James Ohlen, former director of Star Wars: The Old Republic, discusses his 2018 exit from BioWare after EA rejected a proposed reboot titled Star Wars: The New Republic. Ohlen reflects on the challenges of leading the MMO, the $300 million development cost that likely influenced EA's decision, and his subsequent departure from Archetype Entertainment due to burnout. The veteran developer is now pursuing RPG adventure books and awaits the 2027 release of Exodus, a project led by former BioWare colleagues.
Rumors of a "World of Warcraft Classic Plus" have intensified after Blizzard hosted a secretive event in California for popular WoW Classic streamers, sparking speculation about a modernized version of the old MMO. This potential new iteration would deviate from the original update timeline, instead incorporating modern updates akin to Old School Runescape. With BlizzCon approaching in September, anticipation grows for an official announcement.
Crimson Desert's latest update, 1.06.00, brings a slew of surprises, including a quirky claw machine mini-game with unique rewards and the ability for pet dogs to attack enemies. This update also introduces a Night Tone Mode, refining the game's visuals. With weekly updates inspired by its MMO roots in Black Desert, Crimson Desert continues to evolve rapidly.
Eve Online's developer, now rebranded as Fenris Creations, has parted ways with Pearl Abyss in a $120 million deal, securing independence and a research partnership with Google DeepMind. This move promises to advance AI research within the game's vast, player-driven universe. As newer MMOs struggle, Eve Online sees a resurgence in popularity.
EVE Online's developer, formerly known as CCP, rebrands to Fenris Creations to distinguish itself from the Chinese Communist Party. After over 20 years of operation, the name change aims to resolve growing brand collision issues. The new name draws inspiration from Norse mythology and reflects the game's themes of destruction and creation.
EVE Online's developer, formerly CCP Games, now operates independently as Fenris Creations after a $120 million buyout from Pearl Abyss. The studio has also entered a groundbreaking AI research partnership with Google DeepMind, leveraging EVE Online's vast, living world for AI training and innovation. This move promises to enhance gameplay experiences and push the boundaries of AI capabilities.
Think you can tell real MMO expansions from fakes? Test your knowledge in this quiz and see how well you know games like World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy 14.
