjoyable in the battlefield with the upgraded system. The concept for the new battlefield is as follows: One faction defends a capture point in the center of the temple while the opposing faction will attempt to overtake it. To succeed on the offensive, you must take over and stand within the capture point for 5 minutes. To succeed on the defensive, you must stand on your ground and defend your territory for 20 minutes. The reward for winners are as follows: +10% magic and physical attack buff when hunting monsters will be given to all faction members until the next battle time. In this battle system, the outcome depends on the strategy through the communication of each faction’s respective members. The reward buff for the winners is given to all members of their respective faction as well as participants who, in addition to the buff, will also receive experience points, in-game Dra, and rewards chests. Thus, it’s expected that this will become the most sought battlefield in Troy online. Alt1games have made it their mission to create Troy online together with the users. They aim to listen to the community and implement the requests of the users, such as improving lag, restoring the durability of items when finishing battlefields, displaying future battle times and improving wars with the addition of a new battlefield mode as well as support systems for their user’s convenience.

Bloodline Champions releases Dawn of Relics Posted: 16 Sep 2011 01:00 PM PDT The Dawn of Relics update is now live for Bloodline Champions. The update introduces a new beginner quest that rewards players with a free Bloodline (players who own all Bloodlines will earn Blood Coins instead). A new medallion and traits system introduces character progression, letting you now modify health, damage, movement and cooldowns on your bloodline. A new matchmaking system lets players join as a party, and has been improved to make matchmaking faster and better. Other changes include an overhaul to the Bloodgate UI, new items, and rebalancing to several classes and skills. Bloodline Champions is published by Funcom, which also publishes Age of Conan. Bloodline Champions Gameplay Screenshot Source: Bloodgate Overhaul Major parts of the Bloodgate user interface has been reworked and updated with new functionality, graphics and sounds. • The Top navigation bar has been redesigned • The main play game bar has been redesigned • A new game menu – Standard Game has been added • Quicklinks have been added to the News panel Standard Game In the new Standard Game menu players can search for games using the matchmaking system, play Single Player and learn from the Tutorial Section Matchmaking • Players can now join the matchmaking queue solo or together with friends as a Party. • There are now one single queue for both Europe and US and players can prioritize which regions they want to play in. • The matchmaking system will now take player level into consideration when looking for a suitable game. • Players can now queue for 5v5 Conquest and Artifact Games. • The skill estimation question has been removed Tutorials • The Basic Combat tutorial has been improved and should now run smoother. • A tutorial section for videos and guides have been added. Bloodline Quest There is now a bloodline starter quest for all players. Earn one bloodline or 3000 Blood coins by completing the following Achievements: • Reach Level 5 • Complete the Tutorial • Win 1 Arena Game • Win 1 Conquest Game • Win 1 Capture the Artifact game Account Progression The account level system has been reworked. There is now a level cap at level 25. The XP algorithm has been changed to fit the new level cap. All players account level has been recalculated to fit the new leveling system. A lot of elements in the game are now bound to player level. The following menus are now unavailable from the start and are unlocked when the player increases in level: • Teams Menu Unlocked at Level 5 • Traits Menu Unlocked at Level 5 • Medallion Menu Unlocked at Level 8 • Tournament Menu Unlocked at Level 10 • Rated Solo Matchmaking Unlocked at level 25 Traits & Medallions Traits The trait system will enable players to modify stats and passive bonuses by spending Trait Points. Players will receive Trait Points when leveling up their account. Players can access the Trait system once they hit level 5. Medallions Players can equip medallions that grants additional abilities. Players can access the Medallion system once they hit level 8.There are 4 different categories of medallions: Crimson Grants an offensive/utility ability. This ability costs energy to use. (medallion slot unlocked at level Cobalt Grants a defensive ability. This ability costs energy to use. (medallion slot unlocked at level 10) Passive Grants a passive bonus to the wearer. (medallion slot unlocked at level 12) Troll Grants a troll ability, used to troll your opponents.(medallion slot unlocked at level 14) Gems Gems can be inserted into medallions. Gems grants additional stats bonuses. Gems cannot be inserted into a Troll medallion. Hanging Gardens of Savir – New Arena Map The Hanging Gardens of Savir is a new medium sized arena map in the Temple setting. Season 3 • All players grades have been reset • New Rewards for Season 3 will be announced later Marketplace • Blood coin boost services have been added, increasing the amount of blood coins earnt for a period of time. • XP boost services have been added, increasing the amount of XP earnt for a period of time. Blood Coins • The general Blood Coin generation from games have been greatly increased • A blood coin max cap has been added. Players can’t earn more blood coins from games when they are above 50.000. • Some items in the Marketplace have had their Blood Coin price removed and can now only be purchased with Funcom Points • Achievements now rewards less Blood Coins • Daily bonus reduced to 400 Blood Coins from 600. Blood Coins in different game types • 25% from Private Games(custom games) • 50% from Single Player Games • 100% from Standard Matchmaking (Arena, Conquest, CTA) • 100% from 2on2 Team Matchmaking • 125% from 3on3 Team Matchmaking Game Lobby • Time before the game starts after all players have joined from a matchmaking queue down to 5s from 15s • Map votes are now saved. • Map vote time down to 20s from 45s Loader The loader has been updated with new graphics and functionality Achievements • New achievements added for The Hanging Gardens of Savir. • New achievements added for the Trait and Medallion System. • Certain Achievements have been reworked to fit the new Leveling System. • CVPS achievements have been reworked to fit the new damage, healing and control values General • a randomize flag button has been added to the team creation menu • Size and fade time for scrolling combat text has been tweaked • Scrolling combat text now scales with camera distance • Health bars are now divided into blocks to make it easier to distinguish max health for different bloodlines • Auto-join channel checkbox has been added to the chat • Secondary key bindings are now available. • Scoreboard should now be showing players before the countdown of the first round General Bugfixes • Fixed a bug that caused some particles (buffs and blood effects) to spawn at random positions where there was no player • Fixed a bug that caused the shop to sometimes return an empty list of items • Fixed a bug that caused the bloodline previewer to have dark background models after a game when using medium graphics settings. • Fixed a bug that caused losses to count as wins for certain achievements. • Fixed a bug with conquest rounds, it should now be possible to play several rounds on the same map • Conquest cold team rounds won counter no longer counts downwards Bloodline & Gameplay Changes • All bloodlines have been massively buffed and now deals 10 times more damage and healing, shield abilities absorb 10 times more damage and max health and recovery health has been increased by 10 times. • Several ability effects have been updated with new graphics and new sound effects • Simplified tooltips have been added to all abilities, these can be turned off in the option menu. • The group heal effect has been removed from all primary healing spells. Only the target closest to the impact will now be healed • Fixed an issue where abilities could be interrupted just as they were cast and consume cooldown + energy before you turned immaterial. (EX Lunge, Venom Lunge, EX Fleetfoot, Earth Crush, Puncturing Strikes, Cyclone Charge, Possession, Conflagration) • Fixed an issue where instant spells could be cast when being affected by Tornado while Slept. • Fixed an issue where Possession would turn you material while stunning an enemy. • Dismantle now counts as a Silence type effect and is now reduced by cc reducing effects • Black Dagger now counts as a Silence type effect and is now reduced by cc reducing effects • Dark Voodoo now counts as a Weaken type effect and is now reduced by cc reducing effects • Moon shadow now counts as a Slow type effect and is now reduced by cc reducing effects • Feeble minded now counts as a Silence type effect and is now reduced by cc reducing effects Ranged Igniter Living Flame (R) • No longer heals the Igniter for 25% of the absorbed damage Engineer Concussion Shot (MB2) • Energy gain down to 12 from 14 Jetpack (Space) • Min range reduced to 60 from 120 Shrink (R) • Energy gain down to 3 from 5 • Duration down to 4s from 5s Seeker Seeker’s Strike (MB1) • Energy Gain down to 8 from 9. Fire Arrow (MB2) • Casttime down to 0.6s from 0.8s. • Impact damage down to 18 from 25. • Fire Area damage up to 5 every 0.5s from 4 every 0.5s. • Fire Area duration up to 3.5s from 3s. • Cooldown down to 5.5s from 6s. • Energy gain down to 10 from 12. Ice Arrow (Q) • Area effect no longer reduces attack speed. • Freeze duration up to 0.5s from 0.3s. • Cooldown down to 9s from 10s. • Casttime down to 0.4s from 0.5s. • Delay before impact up to 0.9s from 0.8s. Blitz (Space) – Reworked The Seeker dashes towards target location, deals 10-16 damage and knocks target back upon impact. Damage and knockback increases with distance dashes. Can be double casted Earth Arrow – (E) • Now deals flat 14 damage and heals 14 health. • No longer reduces projectile speed. • Now weakens target by 25% and slows movement speed by 15% for 3.5s, stacks up to two times. Lightning Arrow – (EX – MB2) • Damage down to 20 / 16 / 12 from 22 / 18 / 14 • Velocity down to 270 from 300 • Duration between bounces up to 0.2s from 0.1s Markmanship (F) – Removed Storm Arrow (F) – New Ultimate Piercing projectile attack that deals 10 damage and inflicts Storm; deals 4 damage every 1s for 3s, deals 30 damage to the target and 20 damage to nearby allies of the target when the effect ends. Nomad Razor Boomerang • Range up to 100 from 93 Healers Psychopomp Other Side (R) • Fade time down to 0.4s from 0.7s Astronomer Spectro Strike (MB1) • Damage from consuming Solar Charge down to 5 from 10 Sun Ellipse (Space) • Sun Ellipse now correctly gives energy when dealing damage and healing allies • Energy down to 3% from 6% Grimrog Healing Ward (Q) • Health down to 10 from 15 • Damage reduction down to 20% from 33% Wicked Blessing (MB2) • Cooldown reduction per stack down to 4% from 6% Gringols Gate (Space) • Delay before gates spawn up to 0.25s from 0.1s. • Cast time down to 0s from 0.2s. • Warp time up to 0.25s from 0.12s • Max range down to 120 from 135 Shamanistic Flurry (R) • Slow factor down to 25% from 40% • Slow duration up to 2.8s from 2.5s • Cooldown up to 8s from 7s • Consuming Curse of Kojo now Blinds the enemy for 2s instead of turning the enemy into Stone for 2s. Dark Voodoo (EX – E) • Damage conversion cap down to 17 from 20 • Duration down to 2s from 2.5s • Dark Voodoo no longer converts healing to damage from Nether Shift Curse of Weakness (F) • Min damage up to 25 from 20 • Max damage up to 45 from 40 Herald Stiffling Dust (MB1) • Cooldown reduction down to 7% from 9% per stack Healing Word (MB2) • Spirit Dust heal down to 4/2 from 5/2 Mantra of Devotion (Q) • Changed to a 180 degree cone attack from 360 degree • Now deals 4 / 8 / 12 damage if the enemy is affected by Feeble Minded Cerebral Shock (EX E) – Removed Aura of Devotion (EX -Q) – Removed Chrono Bolt (New EX – E) Projectile attack that deals 22 damage, knocks target back and inflicts Time Fever; Increases damage taken by 20% for 6s. Time Rift (New EX – Q) Teleports the Herald back to the position he where standing at 1.8s back in time. Lockdown (F) • Time Fewer amplify factor down to 25% from 33% • Now silences enemies instead of incapacitating them, the silence effects breaks on damage. Melee Harbinger Shadow Bolt (E) • Now deals 26-38 damage, damage is increased by distance traveled. • Cooldown up to 5s from 4s. • Amplify Duration down to 7s from 8s. Dark Ward (F) • Plague Slow down to 30% from 75%. • Shadow Slash damage increase down to 15% from 30%. • Passive damage reduction down to 20% from 25%. Ravener Spike Strike (MB1) • Casttime down to 0.3s from 0.4s. • Cooldown down to 0.3s from 0.4s. • Damage down to 11/12/13 from 13/14/15. • Energy Gain down to 6 from 7. • No longer inflicts Stun on 3rd hit. • Now consumes Electrify dealing 5 extra damage and stuns target for 0.3s. Assail (Space) – Reworked Now leaps to target location inflicting Electrify on all nearby enemies. Electrify reduces movement speed by 10% for 3s. • Leap distance increased to 80 from 55. • Haste duration increased to 2.5s from 2s. • Haste factor down to 25% from 50%. • No longer deals extra damage/stun on impact. Spinning Strike (Q) • Area down to 13 from 18. Spike Shield • Damage reduction down to 40% from 50% Earth Crush (F) – Reworked Now leaps two timer towards target location, deals 26 damage and inflicts Electrify on all nearby enemies. Thunder Shock (EX – MB2) – Removed Bone Crush Rush (EX – Space) – Removed Raging Thunder (New EX – Q) Spinning attack that deals 6 damage every 0.25s and inflicts Electrify on Hit. The Ravener can move through enemies during Raging Thunder but projectile attacks are not reflected. Increases movement speed by 70%. Mace to the Face (New EX – E) Dash attack that deals 16 damage and inflicts Wasted: Reduces damage done by 50% for 4s. Stalker Puncturing Strike / Slice & Dice • Now only incapacitates on the first time the attack hits a target (the incapacitate effect does not break from Puncturing Strike / Slice & Dice second or third hit) Deviate (Space) • Fade time before teleport up to 0.32s from 0.25s. • Teleport time up to 0.08s from 0.05s. Stalkers Cloak (R) • No longer inflicts Incapacitate when a debuff is removed. • Now heals the target for 14 health when a debuff is removed. Shroud of Darkness (EX – R) • No longer inflicts Incapacitate when a debuff is removed. • No longer reduces damage taken. • Now heals the target for 14 health when a debuff is removed. Reaver Drunken Haze (Q) • Now only triggers the AoE effect when a player is hit • Impact damage up to 15 from 12 • Area damage up to 8 from 6 Blade Strike (MB1) • Breaking Drunken Haze with this attack heals the Reaver for 12 health Dragoon Strike (Space) • Breaking Drunken Haze with this attack heals the Reaver for 12 health Explosive Kick – Reworked and renamed to Flying Side Kick (EX – E) Dash attack that deals 18 damage and inflicts Spell Block; blocks an ability for 3s Spearmaster Whirlwind (F) • damage up to 30 per second from 28 Tanks Glutton Earthstorm (E) • Damage reduction down to 25% from 33% Revitalizing Wind (EX – E) • Damage reduction down to 25% from 33% Stalagmite (MB2) • Cooldown up to 7.5s from 6.5s Rush (Space) • Cooldown up to 8s from 7.5s Inhibitor Runic Discharge (Q) • Now only triggers the AoE effect when a player is hit • Casttime down to 0.4s from 0.5s Thorn Root Bash (MB1) • Regrowth no longer heals over time, damage reduction down to 3% per stack from 4%, now stacks up to 2 times. Fungal Spores (MB2) • Now consumes Regrowth healing Thorn for 7 health. Mud Walk(Space) • Now Entangles enemies for 0.5s instead of throwing them into the air Mushroom Spore(E) • Entangle Duration down to 2s from 2.4s • Ticks down to 2 from 3 • Damage and healing per tick up to 5 from 4 Guardian Sweeping Strike (MB1) • Consuming Judgement now always deals 20 damage instead of 16 damage + 6% of lost health. Boomerang Axe • Incapacitate duration up to 0.4s from 0.3s • No longer inflicts Incapacitate on the way back Disperse – Reworked – Renamed to Counter Attack (E) The Guardian now leaps vs target location striking in an aoe dealing 16 damage and inflicting a 0.5s Silence when Counter Attack is triggered by a melee, projectile or direct aoe attack. Sanctuary – Reworked (R) Sanctuary is no longer an EX ability and now creates a shield around target player, reduces damage taken by 60% and absorbs up to 16 damage, breaking the sanctuary triggers a 40% weaken effect on nearby enemies lasting 3s. The shield lasts up to 2.5s. Chain Heal (EX – R) Chain Heal is now an EX ability, Heals target ally for 30/22/14 health and applies Breeze; Increases movement speed by 20% for 3s. Intervene (Space) • No longer heals the Guardian when Intervening a friendly Healing Ward Cyclone Charge (F) Area down to 12 from 18

Tiara Concerto Hands-On Preview Posted: 15 Sep 2011 11:45 PM PDT Music and action, airships and elements: these are the core melodies of Tiara Concerto, one of Gamania’s showcased games at the Gamania Game Show last week. MMOHut was among the few who were able to place their hands on the "strings" of the game in an exclusive hands-on demo of this upcoming themed MMORPG. "Music is Magic" The strongest theme in Tiara Concerto is "music is magic." Set in the fictional world of Neume, the characters of Tiara Concerto live in a world where the only land exists in floating islands in the clouds, long after the destruction of their world from pollution and destruction. These people – Humans, living alongside Elves and Beasts – work to maintain harmony in the skies. They have also discovered a special magic known as "tuning," in which the use of music allows them to connect with the elements ("Foneme") and draw its power into the world itself. Three Levels of Harmony To that degree, players can choose one of three classes in the game. Composers are the melee of the group, wielding swords or polearms. At ranged with either twin guns or a blade gun is the Performer. Finally, focused purely on magic and music is the Tuner, which used stringed instruments to perform elemental attacks. Each class has two specializations which change their available skills and playstyle in battle. Despite true musical attacks being relegated to the Tuner class, all three classes’ attacks are based on the musical "tuning" abilities. While you won’t see a Composer suddenly drop his polearm to play a tune on a flute, each attack is considered to use music to their advantage to create combos. Players can go into "Accent" states, much like rush combos, and earn special attacks by chaining their attacks together. Dancing into Battle MMOHut had the chance to play through the game show’s special demo, choosing two of the classes to take a first-hand look at: the Performer and the Tuner. The demo instance began us below deck on an airship, where we found ourselves under attack by from a crew of dog-men who launched a full fire attack. The first stage (or "movement") of the instance placed us on deck of the ship, where we actively dodged fire attacks from the ship while defending from landing pirates. Once a host of these were defeated, the captain escorted us up a series of ships chained together to the attacking ship, where we fought again on deck to gain access to the underbelly of the ship. Once below, we battled through more dog-men to gain access to the cooling systems of the ship, which we had to repeatedly turn on while chasing off engineers that sought to prevent us from our plans. After a few minutes of playing tag with cooling switches, we were heading up again to the last phase of the instance: the giant beast captain. This battle was no joke; between dodging mortar attacks and being pummeled quickly by his swift attacks, death was hard to avoid. Hey Diddle Diddle, Where’s My Fiddle? Tiara Concerto’s game-play was simple and beautiful; even combat felt artistic as characters moved fluidly from one attack to the next, leaping into the air with guns blazing or posing as the bow is drawn across the strings to unleash a gorgeous but devastating spell. The problem was that for all that was sung about music’s heavy importance in the game, the crescendo was never hit. Instead of building or blending harmonies and melodies, like bard classes in many games, or tapping skills to a rhythm, as might be found in other musical games, Tiara Concerto simply relied on skill use and chaining as typical to other action MMORPGs. While animations flowed in almost a musical way, the actual gameplay was no more than a combination of basic attacks and skills with occasional powerful combo skills unleashed. Even the Tuner, who wields instruments instead of weapons, felt sadly underwhelming in the orchestral department. There’s a lot still promised for Tiara Concerto, such as open world exploration, PvP, even platform jumping, puzzles, and traps; with a team that includes key designers from Neve Rossa and music producer Wai Wong, there’s plenty of potential for the game. As we saw it at Gamania Game Show, however, Tiara Concerto needs a lot of fine-tuning its own strings to transition from another simple action MMO into something more distinct in a growing market. The Gamania Game Show (GGS) took place this year on Sept 8 and Sept 9 in Taipei, Taiwan. Press from around the globe, including MMOHut, were invited to take a hands-on look at the game company’s four new games in development – Dream Drops, Langrisser Schwarz, Tiara Concerto, and Core Blaze – as well as other products. Pictures & Screenshots of Langrisser Schwarz at the Gamania Game Show:

Runescape Classic open for a limited time Posted: 15 Sep 2011 05:35 PM PDT As part of RuneScape’s 10th anniversary, Jagex will open RuneScape classic for a limited time.New players must log in between September 15 and September 29 to gain full access to RuneScape Classic. RuneScape Classic is the original version of RuneScape, published in January 2001. The game has been relatively off-limits since 2004, but is infrequently re-opened to players so they can see how far the game has progressed. Players can also collect the Classic Cape, Classic Hood, and Skillcape emote from the game. RuneScape Gameplay Screenshot Source: RUNESCAPE TO OPEN RUNESCAPE CLASSIC FOR THE FINAL TIME JAGEX TO REOPEN RUNESCAPE CLASSIC TO MEMBERS AS PART OF THE GAMES 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS Thursday 15th September 2011, Cambridge, UK – Jagex Games Studio today announced that they would be reopening RuneScape classic for the last time as part of the games 10th anniversary celebrations to allow players new and old the chance to see how the game has evolved. RuneScape Classic was first released to the public in January 2001 and is the original version of the immensely popular free to play MMMORPG RuneScape and shows just how far RuneScape has come over the past 10 years. RuneScape Classic has been opened sporadically since RuneScape 2 was released in 2004 and fans have been checking out how far the game has progressed ever since, taking a nostalgic tour of the game and collecting the much coveted Classic Cape and Classic Hood. These collectables, which give players a unique Skillcape emote, are exclusive in-game items only available to those who have logged in to RuneScape Classic; making this last ever chance a historical moment for RuneScape players as the cape and hood will soon be unobtainable to those not already holding them. RuneScape members wishing to join RuneScape Classic will need to log-in between Thursday 15th September 2011 and Thursday 29th September 2011 to ensure they can access the game in the future as this is the last time the doors will be open to new players. Daniel Clough, VP of RuneScape, commented, "The past 10 years have seen RuneScape grow and develop at a phenomenal rate and today's game is testament to the continued content, graphical and technological updates. Taking a trip back to Classic is gives our longest standing players a chance to reminisce and newer players a chance to see where their game has come from. Ten years after RuneScape Classic opened its gates to adventurers, it seems a fitting time to close them to new players, as we look forward to RuneScape's second decade and to what promises to be a very exciting future for the game." To discover RuneScape classic for yourself, please visit www.RuneScape.com today.

Cross Fire launches Undead Update Posted: 15 Sep 2011 05:09 PM PDT The Undead Update for Cross Fire is now live and free for all players. New to Cross Fire in this update is the Zombie Mode, where up to four players can battle Undead Zombies, Mutants, and Monsters either in Unearth or Biohazard. The maps also feature bosses: Goliath and Nightmare. Beating these bosses grants Zombie Mode-exclusive items and rewards.Also new in the update is the DSR1-Camo, Bizon PP-19 SMG, Ruger MINI-14, Hypomeds, Revival Tokens, and the L.A. SWAT (Mall), a female version of the SWAT character. Players can earn two new achievement ribbons and free cash items for playing Zombie Mode, along with participate in other update launch events. Cross Fire is published by Z8Games, which also publishes Metin 2. Cross Fire Gameplay Screenshot Source: CROSS FIRE RELEASES FREE "UNDEAD UPDATE" FEATURING CO-OP ZOMBIE MODE Including Two New Maps, New Weapons and Items, a New Playable Character, and More! Toronto, CANADA – September 15, 2011 –G4BOX Inc., a North American publisher and distributor of interactive online entertainment media, released today the "Undead Update" to players of its free-to-play military shooter, Cross Fire. The free update features Zombie Mode, an all-new co-operative mode that pits players against waves of undead zombies, mutants, and monsters, in an epic struggle for survival across two new maps. The Undead Update also includes new weapons and equipment, a new playable character, and much more! Starting today, players can also complete in-game challenges to earn new ribbon achievements and free in-game items!  For current players, the Undead Update will download automatically upon launching Cross Fire. New players can download and play the game for free from: http://crossfire.z8games.com. In Cross Fire's new Zombie Mode, up to 4 players can team up to fend off waves of Undead Zombies, Mutants and Monsters across two new maps: the cursed burial ground of Unearth and the underground biochemical testing facility, Biohazard. Make it to the final wave and players will face off against fearsome boss monsters, including the hulking Goliath, and the winged predator, Nightmare. Beating the boss will earn players exclusive Zombie Mode items and equipment. The Undead Update also delivers new weapons and equipment for use in regular modes, like the DSR1-Camo, a powerful assault rifle with a slick digital camouflage finish, the Bizon PP-19 SMG, and the Ruger MINI-14 lightweight semi-automatic. Players can also purchase the new L.A. SWAT character, a female version of the popular SWAT character, from the Cross Fire Item Mall. The Undead Update also introduces Hypomeds and Revival Tokens, health items that will help players stay alive longer in Zombie Mode. To celebrate the release of this long-anticipated update, players can also earn two new achievement ribbons and free cash items, just for playing Zombie Mode upon release.  To learn more about the Zombie Mode events and rewards, and for a full summary of all the new content included in the Undead Update, visit: http://crossfire.z8games.com/new_content.aspx. "The Undead Update is among the biggest updates Cross Fire has ever received," said Jason Yang, CEO of G4BOX Inc., "Zombie Mode introduces a fresh new co-operative dynamic to Cross Fire's gameplay that is both challenging and unique." Cross Fire is a free online military first-person shooter for the PC platform. It includes a military ranking system, in-game friends lists, an integrated clan system, deep character customization options and social media integration via the Cross Fire website. More MAPS. More GUNS. More MODES. More HEADSHOTS. Join millions of players online today in the ultimate military FPS experience. Cross Fire is part of the Z8Games platform of free-to-play games. Cross Fire is free-to-download-and-play. Visit the Cross Fire homepage at: http://crossfire.z8games.com For more information about G4BOX visit www.g4box.com.  For more information about the Z8Games lineup of games please visit www.z8games.com.

Project Blackout announces Mall Rage tournament Posted: 15 Sep 2011 04:10 PM PDT Project Blackout has announced its next Death Match Tournament, set to take place on Friday, September 23, starting at 3 pm Pacific. The tournament will support 448 players in Death Match modes on the Shopping Center Map. All participants will earn 2,000 PB Points, a 150% experience boost (3 days), and a 3-quantity Giga Bomb Box. The top 24 players will earn 30,000 PB Points, the top four will earn 100,000 PB Points, and the champion will earn a permanent weapon of their choice. Project Blackout is published by SG Interactive, which also publishes Grand Chase and Shot Online. Project Blackout Gameplay Screenshot Source: Project Blackout Hatches New Dinosaur; Unleashes Mall Madness SG Interactive's Popular Online First Person Shooter Introduces New Predator and Death Match Tournament Irvine, Calif. – September 15, 2011 – SG Interactive's online free-to-play first-person shooter (FPS), Project Blackout, now offers players new opportunities to engage in the mayhem with the introduction of a new cash dinosaur and an upcoming death match tournament. Here are the details for the upcoming Project Blackout updates: New Dinosaur 'Tank' Joins the Fray Tank joins the growing pack of dinosaurs, including the Velociraptor, Tyrannosaurus Rex and Sting, in Project Blackout's unique Dino Mode. Tank is the fastest dinosaur in  Project Blackout but is not known for having brains, perhaps because of one too many hits to the head. Tank uses his massive cranium to headbutt would be attackers and inflict deadly damage to a crowd of opponents. Upcoming Tournament The latest Project Blackout Death Match Tournament will take place on Friday, Sept. 23, 2011 at 3 p.m. PDT on the Shopping Center map. More than 400 players will have the opportunity to bring mayhem to the mall to earn Giga Bomb Boxes, PB points, experience points and the ultimate bragging rights. The last man standing will earn a permanent primary weapon of choice. Project Blackout is a free-to-play online FPS that pits players against players in a wide variety of game modes. It will test your skills as a gamer with fast-paced action, precision shooting, and twitch response times. The graphics, stereo sound effects, and camera effects will put you in the middle of the action and test your skills at a whole new level. To join the epic battle for survival, register to play for free at  http://www.projectblackout.net.

Hellgate announces Tokyo expansion Posted: 15 Sep 2011 03:56 PM PDT Hellgate has announced that the game’s major expansion, Hellgate Tokyo, will be available to its global players on September 22. The update introduces a new storyline that expands on the London Resurrection into Tokyo Base, filled with 24 new levels of content. Two new modes, Cow Room (battle off dozens of zombies and bosses while fighting through sight-restricting sandstorms) and Base Defense (defend your bases against demons) will offer new loot and challenges to players. The update will also reintroduce Hell Mode. Hellgate is published by T3Fun, which also publishes AIKA Online (Global). Hellgate Gameplay Screenshot Source: Hellgate Global to Expand its Crusade to Tokyo this September The much-anticipated expansion, Hellgate Tokyo, has finally come to Hellgate Global servers LOS ANGELES – September 15, 2011 T3fun today announced the upcoming release of Hellgate Global's major expansion, Hellgate Tokyo, on September 22nd. As demons start to raze the city of Tokyo, heroes from London decide to help the remaining Tokyo soldiers in their war against demons. The upcoming expansion boasts tons of new features and updates which include: New Storyline Hellgate Tokyo continues the story of the London Resurrection. Heroes will be able to continue mankind's fight for survival in the new expansion. Heroes start in Tokyo Base, and continue on to different locations as they progress through the story. Tokyo is composed of 24 new levels, with new monsters and boss monsters. New Modes Hellgate Tokyo introduces two new modes, Cow Room and Base Defense. In Cow Room, heroes will test their strength by facing hordes and hordes of zombies. These zombies can puff out flames, and some of their rooms may contain boss monsters that drop new recipes and shield set items. Also, sandstorms hinder heroes' seeing ability, adding extra challenge to the mode. In Base Defense, heroes defend supply bases against a horde of demons. In order to overcome the challenge, heroes are required to work with other heroes to ensure the safety of the bases. If the heroes manage to defend the bases, they will receive rewards ranging from palladium to rare set items or legendary items, depending on how well they manage to defend the bases. Re-opening of Hell Mode Ask, and thou shall receive. Heroes wanting more challenge from Hellgate Tokyo will now be able to play in Hell Mode, with the chance of better loot and experience from upgraded mobs and bosses. Hellgate Global crosses new borders with its latest expansion, Hellgate Tokyo. New maps, items, achievements, and bosses will be introduced with the expansion. Heroes around the world now unite to survive and win against the threat of annihilation from the destruction wrought by demons from hell. Hellgate Tokyo brings with it new challenges that heroes will be dying for!

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MMO Updates

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• Veteran EVE Online players share wisdom with new players
• Play Eden Eternal with free Aeria Points from Massively!
• Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview
• Storyboard: Duel me!
• The Daily Grind: Are you an achievement junkie?
• The MMO Report: Unwanted guests from Connecticut edition
• Champions Online lets you vie for the kingship on a hill
• Lord of the Rings Online still not available in China
• Ask Massively: Ham edition
• Caravan security missions marching to Final Fantasy XIV
• Behind the Mask: Fictional guns are lame
• Functional improvements coming to the store for Lord of the Rings Online
• The Guild Counsel: Can GW2's multiple guild feature work for other MMOs?
• First WildStar Wednesday dev diary takes fans through creature creation
• Yoogames yoinks assets from EVE Online and others, faces retribution
• One Shots: Starting slow
• Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Engineer
• Aventurine publishes Darkfall siege system dev notes, manual
• Clone Wars Adventures announces eight million users, upcoming content
• Hellgate expanding to Tokyo on September 22nd
• MMO subscription dollars in decline for the first time since 2002

Veteran EVE Online players share wisdom with new players Posted: 16 Sep 2011 10:00 AM PDT Filed under: Sci-fi, EVE Online, Game mechanics, MMO industry, News items, Sandbox If you're looking for an excuse to visit the recently revamped EVE Online official forums, you could do a lot worse than a newbie help thread started by CCP Fallout. Whether you're an actual New Eden rookie, or a veteran looking to dispense advice (note we didn't say good advice, since it's EVE), it's worth checking out. The thread is also good for a bit o' the ol' nostalgia, as Fallout specifically mentions silly mistakes he made back in the day, and he invites other players to share similar stories. The thread is fairly modest to this point (i.e., it's definitely not approaching threadnaught territory), but we suspect it will swell a bit as more vets weigh in with stories, pointers, and trolling attempts. Veteran EVE Online players share wisdom with new players originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Play Eden Eternal with free Aeria Points from Massively! Posted: 16 Sep 2011 09:00 AM PDT Filed under: Fantasy, Free-to-play, Giveaways Eden Eternal has been keeping the Massively staff highly entertained for a while now, what with the ongoing updates to content and races. The latest update brought us the frog-like Anuran race as well as the addition of crafting specialties for each race. Haven't tried the game yet? There's no better time, particularly since Aeria Games has given us a pile of ePins worth 300 Aeria Points each. As always, we're sharing with you, and getting one couldn't be easier. Simply head to our giveaway page to pick up your ePin code, then log in to your Aeria Games account. Go to the shop, enter your code in the prepaid ePin field, and you're all set! Play Eden Eternal with free Aeria Points from Massively! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview Posted: 16 Sep 2011 08:00 AM PDT Filed under: Fantasy, Sci-fi, Game mechanics, Interviews, New titles, Massively Interviews, Some Assembly Required, Sandbox "This will be the world's best game ever ever ever!" -Michael Dunham. You tell 'em! Honestly, we have heard it before: MMORPG feature lists that promise what our sandbox-loving hearts desire. Try as we might, we cannot escape those sneaky tendrils of hope that find the chinks in our +10 jaded armor of cynicism as we read about the return of a true virtual where actions have consequences, personal choices dictate gameplay, and individuality is a matter of principle. Sadly, time and time again those hopes are dashed by titles that either cannot deliver on their promises or never even survive until launch. The same is true for the developers at Burning Dog Media; they too have ridden the roller coaster of sandbox dreams and harbored in their hearts a vision of their ultimate game if only they had the wherewithal to produce it. The difference between them and us is... they do! Welcome to issue #6 of Some Assembly Required -- an exclusive interview with Michael Dunham and Dave Cruikshank -- Lead Developer and Art Director of Burning Dog Media, respectively -- who are in the midst of developing the new sci-fi/fantasy MMORPG Origins of Malu. Originally called just Origins (the change was to help avoid confusion with other projects that were cropping up with similar titles), this game previously teased sandbox aficionados with a glimpse at some hope-stirring features. Today, we have the privilege of expounding on "coming soon" and revealing more features that not only are planned but are for the most part implemented. So why should we check out Origins of Malu? And what tantalizing tidbits of sandboxy goodness can we expect? Grab onto that hope and dive past the cut -- if you dare -- to see what Michael and Dave have to share. Gallery: Origins of Malu Continue reading Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Storyboard: Duel me! Posted: 16 Sep 2011 07:00 AM PDT Filed under: Game mechanics, PvP, Opinion, Roleplaying, Storyboard, Miscellaneous Let it never be said that roleplaying lacks drama if it has no violence. Many times, the confrontations and conflicts in roleplaying happen without a single threat of physical injury or even interaction. Even when threats are involved, frequently that's all there is -- a threat, a wayward mention, a confident statement that if one party undertakes an action, there will be very short and brutal repercussions. Not every scene, or even most scenes, end with characters locked in combat. That having been said, when you have a couple of characters whose day-to-day lives involve turning vicious critters into fine red mist, sooner or later someone is going to solve other problems with the same toolset. It's not like violence isn't a valid means of dramatic expression; look at how many of Shakespeare's plays ended with some kind of swordfight if you really need backup. (Several of them, and the ones that don't merely lacked a way to add in a CGI army at the end.) The problem is more that MMOs do not handle this sort of conflict between players very well, if at all. Continue reading Storyboard: Duel me! Storyboard: Duel me! originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

The Daily Grind: Are you an achievement junkie? Posted: 16 Sep 2011 06:00 AM PDT Filed under: Opinion, The Daily Grind, Miscellaneous If you're an Xbox Live player, you're well aware of the power of achievements. They help you show off your versatility, dedication, and overall badassery to your friends. In MMOs, these achievements can unlock certain skills, cosmetic items, or even content. We love our carrot-on-a-stick, but we love it even more if we can grab a bite every so often. These achievements don't always mean everything to everyone. Many players couldn't care less about a gamer score or special unlocks; they just want to play the game and enjoy themselves. So we're curious to know how you feel. Do you live for achievements, or could you do without them altogether? [Photo Credit: Rotten Tomatoes forums] Every morning, the Massively bloggers probe the minds of their readers with deep, thought-provoking questions about that most serious of topics: massively online gaming. We crave your opinions, so grab your caffeinated beverage of choice and chime in on today's Daily Grind! The Daily Grind: Are you an achievement junkie? originally appeared on Massively on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

The MMO Report: Unwanted guests from Connecticut edition Posted: 15 Sep 2011 08:00 PM PDT Filed under: Fantasy, Sci-fi, Video, City of Heroes, Dungeons and Dragons Online, Free-to-play, Humor, Star Wars: The Old Republic, RIFT, The MMO Report, Miscellaneous This week's MMO Report finds host Casey Schreiner in fine form despite the disconcerting presence of another neck-bearded nerd crowding the camera during the show's opening monologue. The interloper turns out to be Schreiner's cousin Dave, who is apparently taking our intrepid host up on last week's hospitality offer. Never fear, though, there is some MMO news to be had during the show's eight-minute running time. City of Heroes and its upcoming free-to-play conversion gets a mention, as does the Star Wars The Old Republic trailer focused on Smugglers (whom Casey says will "kick you in the nuts, tag you with a sticky grenade, and laugh in your face as you fall to your knees in agony"). There's also a blurb about Dungeons and Dragons Online's new update, RIFT's latest promotion, Minecraft's adventure pack, and of course Uncle Casey's mailbag. Check it out after the break. Continue reading The MMO Report: Unwanted guests from Connecticut edition The MMO Report: Unwanted guests from Connecticut edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Champions Online lets you vie for the kingship on a hill Posted: 15 Sep 2011 07:00 PM PDT Filed under: Super-hero, Video, PvP, News items, Free-to-play, Champions Online Who doesn't want to be recognized as the king of a hill? No matter where you go, as long as people can see the hill, they will know that the hill is all yours. That's probably not quite why Champions Online has added its brand-new King of the Hill PvP mode to the game, but it's certainly on the list. It's a chance for heroes to fight for dominance of a given point, with the attackers steadily gaining in power as the defenders struggle to hold their spot for seven minutes. Wondering how the mode came into being or just want to see how it will play? Then peek past the break for a video walkthrough of this new opportunity to take up arms against your fellow costumed crusaders. Or take a look at the recent Behind the Mask column covering just this mode, which should put you well on your way to asserting dominance over the hill of your choice. It's good to be the king. Continue reading Champions Online lets you vie for the kingship on a hill Champions Online lets you vie for the kingship on a hill originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Lord of the Rings Online still not available in China Posted: 15 Sep 2011 06:30 PM PDT Filed under: Fantasy, Lord of the Rings Online, MMO industry, News items, Free-to-play, Miscellaneous When it comes to mammoth western themepark MMOs and the Chinese gaming market, apparently there can be only one. And that one isn't named Lord of the Rings Online (or Highlander Online, sadly). CDC Corporation initially entered into an agreement to distribute Turbine's Tolkien-inspired MMORPG to Chinese gamers in 2006. Five years later, the game still has not seen the light of day, and Turbine has pulled the plug on the arrangement as a result. CDC spent approximately $10 million on "licensing, development, and other costs," but has nothing to show for the expenditures. Don't cry too hard for Turbine, though, as the Boston-based developer pocketed the $4 million non-refundable licensing fee. Lord of the Rings Online still not available in China originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Ask Massively: Ham edition Posted: 15 Sep 2011 06:00 PM PDT Filed under: Opinion, Massively meta, Ask Massively, Miscellaneous Readers, today is a sad day indeed. Having exhausted my longstanding well of topics that were either based in Dadaist absurdity or random personal anecdotes, I'm left to unveil my most desperate weapon -- an edition based entirely on ham. Consider the ham. Within the ham there could be the answers to all of life's questions, or perhaps there's just salty meat with a light mustard and honey glaze to create a firm yet not crispy exterior. Which is the truth? We'll never know. You will, however, know a bit more about what's going on behind the scenes of the site with this week's edition of Ask Massively. Sadly, we don't have our usual assortment of site gossip, but we do have answers about a few features and some discussion of the upcoming online-maybe Dragon Quest X. As always, you can leave questions in the comments or mail them along to ask@massively.com for a future column. Continue reading Ask Massively: Ham edition Ask Massively: Ham edition originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Caravan security missions marching to Final Fantasy XIV Posted: 15 Sep 2011 05:30 PM PDT Filed under: Fantasy, Patches, Previews, News items, Consoles, Final Fantasy XIV The list of features being added to Final Fantasy XIV in patch 1.19 just keeps growing. Not only will players be able to ride on the back of a chocobo, but a new set of missions for caravan defense will let players beat marauding fiends away from those selfsame yellow birds. And there are even Grand Company seals to be obtained in the exchange, which just sweetens the deal for players investing time and effort into the system. Each of the Grand Companies will have a different caravan to protect and will enlist the aid of full members in ensuring the caravan's safety during its march from an aetheryte camp to one of the nearby hamlets. Monsters will attack the caravan in turn, sometimes driving off birds and sometimes outright damaging the cargo, and it will be up to players to feed, calm, and protect the chocobos laden with supplies. Once the caravan arrives at its destination, players will receive seals based on how much cargo actually made it to its objective -- a chance to earn more currency and get some nice experience out of the event. Caravan security missions marching to Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Behind the Mask: Fictional guns are lame Posted: 15 Sep 2011 05:00 PM PDT Filed under: Super-hero, Lore, Opinion, Free-to-play, Champions Online, Behind the Mask Out of all my issues with modern roleplaying, the inaccurate portrayal of firearms is very near and dear to my heart. Champions Online is a pretty big offender in this regard. One of the most important things that we forget to realize about games in modern settings is that in the real world, guns are tremendously destructive. Although this is more of a general roleplaying issue and not limited to CO, I feel it's worth touching on. Is it so weird to wonder why superpowered groups like VIPER or UNTIL use energy blasters instead of firearms? Hit the jump and we'll talk about why the U-KTF blaster rifles don't hold a candle to things that exist in the real world. Continue reading Behind the Mask: Fictional guns are lame Behind the Mask: Fictional guns are lame originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Functional improvements coming to the store for Lord of the Rings Online Posted: 15 Sep 2011 04:30 PM PDT Filed under: Fantasy, Lord of the Rings Online, Previews, News items, Free-to-play The store for Lord of the Rings Online is probably not the sort of epic adventure you think of when you consider Middle-earth. But it's an integral part of the game's setup now that it's moved over to free-to-play, and so it's in the best interests of Turbine Entertainment to make the store as easy to navigate and productive as possible. To that end, the team has announced a set of coming updates that should help players navigate the store, make purchases, and manage those purchases with the greatest of ease. The two biggest additions at a glance are the inclusion of a Quick Buy button and an Add to Cart button, with the former saving the need for a shopping cart trick and the latter allowing you to stay on the page after adding the item. Also added are a Recent Buy tab and some improvements to the visual elements of the store, making it easier for players to see which categories have additional items. No, it's not quite as exciting as slaying dragons and Uruk-Hai, but it should make it a little easier to buy the gear to do so. Functional improvements coming to the store for Lord of the Rings Online originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

The Guild Counsel: Can GW2's multiple guild feature work for other MMOs? Posted: 15 Sep 2011 04:00 PM PDT Filed under: Guilds, Opinion, Guild Wars 2, The Guild Counsel, Miscellaneous Guild Wars 2 caused a stir recently at PAX when its devs announced their concept of multiple guilds. According to the news, guild membership will be account-wide, and players will be able to log in and browse the chat for each of the guilds to which they belong. In a recent installment of Flameseeker Chronicles, Rubi gave a great rundown of the pros and cons of a multiple guild system. While there are still a lot of details yet to be revealed, Guild Wars 2 is changing the way players view guilds. But what about all of the other MMOs currently out there that we all know and love? If you're a guild leader, chances are that you've already dealt with the question of whether to allow members to have characters in other guilds. Can it work, or is it a recipe for drama? In this week's Guild Counsel, we'll look back at how far guilds have come and whether allowing for multiple tags can work in current MMOs. Continue reading The Guild Counsel: Can GW2's multiple guild feature work for other MMOs? The Guild Counsel: Can GW2's multiple guild feature work for other MMOs? originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

First WildStar Wednesday dev diary takes fans through creature creation Posted: 15 Sep 2011 03:30 PM PDT Filed under: Fantasy, Sci-fi, News items, Dev Diaries, WildStar Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the first (of many, we hope) WildStar Wednesday. The magnificent Robert "Robeardo" Land and the fabulous Andy Cotnam from Carbine Studios have collaborated on a short dev diary to kick things off after WildStar's recent official announcement and convention circuit. The diary focuses on the creation of a WildStar boss by the name of Metal Maw. Metal Maw, for the uninitiated, was conceived at Gamescom during a live drawing session featuring Mr. Cotnam, with the help of some fan input. Now that the creature has been created, Cotnam takes fans through the process of bringing a boss monster from the page to the game. For the full process -- and some lovely concept art, to boot -- head on over to the official dev diary. First WildStar Wednesday dev diary takes fans through creature creation originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Yoogames yoinks assets from EVE Online and others, faces retribution Posted: 15 Sep 2011 03:00 PM PDT Filed under: EVE Online, Culture, MMO industry, News items, Legal, Miscellaneous Let's get ready for a lawsuit! Yoogames has been called out on the EVE Online forums for using images from EVE in order to promote its own game, Planet War. But it's not just EVE Online getting ripped off here; keen-eyed forum-goers have spotted pictures of StarCraft 2's Protoss Yo-Mommaship and Star Wars' Trade Federation space station. What will become of this, no one knows... oh, who are we kidding? This is lawsuit city. CCP's own CCP Fallout stopped by the thread to thank the OP for pointing out the infringement and to say that he is "notifying the relevant parties in the company." So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show. We'll be sure to bring you the latest in courtroom entertainment as it develops. Yoogames yoinks assets from EVE Online and others, faces retribution originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

One Shots: Starting slow Posted: 15 Sep 2011 02:00 PM PDT Filed under: Super-hero, Galleries, Screenshots, City of Heroes There's a lot to be said for a game that throws you right into the heavy action straight from character creation, but it's good to have an option for those who favor a slightly more peaceful beginning. City of Heroes player Clark is one of the latter: This picture is of Galaxy City. When you first create a hero, you have a choice between Atlas Park and Galaxy City. I always picked Galaxy City for my starter zone because I liked the sort of calmness that the place had compared to Atlas Park's hustle and bustle. It's too bad that come I21 that calmness will be disturbed. I'm gonna miss this little city. It's starting zone week here at One Shots. First impressions are a big deal, so many developers put a lot into that first zone you see. Show us a screenshot of your favorite starting zone -- add your name and a little bit about the image, send it in to oneshots@massively.com, and we'll feature it in this week's One Shots! If you want to get a jump on next week, we'll be taking to the skies. One Shots will be all about aerial shots, whether they're taken from atop a high-flying mount or on the ground while viewing the action in the air. Send your image in and we'll show it off next week. Gallery: One Shots: 2011 One Shots: Starting slow originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Engineer Posted: 15 Sep 2011 01:00 PM PDT Filed under: Sci-fi, Classes, Opinion, Star Trek Online, Captain's Log, Guides Captain's Log, Stardate 65205.7... Hello, computer (and players)! As you may or may not know, the Star Trek franchise celebrated a momentous birthday last week as it turned 45 years old. While humankind first set out to "boldly going where no one has gone before" in the late 1960s, its legacy lives on today, four decades later, through Star Trek Online. Although the game has had its fair shares of ups and downs, I am not afraid to stand behind it and be proud of it for being able to continue Gene Roddenberry's dream. I am also extremely honored to play a small part in its history by bringing you Captain's Log each week, and I look forward to what the next 45 years hold. I'd like to welcome each of you to the third and final installment of my three-part series focusing on the classes within STO. After checking out the awesome DPS that Tactical captains can dish out a couple of weeks back, we now shift our focus to the Scottys, LaForges, Obriens, and Torreses of the game -- the Engineering captains. Players taking on this role often find themselves having a blast, literally, as they materialize their defense and medical turrets, call on their support and seeker drones, and deploy their force fields and cover shields. While there are a variety of powers that this career can utilize, I would like to showcase a few of them past the jump. Ensign, warp... actually, no; it's actually time to realign the dilithium matrix... Continue reading Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Engineer Captain's Log: Class spotlight - Engineer originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Aventurine publishes Darkfall siege system dev notes, manual Posted: 15 Sep 2011 12:30 PM PDT Filed under: Fantasy, Darkfall, Game mechanics, MMO industry, Patches, News items, Sandbox Yes, yes, Darkfall's getting a new siege system. You've heard this many times before, amirite? Well, today we're happy to report that the details are now public knowledge. Aventurine has jumped the gun on its usual Friday update window and posted the dev notes for the siege patch (as well as a lengthy PDF manual) on the Darkfall website. Highlights include a breakdown of the new attacker/defender roles for clans, information on initiating and progressing challenges, and a bit about the new wager system. It's clear that Aventurine has completely rewritten the old siege mechanics, and the manual document touches on why such a huge change was necessary. "The key reason for this was to remove any hard limits imposed by the system, and make this whole aspect of the game much more open and free for all players to enjoy." Aventurine publishes Darkfall siege system dev notes, manual originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Clone Wars Adventures announces eight million users, upcoming content Posted: 15 Sep 2011 12:00 PM PDT Filed under: Sci-fi, MMO industry, News items, Free-to-play, Casual, Clone Wars Adventures The other day, we announced Clone Wars Adventures' one-year anniversary celebration. However, it seems more celebration is in order. According to a press release today, the game is also celebrating over eight million registered players. On top of that, the press release gives us a sneak peek at upcoming content. The television series' fourth season will begin tomorrow, September 16th, and will focus on Mon Calamari, the home planet of everyone's favorite Admiral. As such, the game will feature content such as Mission on Iceberg 3, which presents a storyline that sets the stage for the TV Series. In addition, the game will be adding a minigame called Aquatic Assault, which puts players in the boots of the famous Nautolan Jedi Kit Fisto as he pilots his Diver Propulsion Vehicle against waves of Aqua Droids, Quarren, and Karkaradon. The game's one-year anniversary celebration is going on now. To get in on the festivities, head on over to the game's official site and sign up. [Source: SOE Press release] Clone Wars Adventures announces eight million users, upcoming content originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

Hellgate expanding to Tokyo on September 22nd Posted: 15 Sep 2011 11:00 AM PDT Filed under: Fantasy, Horror, Expansions, Game mechanics, Patches, Hellgate: London, Free-to-play, Dungeons If you were wondering why HanbitSoft and T3Fun rechristened Hellgate: London as Hellgate: Global prior to resurrecting it as a free-to-play title earlier this summer, now you know. The action-horror MMO is expanding to a new burned-out husk of a metropolis, and on September 22nd, you're invited to partake in more grisly demon-slaying action in what remains of post-apocalyptic Tokyo. The city features 24 new levels as well as new monsters and boss mobs. There are also a couple of new game modes on tap, including Cow Room (which pits players against hordes of zombies) and Base Defense (which is exactly what it sounds like). Finally, Hell Mode gets an encore, and hardcore types who want better loot, more XP, and more it'll-put-hair-on-your-virtual-chest challenge are welcome to queue up and prove their e-manliness. [Source: T3Fun/HanbitSoft press release] Hellgate expanding to Tokyo on September 22nd originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

MMO subscription dollars in decline for the first time since 2002 Posted: 15 Sep 2011 10:30 AM PDT Filed under: Economy, MMO industry, Miscellaneous With all of the free-to-play MMOs coming onto the market and the F2P conversion of formerly subscription-only titles, it should come as no surprise that the subscription model is losing its grip on the industry. Eurogamer reports that starting in 2010, the money brought in from MMO subscriptions has actually gone into decline for the first time ever since analysts began tracking it in 2002. 2010's subscription revenue added up to $1.58 billion, a respectable amount but still 5% less than 2009. 2009 saw a 10% bump in subscriptions, and 2008 witnessed 21.6% growth. Connect the dots, and subscription revenue has most likely peaked and begun a downhill slide. Analysts predict that by 2015, revenue from subs will be as low as $1.33 billion. However, with the popularity of RIFT this year and the coming storm of Star Wars: The Old Republic, the subscription model may see a resurgence. On the flip side, microtransactions from F2P models are rising exponentially, jumping 24% from 2009 to 2010 to account for $1.13 billion. With the two models combined, the industry saw a very modest 5% increase last year in revenue. Screen Digest analyst Piers Harding-Rolls sees the writing on the wall: "The focus of many PC game operators has clearly shifted to micro-transaction‐based models -- in part due to competition in the subscription market especially in the high‐end MMOG segment, but also because of the flexibility micro-transactions offer operators in monetising gamers." MMO subscription dollars in decline for the first time since 2002 originally appeared on Massively on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments

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