Level 1-60 Dungeon Quest Experience Nerfed

Blizzard has decided to cut the amount of XP lower level characters get through dungeon finder so they won't level so quickly.  The article isn't clear whether this will start with Cataclysm or has already been implemented in Patch 4.0.3a The Shattering.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/low-level-dungeon-quest-experience-nerfed/

UPDATE: Psynister is compiling a list of dungeons' and battlegrounds' their new level ranges.
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/12/01/new-level-ranges/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Tank Help for Cataclysm

Cataclysm tank gear list (mostly for warriors but possibly helpful for other tanks).
http://swordboard.wordpress.com/2010/11/28/cataclysm-dungeons-gear-list-for-tanks/

Help for the tanking bear.
http://primalprecision.blogspot.com/2010/11/relearn-new-tanking-style.html

Help for the low level tanking bear.
http://theincbear.com/low-level-bear-tanking/

How to deal with casters if you are a tank.
http://www.jadedalt.com/2010/11/27/tanking-tips-casters/

Opening moves (rotations) for the DK tank.
http://pwnwear.com/forum/priority-rotation-system-t744-15.html#p13267

http://pwnwear.com/2010/12/02/opening-moves-for-dk-tank/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

How to Navigate without Portals

Strategies to pass the time while traveling without portals
http://www.pinkpigtailinn.com/2010/11/strategies-of-fun-for-frequent-flyer.html

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

PvP Brackets Halved?

Cynwise reports that the PvP brackets all seem to be halved.  No official word from Blizzard yet.
http://cynwise.wordpress.com/2010/11/30/battleground-brackets-halved/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Hot Fixes and A Repeat Download of Patch 4.0.3a

WOWHead says today there will be hot fixes and a download of last week's patch as some folks got incomplete data.  You can play and then download Patch 4.0.3a again later if you like.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=175280/hotfixes-and-mysterious-patch-download

UPDATE:  WOWHead listed all the hot fixes implemented this week.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=175426/more-hotfixes-or-why-gamon-will-wreck-you

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Cataclysm Launch Strategies

Blacksen has written an article about the strategies he plans to use when Cataclysm launches to level his character.
http://blacksen.com/archives/996

Larisa links to an extensive list of items to pack and expands it with ideas of her own (mages).
http://www.pinkpigtailinn.com/2010/12/preparing-for-cataclysm-nope.html

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

The Shattering Breaks Isle of Conquest

Isle of Conquest is really broken right now.  Details here.
http://cynwise.wordpress.com/2010/11/28/the-isle-of-conquest-is-really-broken/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Blizzard Bans Waffle Recipes on Forums

Maybe Blizzard prefers French toast?  LOL
http://theincbear.com/waffle-banned/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Navigation Aids for Patch 4.0.3a

Pwnwear has two new articles to help players navigate.  The first is a pictorial guide to the new instances.  Click on the thumbnails to see which one each is.
http://pwnwear.com/2010/11/26/how-to-find-the-new-instances/

The second article mentions this Azeroth level flow map, which shows the zones used in Cataclysm.
http://www.mmo-champion.com/threads/757449-Azeroth-level-flow-map

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

How to Heal When Hit With Bursts of Damage

http://www.worldofmatticus.com/2010/11/22/healing-through-the-burst-damage/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Hand Me Down Gear: Old Gear for New Toons

Pysnister has written an article about how to use old gear to outfit new toons.  It has proved such a hit that he has done three followup articles for mages, rogues and warlocks.
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/11/18/hand-me-downs-a-poor-mans-heirlooms/

Druids
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/11/29/hand-me-downs-druids/

Hunters
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/12/01/hand-me-downs-hunters/

Mages
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/11/19/hand-me-downs-mages/

Paladins
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/12/01/hand-me-downs-paladins/

Priests
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/11/29/hand-me-downs-priests/

Rogues
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/11/24/hand-me-downs-rogues/

Warlocks
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/11/19/hand-me-downs-warlocks/

Warriors
http://psynister.wordpress.com/2010/12/01/hand-me-downs-warriors/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Top Ten Changes in The Shattering

A list of ten major changes.  Many thanks to the Pot for pointing this out.
http://thewownoob.blogspot.com/2010/11/its-end-of-world-as-we-know-it-and-im.html

More changes.
http://birdfall.blogspot.com/2010/11/cracked-world-or-tomorrow-we-get-whole.html

What happens now and what happens when Cataclysm hits.
http://fallingleavesandwings.wordpress.com/2010/11/19/just-a-quickie-4-0-3a-information/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Pets During The Shattering (and Cataclysm)

A summary of changes to pets with Patch 4.0.3a.
http://www.warcraftpets.com/news/perma.asp?n=shattering_patch_pets

A summary of Cataclysm changes
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/cataclysm-hunter-pet-highlights/

A list of extinct and transformed pets.
http://www.maniasarcania.com/2010/11/21/petopia-pet-changes-extinct-pets/

Companion pets added by The Shattering (Patch 4.0.3a)--
http://fallingleavesandwings.wordpress.com/2010/11/24/a-trolls-best-friend-a-look-at-the-companion-pets-of-the-shattering/

Some pets will only be available to those who buy the Cataclysm expansion pack.  Here's the list.
http://www.maniasarcania.com/2010/12/06/cataclysm-expansion-pets/

Blizzard has nerfed the ways players were able to keep pre-taming effects on pets.
http://www.maniasarcania.com/2010/12/14/effect-taming-or-i-should-have-posted-sooner-eh/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Fishing During The Shattering UPDATED

A summary of the changes to fishing after The Shattering (Patch 4.0.3a) hit.
http://www.elsprofessions.com/news/the-shattering.html

Fishing in Cataclysm--a summary.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/12/05/countdown-to-cataclysm-fishing-in-cataclysm/

Location help for those seeking The Limnologist achievement.
http://www.adahys.com/blog/?p=56

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Nameplates and Cooldown Monitors

No Stock UI has found two new addons to help raiders.  One is a nameplate addon for PvP called Docs Nameplates.
http://www.nostockui.com/2010/11/docs-nameplates/

The other is called Flump.  It keeps track of when any player activates a raid cooldown, a portal or drops a feast, and also when the activated ability wears off.
http://www.nostockui.com/2010/11/what-can-flump-do-for-you/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Dressing for Pilgrim's Bounty

Since Pilgrim's Bounty is almost over, I won't post any guides to the achievements, but I did want you to see the outfits that Kirina has assembled so that the fashionable toon can eat in style.
http://wowrpc.waddellconsulting.com/?p=3125

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Podcast Reviews

If you really like listening to WOW podcasts, you will want to head over to r9sid9nt9vil's blog and read the podcast reviews s/he's posting.  Once you arrive, click on Reviews in the categories on the right side and all the reviews will be there, latest on top.  The Nov. 24 posting talks about the methodology for reviews, so it is a good place to start.  Whether you agree with the review or not, you likely will find new podcasts to add to your listening rotation.
http://eviscerated.net/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

The Shattering Allows Renaming of Demon Minions (Warlocks)

Warlocks rejoice!  You can get the new demon trainers (located near the warlock trainers) to rename your minions.  It costs 50 gold per creature but at least you can rename them.  (Or just go get them killed, and summon a new one.)
http://cynwise.wordpress.com/2010/11/27/rename-your-demon-minions/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Changes to Metagems

A look at the changes to metagems and how to cope.
http://twistedfaith.wordpress.com/2010/11/24/the-metagem-conundrum/

Graylo has written two articles, one before tweeks to metagems and one after.
http://graymatterwow.blogspot.com/2010/11/meta-gems-what-do-we-do-now.html

http://graymatterwow.blogspot.com/2010/11/chaotic-meta-requirement-reversed.html

Hunters and metagems
http://www.warcrafthuntersunion.com/2010/11/your-meta-gem-hates-you/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Changes to Inscription

A discussion of the changes to inscription and how they might work with the Auction House.
http://blessingofkings.blogspot.com/2010/11/inscription-and-player-market.html

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Shattering Disappointment

The Pot isn't exactly thrilled with The Shattering.
http://www.mmomeltingpot.com/2010/11/editorial-did-i-fall-asleep/

Cynwise is more positive but poses some interesting questions.
http://cynwise.wordpress.com/2010/11/24/burning-down-the-house/

I'm not posting any "better than sliced bread" raves.  I'm looking for interesting discussions of what Cataclysm's coming means to the game and the game community.


***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Better Screenshots

How to take better screenshots by changing the settings and the ramifications of this.
http://www.manaobscura.com/2010/11/taking-better-screenshots/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

WOW (and Starcraft 2) on the iPad

All about the everyAir app which allows players to play WOW on an iPad.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/24/15-minutes-of-fame-players-bring-touchscreen-wow-to-the-ipad/

Win coupons for the app at WOW Insider. Contest ends tomorrow.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/24/win-everyair-desktop-app-for-the-ipad/

UPDATE:  Starcraft 2 is playable on the iPad now ussing an app made by a company called iSwifter.
http://kotaku.com/5703026/lets-play-starcraft-on-the-ipad

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Raegwyn Solos Kaelthas Sunstrider

A video.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/24/the-classifieds-raegwyn-solos-kaelthas-sunstrider/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

The Amazing Annotated Tour of Cataclysm

Jesse Cox's animated guide to Cataclysm changes.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/cataclysm-annotated-map-adventure/

A direct link.  Click on the boxes to go to various areas.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkpzl010b8Q

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

All About the Shattering (Patch 4.0.3a)

A summary for the changes in Patch 4.0.3a.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/23/patch-4-0-3a-whats-in-the-shattering-whats-not/

Hotfixes for bugs
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/24/patch-4-0-3a-hotfixes-for-nov-23/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Flying Your Mounts in Dalaran (Patch 4.0.3)

During Patch 4.0.1, with a little ingenuity, one could use flying mounts in Dalaran.  Patch 4.0.3 changed all that but Feral Aggression says that there's another, easier way, to fly there now.
http://feralaggression.wordpress.com/2010/11/19/flying-mounts-in-dalaran-4-01/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Mages Can No Longer Name Water Elementals

Blizzard says that being able to name a water elemental is a bug that has been fixed.  Mages are unhappy.
http://mischiefmagicandrocketscience.blogspot.com/2010/11/mischief-water-elementals-no-longer.html

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

/afk, a Film About Soloing Onxyia

The movie premiers tonight.  This is a bit about it.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/premiering-tonight-afk-film-offers-laughs-epic-gaming-scenes/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Description of Gnome and Dward Starting Area (Cataclysm)

Gnomes
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/wow-rookie-cataclysm-gnome-starting-area/

Dwarves
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/12/03/wow-rookie-cataclysm-dwarf-starting-area/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Lich King Leveling Now Easier (and DaIly Quest Gold Bug)

Blizzard has reduced the experience needed to level in Lich King from 71 to 80 by 20%.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/wrath-experience-needed-to-level-reduced-by-20/

By the way, the daily quest gold rewards have been halved but this is a bug.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/daily-quest-gold-rewards-slashed/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Thorough Descriptions of Patch 4.0.3a Contents

This morning WOW Head posted a link to a forum posting listing what has changed or been added in Patch 4.0.3a.  WOW Head also summarizes the main changes, including some the forum posted omitted, at the end of this article.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=174221

Here's the original forum posting by Sammew.  The comments add to the list as well.
http://us.battle.net/wow/en/forum/topic/1021054423#1

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Group Behavior

MMOs have other people in them.  And where you have other people, you have other people whose behavior is going to annoy you no end.  The Pot drew my attention to a post by Tamarind about how people act in the dungeon finder.  Just what is acceptable behavior in groups?
http://www.mmomeltingpot.com/2010/11/righteous-orbs-on-acceptable-standards-in-group-settings/

Blessing of Kings looks at this controvery, explaining how Frostheim set it off and his reactions.
http://blessingofkings.blogspot.com/2010/11/outvoted.html

Here's the article in full.
http://www.righteousorbs.com/?p=2711

The only thing you can do about it is laugh, to tell you the truth.  Tam knows this and posted a quick audio of "The Charge of the Light Brigade" reworked as a raid.  For those who know the Tennyson poem, this is hilarious.
http://www.righteousorbs.com/wp-content/uploads/charge-of-the-light-brigade.mp3

And he's not the only one laughing at group behavior.  Here's Jasyla's take on how to fit in while doing dungeon finder raids.
http://www.cannotbetamed.com/2010/11/17/lfd-how-to-fit-in/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Cataclysm Changes Tailoring

How tailoring will change when Cataclysm hits.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/insider-trader-tailoring-in-cataclysm/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Cataclysm Achievements and Tabards Summary

WOW Insider talks about the changes to current achievements and the new ones coming when Cataclysm hits in this article.  Tabards are also mentioned as well as the changes to the Insane in the Membrane achievement.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/18/the-overachiever-cataclysm-achievements-faq/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

OnLive Console Edition Goes on Sale Tomorrow

It hooks up to your TV and Internet connection and allows you to play games without a computer.
http://kotaku.com/5692959/the-future-of-video-games-goes-on-sale-tomorrow

An unboxing.
http://kotaku.com/5694600/unboxing-unlives-streaming-pc-gaming-console

Early adaptors will get a free micro console.  Details here.
http://www.1up.com/news/onlive-founding-members-eligible-free

UPDATE:  The monthly rate starts in January 2011.
http://www.1up.com/news/onlive-introducing-monthly-plan-january

UPDATE #2:  The rumor mills stays OnLive is going to add streaming video to try to compete with NetFlix.
http://www.1up.com/news/report-onlive-introducing-video-streaming

UDPATE #3:  OnLive says it's not competing with NetFlix and the above comments were taken out of context.
http://www.1up.com/news/onlive-no-agenda-compete-with-netflix

UPDATE #4:  OnLive has a patent on cloud gaming.  Lots of implications....
http://www.1up.com/news/onlive-scores-landmark-patent-cloud

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Problems: Boredom and Bugs

Darth Solo lists all the bugs he's found in Patch 4.0.1, some of which were fixed in Patch 4.0.3 according to the comments.
http://wowalone.blogspot.com/2010/11/patch-401-bugs.html

Adam is just bored by the pre-Cataclysm Elemental Invasion.
http://thenoisyrogue.wordpress.com/2010/11/18/give-me-strength/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Resizing the Default UI

Apparently Patch 4.0.3 has resized the default UI.  If you are tired of squinting at your screen, Rhii explains how to fix the problem.  Screenshots are included to illustrate her tutorial.  Note the additional help at the end of the article.
http://www.ohmykurenai.com/2010/11/how-to-resize-the-default-ui-with-pictures/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

How to Get Rich Quick in Cataclysm

Recently several websites mentioned things that are easy moneymakers when Cataclysm hits.  The Hunter's Arsenal has listed the basics for making gold.
http://thehuntersarsenal.blogspot.com/2010/11/zuggaming-blogging-carnival-making-gold.html

Acadia's Gold has tips for making cash as a low level character using faction items.  Here's the Horde tip.
http://acadiasgold.blogspot.com/2010/11/nothing-lesser-about-it.html

And here is the Alliance one.
http://acadiasgold.blogspot.com/2010/11/tip-for-alliance-other-than-my-weapon.html

Many thanks to the Pot for pointing out the last two items.

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

News Roundup UPDATED

Today (November 16) has extended maintenance, probably for them to add Patch 4.0.3 and all its changes in preparation for next week's The Shattering patch (4.0.3a).
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/tuesday-morning-post-elemental-extended-maintenance-edition/

A bit about Patch 4.0.3
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/4-0-3-released-no-patch-notes-no-game-changes-yet/

http://www.wowhead.com/blog=173983

Amazon is throwing in Burning Crusade free if you buy WOW.  This is a limited offer, just good during the day after Thanksgiving "Black Friday" sales.  Details here.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/pre-black-friday-amazon-offering-burning-crusade-free-with-wow/

Blizzard is giving 7 free days of game play to folks who have unsubscribed.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/blizzard-giving-7-days-of-free-play-to-lapsed-accounts/

Part four of the Elemental Invasion is live.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=173902

The old forums are going read-only November 17.  Blizzard is opening the new forums.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/official-wow-forums-going-read-only-on-wednesday-new-community/

UPDATE:  Blizzard has released a preview of another new area, Tol Barad.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/blizzard-releases-new-cataclysm-preview-tol-barad/

UPDATE #2: Patch 4.0.3a is up on the public test realm.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/patch-4-0-3a-the-shattering-is-up-on-the-ptr/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Microsoft's Games for Windows Site Opens

First impressions of the Games for Windows website.
http://kotaku.com/5690925/can-microsofts-new-online-store-compete-with-steam

Here is the direct link to Microsoft's new PC game download marketplace.
http://www.gamesforwindows.com/en-US/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Starcraft 2 Pirated Big Time (Part 2 Leaked?)

Starcraft 2 sold 3 million copies the first month it was released (and Blizzard gave away untold copies in Korea).  Now it looks like there over two million copies were pirated through BitTorrent.  Looks like there are more unpaid copies available than ones folks paid for.
http://kotaku.com/5690866/pirates-are-all-over-starcraft-ii

In other Starcraft 2 news, Kotaku has a video that supposedly leaks the ending of next year's Starcraft 2 expansion.
http://kotaku.com/5709838/ending-leaked-for-starcraft-iis-next-chapter

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Diablo 3 on Consoles?

Blizzard is looking for developers with console experience to work on Diablo III.
http://kotaku.com/5690583/blizzard-seeking-diablo-iii-talent-for-console-development

Blizzard's reaction to these reports.
http://www.1up.com/news/diablo-iii-coming-consoles

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Patch 4.0.3 Due Tomorrow, Nov. 16

This is the patch that prepares the game for The Shattering (which will be Patch 4.0.3a which will probably hit Nov. 23).  When this next patch hits tomorrow, the Wintergrasp raid leader won't be able to kick folks from the raid and when in a Dungeon Finder group, going to an instance portal will take you to the Looking for Dungeon entrance, not the normal destination of the portal.  Honorable kills are no longer rewarded for killing players below Level 5.  The rest of the changes are listed here.
http://www.mmo-champion.com/content/2073-Patch-4.0.3-this-week-Tier-11-All-Races-Classes-Preview-MMO-Report-Comics

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

A Review of Lord of the Rings Online in Screenshots

http://picasaweb.google.com/Longascimages/LOTROEnedwaithFreeToPlay#

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

The State of MMOs from a Developer's Perspective

I've got a wonderful article for you tonight in which a developer looks at MMOs and the problems they face from the perspective of a game maker, not a game player. Andrew is Karthias (a terrific writer and former Feral Druid blogger) and DDO is Dungeons and Dragons Online.  DCUO is DC Universe Online.  Read the comments here for more interesting discussion.
http://psychochild.org/?p=1012

Here's the article that the writer is reacting to.
http://biobreak.wordpress.com/2010/11/03/consoles-rule-pcs-drool/

Here is what Karthias says about the current state of MMOs.
http://systemicbabble.com/videogames/mmo-doldrums/

And here is Screaming Monkey's take on it all.
http://screammonkey.wordpress.com/2010/11/05/action-apples-and-rpg-oranges/

Interesting reads especially since I think Blizzard has console envy.   I can see PCs and consoles becoming more and more alike in the Gold Rush that is the melding of television and Internet and gaming and downloaded content like movies.

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Elder Scrolls Nostalgia

Rap music for the Oblivion-deprived.
http://bnbgaming.com/2010/11/10/rapping-a-letter-to-bethesda/

Here's a direct link. Thanks, Dan.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1BW-Yeo6X8&feature=player_embedded

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Interview with Big Bear Butt

Pot interviews BBB about the state of the game and Cataclysm.
http://www.mmomeltingpot.com/2010/11/trade-chats-interview-with-big-bear-butt/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Phase Three of Elemental Invasion Active

New quests have opened up.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=173701

By the way, WOW Head has a guide to these pre-Cataclysm events.
http://www.wowhead.com/guide=cataclysm&prelaunch#twilights-cult-elemental-invasion

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

California Tries to Limit Sales of Violent Video Games

This is the definitive article about the case (now before the U.S. Supreme Court which just heard legal arguments) according to the WOW Insider legal columnist.
http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/6191/video_game_regulation_and_the_.php

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Starcraft 2 Not As Popular in South Korea

Kotaku says Starcraft 2 isn't a big hit in Korea, due to the struggle between Blizzard Activision and e-sports authorities over control and money. That's turned players off on the game.  Edge says a month after Starcraft 2 was released, only 2-3% of Internet cafe gamers were playing the game which Blizzard gave away for free in South Korea.  Here is the short report at Kotaku which summarizes the full Edge story in the second link.
http://kotaku.com/5688166/hey-korea-why-you-so-down-on-starcraft-ii

http://www.next-gen.biz/features/the-battle-for-starcraft-ii?page=0%2C0

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Blizzards Offers A Free Week to Quitters

Blizzard is sending emails to folks who have left the game offering them a free week of play ending December 1.
http://kotaku.com/5687966/blizzard-offering-a-week-of-free-time-to-warcraft-apostates

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

How to Find Cataclysm Instance Entrances

 How to find portal entrances via photos and video, useful for finding the entrances so that they can be listed for queueing in the dungeon finder once Cataclysm hits.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=173564

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Paid Worgen/Goblin Faction Changes Arrive with Cataclysm

Restrictions listed here.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=173512

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

BlizzCon Mini Pets Start to Arrive UPDATED

Deathy the Murloc pet is starting to arrive in the email of folks who subscribed to the BlizzCon Internet stream.
http://www.maniasarcania.com/2010/11/10/blizzcon-2010-mini-pet-code/

UPDATE:  Apparently DirecTv BlizzCon subscribers are starting to get their codes.  I think regular DirecTv subscribers who signed up for the Pay Per View BlizzCon show will get their codes in the mail with their bills.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/10/blizzcon-2010-pets-for-directtv-subscribers-arrive/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

New Dial-In Authenticator UPDATED WITH REVIEW

Blizzard has come up with a third authenticator, the dial up authenticator.  Basically you give Blizzard a phone number.  You choose a pin and when you want to do something unusual, you call from that number, enter the pin number and get an authenticator security code like the ones that works on the smart phones or on the actual authenticator token.  It sounds very clunky to me but here are the details so you can decide for yourself.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=173490

A review.
http://www.isheepthings.com/blog/battle-net-dial-in-authenticator-review/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Interview: Kotick on the Brutal Legend Lawsuit

Joystiq has done an interview with Bobby Kotick about the Brutal Legend lawsuit and his version of events.  The second link is to the actual interview.  The first link is a brief description.
http://www.1up.com/news/bobby-kotick-explains-role-brutal-legal-battle

The second link is to the actual interview.  More is promised but to date (Nov. 9th) there has not been a followup.
http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/activisions-kotick-on-brutal-legend-drama-thats-not-really-w/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Cataclysm Raid Healing Video

Matticus has done a video of PvE raid healing as it is unfolds in the Cataclysm beta.  The video covers the first two bosses in the ten man version of Bastion of Twilight.
http://www.worldofmatticus.com/2010/11/09/video-a-preview-of-cataclysm-raid-healing/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Pre-Lich King Events Compared to Pre-Catclysm Events

A comparison of the pre-Lich King events to what is happening now in Patch 4.0.1.
http://www.thewowconsultant.com/home/2010/11/pre-wotlk-events-vs-pre-cata-events.html#more-436

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Invasion, Raid Markers and Low Level Crafting Profession News

Phase 2 of the Elemental Invasion is proceeding.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/elemental-invasion-phase-2-begins/

Cataclysm beta is changing the raid markers.  The second link has video and says these can be set as ground targets.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/07/cataclylsm-beta-new-raid-markers/

http://www.frostnova.ch/tachyon/blogArticle.do?action=view&topic=New%20Raidmarkers%20in%20Cataclysm

Cataclysm will also apparently no longer allow lower level alts for some crafting professions.  Details here.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/insider-trader-no-more-low-level-crafting-alts/


***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Changes to Combat Resurrection in Cataclysm

Expect to see changes to combat resurrection when Cataclysm hits.  The details (including cool downs and limitations on use) here.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/blizzard-clarifies-combat-resurrections-for-cataclysm/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Acitivision Quarterly Profits for 2010

Revenue for the quarter ending September 30 was $745 million and profit was $51 million.
http://www.1up.com/news/activision-expects-2010-profitable-year

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

All About Crowd Control (By Class)

BBB mentioned this summary article about crowd control and how it is done by class.  Spells and abilities that the various classes use are described with photos with practical applications listed.
http://sharpenyourclaws.blogspot.com/2010/11/so-i-think-it-is-time-for-another.html

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Preview of New Blizzard WOW Community Site

Here's what it will look like.
http://us.battle.net/wow/en/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Get Your Mount Now

Since some mounts will no longer be available in Cataclysm, WOW Insider has done an article about how to get them now.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/the-overachiever-how-to-get-disappearing-mounts/

A guide to all the new Cataclysm mounts.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=176438/cataclysm-mount-guide-lions-drakes-and-camels-oh-my

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Sparkle Pony Has Competition UPDATED

As announced at BlizzCon, Blizzard will start selling moonkin hatchling pets shortly.  Part of the purchase price will go to charity.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/morhaime-says-moonkin-hatchling-available-this-month/

UPDATE:  Blizzard will have two pets for sale but only the moonkin hatchling sales price has a portion going to charity.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/lil-ragnaros-and-moonkin-hatchling-pets-preview/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Rated Battlegrounds and Starting Zone Guards

When Cataclysm hits, all NPC guards in starter zones will be buffed to Level 90 so griefers can't kill them.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/cataclysm-guards-in-starting-zones-buffed-to-level-90/

Blizzard explains Cataclysm's rated battlegrounds.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/rated-battlegrounds-faq/

More about rated battlegrounds.
http://cynwise.wordpress.com/2010/11/12/upcoming-changes-to-rated-battlegrounds/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Running Instances with Twinks

WOW Insider interviews a guild that has a group of low level characters they run instances with for the challenge of it.
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/03/15-minutes-of-fame-pve-twinks-turn-lowbie-instances-devilishly/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

The Greedy Goblin Invents the Wintergrasp Battleground-Kick Addon

Blessings of Kings talks about the Greedy Goblin's latest idea, an addon that kicks folks from Battlegrounds if they aren't contributing.  This works something like the way the raid-kick feature works in dungeon finder and as far as I know, it is for Wintergrasp only.
http://blessingofkings.blogspot.com/2010/11/leechers-and-automatic-group-creation.html

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Region-Wide Battlegroup Matching

Region-wide battlegroup matching continues.  Blizzard probably finds this to their advantage when it comes to server space.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=173021

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Escapist Interviews Ghostcrawler

This BlizzCon interview covers the future of WOW, Cataclysm and the surprising (to Blizzard, not to me) ignorance of players when Patch 4.0.1 hit.
http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/editorials/interviews/8279-BlizzCon-2010-Cataclysm-and-the-Future-of-WoW

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Five New Cataclysm Pet Families (and a Rare Silithid)

Mania's Arcania lists the five new pet families that are coming out in Cataclysm as far as she can find out.
http://www.maniasarcania.com/2010/11/02/90-new-looks-and-counting/

There are new rare silithids that can be tamed, and the boss silithids are also tamable in Cataclysm beta.
http://www.maniasarcania.com/2010/11/03/boss-silithid-follow-up-brain-bugs-for-beast-masters/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Preview of WOW Raiding Documentary

A detailed preview of the almost finished documentary about raiding entitled "The Raid."
http://wow.joystiq.com/2010/11/01/the-raid-movie-documentary-examines-wow-raiding/#continued

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

WOW Head Adds Justice Point Calculator to Tooltip

WOW Head is constantly tinkering with their database.  This time they've added a justice point calculator to their tooltip that tells you how many justice points an item costs and how many boss kills earn that many justice points.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=172892

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

The Raiding Benefits of Professions in Cataclysm

Blacksen takes a look at how the various professions will help the Cataclysm raider.
http://blacksen.com/archives/813

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Shot Priorities Addon for Hunters (DPSCheck)

The author of DPSCheck has updated it for Patch 4.0.1 and explains how it works here.
http://outdps.com/2010/10/29/dpscheck-4-0-1-shot-priorities/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Pre-Cataclysm Events Start (Elemental Invasion)

Information about the Elemental Invasion in remote outposts and several larger cities and the Twilight Cultists quest line is now available.  Start here to get information but note WOW Head says not everything is available yet in the quest line.  All this will probably end when Patch 4.0.3 The Shattering hits.
http://www.wowhead.com/blog=172873

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Day of the Dead Holiday

Welcome to November and the short Day of the Dead event.  There isn't much going on but it is something different for those bored by Patch 4.0.1.  If you are into pets, there's a small skeleton pet that wears a sombrero and carries maracas that vanishes after the holiday is over, and there is one achievement.  The WOW link has the basics with more information in the WOW Head one.
http://www.wow-europe.com/en/info/basics/events/dayofthedead/index.html

http://www.wowhead.com/blog=172882

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com

Demon Dogs, Spirit Wolf and Crabby Ghostcrawlers (Cataclysm)

The Cataclysm beta is introducing more tamable pets.  You'll be able to tame more colors of demon dogs if you want a fanged Chinese Crested following you.  The first link is about the demon dogs; the second shows the Chinese Cresteds they seem to be modeled on.
http://www.maniasarcania.com/2010/10/30/demon-dog-heaven/

http://www.bbc.co.uk/northyorkshire/content/image_galleries/chinese_dogs_gallery.shtml

A new spirit beast has been spotted in Cataclysm.  It's a semi-transparent blue crab called Ghostcrawler.
http://www.maniasarcania.com/2010/11/01/ghostcrawler-the-spirit-beast/

A second new spirit beast is a wolf.
http://www.maniasarcania.com/2010/11/04/karoma-the-wolf-spirit-beast/

***************************
Copyright Solo MMO Player at http://solommo.blogspot.com