General Gaming Article

General Gaming Article


Intel's Buying Nvidia, The Pirate Bay's Going Legit, and 8 Other Tech Stories We All Got Wrong

Posted: 07 May 2012 11:02 AM PDT

If there's one thing that those of us in the tech media love, it's to whip ourselves into a frenzy over a juicy rumor. It doesn't matter that the source of the rumor is someone's second cousin who knows a guy who works in an Apple Store in Tuscon, Arizona; all that matters is that nobody wants to miss out on the next big story.

The predictable downside is that a lot of the time those rumors turn out to be false. Presented here, for your consideration, are 10 tech rumors from the last few years that created a huge commotion--before they turned out to be BS.

Adios, DDR3: Micron Says Its DDR4 DRAM Modules Are Coming In 2013

Posted: 07 May 2012 10:57 AM PDT

What's the future of memory look like? NAND flash? Hybrid memory cubes? The memory makers over at Micron have their hands in both of those technologies, but they're also banking on a third form hitting the streets before too long, bearing a striking resemblance to the DDR3 we all know and love. This weekend, the company announced that "its first fully functional DDR4 DRAM module" is up and running and should make it to market in 2013.

DDR4 has higher clock speeds and data transfer rates than DDR3 while simultaneously using less voltage than its predecessor, although the final standard for the DDR4 format isn't expected to be formalized until later this year. Micron wants to have its foot in the DDR4 door the second it opens; the 4GB DRAM modules being developed currently are based off Micron's 30nm manufacturing technology and were designed in conjunction with Nanya, another memory company. Select Micron customers already have the DDR4 module in hand for testing and feedback.

Micron plans on rolling out DDR4 RDIMMs, LRDIMMs, 3DS, SODIMMs and UDIMMs -- is that enough acronyms for you? -- with initial buyers coming from the enterprise and server markets, then trickling down into consumer and mobile technology. Micron hopes to kick the 4GB DDR4 modules into full-on production in the fourth quarter of 2012.

AMD Readies Radeon 7970 GHz Edition

Posted: 07 May 2012 10:39 AM PDT

Funny thing about the Radeon 7970; despite being a flagship graphics card, the reference model doesn't come clocked at 1GHz out of the box, even though the lower-priced 7770 and 7870 (and, um, the GTX 680) do. Well, that's going to end soon: a new report says AMD is prepping a "GHz Edition" version of the Radeon 7970 to better compete with Nvidia's top-end beast.

The Radeon 7970 GHz Edition will come with a core clock of 1,000MHz rather than the 925MHz found in the 7970s on shelves now. Australia's Atomic Maximum Power Computing magazine -- no relation to the MPC you all know and love, by the way -- broke the news and says that it's been in contact with AMD sources, who told the publication that improved yields have led to "much lower" voltages being needed to hit the stock 925MHz. In fact, AMD told AMPC that most Radeon 7970 GPUs can easily hit 1,250MHz now.

Why are they stopping at 1GHz, then? Who knows? But the extra oomph under the hood can only bring better performance to 7970 cards that stick to reference designs rather than going for a factory overclock.

Thanks to HotHardware for pointing this out!

Malware Scammers Scare Europeans Into Paying Fake Copyright Infringement Fines

Posted: 07 May 2012 10:14 AM PDT

Some of the ways scammers part fools and their money sure are deviously ingenuitive. A new variation of scareware is making the rounds in Europe, but rather than sticking to the age-old "Your computer is infected, buy this antivirus program now!" trope, this malware claims that the government is locking down your PC until you pay a fine for downloading music illegally.

As told by Roman Hussy on the abuse.ch blog (and reported by PC World), the scareware locks the users out of their computers and pops up an official-looking splash page littered with logos from local police and royalty collection groups (the equivalent of the RIAA), such as the Performing Right Society and the Metropolitan Police in the U.K.-based screenshot above.

The malware claims that your computer will remain useless until you pay a £50 fine (that's $80 to U.S. folks) through the web page using a prepaid Paysafecard. Don't know where to pick up a Paysafecard? The malware even helpfully points out local sellers.

Of course, you're not off the hook even after making a payment -- Hussy says a component of the program can also steal banking credentials and participate in DDoS attacks.

Some malware author's been paying attention to recent headlines -- late last month, the makers of the movie "The Hurt Locker" sued yet another 2,514 anonymous BitTorrent users for illegally downloading the film.

Image credit: abuse.ch

HTC Droid Incredible 4G LTE Smartphone Officially Sets Sail for Verizon

Posted: 07 May 2012 07:33 AM PDT

It's official, the smartphone with a baker's dozen syllables -- otherwise known as the HTC Droid Incredible 4G LTE -- is headed for Big Red, Verizon Wireless revealed today at the International CTIA Wireless 2012 show in New Orleans, Louisiana. HTC's Droid Incredible 4G LTE will bring the number of 4G LTE-enabled devices on VZW's network to 23, but high-speed Internet access isn't the only thing this smartphone brings to the table.

It's also an Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) device topped with Sense 4.0, HTC's latest UI overlay. It also features Beats Audio, which seems to be getting around these days. As for the nitty gritty:

  • 4-inch super LCD qHD display
  • 1.2GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor
  • 8MP rear-facing camera with autofocus, LED flash, BSI, f/2.2, and 28mm lens
  • Front-facing camera for video chat
  • Support for up to 32GB microSD memory card
  • Mobile Hotspot capable to share 4G LTE connection with up to 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices
  • 1,700 mAh lithium ion battery (removable!)

One of the unique features of HTC's latest smartphone is the ability to snap photos and record video simultaneously using HTC Video Pic. The phone is also NFC capable.

VZW didn't say how much the device will cost, revealing only that it will be available in stores and online "in the coming weeks."

Image Credit: Verizon

Adobe Now Shipping Creative Suite 6; Cloud Service Later This Week

Posted: 07 May 2012 07:11 AM PDT

Adobe today announced that its Creative Suite 6 (CS6) software set announced in April is now available to purchase. Included in the CS6 product line are new releases of Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Adobe Premier Pro, After Effects, Flash Professional and more, as well as four new suite versions -- Creative Suite 6 Design & Web Premium, Creative Suite 6 Design Standard, Creative Suite 6 Production Premium, and Creative Suite 6 Master Collection.

"We announced Creative Cloud and CS6 two weeks ago and these releases have caught the imagination of creatives everywhere," said David Wadhwani, senior vice president, Digital Media Business, Adobe. "Today we're shipping CS6 and look forward to the beginning of an exciting new era as we introduce Creative Cloud later this week."

Adobe Creative Cloud will be available this Friday, May 11, and is a subscription-based hub for making, sharing, and delivering content centered around CS6, Adobe says. Subscribers will be able to download and install all CS6 applications and new HTML5 desktop productions, as well as store and share content across various platforms. Is it worth it? Here are some numbers to digest:

  • CS6 Master Collection: $2,599
  • CS6 Production Premium: $1,899
  • CS6 Design & Web Premium: $1,899
  • CS6 Design Standard: $1,299

Alternately, Creative Cloud memberships run $50/month for an annual subscription or $75 for month-to-month billing. CS3, CS4, CS5, and CS5.5 customers are eligible for a special introductory offer of $30 per month, Adobe says.

Image Credit: Adobe

LG's Veep Tips Google TV Launch for Mid-May

Posted: 07 May 2012 06:28 AM PDT

Are you ready for the second coming of Google's Internet-enabled TV platform? Well, ready or not, Google TV is once again on the horizon, and this time it will be LG making a big push to promote the platform, not Logitech, which had some harsh words for the service after being burned by weak sales and left holding millions of dollars in unsold inventory. That's all in the past as far as LG is concerned, and the future starts in mid-May.

"Production of Google TVs will start from May 17 from our factory in Mexico and U.S. consumers will be able to buy the product from the week of May 21," Ro Seogho, a senior LG executive, recently told a handful of reporters, according to Silicon Valley's Mercury News.

Google's first attempt to capture an audience in the living room proved abysmal to the point where the platform had been all but forgotten on the consumer side. Logitech called its participation a "gigantic" mistake, one that cost the company "well over $100 million in operating profits" for what was ultimately a "beta" product, and while Logitech wouldn't rule out the platform being successful one day, the company said it would be a "grandchild of Google TV."

Whether or not enough has changed since then remains to be seen, and is apparently a gamble LG is willing to take, in the U.S. at first, and then depending on sales performance, in Europe and Asia sometime down the line.

"LG has constantly strived to provide consumers with wider choices in home entertainment that bring the highest level of sophistication and convenience," said Havis Kwon, President and CEO of LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company, when introducing Google TV at CES earlier this year. "Through Google TV, LG has merged Google's established Android operating system with LG's proven 3D and Smart TV technologies, offering consumers a new and enthralling TV experience."

Along with Google TV, LG said it will continue to advance its own Smart TV platform based on NetCast, which will be thrust into 60 percent of LG's flat panel TVs scheduled to come out in 2012.

Image Credit: LG

Production May Have Started on Microsoft's Next Xbox Console

Posted: 07 May 2012 06:06 AM PDT

Ask Microsoft about its future console plans and the company will pretend that the world revolves around the Xbox 360, that it "found new ways to extend its lifecycle" through the Kinect and other enhancements, and that any talk of an Xbox 720 is merely rumors and speculation, which the company doesn't comment on. Unofficially, however, Microsoft's next console may have entered the production phase.

Call it the Xbox 720, Durango, or the 'new Xbox' (to borrow a page from Apple) if you wish, the point is that this electronic creature, which Microsoft refuses to acknowledge, is being assembled by Flextronics at one of its facilities in Texas, IGN reports. Flextronics is the same company that built the original Xbox and is currently building Xbox 360 hardware, and citing un-named sources, IGN claims Flextronics recently moved beyond the test-group phase and is now building Xbox 720 / Durango / new Xbox hardware.

That doesn't mean you'll be able to buy a next generation Xbox console this summer or even in time for the holiday shopping season. IGN believes these early production units will end up as development kits for game designers to get familiar with the new hardware, and they'll have at least a year, if not longer, to do so.

It's also highly unlikely Microsoft would unveil any new hardware anytime soon. Microsoft already squashed rumors that it would announce another console at E3, and if recent reports prove accurate, Microsoft will soon be promoting a subsidized $99 Xbox 360 4GB + Kinect bundle with a 2-year subscription agreement that includes Xbox Live Gold service and other perks, plus an extended warranty.

Flash Player Update Addresses Critical Flash Zero-Day Bug

Posted: 07 May 2012 05:27 AM PDT

Adobe issued a security update to address a "critical" zero-day vulnerability (CVE-2012-0779) in its Flash Player browser plugin this past Friday. The said vulnerability, according to a security advisory issued by Adobe, is already being exploited in the wild, with attackers tricking their unsuspecting victims into clicking on a malicious file inside email messages. However, the attack only targets Flash Player for Internet Explorer on Windows.

"These updates address an object confusion vulnerability (CVE-2012-0779) that could cause the application to crash and potentially allow an attacker to take control of the affected system," reads Adobe's security advisory. There are reports that the vulnerability is being exploited in the wild in active targeted attacks designed to trick the user into clicking on a malicious file delivered in an email message. The exploit targets Flash Player on Internet Explorer for Windows only.

Users of Adobe Flash Player 11.2.202.233 and earlier versions for Windows, Macintosh and Linux should update to Adobe Flash Player 11.2.202.235 (those running Flash Player 11.2.x with the automatic update option enabled will receive the update automatically). Users running Adobe Flash Player 11.1.115.7 and earlier versions on Android 4.x devices and Adobe Flash Player 11.1.111.8 and earlier versions for Android 3.x and earlier are also advised to update.

MMO News

MMO News


Moonlight Online

Posted: 07 May 2012 04:22 PM PDT

In Moonlight Online, players can choose to be a regular human, a powerful werewolf, or a mysterious vampire. Each of these races has three classes to choose from, and each has their on advantages from one another. In this world, you weapon is your greatest friend. Blessed with the Soul Cleric ability, your weapon grows with you, developing in power as you do. Fight for survival of your own kind, and discover the truth behind the world.

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Publisher: IGG
Playerbase: ??
Graphics: High
Type: MMORPG
EXP Rate: ??
PvP: ??
Filesize: ??

Pros: +Weapons level with you. +Detailed storyline and world. +Dynamic gameplay.

Cons: -Rock, paper, scissors racial balance. -Long development time. -Limited information available.

official site

Overview

Moonlight Online Overview

Moonlight Online is a fantasy RPG based on legends of werewolves and vampires. The game is unique in that your weapon levels up with you. You can also transfer the soul of the weapon you’re using into another one that you prefer, making the game flow much better. Each race has different advantages over the others, ensuring no one race will dominate any other.

Moonlight Online Screenshots

 

Full Review

Moonlight Online Full Review

Coming Soon…

Screenshots

Moonlight Online Screenshots

Coming Soon…

Videos

Moonlight Online Videos

Coming Soon . . .

Links

Moonlight Online Links

Official Game Page

System Requirements

Moonlight Online System Requirements

Coming Soon . . .

 

Path of Exile reveals the Shadow

Posted: 07 May 2012 03:57 PM PDT

Path of Exile has revealed its sixth character class, the Shadow.

In an exclusive with RockPaperShotgun, the Shadow is revealed as a silent stalker who uses traps, dark magic, and mutilation to silence their enemies forever, execution style. Players will be able to focus on speed, leech the lives of their enemies, freeze his enemies, become more deadly at low life, and more, depending on how they choose to specialize.

Path of Exile will also be hosting a public stress test this weekend from 5pm (Pacific) May 11 until midnight May 13.

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Path of Exile Gameplay Screenshot

Source:

The Path of Exile servers will be open for public access from 5pm Friday (May 11) to 11:59pm Sunday (May 13), Pacific Daylight Time for our second Public Stress Test Weekend. Our new character class, the Shadow will be available for everyone to play. We look forward to seeing you there!

Emobi Games announces 2112

Posted: 07 May 2012 03:46 PM PDT

Emobi Games, a Vietnamese game developer, has announced the development of a free-to-play MMO called 2012.

Set currently to release on December 21, 2012, 2112 is designed to combine base defense with real time strategy and branching customization. The game is set in a futuristic war between the humans and two alien races who battle over Herani, an energy source that allows humanity to explore the depths of space like never before. Players will be able to choose between the three races, research and develop new Herani technologies, place forward bases, build resource points, upgrade fortresses, and build an army out of a variety of units to secure their place in space.

Emobi Games also developed 7554.

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2112 Concept Art

Source:

EMOBI GAMES ANNOUNCES NEW MMO WITH RTS, BASE DEFENSE AND MOBA FEATURES

 

VIETNAM – May 7, 2012– Emobi Games announces the development a massively multiplayer online (MMO) PC game titled 2112. Tentatively set for a December 21, 2012 release date, 2112 is a MMO that combines the intriguing game-play of the base defense games with the visceral action of real time strategy (RTS) with deep branching customization that come together in an epic storyline.

 

2112 tells a futurist story of intergalactic war between the human race and two mysterious alien races. Humans have discovered Herani, a powerful energy source that they have been able to harness for the use of deep space travel. The energy source allows humans to develop ships that are able to withstand the rigors of intergalactic voyages and travel at high speeds previously unimaginable. But this new discovery and the ability for intergalactic travel comes with direr consequences and as the human race boldly goes where it has never gone before, it attracts the attention of alien species who wish to possess this new source of energy at any cost. War breaks out and the race to not only survive but possess the Herani power source.

 

"The gaming industry is rife with innovation therefore it's not easy to make a game that can truly be labeled as unique. We would love that label and we are feverously working toward making 2112 a completely different experience from all competitors. Our efforts include a deep branching Campaign and Quest system that will help create long lasting wars as well as providing endless choices and strategy options found in PvP modes," said Nguyen Tuan Huy, Director of Emobi Games.

 

In 2112, players can choose to play as any of the three races. Players must research new technologies made from Herani to provide their army with an upper hand on the battlefield. From strategically placing forward bases for upcoming assaults, build upon resource point locations to block an enemy's tactical advance, to upgrading fortresses to better repeal an invading force's attack. Players will have a full range of defensive structures and offensive units and weapons to choose from and upgrades.

 

2112 will run on free to play model, so every gamers can try it at no cost. For more information about 2112 please visit http://www.game2112.com.

ChangYou announces Renaissance Heroes

Posted: 07 May 2012 02:33 PM PDT

Renaissance Heroes has been announced by ChangYou, publishers of Dragon Oath and Sword Girls.

Renaissance Heroes (once known as DaVinci Online, and developed by Bridea, creators of Huxley) is a first-person shooter, set in an alternate-universe world of 16th century Renaissance Europe. Utilizing the Unreal Engine 3, Renaissance Heroes will support up to 12 players per match, a ranking system, playable heroes, over 100 achievements, and Renaissance-inspired weaponry. The game promises to offer “old school, arena-styled FPS gameplay.”

Closed beta is expected to launch this summer.

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Renaissance Heroes Gameplay Screenshot

Source:

ChangYou (US) Announces Renaissance Heroes

Fast-paced Online FPS Set in 16th Century Brings Back Classic Multiplayer Action

 

SANTA CLARA, CA (May 3, 2012) – ChangYou.com (US) Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of ChangYou.com Ltd. (NASDAQ: CYOU) and a leading publisher of online interactive entertainment in North America, today announced Renaissance Heroes, a brand new online multiplayer first-person shooter (FPS). The game is set in the beautifully re-imagined world of the 16th century Renaissance Europe, and is expected to launch its closed beta phase in summer 2012.

 

ChangYou is teaming up with Bridea, the creative minds behind Huxley, to bring Renaissance Heroes to FPS fans in North America. The game, previously known as “DaVinci Online,” combines classic multiplayer action with unparalleled visual realism powered by the Unreal Engine 3 technology to deliver the fun of fast-action shooters to a new generation of gamers. Renaissance Heroes invites players of all skill levels to experience the adrenaline-pumping action coupled with easy accessibility in a completely free to play environment later this year.

 

“We’re excited to be collaborating with Bridea on Renaissance Heroes,” said Dirk Metzger, VP of Publishing at ChangYou.com (US), Inc. “The team understands what it takes to create an awesome online multiplayer action game, and Renaissance Heroes represents the kind of unique, quality free-to-play games ChangYou is committed to publishing in the North American market.”

 

Renaissance Heroes is all about old school, arena-styled FPS gameplay,” said Michael Powers, Senior Producer at ChangYou.com (US), Inc. “Whether you’re a long-time FPS player or just looking for a great, fun way to blow off steam, this game offers all the intense action of the classic shooters.”

 

Renaissance Heroes takes place in an alternative history in which famed inventor Leonardo da Vinci has created a machine that could change the world. In the wake of his death, the plans for the mysterious invention have been scattered, and warring factions vie to claim them. Features of the game include:

  • The beautifully re-imagined world of the 16th century Renaissance period powered by the advanced Unreal Engine 3 technology with characters, weaponry and locales all elegantly designed to reflect the regal atmosphere of the time.
  • Competitive multiplayer environments of up to 12 players, including popular game modes such as Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch and Capture the Flag. The game features a comprehensive ranking system as well as over 100 unlockable achievements!
  • A roster of playable heroes, each with their own unique visuals and abilities to suit different play styles.
  • An arsenal of over a dozen of Renaissance-inspired weaponry familiar to any FPS fan. Snipe opponents from a distance with the crossbow or crush them at close range with a battle hammer.
  • Enhanced A.I. bots, in-game currency and experience reward system provide challenges to level up your character.

 

For more information on Renaissance Heroes and to sign up for the upcoming closed beta test, please visit the official website at www.RenaissanceHeroes.com.

Illyriad goes Organic – questions and answers

Posted: 07 May 2012 02:03 PM PDT

On April 23, Illyriad switched its world biology from a random generator to a new “organic” model.

Before, animals and troops were distributed randomly on the map; these have now been changed to follow a more logical model that follows animal habitats, breeding, and migration. This new system tracks over 1,500 variables and thousands of non-player populations and player interactions.

As a step in the growth of Illyriad, which will also include development of the NPC Factions system and a redesign of trade and economics, this change has warranted an FAQ from Illyriad, who explains the changes in depth:

Q: Illyriad’s new release changes the way that non-player characters behave in the game world. So is this an Artificial Intelligence upgrade?

 

James Niesewand, creator of Illyriad: It isn’t simply about having some artificial intelligence routines. We’ve built an organic intelligence system which allows us to model Mother Nature at a macro level, using fuzzy rules rather than scripted intelligence. Rather than have us seed the world with random groups of animals, armies, and so on, all with scripted behaviours, we have settled populations on the world, and built systems that influence their movement, breeding, aggression, and so on.

 

Q: Is this a system that the developers are particularly pleased with?

 

James: Pleased? To some extent, yes. We have some very cool maths here, and programmers like maths. But mainly, we’re excited. We don’t know of any other browser games that are attempting this kind of organic system. We’re using maths to simulate nature itself, which is a big deal for any game. And because our wonderfully unpredictable players are part of the system, because their actions have such a big impact, we have no idea what the exact consequences will be. That’s pretty exciting!

 

Q: In practical terms, how will this show itself to the players?

 

James: The first thing that players will notice with the animal populations, is that they now move around the map, with their herds or packs growing as they breed, and then dividing to form new populations. It will take longer for the depth of the logic to become apparent.

 

Q: What sort of behaviour will become apparent after that?

 

James: Players will soon notice that different animal populations thrive in specific biomes, regions and terrains. Migration patterns will develop organically, and will change as the players’ behaviours change. Of course population levels will be impacted by the players’ behaviours: the players are part of the system. So, as an example, without player intervention, if a pack or herd strays into territory where food is scarce, they will start to die off. And with player intervention there could be radical impacts on the populations of individual species, for example through over-hunting or player settlements.

 

Q: And in the longer term?

 

James: Illyriad’s world operates on a real annual cycle, so it will be a while before seasonal animal migrations become apparent, for example. Beyond that, there may be extreme impacts on the populations and distributions of different species, but as developers even we don’t know what the outcomes will be.

 

Q: How can the developers not know what the results will be?

 

James: Because we aren’t scripting specific behaviours, where we know that a chain of events will unfold. We’re creating a framework and then unleashing an intelligence within that. Since the players are part of that system, and we have no wish to control our players’ actions, we don’t know how it will unfold.

 

Q: What are the limitations of the system?

 

James: We’ve limited ourselves in two ways.

 

First, there’s no point simulating factors that the players can’t hope to understand. For example, it will make intuitive sense if animals tend to drift away from heavily populated areas, or if aggressive animals attack defenceless prey, or if populations are reduced by over-hunting, yes? But if we started to invisibly simulate the movements of prey animals that aren’t on the map, like rabbit populations for wolves to feed on, then we’d be introducing what would look like randomness – and that won’t make the game a more interesting place, just a more perplexing one.

 

Second, there are some hard and fast constraints. So, we do not allow extinction events. Players’ hunting and NPC interactions can massively vary species’ populations, but no species will ever be wiped out entirely. In the future players will need access to certain animal populations for different reasons, so, however zealous players may be in trying to eradicate certain species, they will never be entirely successful.

 

Q: So what is next for Illyriad? Is this organic system something that future releases will build on?

 

A: Certainly we will be building on this organic foundation. But we want to watch how it develops, what consequences emerge, before we build on or tinker with it. So the next couple of releases will be expanding other areas of Illyriad.

 

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Illyriad Gameplay Screenshot

Source:

Illyriad Goes Organic

April23rd 2012; London, UK: From today, acclaimed Free-to-Play Strategy game, Illyriad, will switch from a randomly-generated world biology, to an organic and emergent model.

Simplistic random distributions of animals and troops have been replaced with a coherent, logical model, encompassing different animal habitats, breeding, and migration. The mathematics behind the calculations include over 1,500 variables, and the game database tracks thousands of non-player populations, whose numbers and attitudes will be determined by players’ interactions with them.

"The depth of Illyriad has always been important to us as developers, just as it has been important to our players, and has been noted by the press," explains Illyriad’s founder, James Niesewand.

"So we wanted the non-player populations to behave sensibly, and organically, in response to players’ actions. As an example, animal populations in Illyriad have previously appeared randomly; now, each pack or herd of animals will be tracked in real time, its population increasing over time, and the pack splitting when the population grows to a certain point. Players will be able to dramatically impact the sizes of animal populations, which will have multiple consequences."

These changes are not only an evolution in the design of strategy games. They are also an important step in the growth of Illyriad itself, a necessary precursor to an overhauled trade and economic system, and further development of the NPC Factions systems, expected later this year.

Illyriad’s latest release, including organic animal populations, and other features, goes live from today.

Illyriad

Posted: 07 May 2012 01:51 PM PDT

Illyriad offers players a browser-based, free-to-play city building RTS. The world offers you a great many challenges as you build an empire from the ground up. Will you focus on trade, becoming an important part of the flow of goods? Perhaps a war-like city state or even an information network. Join with others, or forge your own path as you quest, scout, raid, and conquer.

51285  320x240 illyriad 03

Publisher: Illyriad Games
Playerbase: ??
Graphics: Medium
Type: MMORTS
EXP Rate: ??
PvP: Enabled
Filesize: N/A

Pros: +Very in-depth for a browser RTS. +Different styles of play to suit different players. +Large variety of troops, tactics and magic to choose from.

Cons: -May seem generic to most. -Limited information available.

official site

Overview

Illyriad Overview

Illyriad is an in-depth browser RTS that gives players a wide range of playstyles. The game features hundreds of different troop types, from infantry and archers, to cavalry and siege engines. However, players are also free to establish themselves as a trade kingdom, or even utilize a spy network instead. With multiple races to choose from, and nearly a hundred factions vying for control of the country, there is plenty of ways to play the game.

Illyriad Screenshots

Illyriad Featured Video

Click here to view the embedded video.

Full Review

Illyriad Full Review

Coming Soon…

Screenshots

Illyriad Screenshots

Coming Soon…

Videos

Illyriad Videos

Illyriad Two Year Anniversary Dev Chat

Click here to view the embedded video.

Links

Illyriad Links

Official Game Page

System Requirements

Illyriad System Requirements

Coming Soon . . .

 

Requiem offers new browser celebration events

Posted: 07 May 2012 11:20 AM PDT

Gravity Interactive has launched new events to celebrate the browser version of Requiem.

All players (web client or full client) will earn a 40% experience bonus when logged in, which will stack with all premium items. Players can also earn up to three chances to win a $100 Amazon.com gift card. Players can also go collecting pieces of the Nightmare Accessory Sets in Nightmare Crescent, and by collecting two to eight of these components, they will be entered to win in another raffle with gaming gear, WarpPoints, and in-game items as prizes.

A GM Hide and Seek event will reward 500 WP and 5 Gift Boxes to players who take a screenshot of a GM and post it on the Requiem Facebook Page. Finally, a new 4v4 Battlefield Tournament (for characters above level 69) will take place.

Gravity Interactive also publishes Ragnarok Online and Dragon Saga.

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Requiem Gameplay Screenshot

Source:

REQUIEM SCARES UP TWO CONTESTS

EXP Bonuses, PVP Sweepstakes, And Much More!

Marina del Rey, California – May 07, 2012 – Gravity Interactive, a publisher of exciting massive multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs), today launch two simultaneous contests for the browser version of their popular dark-fantasy MMO title, Requiem, which players can now enjoy right in their web browsers courtesy of the Kalydo service (http://www.kalydo.com/). Players both new and old have the opportunity to win some of the sweetest prizes yet on the official website at http://www.playrequiem.com/.

Whether beginning a new character or already an established player, Gravity has a treat in store for you. All users will be treated to a 40% EXP bonus when logged in using the web client or the full client. This bonus stacks will all premium items including pets and scrolls for the biggest boon found in Requiem yet! Use this time to build your character, preparing for the PVP sweepstakes. Win up to three entries into a drawing for a $100 Amazon.con gift certificate.

One does not simply retire from Requiem. All inactive characters will be welcomed back with open arms, and their own competition. Go hunting for loot in Nightmare Crescent to gather the ingredients for crafting new Nightmare Accessory Sets. Collect from two to eight of these coveted components for a chance to win prizes including gaming gear, WP (WarpPoints), and other in-game items!

All players should keep their eyes peeled for GMs during the Hide and Seek event. Snap a screenshot beside any of the GMs, post it on the Requiem Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/playrequiem, to win 500 WP and 5 Gift Boxes. Then join with three allies for the 4 vs. 4 Battlefield Tournament, open to all characters level 69 and above.


C9 Global PVP Tournament takes next step

Posted: 07 May 2012 10:56 AM PDT

Webzen has announced the start of the registration for the first C9 (Continent of the Ninth) Global PvP Tournament.

Yesterday (May 6), the C9 Tournament Registration Test came to an end. Today, and until May 9, players can now register for the actual tournament. The tournament will begin on May 16.

The top two qualifying teams will go to Los Angeles to compete in the finals at E3, for a chance at a $10,000 grand prize.

During the tournament, the final closed beta test will take place and the new class, Berserker, will be revealed.

Webzen also publishes Archlord and Mu Online.

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C9 Championship Promotional Artwork

Source:

The '2012 C9 Championship Tournament' is One Step Closer to $10,000

WEBZEN Inc. (WWW.WEBZEN.COM), the Next Generation of Free-to-Play Online Games, announced the finale of the Tournament Registration Test for their Action RPG 'C9 (Continent of the Ninth Seal)' and has begun preparation for the first Global PVP Tournament.

 

Last May 6th, the C9 Tournament Registration Test had come to an end after a month of non-stop action. To continue action, registration for the online tournament has started and will continue until May 9th (PDT).

 

The online tournament that starts on May 16th (PDT) will determine the final top 2 qualifying teams that will head on to Los Angeles, U.S.A. where the first official offline tournament finals will be held. Only one team will be victorious and win a grand prize of $10,000 (USD).

 

Currently among the registrations, there are many teams with diverse backgrounds. Some have experience in other competitive tournaments, while others are e-sports teams from ESL, or guilds from other well-known MMORPGs, masters of action games, and more. However, all have one thing in common; the goal to win the final grand prize.

 

Jihun Lee, Head of Global Publishing, said, "During the 2012 C9 Championship Final, the producer and developers of C9 will join us to add to the excitement." Also he said, "We hope to see many participants for online tournament that will build the excitement for the finals in June.

 

Meanwhile, C9 will have its Final CBT during the online tournament and reveal the new class, Berserker. The Berserker is an advanced class from the elite fighter and has the most powerful attacks using its two handed sword.

 

More information about the Action RPG 'C9' can be found at the official Facebook community (www.facebook.com/C9Webzen) and website (c9.webzen.com).

 

Loark

Posted: 04 May 2012 05:57 PM PDT

Loark is a 2.5D action-adventure game. Players adventure in various maps, defeating monsters and gaining gold, loot, and experience. Choose between a Charmer, Giant, and Shaman, and use your skills to defeat your opponents. Engage in fast and intense PvP with various maps, all chosen randomly throughout play. Loark is easy to pick up, play, and enjoy.

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Publisher: Clap Along
Playerbase: ??
Graphics: Low
Type: MMORPG
EXP Rate: ??
PvP: Yes, random maps.
Filesize: N/A

Pros: +Simple, intuitive gameplay. +Action-oriented. +Variety of skills and abilities.

Cons: -Too much like other action MMOs. -Limited information available.

official site

Overview

Loark Overview

Loark is similar to games like Mythos and Diablo, being a 2.5D top don experience. Players choose from one of three classes, and use their unique skills and abilities in monster filled maps. Along the way, you will gather loot and coin. Weapons can be upgraded through the game’s Morale system, which gives them more and more power to defeat opponents. Every five minutes, the game determines one map that is an evil zone, where players can freely PvP each other.

Loark Screenshots

Loark Featured Video

Click here to view the embedded video.

Full Review

Loark Full Review

Coming Soon…

Screenshots

Loark Screenshots

Coming Soon…

Videos

Loark Videos

Official Loark Trailer

Click here to view the embedded video.

Links

Loark Links

Official Game Page

System Requirements

Loark System Requirements

Coming Soon . . .

 

MilMo

Posted: 04 May 2012 05:06 PM PDT

MilMo is an adventure MMO played right in your browser. Explore an island world full of surprises, finding hidden tokens to create amazing items and weapons. Create your own avatar, using a huge selection of clothes, armor, haircuts, and more. Discover an epic storyline, filled with action, mystery, and intrigue as you engage enemies in fast paced combat.

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Publisher: Junebud AB
Playerbase: ??
Graphics: Medium
Type: MMORPG
EXP Rate: ??
PvP: No
Filesize: N/A

Pros: +Action gameplay in a browser game. +Many customization options. +Quest driven.

Cons: -Designed for younger players. -Limited information available.

official site

Overview

MilMo Overview

In MilMo, you get to explore a 3D island full of hidden places and interesting locations. Your avatar is fully customizable, down to the clothes you wear and the expression on your face. The game is a quest driven experience, however, you’re also free to roam around the island to discover new things. The game rewards exploration with Exploration Tokens, which can be used to craft items.

MilMo Screenshots

MilMo Featured Video

Click here to view the embedded video.

Full Review

MilMo Full Review

Coming Soon…

Screenshots

MilMo Screenshots

Coming Soon…

Videos

MilMo Videos

Official MilMo Trailer

Click here to view the embedded video.

Links

MilMo Links

Official Game Page

System Requirements

MilMo System Requirements

Coming Soon . . .

 

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