Sandboxes are a type of MMO that emphasize player freedom and expression. They frequently include mechanics for building, crafting, trading, character customization and development, roleplaying, destruction, and significant interaction with the world and other players. A sandbox that is dominated by an open-PvP or free-for-all ruleset is sometimes pejoratively called a gankbox. Contrast with the themepark.
sandbox
Co-op will be limited in Star Citizen’s Squadron 42 [Updated]
Do you love debating over semantics and unstated intent? Because you're going to have a field day with this one. The original Kickstarter page...
Project Gorgon nears funding goal, reveals new races [Updated]
It's looking good for the imaginative Project Gorgon, as it has nearly reached its current Kickstarter crowdfunding goal after two past failed campaigns. The...
Massively Overthinking: Whither went the classic PvE MMORPG?
Today's Massively Overthinking question was sent via e-pigeon from Kickstarter donor Apollymi. No e-pigeons were hurt in the writing of this article.
"Have you heard...
Get a sneak peek of ArcheAge’s 2.0 patch notes
Curious what ArcheAge patch 2.0 will look like when it finally arrives later this summer? One helpful fan has translated the Russian patch notes...
Starr Long on story focus and Shroud of the Avatar’s Release 20
Shroud of the Avatar's Release 20 is accessible right now, assuming you're a backer at the First Responder level and above, or that you...
Black Desert releases the Kunoichi class
If you're a fan of sneaking past enemies before exploding out of stealth with throat-stabbing fervor, you might be the ideal player for Black...
Pathfinder Online deploys holding and outpost warfare system
Purposeful PvP is expanding in Pathfinder Online, as today Goblinworks is rolling out its holding and outpost warfare system for its early enrollment v10.1...
CIG fields questions on Star Citizen’s P-52 Merlin
Got questions about Star Citizen's P-52 Merlin spaceship? Cloud Imperium has answers from technical designer Matt Sherman, who collected a bunch of queries from...
Black Desert publisher opens European office in Amsterdam
So when does the rest of the world get to try out Black Desert? We don't know. But that day seems to be getting...
The Daily Grind: What makes an MMO’s inventory system special?
MMO inventories are often ignored systems unless they're either annoying or exceptional. Some hate the limitations they impose while others appreciate the tough choices...
Global Chat: Do you crave human interaction in MMOs?
I've long been an advocate of "playing alone together" in MMOs. While I enjoy grouping and teaming up to a degree, mostly I want...
Shards Online newsletter highlights revamps, player-run servers, and more
Shards Online's latest newsletter says that July has been one of the most exciting months in the fantasy sandbox's history. For starters, Citadel Studios...
Massively OP Podcast: Episode 23
Justin and Bree discuss Smed's resignation, Project Gorgon, Guild Wars 2's Tempest, Camelot's tribute, SWTOR's Togrutas, and WildStar's stat overhaul, with a buncha mailbag questions on Marvel Heroes.
The Repopulation revamps its PvP system
Forget what you might have seen or played of The Repopulation's PvP in the past, because the upcoming sandbox MMO is bringing to bear...
PSA: Star Citizen can be downloaded and played for free until July 31st
Do you want to try out Star Citizen for yourself now but don't feel comfortable spending any money on a game that doesn't actually...
Videos offer impressions of Black Desert’s new Valencia region
While fans in the North American market can't jump in check out Black Desert's latest update (the game needs to launch here first!), they...
Tamriel Infinium: Imperial City revitalizes Elder Scrolls Online’s PvP
I've always found it odd that one of Bethesda's biggest showings at a convention every year is QuakeCon. Elder Scrolls Online, especially, has always...
Gloria Victis is getting building and skill system updates
The Gloria Victis dev team has been working on "two massive features" in recent weeks, according to a post that appeared on the fantasy...
Stormhaven Studios forms to work on sandbox Saga of Lucimia
Group-oriented sandbox Saga of Lucimia has taken a significant step to legitimacy this past weekend by announcing that it is now under the umbrella...
Revival outlines mechanics for religion and temples
The developers behind Revival don't want your only path to conquest to be something as simple as warfare. You can also subtly influence a...