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Rise and Shiny recap: Forsakia
Forsakia is a new Flash-based free MMORPG brought to us by alaplaya -- the same company that brought us LOCO, Florensia and the soon-to-be Argo. I should have learned my lesson and taken my time to pick my next Rise and Shiny game, but in my pre-holiday haste I grabbed the first thing I could find. Granted, I wanted to find a Flash- or browser-based game to play since I would be writing a few upcoming articles about gaming with a new laptop or netbook, but Forsakia is still in beta and needs a lot done to it. So bear that in mind as I look at it, got it? If there is one thing I have learned over these years of playing free-to-play or imported games, it's that a lot can change between betas and releases. I'm hoping that this is the case for Forsakia. It's got its charm and its convinience, but I found myself a little confused and somewhat bored. A good measure of how bored you might be is to watch the chat: If players are talking about getting groups together to grind -- in the newbie area -- then you might be in trouble. Still, read on!
MapleStory developer destroys the world, then this interview
Cataclysm? Ha! A couple chunks of earth missing here and there and a nasty footprint left on the walls of a castle? That's not world destruction; that's moving the furniture around! Look no further for true heart-rending, life-altering, earth-shattering, massive destruction than MapleStory's new update. Well, I might be pushing it a bit far, but really -- it's pretty dramatic. If you're not familiar with the game, you either have an all-weather stone roof or this is your first visit to Massively. MapleStory boasts one of the largest playerbases in the world, despite offering more "primitive" graphics. The game's accessibility doesn't mean that it has no depth. Multiple classes and tons of quests as well as a robust cash shop offer something for everyone. Throw in the fact that this recent patch updated the graphics and added a new dimension to the game, and you will understand why the servers and website were crushed after the update. Well, we decided to interview Crystin Cox from Nexon to help make sense of all the changes. Join us past the cut to read the interview!
First Impressions: Pandora Saga beta event
When I was asked to check out Atlus Games' Pandora Saga in its new form, I was slightly excited. Only slightly, though. See, I've taken a look at it before and found a lonely game with nothing but grinding to offer -- at least at first. So I hoped that the game had changed some, perhaps matured a bit for this newer offering for a newer audience. I didn't know it back then, but the game I was playing was not really the North American release. I just signed up and played it, and I didn't pay attention to any warnings that "This is not the North American version!" if there were any. As it goes, this new version is really just a more localized and tweaked version of the previous game. The big difference for me came not in the form of quests and content, but in playerbase. The game space was flooded with players, most of them pining to hit level 30 first or run off to reported huge PvP matches. Again, I kind of felt left behind. Yes, I was given some handy experience potions and stat-increasing aids, but normally I play a First Impressions game a few hours a day for five to seven days. I had this game for only about three days. Click past the cut and I'll tell you more.
Massively's holiday guide to cash shop prices
I've been asked by readers, many times, to put together a comparison of cash-shop prices. I have always avoided the topic for one glaring reason: There is no constant. Sure, I can tell you how much you get for a dollar, but a wonderful mount in one game might not even be recognized as a mount in another! Quality is subjective, so how would I attempt to measure that? Also, if we wanted to compare the hundreds of cash-shop games out there, we would simply not have enough room. Yes, there are hundreds -- with more coming all the time. Let's be really conservative, though. I broke it down into 10 games that Massively readers will probably recognize or care about. Not all Massively readers, granted, but many, I am sure. It would do me no good to compare some tiny, indie game to Lord of the Rings Online, simply because I would be met with the equivalent of a blank stare. Such is the unfortunate state of gaming right now. After I marked up the list of 10, I lost two straightaway because -- while they have a cash shop in the technical sense -- those cash shops aren't something that can be put up against the others, or they have many items that just wouldn't make much sense. For example, I can tell you how much you can get for 10 dollars in Mabinogi and that you can sell some of those items to possibly purchase a house, but then we have to discuss the variable cost of the house, the upkeep -- on and on. I will definitely have to do a much larger list at some point. Anyway, read on, and I will put notes where needed. Let this serve one main purpose: to prove that there is no constant in cash shops and no generalities -- it's all up to the individual to decide on the quality and value of the items.
Free for All: Four games I'm dying to play in 2011
The year 2010 was a great year in gaming. If anyone tells you any different, look him in the eye -- you've just met a madman. In fact, 2010 did so much for me, personally, that it might be hard to top it for a while. I actually started getting paid to write my blog entries this year, discovered so many wonderful new developers this year, and played more hours than in all of the previous years combined. As luck would have it, there are already several new games being announced that are making 2011 look like an even bigger year for me. Browser-based technology is only growing more robust and rich, indie gaming is finally starting to get a lot of the respect it deserves, and I now have the ability to contact almost any developer I want for use in my columns. All of this adds up to some exciting times ahead, for sure. All thanks to Massively, of course. There are four games in particular that I am very excited about. More will come, I'm positive, but these four have already cast huge spells on me. Click past the cut to see what you should be excited about, too!
Rise and Shiny recap: RuneScape
This week I decided to take a deeper look at RuneScape, one of the web's largest free MMORPGs. I've played it off and on over the years but thought it was the perfect time to take a deeper look. After all, one of my fellow writers is currently taking a look at the game and its developers, so why not round off the discussion with a good solid week of playing? Really, I could have played it for a much shorter time and still come to the same conclusion. From the very beginning, the essence of RuneScape shines through. But what about the community? Isn't RuneScape a "kid's game?" Isn't it filled with 14-year-old boys named some version of "Pwnzer?" What about the graphics? Aren't they pathetically unrealistic? How does that affect immersion in the game? All I can say is read on! I was not only glad to see my gut feeling about the game being reinforced, but excited to see a game that is doing things that no others come close to doing.
Free for All: An insight on indie from Alganon
Recently I decided that I wanted to ask different indie developers how their world revolves and what it's like to exist within that world. Development is a funny thing and often much more difficult than many of us will ever know. In my experience, the budget doesn't change the basic goings-on in the development studio, but it can effect what developers are willing to talk about. I would never expect certain mainstream developers to ever open up to certain questions, while many indie developers seem more than willing. Last time, I asked the developers of Istaria what they thought, which you can read here. This time, I decided to send some questions to Quest Online, the maker of Alganon. I received my answers from Derek Smart, president of QOL. Alganon has been one of my surprise favorites of the last year, so I was eager to ask some questions -- after all, he says exactly what's on his mind.
Rise and Shiny recap: Linkrealms
Over the last week I was privileged enough to participate in Mythyn Interactive's Linkrealms beta, a game that I had watched for a while now. The trailer is just neat (to use a truly nerdy word) and strikes you immediately with its awesome animations and spell effects. In fact, the animations are very cool and probably one of my favorite parts of the game. That says a lot, especially since the combat and community are such charmers. There's something about the animations that brings the game out of indie territory -- and out of Ultima Online territory -- and plants it more in the area of original and immersive. Of course, the game is still testing. I will bet that, like many indie games, it will stay in beta for a long, long time. We players need to be forgiving when developers do this and understand that true release -- even just calling it that -- is just not that simple. I can almost sense the fear in my discussions with some of the developers: they have worked their butts off on the game, they have spent way too much time working on this digital world, and they don't want their work to be misrepresented. This fear is completely rational, especially if we think just for a second about how quickly players not only eat up content, but mercilessly blame developers for every single thing they feel is wrong with the game. So, follow me after the jump and let's talk about why this game is so good, even if it does still need a little more time in the oven.
Free for All: The Immersion Project, a standard
In preparation for this week's article, I thought I would play through a few games to compare which ones might fit into the Immersion Ruleset. Instead of listing off several games and how a "normal" player might apply the rules to them, I decided to share a few examples of some of the best games that force immersion onto a player -- whether he likes it or not. Of course, this doesn't work for all people and all times. It might be a good idea to discuss how forced systems affect the game as compared to optional systems. As much as it pains me to say so (I am the biggest believer in allowing players to choose), forced immersion really does make a difference. When there is a standard, all players must abide by it -- no shortcut will do away with it. So, here are a few games that force a player to immerse himself into a game through a combination of systems, environment, and setting. Of course this might or might not be a good thing, depending on the player.
Rise and Shiny recap: MilMo
If there's one thing I think many developers need to learn, it's to keep games accessible. No, I'm not talking about making a game "easy" -- I'm talking about making it available to as many different players as possible. This means making a game that can run on many different PC setups and does not require a degree of some sort to play. Yes, there is a time and a place for uber-realistic, theory-crafting, nerdy-wonderland games, but bear in mind that good design does not automatically translate into complicated design. As I played through MilMo this week, I realized how much potential this new generation of browser-based games has. The new engines, Unity in particular, give developers the ability to make beautiful games that can be accessed directly through the browser. I was surprised to find a good-looking "kid's game" that presented plenty of challenge and fun for kids of all ages (including 36-year-old game writers like myself). Read on for more details.
First Impressions: Atmosphir
After poking around some of my usual haunts to find interesting new games to show you, I stumbled across Atmosphir. Granted, it's not a true MMORPG -- I will tell you that up front. I knew, however, that it was something that needed to be shown for several reasons. It's totally free-to-play but features an optional subscription that will get you a monthly 500 points to spend in the cash shop for optional customizations and items. All weapons are already balanced and equal, so there's no "buying power" in this game. Customization is a blast, and the characters feel sharp and bright. I was able to make a unique-looking character despite having initially limited choices. Paying the monthly subscription opens up many more choices, making it easily worth the six dollars or so. The real game shines when you load a custom-made level and rack up points. If you like what you see, you might even have a chance to edit the level yourself or make a brand-new level of your own design. Let me me explain a bit more and you'll see why this might be a very important game to keep an eye on.
Exclusive Zentia contest information and more
My, how Zentia has grown! One moment, the charming game is slowly working its way into our hearts, and the next it's parading around with a fat playerbase and upcoming contests. Well, we have more exclusive information for you again -- this time it involves server changes and prizes. Time to celebrate the first PvE server opening for Zentia! The PvP server Spoon will be converted to a PvE server (date to be announced) There will be no force attack on regular maps anymore The battlegrounds War of Camp, Royal Hunt Park and Treasure Island will have force attack enabled Don't worry; dueling will still be allowed on all maps In celebration of the new server and the holidays, ChangYou has decreed that lucky random players will receive 200 tokens to use in the cash shop -- a total of $50,000 in tokens! On top of that, four really lucky players will receive a $500 Amazon gift card, just in time for some holiday shopping. (I wear a small, by the way.) If you'd like to find out more information about the game, check out some of our first impressions here and here. You can sign up for a free account on the website and follow the game on Facebook.
Free for All: Revisiting the rules of immersion
Years ago, I found myself wanting something more out of my gaming. I never was a "typical" player; I never achieved max level or defeated the greatest enemies. After some thought, I realized that I played the same as I lived: always curious, needing to explore, willing to step into someone else's story, or wanting to create my own. I needed games to mean more than just a stat-sheet or a weekly raid schedule. I needed to feel more connected to this activity that was taking up so much of my time. Otherwise, it was just a job. At the time, I was very much into Vanguard. I still am, but my schedule has left me without enough time to play as much as I'd like. I loved how the world of Telon sucked you in with its massive landscapes and endless waters. Yes, the game has many issues, and yes, the community does as well. I wasn't going to let that stop me from writing up a series of rules -- more like guidelines -- that would almost force myself to slow down, to connect to the character I was playing, and to have fun. I've decided to re-examine and update the rules, especially because I could use them now more than ever. We'll start by breaking down the original set.
The Soapbox: Actually, it IS a land of rainbows and unicorns
Disclaimer: The Soapbox column is entirely the opinion of this week's writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of Massively as a whole. If you're afraid of opinions other than your own, you might want to skip this column. My neighborhood is a perfect representation of the general MMORPG community. I walk my dogs around the block twice a day, so I have seen probably much more than any other community member would ever guess. You'd be surprised how much you miss if you don't get out and walk around the block. The cast of characters is always there: there are the old men who rise at precisely Retired o'Clock only to stand on their front lawns with hands in pockets, griping about the price of milk. I walk by and I can tell they want me to participate. Sure, they'll mention how pretty my dog is and might even ask how I'm doing -- but I know what they really want to talk about. Misery might love company, but frankly I think drinking milk is disgusting. There is one nimble old man, however, who jogs around the entire block at least twice a week. He's tall and lanky, but that doesn't stop him from flapping around the area in his too-old-for-those shorts. Let me be honest: Every time I see him, I fantasize that he is holding up his middle finger at those gripey old men as he passes them by. Meanwhile, most people are in their houses, laughing at the television and eating dinner. They are happy with life but busy living it. They don't say much and rarely leave the house.
Kingsisle shines some light on Wizard101 gardening
If you're a player of Wizard101, the surprisingly deep card-based MMO from Kingsisle Entertainment, then you were probably surprised when gardening made an appearance on the test server last week. I know I heard a gasp of surprise as my wife logged in to take a look! It seems as though players will now be able to grow their own plants, complete with their own personalities and faces. Well, things were still a bit foggy so we decided to fire off a few questions (with the help of our friend Fallon at Diary of a Wizard) in the hopes that our thumbs would become a little greener. Thankfully, Fred Howard, V.P. of marketing at Kingsisle, was able to answer them all. Join us past the cut for the full interview!
Rise and Shiny recap: Tales Weaver
Tales Weaver by Nexon and Game & Game is an interesting little game that recently opened up to North America. As far as I can tell, anyway. I tend to find my game choices in the dark alleys of the internet, so sometimes my information can be a little confused. It doesn't help that the game is seven or so years old, so most of the walkthroughs, guides or FAQs are from another age altogether. I generally ignore those sources of data, but I had to look them up at one point since I was simply so confused. After a week of playing (and eating turkey) I finally figured out that the game hides most of its adventures in NPC text. You need to pay attention or you might miss some important bit that is absolutely needed in order to go further. For example, I can't remember whether or not this one particular NPC asked me to bring rubies to him from his sister, or to find his sister and give the rubies to her, once I found them for him. This confusion lasted for most of the week. Sure, I found lots of other players -- but they didn't speak a word to me. When I finally found a female player character who was willing to answer my questions, I was so thrilled that I think I overwhelmed her a bit. Still, I like the challenge the game presents. There's something familiar about it, but something mature as well.
Free for All: An insight into Istaria's indie development
Last week I was able to hand off some questions to Amarie, the Community Manager for Virtrium and Istaria: Chronicles of the Gifted -- the game formerly known as Horizons. While the game might be getting a little long in the tooth, it's important to note that development is still a priority and that the game is still very enjoyable and playable. It boasts 11 different playable races (including dragons!) and an open character development system that puts some more modern games to shame. I recently received a copy of a producer's letter and was impressed by its open, frank nature. I quickly contacted the team and its members agreed to answer several questions. There's a lot to read, so grab a coffee and let's take a look into the world of indie development.
Ablegamers releases shopping list for disabled players
If you are a disabled player or know one, you might need some help with your gift shopping. Well, worry no more: Ablegamers.com has compiled a pretty nice list of items for your loved ones! Let's say you want a great iPad mount -- well someone has made one. Perhaps you're really needing an old-fashioned joystick controller, complete with extenders and customizable buttons? Well, there's one of those too! There are literally millions upon millions of disabled people in North America alone. Of those, a good percentage are gamers -- or want to be gamers but have issues connecting to and participating in these wonderful games that we all love. Why not buy one of these items for the disabled person in your life? Or perhaps you could locate a stranger who needs the item -- just ask your gaming buddies. Don't be surprised when someone knows somebody else who could use something that appears on this list! Thanks to Ablegamers.com, some players will not be left out of the game!
Rise and Shiny recap: Regnum Online
Regnum Online is an RvR-based game brought to us by NGD Studios. The motto for the game is "The best MMORPG with realm versus realm action for free." In other words, if you liked it in other games, you'll probably like it here, and for free! I can't really comment too much on this game's similarities to other RvR games, being that I only mildly experienced RvR in Dark Age of Camelot and Warhammer Online so far. Either way, it's a forgivable offense -- DAoC didn't invent PvP, anyway. But then the question becomes: Does Regnum deliver fun of any kind? See, I long ago gave up on PvP -- it's really just a game of tag. In fact, it's one of the least "hardcore" activities that a player can participate in, simply because the "harsh" death penalty is generally equal to sitting down for a split second and maybe jogging a bit after. Granted, if this were real life we were talking about, many gamers might have a major issue with the jogging -- but it's not. Aren't PvP and MMORPGing supposed to be a semi-copy of real life, though? So where's the pain when you die? Where's the suffering or the punishment? Allods tried to punish players, but some players moaned about that. It turns out that the only fear of the Reaper is based on the fact that he has a 30 second stopwatch on. Then there is the PvE aspect of many PvP games like Regnum. Oh, boy -- the PvE.
Mabinogi to host in-game fundraiser for Starlight Foundation
Nexon America's Mabinogi is known for its bright clothing and extreme customization. It will now be known as charitable as well, thanks to the recent sale of the Starlight Scepter, a silvery wand that puts out a wonderful rainbow effect. During the charity event (scheduled to run for an entire year) 50 percent of the wand's cost -- roughly $4 US -- will be donated directly to the Starlight Children's Foundation, a charity that helps seriously ill children and their families. This would be the perfect opportunity to look good and feel good at the same time. Not only that, but if you purchase one of the newly submitted Mabinogi soundtrack songs from iTunes, 100 percent of the proceeds go to the charity. That means that for every 99-cent song, Starlight Children's Foundation will receive 35 cents! The Foundation has been helping children with serious illnesses for more than 25 years. So, the next time someone asks you where you got that killer looking wand, you can tell him how you helped the foundation!
