MMO News

MMO News


Star Trek Online celebrates second anniversary

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 03:05 PM PST

Today marks the second anniversary of Star Trek Online, and to celebrate, Cryptic will hold an anniversary event until February 6.

There are two activities players can participate in. A one-time flagship mission will grant a starship to players. There is also a daily Q mission (resets every 20 hours), which has you chase down some pests for Q at either Earth Spacedock or Qo’noS. The daily mission rewards either a Two Year Anniversary Part Popper, 500 Dilithium Ore, or a mystery box that may contain random green, blue, or purple quality items; high end consumables; a one hour skill point boost; or the One Year Anniversary Party Popper.

Cryptic Studios also publishes Champions Online.

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Star Trek Online Gameplay Screenshot

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Anniversary Event FAQ

Q: So what are we celebrating?

A: Star Trek Online first launched on February 2, 2010. This week marks the second anniversary of the game being live. We're also celebrating the recent shift of STO to a free-to-play game.

Q: How long does the event run?

A: From around 10:00am PST on Thursday, February 2, 2012 through around 10:00am PST on Monday, February 6, 2012.

Q: What are the parts of the celebration?

A: In addition to the fun activities planned by the community, there are two special activities that you can participate in. First is a daily Q mission and second is a one-time flagship mission.

Q: What is the daily Q mission?

A: Each day, you can talk to Q at Earth Spacedock or on Qo'noS. When you do, he will offer you a mission that has you go to Starfleet Academy or the KDF Academy. This mission involves chasing down some pests that got loose, then returning to Q. Remember that you can run faster by pressing the Shift key to sprint.

Q: What are the rewards of this mission?

A: When you complete the mission, Q will give you a choice of reward. There are three choices.

1) A "Two Year Anniversary Party Popper" item that does silly things when you use it.

2) A mystery box.

3) A box with 500 Dilithium Ore in it.

If you choose the mystery box, opening it randomly awards one of four things.

1) A box that contains random Green, Blue, or Purple quality item.

2) A box that contains some high end consumables.

3) A 1 hour Skill Point boost.

4) The "One Year Anniversary Party Popper" item that does silly things when you use it.

If you complete the mission multiple times and choose the mystery box multiple times, you may get the same reward more than once. The reward is random and there is no guarantee that you will get different rewards each time.

Q: How often can I do the Q mission?

A: Each time you do the mission, you cannot do it again for 20 hours. This makes it doable roughly once each day, which is why we call it a daily mission. If you go back to try and get the mission, it will show a countdown timer there of how long you need to wait before the mission is available again.

Q: How does the flagship mission work for Federation characters?

A: One time during the event, a Federation character of level 5 or higher can talk to Engineer Kani on Earth Spacedock to start the mission. The mission will ask you to take a brand new Odyssey class starship out on a shakedown cruise. At the completion of the mission, the character will receive a non-tradable inventory item that contains a starship. This item cannot be opened to actually get the starship until the character achieves the rank of Vice Admiral at level 50.

Q: How does the flagship mission work for Klingon characters?

A: One time during the event, a KDF character of level 21 or higher can talk to Engineer Tum'Era on Qo'noS. The mission will ask you to take a brand new Bortas class starship out on a shakedown cruise. At the completion of the mission, the character will receive a non-tradable inventory item that contains a starship. This item cannot be opened to actually get the starship until the character achieves the rank of Lt. General at level 50.

Q: Is there any other way to get an Odyssey class or Bortas class starship?

A: Not at this time. The ship is free to everyone who completes the mission during this event. After the event, there will be no way to obtain these ships for some time. We have not decided on when they will return to the game. You can expect that variations of these ships will show up in the C-Store next month.

Q: Is there a fast way to get to the event location?

A: There is a transwarp button in the mission journal that can speed your travel to Earth Spacedock or Qo'noS if you need it.

Nexon launches Hat Trick promotion

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 02:44 PM PST

Nexon America is offering players a chance to win prizes in its newest multi-game contest, the Nexon Hat Trick. The event runs until March 15.

Interested players must first join the event on its official page, and then obtain (or already have) level twenty characters in three Nexon games: Dragon Nest, Dungeon Fighter Online, and Vindictus. Players who enter and complete the Hat Trick by March 15 will earn about 20,000 NX worth of in-game goodies. Qualifying players will also be entered for a chance to win Karma Koin cards, an Alienware Aurora Desktop PC, and a “high-performance automobile.”

Alienware Aurora Desktop

Alienware Aurora Desktop PC

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Nexon Invites Players to Score a Hat Trick in Its Action Games for Prizes

Players who complete the Nexon Hat Trick* by March 15th may be eligible to win a new car

Nexon America is challenging players to score a Nexon Hat Trick*, and players who do so can win prizes like Karma Koin cards, Alienware Aurora desktop PCs and perhaps even a new 2012 high-performance car. Nexon is awarding players with in-game rewards as well: every player who scores a Nexon Hat Trick by March 15 will receive approximately NX 20,000 worth of in-game goods for their characters in "Dragon Nest," "Dungeon Fighter Online," and "Vindictus."

On March 15, three players who have scored the Nexon Hat Trick will be randomly selected to win an Alienware Aurora Desktop PC, and 30 players who have scored the Nexon Hat Trick will be chosen to receive a $50 Karma Koin card. In the event that 30,000 players achieve the Nexon Hat Trick by March 15, Nexon will then unlock the Grand Prize and select one lucky player who has scored the Nexon Hat Trick to win a new 2012 high-performance automobile.

To enter the event, players must enter through the “Join Event” button at www.nexon.net/events/hattrick. Players who already have level 20 characters in all three games just need to join the event to qualify for the prizes and receive the in-game rewards. For more information about the Nexon Hat Trick event, including official rules and regulations and for eligibility information, visit www.nexon.net/events/hattrick.

Mythos Global begins open beta

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 02:16 PM PST

Open beta testing has begun for Mythos Global, published by T3Fun.

The release now allows European players, whose previous version of Mythos (published by Frogster) was shut down. Only players from the Russian Federation, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Estonia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Republic of Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan remain IP blocked from the global version.

Mythos features a Diablo-style gameplay, with four races (Cyclopes, Gremlins, Satyrs, and humans) and three classes (Bloodletter, Pyromancer, and Gadgeteer) to choose from.

T3Fun also publishes Hellgate.

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Mythos Gameplay Screenshot

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The open beta test for Mythos Global, Hanbitsoft and T3Fun's upcoming fantasy dungeon crawler, opens its doors to the public today. With this international OBT, Mythos Global will be available to thousands of new players. The nebula where planet Uld resides will offer players countless quests and adventures fit for any dungeon master.

Mythos' fantasy universe is home to four different playable character races: the Cyclopes with their ox-like strength, the ever-diplomatic humans, the wily, energetic Gremlins and the mystical, sage-like Satyrs. There will also be three classes unique to Mythos: let the blood be your guide as a Bloodletter, may the flames contain your rage as a Pyromancer or arm traps, bombs and mysterious machinery as a Gadgeteer!

Leading up to the launch of the OBT, T3Fun has launched several trailers to help players get to know each of the races and character class options. Watch the videos now to start getting acquainted: http://www.youtube.com/user/t3funmythos

Register now at T3fun.com and help the world of Uld rise up from the savagery, magic and atrocities of the Dark Age.

The Myth0s Global open beta is available now on the official website and is also downloadable via torrent.

Cross Fire introduces Hero Mode X

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 02:01 PM PST

A new mode has arrived in Cross Fire, and it goes by “Hero Mode X.”

The mode lets players control one of two new characters: Xeno, an electric alien, or Commando, who dual-wields kukris. This mode boasts three new ribbons for players to earn, and includes two maps – Mansion and Rooftops. The update also introduces six new weapons (Remington 870 shotgun, Rx4 Storm assault rifle, tiger-striped AWM sniper rifle, camo-skinned QBZ95, and alternate gold-skin MG3 machine gun), plus an assortment of other new equipment.  Through February 5, players can also earn weapons and items just by playing.

Cross Fire is published by Z8 Games.

Cross Fire Hero Mode X Screenshots:

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CROSS FIRE GETS NEW “HERO MODE X”

New Mode Pits Aliens against Commandos with Players Deciding the Outcome

Toronto, CANADA – February 2nd, 2012 -G4BOX Inc., a North American publisher and distributor of interactive online entertainment media, released today an update for its free-to-play military shooter, Cross Fire. The free update features the new Hero Mode X, which puts players in control of one of two new playable characters: the electricity-equipped alien “Xeno”, or the dual kukri-wielding Commando. The update also packs 6 new weapons and 3 new ribbons to earn for your player profile, in addition to a variety of new equipment items. To mark the release of this exciting new mode, Z8Games will be hosting events through February 5th in which players can earn new weapons and items, just for playing. For current players, the update will download automatically upon launching Cross Fire. New players can download and play the game for free from: http://crossfire.z8games.com.

The electricity-infused alien, Xeno, has landed. Under its leadership, Mutants everywhere are now united towards the goal of conquering Earth! To combat the alien threat, an elite squad of super Commandos armed with dual Kukri’s and a no fear attitude has risen up. Play as either Xeno or Commando in the new Hero Mode X and earn three new ribbons to show off on your profile as a symbol of your participation in Earth’s final battle! Hero Mode X debuts with two maps: the multi-level “Mansion”, and the gritty, suburban “Rooftops”.

The Hero Mode X update also includes six new weapons: a Remington 870 shotgun, an RX4 Storm assault rifle, a tiger-striped AWM sniper rifle, a camo-skinned QBZ95, and an MG3 machine gun with an alternate gold-skin variant. These weapons are available via the in-game Store and Black Market.

For a full rundown of the new Hero Mode X, including patch events and ribbons, visit the official update page here: http://crossfire.z8games.com/hero_mode_x_update.aspx.

Tribes Ascend previews major update

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 01:27 PM PST

Hi-Rez Studios has revealed plans for the next major update for Tribes Ascend.

The update will reduce the number of playable classes from twelve to nine, while increasing the number of available classes for starting characters to three (one Light, one Medium, one Heavy). Class customization and weapon customization will be improved to allow players to better tweak their loadouts, and the user interface will also be more polished. The goal of the update is to improve customization and retain game balance.

Hi-Rez Studios also publishes Global Agenda.

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Tribes Ascend: New Class Selection

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Tribes Ascend: New Weapon Upgrades

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Tribes Ascend: New Modify Class

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Upcoming Tribes: Ascend Update includes Class Customization, More Free Classes and New UI
Hi-Rez adds players’ most-requested changes to multiplayer shooter Beta

ATLANTA — February 2, 2012 — Today, Hi-Rez Studios (www.hirezstudios.com) released screenshots previewing enhancements coming to the fast-action multiplayer shooter Tribes: Ascend. The game, currently in Beta, has been receiving regular updates since early November. This next planned patch delivers the most significant changes to date.

"We feel very good about the fast and fluid combat we've been playing and refining with the community over the past few months," explains Todd Harris, Hi-Rez Studios Chief Operating Officer. "We are now excited to announce new features that have been among those most requested by our Beta group.”

The next update will include additional class customization and a much more polished user interface that really showcases the sci-fi, high resolution graphics of Tribes: Ascend. Hi-Rez will be collapsing the total number of playable classes from 12 to 9, but adding the ability for players to unlock new weapons for each class and further customize their loadout. Three of the nine classes will be available right away so a new player will have access to a Light, Medium, and Heavy class in his or her first match.

"We believe this system preserves class-based combat while also offering additional flexibility for players to customize classes around individual play style. It continues to provide a balanced and level playing field for all players."

Tribes: Ascend is a free-to-play shooter for PC with servers currently located across North America, Europe, and Australia. In addition to unlockable classes, weapons, skills and perks, the Beta version includes 3 drivable vehicles, 3 game modes, and 9 playable maps. Hi-Rez Studios is also planning to support Ranked Servers and Custom Servers.

Players interested in joining the Tribes: Ascend Closed Beta can register for an invitation at http://www.tribesascend.com.

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Maestia relaunches on Alaplaya

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 11:45 AM PST

Alaplaya has officially relaunched Maestia, a fantasy MMORPG originally published by BigPoint.

The relaunch included a launch of a new update, “Rise of Keledus.” The update revises all maps, dungeons, monsters, item drops, and some character models. New features include set effects for rare and expert dungeon equipment, new HDR graphics options, major skill readjustments for mages and rangers, improvements to group experience and options, increased hitpoints, new crafting and Maestones, and much more.

Alaplaya also publishes ARGO Online and Florensia.

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Maestia Gameplay Screenshot

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But that’s not it yet! For its launch on alaplaya.net Maestia is getting a massive update: With “Rise of Keledus” a completely new chapter will be opened up. All players who confide in the power of the Maestones will be delighted about the 3 times higher drop-rate. Moreover the functions of the Maestones are going to be categorized by player-level to ensure a higher possibility of individualizing your class skills. Besides you can indulge in your gathering-passion with hundreds of new items. Enjoy the numerable enhancements of the party-play as well as the upcoming raid-content for level 100 players and guilds.

But Maestia isn’t just getting a content-wise refurbishment. Also technically the game is going to reach the next level! The graphics of all weapons, armors, characters, monsters and maps have been edited. And besides the general performance improvement you can enjoy new graphic-effects such as High Dynamic Range as option for high-contrast imaging.

Please post your comments here. More information about the launch of Maestia will follow soon.

Your Maestia Team

Evony: Interview with Darold Higa, Lead Producer

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 11:13 AM PST

Evony has seen a large amount of success in the years since its launch, and has also faced a hefty amount of criticism. MMOHut spoke with Evony’s Lead Producer, Darold Higa, to get further insight into the history and future of this well known strategy MMO.


It’s been a few years since Evony’s release – what are some of the major changes and updates that have taken place since gamers first set eyes on Evony?

Since we launched Evony: Age I a few years ago, we have launched Evony: Age II which introduced a number of new elements of strategy to the game. Age II also launched to enhancements and additions to the gameplay, including Historic Heroes, Historical Cities, Achievements, Stratagems, new Quests and enhanced graphics.

We support both Evony: Age I and Evony: Age II through game tweaks and new items. We also released a toolbar so that you can keep playing the game and keep a watchful eye on your cities even when you are not actually on Evony.com.

What do you think Evony has succeeded the best at since its release?

I think Evony has had two big successes.  First, our gameplay has been an important reason why so many people play Evony, and why we have players that have been playing this game since launch.  Having a game that has the depth and complexity to engage players for years is one of the defining characteristics of the Evony game experience.  The second and perhaps the most important aspect has been our passionate, tight-knit player community of Ladies and Lords.  Evony is a game where the players create the story through acts of heroism and deception, friendship and treachery.  Our player community is literally the driving force behind the game, and the community that has built up around the game makes the game experience what it is.

Why did Evony decide to make Age II, and what makes it so different?

Age II was an opportunity to expand our existing game experience, adding a number of new features and new ideas to the already complex gameplay of Age I.  By putting the complex combat system of Age I into the hands of so many players we learned a number of things.  Information warfare, which was already quite complicated, could be made even more exciting by adding a wildcard element to the game in the form of Stratagems.  Stratagems are very similar to special cards from a collectible card game, allowing players to add deception and intrigue to tip the tide of battle.  A new class of city, known as Historical Cities were added to give Alliances a focal point for their struggle to control regions.  We also added new Quests and Achievements, to give players tangible goals to aim for, helping to guide them beyond the early stages of gameplay and prepare them for "endgame" battles.

Historical Heroes are another big feature we've added to the game, featuring real world historical figures as new and powerful units to lead your forces.  Overall, the goal of Age II was to enhance the core Age I gameplay experience without changing the core mechanics.  The result is a similar game with a very different feel.



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How well has Evony adapted to Facebook? Will it continue to reach to new platforms like the iPhone?

Players continue to be more social than ever, and we've added special bonuses that players can give to their friends when they play via Facebook. Facebook has made it even easier for us to connect with players and get more feedback.

The great thing about the browser is that it brings us that much closer to truly ubiquitous gaming.  Our game client is very complex, and it pushes the limits for what is possible in a browser game client.  We're really excited in improvements in mobile technology, and we're hoping that our brand of browser based gaming will find its way into the hands of mobile users in the future.

Where do you think Evony still needs to improve?

Like any persistent online game, we're always looking to streamline the experience for players and minimize any downtime or technical issues. We've made great improvements here but are definitely looking to do more.

Is Evony prepared to make an Age III, updating again in the future to adapt to new playerbases?

We currently reach and cater to quite a variety of strategy fans with Age I and II. We've been able to make the game enjoyable for both the hardcore and casual player.

We have quite a few ideas churning for things we can add to the game, but we haven't announced any plans regarding an Age III.

Evony’s early advertising campaigns drew a lot of publicity, much of it negative. Do you think Evony has since “cleared the air”? Have you added new strategies to draw in new players?

The ad campaign you're talking about was run two years ago by our affiliate network.  The method used the same kind of advertising gimmicks that products outside of gaming use.  I really feel like that was a turning point in the game industry, because prior to that game advertising was directed at the core gaming community (licensed properties excepted).  That being said, for the past two years we have run advertising that is very gameplay focused.  Browser based gaming has really required a different kind of advertising from traditional retail gaming.  In retail gaming the goal was to get players to purchase the product, and the advertising stopped there.  That meant that advertising was brief, intense and very flashy.  For free to play browser based games, advertising is there to get your product noticed so that a player spends some of their precious time to try your game.  The real advertising comes from the quality of gameplay.  If a player tries our game and gives up on it, then we haven't succeeded.  I think the quality of our gameplay and the rich game experiences that players get has been our most powerful advertising strategy, and it is something we will never deviate from.



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What work is Evony doing to address concerns about botting?

We've unleashed what we like to call Operation Cerberus, our frontline attack on players that we've identified to be using third-party tools or cheats to play the game. We take botting very seriously at Evony, and while I can't divulge our secrets to discovering a player abusing the rules like this, we work very hard to identify and take action against these players.

Evony has been a leader in the browser-based strategy game arena, leading to many similar games or “clones” in the market. What do you think makes the Evony game model so popular?

I really take a lot of pride that so many studios have worked so hard to emulate the success we've had with Evony: Age I and Evony: Age II.  I honestly believe the most important aspect of our game model is that we didn't limit ourselves to making a browser game.  There are so many companies, some rather large ones in fact, that approached browser gaming by simplifying games for the masses through limiting player interaction and limiting player options.  We took the opposite approach.

The browser wasn't a limitation; it was just a platform to deliver the game vision we had.  We pushed the limits on what a multiplayer browser game is all about.  We made a massive, multiplayer, real-time game with full symmetrical gameplay, player communication and organization tools.  Massive real-time battles?  Cut-throat player versus player dynamics?  Alliance tools?  Sure!  Our success and the success of our clones just prove that you don't have to "dumb down" games for the masses.

What message would you like to pass on to players who haven't yet played Evony?

I've played a lot of online games, but to date, some of my most memorable gaming experiences have come from hand wringing online battles with dozens of cities and millions of troops all on the move in real-time.  The early phase of the game is engaging as you build your cities, research technology and build up your economy and military, but the game really shines once you have built up your forces and engage in large-scale conflict.

Most important is to join an alliance!  Friendships (and even a marriage, we've been told) grow from the close bonds you forge battling it out with alliances.  All I can say is give the game a try!



Make sure to also check out our exclusive developer tips from Evony!

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