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EQ Next Landmark alpha begins tonight
It's here! Sandbox fans have been waiting with bated breath for EverQuest Next Landmark's alpha announcement, and now we finally have it: EQNL will open those alpha doors tonight! Players who purchased the appropriate level of Founder's Pack (Trailblazer or Explorer) will receive a link via email with instructions on downloading and getting into this testing phase, which is touted as less testing and more interacting with the devs to help direct the actual development of the game. Director of Development Dave Georgeson stated: Later today, we will begin the Alpha for EverQuest Next Landmark and open up the game to our most committed and passionate players. This is the earliest point in the development process that we've ever let players into a game. We are empowering these players to do much more than test the game for bugs. For the first time, our players can join alongside us as part of the development team. They will have a significant voice in how the final game takes shape." Founders should be on the lookout for their golden ticket... er, email... that will enable them to dive into the new sandbox and get building. Those who don't currently own a founder's pack can still purchase one throughout the alpha stage; in fact, SOE's John Smedley promises that the studio "will offer a full refund to anyone not satisfied with the Alpha." And in case you were wondering, yes, this alpha is under strict NDA. While waiting, check out the latest Landmark screens in the gallery below. [Source: SOE press release]
EQ Next Landmark devs randomly Tweeting free Founder's Pack codes
If you are still wanting to get in on the alpha or beta of EverQuest Next Landmark but you haven't procured a Founder's Pack, you might want to follow the devs on Twitter. What started with Franchise Director Dave Georgeson tossing out a free code in a Tweet on Monday has snowballed into multiple devs offering packs via hidden pictures and multi-tweet puzzles. And the fun continues today! If you want to get in on the action, you'll need to follow: @DaveGeorgeson, @terryjmichaels, @omeeddariani, @Rosierap, @mhigby, and @PurrfectStorm. But we warn you, you'll have to be quick to nab these; the codes have been redeemed within seconds!
Smedley confirms EverQuest Next will arrive on PlayStation 4
Although CEO John Smedley's Reddit AMAA last Friday was to address the closures of four SOE games, he also fielded questions about other titles. And one tidbit that Smedley slipped in was that EverQuest Next will definitely be available on the PlayStation 4, a fact that he all but assured players last November but stopped short of confirming. For those who weren't following the AMAA (or maybe lost that brief announcement in the conversation), it was also officially tweeted when the AMAA closed.
Norrathian Notebook: Saying goodbye to EQ 2.5 aka Vanguard
No, your eyes are not deceiving you: The title and picture do both say Vanguard. Although I had other thoughts poised on the end of my pen for today, they've all been scattered to the winds by the unexpected announcement of the closing of Vanguard: Saga of Heroes. In fact, I really can't seem to think of anything else right now, so I am giving up trying and giving in to my Telon thoughts. Besides, ruminating on this topic in Norrathian Notebook is not as far-fetched as you might think. Vanguard's world may be Telon instead of Norrath, but there is a special connection between the realms; there are those who have called Vanguard the true successor to the original EverQuest game. And it is from that vantage that I take this time to look back on what was, enjoy what is (while I can), and mourn for what could have been.
Videos produce EQN Landmark crafting details
SOE has finally dished out more details about EverQuest Next Landmark's crafting system with two new videos. In the first, Lead System Designer Michael Mann spends over four minutes telling (and showing) players where they can craft, what they can craft, and how to craft. The second video gives a quick demo of the saw table crafting station. While we already knew that crafting would take place at communal crafting stations in hubs throughout the world, Mann revealed a new type that is randomly spawned in the world: altars. Altars, which create better and even unique items, are only found by exploring and will disappear after use. All players start with a small list of recipes covering beginning tools and decorations, but the bulk of recipes will need to be discovered or crafted. The crafting process has three variations: items that activate and have no variation (like potions), cosmetic items that have different appearances (like props and clothing), and items with stats (tools and such). Items with stats will utilize a relic system to increase the stats. Check out all the juicy details in the clips below.
EverQuest Next releases new lore ebook, Prison of Fire
EverQuest Next has taken a novel approach to providing fans with lore by publishing a series of ebook novellas, each focusing on a different facet of the EQN incarnation of the world of Norrath. The latest installment in this series, titled Prison of Fire, released today, and it centers on Neria Naldiir, captain of an organization known as the Ebon Dagger. As the name might not-so-subtly imply, the Ebon Dagger is the sort of organization that "handles delicate matters requiring the utmost discretion within the Takish Empire." In the novella, Dalen Naldiir -- the Empire's Minister of Security and Neria's father -- receives news that trouble may be brewing at Tagnik Vukar prison in Lavastorm, where the Empire's most dastardly criminals have been incarcerated. Sensing that something may be amiss, Dalen sends Neria and her companions to investigate, and we all know it can only go downhill from there. To read Prison of Fire -- or any of the other EQN novellas -- just click on through the link below to the game's official site.
MMO Mechanics: Balancing game economies
Most players won't need an economics degree to play an MMO, but strong mechanical forces under the bonnet still guide our actions in our favourite titles. Virtually every financial exchange can be broken down into an effort equals economic gain equation: We put in our hours, and the game economy churns out new gear or money. Since so many in-game actions financially reward players, MMOs have developed mechanics that attempt to curtail the inflation game economies usually see. Charging your character for goods and services, bind-on-pickup gear, regular destruction of valuable goods, and player-controlled auction house and farming systems all combine to keep the spiralling amount of coppers falling into player hands in check. In this week's MMO Mechanics, I'm going to look at some ways both sandbox and themepark MMOs automatically rebalance weighted economies by exploring the systems that restrict the free trade of goods and curb players' constant accrual of money. I'll look at how each system functions and how player manipulation adds a new layer of realism to game economies.
EQ, EQII, and EQN devs dish on new game content for The Year of EverQuest
With EverQuest Next Landmark on the horizon, EverQuest Next in the wings, and EverQuest and EverQuest II going strong, this truly is the year of EverQuest. There's simply no denying that 2014 will be pretty significant for the franchise; one game turns 15, another turns 10, and the newest turns 0. To help kick of this monumental year, I got to talk shop with producers Thom Terrazas (EQ), Holly Longdale (EQII), Terry Michaels (EQN/EQNL), and Franchise Director Dave Georgeson and hear about upcoming content slated for each of these different projects. As Georgeson put it, "It's going to be a fun month!" As a bonus, we've also added a video that shows off some of that very content.
Leaderboard: EQN vs. EQN Landmark
Apparently EverQuest Next: Landmark is going to be playable in a few days. I say apparently because I haven't bought any of the alpha access packs and therefore haven't really been paying attention to whether or not SOE is on track to follow through with its end-of-January promise. But that's Landmark. EverQuest Next -- which is a totally different beast -- has no current timetable. It could release in 2015 or 2025 for all we know right now. Are you holding out for one game or the other, or do you plan to play both? Vote after the cut! Ever wish that you could put to rest a long-standing MMO debate once and for all? Then welcome to the battle royal of Massively's Leaderboard, where two sides enter the pit o' judgment -- and only one leaves. Vote to make your opinion known, and see whether your choice tops the Leaderboard!
Norrathian Notebook: Preparing yourself for EQN Landmark
Whether you are a Founder who will access alpha or not, EverQuest Next Landmark is coming up on us like a bullet train; it will be here before you know it. As opposed to most games that stretch your anticipation out for years, this one is going from announcement to playable in less than six months -- if alpha does indeed make it out in January. Those who are opting for closed and open betas or even launch shouldn't have much longer to wait, either. I expect that those stages will maintain the same speed we've already seen, putting players into the game proper well before the next SOE Live. So with the ultimate build-it-yourself sandbox on the horizon, the question is this: Are you ready? Have you got all your ducks in a row in order to best experience Landmark? Can you say you are all set to take advantage of those first minutes logged in? If not, I've got a few strategies, tips, and tricks to help you prepare for when the game goes live.
Landmark producer video teases upcoming updates
SOE has released another EverQuest Next Landmark video producer's letter. The two-and-a-half-minute clip features producer Terry Michaels, who says that alpha is just around the corner. He also plugs the recent claim-focused livestream -- which Massively's own MJ live-blogged for your perusing pleasure. Finally, there's some new fiction in the works along with some community questions and answers and a contest geared toward EverQuest vets. Oh, and Michaels also says to keep your eyes peeled for a new dev diary focused exclusively on Landmark's mysterious crafting system. We've embedded the producer letter video after the break.
SOE hiring language-specific Community Reps for EQN Landmark
If you've got a passion for EverQuest Next Landmark and you are a native speaker of French, German, or Castilian Spanish, then SOE has a job opportunity for you. The Community Management Department, headed by Linda "Brasse" Carlson, is seeking Community Representatives for each of these languages to work on the upcoming sandbox. The positions are part-time and you work from home (so no need to relocate to San Diego!). If interested, send cover letter and resume to lmcarlson@soe.sony.com. Good luck to all who apply!
EQ Next Landmark livestream liveblog: Learn about claims!
Plenty of questions have been asked about land ownership in EverQuest Next Landmark, and some of those answers are on their way right now! Senior Producer Terry Michaels, Lead Game Designer Darrin McPherson, Senior Brand Manager Omeed Dariani, and Community Manager Colette "Dexella" Murphy are discussing claims in the official livestream going on now. Also on the docket: More details about the Landmark Community Celebration event at the end of this month. If you can't tune in to the broadcast yourself over at Twitch, we've got you covered; watch the livestream below and follow along as Massively's MJ liveblogs all the juicy tidbits in the comments below.
Learn about claims in EQ Next Landmark's livestream tomorrow
There are still plenty of unknowns when it comes to EverQuest Next Landmark, which is all the more reason to catch tomorrow's official livestream! Starting at 7:00 p.m. EST on Wednesday the 15th, devs will take to the airwaves to answer more questions about the upcoming sandbox -- specifically about claims. So if you want to get the scoop on snagging your own plot (including its square footage), be sure to tune in to EQN's official twitch channel. And for those who are contemplating heading to San Diego and getting some hands-on experience with the game, the team will also offer more details about the Landmark Community Celebration coming up on the 31st.
Smedley expounds on benefits blunder and SOE's philosophy
When SOE first announced the membership changes coming to some of its titles, the company stirred up a storm that was completely unexpected, according to CEO John Smedley. After listening to the community, the studio reversed parts of the proposal and unveiled an extra benefit: a $14.99 All-Access pass. But even after a few extra posts explaining the changes and the reasoning behind them, there were still some unanswered questions and remnants of confusion from the quick succession of announcements. Why were some titles in SOE's arsenal listed part of the pass but others aren't? Which membership gift is actually the one going forward? When will these changes take place? And what about the European players? I sat down with Smedley to answer these questions and get some added clarity on these changes,
Norrathian Notebook: The top 10 Tattered moments of 2013
At the end of every year and the beginning of a new one, many people kick back and review what went well and what went wrong. We certainly got a taste of something that went wrong last week, so let's switch gears and focus on the positive! For my one-year anniversary as a writer of this column (I took over this piece exactly one year ago this week), I felt it was particularly appropriate to reflect back on the previous year, highlighting the best moments of The Tattered Notebook. Actually deciding on only 10 articles to fill out my favorites turned out to be more difficult than I thought. There we were plenty of useful guides, videos, holiday celebrations, and even a peek at a certain upcoming game. But when forced to choose, these particular moments all stand out. See if my picks coincide with yours!
EverQuest Next Landmark shows off advanced building tools
The EverQuest Next Landmark team is quite proud of its robust building tools for the game, especially now that it has taken suggestions from fans to add new options. Due to all of the added tools, the devs are eager to demonstrate more things that you can do with the game in a new developer video. The video, which is available to select Massively Platinum readers after the break, includes Landmark's selection and line tools as well as its grid mode. Check it out!
Experience EQ Next Landmark at Community Celebration event
If you live in the San Diego area (or are willing to spring for airfare), you can get your own hands-on experience of EverQuest Next Landmark during the EQNL Community Celebration on Friday, January 31st. From 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. PST (1:00 to 9:00 p.m. EST), fans can congregate at the SOE San Diego campus and check out a demo of the sandbox on a local server, mingle and interact with devs, share EQ memories, and win prizes. The only catch is you can't tell us about your experiences: All participants at the event will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).
Smedley is on a 'personal mission' to explain SOE's business decisions
John Smedley's been in the headlines a lot this week thanks to SOE's all-access plans and its subscription-benefits switcheroo. Now, the SOE CEO has taken to Reddit to explain the company's philosophy when it comes to monetization and game-making in general. Smedley says that in the wake of this week's PR firestorm, he's "going to make it one of [his] personal missions to explain the thought process behind [SOE's] business decisions." He wrote, "I want to be able to have an honest enough dialog that I can actually tell you 'yeah this is important to our bottom line... that's why we did it'... and have you at least not question whether that's the real reason. [...] You may disagree with it, but at least you'll be able to make a reasonably informed judgment as to whether or not we're the greedy company some of you seem to think that we are, but at least you'll hear the why." He says that while SOE is clearly a for-profit business, the firm's ultimate goal is to make good games first. He cites EverQuest Next Landmark as an example, saying that SOE rebooted the title three times, which led to a "massive delay [that] hurt [the studio] financially," even though it "was the right thing to do for [SOE] and for the industry."
SOE considering an one-subscription-covers-all plan for $14.99 a month
SOE President John Smedley took to Reddit today to address the "fear, uncertainty, and doubt" that's been swirling about regarding the subscription changes made to its games, most notably PlanetSide 2 and EverQuest II. While he lists several reasons why the studio is doing this, the main reason is a big change in the works: SOE is considering implementing a one-subscription-covers-all plan moving forward. "We are considering (and are likely going to move forward with) a plan that means if you subscribe to one of our games you are a subscriber to all our games (this applies to PC titles only, by the way) all for the current $14.99 a month," Smedley wrote. "That's a benefit most companies simply can't offer because they don't have our portfolio of games. The goal would be to let you pick an item in each game you play." He implied that this plan will also cover EverQuest Next Landmark and EverQuest Next. Other reasons for the subscription change include helping players buy larger items on the marketplace, internal issues regarding people stockpiling Station Cash, and disparity between computer and console promotions. For a more in-depth look at the subscription plan changes, read our recent Norrathian Notebook column.
