MMO updates

MMO updates

[ChinaJoy 2011] Jake Song's view on MMO generations

Posted: 28 Jul 2011 06:34 AM PDT


Well, I know I have been reporting too much about Jake Song and his visions for the future of online gaming, but I can't help but to admire the man and his goal sometimes. During his speech at the China Game Developer Conference, Jake Song listed out some points of what makes a first, second and third generation online game and the difference each has. You may read more about it in this interview as well (link). Here is a summarized list I compiled.


While I understand not everyone will agree with his categorization, it seems quite true to me, especially the part about developers providing content updates all the time and unable to catch up with the consumption rate by players. I wonder why is there no announcement for an English server thus far...

[ChinaJoy 2011] A closer look at Red 5 Studios' booth

Posted: 28 Jul 2011 02:42 AM PDT


In my previous post (link), the million dollar status was the main focus. Since 2 of the Chinese websites I frequent has nothing but good words for Red 5 Studios' booth, let me now post more pictures taken at the ChinaJoy 2011. There was also a short interview about the game as well here (link). For the English crowd in the official forums, you might notice one or two familiar faces in the early pictures, while the Asian will be Tony Park from The9 Interactive.

[ChinaJoy 2011] Snail Game receives USD 80 million

Posted: 28 Jul 2011 02:28 AM PDT


Snail Game, developer of the much anticipated martial arts MMORPG, Age of Wulin, signed a deal worth USD 80 million with Russian gaming company Mental Game earlier today. This deal will see Mental Game acquiring Snail Game's various MMO titles, apparently including those which are yet to be announced publicly. The 2 companies are currently co-developing 2 online games, including Black Gold Online (link). Below are pictures taken from the signing ceremony.

[ChinaJoy 2011] Tencent Games reveal Blade & Sword 2

Posted: 28 Jul 2011 02:15 AM PDT


Before I continue, the game is not Blade & Soul, which Tencent Games also has the rights for in China. Blade & Sword 2 is instead developed by a China studio, Pixel Soft. There are several highlights for the game, including advanced AI for all mobs and bosses, 9 different weapons to choose from including a sub-weapon system and the ability to grab, toss, float, block and start combo movements using an advanced development engine.The game is scheduled to enter its first beta phase late August.

[ChinaJoy 2011] Archeage - iOS application revealed

Posted: 28 Jul 2011 06:04 AM PDT


After ChinaJoy 2011's China Game Developer Conference (CGDC), XL Games revealed a new trailer which showcased Archeage's very own iOS application. This app will allow players to search for character details and messaging services. More features are expected to be added on in due time. The service is apparently teased for the Korean server at this point of time.


Jake Song, the founder of XL Games, gave a much anticipated speech at CGDC, but I shall not translate it as the content is pretty much similar to what I posted yesterday (link).

[ChinaJoy 2011] Showgirls of Perfect World

Posted: 28 Jul 2011 12:57 AM PDT


I was going to actually do 1 or 2 parts of showgirls special right at the end of ChinaJoy 2011, but one company's showgirls are just too hot to be without their own post. I am talking about Perfect World, and god knows how did they manage to gather so many beauties at the same time and day. So, without further a due, feast your eyes upon them!

[ChinaJoy 2011] Duke of Mount Deer - Tons of collectibles

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 11:08 PM PDT


Arguably one of the most expensive Free to Play online games to be developed, costing upwards of USD 80 million (link), ChangYou's Duke of Mount Deer Online is one of the main highlights in ChinaJoy 2011. The game went into Open Beta just a few days ago, and the company has brought along quite a number of purchasable collectibles to the game convention. And yes, those are bolster covers. I think there is a Japanese term for it, but I seem to have forgotten the word.


Here are some pictures of Duke of Mount Deer Online's booth design and of course, the showgirls stationed there.

[ChinaJoy 2011] Firefall - Million dollar statue revealed

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 10:14 PM PDT


In the preview for Firefall at ChinaJoy 2011 (link), I mentioned about a USD 1 million statue being custom made for the event. The status has now been revealed and is the centerpiece of Red 5 Studios' booth. According to reports, the Firefall status came out tops when comparing with others around due to its life-likeness. Well, for a million bucks it better be! As for the 4th Battleframe, it is currently not revealed yet.

[ChinaJoy 2011] From the Ground - Part 1

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 08:29 PM PDT


Obviously, I am not at ChinaJoy 2011 (sigh), but I am armed with around 10 websites with updates from the latest news and happening at the convention. To kick things off, here are some pictures taken there to give you guys a feel how does the event looks like during preparation and setting up.


From what I read, most models only had one day (yesterday) to rehearse for the event.I am sure there will be Part 2 *fingers crossed*, so stay tuned!

[ChinaJoy 2011] Mysterious title at Shanda Games' booth

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 07:45 PM PDT


The first official news I am posting on ChinaJoy 2011. In my previous post (link), many industry veterans were expecting Shanda Games to reveal its new title as TERA China. But that might not be the case, as this new ink-inspired game (think Street Fighter 4) was spotted at the company's booth.


While not confirmed to be the mysterious new 9th and final title, the game looks pretty awesome. It is said the game is also aiming to hit the Xbox Live Arcade in the future. I have no name for it, as the directly translated one will sound weird... like... Tornado Cloud =.=

[ChinaJoy 2011] Preview - Transformers Online

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 07:00 PM PDT


Before I forget, I think I missed out on Transformers Online. Licensed only to Asia regions, with Jagex developing Transformers Universe (browser MMO), Transformers Online is a MMOTPS, or online third person shooter. If you have missed out my previous posts on the game, do click on the (link) here.


Developed by China's NetDragon, also the company behind Dungeon Keeper Online, a new third faction was revealed besides the Autobots and Decepticons. It is now officially known as Pirates, a group of renegades loyal to neither side led by their leader, Thundertron. Thundertron blames all inhabitants of Cybertron for his planet's demise, hence he destroys all no matter if they are Autobots or Decepticons. The storyline is actually much longer, but I am lazy.


There are currently 6 selling points of the game listed, which includes the TPS mode supporting a clear 260 degrees view for players, various PvP modes, exciting new concept PvE modes, up to 5 different types of builds available and over 100 kinds of vehicles to transform into. The first Closed Beta starts in August, but I am sure I won't be able to get in given the stringent rules imposed on getting suck keys nowadays in China.

[ChinaJoy 2011] Preview - Black Gold Online Part 2

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 06:06 PM PDT


As mentioned in my previous post (link), Black Gold Online is a new steampunk MMORPG developed by Russian studio Mental Games and China's Snail Game (Age of Wulin fame). I was surfing around the internet on my daily routine when I realized I did not pay a visit to Mental Games' website. True enough, there were more accurate details there.


The game story starts in an interesting and unusual world full of adventures. In this world there exists a special resource, which is called "Black Gold". This resource doesn't only give power to steam engines, but also to the shamans and casters for magical use. From the "Black Gold" one can make a "Black Steam" – which combines the energy of steam and magic.

This world consists of Erlandir and Eisenhorst lands, which are separated by a Great Mountain Chain. Due to this mountain chain – the sun shines only on the Eastern part of the lands, that's why Erlandir is always lit with sun, while Eisenhorst is in a never ending darkness.

The rich sunlight on Erlandir gave birth to lots of elements under the land. These elements accumulated for centuries finally forming a magical resource – "Black Gold".

Humans, Koshs and Brutes, which inhabit Erlandir always filled themselves with magic and energies of "Black Gold". Their life totally depended on that resource.

In Eisenhorst, Dwarves, Humans and Vampires, which immigrated from Erlandir formed a Steam Alliance. For their prosperity and creation of civilization they used steam technologies invented by Dwarves. However in result of war and overproduction, the coal they used to power their steam machines started to disappear rapidly. At this moment, the ambitious leader of the Steam Alliance – king Beltain the Second formed a great army to conquer Erlandir for the "Black Gold" as it was much more efficient than coal.

This is the moment, when the player enters the world and starts to build his own history. He should decide which side he wants to support and who should rule the world.
Game features:

- Victorian Steam punk versus Fantasy world
- Unique races: Koshs, Brutes, Vampires
- Unique classes: Mechwarrior, Inquisitor, Mystic, Techno adept, Werewolf, Alchemist, Witcher
- Picturesque world full of adventures
- Fight goes on over a special resource – "Black Gold"
- Ability to build a Steam Fortress

Below are more screenshots from the website and I am sure more will be available when ChinaJoy 2011 starts in... a few minutes' time! Black Gold Online is currently scheduled for a released @ end 2012.

[ChinaJoy 2011] Preview - Interview with Jake Song

Posted: 28 Jul 2011 12:48 AM PDT


Probably final post before ChinaJoy 2011 officially begins in a few hours' time! If you didn't know, Jake Song is the creator of Lineage and ArcheAge is the maiden title of his own development company, XL Games. Licensed to Tencent Games in China, the man himself is at ChinaJoy 2011 and a reporter from gaming website 17173,com managed to have an interview with him. Read on! Please note that not all parts are translated.


Q: You are still playing World of Warcraft regularly after setting up XL Games. What kind of inspiration did the game has on ArcheAge?

A: I was once a loyal World of Warcraft player too. I remembered when I first started playing, the game fulfilled everything I had in mind for a perfect game. But as time passed by, I realized that although World of Warcraft is a masterpiece, it couldn't exceed the its generation, hence players can only play whatever content which  is already set for them.

No matter how we respect World of Warcraft, there is bound to be a new product which will be totally different and break the ceiling set, giving players a whole new gaming experience.

Q: You coined ArcheAge as a 3rd generation MMO, so what differences does ArchAge have compared to the previous generation games? Which content found will give players a refreshing touch?

A: A third generation MMO consists of all positive points from present titles, exceeding all in terms of quality and adding in brand new concepts. As development engines improve, we have the chance to showcase a stunning game world to the players. Hence, most features which were limited by technology in the previous generations will be made possible in ArcheAge, giving players a never-before experience in terms of graphics, sound effects and more.

The important thing is the change in concepts and values, players can now convert from playing fixed content to becoming part of the game's creator, customizing a game world in his vision.

Q: Other than World of Warcraft, the Korean media frequently compared ArcheAge and NCsoft's Blade & Soul. Which do you think are the games' main selling points?

A: Both games have their own unique points, but different from previous online games, ArcheAge allows players to create their own content and world, making the gameplay more fun. Blade & Soul is a very excellent title, its graphics and combat left me deep memories.

Q: You previously told the Korean media (link) that you wish Blade & Soul to "let you off", why is that so? Both games are now under Tencent Games in China, do you foresee an internal "war"?

A: When a better product is available, players will have more options, which is a good thing for the China players. A really excellent title, especially with new concepts and styles of playing, is never afraid of competition. I believe Tencent Games will operate both games very well. Blade & Soul and ArcheAge are going in different directions in terms of aim, hence there will be 2 different groups of players the games are catering to.

Q: You are known in the industry as a talented developer, Father of Lineage and once an influential figure in both Nexon and NCsoft. Will XL Games be the bext Nexon or NCsoft?

A: NCsoft and Nexon are both excellent companies while XL Games still has a long way to go. Success depends on what kind of products we have and if players accept them. Hence, my biggest wish now is to make a good MMORPG. No matter what, I will do my best in developing ArcheAge, continue to explore and discover new concepts and ways of playing, and through ArcheAge present them to players. The acknowledgement of players is the biggest success in my life.

Q: ArcheAge is an online game focusing strongly on personal growth, hence players will have to invest more time into the game. Will this lead to the business model leaning more towards having a regular fee?

A: The final business model is not confirmed as of now., but we will keep players' suggestions in mind. Our core objective is to let more players enjoy what ArcheAge has to offer, so this will be the main point when settling on a business model eventually.


Q: The time players spend consuming game content is always much faster than the time developers can add in new content. For developing content from level 60 to 70, a few hundred developers may take up to several months to develop the required game content only to be consumed by players within a few nights. How do you view this problem? How will ArcheAge minimize this problem?

A: If the core content of a game is focused on questing, storyline, characters and lore, this game will find it hard to sustain in the long run. As mentioned, the speed of developing new content will never catch up with the time players use to consume them. In order to let the game operate in the long run, development of the game's final content should be started at the beginning phase.

For example, ArcheAge in its early development phase already has housing, naval wars, castle siege etc. The aim is to let players change the world after reaching a certain point, coming up with new playing styles, from communicating with the system to communicating with fellow players. The concept must be changed from "playing what is being provided" to "changing the original concept, content and play style". This will allow a game to run for the long term. Overall, a game's content is still the key to its longevity.

Q: You once that to you, being a gaming industry veteran is better a hundred time than being a doctor or lawyer. What is the biggest joy in being a gaming person? Is there any dream you will like to fulfill in the gaming world?

A: Games, especially MMORPG, is being played by many people and can is said to be one's second life. In a game's world, it is as if I am in a different world, allowing me to live differently in another way. Developing a game is like creating anew world to me, this kind of joy is not something which can be achieved in real life. Coming up with new concepts and play styles and thus creating happiness for the players is my ultimate aim.

Q: What kind of requirements should one have to be recognize as a talented developer? In the global gaming industry, is there anyone you look up to?

A: My idea of a talented developer is that he should be extremely passionate, a creative mind coming up with new concepts and takes care of a game's main focus point. The 2 person I look up to most will be Shigeru Miyamoto (creator of the Mario franchise) and Sid Meier (both of them are developing Civilization Online).


Q: In the actual world, what are the events which will give you inspirations? Will you choose to play more of other online games or get outside of gaming to search for them?

A: Discussions with my team, experiencing all kinds of games will all provide me with inspirations. Since MMORPG is like a second life, I will use some of the real world's understandings and implement it into the game. At the same time, I like to read comics, novels, dramas, movies etc.

Q: A trouble with online games in China is the serious case of many products getting too similar with each other. Which is the right way to go, a "small" revolution or a "big" one?

A: Either option is a step forward for the industry, hence it is hard to determine which is "right". A creative game similar to Lineage (Jake smiled) will bring a "big" revolution to the industry, following that with both "big" and "small" changes in creativity to reach the stage we are at now.

Q: In your opinion, are online games a form or entertainment or a product?

A: Games consist of both. It is a form of entertainment and a product at the same time. Online gaming is an affordable choice of entertainment, with almost no boundaries to prevent people from playing. The philosophy is the same, if a dish is very good but the place's service is not up to par, not many people will go try the dish.

[ChinaJoy 2011] Preview - Firefall

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 10:15 AM PDT


Previously (link), I posted about how Red 5 Studios will be setting up its own mega booth at ChinaJoy 2011 without the help of its biggest investor, China-based The9 Interactive. Earlier today, a Korean reporter managed to get hold of Red 5 Studios' James MaCauley, also the Executive Producer for Firefall, for a short interview (not at ChinaJoy). Please note that this interview is translated from Chinese.


Q: There are currently 3 Battleframes revealed. Is there any new one coming?
A: Adding to the current list (Recon, Medic and Assault), there will be a new Battleframe revealed on 28th July at ChinaJoy.

Q: Will larger PvP maps holding more people be added? 5 VS 5 maps seem to be small.
A: Yes, there will be. 5 VS 5 maps will be the smallest PvP maps we have in Firefall. Larger PvP maps holding more players will be added and we are planing to implement a world map system to allow players from all over the world to join in (no idea what is this about).

Q: If there are too many players in the same map at the same time, doesn't it mean more powerful systems are needed? What are the required specs for Firefall?
A: Firefall is still in the development phase and no specs are being set yet. The minimal requirement at this stage is a GF9800 graphics card.

Q: Other than PvP, what other features will players get to enjoy?
A: We will be adding new modes to cater for single-players as well as gathering resources and more.

Q: Will there me a mount or transport system in Firefall?
A: We are currently developing the mount system, which will be added into the game soon. The official name for this system is not finalized yet.

Q: With Firefall going to Free to Play with a cash shop, will this be the same for Korea?
A: We will not be collecting fees for items which are regularly used and we are still observing the Korean online market's business models.

Q: What kind of online game is Firefall exactly?
A: We started development of the game as a FPS/TPS and long the way added in RPG and RTS elements. Even if people see it as a hybrid, we prefer to know Firefall as a FPS/TPS title.

Q: We heard that Firefall will support real 3D technology. Is this news real?
A: Yes, we are currently testing the 3D technology which will be available in Firefall. We are currently having some troubles with regards to optimizing the resolutions no matter the distance.


Back to ChinaJoy, the company's USD 1 million statue is already at the convention hall and looking ready to stun the crowd. Be back in a few hours for more news as ChinaJoy 2011 kicks off!

[ChinaJoy 2011] Preview - Dungeon Keeper Online

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 09:45 AM PDT


Originally directly translated as Dungeon Keeper World, the name was changed to Dungeon Keeper Online some weeks back. The game, developed jointly by NetDragon and Electronic Arts (EA), is currently in its official Closed Beta phase which will last till 15th August. Below are some photos taken while the stage is being set up at ChinaJoy 2011.


If you have not read my previous posts (link), Dungeon Keeper Online retains the old dungeon building features, but added in a 3D RPG function as well, playing just like any other online MMOs (think World of Warcraft). Players will get to alternate between the dungeon and land modes, with this feature called "Dual Core" system. For example, players may gather materials or kill mobs for drops to be used in building and expanding their dungeon. When in the dungeon, players will be in a RTS mode. You can see this system in the trailer below.


At ChinaJoy 2011, there is even merchandise on sale for the game!And yes that is a bolster you see.  No, I am not kidding. I wonder when will I get to attend any gaming conventions...


The game is set for an English release, which I posted before (link). The game is looking good, and I hope I get the chance to try it once Open Beta starts. Getting a Closed Beta key for China MMOs is a chore nowadays! Below are the previously released trailers for the game. Enjoy!
Posted by Shri Krishna

General gaming

General gaming

Now You Can Write for 1UP's Editorial Blogs

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 10:30 PM PDT

Maybe I'm a little biased, since they were my pet project, but 1UP's editorial blogs -- Retronauts, Freeloader, The Tilt, The Grind, Chiptuned, and the rest -- have always felt to me like one of the site's strongest features. They're a way for writers to move away from the more objective, analytical tone of the "traditional" sections like news and reviews, a place where we can speak more from the heart. The blogs are specialized and editorialized, and often bring out the best in their contributors.

Free Red Dead Redemption DLC Bolsters Multiplayer in September

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 05:34 PM PDT

Red Dead Redemption Myths and Mavericks bonus pack

As was promised early last month, a batch of free downloadable content is on the way for Red Dead Redemption. It's intended to be a sign of appreciation for the fans who have supported the game since it came out last May -- hence the reason it's free.

The Myths and Mavericks bonus pack isn't as hefty as the premium DLC packs that were released last year, though it should breathe some new life into multiplayer. It'll include new multiplayer characters, including Landon Ricketts (pictured above), and new multiplayer levels for Deathmatch, Grab the Bag, and Gang matches, among other modes. A patch is planned to come out prior to the the DLC which will bring back the original settings for the Undead Overrun mode that was added with the Undead Nightmare expansion.

The DLC is currently on schedule to be available on the Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation Network in September. Sadly, there is still no sign of a PC release.

Madden 12 Demo Features Packers vs. Bears

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 04:29 PM PDT

Madden NFL 12

Madden may be coming out a bit later than usual this year, though there will still be a way to get some new Madden action in during early August. EA Sports today announced that the Madden NFL 12 demo will be available for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 on Tuesday, August 9.

Whereas last year's demo featured the two teams from the AFC Championship Game (the New York Jets and Indianapolis Colts), this year will feature the NFC side. That means players will get to play out a full-length game (by default settings, at least) between the Chicago Bears and Super Bowl champion Green Bay Packers on the Bears' Soldier Field. Quarters will last five minutes each, so there should be a chance to actually get more than a single possession or two.

The NFL lockout lifted earlier this week, ensuring that the upcoming NFL season will proceed as planned. Madden's Franchise mode won't reflect the changes to the new collective bargaining agreement, which are too complex to be patched in later, according to the game's official Twitter (via Kotaku). Thankfully, a roster update will be available at launch that includes any roster moves that happen in the coming weeks. (An update I hope includes Nnamdi Asomugha going to the Jets.)

Resident Evil 4 and Code Veronica HD Will Cost $20 Each

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 03:55 PM PDT


The downloadable HD versions of Resident Evil Code: Veronica X and Resident Evil 4 will carry fairly hefty price tags for games that were release ten and six years ago, respectively. Each game will cost $19.99 (1600 Microsoft Points) to download when they're released later this year.

As previously announced, RE4, despite coming out later in the series, will be the first of the two out of the gate. It'll be available from the Games on Demand service and PlayStation Network on September 20, followed a week later by Code: Veronica X on September 27. RE4 is the more highly regarded of the two, though it is already available on PlayStation 2, GameCube, PC, and Wii, along with several mobile versions. Code Veronica X was originally a Dreamcast game and was subsequently ported to PS2 and GameCube.

Both games are being remastered with HD graphics, though they'll hardly look like modern releases. They will also support Achievements and Trophies, something that will make them more than worth the price of admission for many. For others, the lack of new content or major improvements to the graphics may make $40 total too steep a price.

Red Faction's Future at THQ Doesn't Sound Promising

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 03:19 PM PDT

Red Faction Armageddon

Red Faction: Armageddon didn't really manage to stand out after being released last month. THQ shared its first quarter fiscal results today, and Armageddon's sales came in below expectations. As a result of its lack of success, the franchise doesn't sound like it has much of a future.

CEO Brian Farrell talked about how the game didn't resonate with a "sufficiently broad console audience." THQ as a whole didn't do as well as it expected during its first quarter, with Farrell saying he was "disappointed." Unlike Homefront, which was considered "moderately successful" and will be seeing a sequel, THQ doesn't have much in the way of plans to move forward with Red Faction.

"Given that that title now in two successive versions has just found a niche, we do not intend to carry forward with that franchise in any meaningful way," said Paul J. Pucino, THQ's chief financial officer. He said that developer Volition is a "very talented team" and has moved on to develop Guillermo del Toro's game, Insane.

Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3DS Port Delayed

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 01:55 PM PDT


Update: As the news of a Snake Eater 3D delay originally came from Kotaku Australia, we checked with Konami to see if the delay also applies for North America and were told a release date has yet to be announced for the region. That's hardly a reassurance that it's coming later this year as previously believed, and it also gives Konami the ability to slide into 2012, if it so chooses. We'll report back as we learn more.

Original Story: Yet another 3DS game won't be coming as soon as expected. Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D has been pushed back until 2012, Kotaku reports.

There's no precise new date for the game's release next year; it'll just be coming sometime in 2012. It's especially disappointing in light of Mega Man Legends 3 being canceled and both Shinobi and Crush3D getting delayed, though this may turn out to be for the best.

Disney Looks to Take Over El Shaddai, Deadly Premonition Publisher Ignition's Parent Company, UTV

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 01:00 PM PDT

El Shaddai

The largest shareholder of UTV Software Communications, the Walt Disney Company, is looking to buy up the rest of the company and pull it from the stock market, according to Reuters. It already owns 50.4% of the India-based media conglomerate, which is the parent company of game publisher Ignition Entertainment.

UTV is comprised of four different branches, in addition to its gaming operations: television, film, broadcasting, and digital content. According to an anonymous analyst Reuters spoke with, "Walt Disney has always been interested in most of UTV's business, especially the gaming part."

Ignition rebranded itself as UTV Ignition Entertainment last year as it looked to focus increasingly on digital platforms like Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, Facebook, and so on. Following that, a pair of projects -- WarDevil and Reich -- were canceled.

Revamped 360 ESPN App Might be Better Than Watching Sports on TV

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 11:57 AM PDT

ESPN 2.0 Xbox 360 App

Last year's Xbox 360 fall dashboard update brought with it ESPN3 support, allowing for a selection of sports content to be streamed to the console. All that's required is an Xbox Live Gold subscription and an Internet service provider that delivers ESPN3. It's hardly perfect, but it did allow for sports fans to take in 32 college football bowl games this past December and January. While the app has gotten some minor upgrades since launch, it'll be getting a big revamp next month with ESPN 2.0.

According to Gizmodo, the updated app will still deliver the same ESPN3 content as before, which will immediately cause some to lose interest. For those who do care about what it has on tap -- college football, in particular -- there will be a wealth of new features available beginning on August 25, including the ability to simultaneously watch two streams in 720p that can be independently paused and rewinded with a controller or Kinect voice commands.

Besides the obvious benefits of watching two different games, it opens the door for other possibilities: you could have highlights or stats on one side while watching a game on the other, or you could watch a game on both sides and rewind through one of them to see something a second time. One example that was given saw a soccer game playing on one side while rewinding through the other to show someone a goal they missed.

Ubisoft's "Always On" DRM Brought Back for Driver: San Francisco on PC

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 11:08 AM PDT

Driver: San Francisco

PC gamers planning to pick up Driver: San Francisco will want to ensure they have a reliable Internet connection before doing so. Ubisoft has revealed the game will require a constant connection in order to play.

The news was made official on the Driver Twitter account (via Eurogamer) yesterday. The console versions, meanwhile, will be the first Ubisoft games to be saddled with the new Uplay Passport, meaning a one-use code will be included with new copies that must be redeemed in order to access online multiplayer and other bonus features. The Passport can be purchased separately for $9.99.

Driver isn't the first game Ubisoft has forced gamers to be online to play. It did the same with Assassin's Creed 2 and Splinter Cell: Conviction, causing players to risk losing their progress if their Internet connection dropped out. A Namco Bandai executive approved of the decision last year, calling it "a good strategy."

1UP's GelaSkins Console Customization Giveaway

Posted: 27 Jul 2011 09:15 AM PDT

1UP's GelaSkins Console Customization Giveaway
How To Play

GelaSkins make EVERYTHING cooler.

Case closed.

Today's prize allows you to put any picture you want on any awesome device you may have. iPhone? Customize it. Xbox 360? Customize it. PS3? DSi? Laptops? Customize it! What's not to like? YOUR device, YOUR style. 'Nuff said.
Posted by Shri Krishna

MMOGaming News

MMOGaming News

[ChinaJoy 2011] ArcheAge Trailer + iOS App Reveal

Posted:

After ChinaJoy 2011's China Game Developer Conference (CGDC), XL Games revealed a new trailer which showcased Archeage's very own iOS application. This app will allow players to search for character details and messaging services. More features are expected to be added on in due time. The service is apparently teased for the Korean server at this point of time.

WoW: New Trading Card Game Art Gallery Update

Posted:

Blizzard have updated Trading Card Game art gallery to feature ten new pieces. Each image is taken directly from the official World of Warcraft Trading Card Game. Be sure to give a shout-out to your favorite pieces in the comments.

UWO - The Ottomans Dominate This Extensive Expansion

Posted:

CJ E&M, the leading global entertainment company, announced that the all-new Ottoman Empire is joining the six existing nations in the seafaring MMO Uncharted Waters Online. This new contender has the best military resources, and is thus a huge threat to the Western European Nations.

Vindictus: Fights of Lethita, Fiona & Evy (Video & Screenshots)

Posted:

Vindictus has recently unveiled a new video and some new screenshots regarding the combats conducted by use of various weapons and magical powers. The new video mainly depicts the duel between the warrior Lethita and monsters, while the screenshots show how the mage Evy and the swordswoman Fiona (both at lvl 20 or so) battle with monsters.

Black Gold Releases More Info, Debut Trailer Unveiled

Posted:

Days ago, we had a post unveiling Black Gold, Snail Games's latest project. It is known that Black Gold is a new steampunk MMORPG developed by Russian studio Mental Games and China's Snail Game who also developed Age of Wulin. Black Gold will be present at this year's ChinaJoy. Before more detailed information comes out, MMO Culture has discovered some more accurate details including the background story, game features and a debut trailer by visiting Mental Games's website.

Action Strategy MMOG Realm of the Titans CBT Finally Starts

Posted:

Aeria Games, a global publisher of free-to-play online games, announced that Realm of the Titans (ROTT), its latest DotA-inspired action strategy title, has officially entered Closed Beta testing (CBT).

ChinaJoy 2011 - Age of Wulin Preview

Posted:

The highly-anticipated martial art MMORPG Age of Wulin is present at ChinaJoy 2011. While on the eve, Snail Game leaked several videos features tons of details.

ChinaJoy 2011 Opens on July 28, 4 Highlights Unveils

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Being the largest game expo in China, ChinaJoy will make its ninth appearance in Shanghai from July 28 to July 31following the E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) in USA and TGS (Tokyo Game Show) in Japan. This year's ChinaJoy reaches an area of 60,000+ square meters and has attracted 300+ internet entertainment companies from more than 50 countries and regions around the world, in company with hundreds of online games. So, what highlights can we expect from ChinaJoy 2011?

[Hot Blog] Atlantica Online Mercenary Review: Viking

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You get a Viking Summon Marble upon completing the Forest of Spirits quest chain. You tend to get here around level 12 or 13 and the Monk is not recruitable until level 18.

Dragon Nest: PvP Preview

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Dragon Nest Open Beta, running from July 26 through August 9, 2011, will be open to everyone. Everyone is welcome to begin their adventures in the incredible world of Dragon Nest, a fast-paced action mmo like nothing you have ever experienced!

Thunder-Wielding Warrior Orka Storms the Battlefields of LOCO

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With warhammer in hand, stout Vikhan warrior Orka is a traveller from the barren ice fields of Tukalis. Recently, he has been added to LOCO - Land of Chaos Online's ever-expanding roster to fulfill his destiny.

[Topic] Will You Try Your Best to Play IP Block Games?

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If some games have IP block in your region, will you try your best to play it normally? Such as finding some setting guides from the Internet and work giligently to make the game available?

[Hot Blog] Rusty Hearts is Ready for CBT

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You may now download your Rusty Hearts CBT Client. Pre-downloading the game will ensure that you are ready to play as soon as it opens up on July 27th without having to wait. We HIGHLY recommend a pre-download just in case our servers get slammed with other Rusty Heads like yourself.

World First: Paragon Defeats Heroic 25man Ragnaros

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After just a few weeks of Firelands raiding, DREAM Paragon has defeated Ragnaros on 25-man heroic mode, earning them the world first and the Firelord title. DREAM Paragon announced the news on their website, promising their kill shot and comments in the near future. Congratulations to Paragon for this world first.

A New Way to Share News about Friends in MMOSite

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We will open new Trends in continuous. For example: ChinaJoy 2011. If you have any word, come on! Leave your voice in this page.

Blade & Soul Private Server = Emulator, a Prearranged Show?

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As reported recently, Blade & Soul which conducted the CBT only once was found to have a private server. Some insiders pointed out that this private server was actually an emulator.

Anticipated MMOs at ChinaJoy 2011 (Part 2)

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ChinaJoy, the most authoritative game expo in China, is just around the corner. A bunch of new games will be showcased then. Yesterday, we had a post pointing out some MMORPGs that worth paying attention to. Today, we will continue with part 2 of the anticipated MMOs in this year's ChinaJoy.

Secret Lifelike Firefall Statue Unveiled Before ChinaJoy 2011

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In the busy moments of the final preparation stage, one of the most anticipated MMO FPS game of this year's ChinaJoy - Firefall's booth and secret $1 million USD worth of statues, which should have been banned taking pictures, was unveiled

RIFT PTS Patch 1.4 In-Progress Notes No.3

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New transplanar Synergy Crystals have been added to the Rift faction vendors in Sanctum and Meridian.

Rusty Hearts Preview Hands-on: Hack n Slash Combat Games Will Never Be the Same

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Rusty Hearts is a hack-slash dungeon crawler Mmorpg with Anime visuals and graphics, that is about to open its doors. This preview will contain many in-game system features review and some other information regarding the game basics.
Posted by Shri Krishna
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