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Kick it into overdrive: ARGO Online's open beta starts today
Forget the Starship Enterprise -- the 23rd century apparently has more interesting tales to tell with a wild blend of steampunk and fantasy. If the world of ARGO Online has intrigued you, then you'll be a-jitter with excitement to know that burda:ic's latest title is going into open beta today. The team's also posted a new interview with SongQwo, the head of ARGO Online's development. How does he feel about how it turned out? "I am very proud of the game. I'm actually quite popular -- for my kids and their friends and schoolmates I'm sort of a celebrity... And after the last steps of optimization, we think that ARGO became a quite nice game." ARGO Online's been proceeding on course through a series of closed beta tests over the past few months, so the announcement of open beta is a good indication that the game is nearing launch. You can check it out for yourself by signing up at the official site.
ARGO Online kicks off third closed beta phase
Yesterday marked the successful completion of ARGO Online's second closed beta phase. Today, the sci-fi, steampunk, and fantasy-flavored free-to-play MMO kicks off phase three, which is slated to run through March 30th. If you've participated in any of the earlier phases, you're already registered and will be able to access the new beta using your pre-existing account credentials. Phase three adds a guild system and an auction house to ARGO's post-apocalyptic world, and players will be able to continue testing all of the previously implemented systems. burda:ic has also released a few statistics from phase two of the beta, including the most popular Noblian class (the Explorer), the most popular Floresslah class (the Druid), and the distribution of Noblian vs. Floresslah players (51 percent to 49 percent). Check out the official ARGO Online website for more information or to sign up for beta.
MV Guide: March 14th - 21st
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively's Livestream channel. Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of games to take a look at. During Livestream events, you can participate in the live chat to learn about the game, ask questions, and spend some time with Massively staff and readers.
Get your ARGO closed beta key from Massively!
Last week at GDC we had the opportunity to take an up-close look at ARGO Online, the upcoming post-apocalyptic free-to-play game from burda:ic. We'd love for you, our readers, to have that same opportunity, and since the closed beta begins today, the timing couldn't be better! We've got 2,000 beta keys to share -- simply visit our giveaway page to claim your key! Once you've got your key, create an account if you haven't done so, enter your beta key on the registration page, and download the client. Once you've downloaded and installed the game, you're all set to enter the world of ARGO -- have fun!
GDC 2011: ARGO Online pits nature against technology
If imaginative fiction has taught us anything, it's that the fun doesn't really begin until the world ends. Post-apocalyptic games are all the rage these days, from Earthrise to Fallen Earth, so it's not surprising to see another company throw its hat into the ring. Burda:ic may not be a household name, but it's hoping that its upcoming MMO, ARGO Online, will be. Achim Kaspers, the managing director at burda:ic, was overflowing with information about ARGO's unique look and business model. ARGO is planned to be a free-to-play title, although Kaspers is well aware of the stigma that typically goes along with that. He admits that many F2P games are lacking in content or are grind-heavy, fates he hopes ARGO will avoid with thousands of quests, fluid combat animation and plenty of places to explore. Billed as a "post-apocalyptic steampunk MMO," ARGO features a futuristic Earth divided between nature and technology. The Noblians are all over cool-looking steampunk devices and vehicles, while the Floresslah have united with nature to become its champions. We've been following ARGO since last year, so we're excited to hear that the title is scheduled to start its open beta tomorrow. Hit the jump for more of the good word on ARGO from GDC as well as a special treat for Massively readers! %Gallery-118525%
MV Guide: March 7 - 14, 2011
MV Guide is a weekly rundown of the MMO gaming events planned on Massively's Livestream channel. Every week, the Massively staff logs in to play various MMOs live and in person, and we'd love for you to drop by the channel and visit. We have a combination of regular weekly games and new surprises, so you'll find a variety of games to take a look at. During Livestream events, you can participate in the live chat to learn about the game, ask questions, and spend some time with Massively staff and readers. MV Guide this week should have someone for everyone! We've got a heavy schedule and a wide variety of games and times, so follow along after the jump and see what's on MV TV this week!
ARGO Online reveals faction info
ARGO Online's marketing has been picking up a head of steam in recent days (yes, we went there). With a new website and the announcement of closed beta signups, the free-to-play steampunk title is setting its sights on desktops everywhere. Today, developer burda:ic brings us new faction-related information in the form of a press release detailing the eco-friendly warriors known as Floresslah. The Floresslah dedicate themselves to protecting humankind from the supposed evils of technology, which would seem to be a curious path to choose in a steampunk-flavored game. Nevertheless, the Floresslah are formidable opponents, with an army that features Elementarists, Warlocks, Rogues, Shamans, Druids, and several other classes that harness the natural magic of the world. Check out class details on the official website, as well as a Floresslah trailer after the jump. Don't forget to sign up for beta while you're at it.
ARGO Online opens up closed beta signups
Looking for something interesting to play on your older might-as-well-be-steam-powered computer? How about a free-to-play MMO? What if I said it was a hybrid steampunk post-apocalyptic sci-fi fantasy free-to-play MMO? If that sounds interesting then grab your keyboard, as the closed beta for ARGO Online is gearing up and burda:ic is looking for all manner of testers. ARGO Online is a world torn by two factions -- the nature-loving Floresslah and the technology-based Noblians -- struggling to gain supremacy of what's left after dropping enormous bombs on each other. Among many of the things players can look forward to in the upcoming beta are classes like Bomber and Chaser, PvP challenges that will offer wide-ranging battles between hundreds of players at a time, a pet system, tradeskills, and more. The system requirements are also fairly low, which opens up the potential for more people to play. If you'd like more information or you want to sign up and lend a hand with testing, head over to the ARGO Online website and check it out.
Steampunk MMO ARGO Online launches teaser site
Steampunk MMORPGs are few and far between. In fact, aside from Gatheryn, we were hard-pressed to think of any. Until today. burda:ic GmbH, a German free-to-play publisher responsible for Avalon Heroes and Florensia, has issued a press release announcing the development of ARGO Online, a futuristic steampunk title featuring a variety of quests, PvP modes, professions, and a pet system. A new website has also been unveiled, and it boasts a teaser trailer for the Noblian (one of ARGO's factions). Further details are somewhat sketchy at this point, but the game is slated for a Spring 2011 release, and we'll of course keep you posted on any and all developments.
ARGO Online clanking towards the West
When it comes to interesting combinations, how does the idea of a steampunk, sci-fi, fantasy, free-to-play title grab you? Interest piqued? Well, when we heard that ARGO Online will offer a combination of these varied things, our ears definitely perked up. Even better, burda:ic and MGame are partnering up to bring this diverse-mix MMO to the West in early 2011. Set in a dark future, ARGO Online will drop players into a mishmashed world where these divergent themes will come together as the technologically advanced Noblians and nature-inspired Floresslah battle for supremacy. The game will feature eight different classes, traditional PvE questing, different PvP scenarios with a ranking system, achievements, and more. If you're curious for a look at this upcoming title, then be sure to check out the trailer behind the break. In the meantime, we'll be over here shining up our goggles and getting ready for some high-flying MMO fun on a blimp.
22Moo intros 11+ new video eyewear products
While you risk onlookers pointing, staring, and occasionally tying your shoelaces together, wearing video glasses gives squinty eyes a rest and can really make the most of those small-screened devices. 22Moo has just released a slew of virtual viewers including the VG240, VG910, VG920, VG920D, PlayMate MMC, Argo, Argo+, Argo+Cinema, VG100K, and VG-350, simulating screens from 35-inches to a whopping 80-inches with the VGA VG920s, which can connect directly to the iPod Video and Zune. The Argo+ design is optimized for Wii gameplay while the VG-100Ks double as sunglasses -- an ideal choice if you're trying to avoid the Geordi La Forge look. These newbies look nearly identical to the last round, but at least the prices, at around $275, haven't shifted much either.
Zune hits retailers today!
Microsoft's little mp3 player that could the Argo ... I mean Zune has hit retailers today! Yes, I know this is a blog about Xbox 360 and not mp3 players, point taken. But, have you forgotten the rumors that the 360 and Zune would play nice and possibly be able to show off some gamercard goodness? And of course Microsoft makes the Xbox 360 and Zune, both headed up by our buddy J Allard. Hmm, I think this whole post was about me trying to justify why there should be Zune news on this blog. Go buy your Zune today! (Zune news will be sparse from here on. I plomise.)
Zune revealed by FCC as "Toshiba 1089"
Well, here's a bit of a surprise: a wireless PMP just showed up on the FCC, featuring a 30GB HDD, FM tuner and a strangely familiar 3-inch screen. And it ain't being manufactured by Microsoft. Instead it looks like Microsoft got their good pal Toshiba to produce the Zune, which not only saves Microsoft the job of gearing up some production lines for the thing, but seems to keep them from stepping on at least one PlayForSure licensee's toes. Things get more interesting from there, since the documentation refers to those other heavily bandied code names: "Pyxis" and "Argo." From the looks of things, Pyxis seems to be the name for the network which Zune devices will use to share content, since in the "DJing Content" section it states that "Pyxis allows you to stream music to up to 4 other Pyxis devices." A bit more confusing, however, is that "You can invite other Argo members that you meet to be your friends wirelessly." Of course, it's always likely that they hadn't gotten all the codenames smoothed out by the time they wrote that up, but it's clear that the Zune player as we know it is only a small part of the overall "Zune" plan. It's also clear that Toshiba is part of the party, so we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for any other manufacturers who might be hanging on to Microsoft's coat tails here. Keep reading to see the Zune cracked open, tested, and completely dissected...[Via MobileWhack; thanks Sandeep]
Zune: what we know, think we know, and don't yet know
Ok, so we got off the horn with Microsoft just a few minutes ago and realized that making heads or tails of all this Zune stuff is probably driving some of you crazy . (We know others are probably just getting driven crazy by all the posts we've been writing about it. Sorry, it's our job!) So here's what we know for sure, think we know according to inside sources (i.e. yet unconfirmed information), and what we don't yet know at all about the Zune.What we know (for sure) Zune is the name of the project, the brand, and the device. The first Zune device will be launched this year, with more devices to come in 2007. The Zune brand encompasses not only the device, but the software that will drive it, as well as a music, movie, and media service the Zune device family will use for acquiring, sharing, and discovery of said media. Music will be the first angle of service that is launched, "connected entertainment" being the ultimate goal. The Zune media service will heavily leverage community aspects and recommendation; emphasis is being placed on using Zune to discover new artists, media, etc. The Zune media device will be drive-based, and have WiFi. The Zune brand is intended to be an entirely vertically integrated end-to-end solution, not unlike the iPod / iTunes / iTunes Music Store triumvirate. The service and device will not be PlaysForSure compliant, meaning you will not be able to use your Zune player with Napster or Vongo, for example. This will be an entirely new system. Microsoft will continue to support and develop for their PlaysForSure initiative, but all things PlaysForSure are handled by two entirely separate division that will not have any crossover. Zune is under Microsoft's new Entertainment & Devices Division, and is headed by, among others, Robbie Bach, J Allard (Corporate Vice President and Chief XNA Architect), and Bryan Lee (Corporate Vice President and CFO, Entertainment and Devices Division), which accounts for the division of this project from the rest of Microsoft, similar to how the Xbox project was also strictly separated. The logo we had is, of course, real. Microsoft's launched the Zune viral marketing site, ComingZune.com. [Thanks, bv] What we think we know (and are pretty sure of) They'll be showing off the device by the end of next month, and will aim for a November release. Microsoft will buy your way out of iTunes in order to convert you to a Zune user. The Zune will come in multiple colors. Pyxis is the codename for their nano competitor which would also include video capabilities; Alexandria is the codename for the software that powers the Zune experience. A Microsoft portable gaming system is in the works, and will be a part of the Zune family. This device should have Xbox Live Anywhere integration. This may or may not be an Xbox co-branded portable, but is probably going to be the portable gaming / media device we've been hearing about for years. Microsoft's ad campaign will include a Super Bowl commercial. The Zune will have a bevy of accessories at launch; it'll probably be cheaper for accessory makers to develop for the Zune port than pay the Made For iPod tax. What we don't yet know Whether the Zune media service will offer the same kind of all-you-can-eat subscription media services as PlaysForSure media services like Napster and Vongo. Supposedly subscription will be offered, but downplayed in favor of song purchase (which is the opposite of most PlaysForSure services). Whether you'll actually only be limited to sharing with up to 10 people nearby, as rumored, and that they won't get the protected files, but will "bookmark" them for later purchase. Exact device specifications for the first Zune device, as well as its price (though we hear it could be as much as $399). Whether it'll include XM and/or Sirius service as rumored (we doubt it). Let the analysis begin!
Microsoft's Argo, Pyxis, Zune and Alexandria -- confused yet?
It's raining Zune rumors again, or more properly, "Project Argo" rumors, and far be it from us to keep these to ourselves. The latest word comes from BetaNews and their "sources close to the situation," and things just keep looking better coming from the Redmond camp. They're claiming that Microsoft will start showing off the device to the public in the last week of August, followed by more presentations mid-September, and an October release. The August announcement would come a few weeks after Apple is rumored to release new iPod nanos at WWDC, but would come a fair bit before the flagship iPod refresh is expected, giving Microsoft a great shot at the "you have to buy a new iPod at least once a year" crowd pining for a fix. BetaNews also has some more code names from Project Argo for us to kick around: Pyxis and Alexandria. The former is a rumored iPod nano competitor, with similar size and functions, but the addition of video support. The latter we've heard of before, back when Origami rumors were in their prime, and appears to be the music/video service that will complete Microsoft's utopian ideal of end-to-end content and device provider -- and which is sure to piss off a few PlaysForSure music services in the process.
But wait, there's more... Zune deets
For a product that Microsoft hasn't even officially confirmed, there sure is a whole lot of Zune info to be getting on with. The latest leaks are from Digital Music News, who has been reviewing some of the presentation material that Microsoft shared with top-level execs of partner companies. The biggest detail that they've unveiled is that the Zune will indeed be basing its social networking capabilities on Microsoft's Live Anywhere platform. Not an incredibly huge surprise, given the functions we've already heard described and the Xbox roots of the device, but it should give the Zune a good boost in the direction of its 18-28 year old demographic, which Microsoft claims will skew a bet younger than that of the iPod. The social aspects, including that trusty friends list from Xbox Live, is purportedly taking some cues from MySpace, which seems to go beyond the functions we spied at our E3 demo of Live Anywhere. DMN also reveals that the 30GB Zune will have the "same pricing, look and feel as the 60GB iPod," which was $399 the last time we checked. That, of course, is the same price as an Xbox 360 Platinum, which might put the hurt on the cashflow of their younger target demographic. As rumored, the Zune should come in three colors, and that round button is indeed a scroll wheel to work the menus. WiFi functionality will be able to share music with up to 10 friends in a close-range peer to peer fashion, but to share a protected track your friend will have to "bookmark" the song for purchasing later. The player will be incompatible with other PlaysForSure services, focusing, we suppose, exclusively on their URGE store. There's still no word on non-DRMed MP3 sharing, but the outlook isn't good. Microsoft is aiming for a November release in the US, to be followed by a global launch next year. We would promise you more info as the release looms nearer, but we're not sure what else we could say.
Think Secret dishes on Zune, future iPods
Apple rumor site Think Secret has been busy chatting it up with all those company insiders whom Misters Jobs and Gates would love to get their rich and powerful hands on, and turned those leaks into an article which dispels some of the recently-circulating iPod rumors, along with providing a few more tantalizing deets about Microsoft's upcoming "iPod killer." For starters, it looks like we shouldn't be expecting the "true" video iPod until at least the annual MacWorld Expo in January -- though larger capacity 5G 'Pods may arrive in the interim -- and apparently the long-rumored iPhone also won't be coming anytime soon, as that project has reportedly been put on hold for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, when the 6G iPod is finally released, it will likely lack both the wireless capabilities and talking interface that some people have been anticipating; Apple is said to believe that the former feature would have too much of an impact on battery life, while the latter would only feed what's seen as a marginal consumer demand. Finally, Microsoft's so-called Zune -- which is rumored to sport WiFi for communicating with MTV's Urge service -- may also come equipped with a powerful 400MHz processor suitable for gaming, as well as a built in tuner for receiving satellite radio broadcasts. Obviously all this info is just speculation from unnamed sources for now, but if the Zune does end up duping your iTunes tracks, playing high-quality games, and giving you access to Sirius or XM on the go, then Apple may be facing its first real marketplace battle in the iPod's brief but influential existence.
Zune to get Super Bowl XLI commercial?
Either Microsoft has never had a Super Bowl commercial, or they've wasted some serious cash on mega-expensive advertising that no one -- at least not at Engadget HQ, anyway -- can seem to recall being aired in recent memory. Looks like that could soon change though; amidst all this hype about the Zune / Argo / Xboy / Microsoft portable media player / whatever the hell it's called, we've received word that Microsoft may be taking this effort all the way to the end zone. According to Digital Music News, the Zune could be starring in a Super Bowl XLI commercial in 2007, which would, of course display the company's commitment to the project initiative -- as well as giving it the kiss of death. Remember what happened to the last prominently placed portable media player to get some Super Bowl commercial action? Yeah, barely, right?
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Microsoft approaches iPod accessory makers for Zune
It was inevitable: we get confirmation that the Zune is for real, and now Microsoft is already tapping into the device accessories market. They don't have to go far to find a slew of companies ready and willing to pop out goodies for their new DAP; it's presumably as simple as calling up the folks who make accessories for that other portable music player. iLounge has it that apparently the Zune will feature a proprietary expansion port not so different in function from the iPod's dock connector, and Microsoft is reportedly offering contracts which would allow partners to officially accessorize at a lower rate than Apple's "Made for iPod" program. It was fairly obvious that Zune's release would spark another Mac vs. PC embroilment, so it's no surprise Microsoft is likely covering their bases and making sure their own accessory lineup is ready.
Microsoft's media player dubbed Zune
Well, the info's finally starting to come in about Microsoft's wireless media player; the project, dubbed Argo, will apparently spawn at very least one device, which we saw yesterday. By way of our trusted sources we now know the device is currently dubbed Zune -- though we don't know whether that name will stick -- and we've got ourselves a product logo (shown above). We also understand that Zune to Zune wireless song transfer -- a PlaysForSure feature currently highlighted in the MusicGremlin -- is said to be a prominent aspect of the device's development, and in addition to the white shade we saw yesterday, we can expect a complement of colors to be available at or near launch. Oh, and apparently the Zune will have a brushed metal back with an engraved logo, not unlike the you-know-what. More to come, folks.
