Forget the Japanese Invasion of the 1980s, the Japanese Invasion is here ... again in social games. (Seriously, what does every parent call every video game system ever? That damned Nintendo.) Gree, a Japanese company that runs the Gree mobile social games platform, has bought OpenFeint, a company that does exactly the same thing in the US. You've probably seen OpenFeint in hit iPhone games like Angry Birds and Fruit Ninja, meaning this acquisition could result in a little name change. USA Today reports that the purchase was made for a sweet $104 million, and is another step in Gree's plan to create a global social gaming network that expands past its 25 million mobile users. In other words, Zynga better watch its back.
"We are excited that Gree shares our belief in the OpenFeint network and are ecstatic to partner with a renowned global leader to build a multi-billion dollar business," OpenFeint CEO Jason Citron said in a statement. "Together, we will deliver the strongest global ecosystem of gaming networks to our combined 100 million users." And it takes more than one invader to call it an invasion, correct?
This isn't the first time that a Japanese company has bought an American one. DeNa, a rival of Gree's, bought mobile game developer Ngmoco for an insane $403 million just months ago. These companies are throwing down some serious cash for the sake of their mission: global domination--of the social gaming space. Surely Zynga will rise to the challenge, so just grab some fresh popcorn, sit back and watch the fur fly.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Zynga teases FarmVille Love Potion crafting
Players on the FarmVille forums have been complaining about the lack of Love Potions for Sheep Breeding, to which community manager Grimwell responded, "What if you could craft them. Would that help?" While the update certainly didn't surface last night, we now know exactly what Zynga is working on when it comes to new convenience features. Soon, players will be able to craft their own Love Potions in addition to asking their friends every four hours.
Being able to craft our own Love Potions would be a boon, especially considering we'll need them for Pig Breeding. No details have been announced as to how or where exactly the Love Potions will be crafted. Regardless, any news regarding a much-requested feature is good news. Stay tuned for when this update lands, as we'll be all over it.
Being able to craft our own Love Potions would be a boon, especially considering we'll need them for Pig Breeding. No details have been announced as to how or where exactly the Love Potions will be crafted. Regardless, any news regarding a much-requested feature is good news. Stay tuned for when this update lands, as we'll be all over it.
Zynga wields the ban hammer; 6,400 Mafia Wars bot accounts booted
Cheating is a plague that has infected nearly every form of sport or interactive entertainment, and social games are far from immune to its effects. Zynga, doing good by its metrics addiction, has used this information to ban 6,400 accounts and unleash over 1 thousand penalties in Mafia Wars. The crime that spawned the ban spree is botting, or using an automated program to play a game while the player is away.
Just like FarmVille and FrontierVille, there are third-party Facebook apps that promise to "enhance" your experience in Mafia Wars, such as the Rank Hack. Just search for "Mafia Wars mods" on Google and you'll have every cheat you could ever ask for to make the game that much easier. But don't expect to sustain the dishonesty for long--Zynga's eye is aimed directly on cheaters who use these helpful little pieces of software. If you'd like some heavy reading (or loophole finding), check the Zynga Terms of Service Agreement. But don't try anything funny--you have been warned.
[Source and Image Credit: Mafia Wars Blog]
Are you happy to see that Zynga is cracking down on cheaters? Do you think Zynga should do the same in its other games, if it doesn't already?
Just like FarmVille and FrontierVille, there are third-party Facebook apps that promise to "enhance" your experience in Mafia Wars, such as the Rank Hack. Just search for "Mafia Wars mods" on Google and you'll have every cheat you could ever ask for to make the game that much easier. But don't expect to sustain the dishonesty for long--Zynga's eye is aimed directly on cheaters who use these helpful little pieces of software. If you'd like some heavy reading (or loophole finding), check the Zynga Terms of Service Agreement. But don't try anything funny--you have been warned.
[Source and Image Credit: Mafia Wars Blog]
Are you happy to see that Zynga is cracking down on cheaters? Do you think Zynga should do the same in its other games, if it doesn't already?
Wheel of Fortune creator GSN goes green with Earth Day tournament
For the third year in a row, you can help plant trees for Earth Day right from the comfort of your butt-grooved computer chair. GSN Digital, creators of the Wheel of Fortune Facebook game, has teamed up with the Arbor Day Foundation to host its third annual Play, Plant and Protect tournament series starting today, Earth Day, through Arbor Day on April 29.
"We're proud to partner with the Arbor Day Foundation for the third time and build on the nearly $50,000 we've contributed thus far," said Peter Blacklow, executive VP of GSN Digital and president of WorldWinner. "Our special edition Play, Plant and Protect tournaments give our players the chance to give back to a cause we're passionate about – replenishing our nation's forests and protecting our environment."
The tournament will be playable through GSN Digital's cash tournament website, WorldWinner. Starting today, you can play games like Wheel of Fortune, Bejeweled 2 and Family Feud to help replant one of the most desperate forests in the US. Of course, you will have to throw in an entry fee--these are cash tournaments--but every dollar donated goes to planting one tree.
Well, at least 10 percent of it does, while the rest likely goes to the prize pools like Wheel of Fortune's $10 thousand reward. Hey, there has to be some motivation to throw in a few bucks for some tournament play. If you're interested in planting a few trees without even getting your hands dirty, register with WorldWinner right here and have a payment method ready.
"We're proud to partner with the Arbor Day Foundation for the third time and build on the nearly $50,000 we've contributed thus far," said Peter Blacklow, executive VP of GSN Digital and president of WorldWinner. "Our special edition Play, Plant and Protect tournaments give our players the chance to give back to a cause we're passionate about – replenishing our nation's forests and protecting our environment."
The tournament will be playable through GSN Digital's cash tournament website, WorldWinner. Starting today, you can play games like Wheel of Fortune, Bejeweled 2 and Family Feud to help replant one of the most desperate forests in the US. Of course, you will have to throw in an entry fee--these are cash tournaments--but every dollar donated goes to planting one tree.
Well, at least 10 percent of it does, while the rest likely goes to the prize pools like Wheel of Fortune's $10 thousand reward. Hey, there has to be some motivation to throw in a few bucks for some tournament play. If you're interested in planting a few trees without even getting your hands dirty, register with WorldWinner right here and have a payment method ready.
Playdom co-founder to launch divine Facebook game, IdleWorship
IdleWorship
If you hadn't noticed, your FarmVilles and CityVilles are variations on the age-old "god games" of the 1990s like Sim City, Black and White and Civilization. Playdom co-founder Rick Thompson, with his new company Idle Games, is throwing his hat into the ring of god games on Facebook with IdleWorship, its first game set to lunch this June. According to Inside Social Games, the game puts players directly into the role of a god, overseeing the lives of Mudlings, a primitive island community.
Players will be able to create not just buildings and decorations like in most Facebook games, but introduce nature and wildlife into the world. Also, it's up to you, the god, on whether you'll treat your people with grace or ruthless oppression. And whether your a benevolent or begrudging god will affect your people's perception of you and their Belief. Most of the things you introduce to your people will rely on their Belief, the main currency in IdleWorship.
IdleWorship plans to evolve social interaction beyond the friends bar beneath most social games, Inside Social Games reports. Instead, friends and strangers alike will appear nearby, within the game, in a vast ocean of islands controlled by players. However, players' surrounding islands will be populated with gods of similar outlooks--loving gods will be surrounded by more graceful gods while angry gods will have their oceans populated with other evil deities.
It sounds like IdleWorship is about to bring automatic weapons a social gaming arena of swords and arrows, throwing the top developers like Zynga for a spin. However, whether the general audience is ready for such a game won't be seen for months to come. If you're interested in playing right now, you can sign up to become a beta tester right here.
[Image Credit: Idle Games]
Are you excited to play IdleWorship when it releases? How do you think this game will do against the big developers' established games?
If you hadn't noticed, your FarmVilles and CityVilles are variations on the age-old "god games" of the 1990s like Sim City, Black and White and Civilization. Playdom co-founder Rick Thompson, with his new company Idle Games, is throwing his hat into the ring of god games on Facebook with IdleWorship, its first game set to lunch this June. According to Inside Social Games, the game puts players directly into the role of a god, overseeing the lives of Mudlings, a primitive island community.
Players will be able to create not just buildings and decorations like in most Facebook games, but introduce nature and wildlife into the world. Also, it's up to you, the god, on whether you'll treat your people with grace or ruthless oppression. And whether your a benevolent or begrudging god will affect your people's perception of you and their Belief. Most of the things you introduce to your people will rely on their Belief, the main currency in IdleWorship.
IdleWorship plans to evolve social interaction beyond the friends bar beneath most social games, Inside Social Games reports. Instead, friends and strangers alike will appear nearby, within the game, in a vast ocean of islands controlled by players. However, players' surrounding islands will be populated with gods of similar outlooks--loving gods will be surrounded by more graceful gods while angry gods will have their oceans populated with other evil deities.
It sounds like IdleWorship is about to bring automatic weapons a social gaming arena of swords and arrows, throwing the top developers like Zynga for a spin. However, whether the general audience is ready for such a game won't be seen for months to come. If you're interested in playing right now, you can sign up to become a beta tester right here.
[Image Credit: Idle Games]
Are you excited to play IdleWorship when it releases? How do you think this game will do against the big developers' established games?
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Nintendo registers 'Zelda Universe' ESRB rating, what's that all about?
First 'Project Cafe' and now this? Nintendo never ceases to mystify these days. Nintendo continues to practice Apple-like hype skills, as it has registered a game known as 'Zelda Universe' for an ESRB rating, VentureBeat reports. The Legend of Zelda series has been around on Nintendo machines since the NES in the late 1980s. If you didn't know that, it's OK, we'll forgive you--this time. However, a closer look at the details of the registry reveal something interesting.
Nintendo has registered Zelda Universe as an "online game," according to VentureBeat. Every Nintendo game before then has been registered for specific platforms like Wii or 3DS (pictured above), so this leads us to believe that the company is working on one of three things. You call it "wild speculation," we call it fun.
Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword1. A hub for all things Zelda across handheld and mobile consoles
This is probably the most logical. Basically, Nintendo could be creating a RewardVille of sorts for all things Zelda. It would have a website hub (as it kind of already does), but extensions on the upcoming Project Cafe, 3DS and maybe original DS to track your Zelda-related activities and reward you for them.
2. An online massively multiplayer Zelda game, akin to WoW or EverQuest
On Nintendo consoles, of course. This might be a bit of a stretch, but Nintendo has mentioned their desire to do online gaming right. Perhaps the company wants to step into this generation on the right foot. Coming out strong with an MMO surrounding a timeless franchise would certainly be a way to make that happen. Too bad there's only one Link to go around.
3. A Legend of Zelda Facebook game
Come on, did you really think we wouldn't go there? Nintendo has expressed their fears acknowledgment of Zynga's effect on the gaming industry. Could the stubborn mule of the gaming industry (they're just trying to get online right ... think about it) have finally cracked? It's entirely possible, but you better believe that if this is happening, it's going to be from within the Nintendo systems. Hey, there's always Facebook Connect.
[Image Credit: Nintendo]
What are your wild speculations for what this Zelda Universe could be?
Nintendo has registered Zelda Universe as an "online game," according to VentureBeat. Every Nintendo game before then has been registered for specific platforms like Wii or 3DS (pictured above), so this leads us to believe that the company is working on one of three things. You call it "wild speculation," we call it fun.
Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword1. A hub for all things Zelda across handheld and mobile consoles
This is probably the most logical. Basically, Nintendo could be creating a RewardVille of sorts for all things Zelda. It would have a website hub (as it kind of already does), but extensions on the upcoming Project Cafe, 3DS and maybe original DS to track your Zelda-related activities and reward you for them.
2. An online massively multiplayer Zelda game, akin to WoW or EverQuest
On Nintendo consoles, of course. This might be a bit of a stretch, but Nintendo has mentioned their desire to do online gaming right. Perhaps the company wants to step into this generation on the right foot. Coming out strong with an MMO surrounding a timeless franchise would certainly be a way to make that happen. Too bad there's only one Link to go around.
3. A Legend of Zelda Facebook game
Come on, did you really think we wouldn't go there? Nintendo has expressed their fears acknowledgment of Zynga's effect on the gaming industry. Could the stubborn mule of the gaming industry (they're just trying to get online right ... think about it) have finally cracked? It's entirely possible, but you better believe that if this is happening, it's going to be from within the Nintendo systems. Hey, there's always Facebook Connect.
[Image Credit: Nintendo]
What are your wild speculations for what this Zelda Universe could be?
Game of the Day: Word Kingdom
The Game of the Day requires you to spell your way to victory! Word Kingdom: Conquer the WordLand one word at a time. Click the letters and arrange them into words between three to 10 letters. Each correct word is then converted into resources required to build and army and your kingdom, essential elements to creating a thriving fiefdom in WordLand.
Play Word Kingdom on Games.com now >
Important side note: Just by playing The Game of the Day you will be entered into a monthly drawing to win a FlipCam HD. You don't need to do anything else, just play! The more you play, the more chances you have to win. For more information on the Game of Day check out the official Game of the Day hub.
Play Word Kingdom on Games.com now >
Important side note: Just by playing The Game of the Day you will be entered into a monthly drawing to win a FlipCam HD. You don't need to do anything else, just play! The more you play, the more chances you have to win. For more information on the Game of Day check out the official Game of the Day hub.
Study: Men spend more on social games than women
Are men spending the bacon on social games before it even reaches their partner to burn? (Or are men spending the dough before their breadwinner can even get to it?) Either way, something's up. This somewhat surprising finding comes from a study by MocoSpace, a social network for gamers based in Boston, Mass, conducted on their own platform.
So, keep in mind that the numbers behind these demographics are taken from a specific community and don't necessarily speak for social gamers across all platforms. MocoSpace, who studied 1,500 social gamers on their platform, found that men, 53 percent of their player base compared to 47 percent women, outspend women 9 to 1 on social games. But wait, aren't women the majority on social games?
At least on MocoSpace, that's not the case. The study goes on to report 69 percent of men buy virtual goods compared to 31 percent of women. Not to mention that 69 percent of male gamers are responsible for 90 percent of MocoSpace's online transactions. However, men barely spend more time on MocoSpace games--like Street Wars or Stage Hero--than women: just 21 minutes daily on average compared to 18 minutes.
Perhaps that extra three minutes is spent buying stuff, eh? We can't say with 100 percent confidence what this study says about social gamers on the whole, because the study is limited to a single platform. Regardless, it's interesting to see more men becoming engaged in social games at least somewhere. Perhaps the spread between men and women on Facebook games is shrinking as well. Until a study is released regarding that on Facebook games across the board, it's a mere possibility.
[Image Credit: Fox Business]
Fellas, do you spend more money on Facebook games than women you know? Ladies, do you happen to spend more cash on social games than men you know?
So, keep in mind that the numbers behind these demographics are taken from a specific community and don't necessarily speak for social gamers across all platforms. MocoSpace, who studied 1,500 social gamers on their platform, found that men, 53 percent of their player base compared to 47 percent women, outspend women 9 to 1 on social games. But wait, aren't women the majority on social games?
At least on MocoSpace, that's not the case. The study goes on to report 69 percent of men buy virtual goods compared to 31 percent of women. Not to mention that 69 percent of male gamers are responsible for 90 percent of MocoSpace's online transactions. However, men barely spend more time on MocoSpace games--like Street Wars or Stage Hero--than women: just 21 minutes daily on average compared to 18 minutes.
Perhaps that extra three minutes is spent buying stuff, eh? We can't say with 100 percent confidence what this study says about social gamers on the whole, because the study is limited to a single platform. Regardless, it's interesting to see more men becoming engaged in social games at least somewhere. Perhaps the spread between men and women on Facebook games is shrinking as well. Until a study is released regarding that on Facebook games across the board, it's a mere possibility.
[Image Credit: Fox Business]
Fellas, do you spend more money on Facebook games than women you know? Ladies, do you happen to spend more cash on social games than men you know?
Will the CityVille Beach expansion be just a new land plot (who knows)?
Unfortunately, that's what Edgar's recent words in CityVille suggest. The first hint of the CityVIlle Beach expansion, released earlier this week, had something more to say after all. Clicking on Edgar as he hangs on the helicopter will cause him to speak up, revealing a bit more information as to what's going on. "This land looks ripe for development," Edgar says. "All we need is a bridge ... increase Population to 5,000 to be prepared."
So, now we know that the Bridge will be some type of build-able item--most likely a Community Building that requires Population levels to be high enough. Because this bridge will almost certainly have to lead somewhere on the existing map. That means this new feature could just lead to another place to expand your existing city.
However, it could easily just be a way to enter a new, second city--like the Airship in FarmVille English Countryside. That's the beauty of speculation, the possibilities are endless. We'll have more "real" details as soon as they're released.
[Image Credit: ajaykd]
What do you think the CityVille Beach expansion will turn out to be? Are you satisfied with how Zynga is handling the info leaks?
So, now we know that the Bridge will be some type of build-able item--most likely a Community Building that requires Population levels to be high enough. Because this bridge will almost certainly have to lead somewhere on the existing map. That means this new feature could just lead to another place to expand your existing city.
However, it could easily just be a way to enter a new, second city--like the Airship in FarmVille English Countryside. That's the beauty of speculation, the possibilities are endless. We'll have more "real" details as soon as they're released.
[Image Credit: ajaykd]
What do you think the CityVille Beach expansion will turn out to be? Are you satisfied with how Zynga is handling the info leaks?
FarmVille GagaVille(?) Sneak Peek: Bedazzled Cottage is poppin'
She just couldn't resist, could she? It appears Lady Gaga couldn't leave FarmVille without bedazzling or Bejeweling (get it?) perhaps one last thing. Luckily for us, it's a Bedazzled Cottage, a multi-tiered decorative building that FarmVille Feed found. Details on how this new building is acquired or when it will be released are nowhere to be found at this point. (Not that we are at least aware of some the required building materials--check the icons.)And it's possible that it's not even related to GagaVille (we all just miss her so, so much). Either way, let's look forward to the 1980s coming to FarmVille very, very soon.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Feed]
Are you excited for Lady Gaga's true, final (we hope) hurrah? Will you miss Gaga when goes goodbye?
[Image Credit: FarmVille Feed]
Are you excited for Lady Gaga's true, final (we hope) hurrah? Will you miss Gaga when goes goodbye?
Friday, December 23, 2011
The Angry Birds movie is real, not coming until 2014 ... at least
According to former Marvel Studios chairman David Maisel, the Angry Birds movie is, in fact, happening. In an interview with Variety, Maisel revealed that franchise creator Rovio has hired him on a adviser and said, "There has been so much chatter about an Angry Birds movie, but now it's real. The process is starting now."
Rovio's recent purchase, a Finnish animation studio known as Kombo, will man the project. But first, the studio will create several short films starring the irate avian creatures that will act as foundation for the feature film.
And, according to Variety, Rovio has been clear in its intent to become the next Pixar. However, Rovio and Maisel don't expect the flick to release before 2014, according to The Telegraph.
This all begs the question: Will Angry Birds even be relevant three years from now? We've already seen mobile gaming (and Facebook game) hits come and go--Zynga pushes its own games out of the limelight regularly. While Rovio invests far more in expanding its brand, we're just wary of whether the company can sustain the fandom for another 1,095 days ... at least.
Rovio's recent purchase, a Finnish animation studio known as Kombo, will man the project. But first, the studio will create several short films starring the irate avian creatures that will act as foundation for the feature film.
And, according to Variety, Rovio has been clear in its intent to become the next Pixar. However, Rovio and Maisel don't expect the flick to release before 2014, according to The Telegraph.
This all begs the question: Will Angry Birds even be relevant three years from now? We've already seen mobile gaming (and Facebook game) hits come and go--Zynga pushes its own games out of the limelight regularly. While Rovio invests far more in expanding its brand, we're just wary of whether the company can sustain the fandom for another 1,095 days ... at least.
WildTangent grows from bloatware to social games platform
Remember that weird application that you've had to remove from every PC you've owned. That annoying purple "W" is known as WildTangent, a casual games service that is tacked onto 85 percent of PCs today that has just entered the social games space.
AllThingsD reports the top five online gaming platform has added Facebook-connected social games to its repertoire. In fact, the company has signed on some pretty big games in the biz, namely CrowdStar's It Girl.
According to AllThingsD, the website brings in 20 million players monthly, which is certainly impressive for a competitor. That is, if you would consider 20 million against 250 million competition.
That sounds like a burn, but its simply a sad reality of the social games scene. AllThingsD ponders whether WildTangent, or better yet Google+, will become competitors to Facebook's game platform.
It Girl on WildTangent
Though, we're forgetting how Facebook has tightened the reigns on developers, forcing them to price match virtual goods to Facebook Credits in other platforms so as to keep them around. While there's all the more reason to leave Facebook for some developers, some developers like Zynga has all the more reason to stick around.
Until a competitor swoops in and saves the day, social games are dependent on Facebook more than ever. But in order for another platform to thrive until the point of becoming a worthy opponent for Facebook, they must amass users. It's an ugly, unforgiving cycle you've created, Facebook.
[Image Credits: WildTangent]
Do you think WildTangent will rise to the call for another social games platform? Is it even possible for a competitor to, well, compete at this point?
AllThingsD reports the top five online gaming platform has added Facebook-connected social games to its repertoire. In fact, the company has signed on some pretty big games in the biz, namely CrowdStar's It Girl.
According to AllThingsD, the website brings in 20 million players monthly, which is certainly impressive for a competitor. That is, if you would consider 20 million against 250 million competition.
That sounds like a burn, but its simply a sad reality of the social games scene. AllThingsD ponders whether WildTangent, or better yet Google+, will become competitors to Facebook's game platform.
It Girl on WildTangent
Though, we're forgetting how Facebook has tightened the reigns on developers, forcing them to price match virtual goods to Facebook Credits in other platforms so as to keep them around. While there's all the more reason to leave Facebook for some developers, some developers like Zynga has all the more reason to stick around.
Until a competitor swoops in and saves the day, social games are dependent on Facebook more than ever. But in order for another platform to thrive until the point of becoming a worthy opponent for Facebook, they must amass users. It's an ugly, unforgiving cycle you've created, Facebook.
[Image Credits: WildTangent]
Do you think WildTangent will rise to the call for another social games platform? Is it even possible for a competitor to, well, compete at this point?
Bejeweled Blitz Cat's Eye Gems blow up in Facebook Credits from Walmart
C'mon, everyone loves laser-eyed cats and cheap shopping, so PopCap's deal with Walmart should go hand-in-hand for most Bejeweled Blitz nuts.
If you buy a Facebook Credits gift card from Walmart and redeem it between today and Aug. 2, you'll receive a free Cat's Eye Gem in the game to blast unsuspecting gems with.
The promotion doesn't seem to require any particular value in Facebook Credits, and the Walmart gift cards are available in $10, $15 and $25 increments. To put this deal into perspective, 100 Facebook Credits--or $10 worth--can net you 540 thousand Coins.
That's enough Boosts to last you, well, probably forever considering you earn Coins for every match you play. And with a deadly-yet-adorable Cat's Eye, you're sure to be on your way to some seriously explosive Bejeweled scores.
If you buy a Facebook Credits gift card from Walmart and redeem it between today and Aug. 2, you'll receive a free Cat's Eye Gem in the game to blast unsuspecting gems with.
The promotion doesn't seem to require any particular value in Facebook Credits, and the Walmart gift cards are available in $10, $15 and $25 increments. To put this deal into perspective, 100 Facebook Credits--or $10 worth--can net you 540 thousand Coins.
That's enough Boosts to last you, well, probably forever considering you earn Coins for every match you play. And with a deadly-yet-adorable Cat's Eye, you're sure to be on your way to some seriously explosive Bejeweled scores.
Trivia with Facebook Friends for iPhone: Fun with personal privacy
Trivia with Facebook Friends, not to be confused with Zynga's Words with Friends or other 'with Friends' games, has arrived in the AppStore today. The new trivia game for iOS is designed to test just how well you know your friends (or 'friends') on the world's most popular social network. While this isn't the most original idea, the Los Angeles-based creator Mention Mobile does a fine job of harnessing all of those personal, yet still very public, tidbits from your pals and turning it into an amusing way to pass the time.
Start the game, connect it to your Facebook account and then answer a series of questions about your Facebook brethren, which include birthdays, hometowns, dating and marital info and details on recent Facebook activity. Most of the questions I encountered during a quick five-minute play-through included a combination of these factoids. These are mixed in with additional timed puzzles where you have to identify people's profile pics or order a list of friends from youngest to oldest.
Every players starts Trivia with Facebook Friends with five lives, which are lost when a question is answered incorrectly. Once your lives are gone, it's game over. Much like a classic video game, you can earn extra lives by answering bonus questions or just wait a few hours for them to replenish. Trivia overachievers have to option to buy additional lives for a small transaction, or if you don't want to deal with this limitation, you can pay $10 for eternal lives (as well as the ad-free version of the game). It's also worth pointing out that there is a free, ad-supported version of this game, or an ad-free version for $0.99.
Gallery: Trivia with Facebook Friends for iOS
There is one strange side effect to playing Trivia with Facebook friends. While the game is well crafted and entertaining, it's still shocking to see just how much personal information that people (including myself) put out there without realizing how many others can see it. Considering probably a handful of the 900 people I am Facebook friends with are actually people I consider close friends -- most others are colleagues or business contacts -- it proved to be an eye-opening experience. Guess I'll have to come to terms with the ever-changing definition of personal privacy or, do the unlikely, opt out of the big social media experiment that Facebook, Twitter and the like that has quickly become an integral part of many people's every day lives.
Start the game, connect it to your Facebook account and then answer a series of questions about your Facebook brethren, which include birthdays, hometowns, dating and marital info and details on recent Facebook activity. Most of the questions I encountered during a quick five-minute play-through included a combination of these factoids. These are mixed in with additional timed puzzles where you have to identify people's profile pics or order a list of friends from youngest to oldest.
Every players starts Trivia with Facebook Friends with five lives, which are lost when a question is answered incorrectly. Once your lives are gone, it's game over. Much like a classic video game, you can earn extra lives by answering bonus questions or just wait a few hours for them to replenish. Trivia overachievers have to option to buy additional lives for a small transaction, or if you don't want to deal with this limitation, you can pay $10 for eternal lives (as well as the ad-free version of the game). It's also worth pointing out that there is a free, ad-supported version of this game, or an ad-free version for $0.99.
Gallery: Trivia with Facebook Friends for iOS
There is one strange side effect to playing Trivia with Facebook friends. While the game is well crafted and entertaining, it's still shocking to see just how much personal information that people (including myself) put out there without realizing how many others can see it. Considering probably a handful of the 900 people I am Facebook friends with are actually people I consider close friends -- most others are colleagues or business contacts -- it proved to be an eye-opening experience. Guess I'll have to come to terms with the ever-changing definition of personal privacy or, do the unlikely, opt out of the big social media experiment that Facebook, Twitter and the like that has quickly become an integral part of many people's every day lives.
Mystery buyer purchases sinking startup Ohai
An unnamed buyer has reportedly paid "a relatively low price" for social game startup Ohai, according to VentureBeat. Ohai, which has been shopping around for buyers for quite some time according to an unnamed source, were established in 2008 by Susan Wu. A former venture capitalist and competitive gamer, Wu formed the company in 2008 with many game industry veterans including Scott Hartsman and Don Neufeld, and Blake Commagere (noted developer of the popular early social game Vampires).
Ohai had early promise as an social game startup. TechCrunch referred to their "superstar team" in early 2009, and CEO Susan Wu has been present on multiple "best of" lists including Most Creative People 2010. Ohai had the advantage of using the existing successful social game brand, Vampires, and built their Flash MMOG City of Eternals based on its IP. Prior to its launch, co-founder and VP Production Scott Hartsman and Blake Commagere (CTO) left the company after working with Ohai less than one year. The game launched without them to early promise yet little followthrough.
According to AppData, City of Eternals never reached 1,000 daily active players. The game did end up launching on its own standalone destination site, but never made waves in the social game space. Ohai began work on another title, Unicorn Parade, a clunky Facebook game that has soft released but currently has less than 1,000 monthly active players and feels unpolished and not ready for primetime. Susan Wu is now no longer CEO and has been replaced by Rex Ishibashi, former Ohai board member.
With a history like this, we're not sure what this mystery buyer is hoping to get from Ohai. It could be the acquisition of in-house developed technology. It could be an inexpensive talent acquisition, though the majority of Ohai's talent has since moved on to other things. Blake Commagere has been working on his own stealth startup, and Scott Hartsman left with much of his former team to run the development at Trion Worlds (publisher and developer of the game Rift).
Ohai had early promise as an social game startup. TechCrunch referred to their "superstar team" in early 2009, and CEO Susan Wu has been present on multiple "best of" lists including Most Creative People 2010. Ohai had the advantage of using the existing successful social game brand, Vampires, and built their Flash MMOG City of Eternals based on its IP. Prior to its launch, co-founder and VP Production Scott Hartsman and Blake Commagere (CTO) left the company after working with Ohai less than one year. The game launched without them to early promise yet little followthrough.
According to AppData, City of Eternals never reached 1,000 daily active players. The game did end up launching on its own standalone destination site, but never made waves in the social game space. Ohai began work on another title, Unicorn Parade, a clunky Facebook game that has soft released but currently has less than 1,000 monthly active players and feels unpolished and not ready for primetime. Susan Wu is now no longer CEO and has been replaced by Rex Ishibashi, former Ohai board member.
With a history like this, we're not sure what this mystery buyer is hoping to get from Ohai. It could be the acquisition of in-house developed technology. It could be an inexpensive talent acquisition, though the majority of Ohai's talent has since moved on to other things. Blake Commagere has been working on his own stealth startup, and Scott Hartsman left with much of his former team to run the development at Trion Worlds (publisher and developer of the game Rift).
FarmVille makes more cash than ever with half the players, what gives?
In the first quarter of this year ending March 2011, Zynga generated about $235 million in revenue. Compared to last year's 89 million players, FarmVille has half the monthly players at 39 million. So, how did the game end up making more money than ever with half of its player base? According to VentureBeat, it's all about the content, baby.
Zynga released more content to FarmVille this year than ever before, with a full-blown expansion in English Countryside and more updates than you can shake a strawberry at. It's said that only 1 to 3 percent of social gamers pay, so either FarmVille's coveted 1 to 3 percent has been there all along, or the company has raked in new paying players with flashy content.
Considering the back lashing we read on the forums daily, we'll go with the latter. And this 1 to 3 percent of FarmVille players doesn't even need to pay that much for Zynga to make some serious dough.
According to VentureBeat's math, players only need to put up $10.67 to $31.66 USD to have filled Zynga's immense pockets. In comparison, over 11 million nerds fork up about $15 every month to play World of Warcraft. That says nothing else about Zynga's 1 percent other than it is massive in comparison to the competition.
For Zynga, the best way to generate increased revenue is simple: introduce more free and paid content, and fast. And not every game makes money. Treasure Isle, for instance, is reported to make little money by Zynga in its IPO paperwork. And according to VentureBeat, paying gamers stick around for 10 to 25 months. So, if Zynga hopes to keep making more dough, perhaps we can expect the next big FarmVille expansion to launch before next January.
Are you a paying FarmVille player? How do you think Zynga entices players to pay, and have you ever considered paying up for virtual goods?
Zynga released more content to FarmVille this year than ever before, with a full-blown expansion in English Countryside and more updates than you can shake a strawberry at. It's said that only 1 to 3 percent of social gamers pay, so either FarmVille's coveted 1 to 3 percent has been there all along, or the company has raked in new paying players with flashy content.
Considering the back lashing we read on the forums daily, we'll go with the latter. And this 1 to 3 percent of FarmVille players doesn't even need to pay that much for Zynga to make some serious dough.
According to VentureBeat's math, players only need to put up $10.67 to $31.66 USD to have filled Zynga's immense pockets. In comparison, over 11 million nerds fork up about $15 every month to play World of Warcraft. That says nothing else about Zynga's 1 percent other than it is massive in comparison to the competition.
For Zynga, the best way to generate increased revenue is simple: introduce more free and paid content, and fast. And not every game makes money. Treasure Isle, for instance, is reported to make little money by Zynga in its IPO paperwork. And according to VentureBeat, paying gamers stick around for 10 to 25 months. So, if Zynga hopes to keep making more dough, perhaps we can expect the next big FarmVille expansion to launch before next January.
Are you a paying FarmVille player? How do you think Zynga entices players to pay, and have you ever considered paying up for virtual goods?
Rumor: Google to charge game developers 20 percent, undercut Facebook
Hey man, this is business. Gamezebo reports, citing three unnamed sources, that Google plans to take just a 20 percent cut from game developers' micro-transaction offerings through the upcoming Google+ network.
As you might already know, Facebook charges its game developers 30 percent of all virtual goods purchases. In other words, smooth moves, Google ... sort of.
But while a tinier fee will certainly be appealing to many a developer from the get-go, what about those little things we call players? Ah yes, this will remain the ultimate hurdle for any new social games platform to surmount. Social game developers, in response to Google's rumored undercutting, will have to make a choice between more money now or more money later.
Because, let's face it: Google Games might offer more money for developers from the start, but it'll need the massive player base from then on to match the type of money creators can potentially make on Facebook.
Not to mention that existing developers like Zynga and Playfish won't exactly be too keen on hurrying over to Google+, forcing their existing player base to adapt to a brand new network. A network that doesn't use Facebook Connect. Smooth moves, yes, but perhaps not smooth enough.
[Image Credit: Google]
Will Google+ Games be able to compete with Facebook, if this is true? Do you see Google Games becoming an ideal alternative to Facebook games?
As you might already know, Facebook charges its game developers 30 percent of all virtual goods purchases. In other words, smooth moves, Google ... sort of.
But while a tinier fee will certainly be appealing to many a developer from the get-go, what about those little things we call players? Ah yes, this will remain the ultimate hurdle for any new social games platform to surmount. Social game developers, in response to Google's rumored undercutting, will have to make a choice between more money now or more money later.
Because, let's face it: Google Games might offer more money for developers from the start, but it'll need the massive player base from then on to match the type of money creators can potentially make on Facebook.
Not to mention that existing developers like Zynga and Playfish won't exactly be too keen on hurrying over to Google+, forcing their existing player base to adapt to a brand new network. A network that doesn't use Facebook Connect. Smooth moves, yes, but perhaps not smooth enough.
[Image Credit: Google]
Will Google+ Games be able to compete with Facebook, if this is true? Do you see Google Games becoming an ideal alternative to Facebook games?
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Pioneer Trail Cheats and Tips: Where them thar Hidden Missions at?
Shoooot, so we finally found them Hidden Mission locations. Goodie, 'cause I been hankerin' for some more challenges! (Alright, I'm done. How did they keep up that accent back in the day?) The Pioneer Trail in FrontierVille (sort of) is an adventure filled with all sorts of secrets to keep you playing over and over again.
The Hidden Missions appear after certain Goals are completed, and on specific areas on each map, though they may change position with each playthrough. However, we're here to ruin the adventure make sure you hit every single piece of content made available to you with this guide for where and how to find every Hidden Mission in the game, thanks to CE Gamers. Enjoy being spoiled immensely:
Beaver Valley
Case of the Curious Torticoon
Must complete Travails of a Travellin' Trader Goal
Appears over a Torticoon (usually near the first river)
Blackberry Pickin'
Must complete Travails of a Travellin' Trader Goal
Appears over a Blackberry Bush (usually seen up north on the map)
Beavery Valley Hidden Mission
Purdy Purdy Pignuts
Must complete Blazin' Campfire Goal
Appears over an Owl Tree (usually found past the first bridge)
Missin Home
Must complete Dysentery Danger! Goal
Appears over a Wild Lupine (Plains grass with purple flowers)
Turkeys Gone Wild
Must complete Who Wants Gumbo Stew Goal
Appears over a Turkey (use your Hunter to make one appear)
Who Wants Pie
Must complete Dysentery Danger! Goal
Appears over a Pecan Tree (found clustered near rocks and other trees)
Lost Lil' Bucky
Must complete Dysentery Danger! Goal
Appears over a "Baby" Beaver by the river (likely appears near the second river)
High PlainsHigh Plains
Wild Rice and Persimmon Puddin'
Must complete Pickin' Up The Pieces Goal
Appears over a Persimmon Tree (trees with orange fruits)
Prairie Doggin'
Must complete Pickin' up the Pieces Goal
Appears over a Prairie Dog Burrow (appear as half-submerged and very angry)
Stocking the Root Cellar
Must complete Giant Raging Inferno
Appears over Wild Rice (appears as yellow stalks on the Trail)
Stockin Up The McBaggins Homestead
Must complete the McBaggins Well
Appears over a Lavender (look somewhat like Wild Lupine from Beaver Valley)
Gifts for Back Home
Must complete Giant Ragin' Inferno
Appears over a Wild Strawberry (think Blackberry Bushes with red berries)
Skunkadillo Rumors
Must complete Not the Sheep Pa! Goal
Appears over a Skunkadillo (could you really mess a black and white, shelled skunk?)
Avalanche PassAvalanche Pass
Gonner Pass Dinner Party
Must complete Avalanche! Goal
Appears over a Red Trillium (a small, almost poinsettia-like flower)
Apple Squeezins
Must Complete Busted Wagon Goal
Appears over a Crab Apple Tree (grow near other trees, stand out easily)
Missin' Home
Must complete Fixin' The Storm Shelter Goal
Appears over a Blueberry Bush (Blackberry Bushes with, again, another different color)
Missing Lynx
Must complete Build a Plunger Goal
Appears over a Snowy Rock
What Big Feet You Have
Must complete Trail Feast Goal
Appears over the Manzanita (short, almost bonsai-like, green-leafed tree)
Check out the rest of our FrontierVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Now that you know where every Hidden Mission is in the game, are you ready to take them head on? Did we spoil any big surprises for you?
The Hidden Missions appear after certain Goals are completed, and on specific areas on each map, though they may change position with each playthrough. However, we're here to ruin the adventure make sure you hit every single piece of content made available to you with this guide for where and how to find every Hidden Mission in the game, thanks to CE Gamers. Enjoy being spoiled immensely:
Beaver Valley
Case of the Curious Torticoon
Must complete Travails of a Travellin' Trader Goal
Appears over a Torticoon (usually near the first river)
Blackberry Pickin'
Must complete Travails of a Travellin' Trader Goal
Appears over a Blackberry Bush (usually seen up north on the map)
Beavery Valley Hidden Mission
Purdy Purdy Pignuts
Must complete Blazin' Campfire Goal
Appears over an Owl Tree (usually found past the first bridge)
Missin Home
Must complete Dysentery Danger! Goal
Appears over a Wild Lupine (Plains grass with purple flowers)
Turkeys Gone Wild
Must complete Who Wants Gumbo Stew Goal
Appears over a Turkey (use your Hunter to make one appear)
Who Wants Pie
Must complete Dysentery Danger! Goal
Appears over a Pecan Tree (found clustered near rocks and other trees)
Lost Lil' Bucky
Must complete Dysentery Danger! Goal
Appears over a "Baby" Beaver by the river (likely appears near the second river)
High PlainsHigh Plains
Wild Rice and Persimmon Puddin'
Must complete Pickin' Up The Pieces Goal
Appears over a Persimmon Tree (trees with orange fruits)
Prairie Doggin'
Must complete Pickin' up the Pieces Goal
Appears over a Prairie Dog Burrow (appear as half-submerged and very angry)
Stocking the Root Cellar
Must complete Giant Raging Inferno
Appears over Wild Rice (appears as yellow stalks on the Trail)
Stockin Up The McBaggins Homestead
Must complete the McBaggins Well
Appears over a Lavender (look somewhat like Wild Lupine from Beaver Valley)
Gifts for Back Home
Must complete Giant Ragin' Inferno
Appears over a Wild Strawberry (think Blackberry Bushes with red berries)
Skunkadillo Rumors
Must complete Not the Sheep Pa! Goal
Appears over a Skunkadillo (could you really mess a black and white, shelled skunk?)
Avalanche PassAvalanche Pass
Gonner Pass Dinner Party
Must complete Avalanche! Goal
Appears over a Red Trillium (a small, almost poinsettia-like flower)
Apple Squeezins
Must Complete Busted Wagon Goal
Appears over a Crab Apple Tree (grow near other trees, stand out easily)
Missin' Home
Must complete Fixin' The Storm Shelter Goal
Appears over a Blueberry Bush (Blackberry Bushes with, again, another different color)
Missing Lynx
Must complete Build a Plunger Goal
Appears over a Snowy Rock
What Big Feet You Have
Must complete Trail Feast Goal
Appears over the Manzanita (short, almost bonsai-like, green-leafed tree)
Check out the rest of our FrontierVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Now that you know where every Hidden Mission is in the game, are you ready to take them head on? Did we spoil any big surprises for you?
Game of the Day: Fade
fade game of the day
You've lived your whole life as a color blind llama, but today will be the day you see in color. Destined to enjoy the vibrant world, the faithful llama takes off, running and jumping over cliffs and obstacles. The faster the llama runs, the more colors you can see!
Seeing in color isn't easy for a color blind llama. You'll have to upgrade your acceleration, jump height, and more, to achieve the top speed required. But as you'll soon find it was all worth it. After seeing the beauty of the llama's world, you'll never want to live in the dark again.
Click here to play Fade!
fade game of the day fade game of the day
Pro Tips:
Don't give up early. It takes a while to get enough points for upgrades at first, but once you have a few, the game really takes off.
Focus on purchasing a couple of acceleration upgrades first, that way you'll be able to get further faster, netting you more points to spend.
Once you unlock double jump, use it sparingly as a tool of last resort. If you only use it when absolutely necessary, you should be able to fill the world with color in no time.
Click here to play Fade!
What do you think of Fade? Where you able to fill the llama's world with color?
You've lived your whole life as a color blind llama, but today will be the day you see in color. Destined to enjoy the vibrant world, the faithful llama takes off, running and jumping over cliffs and obstacles. The faster the llama runs, the more colors you can see!
Seeing in color isn't easy for a color blind llama. You'll have to upgrade your acceleration, jump height, and more, to achieve the top speed required. But as you'll soon find it was all worth it. After seeing the beauty of the llama's world, you'll never want to live in the dark again.
Click here to play Fade!
fade game of the day fade game of the day
Pro Tips:
Don't give up early. It takes a while to get enough points for upgrades at first, but once you have a few, the game really takes off.
Focus on purchasing a couple of acceleration upgrades first, that way you'll be able to get further faster, netting you more points to spend.
Once you unlock double jump, use it sparingly as a tool of last resort. If you only use it when absolutely necessary, you should be able to fill the world with color in no time.
Click here to play Fade!
What do you think of Fade? Where you able to fill the llama's world with color?
The Sims Social, Gamescom's 'Best Browser Game,' lives on Facebook
While EA and Playfish London have officially set The Sims Social live at this year's Gamescom (with a show award, to boot), we're going with "lives," because the game technically already lived. Alas, despite a shoddy launch and some unfortunate down time, this gem of a Facebook game has launched to nearly 5 million players. Even counting since its downtime (and "open beta" issues), The Sims Social has grown exponentially in the past week, gaining about a whopping 3 million players in that time, according to AppData.
I'd hate to speak too soon (no I don't), but these look a lot like Zynga numbers. Could the big red bull dog have finally met its match, the biggest casual gaming brand long before FarmVille? It's quite possible, especially considering what players say the game could imply for the future of the genre.
"When we created The Sims Social, it was important for us to incorporate the deep gameplay nuances The Sims Studio has perfected and leverage what Playfish does best – develop compelling, cutting-edge social-gaming experiences," Playfish London GM John Earner said in a statement. And based on these explosive numbers, it looks like the players might agree. If The Sims Social keeps growing at this rate, it could catch up with Zynga's top games in a few months.
Gallery: The Sims Social on Facebook
The game already has branded partnerships with companies like Dunkin' Donuts, so it's clear how serious EA is about this game. Between what seems to be a hit on Facebook and a hit machine in the bag for possibly $1.3 million, maybe the Madden guys can hang with the FarmVillers, after all.
Click here to play The Sims Social on Facebook Now >
Are you part of The Sims Social yet? Do you think this game has a chance at competing on Zynga levels?
I'd hate to speak too soon (no I don't), but these look a lot like Zynga numbers. Could the big red bull dog have finally met its match, the biggest casual gaming brand long before FarmVille? It's quite possible, especially considering what players say the game could imply for the future of the genre.
"When we created The Sims Social, it was important for us to incorporate the deep gameplay nuances The Sims Studio has perfected and leverage what Playfish does best – develop compelling, cutting-edge social-gaming experiences," Playfish London GM John Earner said in a statement. And based on these explosive numbers, it looks like the players might agree. If The Sims Social keeps growing at this rate, it could catch up with Zynga's top games in a few months.
Gallery: The Sims Social on Facebook
The game already has branded partnerships with companies like Dunkin' Donuts, so it's clear how serious EA is about this game. Between what seems to be a hit on Facebook and a hit machine in the bag for possibly $1.3 million, maybe the Madden guys can hang with the FarmVillers, after all.
Click here to play The Sims Social on Facebook Now >
Are you part of The Sims Social yet? Do you think this game has a chance at competing on Zynga levels?
PopCap study: Play games with your kids, they'll be better for it
Man, there's nothing like a feel-good study to cheer you up on a Friday. PopCap Games, creator of Bejeweled and Zuma Blitz for Facebook, has helped in a study by Goldsmiths University that finds some comforting results for gamer parents, at least. According to the study, one in five parents said that playing computer games has helped their children develop a better understanding of technology.
While the organization does not reveal the exact number of participants, it goes on to report on findings that a third of parents believe gaming has increased their kids' concentration and that 53 percent believe that casual video games have improved their kids' problem solving skills. And the kids want more, apparently, as 27 percent of parents reported that their children attempt to borrow their smartphones to play casual games on.
"These findings are important because they highlight the social benefits of playing videogames," said Dr Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Reader in Psychology at Goldsmiths in a release. "Previous research has tended to look only at the individual effects of video games, but in the era of social networking games appear to play a vital role in enhancing social relationships. The fact that both parents and grandparents are using games to connect with their children and grandchildren, and quite successfully, suggests that video games can improve social skills and make a key contribution to both effective parenting and child development."
Well, there's your educated, scientific opinion, so take it or leave it. Keep in mind, however, this survey comes from the help of a company that may have interest in this particular market (with all due respect, of course). For those of you who hand the toddler the iPad or the Wii remote every once in a while, more power to ya. (Besides, a two-year-old with an iPad is YouTube gold.)
Have you ever played video games with your kids? What effects do you think playing with your kid could have on his or her development?
While the organization does not reveal the exact number of participants, it goes on to report on findings that a third of parents believe gaming has increased their kids' concentration and that 53 percent believe that casual video games have improved their kids' problem solving skills. And the kids want more, apparently, as 27 percent of parents reported that their children attempt to borrow their smartphones to play casual games on.
"These findings are important because they highlight the social benefits of playing videogames," said Dr Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Reader in Psychology at Goldsmiths in a release. "Previous research has tended to look only at the individual effects of video games, but in the era of social networking games appear to play a vital role in enhancing social relationships. The fact that both parents and grandparents are using games to connect with their children and grandchildren, and quite successfully, suggests that video games can improve social skills and make a key contribution to both effective parenting and child development."
Well, there's your educated, scientific opinion, so take it or leave it. Keep in mind, however, this survey comes from the help of a company that may have interest in this particular market (with all due respect, of course). For those of you who hand the toddler the iPad or the Wii remote every once in a while, more power to ya. (Besides, a two-year-old with an iPad is YouTube gold.)
Have you ever played video games with your kids? What effects do you think playing with your kid could have on his or her development?
FarmVille Sneak Peek: 'FarmVille Friends,' or global matchmaking
You gotta' love the cute names given to features like these, though "global matchmaking" doesn't exactly roll off the tongue. Zynga announced recently through a FarmVille loading screen that a feature known as "FarmVille Friends" is coming to the game.
What it means is that, soon, you will be able to visit, help and be visited by FarmVille players regardless of whether you're Facebook friends with them. This intriguing feature was actually announced already with the debut of The Pioneer Trail, as it will soon arrive there, too.
This essentially opens up your pool of friends almost infinitely, meaning getting things done will take a fraction of the time. However, we just hope Zynga finds a way to handle the massive increase in game requests moving across Facebook. Color us excited for such a feat, but prepare for what should be a beautiful launch.
FarmVille Friends loading screen
[Source and Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
Are you excited for this upcoming feature? How do you think it will affect your gameplay?
What it means is that, soon, you will be able to visit, help and be visited by FarmVille players regardless of whether you're Facebook friends with them. This intriguing feature was actually announced already with the debut of The Pioneer Trail, as it will soon arrive there, too.
This essentially opens up your pool of friends almost infinitely, meaning getting things done will take a fraction of the time. However, we just hope Zynga finds a way to handle the massive increase in game requests moving across Facebook. Color us excited for such a feat, but prepare for what should be a beautiful launch.
FarmVille Friends loading screen
[Source and Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
Are you excited for this upcoming feature? How do you think it will affect your gameplay?
Angry Birds worth at least as much as FarmVille, Rovio exec says
The Mighty Eagle has dollar signs in its eyes, as Rovio chief marketing officer Peter Vesterbacka said recently to Finnish magazine Kauppalehti Optio that his company is worth several billion dollars, MSNBC reports. And by, "several million," Vesterbacka means somewhere in the FarmVille range--he noted to estimates that Zynga was worth $20 to $25 billion (which sounds a bit inaccurate to me)--according to MSNBC.
But Bloomberg recently reported that the Angry Birds creator was worth at least $1.2 billion, and this valuation would mean Rovio is 100 percent viable to compete with Zynga. I've never read it being discussed seriously, the two being competitors, but perhaps those talks will start now. Rovio could be the second major company of the new age of publishers to combat the first. (And here we thought the birds were looking to get bought.) Rovio is looking for 1 billion users, and fast. Perhaps Zynga was more of a motivation to the birds than previously imagined.
"We are not selling though - unless somebody offers enough," Vesterbacka was quoted saying in the interview published on Thursday, according to MSNBC. The exec went on to say that Rovio plans to list on the New York stock market within three years. If Rovio can enter new territory with the Angry Birds and take full advantage of the freemium model, then there is no reason it can't be a viable competitor to Zynga.
The more Rovio attempts to introduce the Angry Birds to new media (and sources of revenue), the further it will inch toward defeating Zygna, which only is within a single, though massive market. What I'm getting at is to warn you that there is more swiping and harvesting in your gaming future where the first three years of it came from.
[Via Zap2It]
Do you think Rovio could really be worth around $11.5 billion? If true, how do you think Zynga will respond, and which mode of gaming will come out on top?
But Bloomberg recently reported that the Angry Birds creator was worth at least $1.2 billion, and this valuation would mean Rovio is 100 percent viable to compete with Zynga. I've never read it being discussed seriously, the two being competitors, but perhaps those talks will start now. Rovio could be the second major company of the new age of publishers to combat the first. (And here we thought the birds were looking to get bought.) Rovio is looking for 1 billion users, and fast. Perhaps Zynga was more of a motivation to the birds than previously imagined.
"We are not selling though - unless somebody offers enough," Vesterbacka was quoted saying in the interview published on Thursday, according to MSNBC. The exec went on to say that Rovio plans to list on the New York stock market within three years. If Rovio can enter new territory with the Angry Birds and take full advantage of the freemium model, then there is no reason it can't be a viable competitor to Zynga.
The more Rovio attempts to introduce the Angry Birds to new media (and sources of revenue), the further it will inch toward defeating Zygna, which only is within a single, though massive market. What I'm getting at is to warn you that there is more swiping and harvesting in your gaming future where the first three years of it came from.
[Via Zap2It]
Do you think Rovio could really be worth around $11.5 billion? If true, how do you think Zynga will respond, and which mode of gaming will come out on top?
Parking Wars 2 brings Philly's ... charms to light in Facebook gaming
We have a fine city here, Philadelphia. But, a lot of that beauty has to grow on a person, and that can take years. So, to warn folks of our city's charms before they decide to visit the City of Brotherly Love, Majesco presents Parking Wars 2 for Facebook. The creator of franchises like Cooking Mama (also on Facebook!) and the Zumba Fitness games is looking to cash in on Facebook.
Based loosely on the hit A&E show of the same name--you know, the one that shows just how awesome it is to drive in my hometown? (To dispel any misleading, It's horrific.) The game launched this week, Inside Social Games reports, and has since reached over 34,000 monthly players and just over 1,500 daily players.
The game tasks players with parking cars on their friend's streets and keeping track of when to move each car and where to move them to in order to maximize points. At this year's E3, we left Parking Wars 2 feeling like it was too reliant on other friends, perhaps. And while it sounds (and sort of is) a bit boring, a slick presentation, sharp '50s style and matching tunes keep it interesting.
Parking Wars 2 in action
When players leave a car in a spot for too long or park illegally, their friends can ticket them there for parking illegally. Players level up by correctly parking and removing cars in a timely fashion. Then, they can purchase new cars that are worth more points when parked correctly. You can then buy items to boost the value of your cars, as well as for extra bonuses to ticketing vehicles. If you're a fan of watching people bicker about parking on TV, then perhaps this is your game, but I like to escape from reality, thanks.
Click here to play Parking Wars 2 on Facebook Now >
Are you excited that Parking Wars is back in action on Facebook? Do you think this sequel will do better than its predecessor?
Based loosely on the hit A&E show of the same name--you know, the one that shows just how awesome it is to drive in my hometown? (To dispel any misleading, It's horrific.) The game launched this week, Inside Social Games reports, and has since reached over 34,000 monthly players and just over 1,500 daily players.
The game tasks players with parking cars on their friend's streets and keeping track of when to move each car and where to move them to in order to maximize points. At this year's E3, we left Parking Wars 2 feeling like it was too reliant on other friends, perhaps. And while it sounds (and sort of is) a bit boring, a slick presentation, sharp '50s style and matching tunes keep it interesting.
Parking Wars 2 in action
When players leave a car in a spot for too long or park illegally, their friends can ticket them there for parking illegally. Players level up by correctly parking and removing cars in a timely fashion. Then, they can purchase new cars that are worth more points when parked correctly. You can then buy items to boost the value of your cars, as well as for extra bonuses to ticketing vehicles. If you're a fan of watching people bicker about parking on TV, then perhaps this is your game, but I like to escape from reality, thanks.
Click here to play Parking Wars 2 on Facebook Now >
Are you excited that Parking Wars is back in action on Facebook? Do you think this sequel will do better than its predecessor?
Facebook Game Faceoff: The Pioneer Trail vs The Oregon Trail
Welcome back to Facebook Game Faceoff, where we pit two similar Facebook games against one another in a battle royale, decided by you, the players. This week, we have The Oregon Trail, Blue Fang and The Learning Company's social take on the classic educational adventure game, on one side of the Octagon. Standing defiantly in the other is The Pioneer Trail, Zynga's ambitious expansion to FrontierVille, one of its most popular Facebook games.
While many wouldn't be surprised, given recent events, The Pioneer Trail draws heavy ... inspiration from The Oregon Trail. (And yes, we're talking about more than just the name.) So, to be fair, let's compare the two games on their laurels.
First, let's see how each game handles life on "The Trail"--i.e. how do players advance through the game. Second, we'll compare the two games' dedication to deep social connections through team play, a feature both tout as fresh and new to Facebook games. Finally, each game will be sized up based on their replay value, since each they both have a finite ending of sorts. Ready ... Duel!
The Oregon Trail in action
Hittin' the Dusty Trail
The Oregon Trail was one of the first games to laser focus social play onto smaller teams of four dedicated friends. Of course, most play is done alone, and Blue Fang didn't forget it. Players' trip down the Trail, is somewhat of a linear affair in how it's presented, but there are several branching paths for players to take that require a variety of materials. This and the number of maladies that can occur on the Trail make preparation vital in The Oregon Trail.
But there are also several mini games that players can partake in to earn more resources and tools like Hunting Vittles, a shooting mini game where players survive to collect meat. Generally speaking, there are more consequences to your choices in The Oregon Trail than most Facebook games. For instance, it's possible to fail to reach Oregon City (or now the Grand Canyon).
The Pioneer Trail in action
The Pioneer Trail, however, takes more of a constant, isometric action approach to the Trail, keeping in line with the original FrontierVille. However, unlike its competitor, players take more direct control of their party members, and use them for specific purposes. Each member of the player team interacts with the environment in the same way, but yield different results. This leads to unique outcomes like new resources, and Goals tailored to the use of your different roles.
The main character, however, has the ability to change how the future of the game plays out through story scrolls, or choices the player is presented with that could have (minor) implications down the line. Most gameplay is just as it is in the original, but with certain key differences, like giganterous social missions that require a number of friends to complete. There's also a large focus on the characters of the Trail, giving The Pioneer Trail a story of sorts.
Oregon Trail friends
You've Got a Friend in Me
The Oregon Trail was, again, seemingly the first social game that focused on friendships (and choosing said friends) that were a bit more meaningful. Each member in your Trail team can be replaced with your friends, who can then help you in their specific role asynchronously. The more your friends help you, the easier it will be for you on the Trail--this philosophy alone causes you to consider which friends should come along.
Everyone chooses a profession in the game for friends to hire them as, and these professions offer bonuses to your friends' parties. But the level of interaction in The Oregon Trail is deeper for another reason: Friends can and will pass each other on the trail, a sort of persistent part of the game where everyone can see where their friends are at. When you pass a friend, you can drop them a line with a ration or an antidote and leave them a message.
The Pioneer Trail hunter
Zynga's answer to the call for deep social connections doesn't look terribly different from The Learning Company's. While friend lists quickly turn into teams on The Pioneer Trail, the individuals have somewhat of a deeper purpose albeit inspired. While friends provide bonuses to the team in The Oregon Trail, this game puts much more on your shoulders as a team member. Friends can not only visit their friends directly, the frequency at which they visit directly affects how quickly you reach Fort Courage (without paying).
Not only that, players can help out each others' friends Goals on the Trail, as if they're actually there (though, this too happens asynchronously). When a friend visits you on the Trail, you must activate their actions and pick up their spoils. So, if you're tackling a Goal that requires lots of Meat, you can ask your Hunter--played by a friend--to search more bushes, which have a higher chance of hiding wild animals and thus Meat. It's not as persistent among all friends, but arguably much deeper.
The Oregon Trail map
How Much to Ride Again?
The Oregon Trail is a finite path to victory, and if the story were more demanding, this would be the end of it. But this is a Facebook game, after all, so the show must go on ... for as long as possible. When players reach either Oregon City or the Grand Canyon, they have the choice to press on to the other before winter arrives, which immediately extends the gameplay. However, there is always the option to play through the game again, as most of the quests you find along the way require multiple playthroughs.
There's also the overall competition, how quickly your friends make it across the Trail and what they find. Not to mention there are achievements to keep track of and boast about. There are also plenty of parts to find for your Wagon, which is fully upgradable and customizable. And with the amount of branching paths this game offers with hidden quests along the way, there are plenty of reasons to play the game over and over. You did it in grade school, and this is only better.
Pioneer Trail Leaderboards
This Frontier expansion-turned-full blown game offers a few reasons to keep playing the game, though not many. First are the Leaderboards, really. This persistent measure of your progress against your friends will be your inspiration to try harder and get that high score, no matter how many replays it takes. (At least in theory.) However, things like Hidden Missions and Story Scrolls are reasons to play through again as well.
Zynga also plans on adding more extensions to the Pioneer Trail storyline, though, which will inevitably extend the appeal of playing over again. A new team member will soon be revealed, as well, and we have a feeling it's going to be the Banker. This too should make replaying the game a good time, but Zynga will have to rely more heavily on its story than ever to keep this new content alive.
Both The Pioneer Trail and The Oregon Trail offer polished visuals and presentations as well as dynamic, more meaningfully social gameplay experiences. However, The Oregon Trail offers far more options and meaningful decisions. The concept of time in this game provides a certain weight to every choice you make, and requires far more smarts and planning than Zynga's outing. It makes for a more rewarding feeling each time you arrive at Oregon City, beating your best time or dodging certain dire conditions along the way. That and the game's numerous quests and achievements make a second playthrough slightly more attractive. And for all that, our vote goes to The Oregon Trail by Blue Fang as winner of this faceoff. But, this isn't about us (at least entirely). It's about what you, the players, think. So, let's leave the final decision on the victor is up to you:
The Oregon Trail or The Pioneer Trail?
The Oregon Trail is the original and the best!Come on, The Pioneer Trail is so much better than that remake.
VoteView ResultsShare ThisPolldaddy.com
Have something unique to say about either combatant? Down for some good old trash talkin'?
While many wouldn't be surprised, given recent events, The Pioneer Trail draws heavy ... inspiration from The Oregon Trail. (And yes, we're talking about more than just the name.) So, to be fair, let's compare the two games on their laurels.
First, let's see how each game handles life on "The Trail"--i.e. how do players advance through the game. Second, we'll compare the two games' dedication to deep social connections through team play, a feature both tout as fresh and new to Facebook games. Finally, each game will be sized up based on their replay value, since each they both have a finite ending of sorts. Ready ... Duel!
The Oregon Trail in action
Hittin' the Dusty Trail
The Oregon Trail was one of the first games to laser focus social play onto smaller teams of four dedicated friends. Of course, most play is done alone, and Blue Fang didn't forget it. Players' trip down the Trail, is somewhat of a linear affair in how it's presented, but there are several branching paths for players to take that require a variety of materials. This and the number of maladies that can occur on the Trail make preparation vital in The Oregon Trail.
But there are also several mini games that players can partake in to earn more resources and tools like Hunting Vittles, a shooting mini game where players survive to collect meat. Generally speaking, there are more consequences to your choices in The Oregon Trail than most Facebook games. For instance, it's possible to fail to reach Oregon City (or now the Grand Canyon).
The Pioneer Trail in action
The Pioneer Trail, however, takes more of a constant, isometric action approach to the Trail, keeping in line with the original FrontierVille. However, unlike its competitor, players take more direct control of their party members, and use them for specific purposes. Each member of the player team interacts with the environment in the same way, but yield different results. This leads to unique outcomes like new resources, and Goals tailored to the use of your different roles.
The main character, however, has the ability to change how the future of the game plays out through story scrolls, or choices the player is presented with that could have (minor) implications down the line. Most gameplay is just as it is in the original, but with certain key differences, like giganterous social missions that require a number of friends to complete. There's also a large focus on the characters of the Trail, giving The Pioneer Trail a story of sorts.
Oregon Trail friends
You've Got a Friend in Me
The Oregon Trail was, again, seemingly the first social game that focused on friendships (and choosing said friends) that were a bit more meaningful. Each member in your Trail team can be replaced with your friends, who can then help you in their specific role asynchronously. The more your friends help you, the easier it will be for you on the Trail--this philosophy alone causes you to consider which friends should come along.
Everyone chooses a profession in the game for friends to hire them as, and these professions offer bonuses to your friends' parties. But the level of interaction in The Oregon Trail is deeper for another reason: Friends can and will pass each other on the trail, a sort of persistent part of the game where everyone can see where their friends are at. When you pass a friend, you can drop them a line with a ration or an antidote and leave them a message.
The Pioneer Trail hunter
Zynga's answer to the call for deep social connections doesn't look terribly different from The Learning Company's. While friend lists quickly turn into teams on The Pioneer Trail, the individuals have somewhat of a deeper purpose albeit inspired. While friends provide bonuses to the team in The Oregon Trail, this game puts much more on your shoulders as a team member. Friends can not only visit their friends directly, the frequency at which they visit directly affects how quickly you reach Fort Courage (without paying).
Not only that, players can help out each others' friends Goals on the Trail, as if they're actually there (though, this too happens asynchronously). When a friend visits you on the Trail, you must activate their actions and pick up their spoils. So, if you're tackling a Goal that requires lots of Meat, you can ask your Hunter--played by a friend--to search more bushes, which have a higher chance of hiding wild animals and thus Meat. It's not as persistent among all friends, but arguably much deeper.
The Oregon Trail map
How Much to Ride Again?
The Oregon Trail is a finite path to victory, and if the story were more demanding, this would be the end of it. But this is a Facebook game, after all, so the show must go on ... for as long as possible. When players reach either Oregon City or the Grand Canyon, they have the choice to press on to the other before winter arrives, which immediately extends the gameplay. However, there is always the option to play through the game again, as most of the quests you find along the way require multiple playthroughs.
There's also the overall competition, how quickly your friends make it across the Trail and what they find. Not to mention there are achievements to keep track of and boast about. There are also plenty of parts to find for your Wagon, which is fully upgradable and customizable. And with the amount of branching paths this game offers with hidden quests along the way, there are plenty of reasons to play the game over and over. You did it in grade school, and this is only better.
Pioneer Trail Leaderboards
This Frontier expansion-turned-full blown game offers a few reasons to keep playing the game, though not many. First are the Leaderboards, really. This persistent measure of your progress against your friends will be your inspiration to try harder and get that high score, no matter how many replays it takes. (At least in theory.) However, things like Hidden Missions and Story Scrolls are reasons to play through again as well.
Zynga also plans on adding more extensions to the Pioneer Trail storyline, though, which will inevitably extend the appeal of playing over again. A new team member will soon be revealed, as well, and we have a feeling it's going to be the Banker. This too should make replaying the game a good time, but Zynga will have to rely more heavily on its story than ever to keep this new content alive.
Both The Pioneer Trail and The Oregon Trail offer polished visuals and presentations as well as dynamic, more meaningfully social gameplay experiences. However, The Oregon Trail offers far more options and meaningful decisions. The concept of time in this game provides a certain weight to every choice you make, and requires far more smarts and planning than Zynga's outing. It makes for a more rewarding feeling each time you arrive at Oregon City, beating your best time or dodging certain dire conditions along the way. That and the game's numerous quests and achievements make a second playthrough slightly more attractive. And for all that, our vote goes to The Oregon Trail by Blue Fang as winner of this faceoff. But, this isn't about us (at least entirely). It's about what you, the players, think. So, let's leave the final decision on the victor is up to you:
The Oregon Trail or The Pioneer Trail?
The Oregon Trail is the original and the best!Come on, The Pioneer Trail is so much better than that remake.
VoteView ResultsShare ThisPolldaddy.com
Have something unique to say about either combatant? Down for some good old trash talkin'?
FarmVille Super Orchard Expansions: Everything you need to know
If you're tired of waiting two days in between harvests of your Orchards in FarmVille, there's now a solution: Super Orchards have launched in the game this evening, giving you a chance to upgrade each of your individual, normal Orchards, to be able to hold up to 40 trees, and be harvested daily.
Let's say that again - each Super Orchard holds twice the trees, and can be harvested every day! Even if you just dabble in the world of tree mastery, this is a fabulous opportunity to earn more points, and fast! However, not everything is sunshine and roses concerning this new feature, as there's one touchy element I've left out: the upgrades don't come free, and in fact, they're incredibly expensive!
It doesn't seem as though the FarmVille team at Zynga has decided on a final price, so you may see anything from 95 Farm Cash to 120 Farm Cash as your price for a single Super Orchard upgrade. By clicking on an Orchard and choosing to upgrade it, you're also given the option to upgrade every one of your Orchards simultaneously, but this cost could be astronomical - ranging from a few hundred Farm Cash to tens of thousands of Farm Cash, depending on how many regular Orchards you happen to own.
Personally, I was incredibly excited to see the Super Orchard option launch in my game, but with those high of price tags, and no current way to upgrade these Orchards for free, I'll gladly save my Farm Cash and will get used to the thought of harvesting trees once every two days once again.
Will you / would you ever purchase a Super Orchcard, or do you think the cost is simply too much to ask for "free" Mastery Points.
Let's say that again - each Super Orchard holds twice the trees, and can be harvested every day! Even if you just dabble in the world of tree mastery, this is a fabulous opportunity to earn more points, and fast! However, not everything is sunshine and roses concerning this new feature, as there's one touchy element I've left out: the upgrades don't come free, and in fact, they're incredibly expensive!
It doesn't seem as though the FarmVille team at Zynga has decided on a final price, so you may see anything from 95 Farm Cash to 120 Farm Cash as your price for a single Super Orchard upgrade. By clicking on an Orchard and choosing to upgrade it, you're also given the option to upgrade every one of your Orchards simultaneously, but this cost could be astronomical - ranging from a few hundred Farm Cash to tens of thousands of Farm Cash, depending on how many regular Orchards you happen to own.
Personally, I was incredibly excited to see the Super Orchard option launch in my game, but with those high of price tags, and no current way to upgrade these Orchards for free, I'll gladly save my Farm Cash and will get used to the thought of harvesting trees once every two days once again.
Will you / would you ever purchase a Super Orchcard, or do you think the cost is simply too much to ask for "free" Mastery Points.
FarmVille: Double Mastery event on now for crops and trees
I've got some good news for you farmers! Zynga has quietly launched a Double Mastery Weekend in FarmVille, applying to both trees and crops. This weekend event actually lasts a bit longer than the name implies, as we'll be able to earn double the mastery points on each and every crop and tree harvested from now until Monday evening at 9PM PST.
It should be noted that as of this writing, it doesn't look like animals are a part of this Double Mastery event, which is disappointing, but not entirely unexpected (let's face it - some of those animals have pretty short mastery cycles already). Also, while most farmers will have plenty to get excited about this weekend, including the ability to have 3X crop mastery when harvesting with a Bushel active, if you're the owner of a Platinum Mastery Statue, this bonus will not stack for you. That is, you won't have a 4X Double Mastery event, no matter how fantastic that would be.
Either way, this is a great time to start mastering those short-growing-time crops, including Super Crops, if you've unlocked them. Also, if you upgrade a few Orchards to Super Orchards (watch out - that's an expensive move!), then you'll be able to have plenty of Orchards ready to harvest at least twice before this event ends, upping your mastery plan even further. It's all up to you as to how you take advantage of this event, but just remember - it won't be around for ever, so don't delay!
Which crops or trees are you hoping to finish mastering during this Double Mastery weekend? Would you pay Farm Cash to "ready" your animals if you knew they fell under Double Mastery as well?
It should be noted that as of this writing, it doesn't look like animals are a part of this Double Mastery event, which is disappointing, but not entirely unexpected (let's face it - some of those animals have pretty short mastery cycles already). Also, while most farmers will have plenty to get excited about this weekend, including the ability to have 3X crop mastery when harvesting with a Bushel active, if you're the owner of a Platinum Mastery Statue, this bonus will not stack for you. That is, you won't have a 4X Double Mastery event, no matter how fantastic that would be.
Either way, this is a great time to start mastering those short-growing-time crops, including Super Crops, if you've unlocked them. Also, if you upgrade a few Orchards to Super Orchards (watch out - that's an expensive move!), then you'll be able to have plenty of Orchards ready to harvest at least twice before this event ends, upping your mastery plan even further. It's all up to you as to how you take advantage of this event, but just remember - it won't be around for ever, so don't delay!
Which crops or trees are you hoping to finish mastering during this Double Mastery weekend? Would you pay Farm Cash to "ready" your animals if you knew they fell under Double Mastery as well?
Thursday, December 15, 2011
PETA wags the finger at Nintendo for Mario's taste in furry power-ups
The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA, has chosen a peculiar target for its next pro-animal campaign. You all likely know him quite well: Super Mario. The organization has created a highly suggestive Flash game that essentially calls developer Nintendo out for what it claims is a message that says it's OK to skin animals and wear them as suits.
You could also say this for Mario's less popular Frog Suit, but that just wouldn't have the same sting as "Mario Kills Tanooki." That's the title of the game, which throws players behind the controls of--literally--a skinned tanuki. You can probably already guess the game's objective: Capture Mario ... who happens to be flying away with your fur coat. So much for subtleties.
"Tanooki may be just a 'suit' in Mario games, but in real life, tanuki are raccoon dogs who are skinned alive for their fur," the PETA game's website reads. "By wearing Tanooki, Mario is sending the message that it's OK to wear fur."
The timing of Mario Kills Tanooki is spot on, as Nintendo just released Super Mario 3D Land in which the plumber's famous Tanooki Suit is a prominent feature. Frankly, we've never seen a more menacing Mario than within PETA's interactive call to arms in defense of the tanuki. Now, you gotta' wonder how the organization would feel about this guy.
[Via Kotaku]
Have you played the Mario Kills Tanooki game? Do you think Mario's famous Tanooki Suit might send the wrong message to Nintendo fans?
You could also say this for Mario's less popular Frog Suit, but that just wouldn't have the same sting as "Mario Kills Tanooki." That's the title of the game, which throws players behind the controls of--literally--a skinned tanuki. You can probably already guess the game's objective: Capture Mario ... who happens to be flying away with your fur coat. So much for subtleties.
"Tanooki may be just a 'suit' in Mario games, but in real life, tanuki are raccoon dogs who are skinned alive for their fur," the PETA game's website reads. "By wearing Tanooki, Mario is sending the message that it's OK to wear fur."
The timing of Mario Kills Tanooki is spot on, as Nintendo just released Super Mario 3D Land in which the plumber's famous Tanooki Suit is a prominent feature. Frankly, we've never seen a more menacing Mario than within PETA's interactive call to arms in defense of the tanuki. Now, you gotta' wonder how the organization would feel about this guy.
[Via Kotaku]
Have you played the Mario Kills Tanooki game? Do you think Mario's famous Tanooki Suit might send the wrong message to Nintendo fans?
If Pawn Stars works on Facebook, Storage Wars will feel right at home
What the hey, let's throw Parking Wars on their too while we're at it--oh, never mind. It's official, folks: Now that Storage Wars has made it to Facebook after just a single season on A&E, reality TV has staked its claim in social gaming. The game based on the popular--though, we can't understand why--TV show hits Facebook today as the second season premieres tonight on A&E. (With Pawn Stars still kicking, this is A&E's second Facebook game.)
In Storage Wars on Facebook, players join animated versions of characters from the show in high-stakes bidding wars on things in folks' storage units. Players travel around the world in-game to bid on various relics with virtual cash in order to earn more digital bucks to bid on more things. It sounds like a boring vicious cycle, but ultimately players will go all-in for Wanted Treasures that come with huge profits.
"Storage Wars fans have shown that they are eager to get in on the bidding action themselves and our new game for Facebook lets them do just that," said A+E Networks SVP of Games Kris Soumas in a release. "We've put the same emphasis on developing a fun and addictive game experience that A&E brings to its program development."
Gallery: Storage Wars on Facebook
Based on these first screen shots, the game looks to pack numerous storage units with items to bid for inside. More importantly, however, players are guided through the game with none other than quests, or folks craving for Wanted Treasures. But what about our Wanted Treasure, Mario Kart on Facebook?
Click here to play Storage Wars on Facebook Now >
Are you a fan of Storage Wars on A&E? What do you think of the rampant growth of branded games on Facebook?
In Storage Wars on Facebook, players join animated versions of characters from the show in high-stakes bidding wars on things in folks' storage units. Players travel around the world in-game to bid on various relics with virtual cash in order to earn more digital bucks to bid on more things. It sounds like a boring vicious cycle, but ultimately players will go all-in for Wanted Treasures that come with huge profits.
"Storage Wars fans have shown that they are eager to get in on the bidding action themselves and our new game for Facebook lets them do just that," said A+E Networks SVP of Games Kris Soumas in a release. "We've put the same emphasis on developing a fun and addictive game experience that A&E brings to its program development."
Gallery: Storage Wars on Facebook
Based on these first screen shots, the game looks to pack numerous storage units with items to bid for inside. More importantly, however, players are guided through the game with none other than quests, or folks craving for Wanted Treasures. But what about our Wanted Treasure, Mario Kart on Facebook?
Click here to play Storage Wars on Facebook Now >
Are you a fan of Storage Wars on A&E? What do you think of the rampant growth of branded games on Facebook?
Enrique Iglesias says, 'I Like How It Feels' in CityVille, visits next week
Man, why can't an act like Metallica crash CityVille? Oh, excuse my inner metal head, but you ladies out there are gonna' love this one: Zynga has announced that Grammy-winning pop star Enrique Iglesias is coming to its top Facebook game. Starting next week on Oct. 4, players will get the chance to help Mr. Iglesias kick off his recently-launched Euphoria Tour in-game.
Once Enrique lands in CityVille--and if you're over Level 6--you will be graced by his digitized presence in the game. But there' far more to this promotion than just clicking on the guy to hear witty sayings: Players will be able to collect various items fond to Enrique to score a thematic speed boat and Miami high-rise to place in their cities. The event will run through Oct. 10, and there is a grand finale in store for Enrique fans.
Enrique Iglesias in CityVille
Toward the end of the event, you will have the chance to build Enrique his very own Euphoria Arena in-game. Once you do, the guy will be so nice as to show you a sneak preview of his brand new music video, "I Like How It Feels" (featuring Pitbull and The WAVs). Of course, this is far from the first time a Zynga game has enjoyed celebrity exposure.
Just recently, the company announced that Indiana Jones will swoop into Adventure World through its work with Lucasfilm, and who can forget when Lady Gaga ran FarmVille for a few weeks earlier this spring? Even before that, both Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg had their fun with Mafia Wars. Are you sensing a trend yet? Good, because we doubt this is the last time a celeb will hit Zynga with a touch of fame. In fact, if you ask Facebook's major game creators, branded games are on the up and up.
Are you psyched to see that Enrique will hit up CityVille on his Euphoria Tour? Which celebrity or artist do you hope makes their way into a Zynga game next?
Once Enrique lands in CityVille--and if you're over Level 6--you will be graced by his digitized presence in the game. But there' far more to this promotion than just clicking on the guy to hear witty sayings: Players will be able to collect various items fond to Enrique to score a thematic speed boat and Miami high-rise to place in their cities. The event will run through Oct. 10, and there is a grand finale in store for Enrique fans.
Enrique Iglesias in CityVille
Toward the end of the event, you will have the chance to build Enrique his very own Euphoria Arena in-game. Once you do, the guy will be so nice as to show you a sneak preview of his brand new music video, "I Like How It Feels" (featuring Pitbull and The WAVs). Of course, this is far from the first time a Zynga game has enjoyed celebrity exposure.
Just recently, the company announced that Indiana Jones will swoop into Adventure World through its work with Lucasfilm, and who can forget when Lady Gaga ran FarmVille for a few weeks earlier this spring? Even before that, both Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg had their fun with Mafia Wars. Are you sensing a trend yet? Good, because we doubt this is the last time a celeb will hit Zynga with a touch of fame. In fact, if you ask Facebook's major game creators, branded games are on the up and up.
Are you psyched to see that Enrique will hit up CityVille on his Euphoria Tour? Which celebrity or artist do you hope makes their way into a Zynga game next?
Social game startup Pangalore makes HTML5 games look good
Let's just get something out of the way: HTML5 gaming on Facebook and mobile hasn't exploded because, frankly, most of the early HTML5 games look like high school programming class projects. Pangalore, a startup based in Seoul, South Korea and San Jose, Calif., looks to change that with HTML5-based social games that both work across platforms and are actually a treat to look at.
Today, the company launches its first two HTML5 games--ArtFit and Wild West Solitaire--for Facebook, iOS and Android devices simultaneously. (Players can also play these games from their smartphone's web browser.)
The former of which is a puzzler presented in colorful, semi-realistic crayon and paper mache-style artwork. Players must use predetermined colored blocks in various shapes to fit them inside of a larger shape, like, say, a giraffe. Of course, players are scored for how long it takes them to fit the pieces within the larger shape, and for how many changes made before it's complete.
Everything from the music to the textured artwork in ArtFit is top notch, which is surprising for an HTML5 game. (However, it's important to note that animation isn't a particularly impressive component to neither this game nor Wild West Solitaire.) Players can invite their friends to compare scores with and source hints for tough puzzles from, which you'll incessantly be reminded of.
Gallery: Pangalore Games on Facebook
While the latter, Wild West Solitaire, looks wonderful, its animation is rather choppy, a likely limitation of HTML5 games. (Not to mention its artwork is terribly reminiscent of Blue Fang's take on The Learning Company's The Oregon Trail.) The game is a variation on Solitaire in which players must clear numerous stages of cards by clicking them in either standard or reverse numerical order. Doing so quickly and without fail earns combo points, and each stage is a representation of the Oregon Trail.
ArtFit in action
Each stage in the game culminates with a target practice of sorts in which players click badges in succession similar to the Solitaire portion of the game. The more badges you can put a dent into before the dynamite goes off, the more badges you'll collect, which are needed to access the next stage. Players can compete Wild West Solitaire's weekly tournaments as well, which rank players based on their scores. Of course, you also need friends to provide you with more cards to play with in story mode.
Aside from the annoying, constant requests to add friends and somewhat unnatural animations, ArtFit and Wild West Solitaire are two of the most visually impressive HTML5-based Facebook games we've seen to date. More importantly in Pangalore's case, however, is that these games are linked via Facebook. This means players can pick up where they left off on in, say, ArtFit on Facebook through their iPhone, and later continue their progress made on the iPhone back on Facebook.
Wild West Solitaire
Pangalore calls this "Universal Play," and during a demo of the two games, CPO Doyon Kim tells us that it's the developer's core mission. While Kim admits that the games are asynchronous, like nearly all social games, Pangalore is more concerned with allowing its players to enjoy games like ArtFit everywhere they are. Two more HTML5-based social games, Pop Candy and Bubble Prince, are due out before the end of the year, according to Kim.
But Kim also took the time to show us another game built using the Unity Player for decidedly more hardcore or traditional audiences. The game, which has yet to even receive an official title, is essentially a more visually robust FarmVille, but set in a medieval world. Players will create their own farming village, which is to support their character's quests slaying monsters and rescuing damsels. While we were only shown a knight class, Kim tell us that more character options that fit into the high fantasy theme will be available when the game launches simultaneously on Facebook, iOS and Android in early 2012.
Wild West Solitaire in action
Pangalore's strategy is twofold: Make games for the average Facebook gamer through HTML5, and hit up the supposedly growing hardcore gaming audience on Facebook with more visually robust games through Unity. (Notice how Flash--the normal method of creating social games--is avoided altogether.) Then again, Pangalore's approach comes back to a single motivation: Make games that people can play from wherever they are.
Click here to play both ArtFit and Wild West Solitaire on Facebook Now >
What do you think of the growing movement toward HTML5 games? Are you the type of gamer that wants to have their favorite games wherever they are?
Today, the company launches its first two HTML5 games--ArtFit and Wild West Solitaire--for Facebook, iOS and Android devices simultaneously. (Players can also play these games from their smartphone's web browser.)
The former of which is a puzzler presented in colorful, semi-realistic crayon and paper mache-style artwork. Players must use predetermined colored blocks in various shapes to fit them inside of a larger shape, like, say, a giraffe. Of course, players are scored for how long it takes them to fit the pieces within the larger shape, and for how many changes made before it's complete.
Everything from the music to the textured artwork in ArtFit is top notch, which is surprising for an HTML5 game. (However, it's important to note that animation isn't a particularly impressive component to neither this game nor Wild West Solitaire.) Players can invite their friends to compare scores with and source hints for tough puzzles from, which you'll incessantly be reminded of.
Gallery: Pangalore Games on Facebook
While the latter, Wild West Solitaire, looks wonderful, its animation is rather choppy, a likely limitation of HTML5 games. (Not to mention its artwork is terribly reminiscent of Blue Fang's take on The Learning Company's The Oregon Trail.) The game is a variation on Solitaire in which players must clear numerous stages of cards by clicking them in either standard or reverse numerical order. Doing so quickly and without fail earns combo points, and each stage is a representation of the Oregon Trail.
ArtFit in action
Each stage in the game culminates with a target practice of sorts in which players click badges in succession similar to the Solitaire portion of the game. The more badges you can put a dent into before the dynamite goes off, the more badges you'll collect, which are needed to access the next stage. Players can compete Wild West Solitaire's weekly tournaments as well, which rank players based on their scores. Of course, you also need friends to provide you with more cards to play with in story mode.
Aside from the annoying, constant requests to add friends and somewhat unnatural animations, ArtFit and Wild West Solitaire are two of the most visually impressive HTML5-based Facebook games we've seen to date. More importantly in Pangalore's case, however, is that these games are linked via Facebook. This means players can pick up where they left off on in, say, ArtFit on Facebook through their iPhone, and later continue their progress made on the iPhone back on Facebook.
Wild West Solitaire
Pangalore calls this "Universal Play," and during a demo of the two games, CPO Doyon Kim tells us that it's the developer's core mission. While Kim admits that the games are asynchronous, like nearly all social games, Pangalore is more concerned with allowing its players to enjoy games like ArtFit everywhere they are. Two more HTML5-based social games, Pop Candy and Bubble Prince, are due out before the end of the year, according to Kim.
But Kim also took the time to show us another game built using the Unity Player for decidedly more hardcore or traditional audiences. The game, which has yet to even receive an official title, is essentially a more visually robust FarmVille, but set in a medieval world. Players will create their own farming village, which is to support their character's quests slaying monsters and rescuing damsels. While we were only shown a knight class, Kim tell us that more character options that fit into the high fantasy theme will be available when the game launches simultaneously on Facebook, iOS and Android in early 2012.
Wild West Solitaire in action
Pangalore's strategy is twofold: Make games for the average Facebook gamer through HTML5, and hit up the supposedly growing hardcore gaming audience on Facebook with more visually robust games through Unity. (Notice how Flash--the normal method of creating social games--is avoided altogether.) Then again, Pangalore's approach comes back to a single motivation: Make games that people can play from wherever they are.
Click here to play both ArtFit and Wild West Solitaire on Facebook Now >
What do you think of the growing movement toward HTML5 games? Are you the type of gamer that wants to have their favorite games wherever they are?
Facebook strategy games match PC quality ... from back in the day
"We see the emergence now of companies on Facebook who are building what they'd call a core game," Facebook games platform head Gareth Davis said to GamesIndustry.biz in an interview. "Games targeted at people who played PC games back in the day, strategy games. They're at the quality level now of those PC games."
Considering these games are being created in 2011, we're not sure whether that's a compliment or a complaint. This isn't to say that games like Kixeye's War Commander or Edgeworld by Kabam aren't impressive in their own right. However, if Davis is referring to classic real-time strategy games for the PC like StarCraft and Command & Conquer--you know, games that allowed for real-time multiplayer matchmaking and control of individual units on the battlefield--then we'd have to disagree.
Davis's ultimate point is that new genres are blooming in the Facebook games space for growing niche audiences, like hardcore strategy gamers (from the late '90s?). Jokes aside, new niches in Facebook games are certainly cropping up, and that can only mean more diversity from the tired FarmVille formula. For instance, Entertainment Games is aiming directly at our parents with its first Facebook game, Retro World.
"So we're seeing this broadening now of the kinds of games and audiences and you can be very successful, creating different types of games and you can make a lot of money doing it," Davis told GI.biz. "We're seeing a real maturing of the eco-system as people figure out the right opportunities and go after them." If this means an end to the rampant propagation of the 'Ville species, then count us in.
[Via IndustryGamers]
Do you think strategy games on Facebook come close to the classics? What other niches do you think Facebook games could cater to?
Considering these games are being created in 2011, we're not sure whether that's a compliment or a complaint. This isn't to say that games like Kixeye's War Commander or Edgeworld by Kabam aren't impressive in their own right. However, if Davis is referring to classic real-time strategy games for the PC like StarCraft and Command & Conquer--you know, games that allowed for real-time multiplayer matchmaking and control of individual units on the battlefield--then we'd have to disagree.
Davis's ultimate point is that new genres are blooming in the Facebook games space for growing niche audiences, like hardcore strategy gamers (from the late '90s?). Jokes aside, new niches in Facebook games are certainly cropping up, and that can only mean more diversity from the tired FarmVille formula. For instance, Entertainment Games is aiming directly at our parents with its first Facebook game, Retro World.
"So we're seeing this broadening now of the kinds of games and audiences and you can be very successful, creating different types of games and you can make a lot of money doing it," Davis told GI.biz. "We're seeing a real maturing of the eco-system as people figure out the right opportunities and go after them." If this means an end to the rampant propagation of the 'Ville species, then count us in.
[Via IndustryGamers]
Do you think strategy games on Facebook come close to the classics? What other niches do you think Facebook games could cater to?
Bejeweled 2 to bedazzle Kindle Fire along with Scrabble, Monopoly et al
The Kindle Fire could approach "Blazing Speed" before it's even released. (Get it? No? Ah, never mind.) EA Mobile has announced that a number of its mobile social game properties (and one rather "hardcore" game) have been pushed to the Amazon Appstore for Android and optimized for the upcoming Kindle Fire tablet.
Namely Bejeweled 2, Monopoly, The Game of Life and Scrabble will be available when the Kindle Fire launches. But those three games are also joined by Tetris (which is damn near everywhere) and survival horror hit Dead Space. When Zynga announced that Words With Friends would hit the Kindle Fire, we wondered whether that was a sign that the device might be hot on social gaming.
Now that versions of two of the most addictive Facebook games to date will be featured on Kindle Fire, we're certainly getting warmer. No, wait, that's just our credit cards burning holes in our wallets.
"EA is proud to be part of Kindle Fire," EA's Bernard Kim said, according to Social Times. "On Kindle Fire, we're offering some of the world's most popular titles with incredible gameplay and breathtaking graphics that anyone can play and enjoy anytime, anywhere." Does "incredible graphics" mean we'll finally get to see those wooden word tiles in HD, grains and all?
Do you plan on picking up a Kindle Fire when it releases? Could the device prove to be a hotbed for mobile social gaming like the iOS lineup has?
Namely Bejeweled 2, Monopoly, The Game of Life and Scrabble will be available when the Kindle Fire launches. But those three games are also joined by Tetris (which is damn near everywhere) and survival horror hit Dead Space. When Zynga announced that Words With Friends would hit the Kindle Fire, we wondered whether that was a sign that the device might be hot on social gaming.
Now that versions of two of the most addictive Facebook games to date will be featured on Kindle Fire, we're certainly getting warmer. No, wait, that's just our credit cards burning holes in our wallets.
"EA is proud to be part of Kindle Fire," EA's Bernard Kim said, according to Social Times. "On Kindle Fire, we're offering some of the world's most popular titles with incredible gameplay and breathtaking graphics that anyone can play and enjoy anytime, anywhere." Does "incredible graphics" mean we'll finally get to see those wooden word tiles in HD, grains and all?
Do you plan on picking up a Kindle Fire when it releases? Could the device prove to be a hotbed for mobile social gaming like the iOS lineup has?
FarmVille's creator: Making a great game is 'like making a cake'
Wait, so this is the analogy behind making a multi-billion dollar game franchise? When asked what makes a great game by The Times of India during his first visit to the country, FarmVille maker Mark Skaggs said, "Think of it like making a cake. You have to get the right ingredients - in this case the art, the technology, the music and the game play. And like a chef, put it all together in the right way."
Skaggs, who serves as Zynga's head of product, is also credited as the mind behind CityVille. That said, the EA veteran is arguably the driving force behind the two best performing social games of all time. So, the guy has to be onto something, right?
"You need art that makes people feel it's inviting and attractive," Skaggs told Times of India. "Music and audio gives you the sense of space and reality. The game play (the rules of play, why something moves in a particular way, how interactions happen etc) determines whether you have fun playing it or whether you get bored." (So says the man behind the main source of inspiration for designer Ian Bogost's Cow Clicker.)
Skaggs went on to praise India for its talent, revealing that a whopping 200 of Zynga's employees are based in the country. Better yet, the man who birthed the 'Ville franchise said that original, global Zynga games developed in India are coming soon. Let's just hope those developers aren't taking Skaggs's analogy to heart--we already have enough of those games.
What do you think of Skaggs's approach to explaining how great games are made? Do you think Skaggs's two primary contributions to Zynga are "great games?"
Skaggs, who serves as Zynga's head of product, is also credited as the mind behind CityVille. That said, the EA veteran is arguably the driving force behind the two best performing social games of all time. So, the guy has to be onto something, right?
"You need art that makes people feel it's inviting and attractive," Skaggs told Times of India. "Music and audio gives you the sense of space and reality. The game play (the rules of play, why something moves in a particular way, how interactions happen etc) determines whether you have fun playing it or whether you get bored." (So says the man behind the main source of inspiration for designer Ian Bogost's Cow Clicker.)
Skaggs went on to praise India for its talent, revealing that a whopping 200 of Zynga's employees are based in the country. Better yet, the man who birthed the 'Ville franchise said that original, global Zynga games developed in India are coming soon. Let's just hope those developers aren't taking Skaggs's analogy to heart--we already have enough of those games.
What do you think of Skaggs's approach to explaining how great games are made? Do you think Skaggs's two primary contributions to Zynga are "great games?"
Zynga releases screens for Hidden Chronicles, coming soon to Facebook
After announcing the development of Hidden Chronicles back at Zynga Unleashed in October, Zynga has since created a Facebook fan page for the company's upcoming hidden object game on Facebook, and has recently started offering some new screenshots and artwork of the game.
We still don't have a release date for the new game, but we can see that the art is reminiscent of many of the genre's most popular PC download titles; that is, some of the environments look as though they're set in the past, with classic pieces of furniture, as but one example. We can also see some underwater art which is particularly pretty (perhaps we'll go snorkeling, looking for the lost treasure of a pirate ship?), and what looks to be a massive castle or temple reaching up into the sky. Could this mean that the game is setup similarly to Playdom's Gardens of Time, with differently themed areas to travel to across the entire game? Regardless, one thing that should be noted is that it looks like some scenes will be less cluttered than others, as the underwater shot above looks to contain only a few household items, while others in the gallery below have far larger junk piles.
Gallery: Hidden Chronicles Facebook
As for further news, we'll make sure to stay on top of things, and will let you know just as soon as Hidden Chronicles launches on Facebook.
In the meantime, let us know what you think of this artwork in the comments. Is this a kind of game you can imagine yourself having fun with, or have you never really tried a hidden object game?
We still don't have a release date for the new game, but we can see that the art is reminiscent of many of the genre's most popular PC download titles; that is, some of the environments look as though they're set in the past, with classic pieces of furniture, as but one example. We can also see some underwater art which is particularly pretty (perhaps we'll go snorkeling, looking for the lost treasure of a pirate ship?), and what looks to be a massive castle or temple reaching up into the sky. Could this mean that the game is setup similarly to Playdom's Gardens of Time, with differently themed areas to travel to across the entire game? Regardless, one thing that should be noted is that it looks like some scenes will be less cluttered than others, as the underwater shot above looks to contain only a few household items, while others in the gallery below have far larger junk piles.
Gallery: Hidden Chronicles Facebook
As for further news, we'll make sure to stay on top of things, and will let you know just as soon as Hidden Chronicles launches on Facebook.
In the meantime, let us know what you think of this artwork in the comments. Is this a kind of game you can imagine yourself having fun with, or have you never really tried a hidden object game?
Say 'Happy Holidays' with $50 in digital dragons with Kabam gift cards
What rings in the holidays better than complete online pwnage? Social game domination without the need for a pesky credit card, that's what. Facebook strategy game maker Kabam announced that $25 and $50 gift cards are now available in GameStop and Best Buy locations across the U.S. Of course, players can use these cards to buy in-game boosts for an unfair competitive advantage.
"The introduction of Kabam Game Cards is an important step forward in our continuous search for new and better ways to serve our audience of core gamers," Kabam COO Chris Carvalho said in a release. "The availability of pre-paid Kabam Game Cards at these two leading game retailers validates the rise of hardcore social gaming as a mainstream activity and allows more players to enrich their game experience with powerful in-game items."
By "enrich their game experience" we assume Kabam means "crush their weaker, non-paying foes." But really, the point of the Kabam gift cards is to allow a new portion of social gamers the chance to pay up: those without bank accounts or credit cards. The gift cards are usable through the developer's games hosted on Facebook and Kabam.com, but not Google+.
That said, every Kabam game supports the new gift cards at least somewhere, including the brand new The Godfather: Five Families. Attention stubborn free players: Prepare to have your butt handed to you this winter--Happy Holidays.
Now that you can buy items and boosts in Kabam games without a credit card, is that something you'll consider? What do you think of the option to purchase advantages in competitive social games?
"The introduction of Kabam Game Cards is an important step forward in our continuous search for new and better ways to serve our audience of core gamers," Kabam COO Chris Carvalho said in a release. "The availability of pre-paid Kabam Game Cards at these two leading game retailers validates the rise of hardcore social gaming as a mainstream activity and allows more players to enrich their game experience with powerful in-game items."
By "enrich their game experience" we assume Kabam means "crush their weaker, non-paying foes." But really, the point of the Kabam gift cards is to allow a new portion of social gamers the chance to pay up: those without bank accounts or credit cards. The gift cards are usable through the developer's games hosted on Facebook and Kabam.com, but not Google+.
That said, every Kabam game supports the new gift cards at least somewhere, including the brand new The Godfather: Five Families. Attention stubborn free players: Prepare to have your butt handed to you this winter--Happy Holidays.
Now that you can buy items and boosts in Kabam games without a credit card, is that something you'll consider? What do you think of the option to purchase advantages in competitive social games?
Monday, December 12, 2011
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Chapter 4 Goals: Everything you need to know
Continuing in the saga of the Lighthouse Cove in FarmVille, we've seen the launch of Chapter 4 in the story, along with three goals to get you started. These goals bring in a bit of Halloween fun with the appearance of Candy Corn and themed decorations, but as usual, your progress is being timed. You'll only have two weeks to complete these goals, and while that shouldn't be a problem, here's a guide to completing the three of them for sure.
A History of Fun!
Get 3 Candy Corn
Harvest Lighthouse Cove
Make Fruit Cider Twice
Candy Corn can be gathered by posted a general request on your news feed for all of your friends to respond to. As for the Fruit Cider, this recipe is made inside your Restaurant using two Cove Cranberry, three Red Currant and three Lady Slipper bushels each. You'll need to wait six hours for these to finish crafting, so that gives you a bit of time to wait for your Lighthouse Cove to become ready to harvest (that happens once per day). For finishing this first goal, you'll receive 100 XP, 2,500 coins and a Founder Sheep (dressed as a classic founding father from American history).
Sea Lion Search
Get 3 Tasty Fishes
Harvest 90 Cove Cranberries
Improve the Cove to Level 4
If you've been vigilant about adding Stones, Steel Beams and Logs to the Lighthouse Cove ever since the farm launched, you're likely already well beyond Level 4. That being the case, this task will be completed for you, allowing you to simply post a wall post for the Tasty Fishes and wait the 24 hours for your Cove Cranberries to be ready (or, if you're planning ahead, you could have them mostly grown or ready to harvest by this point as well). Finish this second goal and you'll receive 200 XP, 2,500 coins and a Sea Lion for your efforts.
Heritage Days
Get 3 Wrapped Candies
Make Fruit Cider Twice
Harvest 90 Chandler Blueberries
The Wrapped Candies are earned by asking your friends to send them to you, while the Fruit Cider takes the same bushels mentioned above: Red Currant, Cove Cranberry and Lady Slipper. As for the Chandler Blueberries, these ones take eight hours to grow. The rewards for this final goal are 300 XP, 2,500 coins and a spooky Mausoleum. This one may not necessarily scream Halloween, but when I think of Halloween, graveyards aren't so far behind, so I suppose it fits.
Once you've finished these three goals, you'll technically have completed Chapter 4, but there are always Bonus Challenges to complete as well. We'll have a guide for those harder goals (they aren't called "Challenges for nothing") as soon as we can.
What do you think of Chapter 4's goals? Do you appreciate their relative ease, or do you wish even they were more challenging?
A History of Fun!
Get 3 Candy Corn
Harvest Lighthouse Cove
Make Fruit Cider Twice
Candy Corn can be gathered by posted a general request on your news feed for all of your friends to respond to. As for the Fruit Cider, this recipe is made inside your Restaurant using two Cove Cranberry, three Red Currant and three Lady Slipper bushels each. You'll need to wait six hours for these to finish crafting, so that gives you a bit of time to wait for your Lighthouse Cove to become ready to harvest (that happens once per day). For finishing this first goal, you'll receive 100 XP, 2,500 coins and a Founder Sheep (dressed as a classic founding father from American history).
Sea Lion Search
Get 3 Tasty Fishes
Harvest 90 Cove Cranberries
Improve the Cove to Level 4
If you've been vigilant about adding Stones, Steel Beams and Logs to the Lighthouse Cove ever since the farm launched, you're likely already well beyond Level 4. That being the case, this task will be completed for you, allowing you to simply post a wall post for the Tasty Fishes and wait the 24 hours for your Cove Cranberries to be ready (or, if you're planning ahead, you could have them mostly grown or ready to harvest by this point as well). Finish this second goal and you'll receive 200 XP, 2,500 coins and a Sea Lion for your efforts.
Heritage Days
Get 3 Wrapped Candies
Make Fruit Cider Twice
Harvest 90 Chandler Blueberries
The Wrapped Candies are earned by asking your friends to send them to you, while the Fruit Cider takes the same bushels mentioned above: Red Currant, Cove Cranberry and Lady Slipper. As for the Chandler Blueberries, these ones take eight hours to grow. The rewards for this final goal are 300 XP, 2,500 coins and a spooky Mausoleum. This one may not necessarily scream Halloween, but when I think of Halloween, graveyards aren't so far behind, so I suppose it fits.
Once you've finished these three goals, you'll technically have completed Chapter 4, but there are always Bonus Challenges to complete as well. We'll have a guide for those harder goals (they aren't called "Challenges for nothing") as soon as we can.
What do you think of Chapter 4's goals? Do you appreciate their relative ease, or do you wish even they were more challenging?
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Chapter 4 Bonus Challenges: Everything you need to know
As we told you earlier this evening, Zynga has continued in the new tradition of goals in the Lighthouse Cove in FarmVille, releasing three goals for Chapter 4 of the third farm's story, and then releasing a set of harder "Bonus Challenges" for those farmers that really like a challenge (or just want extra prizes). In terms of Bonus Challenges, these seem to be fairly simple (all things considered), as they won't require you to expand your land. Still, there are quite a few crafting requirements here that might slow you down depending on how far you've upgraded your restaurant, so perhaps it all balances out. Either way, here's a complete guide to completing these three Bonus Challenges for Chapter 4. Good luck!
Bonus Challenge 1
Harvest 90 Cove Cranberries
Make Wild Blueberry Pie Twice
Improve the Cove to Level 5
If you've already passed Level 5 in repairing the Lighthouse Cove, this task will automatically be completed for you. Meanwhile, Wild Blueberry Pie is made inside your Restaurant using two Chandler Blueberry, three Wheat and two Rhubarb bushels each. Finally, Cove Cranberries take a full 24 hours to grow. Finish this first goal and you're given 500 XP, a German Shepherd (regular dog, not a puppy) and 2,500 coins.
Bonus Challenge 2
Complete an Aviary
Harvest Lighthouse ove
Make Black Raspberry Wine Twice
If you don't already have an Aviary on your Lighthouse Cove specifically, you'll need to build one to complete this goal (remember, these goals will disappear when visiting other farms, so even if you have multiples on other farms, that simply won't count for this goal). Either way, you can make the Black Raspberry Wine with three Raspberry, two White Grape and three Chandler Blueberry bushels each. Finishing this second goal gives you 1,000 XP, a Sebright Chicken and 2,500 coins.
Bonus Challenge 3
Harvest an Aviary
Harvest 110 Kennebec Potatoes
Make Dill Potato Skins Twice
Yet again, this one is about two things: birds and food. After you've built your Aviary for Bonus Challenge 2, waiting a day will see the building become ready to harvest, so long as you kept at least one bird inside it. You'll receive one for free, so just leave it in there and you're all set. As for the Dill Potato Skins, those are made using three Tomato, two Kennebec Potato and three Dill bushels each. Finishing this final Challenge goal will give you 1,000 XP, a Tide Pool with Crabs and another 2,500 coins.
As I said before, the challenge with these three Bonus Challenges doesn't look to come from land or even the growing of so many crops. What will likely be the biggest factor is how far you've upgrade your Restaurant. As certain recipes are only available as you upgrade your Restaurant (which is, in itself only possibly by crafting plenty of dishes, very often), you might have to take some time to catch up before really being able to put these three Bonus Challenges to bed. I wish you luck if you're trying to complete them all.
What do you think of these Chapter 4 Bonus Challenges? Are they the hardest ones yet, even if they don't require you to expand your land, or are you ready to tackle everything they ask of you?
Bonus Challenge 1
Harvest 90 Cove Cranberries
Make Wild Blueberry Pie Twice
Improve the Cove to Level 5
If you've already passed Level 5 in repairing the Lighthouse Cove, this task will automatically be completed for you. Meanwhile, Wild Blueberry Pie is made inside your Restaurant using two Chandler Blueberry, three Wheat and two Rhubarb bushels each. Finally, Cove Cranberries take a full 24 hours to grow. Finish this first goal and you're given 500 XP, a German Shepherd (regular dog, not a puppy) and 2,500 coins.
Bonus Challenge 2
Complete an Aviary
Harvest Lighthouse ove
Make Black Raspberry Wine Twice
If you don't already have an Aviary on your Lighthouse Cove specifically, you'll need to build one to complete this goal (remember, these goals will disappear when visiting other farms, so even if you have multiples on other farms, that simply won't count for this goal). Either way, you can make the Black Raspberry Wine with three Raspberry, two White Grape and three Chandler Blueberry bushels each. Finishing this second goal gives you 1,000 XP, a Sebright Chicken and 2,500 coins.
Bonus Challenge 3
Harvest an Aviary
Harvest 110 Kennebec Potatoes
Make Dill Potato Skins Twice
Yet again, this one is about two things: birds and food. After you've built your Aviary for Bonus Challenge 2, waiting a day will see the building become ready to harvest, so long as you kept at least one bird inside it. You'll receive one for free, so just leave it in there and you're all set. As for the Dill Potato Skins, those are made using three Tomato, two Kennebec Potato and three Dill bushels each. Finishing this final Challenge goal will give you 1,000 XP, a Tide Pool with Crabs and another 2,500 coins.
As I said before, the challenge with these three Bonus Challenges doesn't look to come from land or even the growing of so many crops. What will likely be the biggest factor is how far you've upgrade your Restaurant. As certain recipes are only available as you upgrade your Restaurant (which is, in itself only possibly by crafting plenty of dishes, very often), you might have to take some time to catch up before really being able to put these three Bonus Challenges to bed. I wish you luck if you're trying to complete them all.
What do you think of these Chapter 4 Bonus Challenges? Are they the hardest ones yet, even if they don't require you to expand your land, or are you ready to tackle everything they ask of you?
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Haunted Tree House, Nightmare Owl and more coming soon
If you thought the steady release of Halloween-themed items in FarmVille was something, Zynga looks to be saving even more items for later (perhaps later this week, or even in goals). This large group of decorations and items could come in many forms. While I'm sure most of them will be released in the store for purchase with either Farm Cash or coins, it's possible some of these items could be rewards for yet-to-be-released Halloween-themed goals, or as prizes in the expected Giant Jack O' Lantern event. On the more negative side of things, these images could just be related to goals, as collectibles we need to gather and not actually decorations at all. Either way, here's a complete look at all of these goodies, thanks to FarmVille Freak.
If you take a look at the image above, you can see the following: Purple Pumpkin Gnome, Spider Web Tree, Nightmare Owl, Yellow Pumpkin Snowman, Black Pumpkin Snowman, Monster Gnome, Pirate Gnome, Mad Scientist's Lab, Creepy Tree, and Haunted Tree House.
Again, I wish I could tell you exactly when these items will be released, but as of right now it's anyone's guess. Either way, we'll make sure to let you know when these items start releasing, and how exactly you can get them onto your farm (where applicable) just as soon as we know more. Keep checking back with us!
Check out the rest of our Halloween 2011 coverage right here.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
What do you think of these unreleased decorations? Are you more excited about Halloween decorations than you are animals?
If you take a look at the image above, you can see the following: Purple Pumpkin Gnome, Spider Web Tree, Nightmare Owl, Yellow Pumpkin Snowman, Black Pumpkin Snowman, Monster Gnome, Pirate Gnome, Mad Scientist's Lab, Creepy Tree, and Haunted Tree House.
Again, I wish I could tell you exactly when these items will be released, but as of right now it's anyone's guess. Either way, we'll make sure to let you know when these items start releasing, and how exactly you can get them onto your farm (where applicable) just as soon as we know more. Keep checking back with us!
Check out the rest of our Halloween 2011 coverage right here.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
What do you think of these unreleased decorations? Are you more excited about Halloween decorations than you are animals?
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Halloween animals like to play dress up
If you're both an animal collector and a fan of Halloween, I've got some exciting news for you! A whole slew of new themed animals look to be coming to FarmVille in the near future, if images spotted by FarmVille Freak are anything to go by. Of course, there's no telling exactly when or how these items will come to the game, although we can make a few guesses. It's likely that most will be released in the store for coins, while others may be prizes for Halloween themed goals that have yet to be released. Either way, here's a sneak preview of these items to get you excited about things to come.
In the image above, you have the Space Chipmunk (c'mon, just say that - it even sounds awesome!), Candle Deer, Bat Cat, Hunter Duck, Ghost Goat, Trick or Treat Donkey, Lobster Corgi, Skeleton Horse, Skeleton Sheep, and Candy Corn Sheep. While this group is pretty large on its own, don't forget about the unreleased decorations that we also think are coming, and don't forget that there have to be tons of trees in the works as well (I mean, there's no guarantee, but how can Zynga resist?).
While details about each of these items, and the role they'll play in the store/game are still unknown, you can be sure we'll make you the first to know when they start to release. Just be warned: if these items are released in the store as limited edition items, they'll likely cost Farm Cash. Have that wallet ready!
Check out the rest of our Halloween 2011 coverage right here.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
What do you think of these Halloween-themed animals? Which one is your favorite? Will you pay Farm Cash for any of them?
In the image above, you have the Space Chipmunk (c'mon, just say that - it even sounds awesome!), Candle Deer, Bat Cat, Hunter Duck, Ghost Goat, Trick or Treat Donkey, Lobster Corgi, Skeleton Horse, Skeleton Sheep, and Candy Corn Sheep. While this group is pretty large on its own, don't forget about the unreleased decorations that we also think are coming, and don't forget that there have to be tons of trees in the works as well (I mean, there's no guarantee, but how can Zynga resist?).
While details about each of these items, and the role they'll play in the store/game are still unknown, you can be sure we'll make you the first to know when they start to release. Just be warned: if these items are released in the store as limited edition items, they'll likely cost Farm Cash. Have that wallet ready!
Check out the rest of our Halloween 2011 coverage right here.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
What do you think of these Halloween-themed animals? Which one is your favorite? Will you pay Farm Cash for any of them?
Halloween Guide for FarmVille, The Sims Social, CityVille & more
Folks, Halloween is so underrated. Not only does it kick off the holiday season, but Halloween is an excuse for all of us to dress up, eat tons of candy, carve pumpkins, and watch scary movies. In addition, Halloween has infiltrated all our favorite Facebook games. FarmVille, The Sims Social, and CityVille have all received special Halloween promotions, Halloween items, and new Halloween features.
And that's just the beginning. Expect to see more Halloween-themed goodies from the other Facebook games right here. Check out our entire Halloween Guide below.
More recent Halloween updates appear at the top of each game list.
FarmVille Halloween | CityVille Halloween | The Sims Social Halloween
Pioneer Trail Halloween | Empires & Allies Halloween | Angry Birds Halloween
Cafe World Halloween | Other Halloween Updates
farmville halloween
FarmVille Halloween
FarmVille Mystery Game (10/30/11): Halloween items take a final stand
FarmVille Trick or Treat Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Trick or Treat: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Witch Costume, Halloween Candle Tree and more
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Pirate Bonus Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Black Cat Fence, Pumpkin Fountain and more
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Halloween Pirate Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Huge Jack-O'Lantern Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Dark Peach Tree, Black Guinea Pig and more
FarmVille Huge Jack-O'Lantern: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Ghost Bonus Challenges: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Black Mini Unicorn, Haunted Farm House and more
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Ghost Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille: Plant Black Tulips for Halloween
FarmVille Count Duckula's Castle Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Cookie Tree, Pumpkin Snowman, Mad Scientist Lab and more
FarmVille Count Duckula's Castle: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Zombie Gnome, Bat Dog, Mossy Tree and more
FarmVille: Free Skeleton Cow making the rounds
FarmVille Halloween Items: Dark Apple Tree, Batwing Horse, Bat Pumpkin and more
FarmVille Halloween Items: Nightmare Unicorn, Fire Peach Tree and more
FarmVille: Halloween Black Belgian horse available for coins
FarmVille Halloween Model Farm offers free Arborists and more
FarmVille Halloween items: Candy Corn Tree, Halloween Cottage, Jack-O'-Lantern and more
cityville halloween
CityVille Halloween
CityVille Energy Ghosts: Everything you need to know
CityVille Plagued Playground Community Building: Everything you need to know
CityVille Haunted Library Community Building: Everything you need to know
CityVille Halloween Monsters Act 3 Goals: Everything you need to know
CityVille: More Halloween homes, decorations and community buildings hit the store
CityVille Halloween Sweet Tooth Goal: Everything you need to know
CityVille Demented Dentist Community Building: Everything you need to know
CityVille Halloween Act 2 Goals made easier with smaller requirements
CityVille: Crypt Keeper's Crib added to Halloween extravaganza
CityVille Treats 'N Sweets Booth: Everything you need to know
CityVille Zombie ER: Everything you need to know
CityVille Tree of Enchantment: Everything you need to know
CityVille Haunted Hotel: Everything you need to know
CityVille Halloween Monster Mystery Game: Everything you need to know
CityVille Forsaken Fortress helps you finish goals for a price
CityVille's Halloween Decorating Contest offers big rewards for big scares
CityVille Mausoleum Community Building: Everything you need to know
CityVille Halloween Meet the Monsters Goals: Everything you need to know
CityVille Halloween Monsters: Everything you need to know
CityVille Governor's Run Vampire Goals: Everything you need to know
CityVille: Halloween Monster Ship shows up in city waters
CityVille Hometown Halloween update gives your city the spooky touch
the sims social halloween
The Sims Social Halloween
The Sims Social sets a spine-chilling scene with new Halloween images
The Sims Social Haunted House Week items punish friends' pranks
The Sims Social finally gets spooky in The Ultimate Horror Movie Week
The Sims Social celebrates Halloween with Werewolves vs Vampires week
frontierville pioneer trail halloween
FrontierVille Pioneer Trail Halloween
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town: Purchase limited edition items for a free Ghostly Horse
Pioneer Trail Halloween on the Homestead Contest: Walk away with 2,000 Horseshoes!
Pioneer Trail Trick or Treat Goals: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Spook Shack: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Haunted Homestead: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Family Secret Goals: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Halloween Store: Stock up on scary supplies in one place
Pioneer Trail Halloween Hutch: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town Haunted Garden: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town Giant Cauldron: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town Goals: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town feature coming soon [Video]
empires allies halloween
Empires & Allies Halloween
Empires & Allies: Halloween items now available in the store
angry birds halloween
Angry Birds Halloween
Angry Birds Halloween horror movie spoof channels Hitchcock [Video]
Angry Birds Seasons Halloween update means a new bird is in town
Something is a brewin' for the Angry Birds this Halloween [Video]
cafe world halloween
Cafe World Halloween
Cafe World Trick or Treat Party Catering Order: Everything you need to know
Cafe World Witch's Cauldron: Everything you need to know
Cafe World Halloween Siggy's Tricks Goals: Everything you need to know
Cafe World Halloween Amelia's Treats Goals: Everything you need to know
Cafe World Halloween Candy Bowl - Everything you need to know
Other Halloween Game Updates
The Top Five Spooky Facebook Games to Play Halloween Night
Adventure World Creepy Crypt Expedition: Everything you need to know
Adventure World Halloween Sneak Peek: Halloween Volcano coming soon
Nexon's next social game, Zombie Misfits, looks for brains on Facebook
Meteor Games makes Island Paradise an island terror for Halloween
PopCap says 'Happy Halloween' with pumpkins, zombies and ... a rave?
The Killer Pumpkin assaults Pocket God on Facebook this Halloween
Make sure to check back for more Halloween Facebook game updates! Which Halloween update was your favorite? Vote here!
And that's just the beginning. Expect to see more Halloween-themed goodies from the other Facebook games right here. Check out our entire Halloween Guide below.
More recent Halloween updates appear at the top of each game list.
FarmVille Halloween | CityVille Halloween | The Sims Social Halloween
Pioneer Trail Halloween | Empires & Allies Halloween | Angry Birds Halloween
Cafe World Halloween | Other Halloween Updates
farmville halloween
FarmVille Halloween
FarmVille Mystery Game (10/30/11): Halloween items take a final stand
FarmVille Trick or Treat Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Trick or Treat: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Witch Costume, Halloween Candle Tree and more
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Pirate Bonus Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Black Cat Fence, Pumpkin Fountain and more
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Halloween Pirate Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Huge Jack-O'Lantern Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Dark Peach Tree, Black Guinea Pig and more
FarmVille Huge Jack-O'Lantern: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Ghost Bonus Challenges: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Black Mini Unicorn, Haunted Farm House and more
FarmVille Lighthouse Cove Ghost Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille: Plant Black Tulips for Halloween
FarmVille Count Duckula's Castle Goals: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Cookie Tree, Pumpkin Snowman, Mad Scientist Lab and more
FarmVille Count Duckula's Castle: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Halloween Items: Zombie Gnome, Bat Dog, Mossy Tree and more
FarmVille: Free Skeleton Cow making the rounds
FarmVille Halloween Items: Dark Apple Tree, Batwing Horse, Bat Pumpkin and more
FarmVille Halloween Items: Nightmare Unicorn, Fire Peach Tree and more
FarmVille: Halloween Black Belgian horse available for coins
FarmVille Halloween Model Farm offers free Arborists and more
FarmVille Halloween items: Candy Corn Tree, Halloween Cottage, Jack-O'-Lantern and more
cityville halloween
CityVille Halloween
CityVille Energy Ghosts: Everything you need to know
CityVille Plagued Playground Community Building: Everything you need to know
CityVille Haunted Library Community Building: Everything you need to know
CityVille Halloween Monsters Act 3 Goals: Everything you need to know
CityVille: More Halloween homes, decorations and community buildings hit the store
CityVille Halloween Sweet Tooth Goal: Everything you need to know
CityVille Demented Dentist Community Building: Everything you need to know
CityVille Halloween Act 2 Goals made easier with smaller requirements
CityVille: Crypt Keeper's Crib added to Halloween extravaganza
CityVille Treats 'N Sweets Booth: Everything you need to know
CityVille Zombie ER: Everything you need to know
CityVille Tree of Enchantment: Everything you need to know
CityVille Haunted Hotel: Everything you need to know
CityVille Halloween Monster Mystery Game: Everything you need to know
CityVille Forsaken Fortress helps you finish goals for a price
CityVille's Halloween Decorating Contest offers big rewards for big scares
CityVille Mausoleum Community Building: Everything you need to know
CityVille Halloween Meet the Monsters Goals: Everything you need to know
CityVille Halloween Monsters: Everything you need to know
CityVille Governor's Run Vampire Goals: Everything you need to know
CityVille: Halloween Monster Ship shows up in city waters
CityVille Hometown Halloween update gives your city the spooky touch
the sims social halloween
The Sims Social Halloween
The Sims Social sets a spine-chilling scene with new Halloween images
The Sims Social Haunted House Week items punish friends' pranks
The Sims Social finally gets spooky in The Ultimate Horror Movie Week
The Sims Social celebrates Halloween with Werewolves vs Vampires week
frontierville pioneer trail halloween
FrontierVille Pioneer Trail Halloween
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town: Purchase limited edition items for a free Ghostly Horse
Pioneer Trail Halloween on the Homestead Contest: Walk away with 2,000 Horseshoes!
Pioneer Trail Trick or Treat Goals: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Spook Shack: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Haunted Homestead: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Family Secret Goals: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Halloween Store: Stock up on scary supplies in one place
Pioneer Trail Halloween Hutch: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town Haunted Garden: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town Giant Cauldron: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town Goals: Everything you need to know
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town feature coming soon [Video]
empires allies halloween
Empires & Allies Halloween
Empires & Allies: Halloween items now available in the store
angry birds halloween
Angry Birds Halloween
Angry Birds Halloween horror movie spoof channels Hitchcock [Video]
Angry Birds Seasons Halloween update means a new bird is in town
Something is a brewin' for the Angry Birds this Halloween [Video]
cafe world halloween
Cafe World Halloween
Cafe World Trick or Treat Party Catering Order: Everything you need to know
Cafe World Witch's Cauldron: Everything you need to know
Cafe World Halloween Siggy's Tricks Goals: Everything you need to know
Cafe World Halloween Amelia's Treats Goals: Everything you need to know
Cafe World Halloween Candy Bowl - Everything you need to know
Other Halloween Game Updates
The Top Five Spooky Facebook Games to Play Halloween Night
Adventure World Creepy Crypt Expedition: Everything you need to know
Adventure World Halloween Sneak Peek: Halloween Volcano coming soon
Nexon's next social game, Zombie Misfits, looks for brains on Facebook
Meteor Games makes Island Paradise an island terror for Halloween
PopCap says 'Happy Halloween' with pumpkins, zombies and ... a rave?
The Killer Pumpkin assaults Pocket God on Facebook this Halloween
Make sure to check back for more Halloween Facebook game updates! Which Halloween update was your favorite? Vote here!
Russian Little Helper maker Pixonic sets sights on Facebook, iPhones
Sure, Zynga has created some of the most popular social games around, but it has also created its own competition. (See: EA, Disney, Wooga.) Elena Masolova, the 27-year-old founder and CEO of Russian social (and mobile) game developer and publisher Pixonic, was inspired by the company's success in founding her own game company. Since its creation in 2009, the company has created 40 games for local and European networks, but has big plans for its global expansion.
Ahead of opening its third (and first international) office in San Francisco, Pixonic published Little Helper (pictured below) for iPhone and iPad. First released on Russian and European social networks, Little Helper is the mobile version of a simulator game similar to Pet Society, but with heavy Russian themes. Despite the visible cultural influences, Little Helper hit the U.S. top 10 free games chart in September, hopefully setting a precedent for future releases.
Pixonic is also slowly making headway on Facebook with The Island: Castaway, a farming-type social game that proved largely successful on local Russian networks. While it's unfortunately not doing so well on Facebook at the moment, according to AppData, Masolova looks to make a splash in the U.S. and around the globe the old-fashioned way.
Little Helper
"I don't think there's some secret sauce--you just need to make high-quality games that promote themselves," Masolova tells us. "Second, you need to be very numbers-oriented in marketing. I think it's a numbers game, and you need to look at the numbers constantly. The goal by the end of the year is to launch several high-quality games on Facebook."
The Russian game creator and publisher also looks to bring six of its most popular social games to iOS and Android devices, likely in the same vein as Little Helper, which was developed for Pixonic by MobyTail. However, Masolova says that the company has its 46 plus employees working on three mobile games from scratch. Despite coming into the Facebook and mobile games space just as the big players begin to exert their dominance, Masolova is confident that Pixonic will succeed.
"For the first three months of the company's existence, we were focused on Russian markets in social networks," Masolova says. "I think for the time it was the right decision, but now we can move to Facebook and other networks and feel very comfortable there."
Have you played any of Pixonic's games before? Do you think the Russian developer/publisher has a shot at making it big on Facebook and mobile?
Ahead of opening its third (and first international) office in San Francisco, Pixonic published Little Helper (pictured below) for iPhone and iPad. First released on Russian and European social networks, Little Helper is the mobile version of a simulator game similar to Pet Society, but with heavy Russian themes. Despite the visible cultural influences, Little Helper hit the U.S. top 10 free games chart in September, hopefully setting a precedent for future releases.
Pixonic is also slowly making headway on Facebook with The Island: Castaway, a farming-type social game that proved largely successful on local Russian networks. While it's unfortunately not doing so well on Facebook at the moment, according to AppData, Masolova looks to make a splash in the U.S. and around the globe the old-fashioned way.
Little Helper
"I don't think there's some secret sauce--you just need to make high-quality games that promote themselves," Masolova tells us. "Second, you need to be very numbers-oriented in marketing. I think it's a numbers game, and you need to look at the numbers constantly. The goal by the end of the year is to launch several high-quality games on Facebook."
The Russian game creator and publisher also looks to bring six of its most popular social games to iOS and Android devices, likely in the same vein as Little Helper, which was developed for Pixonic by MobyTail. However, Masolova says that the company has its 46 plus employees working on three mobile games from scratch. Despite coming into the Facebook and mobile games space just as the big players begin to exert their dominance, Masolova is confident that Pixonic will succeed.
"For the first three months of the company's existence, we were focused on Russian markets in social networks," Masolova says. "I think for the time it was the right decision, but now we can move to Facebook and other networks and feel very comfortable there."
Have you played any of Pixonic's games before? Do you think the Russian developer/publisher has a shot at making it big on Facebook and mobile?
Island Paradise makes Turkey a bit more tropical through Peak Games
And in directly related news, productivity levels of Turkish businesses plummet by as much as 90 percent. Social game developer Meteor Games announced that its hit Island Paradise is now available in Turkish on Facebook, thanks to a deal with Peak Games. The Istanbul-based company will make the game available through Ciftlik Adasi, which appears to be a full Turkish localization.
According to its Facebook page, Ciftlik Adasi--the Turkish Island Paradise that translates roughly to Farm Island--has already garnered over 123,000 thousand players since its launch on Sept. 30. And it makes sense: Turkey is the fourth-largest region for Facebook with over 30 million users.
And with just over 634,000 monthly Island Paradise players on Facebook, Meteor Games is playing it smart by expanding into new territories to boost its player base. The Beverly Hills, Calif.-based social game creator likens itself to the Nintendo of the Facebook game world, and scale is one approach to take in order to make good on that comparison.
Peak Games however, has reportedly amassed over 16 million monthly players across its games by making the international rounds with big time western developers like RockYou and now Meteor Games. Facebook games are growing beyond the scope of the U.S. and Western Europe, but we can only hope that will make for more culturally diverse social games.
Do you think Meteor Games made a smart move in expanding into Turkey through Peak Games? Do you think the social games space needs more culturally diverse games?
According to its Facebook page, Ciftlik Adasi--the Turkish Island Paradise that translates roughly to Farm Island--has already garnered over 123,000 thousand players since its launch on Sept. 30. And it makes sense: Turkey is the fourth-largest region for Facebook with over 30 million users.
And with just over 634,000 monthly Island Paradise players on Facebook, Meteor Games is playing it smart by expanding into new territories to boost its player base. The Beverly Hills, Calif.-based social game creator likens itself to the Nintendo of the Facebook game world, and scale is one approach to take in order to make good on that comparison.
Peak Games however, has reportedly amassed over 16 million monthly players across its games by making the international rounds with big time western developers like RockYou and now Meteor Games. Facebook games are growing beyond the scope of the U.S. and Western Europe, but we can only hope that will make for more culturally diverse social games.
Do you think Meteor Games made a smart move in expanding into Turkey through Peak Games? Do you think the social games space needs more culturally diverse games?
Game of the Day: Shutter Island
shutter island game of the dayUncover the dark secrets of Shutter Island, the eerie Hidden Object thriller based on the suspense-filled movie. U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels and his new partner have come to Shutter Island, home of Ashecliffe Hospital for the Criminally Insane, to investigate the disappearance of a patient, despite having been kept in a locked cell under constant surveillance. But nothing at Ashecliffe Hospital is as it seems, and disappearing patients isn't the only secret the island hides.
Spooky stuff folks, ripe for the Halloween season. Unfortunately, you're only going to get to play a couple of levels in the trial version. But if you manage to progress through without using any hints, I think you're ready for the full game. Think you're a hidden-object master? Then see if you can solve the mysteries of Shutter Island.
Click here to play Shutter Island!
shutter island game of the day shutter island game of the day
Were you able to make it through the first few levels without using any hints?
Spooky stuff folks, ripe for the Halloween season. Unfortunately, you're only going to get to play a couple of levels in the trial version. But if you manage to progress through without using any hints, I think you're ready for the full game. Think you're a hidden-object master? Then see if you can solve the mysteries of Shutter Island.
Click here to play Shutter Island!
shutter island game of the day shutter island game of the day
Were you able to make it through the first few levels without using any hints?
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Game of the Day: Factory Balls 2
factory balls 2 game of the dayToday's Game of the Day is an incredibly unique puzzle game. In Factory Balls 2 you'll have to match your creation to the image on the shipping box. In order to match the picture you have to drag and drop your ball over the icons and tools lining the work space. Each time you drop your ball on an icon, it will change it in some way. Try combining various icons, such as a belt and paint, to create different results.
Folks, in Factory Balls 2, you can randomly mix and match all you want, but it just won't work forever. You'll have to use some careful planning and thinking to replicate the product on the box. It might take a couple of tries, but eventually with the right strategy, I'm sure you'll solve the puzzles. Clearing each level is incredibly satisfying. However, if you figure out how to clear level 25, please let me know. Good luck!
Click here to play Factory Balls 2!
factory balls 2 game of the day factory balls 2 game of the day
What level were you able to get to in Factory Balls 2?
Folks, in Factory Balls 2, you can randomly mix and match all you want, but it just won't work forever. You'll have to use some careful planning and thinking to replicate the product on the box. It might take a couple of tries, but eventually with the right strategy, I'm sure you'll solve the puzzles. Clearing each level is incredibly satisfying. However, if you figure out how to clear level 25, please let me know. Good luck!
Click here to play Factory Balls 2!
factory balls 2 game of the day factory balls 2 game of the day
What level were you able to get to in Factory Balls 2?
CastleVille Cheats and Tips: Five easy ways to get ahead
The next major 'Ville in Zynga's flagship franchise is finally here: CastleVille. The game launched just a day ago (as of this writing) and already players are knee-deep into building their kingdoms granted by the Duke. Sure, there are quests to follow that will guide players along in their quest for the ultimate kingdom, but there are more ... subtle ways to ensure your rise to greatness is a smooth one. Here are five easy ways to get ahead in CastleVille:
Location, Location, Location
The first time you expand the boundaries of your kingdom in CastleVille is a scripted experience designed to show you how the process works, and what it takes to expand even further. What the game doesn't tell you, however, is that there's a smart way to expand your kingdom. Each plot of land surrounding you has a different amount of Castle Level needed to expand into.
At first, you might be enticed to expand into that piece of property that requires a mere 20 Castle Level to expand into, but stop right there. The key to expanding your kingdom quickly is to save those Coins and Exploration Crystals for when you have enough Castle Points to expand where it counts. The quick rule of thumb is to expand in the general direction of grayed-out characters waiting to be saved.
CastleVille Expansion
This is because the sooner you come in contact with new characters, the sooner you'll have new quests to complete. Take the image above, for instance. Expanding into that Wishing Well requires a hefty 80 Castle Points, but if you focus on expanding there first, you'll both unlock a new item for use in your kingdom and be one step closer to Alistair, a major character with quests for you.
CastleVille crops
Water Makes the Flowers Grow
Of course farming is a feature in CastleVille--it wouldn't be a 'Ville game without it. However, farming in this game serves multiple purposes, and it benefits from, again, smart positioning. When a crop is near a body of water such as a lake, river or even a well, the time it takes for that crop to ripen is reduced. As you can see the image above, I've planted crops all around my first lake, which as a result will score me more coins and other resources even faster.
CastleVille Lumber Mill
Can't Chop Wood Without Trees
You'll soon come to find that smart positioning will be your greatest asset in CastleVille, and the same applies for gathering the game's three primary resources: Wood, Stones and Ore. Once you're able to place the Lumber Mill and Mining Camp, it's best to place them near trees and stones on your property, respectively. Just like crops placed near water, these buildings will produce their respective resources more quickly when near the source.
Everything Can Be Made Better Through Design
That adage doesn't ring more true in any Zynga game than CastleVille. This is because you can quite literally move everything in your kingdom. Don't like there those rocks are? Move 'em. Want to move that lake closer to your crops? Done. How about moving all of the trees in your kingdom to surround your Lumber Mills for a massive bonus? Now we're talking. Use the handy "Move" tool to your advantage--it could turn your kingdom into a resource power house.
CastleVille items
Save-A-Lot
No, it's just not a discount supermarket. As goes with most Zynga games, saving the items you find can go a long way. When you receive items like Carrots from harvests and Water Pales from fishing, don't immediately turn them into new items through crafting. It's best to wait until you have a relevant quest, as spending those items early on combined items you don't necessarily need at the moment will simply end up wasting your time.
Do you have any tips for your fellow Dukes and Duchesses to advance in CastleVille even faster?
Location, Location, Location
The first time you expand the boundaries of your kingdom in CastleVille is a scripted experience designed to show you how the process works, and what it takes to expand even further. What the game doesn't tell you, however, is that there's a smart way to expand your kingdom. Each plot of land surrounding you has a different amount of Castle Level needed to expand into.
At first, you might be enticed to expand into that piece of property that requires a mere 20 Castle Level to expand into, but stop right there. The key to expanding your kingdom quickly is to save those Coins and Exploration Crystals for when you have enough Castle Points to expand where it counts. The quick rule of thumb is to expand in the general direction of grayed-out characters waiting to be saved.
CastleVille Expansion
This is because the sooner you come in contact with new characters, the sooner you'll have new quests to complete. Take the image above, for instance. Expanding into that Wishing Well requires a hefty 80 Castle Points, but if you focus on expanding there first, you'll both unlock a new item for use in your kingdom and be one step closer to Alistair, a major character with quests for you.
CastleVille crops
Water Makes the Flowers Grow
Of course farming is a feature in CastleVille--it wouldn't be a 'Ville game without it. However, farming in this game serves multiple purposes, and it benefits from, again, smart positioning. When a crop is near a body of water such as a lake, river or even a well, the time it takes for that crop to ripen is reduced. As you can see the image above, I've planted crops all around my first lake, which as a result will score me more coins and other resources even faster.
CastleVille Lumber Mill
Can't Chop Wood Without Trees
You'll soon come to find that smart positioning will be your greatest asset in CastleVille, and the same applies for gathering the game's three primary resources: Wood, Stones and Ore. Once you're able to place the Lumber Mill and Mining Camp, it's best to place them near trees and stones on your property, respectively. Just like crops placed near water, these buildings will produce their respective resources more quickly when near the source.
Everything Can Be Made Better Through Design
That adage doesn't ring more true in any Zynga game than CastleVille. This is because you can quite literally move everything in your kingdom. Don't like there those rocks are? Move 'em. Want to move that lake closer to your crops? Done. How about moving all of the trees in your kingdom to surround your Lumber Mills for a massive bonus? Now we're talking. Use the handy "Move" tool to your advantage--it could turn your kingdom into a resource power house.
CastleVille items
Save-A-Lot
No, it's just not a discount supermarket. As goes with most Zynga games, saving the items you find can go a long way. When you receive items like Carrots from harvests and Water Pales from fishing, don't immediately turn them into new items through crafting. It's best to wait until you have a relevant quest, as spending those items early on combined items you don't necessarily need at the moment will simply end up wasting your time.
Do you have any tips for your fellow Dukes and Duchesses to advance in CastleVille even faster?
FarmVille Pic of the Day: Head for the hills on Ploughman's valley farm
While it may not be as awesome as a replica of Hill Valley, Ploughman's ability to turn his flat, FarmVille farm into a valley of hills is still quite a sight. He calls it "FairyVale", but what stands out when you look at his farm aren't the pockets of Lady Gaga decor (see the Bedazzled Cottage in the southeast), but the large buildings topping each rounded apex like candles on a cake.
On the highest elevation of this farm sits the King Castle, completed with Gatehouses, Tower Bridges, and Castle Tower (from the English Countryside event). The Dutch Windmill rules the vantage of the east, while the English Castle, a reward from one of the Duke's many castle quests, sits to the west. Sandwiched between those two, is a central valley where you'll find a fully built Haunted Mansion from last year's Halloween with the Leprechaun's Cottage south of that.
Do you like Ploughman's design enough to copy it for your own farm? Sound off in the comments. Add Comment
If you have an AWESOME FarmVille farm that you want to see featured on Games.com, please email a picture to editors@games.com, Include a few words about the inspiration for your design and maybe a few tips for people who need an assist!
On the highest elevation of this farm sits the King Castle, completed with Gatehouses, Tower Bridges, and Castle Tower (from the English Countryside event). The Dutch Windmill rules the vantage of the east, while the English Castle, a reward from one of the Duke's many castle quests, sits to the west. Sandwiched between those two, is a central valley where you'll find a fully built Haunted Mansion from last year's Halloween with the Leprechaun's Cottage south of that.
Do you like Ploughman's design enough to copy it for your own farm? Sound off in the comments. Add Comment
If you have an AWESOME FarmVille farm that you want to see featured on Games.com, please email a picture to editors@games.com, Include a few words about the inspiration for your design and maybe a few tips for people who need an assist!
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