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Masthead releases Earthrise vehicle concept art
What's Masthead Studios been up to lately? Aside from bug-fixing and putting out fires on the forums of its newly released sci-fi sandbox called Earthrise, the studio is finding time to iterate on future features for the world of Enterra. Player vehicles have been an oft-requested addition since the game's early beta days, and if two new pieces of concept art are any indication, the cries haven't gone unnoticed. Masthead has just published preliminary models for two types of single-occupant vehicles, both bearing the sexy lines and sleek stylings of a futuristic hover-bike, swoop, or insert-sci-fi-motorcycle-analog-here. While there's no word on when we'll see these new pieces of awesome in the game, we'll keep our eyes (and ears) peeled for further details. In the meantime, check out both images in our gallery below. %Gallery-48760%
Pocket Legends declares war on high prices, celebrates 1-year anniversary
Pocket Legends is ready to blow out some birthday candles, and players of the portable MMORPG are standing by to take the cake. Spacetime Studios is giving away all of the game's premium areas beginning on April 19th, which means that new and existing players get full access to Balefort Castle, Fathom Crypts, The Lost Expedition, and more -- all free of charge. Players can level to the cap and freely enjoy all of Pocket Legends' zones through Monday, May 4th. This adds up to hundreds of hours of free content, and Spacetime is also decorating each in-game town with cakes, streamers, and balloons -- as well as handing out in-game party hats to everyone. If that's not enough for you, Spacetime's Cinco Barnes is starring in a YouTube short extolling the virtues of the upcoming free content bonanza. Check it out after the cut.
RuneScape readying Holly and Hawthorn event
Spring has officially sprung, and aside from going outside and enjoying the greenery, it's also time to savor the springtime events in your favorite MMOs. RuneScape is throwing an Easter bash called Holly and Hawthorn, and the event is based around the annual baton pass between the Queen of Snow and the Queen of Sunrise. Unfortunately, someone has stolen this year's baton, and players will need to commune with the elements in order to avoid becoming trapped in an eternal winter. There's also a bit of tree-chopping to be done, and all participants will receive exclusive holiday items. Finally, RuneScape community managers will be running competitive events from April 22nd through April 25th, and the player who chops down the most holly and hawthorn trees will win a prize pack full of RuneScape swag. Head to the official website for all the details.
Battlestar Galactica Online passes one million player milestone
Bigpoint's browser-based Battlestar Galactica Online is a certifiable hit according to a new press release touting the fact that the title recently surpassed one million registered players. The milestone comes a scant six weeks after the launch of BSGO's open beta period and dovetails nicely with the news that the game is getting an engine upgrade as well as new ship content. "There is always a risk when you translate a well-known IP into another medium. We built what we believed was a recipe for success; a fantastic gaming experience inspired by an iconic show, with the added benefit of being a free-to-play title," explains Bigpoint CEO Heiko Hubertz. Head to the official Battlestar Galactica Online website for more info on the game and the new upgrades.
Faxion Online delivers the ten commandments of PvP
Thou shalt target the healers? Check. Honor thy guild and group? Check. If you fancy yourself a PvPer, Faxion Online's newly released Ten Commandments of PvP is worth a read. Even if you're not, the list will no doubt provide a chuckle or two in what appears to be the latest evidence that the free-to-play fantasy title will deliver its MMO conventions with tongue planted firmly in cheek. In a new press release dated this morning, UTV True Games laid out a PvP manifesto with its trademark sense of humor, alluding to artifacts unearthed "at a remote dig site (located two floors above the basement of the company's Austin studio)." Said artifacts have caused a bit of consternation for Faxion's devs, as UTV creative director Mike Madden explained. "All heretofore planned projects, both announced and unannounced, that pit player against player must be reviewed to incorporate the deeper meaning conveyed to us by these ancient tablets," he said. Faxion Online is currently in open beta, and you can learn more -- as well as sign up -- at the game's official website.
Webzen readying Soul of the Ultimate Nation: Episode 2, preview server
New content is on the way for fans of Soul of the Ultimate Nation, and Webzen has just announced the impending release of a global trial server for the game's Episode 2 patch. The new shard will go live on April 28th, and it aims to give players a preview as well as collect feedback prior to the patch's official release. Episode 2 brings major changes to the game including a new leveling system, itemization changes, and new quests. Webzen's press release states that the revamp should "please various gamers with its simple yet strategic gameplay." In addition to the leveling adjustments, Episode 2 introduces the custom passives system whereby players may tweak their avatars' abilities via customizable buffs. The mechanic is intended to encourage grouping between new and old players, and the resultant buffs will stay active as long as the party remains intact. Head to the official Soul of the Ultimate Nation website for more info.
RuneScape patch triggers clan bonanza
Yesterday's news regarding RuneScape's new clan functionality apparently struck a chord with some of you. Actually, based on a followup post on the game's official website, it seems a whole lot of you are forming up with friends to avail yourselves of the new mechanics. Jagex reports that RuneScape currently features over 33,000 clans to choose from, and some 250,000 players have already pledged themselves to a clan (which equals approximately 10,000 people per hour joining a clan). RuneScape players can register their organization by visiting the clan camp south of Falador, and Jagex recommends reserving your clan name as soon as possible due to the overwhelming demand. More info on the patch, as well as today's press release, can be found on the game's official website.
Andi-One universal remote runs Android 2.1, does more than change channels
Like many universal remote controls, the Andi-One boasts compatibility with thousands of devices; unlike most, however, it runs on Android 2.1. This 3.5-inch capacitive touchscreen clicker can check email, browse the web, control your HTPC's mouse and keyboard, run over 100,000 Android apps, act as a VoIP phone, and even kick movies directly to your TV through an HDMI enabled charging cradle. It doesn't just control your entertainment devices -- it is one. For the first time ever, your remote control is giving you the choice between changing the channel, and playing Angry Birds -- if that's not innovation, we don't know what is. She's available now for $350 -- a bargain to some, but not exactly compelling for those who already own a smartphone.
Mythos European open beta starts today
It's been a long road home for Mythos, the free-to-play hack-and-slash MMO from HanbitSoft and Frogster. The game, which enters its European open beta phase today, originally began its life at ill-fated Flagship Studios and was resurrected after the company's dissolution. After a lengthy development cycle, Mythos has officially thrown open its doors to all registered players (over 100,000 of them to date) in preparation for the game's April 28th launch day. A Frogster press release indicates that additional optimization and localization will continue throughout the open beta, and considerable new content will be introduced as well. The level cap will be raised from 27 to 50, and adventurers will be able to explore the snow-capped Umbral Peaks. Players can download Mythos for free at the official website or pick up a retail box version at stores or online retailers. The box copy includes several bonus items as well as a two-day head start on the game's official release.
World of Tanks beta statistics announced
The devs at Wargaming.net aren't shy about sharing player statistics, and why would they be when the studio's flagship World of Tanks title is cranking out some pretty impressive numbers. In a press release dated this morning, the company said that approximately 700,000 tank drivers took part in the year-long beta testing throughout Europe and North America, and those 700,000 players participated in 5.6 million battles. More than 115 million virtual tanks were bombed into oblivion courtesy of 1.7 billion shells, and World of Tanks surpassed 25,000 peak concurrent users. Closed beta testers (registered by 0:00 UTC 27/01/2011) with 1000 or more battles under their belt will be rewarded with an M4A2E4 tank to acknowledge their contribution to the game's development. World of Tanks is officially releasing on April 12th, and Wargaming.net CEO Victor Kislyi is advising players to get their real-life affairs in order. "You still have a couple of days to spend with your friends and families before the war breaks out, so spend it the right way," Kislyi says.
King of Kings 3 Dragon God Resurrection expansion features dragon taming
April is a big month for gamigo's King of Kings 3. The free-to-play fantasy title will be unveiling its first expansion over the next few weeks, and the new Dragon God Resurrection patch looks to add a slew of content to the game. For starters, the level cap is being raised to 140 and a second level of specialization is being unlocked (which will increase the game's class total to 27). Crafting is also being expanded, with the available equipment now scaling to 140 alongside the new level cap. Seven new boss monsters have also been added, and each drops powerful artifacts that players can use to create valuable weapons. Finally, what's a Dragon God Resurrection expansion without dragons? King of Kings 3 has them in spades, including the big nasty boss monster variety as well as tamable dragons that may be used as flying mounts. "Dragon Knights can even raise their own dragons, nurturing a baby dragon into a fully grown flying menace" according to a gamigo press release. The expansion is also adding a good number of new items, quests, and dungeons, and you can read all about it on the game's official website.
TERA European community test kicks off, political system detailed
Blue Hole Studio's TERA has officially kicked off its European testing phase, according to this morning's press release from Frogster. The German gaming company is publishing TERA in Europe, and has sent out 1,500 invites to "the most dedicated and hardcore fans from the TERA community." The special testing event will run for four days, and Frogster says similar events are scheduled for the "very near future." Frogster also drops a few hints regarding the game's political system, noting that it's intended to be endgame content and that elected rulers will access exclusive mounts, impose taxes, and manipulate NPC villagers. The system involves something called policy points which are acquired via questing, and Vanarchs (the term for players that ascend to the position of regional ruler) must determine how and where to spend them.
Masthead releases two-month Earthrise roadmap
It's been nearly two months since the launch of Earthrise, and Masthead Studios is moving forward with long-term development plans for the sci-fi sandbox MMORPG. In a press release this morning, the Bulgaria-based dev team laid out a list of new features planned for integration in April and May. Citizens of Enterra will be getting some direction in the form of minimap quest hint indicators, alleviating the confusion that often results when searching for various objectives. Earthrise crafters will be able to produce paint that can be used on armor, weapons, and vehicles, and guild diplomacy mechanics will give leaders the ability to both declare war and cultivate allies. As a result of the February Choose Your Game Feature voting, resurrection mechanics will be coming to Earthrise, and player parties will also be able to share battle points and karma from defeated enemies. Finally, various technical and performance-related tweaks are in the offing, including customizable chat windows, a friends/ignore list, AI improvements, and shadow enhancements.
Bigpoint talks Drakensang Online
Never heard of Drakensang? You're not alone, as the German-made CRPG from Radon Labs is a title that exists pretty far outside the mainstream occupied by the Dragon Ages, Fables, and Oblivions of the world. While it may end up falling short of household-name status, free-to-play MMO maker Bigpoint is nonetheless looking to bring the Drakensang saga to browsers everywhere. Drakensang Online is being billed as an action RPG/MMORPG hybrid, and a recent Bigpoint press release makes numerous references to the speed of the battles as well as the quick and easy access afforded by the browser-only platform. Bigpoint is also highlighting the game's "endless customization options" and "profound and enthralling story." This last bit will be a departure from the source material, as critics generally found the original Drakensang narrative to be lacking when compared to the combat mechanics and the game's overall presentation. You can read more about Drakensang Online at the official website, and don't forget to check out the game's teaser trailer after the cut.
World of Tanks Clan Wars signups begin
Since our GDC sit-down with Wargaming.net CEO Victor Kislyi, we've been quite anxious to get our hands on the World of Tanks Clan Wars mechanic. Happily, the system is just about ready for prime time, and the company has put out a press release announcing official clan signups for both European and North American servers. The Clan Wars action takes place on a global map that is divided into several provinces. Each province features its own particular revenue stream, and Wargaming.net intends for hundreds of clans to duke it out for territorial control rights. Clan Wars will also feature economic and diplomatic systems, making it an entirely new play option for fans of World War II-based armored conflict. "Clan Wars is not just a new game mode, but rather a separate gameplay layer or meta-game designed to provide years of fun and action for those fond of strategic thinking, politics, alliances, and intrigue," Kislyi explains.
En Masse talks more about TERA's BAMs and achievements
This year's GDC didn't bring us any revelations when it comes to TERA. Even though we got to roll through the Smuggler's Hideout and chat with producer Brian Knox, most of what we saw were refinements for the forthcoming fantasy MMO. We did learn that the devs at En Masse Entertainment are a fun bunch, though, and this sense of humor was on display as the team regaled us with footage of various BAMs -- company shorthand for Big Ass Monsters. Today En Masse has released a bit more information on these big bads, which it describes as "bigger than a house, tougher than an armored car, and meaner than a dentist with a grudge." You see, TERA's AI is smarter than that of your average MMO, and the game's BAMs will circle around players as well as recognize attacks and avoid them. Additionally, TERA's mobs bring their own unique and situational attacks to each battle. As players begin to wear down a BAM, the creatures will go through various phases that add further challenge and necessitate strategy adjustments. En Masse also offered a brief nugget pertaining to TERA's achievement system in a press release sent out this morning. "You'll earn achievements no matter which parts of the game you prefer. Story, monsters, player-vs-player combat, economics, and politics all earn you achievements to help you keep track of the great deeds you've done –- and to give you something to shoot for," says En Masse. %Gallery-88481%
Fortune Online video dev diary details classes
Judging by a new (and slickly produced) dev diary video, Gazillion is spending a fair bit of money on its new Fortune Online MMORPG. The video features a mixture of in-game footage as well as commentary from producer Ricardo Mendoza, design director Adam Maxwell, and senior content designer Chris Holtorf. Most of the discussion is focused on two of the game's classes, the Master of Arms and the Disciple of the Dragon, which belong to the Warrior and Guardian archetypes respectively. What's an archetype? "Fortune Online has several classes that you can choose from but we've done something to sort of simplify it for more casual players. We've boiled them down into very basic archetypes," Maxwell explains. Check out the full video after the cut.
Faxion Online sending players to open beta hell tomorrow
Hell is other people, Sartre once wrote, and though he clearly wasn't talking about MMOs in 1944, the line nonetheless applies. Hell is also betas, though Faxion Online's variant looks to be more enjoyable than most if only for the decidedly tongue-in-cheek nature of the entire enterprise. UTV True Games has announced that Faxion's open beta is kicking off tomorrow, March 10th, and a press release describing the hellish (or heavenly) event says the "free-to-play, free-to-prey, and free-to-pray" game will undergo a one-time item wipe as well. The open beta will also feature the "latest iteration of multi-classing abilities" as well as "a completely new player experience." Finally, UTV will also be featuring Faxion Online at this weekend's PAX East, so drop by the booth if you're going to Boston between March 11th and March 13th.
New F2P fantasy MMO DragonSoul announced
While many of you are no doubt playing a certain dragon-themed BioWare title that hit American shores today, the MMORPG world is being graced with a new dragon-centric title of its own in the form of Neonga AG's just-announced DragonSoul. DragonSoul is a free-to-play fantasy title sporting a political system that is "a main feature of the game" according to a Neonga press release. Players can choose to side with one of eight unique kingdoms, cast votes to determine a ruler, and take the field of battle in said ruler's name. DragonSoul isn't entirely about PvP, though, as the title also boasts various non-combat activities including "the cultivation of crops, the mining of resources, the upbringing of pets, and a versatile crafting and upgrade system." Interested players may register for the closed beta test at the game's official website and prepare for DragonSoul's open beta which is currently schedule for the second quarter of 2011.
Gazillion press release clarifies Netdevil layoff rumors
The NetDevil/LEGO Universe brouhaha that unfolded earlier this morning is officially official thanks to a press release just published by Gazillion Entertainment. Gazillion has formally agreed to sell its development stake in the LEGO Universe MMO to the LEGO Group (the game's publisher and custodian of the world-famous toy brand). Most of the LEGO devs, formerly employed by NetDevil (a Gazillion subsidiary), have received employment offers from the LEGO Group and will continue iterating on the game from the company's Louisville, Colorado studio. Gazillion is re-focusing its ongoing development efforts into browser games, according to President and COO David Brevik. "The transition of members of our team to the LEGO Group enables us to focus completely on internally-published, free-to-play game businesses," he said.
