General Gaming Article

General Gaming Article


Social Analyzer App "ThinkUp" Hits Version 1.0

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 03:01 PM PST

thinkupThere's no denying that social media has changed the way a lot of people conduct business and relationships. Although, organizing all that valuable data is a major pain. Software developer and former Lifehacker Gina Trapani has been working to change that with ThinkUp, a server-based app that assembles, archives, and analyzes your social life. ThinkUp shed its beta label today as it hit 1.0.

ThinkUp can be used to aggregate data from Twitter, Facebook, and Google+. Once that data is stored safely on a ThinkUp server, it can be parsed in various ways with easy searching, and data visualization charts. It can even read geocodes attached to postings and can show them on a map. Users can take any conversation, or bit of data and embed it on a website or blog.

In the future, ThinkUp will become more extensible with support for plug-ins, and hopefully easier set up. The new version can also be run on Amazon EC2. ThinkUp is free and open source, so take a look if the tweets are overwhelming you.

A Kindle Fire Meets Its End At The Hands of iFixit

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 02:47 PM PST

kindle fireThe Kindle Fire is likely to be a hot item this holiday season, but you don't want to take yours apart just to see how it works. Luckily, iFixit has a Kindle Fire that was destined for such a fate. They report that the Fire is quite easy to take apart, not unlike the very similar BlackBerry PlayBook. 

So iFixit has sorted out who makes what in the Kindle Fire, which will soon let them assemble a definitive parts list and build price. There is the Texas Instruments SoC at the heart, along with Samsung RAM, and an LG screen in the Fire. A big plus for repairability is the easily removable screen which is not glued to the glass as it is in many other devices.

Unsurprisingly, a large portion of the innards are taken up by a battery packing 4400mAh. The main board is at the bottom of the device, and the casing comes apart in tow solid pieces with a little prying. Check out iFixit, which is still updating with additional pics of the teardown. 

Facebook Feed Getting Too Adult? It's Not Just You

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 02:29 PM PST

fbIt's not uncommon to see a free iPad scam pop up in your Facebook feed, but the latest apparent hack is a little more about shock than profit. An as yet unknown attack appears to be flooding some users' feeds with images of gore and pornography. Facebook has acknowledged an increase in reports of such content, and is investigating.

Early indications from Facebook engineers point to a coordinated attack of unknown origin using cross-site scripting (XSS). Many Facebook threats spread through the use of click-bait and faked links that then hijack an account. The primary purpose for these attacks is financial gain, but this time the attackers seem to just be riling people up.

Anonymous has been put forth as a possible perpetrator, but the hacktivist groups usually takes responsibility for its shenanigans. Users that have been compromised can find a tutorial to fix the situation here. Anyone seen anything untoward in a Facebook feed lately?

Is Your SATA Cable Slowing Down Your Data Transfers? Max PC Investigates

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 01:04 PM PST

Is your SATA cable slowing you down? Maximum PC investigates

We had a recent incident in our lab where SATA 6Gb/s performance inexplicably dropped going from one motherboard to the next. In theory, both boards should have offered the same performance on the SATA 6Gb/s port as both used the same south bridge chip in the board and the same SSD. When we couldn't diagnose it as drivers or a mis-configured benchmark run, we decided to swap out the SATA cable for a "real" SATA 6Gb/s cable. Like magic, the performance went back to what we expected.

This got us wondering if there is actually a need to run "real" SATA 6GB/s cables with high performance SSDs. The official word from the SATA International Organization is no, not at all. The SATA I/O lays it out in its FAQ: "Question: Does SATA 6Gb/s require different connectors and cables to support the higher transfer speed? Answer: The same cables and connectors used for current SATA 1.5 and SATA 3.0 Gb/s implementations can be used to connect SATA 6Gb/s devices, although SATA-IO recommends quality components be selected to ensure data integrity and robust operation at the faster SATA 6Gb/s transfer rate. Keeping the existing SATA connector form factor enables SATA 6Gb/s to be designed into the same cost-conscious hardware architectures while minimizing infrastructure changes."

If you think about it, that's a pretty amazing feat. SATA 150 on motherboards dates back to at least 2002. It's almost like asking a cable that you bought for USB in 1997 to handle the throughput of USB 3.0. Hell, even Parallel ATA went through several revisions including those much coveted 80-conductor cables. Over its lifetime.

To put SATA to the test, we grabbed a fistful of cables including two that date back to the early days of SATA. How do we know they're that old? While the cables aren't dated, we pulled them out of vintage motherboard boxes that have been moldering in our lab. One was an Intel 875P board, the other an nForce 2 board. The rest were culled from the floor, cabinets and various places that SATA cables end up. One cable was an expensive Adaptec SATA cable that came with a RAID card, another a cheapo 36-inch (just short of the maximum length of 3.3 feet while another tested was a tiny pig-tail SATA cable with a run length of about 5-inches.  For a final fun test, we decided to use several SATA cable extenders to join several 36-inch SATA cables together—in effect creating a 9-foot SATA cable that we literally stretched across the room.

To conduct our test, we used an Asus motherboard with Intel's latest peripheral controller hub and its blisteringly fast SATA 6Gb/s performance. The drive we tapped was a 240GB OWC Mercury Extreme Pro SSD. The Mercury Extreme Pro uses a Sandforce 2nd gen controller and is among the fastest SSDs for sale today. To measure the performance we used CrystalDiskMark 3.0.1 and ran the benchmarks' sequential read and write score three times. All of the cables were plugged into the same SATA port.

The Verdict

Let's first say that when we started this, we were absolutely sure we'd see a difference. Afterall, moving to an authentic SATA 6Gb/s cable cleared up our problems the first time right? Wrong. As we worked our way through the first few cables, we began to realize that the SATA I/O did its work when it first put together the Serial ATA spec for cables. There is virtually no difference between a brand-new SATA 6Gb/s marked cable made this year and one produced nearly eight years ago as far as performance goes. Expensive cable, cheap cable; long cable, short cable—none of it seemingly made a real difference. If anything, the minor variances in performance can be attributed to variances in the benchmark or the SSD.

During our testing, we also tested out a couple of often not recommended practices: bending your SATA cable at right angles. Many motherboard vendors recommend against putting right-angles into the cables during system builds so we took a cable and put about 15 right-angle kinks in it: no difference. We also took a 36-inch cable and tightly wrapped around a hot PSU cable: no difference.

What about joining two 36-inch cables end-to-end using male-to-male connectors? That's about 30-inches outside the SATA spec for cable length: No. Frakking. Difference.  The only thing that stopped SATA dead in its tracks was running three 36-inch SATA cables end-to-end using cable No. 3, No. 4 and No 11. That's nine feet of cables kids. Don't try this at home!

Since we didn't want to just bunch it up on the desk, we stretched it across the lab and then used a remote PSU to run the OWC Mercury Extreme Pro drive. Surprisingly, we saw roughly 250MB/s read speeds but write speeds, where we suspect the controller and protocol are a little more stringent plunged down to 25MB/s. The benchmark ultimately failed due to read and write errors to the device. It didn't always fail, but we wouldn't entrust our data to it.

So what does this tell us? The SATA cable is an incredibly robust cable. It's the cockroach or AK of computer cables. That's not bad and we certainly wish all computer cables performed that way. We've certainly had our share of wonky USB support thanks to really borderline USB cables.

But what about our original motherboard test where switching cables fixed it? Looking at our data now, we suspect the more likely culprit was a bad cable, a dirty connector or a connector that wasn't seated. It's a reminder that a single instance isn't enough to create a trend. Our hats off to the SATA I/O for a pretty damned robust cable spec.

Benchmarks
Read (MB/s) Write (MB/s)
Cable No. 1 508 224
Cable No. 2 507 222
Cable No. 3 508 225
Cable No. 4 505 230
Cable No. 5 509 222
Cable No. 6 506 222
Cable No. 7 506 224
Cable No. 8 506 224
Cable No. 9 505 223
Cable No. 10 509 233
Cable No. 11 508 223
Cable No. 12 509 224
72-inch SATA cable conversion 510 223
108-inch SATA cable conversion Fail Fail

Our tests were performed with a 240GB OWC Mercury Pro SSD on an Intel SATA 6Gb/s controller.

No BS Podcast #181: Turning The Heat Up To 11

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 12:40 PM PST

If you'll recall, we lost 20 minutes of the last No BS Podcast to the Macbook Pro in the podcast recording studio. For this week's episode, it ate a mere 10 minutes of the rant. So thank you, Macbook, for screwing us somewhat less than you did last time. But don't fret--even without those 10 minutes, you're getting a solid hour of news and discussion about ultrabooks, Battlefield 3, the most high-tech thermostat ever, and more.

Computer trouble? Star Trek argument? Need advice? Just need to get something off your chest? A secret to share? Email us at maximumpcpodcast@gmail.com or call our 24-hour No BS Podcast hotline at 877.404.1337 x1337--operators are not standing by.

 

Android App of the Week – DoubleTwist Player

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 11:21 AM PST

Despite Android's majority market share, Android lags behind both iOS and Windows Phone when it comes to its music ecosystem and stock apps. The flip side of this coin are the third-party developers who can create music apps that take advantage of the openness of the Android platform. One of the best third-party music apps for Android is the freshly updated DoubleTwist.

Many mobile developers struggle to find the balance between offering a usable interface for a small touch screen and providing enough features to contend with the competition. DoubleTwist does an admirable job providing the most popular functions on the surface of the app without overwhelming the user, but still letting power users access all of the features and tools they desire.

With the latest update (1.6.1), DoubleTwist improves with a redesigned home screen and offers quick access to your favorite artists, albums, songs, and playlists. The "playing" screen now displays album art, and allows you to swipe to the left or right to switch tracks.

 

Premium upgrades for DoubleTwist provide additional functionality at a cost. AirSync lets you wirelessly synchronize music from your PC to your Android, and will also stream your media to an Xbox, PS3, or Apple TV. The Music Lover upgrade adds a graphic equalizer, letting you fine-tune your sound to your listening preferences.

Get DoubleTwist Player from the Android Market as a free download. Upgrades are available as in-app downloads for $4.99 each, or as a bundle for $8.99.

 

Fast Forward: Underclocking to Save Energy

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 11:08 AM PST

Not many of us could convince our bosses that we're most efficient when working slowly. But then, we aren't microprocessors. For decades, researchers have known that processors achieve peak energy efficiency when their transistors operate at very low voltages near the threshold between their on and off states. Unfortunately, the circuits also become unstable at those low voltages. Nevertheless, Intel is trying to apply that research to future products.

The technology is called near-threshold voltage (NTV) computing. In effect, it's extreme underclocking. PC users are more familiar with overclocking—cranking up the processor's clock frequency and/or voltage to squeeze out more performance. Although overclocking works, it consumes more power—a small price to pay when we're hungry for speed.

However, the price isn't always small. Big data centers are sometimes limited by the electrical grid's local capacity, and their cooling often gobbles more power than the servers do. At the other end of the spectrum, mobile devices must save energy to lengthen battery life and to keep from becoming too hot to handle.

Today's processors can't operate much below 1.0V. Intel has an experimental x86 processor (Claremont) rumored to work at 0.6–0.7V. Although that difference may seem tiny, it's actually huge. Intel says the chip remains fully active (not in sleep mode) while sipping less than 10 milliwatts—low enough to run on a small solar cell.

The sacrifice is raw performance. Clock speed drops dramatically, but power efficiency (performance per watt) is five times higher. When more performance is needed, boosting the voltage drives the processor to its full clock speed.

Future processors could run some or all CPU cores at NTV levels most of the time. Stabilizing the circuits requires fine-tuning, though. With its own fabs, Intel has a potential advantage over competitors that outsource manufacturing to independent foundries.

Microsoft Tweaks Windows Update's Automatic Restarts In Windows 8

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 10:53 AM PST

One of the minor annoyances of computer usage is needing to restart your computer. Yeah, it doesn't take too long – especially if you have a speedy SSD drive – but it's still downtime that interrupts your previously scheduled Skyrim time. Microsoft has been working to reduce the number of restarts required to run a computer, buy hey, they still need to happen every now and again. Windows 8 will make some changes to the Windows Update and automatic restart process to make restarts as infrequent and unobtrusive as possible.

Unless a critical update is pushed out, your Windows 8 PC will only restart once per month, on Patch Tuesday. "With this improvement, it does not matter when updates that require restarts are released in a month, since these restarts will wait till the security release," Microsoft's Farzana Rahman writes on the Building Windows 8 blog.

Once the security update is downloaded, Windows 8 will prompt you to install the updates and restart your PC for three days, using a message on the login screen. "You will no longer see any pop-up notifications or dialogs about pending restarts," Rahman writes, so you won't have to worry about a prompt interrupting you in the midst of a streaming movie – or an important business presentation.

If you haven't told the computer to restart by the end of those three days, Windows 8 will restart your computer automatically. If you have any "critical applications" open, it won't automatically restart until the next time you log in, at which point a 15 minute countdown timer will be displayed and you'll  be warned to save your data before time runs out. You won't be able to postponethe restart the way you can on current Windows 7 and Vista.

So, Maximum PC readers, will you miss the ability to delay restarts in Windows 8 (beyond the three days, that is), or does the lack of in-use prompts make up for it?

Kingston Launches HyperX Genesis Memory Kits for Sandy Bridge-E

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 10:41 AM PST

Assuming you decide to build a new PC around Intel's Sandy Bridge-E platform or upgrade your existing rig to X79, one thing you won't have to worry about is finding quad-channel memory kits. Plenty of memory makers have stepped to the plate with four and eight DIMM kits, including Kingston, which launched a range of quad-channel HyperX Genesis DDR3 kits in 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB capacities.

There are ten new kits in all, starting with an 8GB package of DDR3-1333 memory for $65, and going all the way up to a 32GB kit of DDR3-1600 for $218. The most expensive memory kit is actually a 16GB package of DDR3-2133 RAM that's priced at $318.

"Our latest HyperX offerings are specifically made to maximize performance in Intel's new Core i7 3960X or 3930K processors with quad-channel memory support," said Mark Tekunoff, senior technology manager, Kingston. "HyperX Genesis for the X79 platform will scale new overclocking heights for extreme gamers, benchmarkers, content creators and enthusiasts."

More pricing information and details available here.

Image Credit: Kingston

Netflix Redesigns Streaming App for Android, iPad Overhaul Coming Soon

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 10:24 AM PST

Netflix today rolled out a fully redesigned version of its streaming application for tablets on all Android tablets, including the Kindle Fire and Nook Tablet. According to Netflix, the layout is "much more immersive" with a greater focus on titles in the company's catalog. Netflix also managed to squeeze twice as many movies and TV shows into the interface as before.

"Also, we've taken greater advantage of the tablet's unique features, inviting you to swipe through rows of titles featuring larger artwork," Netflix said in a blog post.

What about iPad users? Netflix said a version for iPad will be available "in the coming weeks," but didn't provide a release date.

Image Credit: Netflix

MMO News

MMO News


Bounty Hounds Online releases closed beta update

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 01:54 PM PST

After taking in player feedback, Bounty Hounds Online has created and launched a patch to improve the closed beta experience.

The experience curve has been tuned down to improve leveling time, and experience loss on death has been elimintated. New gathering robots have been introduced to help players gather resources, reward points can now be earned and spent in the Emporium, and characters of any PMC may join up together in groups.  Titles have now been boosted so that each unlocks stat-boosting accessories from the Arms Badge vendor, and CTUs have new paint colors available. Player versus player has also been tuned so that only players between different PMCs, who have active PvP flags, can fight each other. Five new Cambria instances, new gang and wolfpack technology, and new mission events round off the update.

Bounty Hounds Online is published by Suba Games, which also publishes Mission Against Terror and ACE Online.

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Bounty Hounds Online Gameplay Screenshot

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Bounty Hounds Rolls Out Major Updates for Closed Beta

More Content, More Customization Part of Latest Closed Beta Update to Triple-A-Level Free-to-Play MMORPG Sequel to Namco Bandai Original

TORONTO, ON. November 15, 2011— Bounty Hounds Online (bho.subagames.com) the popular MMORPG sequel to the Namco Bandai original, boosts its status as a game that brings triple-A quality to the free-to-play genre with a massive updates to its closed beta rollout.

“The beta testers that have been part of the close beta will notice the updates immediately,” said Sam Ho, Director, Wicked Interactive, publishers of Bounty Hounds Online. “We have been working hard with the developers to add new features as well as include suggestions from the Bounty Hounds community. We are thrilled with the results and know that our testers will be thrilled by the updates.”

Updates include:
More Content
·         Five high-level Cambria Instances to challenge the most experienced and deadly mercenary teams. Obtain unique Stat and Resistance-enhancing equipment. During open hours, Mordechai at the PMC Headquarters will teleport you straight in to the action.

·         More gang/wolfpack technology added. Receive powerful stats bonuses every day.

·         New missions and events. New level 35 mission in the Wastelands giving a stat reset item. New level 40 mission in the Wastelands giving a skill point reset item.
More Personalization
·         The Titles gamers have worked hard to earn mean something: they now unlock unique stat-boosting accessories, available from the Arms Badge vendors.

·         Trick out your CTU with more paint colours available -  no two CTUs need ever look the same.
More Convenience
·         The XP requirements for levelling have been adjusted so you'll spend less time grinding, and more time doing what you want. Numerous low-level quests have had their requirements adjusted to improve game flow.

·         Why spend time gathering your own resources? Use gathering robots at the PMC Headquarters to harvest craft materials for you while you concentrate on the mission. The number of robots useable simultaneously and the tier of resources they can harvest are tied to your gang/wolfpack skill tree.

·         Get equipped: certain items in the Emporium can now be purchased with reward points, earned daily and weekly for R&D, missions, and instances. The more you play, the more you get!

·         Team up: now characters of any PMC can join forces to take on tough assignments.

·         Player-vs-Player combat is now only possible between members of different PMCs. Only players with PvP flags activated are eligible to fight. This means only those who want to fight other players will do so. The PvP flag will be turned off automatically after resurrection.

·         Fight without fear: XP loss on character death has been eliminated.

Blacklight Retribution Gameplay Video – Dual Commentary HD

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 01:40 PM PST

To Learn More About the Game, Check out our Blacklight Retribution Page.

Blacklight Retribution is a 3D sci-fi themed MMOFPS game published by Perfect World Entertainment – the same publisher behind Rusty Hearts, Battle of the Immortals, War of the Immortals, Perfect World, Forsaken World, and many other free to play titles. Unlike some Perfect World Games, Blacklight Retribution isn’t developed by Perfect World, but rather by a Western company called Zombie Studios. The game blends RPG elements with FPS gameplay. With a good deal of weapon customization and a unique “Map / Radar” system Blacklight Retribution offers something that other FPS games like Alliance of Valiant Arms and Combat Arms simply don’t. To learn more about Blacklight Retribution check out the official MMOHut Blacklight Retribution page which includes a detailed review, tons of screenshots, and additional videos.

Update 6 arrives in DC Universe Online

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 01:38 PM PST

Update 6, “The Deadly Double Cross,” has launched today for DC Universe Online.

The update adds the final chapter of the Fortress of Solitude raid series, letting players join with Superman and Lex Luthor to defeat General Zodfor, and his companions Non and Ursa, in the Sunstone Matrix. The update also adds new Kryptonian Military weapons, and the last of the Avatar style set.

DC Universe Online is published by Sony Online Entertainment, which also publishes EverQuest and Free Realms.

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DC Universe Online Gameplay Screenshot

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DC UniverseTM Online's Game Update 6: The Deadly Double Cross Now Available
Players Can Battle Together In The Final Fortress Of Solitude Raid In DCUO's Latest Game Update

WHAT: The battle in the Arctic rages on as Sony Online Entertainment releases the third and final chapter of the DC Universe™ Online (DCUO)Fortress of Solitude raid series.

At the end of Game Update 5: The Fate of the Fortress, players had defeated Brainiac's invasion only to be betrayed by their former Kryptonian ally General Zod. The Deadly Double Cross will begin where players left off – trapped in the The Fortress of Solitude: Sunstone Matrix where General Zod has seized control of the Sun Crystal Matrix Chamber.

In the latest update, players will once again join forces with Superman and Lex Luthor in a heated battle to defeat double-crossing General Zodfor control over the Fortress of Solitude. Heroes and villains alike must team up to face the militant General Zod and his Kryptonian supervillain companions Non and Ursa.

In addition to the new raid chapter, Game Update 6 will add great new weapons and gear for players to earn in battle, including powerful new Kryptonian Military weapons forged from the Sunstone crystals themselves.

Game Update 6: The Deadly Double Cross Features:

§  Intense new Eight-Man Group Combat Raid – The Fortress of Solitude: Sunstone Matrix: Fight with Superman and Lex Luthor in their mission to take down General Zod and win back control of the Fortress of Solitude.
§  New Gear & Weapons: Players can battle for new weapons and armor, including powerful new Kryptonian Military weapons and the final pieces of the Avatar style set.

WHEN: The game update is now available as a free download for players at all three access levels: Free, Premium and Legendary.

The Mummy Online opens beta registration

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 01:14 PM PST

Bigpoint has opened up closed beta registration for the upcoming The Mummy Online (themummy.bigpoint.com). The closed beta is expected to last several weeks, although no exact starting date has been announced.

The beta will feature PvE and PvP gameplay, starting with a single-player tutorial that lets players choose their allegiance (Raider or Cultist) and class (Gunslinger/Assassin, Brawler/Enforcer, or Scholar/Priest). The map of Amarna in Egypt will be available, featuring the Dunes, River, Maze, and Rocky Fields regions. PvP players can face off at the Tomb, Oasis, and Ruins.

Bigpoint also publishes Battlestar Galactica Online and Drakensang Online.

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The Mummy Online Gameplay Screenshot

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Bigpoint Unearths The Mummy Online Closed Beta

Action-Adventure Gaming Fans can Sign-Up Now to Gain Exclusive Access before Worldwide Launch

San Francisco – Nov. 15, 2011 – Bigpoint (www.bigpoint.com) – a worldwide leader in online games – today announced that The Mummy Online (http://themummy.bigpoint.com/) has begun accepting registrations for its closed beta period. Developed in collaboration with Universal Partnerships & Licensing, The Mummy Online is a breakthrough, action-adventure RPG that delivers high-end gameplay through an engaging story inspired by the massively successful film franchise.

"We're excited to get The Mummy Online into the hands of the fans," said Arash Amini, Producer, Bigpoint. "As is the case with our entire portfolio of games, which can be improved and optimized on the fly, community feedback will be critical to this project's success."

Participants interested in joining The Mummy Online's exclusive closed beta can register for access at http://themummy.bigpoint.com/.  Once in-game, players will fight their way through a single-player tutorial level before selecting their allegiance (Raider or Cultist) and class (Gunslinger/Assassin, Brawler/Enforcer, or Scholar/Priest).  As players gain experience through both PvE and PvP gameplay, they will be able to learn new skills, unravel special capabilities, and purchase more powerful equipment.

Battle across Cinematic Environments

Based on the existing terrain of Egypt, players can explore the map of Amarna with several PvE regions that include the Dunes, River, Maze, and Rocky Fields.  Here, players will confront a range of monsters, including several types of scarabs, scorpions, pygmies, Anubis warriors, and mummies.  Within the PvP areas of the Tomb, Oasis, and Ruins, players can battle against players of opposing allegiances and capture ancient obelisks to dominate the playing field.

With the closed beta expected to last several weeks, Bigpoint will unlock player accounts in waves to ensure game stability and performance.  At the conclusion of the closed beta period, Bigpoint will review all feedback, optimize virtually every aspect of the game, and ready The Mummy Online for the official open beta launch.

Players are encouraged to follow the closed beta's progress and provide input through the community forum: http://en.board.bigpoint.com/mummy/.

Dragon Nest prepares Theater of War

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 12:59 PM PST

Dragon Nest’s next major update, “Theater of War,” is being scheduled for launch on Monday, November 21.

The update will focus primarily on PvP, updating some of the game’s current PvP modes. It will also introduce the new Protect-the-Captain mode, where team leaders are the ultimate asset to victory; free-for-all, letting up to 16 players battle it out in a death match; and a three-on-three Ladder mode. Ghoul Mode will also be improved, and medals and experience can now be granted from a player’s power bar if they choose.

Two new dungeons will also be introduced: Chaos Rift Kamala, for level 24+ on Abyss Mode only, and Chaos Rift Viera, an Abyss Mode dungeon for players at the level cap of 32. Both dungeons change their layout each time a player enters.

Dragon Nest is published by Nexon, which also publishes Vindictus and Mabinogi.

dragon_nest_kamala_06

Dragon Nest Gameplay Screenshot

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Dragon Nest Players Prepare to Enter the "Theater of War"

Nexon releases new video showcasing upcoming PvP content, dungeons

Nexon is adding new player versus player (PvP) game modes and upgrades to Dragon Nest as part of a new content update, "Theater of War," releasing next Monday. The update for its popular online action RPG will also include two challenging new dungeons for high level players and a host of other game improvements.

New fighting styles make their debut next week, and the game's classic PvP modes will get a makeover as well. In the new Protect-the-Captain game mode, players must work together as a team to safeguard their team captain while pressing the offensive to eliminate the opposing team's leader. Teamwork, coordination, feints and ruses are the tools necessary for the cunning team to win the day.

Also new to PvP is the free-for-all mode, where up to 16 players are cut loose to battle each other in a bloodthirsty brawl for supremacy. Players can fight, or they can fly, but they can't hide forever in this fast-paced game mode. Additionally, a new three-on-three Ladder Mode has been added, wherein teams of three players face off against each other. The popular Ghoul Mode, introduced with last month's Halloween update, is receiving a number of improvements. Players can now turn into mummy ghouls and access new ghoul skills, items and achievements. Finally, medals and EXP will be awarded should players wish to consume their power bar to do so.

Dungeon delvers also have a lot to look forward to with the "Theater of War" update. Located in the Garden of Eternity, Chaos Rift Kamala is a new dungeon for  level 24 players and above. Playable only on Abyss Mode, the game's highest difficulty level, players are encouraged to take a friend (or few) along. Chaos Rift Viera is another new dungeon playable on Abyss Mode for players at the current level cap of 32. Unlike other dungeons, the layout in these two new dungeons changes every time a player enters presenting a fresh experience each time.

In addition to this content update, players will also have a slew of Black Friday deals to look forward to during the Thanksgiving weekend.

Developed by Eyedentity Games, Dragon Nest is published by Nexon America in the United States, Canada, and Oceania. For the latest news and information on Dragon Nest and to download and play for free, visit http://dragonnest.nexon.net.

Digimon Masters lines up player-suggested improvements

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 12:26 PM PST

A series of updates, based on player feedback, has been lined up for Joymax’s Digimon Masters Online.

The first in the series of updates was launched on November 1, and removed the experience penalty for extended game play while increasing the drop-hatch rates. Further updates, set to continue into December, will expand the cash shop and add new payment methods, add a new game server (Lucemon), introduce two Digivolutions for Beelzemon and MetalGarurumon, add eight new Digimon (including Agumon and Tentomon), and debut three new maps.

Joymax also publishes Silkroad Online and Karma Online.

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Digimon Masters Online Gameplay Screenshot

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DIGIMON MASTERS UNLEASHES BEVY OF IMPROVEMENTS

First In Several Patches Based Directly On Player Feedback

Seoul, Korea, November 15, 2011— Joymax, leading online game developer and publisher, announced today the start of a series of new content and changes inspired by and based on player feedback for its online massive multiplayer title, Digimon Masters.  A fantastic universe where our world and the Digital World are closer than anyone would have imagined is about to change in ways never expected!  Joymax has now launched the first of several patches which will include functional game changes as well as new Mercenary Digimon.  Players who want to join in on the fun can register at the Joymax portal site at http://www.joymax.com/portal

“We set in place a number of measures in order to limit the negative impact of real-money trade and botting on Digimon Masters, but quickly came to the realization while these were effective in deterring RMT, they were also overly punitive to our players.” said Joymax CEO, Nam-chul Kim.  “The player’s voices have been heard on this issue and others, and we’re committed to addressing their concerns in a timely manner.”

The first part of the update, which launched on November 1st, addressed player requests that were related to experience point (XP) deductions and low drop-hatch rates: the XP penalty for extended game play has been removed, and the drop-hatch rates have been increased. These improvementswere widely lauded as a positive step forward for the publisher. In addition, several new Digi-Eggs were added to the cash shop: Keramon, Hawkmon, and Petimeramon.

Future content updates, that are due out in November and December, will include an expanded cash shop with more payment methods, a new game server named Lucemon, two special Digivolutions for Beelzemon and MetalGarurumon, eight new Digimon including Agumon and Tentomon, and last but not least, three new maps!  With more unannounced changes to come throughout 2012, this is the perfect time to jump straight into Digimon Masters.

Digimon are well known all over the globe as part of the famous Japanese TV animation series.  Digimon Masters is the first ever 3D online game based on the Digimon universe with more than 1,000 characters featured from seasons 1 through 5 of the series. Not only is it faithful to the art design, Digimon Masters closely follows the original story that will satisfy both loyal fans of the series as well as the average gamer. The game seamlessly combines pet training simulation with role-playing elements to deliver a one of a kind gaming experience. Featuring real-time combat, Gamers will be thrilled with the challenges brought forth by real-time combat which requires quick thinking and good reflexes. Players can also become one of 8 Royal Knights. Royal Knights are Digimon who are in charge of each area in the Digital World. Leaders of a guild that conquers one of these areas can become a Royal Knight who has the right to impose taxes along with other perks and obligations.

MMO Updates

MMO Updates


Bounty Hounds Online closed beta featuring new content

Posted: 15 Nov 2011 09:00 AM PST

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Bounty Hounds Online - mercenary duel
Bounty Hounds Online is talking up its AAA characteristics in the latest press release from Wicked Interactive. According to the blurb, the sci-fi MMORPG "brings triple-A quality to the free-to-play genre" and allows players to choose from five different mercenary class types while directing their avatars through "multiple worlds and environments."

Beginning today, Wicked is rolling out a substantial update to the title's closed beta client. The new content includes five high-level Cambria group instances. There are also new missions and events on tap including objectives in the Wastelands that give both stat and skill point reset items. Finally, earned character titles now unlock unique stat-boost accessories, and XP requirements have been adjusted "so you'll spend less time grinding."

Sound interesting? Head to the official Bounty Hounds website to learn more.

[Source: Wicked Interactive press release]

MassivelyBounty Hounds Online closed beta featuring new content originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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    The Secret World sketches out the Templars

    Posted: 15 Nov 2011 08:00 AM PST

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    The Secret World
    The Secret World's Week of the Templars continues, as today Funcom released a batch of artwork featuring the faction's look and locales.

    The Templars' red-and-white outfits may not be everyone's cup of Earl Grey tea, but for us and ours, it looks quite snazzy, especially on the PvP uniforms. This is a faction that says that the end of the world is no reason not to dress up in style.

    The rest of the concept art focuses on Templar-related areas, such as a "Camelot" castle in a park, a fighting pit, and a lounge where off-duty Templars can knock back a drink or unload a few dozen rounds at the adjacent firing range.

    You can get a feel for the Templar faction in our gallery below!

    MassivelyThe Secret World sketches out the Templars originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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      Massively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2 dev diary talks in-game events

      Posted: 15 Nov 2011 07:00 AM PST

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      Windslayer 2 - GM event
      Hello 2-D sidescrolling fans, and welcome to another exclusive Windslayer 2 developer diary. We've partnered with Ignited Games to bring you a series of first looks at the title as it moves through beta and toward its official release. So far we've covered a basic introduction, ranged class mechanics, and PvP.

      Today we're shifting gears a bit to focus on in-game events. Ignited is currently focusing on both scripted events and GM-driven events, and both are designed to add a bit of flavor and give players an interesting diversion from everyday gameplay. See what's in store after the break.

      Continue reading Massively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2 dev diary talks in-game events

      MassivelyMassively Exclusive: WindSlayer 2 dev diary talks in-game events originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        Hangame MMO accidentally deleted, shut down forever

        Posted: 15 Nov 2011 06:00 AM PST

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        M2
        There's a good chance you've never heard of M2, a small free-to-play MMO developed by Japanese company Sankando and operated by Hangame, and if it wasn't for a major misstep last month, your ignorance might've gone on indefinitely. Due to a recent accident, the MMO was deleted and won't be coming back. Ever.

        The story goes like this: On October 21st, M2 suffered a critical server issue and the game was taken offline to check it out. Unfortunately, the problem was widespread and the company could not restore the game's data from whatever backups it did or did not have. With no other option but to declare the title dead on arrival, Hangame posted an announcement that it somehow deleted an entire MMO and could not -- or would not -- restart it from scratch.

        Hangame has since apologized and is offering conditional refunds to affected players, who were undoubtedly miffed when the money they spent on M2's microtransactions went poof during one October night.

        MassivelyHangame MMO accidentally deleted, shut down forever originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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        The Daily Grind: Do you play your favorite MMO with your kids?

        Posted: 15 Nov 2011 05:00 AM PST

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        Guild Wars
        Today's Daily Grind is for the parents -- or those who plan to be parents one of these days. It's only natural for little ones to take an interest in what mom and dad spend their leisure time with, whether it be a sport, some sort of craft, or gaming.

        MMO gaming in particular lends itself to being a family activity, where Mom, Dad, and the kiddos can team up and take on the Big Bad in their chosen game (provided there are enough computers around the house). Granted, not every MMO is suitable for the younger crowd, but plenty are.

        As a parent, do you round up your child for some gaming time? If so, do they join you in your game of choice, or do the two of you spend quality time in a game that you set aside to play together, like Free Realms and Wizard101? Those of you who are looking at parenthood down the road, do you plan to introduce your kids to gaming as soon as possible? Click that handy little comment button and let us know what you think!

        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!

        MassivelyThe Daily Grind: Do you play your favorite MMO with your kids? originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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          Earthrise killing subscriptions, going free-to-play in 2012

          Posted: 15 Nov 2011 04:30 AM PST

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          Earthrise
          The struggling sci-fi sandbox Earthrise is no longer interested in competing in the subscription market, and is instead veering toward a free-to-play model in 2012. As of December 1st, all players will be able to experience the game without a monthly charge as Masthead Studios prepares for a F2P version.

          Masthead CEO Atanas Atanasov says that the move is an effort to retain customer trust while the developers shore up the game's weaknesses: "We decided to let all our players unlimited gaming experience until we all are satisfied with the experience in our game. At the moment Earthrise features one of the best visuals, content, and gameplay of all sci-fi MMOs on the market. However, it is missing polish and has annoyances that spoil the fun in the game. We are learning from our experience and that is why we will remove monthly charges until we bring the game to a quality state that is satisfactory to us and our players."

          Once the title is brought up to par, Masthead will transition it to a true F2P model, although Atanasov assures players that it will not incorporate pay-to-win purchases. Until Earthrise goes F2P, new accounts will be invitation-only as Masthead restricts the number of incoming players. All current subscribers will be able to invite a few of their friends during the transition, however.

          [Source: Masthead Studios press release]

          MassivelyEarthrise killing subscriptions, going free-to-play in 2012 originally appeared on Massively on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            Pocket Legends launches the Mount Fang expansion

            Posted: 14 Nov 2011 06:00 PM PST

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            Who knows, you might even see this guy.
            It's time for another update for one of the first MMOs on the go, Pocket Legends. Mount Fang, the latest expansion, brings with it an increase in the level cap to 66 as well as a reduction in the experience curve across the board. If you're at the level cap, you can shoot for the next tier, but the reduction in the curve ensures that players at any level can benefit from the update.

            There's more to the update than just leveling, however; players will be given access to a new free campaign, Mount Fang, that starts at level 59 and provides new monsters, quests, and rewards. And of course, there are new vanity items in the cash shop as well as a special set of cosmetic armor for players who hit 66 before the next cap adjustment. If you've been enjoying the game on your mobile device of choice, download the expansion and get into the mix.

            MassivelyPocket Legends launches the Mount Fang expansion originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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            Not So Massively: It's major game update week

            Posted: 14 Nov 2011 05:00 PM PST

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            Not So Massively title image
            This week, League of Legends revealed major upcoming changes to its mastery trees for competitive season two, which are due to go live with the Fizz patch ahead of upcoming tournaments. Heroes of Newerth continues its support of the game's competitive scene with the HoNWars League, which is open to players of all skill levels and will deliver hundreds of small cash prizes in countless categories. For fans of throbbing bass, a new Firefall trailer delivers a delightful blend of the game's Unreal Tournament style FPS gameplay and dubstep wub-wub.

            Blizzard Entertainment recently revealed that all class abilities in Diablo III will deal damage based on weapon damage, with cast speed also coupled to weapon speed. The inspired move will make balancing weapons across all classes much easier. We also found out that the collector's edition will come with free in-game vanity perks like wings and armour dyes. Diablo-esque online action RPG Path of Exile releases its huge 0.9.3 beta patch today, providing new game areas and major gameplay system revamps. Finally, it's a massive news week for Rise of Immortals as it releases new European servers, a new immortal spotlight, and a developer video podcast about upcoming development.

            Read on for this week's top news stories from popular MOBAs and other online games that aren't quite MMOs.

            Continue reading Not So Massively: It's major game update week

            MassivelyNot So Massively: It's major game update week originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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              Lineage II Goddess of Destruction and Truly Free transition coming November 30th

              Posted: 14 Nov 2011 04:00 PM PST

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              Screenshot -- Lineage II
              Last month, NCsoft announced that Lineage II would be making the transition to free-to-play (or, as the company likes to call it, Truly Free), but the studio has remained tight-lipped on when the transition will take place. Until now, that is. On November 30th, Lineage II's newest and largest content update, Goddess of Destruction, will be hitting the live servers. As soon as the update is live, players will be able to play for free, with "no zone, level, or player interaction restrictions."

              The update also introduces a new feature known as Path to Awakening. Path to Awakening is "an exclusive leveling guide designed specifically for Lineage II," and it will provide leveling players with "buffs, time limited gear enabling accelerated progression through the game," and interactive maps to point players to the optimal leveling locations. For the full details, head on over to the new Truly Free Lineage II site.

              [Source: NCsoft press release]

              MassivelyLineage II Goddess of Destruction and Truly Free transition coming November 30th originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                Neverwinter was 'almost ready to ship' before F2P MMO retooling

                Posted: 14 Nov 2011 03:00 PM PST

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                Neverwinter
                Last month, we reported that Cryptic Studios and Perfect World Entertainment were changing gears to render the upcoming D&D Neverwinter game more of an MMO than originally planned, complete with action combat and a cash shop to dispense vanity items and perks. Today, MMORPG.com published an interview with Neverwinter Lead Producer Andy Velasquez, in which he notes that the original title was "almost ready to ship," but the revision is nevertheless for the best:
                The change from CORPG to a full action RPG F2P MMO is a change that just made sense for us. Perfect World wanted to go big. Expand everything. Do more. Do better. Take your time. Really blow it out. Pushing into 2012 allows us to make these changes. Transitioning into a full-featured action RPG, free-to-play MMO allows us to reach a whole new audience of people. Never underestimate barriers to entry. With a free client, anyone can play. Try it. Where's the harm? It's better for the game, better for us, better for D&D and infinitely better for fans and gamers. With Neverwinter, we're going to prove that F2P does not describe a type of gameplay -- it only describes the fundamentals of a business model.
                Velasquez also discusses user-generated content and the challenges of working with a famous IP. "A ton of effort is also being made to make sure that we produce an authentic D&D experience," he says. Head over to MMORPG.com for the full interview.

                MassivelyNeverwinter was 'almost ready to ship' before F2P MMO retooling originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                Unveiled: The Supernatural trailer shows off gameplay, customization [Updated]

                Posted: 14 Nov 2011 02:00 PM PST

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                Unveiled The Supernatural - Vampire girl
                Unveiled: The Supernatural recently made its way onto our radar screen, and a new trailer from last week's G-Star convention offers the first real look under the game's hood. While we've seen plenty of screenshots, renders, and a cinematic, the new clip indulges in a few fly-through shots as well as some glimpses of avatar and outfit customization.

                Toward the end of the video we also get to see both solo- and group-based PvE, as well as the requisite neck biting and heart-stabbing that are part and parcel of every vampire title. Check out the full clip after the cut.

                [Update: Maverick Studios reached out to us to let us know that this isn't an official trailer: "It is not a publicly released gameplay trailer from G-star; it is a prototype video made more than a year ago by eight developers who were constructing their vision of Unveiled: The Supernatural."]

                Continue reading Unveiled: The Supernatural trailer shows off gameplay, customization [Updated]

                MassivelyUnveiled: The Supernatural trailer shows off gameplay, customization [Updated] originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                Wings Over Atreia: TORn away

                Posted: 14 Nov 2011 01:00 PM PST

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                Wings Over Atreia header
                *suits up in full firefighters gear* Alrighty, now I am ready!

                The topic for this week's Wings Over Atreia presented itself when I logged into Aion at prime-time on Thursday night and found the very odd occurrence of both an empty legion list and an empty friends list. Considering how full the latter is (plug for larger lists here), I've never seen both be completely empty simultaneously, even when I pop in during my odd super-late hours. While I saw some life over the rest of the weekend, overall numbers stayed pretty low, even during the hours of the new arena instances. To what do I attribute this? In some cases it was the usual attack of the Real Life (tm) that got ahold of people, but two extra factors contributed to the population insta-decline: the release of Skyrim and more weekend beta invites from Star Wars: The Old Republic.

                Now in the case of Skyrim, it can't be helped (but maybe we can have a little spacing between the release of so many games?!). We know that once the game is played through, people will wander back to their MMOs. TOR, however, is another matter: Besides the shininess of of a new game and the fact that it is both Star Wars-based and made by BioWare, does Aion have a future of vast, empty lands to look forward to at the release of the latest OMG-it's-the-second-coming-of-games title? Some are certainly screaming doom-and-gloom, but we hear that from dissenters about nearly every little thing. Is it possible that there is room enough for both games to survive after the initial hype has passed?

                *checks and readjusts all gear again* Come on and join me past the cut for some thoughts on the matter.

                Continue reading Wings Over Atreia: TORn away

                MassivelyWings Over Atreia: TORn away originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                  Flameseeker Chronicles: The news doors haven't shut... yet

                  Posted: 14 Nov 2011 12:00 PM PST

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                  More news! More updates! Be still my heart! No, seriously. It does my fangirl heart such good to see all of these cool updates and details about Guild Wars 2 over the past few weeks. Between the animation updates, the skill updates, and the earnings call, there's plenty to discuss.

                  I was so excited to see the updated cutscenes, although I couldn't stop giggling at the male character shifting from foot to foot -- I kept waiting for him to ask the Priestess of Dwayna where the bathroom was. That's not a reflection on ArenaNet's design team so much as a testament to my years as the mother of a boy. It's all about the bathroom humor around here.

                  The new skill acquisition system was great in my book, and the news from the earnings call... well, why don't you follow along after the cut and we'll delve into all of that more deeply.

                  Continue reading Flameseeker Chronicles: The news doors haven't shut... yet

                  MassivelyFlameseeker Chronicles: The news doors haven't shut... yet originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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                    Leaderboard: SWTOR vs. GW2 cinematic cutscenes

                    Posted: 14 Nov 2011 11:00 AM PST

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                    Leaderboard
                    OK, you knew that sooner or later there'd be a face-off between Star Wars: The Old Republic and Guild Wars 2 in this column, although today's poll might not be what you were expecting. Instead of getting into "Which game that hasn't released is better than the other game that hasn't released?" let us examine each title's approach to cinematic cutscenes.

                    Both titles plan to pull players out of the game world proper and put them into a personal dialogue session, but that's where the similarities end. SWTOR uses BioWare's patented movie-style approach, where the camera angles change dramatically and often during the conversation. Guild Wars 2, however, looks to have more of a stylized throwback to older RPGs where the characters are sliced out of the world and placed on a conversation window for a private one-on-one. It's almost as if SWTOR is 3-D while GW2 is 2-D, but not quite.

                    So which is more effective as a storytelling device? Which do you think will tug at your heartstrings and beckon you to lean in and pay attention? Only your vote can tell us how you truly feel, so hit that jump like you mean it!

                    Continue reading Leaderboard: SWTOR vs. GW2 cinematic cutscenes

                    MassivelyLeaderboard: SWTOR vs. GW2 cinematic cutscenes originally appeared on Massively on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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