MMOGaming News

MMOGaming News

Hellgate Global/Tokyo Combo Events for December

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Hellgate Global/Tokyo Combo Events for December


All it requires is dedication. I remembered playing Hellgate Global for almost 1 and a half day straight and achieved level 30+.

WoW 4.3: Quick Tips for Dragon Soul Raid Finder Bosses

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WoW 4.3: Quick Tips for Dragon Soul Raid Finder Bosses


You've no doubt already braved the Raid Finder, Blizzard's new system for getting players into raiding with a new lower difficulty on Dragon Soul. Players from all walks of WoW life will now be able to participate in the epic raid encounter to take down Deathwing once and for all.

Digimon Masters Christmas Update Introduces in UlforceVeedramon

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Digimon Masters Christmas Update Introduces in UlforceVeedramon


The latest content update will showcase a variety of exciting new features including the first appearance of UlforceVeedramon.

Nexon Risen to be the World's Third Biggest and Asia's Biggest Game Company

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Nexon Risen to be the World's Third Biggest and Asia's Biggest Game Company


17 years after its founding,Nexon, one the most representative game companies in South Korea, finally became a global game company. Market value totals at 553 billion yen making Nexon the biggest company listed in Japan this year and the third biggest game company in the world.

Star Wars: The Old Republic Early Game Access Begins Today

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Star Wars: The Old Republic Early Game Access Begins Today


The wait is over! Players who pre-ordered BioWare's acclaimed MMORPG Star Wars: The Old Republic are able to begin their journey today. As the press release said, players will access the game in waves, creating a rolling thunder of fans pre-loading and playing the game. The Early Game Access program will help manage server volumes, helping to ensure a smooth day-one experience.

AIKASEA EPIC II: Exodus Goes Live

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AIKASEA EPIC II: Exodus Goes Live


The first part of AIKASEA EPIC II, Leopold brings Elters to the frozen wasteland of Leopold.

MapleStory Legends - Mercedes Class Auditions

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MapleStory Legends - Mercedes Class Auditions


MapleStory is about to receive yet another character class this month as the dual bowgun-wielding, unicorn-riding Mercedes rounds out the second Legends update. Mercedes will be gracing Maple World with her fierce presence on December 19.

Star Wars: The Old Republic Theory Crafting - the Jedi Consular Guide

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Star Wars: The Old Republic Theory Crafting - the Jedi Consular Guide


In considering the versatility for the class it will be important to note that for tanking Alacrity is still just as important as it is for healing, yet you will be switching out willpower gear for Endurance. This is not a big concern as you will not be healing the party, yet like the priest/paladin tanks using your powers for aggro control and damage mitigation.

WildStar Class Interview - Meet the Granok

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WildStar Class Interview - Meet the Granok


As a soldier, the Sarge has a big burly body and very shocking faces with stone texture skin. Through the interview, we can find in this terrorist looks hide a very easygoing temper and children character.

Tribes: Ascend Closed Beta First Impressions!

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Tribes: Ascend Closed Beta First Impressions!


Whats up gamers im your host Zach Sharpes as always here for a awesome MMOFPS First Impressions video for Tribes Ascend.

Have Fun in Lucent Heart's Colourful Holiday Events!

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Have Fun in Lucent Heart's Colourful Holiday Events!


Gamania Digital Entertainment announces its Zodiac inspired social MMORPG, Lucent Heart, has begun its holiday festivities. Players are invited to join the Winter Festival, running through December 31st, for special quests, items, and events.

WoW 4.3 Items Reclassified: New Class Restrictions

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WoW 4.3 Items Reclassified: New Class Restrictions


Some items were recently reclassified. You may find yourself in possession of one of these items and are no longer able to use it. If this item replaced another and you need Game Master assistance to recover your old item, please place a petition with the new item name, that you can no longer use it - and the old item name you need restored.

Silkroad Online: Fellows System Has Just Gone Live!

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Silkroad Online: Fellows System Has Just Gone Live!


Joymax today revealed a rebuild, from the ground up, of its Fellows system for Silkroad Online which has just gone live. Fellows are all-new trained pets which have special enhanced abilities to help their masters conquer the Silk Roads.

Have a Look at Multiple Classes in Mirror War

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Have a Look at Multiple Classes in Mirror War


Mirror War: Reincarnation of Holiness is an upcoming RPG, In the game, players will be free to choose from the three factions and multiple classes.

Wisdom from the Elder - Clerics in Top Progression Guilds Talking about 1.6 Cleric Tanking

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Wisdom from the Elder - Clerics in Top Progression Guilds Talking about 1.6 Cleric Tanking


The idea of this interview series, like the previous one, was to give you an idea of tanking issues from the perspectives of clerics from the top progression guild. Keep in mind that these opinions are that of their own and do not represent the opinions of their guild.

C9 (CN) - Character Pre-Creation First Impression

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C9 (CN) - Character Pre-Creation First Impression


Today, Tencent open the game server and allow players to pre-create the characters, but only character creation function is available, others will be opened when OB starts.

ArcheAge: The Characteristics of Each Race

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ArcheAge: The Characteristics of Each Race


Many MMORPGs on the current market set races, and different races have different characteristics and stats. So it is with ArcheAge! Now, let's have a look at the respective features of ArcheAge's four unveiled races!

Three Creative Systems in Age of Wulin

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Three Creative Systems in Age of Wulin


In addition to Random Encounter system, Age of Wulin has another 3 innovations: non-level, non-class and never offline.

Mirror War 3rd CBT to Kick off, 2 New Trailers Released

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Mirror War 3rd CBT to Kick off, 2 New Trailers Released


Prior to the third CBT set to start in South Korea tomorrow on Dec. 14, Mirror War: Reincarnation of Holiness, an MMO shooter from Red Stone's developer L&K, has recently released two new promotional trailers introducing characters and game modes respectively.
Posted by Shri Krishna

MMORPG Videos

MMORPG Videos

MapleStory: Mercedes Arrives

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 05:06 AM PST

Nexon has announced that the latest Legend, Mercedes, has blasted her way into MapleStory. Mercedes is a dual-wielding dynamo who can perform both long- and short-range attacks. Enjoy! http://www.mmorpg.com

Nadirim: Update Launch Trailer

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 04:33 AM PST

Twisted Tribe has released a celebratory trailer showing off some of the brand new features that will be coming int Nadirim with the launch of the latest update. The new patch is expected to hit Nadirim on Tuesday, December 13th. Check it out! http://www.mmorpg.com http://www.nadirim.com
Posted by Shri Krishna

MMORPG Reviews

MMORPG Reviews

Operation Gamma 41 has announced a server merge

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 11:31 PM PST

Just A Game, has announced the merge of the current servers for their browser-based War Strategy MMORPG, Operation Gamma 41. Named Valkyrie after the secret WWII mission of the same name, the combined server will support a larger number of legions and alliances, as well as increase competition for hotly contested resources. Valkyrie also heralds [...]

Digimon Masters Online has started its “Joy to the World” holiday event

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 08:57 AM PST

Joymax, has started the “Joy to the World” holiday event for their MMORPG, Digimon Masters. This content update will showcase a variety of exciting new features including the first appearance of UlforceVeedramon in the Digital World, alongside a fun Christmas event running now until January 10th. The content update will also include the new Digimon [...]

Nadirim has released its official launch trailer

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 07:44 AM PST

Twisted Tribe has released the Official Launch Trailer video of Nadirim in advance of a major feature update. Follow characters through the breath-taking scenery, immersive story lines, hand-drawn graphics, character customization and epic battles against mythical creatures and bosses. The upcoming content update comes with: - Player trade - Boosts – short and long term [...]

Ragnarok Online has launched today the second major update in the “Season of Updates”

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 07:32 AM PST

Ragnarok Online has launched today the second major game update in the "Season of Updates"; the highly anticipated Skill Balance update. The massive Skill update not only rebalances nearly every high level skill in the game for better synergy between classes but also updates all the foes in the game to be a more even [...]

Maplestory is launching a new character class, Mercedes the next December 19

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 06:25 AM PST

MapleStory is about to receive another character class this month as the dual bowgun-wielding, unicorn-riding Mercedes rounds out the second Legends update. Mercedes will be gracing Maple World with her fierce presence on December 19.

Dark Orbit is celebrating its 5th anniversary

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 04:12 AM PST

Bigpoint is celebrating the 5th anniversary of the successful free-to-play, browser-based, space combat MMO, Dark Orbit. Since its launch in 2006, that game has amassed a community of over 65 million registered players and remains one of the best performing F2P titles of all time. Over the weekend, Dark Orbit invited players to celebrate its [...]

Drakensang Online has announced a new update, the NORLANDE expansion

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 03:20 AM PST

BigPoint has announced massive content updates to the hack and slash, 3D fantasy action MMORPG Drakensang Online. Since its open beta launch in August this year, Drakensang Online has already garnered nearly 2 million registered users. This new major content is coming just before Christmas: · The NORLANDE expansion update is bringing several new quests, [...]

The Lord of the Rings Online has announced the launch of its latest content update The Prince of Rohan

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 02:52 AM PST

Turbine has announced the launch of the latest major content update for The Lord of the Rings Online, Update 5: The Prince of Rohan . This update is the first major update to the game since the launch of the Rise of Isengard expansion pack, and this update brings five new Isengard instances to the [...]

MicroVolts is celebrating a christmas special update

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 12:54 AM PST

Rock Hippo Productions Ltd. has announced the launch the next December 16thof a holiday update for the cartoon style third-person shooter, MicroVolts. Santa’s sleigh will bring a sack full of holiday accessories, weapons and a slew of holiday events for players who’ve made the naughty OR nice list this year. The upcoming Holiday Special Update [...]

Guild Wars 2 has presented the last addition to its class roster, The Mesmer

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 12:13 AM PST

Guild Wars 2 has revealed its final profession, The Mesmer. The Mesmer is a spellcasting scholar profession that focuses on using illusions and mind control.
Posted by Shri Krishna


General Gaming Article

General Gaming Article

Google Makes Chrome Browser Logins Official

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 02:55 PM PST

chromeAfter months of trials and tweaking in the Chrome experimental and beta channels, Google has finally added multi-account logins to Chrome's official build. The feature is now called "Sign in to Chrome," but was previously being called Chrome Sync. Users will have the option to authorize any copy of Chrome they use to pull down bookmarks, web history, extensions, and more. 

The feature is nestled in Chrome's not too obvious settings menu under the wrench icon. The default setting is to sync everything, but users can exclude some data if need be. Any change made on one connected client will be replicated on the others instantly. This applies to the desktop program, ChromeBooks, and the Android 4.0 browser. Multiple profiles are also possible with the new update. 

Users can switch profiles on the fly to get to the individual user profiles. Google also offers to encrypt all the data that is stored in the cloud, but the default setting is only to encrypt passwords. Have you signed into Chrome?

10 Amazing Peripherals You Didn't Know You Needed

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 02:34 PM PST

You're a veteran tech geek. You build all your own systems. Your friends and family always look to you for advice when buying PC gear or gadgets. Yet there's still stuff you don't own, and don't realize you need. Now, it's true that many of you may have a couple of the items on this list. But there's likely gear here you don't have, and didn't realize you could use.

Note that I've defined "peripherals" a little more loosely. Some of these items don't connect to your PC, and might be called tools in other contexts. But since I use most of them daily in my work, I figured they were just as much peripherals as the keyboard I use to write. Let's dive in, shall we?

Note that this list is not in any particular order.

USB Hard Drive Dock

If you don't have one of these, you should get one. Better yet, get one of the newer, USB 3.0 dual clock versions. They make cloning hard drives vastly easier than opening up a case, finding a spare SATA cable and trying to make connections that don't disturb something else inside your PC.

You just slide your drive in so that the power and SATA connectors mate to the device and plug it in. You'll need to attach a small power brick, since desktop hard drives use more power than USB can deliver. Versions connecting via eSATA also exist, but I've found them to be more finicky than the USB versions.

Powered (not unpowered) USB Hub

The critical word here is "powered." A powered USB hub is more versatile than an unpowered hub, even if it does require attaching a small power brick to an outlet. If you have a powered USB hub, you can attach various USB-powered devices, and each will get its own trickle current. That's useful if you need to charge multiple phones and tablets, attach more than one USB powered hard drive and other similar devices. (Watch out, though—some powered hubs may only power a subset of the hubs.)

Monitor Calibration Puck

If you're into photography or video, you probably have one of these. Even if you're a casual photographer, you probably watch a fair amount of video on your PC. Unless you're a pixel-peeping pro, you don't need a high end version that's full of bells and whistles. A $70 Spyder Express Pro gets the job done, and is pretty simple to use.

Small LED Flashlight / Lantern

Most modern enthusiast PC cases sport interiors that are black-on-black. Some motherboards ship with black cables. Some internal peripherals are black. That makes working inside a PC an interesting exercise in squinting.

Modern, tiny LED flashlights are a godsend. The small one is a Fenix LD15, which takes a single AA battery and can pump out 105 lumens. The alien looking green gizmo is a Blackfire Clamplight, which can stand on its own (as shown here) or clamp to the side of a case, directing its light inward. It can also emit up to 100 lumens of exceptionally bright light. I find myself using the Fenix to hunt for small screws or other tiny items I drop on the floor or inside a case. The clamp light is useful in a variety of situations.

Smart (Green) Power Strip or UPS

My production system is attached to an APC750 ES Power-Saving smart uninterruptible power supply. The UPS can detect when I power down my PC, and automagically shut off peripherals attached to certain power plugs. Others can be "hot" all the time. So when I shut down my systems, my monitors and speakers also power down, while my powered USB hub remains on. The PC power connection is still "hot," so if you merely put the PC to sleep instead of powering down, your peripherals still turn off while the PC itself can still draw enough current to maintain a sleep state.

If you don't need a UPS, you can get simpler surge protectors that do the same thing, like the SmartStrip shown here. Like the APC UPS, certain plugs completely power down when you shut down or put your PC to sleep.

Kelly Forceps (Hemostat)

Ever find yourself needing to attach a jumper or something like a fan power connector to a motherboard, but your fat fingers can't quite squeeze into the available space? Enter the Kelly Forceps, aka a Hemostat. These are available and either medical supply stores or electronic stores. I think I got mine at a Radio Shack.

These are better than needle-nose screwdrivers for the job of attaching tiny plugs or fishing a screw out of a small crevice, because they can clamp shut. That means they can hold said tiny plug rigid while you're trying to insert them. I don't use this daily, but it's saved my bacon on multiple occasions. At the very least, it can minimize the need for serious PC disassembly if you just need to attach a power connector.

AA Battery Charger

I use Logitech cordless mice and keyboards, which use AA batteries for power. In particular, the G700 I use tends to eat batteries for lunch. If I used alkaline AA batteries, I'd quickly go broke and have to give up my monthly MMO fees. So I keep my mouse fed with rechargeable NiMH batteries using this device. (Yes, I can connect my G700 to the PC via a USB cable to charge it. But that sounds so…gauche somehow.)

Of course, those batteries also power my Nikon external flash units, various remote controls and those LED flashlights, so it's not like I'm keeping this around just to charge mouse batteries.

Adjustable Keyboard Tray

Whether you use a sitting or standing desk, an adjustable keyboard tray makes typing so much more bearable. I actually use slightly different heights depending on whether I'm typing or gaming. This Workrite model weighs about 20 pounds, but the spring-loaded mount makes adjustment easy. You can also slide it under the desk surface when you don't need it.

Smart Phone or Tablet

If you've got one PC that's your main go-to system, and it crashes, how do you figure out how to troubleshoot it? In my case, I fire up a search engine on a smart phone and start trolling for solutions on the web. I can do the same with my iPad, but that tends to live upstairs, while I always have my phone with me.

So while a smart phone can be your music player, let you play games while you're standing in a checkout line at the grocery store or read ebooks, it's one of the more useful troubleshooting tools. It can even be used as an ersatz flashlight in a pinch.

Power Screwdriver

What you see here is Milwaukee 6546 cordless screwdriver. It's my most used tool. In fact, I use it so much, I have two of them, as well as backup batteries. While it's only rated at 2.4v, the amount of torque this thing can produce is startling.

It also costs about $90. There are other, less expensive cordless screwdrivers out there, but the key thing you need for a cordless screwdriver to be useful for PC building and upgrading is an adjustable clutch.

Let me be clear: do not use a cordless screwdriver on PC gear unless it has an adjustable clutch. I keep the clutch set to the minimum setting most of the time, so I never strip screws—even those awful potmetal screws and mounts in most PC cases.

MegaUpload Takes Universal to Court Over YouTube Video

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 02:34 PM PST

muFile host Mega Upload is taking no prisoners in its war of words with Universal Music Group. The site produced a music video of sorts with various well-known musicians affirming their support for the service. Universal wasted no time in filing a DMCA takedown saying that MegaUpload didn't have the necessary rights to post the video. After a little back and forth, MegaUpload is taking things to court.

Universal claims that at least one of its artists did not authorize MegaUpload to use his or her likeness. This seems a little far-fetched because the video is not assembled from stock footage; people like will.i.am, Kanye West, and Ciara are actually interacting with the camera. Universal further asserts that other artists have come forward to it saying they did not give MegaUpload the rights to their images. MegaUpload says everything is on the up-and-up, and all the artists in the video consented.

The court case filed by MegaUpload seeks an injunction preventing Universal from filing additional DMCA claims on the video. It also seeks monetary damages. Do you think that Universal is "attempting to control what artists can and can't endorse," as MegaUpload claims?

Intel Dispels LightPeak Conspiracy with SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Certification for Series 7 Chipset

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 02:20 PM PST

You can argue the Earth is flat or that man never really landed on the moon, but if you really want to avoid looking foolish, then don't tell anyone Intel is deliberately stalling USB 3.0 long enough for LightPeak to drive a stake in the competing transfer interface. Actually, Intel has long held that the two aren't really competitors at all, and putting its money where its mouth is, Intel went out and received SuperSpeed USB 3.0 certification for its upcoming 7 Series and C216 chipset families.

"This is a tremendous milestone for the industry," said Jeff Ravencraft, USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) President & COO. "With USB-IF certification of Intel's integrated USB host silicon, host manufacturers will be able to bring SuperSpeed USB to the masses. Intel's commitment to SuperSpeed USB will continue to provide peripheral device manufacturers a compelling incentive to develop a growing number of diverse SuperSpeed USB products."

Intel's push to certify its upcoming chipsets with USB 3.0 will primarily benefit stingy OEMs too cheap to spring for a third-party SuperSpeed controller chip from NEC, Marvell, and others who have been supplying parts for entry-level, mid-range, and enthusiast grade boards in the absence of native USB 3.0 support from both Intel and AMD. The certification covers both consumer and workstation/server versions of Intel's Panther Point chipset for 2012 Ivy Bridge processors.

Roccat Studios Tips First U.S. Gaming Gear Ahead of CES

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 12:46 PM PST

German gaming peripheral designer Roccat Studios is gearing up to debut an "aggressive lineup" of keyboards, mice, and surround sound systems at CES in January, 2012. Ahead of the show, Roccatt today announced the U.S. launch of its gaming device line in hopes of filling a "void" in the crowded U.S. gaming peripherals market and expanding its reach outside of Europe and Asia.

"Pro gamers in other parts of the world already know what our gear can do," says René Korte, Roccat Founder and CEO. "Now's our chance to share that excitement with American gamers. We're bringing a bold innovation to the table that sets us far apart from other gaming companies."

Roccat will be going up against the likes of Razer, Logitech, and others who already have a strong presence in the U.S. Two of Roccat's first products to land stateside will be its flagship Isku Illuminated Gaming Keyboard and the Kone[+] Max Customization Gaming Mouse. These are standalone products but can also work together for to create and initiate advanced macros.

Image Credit: Roccat

Android App of the Week: Google Maps 6

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 11:44 AM PST

Most of you Android junkies out there have probably been using Google Maps on your phone since day one. A big reason Android is such a powerful platform, Google Maps offers GPS enabled Maps, location-based search, and even turn-by-turn navigation. With version 6.0 being recently released, Google brings something new to the table with maps of indoor spaces.

 

Have you ever been in a large mall or airport, and wondered what shops or restaurants were right around the next corner or on the other side of the facility? Google Maps now displays floor plans of buildings which have been uploaded to Google (building managers can upload their floor plans to Google through the use of an automated tool).

To use the new features, simply zoom in to the point where you're given the ability to view the interior map. If you don't have any supported buildings close by, you could try out the functionality by searching for Chicago's O'hare Airport (pictured above). Google even provides the ability to switch floors based on your current GPS location or manually using the controls on the right-hand side.

Internal floor plans for are available in the Google Maps 6 app, available free from the Android Market.

Sapphire Shows Love to AMD with Pure Black 990FX Motherboard

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 11:41 AM PST

Intel's Sandy Bridge-E is the talk of the town right now, but let's not forget about another little chip maker named Advanced Micro Devices (AMD). Sapphire certainly hasn't forgotten about AMD, nor has it blanked out on how to build a high end motherboard. Proving both is Sapphire's new Pure Black 990FX board with support for the latest AMD processors.

The Pure Black 990FX is a full size ATX motherboard with four dual-channel DDR3 memory slots (supports up to 32GB of RAM), four USB 3.0 ports, dual GbE LAN sockets, Bluetooth, eight SATA 3Gbps ports with AHCI and RAID support, rear-panel eSATA (SATA 3Gbps), six PCI Express Gen2 slots with CrossFireX support, and other specs you would expect to find a current board.

Sapphire pimps the Pure Black 990FX's build quality as another high point. It has a black multilayer PCB, high quality gold plated connectors for USB 3.0 and LAN, solid capacitors, and multi-phase PWM voltage regulation circuitry for both the CPU and memory modules with Sapphire Diamond Black chokes.

The Pure Black 990FX is in production now and will be available in the retail channel soon.

Product Page

Image Credit: Sapphire

IP Addresses From Sony, Fox And Universal Found Torrenting Music, Movies And More

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 11:27 AM PST

This just in from the "Isn't it ironic?" department: IP addresses from some of the top content creation companies, including Fox, Sony and Universal, have been caught red-handed downloading torrents of movies, music and TV shows. That's the claim from TorrentFreak, at least, who sifted through data from YouHaveDownloaded, a Russian site that logs – and exposes! – IP addresses downloading many of the public torrents you can find out there. TorrentFreak did some digging and managed to match several infringing IP addresses to IP addresses registered to the aforementioned companies.

A Sony IP address from Culver City, CA and an NBC Universal IP address from Fort Lauderdale, FL went on especially naughty sprees, downloading several different torrents apiece, including a Halloween trance album, a Black Keys track, the complete first season of "The Game of Thrones," the "Cowboys and Aliens" movie and more. An IP address registered to Fox was also found downloading "Super 8."

An IP address from Google's NY office also downloaded a ton of stuff, although interestingly enough, TorrentFreak notes that they couldn't find any torrents being downloaded from BitTorrent Inc's SF headquarters. Then again, YouHaveDownloaded only claims to track around a fifth of all available public torrents. (By the way, YouHave Downloaded's owners say they're exposing the IP addresses of anyone who downloads from the torrents they're tracking in order to dispel the notion that you should expect privacy on the 'Net.)

TorrentFreak also notes that an IP address from a Dutch music royalty collecting agency called Buma/Stemra was found downloading Battlefield 3 and episodes of "Entourage," which prompted the company to claim that its address was spoofed. TorrentFreak invites the US companies mentioned above to do the same thing. "After all, if it's so easy to spoof an IP-address, then accused file-sharers can use this same defense against copyright holders."

Thoughts?

Image credits: torrentfreak.com

Fortinet Answers Your Burning Carrier IQ Questions in a Handy FAQ

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 11:14 AM PST

The recently discovered Carrier IQ controversy is a little unsettling, to say the least. In short, Carrier IQ is a monitoring program that tracks things like GPS location, app usage details, and HTTP requests, and worst of all, this peeping tom program comes pre-loaded on many Android handsets (there's a way you can check for it if you own a rooted phone). Want to know more?

If so, Fortinet has what you're looking for. If Fortinet sounds familiar, you're either a network security appliances geek, or you came across the company's top eight security predictions for 2012 (we covered them here). Now Fortinet has put together a 'Carrier IQ on Android -- FAQ' piece that covers everything from the basics of what this software does to how exactly it works, and even how to get rid of it (not for the non-adventurous, as it requires rooting your Android device).

You can check out the FAQ here.

Fast Forward: ARM Embraces 64 Bits

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 11:03 AM PST

It was the best-known secret of the year: ARM was prepping its first 64-bit CPU architecture to bash head-on with Intel in the low-power server market. ARM's official announcement finally came in October, and AppliedMicro revealed bold plans for the first 64-bit processor based on the new architecture.

With Microsoft readying its first ARM-compatible version of desktop/server Windows, PCs may flirt with ARM, too, although notebooks are more likely candidates than desktops. It's the first serious challenge from a non-x86 architecture that Intel has faced in 20 years.

These days, the desperate quest for power efficiency is driving the industry in new directions. Not all those roads lead to Intel. ARM's existing 32-bit CPU architecture rules the cell phone market and is popular in numerous other devices, such as Apple's iPad. Although ARM-based processors can't yet match the performance of Intel's best chips, they are powerful enough for many purposes and are more power efficient.

System vendors want to try building large servers using boatloads of low-power ARM chips, but the critical missing piece was a 64-bit ARM architecture. Every other server-processor architecture (x86, Itanium, POWER, SPARC) has been 64-bit for years.

Unlike Intel, however, ARM doesn't actually make microprocessors, it licenses its architecture and CPU cores to other companies, which design the chips and outsource manufacturing to independent foundries. Hence the importance of AppliedMicro's announcement: a future 32-core server processor called X-Gene. Someone has to go first.

Intel retains awesome advantages in CPU performance, fabrication technology, engineering resources, and market position. Frankly, I give ARM only a 50/50 chance of succeeding outside its traditional mobile scope. But the battle will be good drama, and the fresh competition will push Intel to design lower-power x86 processors, so almost any outcome is a win for the rest of us.
Posted by Shri Krishna

MMO News

MMO News

Silkroad Online relaunches Fellows system

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 02:02 PM PST

Today, Silkroad Online releases a new version of the game’s Fellows system.

Fellows are trained pets which grant the player bonuses as they adventurer. They can use attack combinations, serve as mounts, and can use their skills automatically. Each has three settings for battle – aggressive, defensive, and buff. Fellows can also gain additional abilities or skills through the store.

Players will also be able to access the Magic Lamp, starting December 20. This limited promotion lets players enter the Item Room, polish the lamp clean with Magic Cleaner, and ask a genie to grant them wishes. The launch of this service will reward players with a 12th grade equipment item.

Silkroad Online is published by Joymax, which also publishes Karma Online and Digimon Masters Online.

silkroad_online_rubino-phoenix_01

Silkroad Online Gameplay Screenshot

Source:

SILKROAD ONLINE – FOR IT’S A JOLLY GOOD FELLOW, WHICH NOBODY CAN DENY

NEW UPDATE FEATURING FELLOWS SYSTEM ARRIVES TODAY, HOLIDAY EVENTS BEGIN TODAY AND RUN THROUGH DECEMBER 20

December 13th, 2011 – Joymax, a developer and publisher of interactive entertainment for the global market, today revealed a rebuild, from the ground up, of its Fellows system for Silkroad Online which has just gone live. Fellows are all-new trained pets which have special enhanced abilities to help their masters conquer the Silk Roads. Joymax will be holding holiday events to usher in the New Year and commemorate the launch of its Fellows system and Magic Lamp service. Players who want to try out the new Fellows system or participate in the Magic Lamp service, where players have the chance to obtain rare and new-release items, should visit Silkroad Online’s official site at http://www.joymax.com/silkroad/ to register for a Joymax account and jump straight into the action!

“The new Fellows system is a result of the continued efforts by Joymax to add exciting new content to Silkroad Online based on increasing demand from our loyal players,” said Joymax CEO, Nam-chul Kim. “With the implementation of this new gameplay mechanic, players will be able to determine and execute more tactical decisions as they continue their quests in the game.”

Fellows work alongside players and are a vital asset when going into battle. Not only can they utilize powerful attack combinations, which later on will become indispensable in battle, but allow players to move quickly throughout the game while sitting comfortably on their backs. Fellows are also very intelligent, they have the ability to judge individual situations by themselves to determine and trigger corresponding skills automatically. There are three types of tactical settings in the Fellows system – aggressive, defensive and buff. Players can choose a Fellow type based on their preference. It is also possible for Fellows to acquire additional abilities or special skills like Spirit Points by visiting the store.

Beginning December 20th, 2011, players will be able to access the Magic Lamp service for a limited time.  Enter the Item Room and make a wish by polishing the fantastic lamp clean with the Magic Cleaner.  A genie will appear and grant players their special wishes; to celebrate the launch of this rare service, players will receive a coveted 12th grade equipment item to wish upon.

FreeStyle Street Basketball offers winter bonuses

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 01:45 PM PST

FreeStyle Street Basketball is offering a bundle of bonuses for its players this holiday.

Every weekend, players will earn triple experience and points after each match, and players will also get a special stocking full of holiday clothing, experience-boosting tattoos, and points. New items will also be available in the Shop, and players who spend GKash will also get 10 points for every GKash spent.

FreeStyle Street Basketball is published by GameKiss, which also publishes GhostX.

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FreeStyle Street Basketball Gameplay Screenshot

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December is a month to remember on GameKiss

December 14, 2011 – GameKiss.com will have a flurry of activity this winter to keep our FreeStyle Street Basketball players out of the cold.

DJ Bagman, our in-game mix master, will be treating gamers to 10 points for each GKash game currency spent. This is a great way to earn even more to spend in the Item and Skill shops. Plus each weekend players will earn triple the experience and points after each match. Now it's even easier to reach new levels!

For the winter school vacation, we will be giving our dedicated players a special gift stocking chock full of cool items like holiday clothing sets, tattoos for extra experience, and points. We will also be offering several cool new items in the Item Shop.

GM Roberto has this to say, "We know this is a special time of year for most of our gamers, so GameKiss is bringing it! Just this week alone we will have several events and updates for the winter season. We will even have a special basketball court with new music just for the occasion. This is going to be a month to remember."

Ragnarok Online releases Skill Balance update

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 01:36 PM PST

The second in a series of winter updates, Ragnarok is releasing its Skill Balance update today.

The update makes an effort to rebalance almost every high-level skill in the game, improving synergy between classes and making enemies more challenging to defeat. The Kafra shop is also moving to a special button in the user interface, making it always accessible for players.

Special Event Guild Wars will be scheduled throughout December, and for two weeks, new players will get special boosts to help them make their way to level 70.

Ragnarok Online is published by Gravity Interactive, which also publishes ROSE Online and Requiem.

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Ragnarok Online Gameplay Screenshot

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RAGNAROK ONLINE WILL BE RELEASING SKILL BALANCE UPDATE AND MASSIVE EXPANSION EPISODE UPDATE 14.1 BIFROST.

Rune Midgard Breathlessly awaits the gods' decree for balance in the world.

MARINA DEL REY, Calif. (December 13th, 2011) –This week, Ragnarok Online launches the second major game update in the "Season of Updates"; the highly anticipated Skill Balance update.  The massive Skill update not only rebalances nearly every high level skill in the game for better synergy between classes but also updates all the foes in the game to be a more even challenge for their reward.

As an extra bonus in this update, the Kafra shop is moving to an always accessible button in-game.  This will insure that adventurer's on the go are never caught unprepared!

Skill Balance update is set to take launch Today, December 13th, after which Special Event WoEs (Guild Wars) will be scheduled through December to offer quirky and fun challenges for all; and a 2 week event for new players to ease their way to level 70 through December 27th!

This is the perfect time to start your Ragnarok Adventure as well as the perfect time to return for the Holidays!   The next update in the Season of updates is the massive Expansion episode update 14.1 Bifrost. As always these updates and playing is Free to all of the loyal players!

Update 7 brings winter to DC Universe Online

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 01:22 PM PST

DC Universe Online has launched its seventh major game update: Season’s Greedings.

This update’s story focuses on Larfleeze, leader of the Orange Lanterns, who has hidden stolen holiday gifts throughout both Gotham City and Metropolis. Green Lantern Hal Jordan and Sinestro are seeking player’s aid to recover these items and return the world to order.

As part of the update, players can earn a special Feat for spotting Larfleeze once a day for twelve days in a row, or purchase holiday themed appearances and gear from vendors or the Marketplace. The update also introduces a new 5v5 deathmatch arena inside the Watchtower.

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

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DC Universe Online Gameplay Screenshot

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The Holiday Spirit Hits DC UniverseTM Online in Latest Game Update: Season's Greedings
Larfleeze is on the Naughty List This Winter in DCUO's Game Update 7

WHAT: The season of giving has gone awry in DC Universe Online's (DCUO) latest game update: Season's Greedings. Larfleeze, greedy, devious leader of the Orange Lanterns, is lashing out at Santa Claus for leaving him empty-handed this year. To retaliate, Larfleeze has hidden stolen holiday items throughout Gotham City and Metropolis until he can ship them back home to the forbidden territory of the Vega System.

Heroes and villains alike will take part in quests to find the stolen presents. Heroes will receive direction from Green Lantern Hal Jordan in the Watchtower, while villains will hear a similar request from the wielder of yellow light, Sinestro in the Hall of Doom. In order to locate the presents, players must search for, and defeat, Larfleeze's carefully crafted orange construct enemies, created to resemble those he has defeated in the past as a warning sign to any who cross him in the future.

Game Update 7: Season's Greedings Features:

  • Larfleeze Sightings: Players can receive a Feat if they can spot Larfleeze lurking about Metropolis or Gotham City once a day for, of course, 12 days in a row.
  • Watchtower PVP Map: Players can battle it out in a new 5v5 death-match arena located in the Watchtower.
  • New Holiday Marketplace Items:
    • Festive Winter Hat – Do you have a jolly side? Have you been wanting to show off your festive spirit? Does your head get cold in that brisk winter air? If so, then this Festive Winter Hat is for you!
    • Reindeer Antlers - Oh, deer! Declare your appreciation for these beloved holiday animals by wearing your very own set of Reindeer Antlers.
  • New Holiday Vendor Items:
    • Holiday weapon appearances to give your weapon a sweet new look
    • New Holiday Elf outfit set
    • Snowman form trinket
    • Holiday snowglobe grenade

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

Joy to the World – in Digimon Masters Online

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 01:10 PM PST

Digimon Masters Online has released its special holiday event for 2011: “Joy to the World.”

The event update includes a special Christmas event that runs from December 13 until January 10, decorating maps in the holiday spirit and adding special holiday fun for players. The update also introduces two new Mercenary Eggs – WarGreymon and UlforceVeedramon, the latter of which is a Digimon Masters game exclusive. Also introduced is the Digimon Reinforcement System, letting players boost their Digimon’s defensive abilities with a protective shield that changes color based on its strength.

Digimon Masters Online is published by Joymax, which also publishes Silkroad Online and Karma Online.

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Digimon Masters Online Gameplay Screenshot

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THE REAL AND THE DIGITAL WORLD COLLIDE ONCE AGAIN IN JOYMAX’S “JOY TO THE WORLD“ UPDATE WITH CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY EVENTS

Exclusive Digimon & Digimon Reinforcement System Add To The Festive Cheer

December 13, 2011— Joymax, leading online game developer and publisher, today announced the “Joy to the World” holiday event for their popular MMORPG, Digimon Masters is now live.  The latest content update will showcase a variety of exciting new features including the first appearance of UlforceVeedramon in the Digital World, alongside a fun Christmas event running now until January 10th.  Players can experience all the action for themselves by downloading and playing the game for free on the Joymax portal at http://www.joymax.com/portal.

Based on the wildly successful Digimon anime series, Digimon Masters takes players on a raucous ride as they complete quests while acquiring new Mercenary Eggs and leveling up both their character and Partner Digimon as well as acquire new Digimon by hatching a variety of eggs.  The update brings in two additional Mercenary Eggs, which must be hatched using data found throughout the Digital World.  WarGreymon stomps onto the scene and is joined by UlforceVeedramon, who will make its first ever worldwide appearance and will be exclusive to the global Digimon Masters game – this is the only place to capture this elusive and highly desirable companion!

The content update will also include the new Digimon Reinforcement System (DRS), which players can use to increase their Digimon’s defensive abilities. The DRS produces an awesome looking glowing protective shield around each Digimon that changes color based on shield strength.  In addition, to get players into the holiday spirit, aChristmas Event will start today, and run through January 10th, with maps being decorated in a festive Christmas motif!

A game for all players and all ages, Digimon Masters provides a simple interface coupled with an intuitive control scheme that is completely hassle-free.  With more than 1,000 characters featured from seasons 1 through 5 of the Digimon anime, not only is it faithful to the series’ art design, Digimon Masters closely follows a story that will satisfy both loyal fans of the series as well as welcoming new gamers to the Digital World.  Digimon Masters’ faithful recreation of the Digimon universe, as featured in the anime series Digimon Data Squad, is now being brought to the global market by Joymax.

Lucent Heart releases Winter Festival

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 12:42 PM PST

The Winter Festival has begun for players of Lucent Heart. The special winter event will run until December 31.

Players can find special Holiday Quests, helping either Jolly Father Winter or Naughty Ice Miser, for a chance to earn red or black colored Winter Holiday sets. The Step-Up Dance Competition has also returned, challenging players to make holiday-themed dance videos for a chance at permanent outfits, Zodiac Pets, and the Black Wrath Battle Mount. Players can also visit the game’s Facebook page and answer daily questions; a total of 496 fans will be rewarded over 31 days with special prizes.

Lucent Heart is published by Gamania (beanfun).

Lucent Heart: Winter Festival Video

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LUCENT HEART'S HOLIDAY EVENTS BEGIN

Naughty or Nice, All Players Get Presents This Year

December 13, 2011

IRVINE, Calif. – December 13, 2011 – Gamania Digital Entertainment announces its Zodiac inspired social MMORPG, Lucent Heart, has begun its holiday festivities. Players are invited to join the Winter Festival, running through December 31st, for special quests, items, and events.

Trailer: http://youtu.be/M6Cj9_sRiNk

Holiday Quests – In Acadia even the naughty get presents. Players can choose to help out Jolly Father Winter or Naughty Ice Miser for stockings filled with goodies. Exclusive red or black Winter Holiday Sets are waiting to be found.

Step-Up: Holiday Edition – Lucent Heart's popular Step-Up Dance Competition is back. Participants will be creating fresh dance videos from their favorite holiday themed music – competing for amazing prizes. Permanent outfits, Zodiac Pets, and even the rare Black Wrath Battle Mount are all up for grabs.

31 Days of Giving – Gamania is running its largest giveaway yet over at the official Lucent Heart Facebook page. Those who take a shot at the "daily question" have a chance to win unique costume sets and Goodie Bags. Each day more winners will be chosen, with a total of 496 fans receiving prizes.

All of these Winter Festival activities and more can be found at Lucent Heart's official homepage: http://www.lucentheart.com/event/WinterFestival2011/default.aspx

Lineage 2 F2P Gameplay – First Look HD

Posted: 13 Dec 2011 07:34 AM PST

To Learn More About the Game Check out our Lineage 2 Page.

Lineage 2 is a 3D PvP heavy fantasy MMORPG published by NCSoft – the same company behind Aion and City of Heroes. The game originally launched in South Korea back in 2003 and in the U.S. in 2004 as a pay to play game. It later officially went “truly free” to play on November 30, 2011 with the launch of the “Goddess of Destruction” update. Since launch the game has enjoyed well over a dozen major content updates and since going free to play the game’s playerbase has exploded in numbers. The game’s visuals are a bit outdated, but the game still offers plenty to do – especially since it has over 36 playable classes and a unique sub classing system which lets players branch off into three additional “sub classes”. To learn more about Lineage 2 check out the official MMOHut Lineage 2 page which includes a detailed review, tons of screenshots, and additional videos.
Posted by Shri Krishna
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