With players recently flocking away from Zynga's Farmville by the millions, some wondered if the top social gaming company had lost a little bit of its luster. Well, if the early success of Farmville successor Frontierville is any indication, that luster is still plenty shiny, thanks very much.
According to AppData (via InsideSocialGames), Frontierville has gaining an incredible 5.4 million monthly users over the last week, a 656% increase from the partial-week launch of the five days previous. Most of the gains came between between June 17 and 19 when Frontierville's users shot up from about 1.5 million to over 6 million, possibly due to a recent change in the way Facebook reports active users.
Among other notable gainers, EA Sports/Playfish's FIFA Superstars continues to capitalize on World Cup fever worldwide (though possibly not as much as EA would have liked) with over 600,000 new users, a 52% jump. And somewhat long-in-the-tooth game School of Wizardry saw a surprising jump this week, gaining over 500,000 users after weeks of anemic growth (we suspect the aforementioned Facebook data reporting change).
Showing posts with label Playfish. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Playfish. Show all posts
Monday, February 13, 2012
Can other games mimic FIFA Superstars' World Cup success?
As mentioned in our discussion of the week's top gaining Facebook games, EA Sports/Playfish's FIFA Superstars has seen some relatively healthy growth since launching just a few weeks ago. No doubt the FIFA branding (and the support of a major company like EA) has helped the game stand out from the crowd. But there may be an external reason for the game's recent success -- the World Cup.
As VentureBeat's Dean Takahashi recently noticed, the game has logged over 3.3 million World Cup match predictions since launching near the start of the tournament. The predictions have ranged from prescient (97% picked Brazil over North Korea) to horribly wrong (only 1.6% picked Switzerland beating Spain) but these guesses are notable more for their volume than their predictive ability. For possibly the first time, a real world sporting event is driving interest in a virtual social game, thanks in part to clever integration from the developers.
If FIFA Superstars' success continues throughout the tournament, we can probably expect other developers to try to capitalize on real world sporting events to drive interest in their games. Already Sports illustrated has plans for Facebook-powered Fantasy Football when that sport starts up again, and a few other developers are dipping their toes in the social sports waters.
But why stop at sports? With their quick development times, social games could be deployed to coincide with all sorts of topical real world events, from elections to awards shows. If people are talking about it, it only stands to reason that people would want to game about it too.
This kind of topical gaming is definitely an intriguing potential trend to watch out for in the social games space going forward, and we intend to do just that.
As VentureBeat's Dean Takahashi recently noticed, the game has logged over 3.3 million World Cup match predictions since launching near the start of the tournament. The predictions have ranged from prescient (97% picked Brazil over North Korea) to horribly wrong (only 1.6% picked Switzerland beating Spain) but these guesses are notable more for their volume than their predictive ability. For possibly the first time, a real world sporting event is driving interest in a virtual social game, thanks in part to clever integration from the developers.
If FIFA Superstars' success continues throughout the tournament, we can probably expect other developers to try to capitalize on real world sporting events to drive interest in their games. Already Sports illustrated has plans for Facebook-powered Fantasy Football when that sport starts up again, and a few other developers are dipping their toes in the social sports waters.
But why stop at sports? With their quick development times, social games could be deployed to coincide with all sorts of topical real world events, from elections to awards shows. If people are talking about it, it only stands to reason that people would want to game about it too.
This kind of topical gaming is definitely an intriguing potential trend to watch out for in the social games space going forward, and we intend to do just that.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
The Sims Social Cheats and Tips: How to Build Your Own Ponds, Lakes, etc
Want to design your own amazing, custom pond in The Sims Social? How about a castle moat, a river house, or even a beach? Then get ready to love rocks and rugs!
Recently, we covered a popular workaround invented by players called "stacking". But decorative waterways require a trick called "grouping" or "merging", something the game isn't designed to let you do. But as always, gamers are an innovative bunch.
Basically, every item in the game takes up tile space. One item would take up one tile space no matter how small or skinny it is. For example, a scrawny bamboo tree would take up as much space as a big fat boulder. But "grouping" allows you to pack items more closely together. Sometimes, you can pack them so close, they even overlap. For example, you can have a whole field of flowers clustered together, instead of being forced into spaced out rows. This gives you more natural-looking designs. And the secret of grouping or merging is rugs. Lots and lots of rugs. If you put down rugs, then put stuff on top of the rugs, then stuff can be placed closer together.
Pond Building Supplies:
(Note: How much you need of the following depends on the size of the pond you want to make.)
The best rug for the job is any of the circular 2x2 ones in the Decorations section of the game store: Aqua Rug, Cream Rug, or Scarlet Rug for 125 Simoleons each. You're going to need a lot of them and they're cheap. Next up for purchase are a handful of large 3x2 rugs. I've got several Fiesta Rugs for this, but you'll have to get something similar, as they're no longer in the game store. A good substitute is the Walk-On Soviet (it's bright red) which costs only 250 Simoleons each and is also in Decorations.
Now, you'll need rocks. More rocks than rugs. The game used to have a wonderful variety of rocks for this, particularly the Big Basalt Rock, Rock of Ages, and Limestone Boulder. But during a recent store clean-up, Playfish took the rocks away, so now we're down to (oh, irony) a rock called "Rock and Hard Place", priced for 60 Simoleons each in the Outdoor section of the store. Because of this, round plants, such as bushes and Lithodora (150 Simoleons) are valued as a good substitute, as well as being a great way to brighten up your pond's borders.
The last essential are Aqua Carpet tiles, which you can find in the Build tab within the store for 20 Simoleons each. It's the most realistic item for mimicking water in the game.
Sims Social Aqua Carpet
This last bit is entirely up to you, but most people like to decorate the inside of their water. Clover (costs 80 Simoleons, found in Outdoors section) is extremely popular, as is the Pink Flamingo (100 Simoleons; Outdoors). For something more high-end, there's the Dolphin Topiary (4,500 Simoleons; Outdoors buildable) or a Font Of All Awesome (2,250 Simoleons; Outdoors buildable).
If that seems like a lot to you, don't fret. If you're ready, I'm going to tell you what to do with all that stuff. With stacking, building is as hard as preparing. Lucky for us, after you've gathered your supplies, making the ponds are a snap.
Sims Social make a pond
Step 1: Start putting down rugs so that you've got a big body and then a bunch of little ones surround it. (See the above screenshot for an example.) Make sure you have the rugs right where you want the boulders. Don't overlap the bigger rugs or you'll have issues. Plug gaps and round out edges using the smaller rugs. Lumpy borders look more natural than straight edges.
Step 2: Add the bushes, flowers, and/or rocks to build the edges of your pond. Rotate some of the rocks so they won't look totally identical. Keep the items on the edge sitting on the carpet. Make sure to arrange the edge in a way that plugs all the empty spaces -- you won't want your 'water' to look like it's leaking out.
Step 3: Start laying down decorations inside your pond, such as the Clover or Blossom Fall (costs 400 Social Points; Outdoors). I bought a Skelemingo during the Halloween event, so I used that too. When you're done, you should have something that looks like the screenshot below.
Sims Social Build a Pond
Step 4: Go to the Tiles section in the Build tab and select the Aqua Carpet tile. Drag your mouse to highlight the areas of your pond you want the tiles to fill. If you planned this right, the unevenly placed rocks and bushes should hide the even edges of the carpet tiles.
Sims Social pond
Step 5: Remove the rugs and you're done! (Also, notice that I added a Pink Rose Trellis? If you want to do that too, do it before you take the rugs away. It's because the rugs are there that allow you to place the trellis so close to the pond.)
Special thanks to zoobeast for the original idea. For more inspiration, I highly recommend visiting the "Show off your ponds!" thread in The Sims Social official forum. You'll be drooling over how pretty everything is.
[Top Image Credit: HanHen]
Have you mastered pond building yet? What other water-based ideas can you think up for decorating a home in The Sims Social?
Recently, we covered a popular workaround invented by players called "stacking". But decorative waterways require a trick called "grouping" or "merging", something the game isn't designed to let you do. But as always, gamers are an innovative bunch.
Basically, every item in the game takes up tile space. One item would take up one tile space no matter how small or skinny it is. For example, a scrawny bamboo tree would take up as much space as a big fat boulder. But "grouping" allows you to pack items more closely together. Sometimes, you can pack them so close, they even overlap. For example, you can have a whole field of flowers clustered together, instead of being forced into spaced out rows. This gives you more natural-looking designs. And the secret of grouping or merging is rugs. Lots and lots of rugs. If you put down rugs, then put stuff on top of the rugs, then stuff can be placed closer together.
Pond Building Supplies:
(Note: How much you need of the following depends on the size of the pond you want to make.)
The best rug for the job is any of the circular 2x2 ones in the Decorations section of the game store: Aqua Rug, Cream Rug, or Scarlet Rug for 125 Simoleons each. You're going to need a lot of them and they're cheap. Next up for purchase are a handful of large 3x2 rugs. I've got several Fiesta Rugs for this, but you'll have to get something similar, as they're no longer in the game store. A good substitute is the Walk-On Soviet (it's bright red) which costs only 250 Simoleons each and is also in Decorations.
Now, you'll need rocks. More rocks than rugs. The game used to have a wonderful variety of rocks for this, particularly the Big Basalt Rock, Rock of Ages, and Limestone Boulder. But during a recent store clean-up, Playfish took the rocks away, so now we're down to (oh, irony) a rock called "Rock and Hard Place", priced for 60 Simoleons each in the Outdoor section of the store. Because of this, round plants, such as bushes and Lithodora (150 Simoleons) are valued as a good substitute, as well as being a great way to brighten up your pond's borders.
The last essential are Aqua Carpet tiles, which you can find in the Build tab within the store for 20 Simoleons each. It's the most realistic item for mimicking water in the game.
Sims Social Aqua Carpet
This last bit is entirely up to you, but most people like to decorate the inside of their water. Clover (costs 80 Simoleons, found in Outdoors section) is extremely popular, as is the Pink Flamingo (100 Simoleons; Outdoors). For something more high-end, there's the Dolphin Topiary (4,500 Simoleons; Outdoors buildable) or a Font Of All Awesome (2,250 Simoleons; Outdoors buildable).
If that seems like a lot to you, don't fret. If you're ready, I'm going to tell you what to do with all that stuff. With stacking, building is as hard as preparing. Lucky for us, after you've gathered your supplies, making the ponds are a snap.
Sims Social make a pond
Step 1: Start putting down rugs so that you've got a big body and then a bunch of little ones surround it. (See the above screenshot for an example.) Make sure you have the rugs right where you want the boulders. Don't overlap the bigger rugs or you'll have issues. Plug gaps and round out edges using the smaller rugs. Lumpy borders look more natural than straight edges.
Step 2: Add the bushes, flowers, and/or rocks to build the edges of your pond. Rotate some of the rocks so they won't look totally identical. Keep the items on the edge sitting on the carpet. Make sure to arrange the edge in a way that plugs all the empty spaces -- you won't want your 'water' to look like it's leaking out.
Step 3: Start laying down decorations inside your pond, such as the Clover or Blossom Fall (costs 400 Social Points; Outdoors). I bought a Skelemingo during the Halloween event, so I used that too. When you're done, you should have something that looks like the screenshot below.
Sims Social Build a Pond
Step 4: Go to the Tiles section in the Build tab and select the Aqua Carpet tile. Drag your mouse to highlight the areas of your pond you want the tiles to fill. If you planned this right, the unevenly placed rocks and bushes should hide the even edges of the carpet tiles.
Sims Social pond
Step 5: Remove the rugs and you're done! (Also, notice that I added a Pink Rose Trellis? If you want to do that too, do it before you take the rugs away. It's because the rugs are there that allow you to place the trellis so close to the pond.)
Special thanks to zoobeast for the original idea. For more inspiration, I highly recommend visiting the "Show off your ponds!" thread in The Sims Social official forum. You'll be drooling over how pretty everything is.
[Top Image Credit: HanHen]
Have you mastered pond building yet? What other water-based ideas can you think up for decorating a home in The Sims Social?
The Sims Social enjoys the holidays in style in Festive Chic Week
Another week, another update to Playfish's The Sims Social. This fourth and final holiday-themed weekly update, Festive Chic Week, is all about looking your absolute best in time for Christmas. Lots of modern-style outfits and furniture has appeared in the game, painting Little Haven in the most cheery shade of red. Along with the usual myriad of goodies to buy are some quests.
However, not exactly in the same way they're normally presented. Rather than create some overarching storyline for this week's series of quests, Playfish went ahead and added different quests to complete each day throughout the week. (However, as of this writing, none of said quests have appeared in The Sims Social for this writer.) Each quest is promised to grant players fantastic rewards.
In addition to the slew of new items to collect (most of which for SimCash, sadly), Playfish has introduced a new Daily Bonus. On top of winning up to 10 SimCash every five days, players have the chance of winning up to two Mystery Boxes for logging in five days consecutively. In short, you'll be up to your knees in things to do this weekend in The Sims Social ... just remember this Sunday is family time.
[Image Credit: Playfish]
Are you psyched to dive into this new holiday content in The iIms Social, or have you grown bored of the updates?
However, not exactly in the same way they're normally presented. Rather than create some overarching storyline for this week's series of quests, Playfish went ahead and added different quests to complete each day throughout the week. (However, as of this writing, none of said quests have appeared in The Sims Social for this writer.) Each quest is promised to grant players fantastic rewards.
In addition to the slew of new items to collect (most of which for SimCash, sadly), Playfish has introduced a new Daily Bonus. On top of winning up to 10 SimCash every five days, players have the chance of winning up to two Mystery Boxes for logging in five days consecutively. In short, you'll be up to your knees in things to do this weekend in The Sims Social ... just remember this Sunday is family time.
[Image Credit: Playfish]
Are you psyched to dive into this new holiday content in The iIms Social, or have you grown bored of the updates?
Nothing says The Sims Social like a creepy pink deer head, huh?
Looks like 27 million monthly players aren't enough to assuage Playfish's desire for more fans on their Facebook page for The Sims Social.
It's been a half-year since Playfish has attempted a fan counter boost by luring in folks with free items. Currently, the Facebook game's page has 7.2 million fans, but Playfish would like to see it close the breach to 8 million.
As an incentive, they've been running a banner ad for pink deer head wall mount above The Sims Social game, announcing that everyone will get a free deer head when the game's page reaches 8 million 'Likes'. Another reminder popped up on the Facebook page during the weekend, only this time, they specify it's a "FREE FAKE REINDEER" instead.
Frankly, they can call it whatever they want. Nothing changes the fact that it's pink, it's a head of a deer, it's looks very much dead, and it's one of the most bizarre giveaway items ever conceived, if not downright freakish. I can't imagine many people wanting this, even if it's free. They better make this deer head sing -- something completely within their power to do so -- to make it worthwhile.
Do you think that whoever came up with this free pink deer head idea is bonkers? What should a Facebook game page offer to get you to 'Like' it and follow it?
It's been a half-year since Playfish has attempted a fan counter boost by luring in folks with free items. Currently, the Facebook game's page has 7.2 million fans, but Playfish would like to see it close the breach to 8 million.
As an incentive, they've been running a banner ad for pink deer head wall mount above The Sims Social game, announcing that everyone will get a free deer head when the game's page reaches 8 million 'Likes'. Another reminder popped up on the Facebook page during the weekend, only this time, they specify it's a "FREE FAKE REINDEER" instead.
Frankly, they can call it whatever they want. Nothing changes the fact that it's pink, it's a head of a deer, it's looks very much dead, and it's one of the most bizarre giveaway items ever conceived, if not downright freakish. I can't imagine many people wanting this, even if it's free. They better make this deer head sing -- something completely within their power to do so -- to make it worthwhile.
Do you think that whoever came up with this free pink deer head idea is bonkers? What should a Facebook game page offer to get you to 'Like' it and follow it?
Three ways for The Sims Social to give CityVille the boot
The Sims Social is still a top five game on Facebook, according to AppData, but it was so damn close to fulfilling one of our predictions for 2011. EA and Playfish's incredibly strong answer to Zynga threatened to topple CityVille's ivory tower just months ago, but failed. So, where did the momentum go? Is The Sims Social simply a victim of the common decline almost all social games suffer over time, or can something be done to reverse the damage and take the fight back to Zynga?
Sure, EA could increase cross-promotion of The Sims Social across its existing Playfish and PopCap-made social games (not to mention increase advertisement efforts in EA properties across the board). But we think there are changes to be made within the game that could draw former players back in. Here are three ways to The Sims Social could take the fight back to CityVille:
Time to Go Mobile
And no, not just because all the cool kids are doing it. The Sims Social once had an incredible amount of daily players, and we're sure more daily players would have stuck around if they could somehow access their "Little Me in Little Haven" through their iPhone or Android phone. How great would it be to tend to the more boring aspects of The Sims Social, like leveling up your Sim's writing or music skills, while in a meeting or in line at the grocery store?
The Sims FreePlay came dangerously close to this, and frankly we're surprised this version was released before a FarmVille mobile-esque version of The Sims Social hit the iPhone. The fact that The Sims FreePlay, while obviously not created by Playfish, has no connection to the Facebook game whatsoever is a sorely missed opportunity to both keep existing players interested and perhaps rekindle old flames.
The Sims artist
Support Your Artists
Most successful social games tend to have an inspiring effect on their players, and The Sims Social is no exception. Just take a look at the vibrant tile art and stacking communities, and you'll see what we mean. Now, this isn't to say that Playfish doesn't recognize its more creative players at all--a glance at the game's many forum contests will attest to that. But we're talking about something far more integrated and unprecedented in simulator-style social games.
If Playfish were to introduce game mechanics to The Sims Social that helped recognize these artists game-wide--not just on the forums or the game's Facebook fan page--that would set The Sims Social leaps and bounds ahead of the competition. For instance, imagine being able to take snapshots of your own stacking or tile artwork in the game and submit them to a weekly contest. All of the submissions would be viewable from within the game through, say, a Sim's TV and voted upon. The winners would then have their work featured on a daily bulletin for all to see. Inspire players to keep creating, competing and thus playing.
The Sims car
Boredom Busters
To that end, players simply need more things to do in The Sims Social. Since the game's launch, new quests and items have been introduced almost every week, but it's sad to say that's not enough. Players need drastic change to remain interested, and by "drastic" we mean game-changing content.
If your Sim could work a job, drive a car to new places and own a vacation home, would that not get you excited to play The Sims Social again? Playfish's social life simulator brought new ideas to the table when it came to intimate, asynchronous interaction between friends. Perhaps some sort of public asynchronous interaction is in order. What if Sims could hit up the bar or club and somehow asynchronously interact with multiple friends at the same time?
The long and short of it is this: We're obviously no game designers, but we are players of social games, and we know what (at least some of) the players might want. While a lot of these issues are those of scale when compared to the mighty Zynga, The Sims Social made it this far. And if Playfish wants to continue to compete on that level, it needs to provide content and features of that scale.
What do you think The Sims Social needs to thrive in the high end of the top five again? Does Playfish's best game yet have a chance of challenging CityVille again?
Sure, EA could increase cross-promotion of The Sims Social across its existing Playfish and PopCap-made social games (not to mention increase advertisement efforts in EA properties across the board). But we think there are changes to be made within the game that could draw former players back in. Here are three ways to The Sims Social could take the fight back to CityVille:
Time to Go Mobile
And no, not just because all the cool kids are doing it. The Sims Social once had an incredible amount of daily players, and we're sure more daily players would have stuck around if they could somehow access their "Little Me in Little Haven" through their iPhone or Android phone. How great would it be to tend to the more boring aspects of The Sims Social, like leveling up your Sim's writing or music skills, while in a meeting or in line at the grocery store?
The Sims FreePlay came dangerously close to this, and frankly we're surprised this version was released before a FarmVille mobile-esque version of The Sims Social hit the iPhone. The fact that The Sims FreePlay, while obviously not created by Playfish, has no connection to the Facebook game whatsoever is a sorely missed opportunity to both keep existing players interested and perhaps rekindle old flames.
The Sims artist
Support Your Artists
Most successful social games tend to have an inspiring effect on their players, and The Sims Social is no exception. Just take a look at the vibrant tile art and stacking communities, and you'll see what we mean. Now, this isn't to say that Playfish doesn't recognize its more creative players at all--a glance at the game's many forum contests will attest to that. But we're talking about something far more integrated and unprecedented in simulator-style social games.
If Playfish were to introduce game mechanics to The Sims Social that helped recognize these artists game-wide--not just on the forums or the game's Facebook fan page--that would set The Sims Social leaps and bounds ahead of the competition. For instance, imagine being able to take snapshots of your own stacking or tile artwork in the game and submit them to a weekly contest. All of the submissions would be viewable from within the game through, say, a Sim's TV and voted upon. The winners would then have their work featured on a daily bulletin for all to see. Inspire players to keep creating, competing and thus playing.
The Sims car
Boredom Busters
To that end, players simply need more things to do in The Sims Social. Since the game's launch, new quests and items have been introduced almost every week, but it's sad to say that's not enough. Players need drastic change to remain interested, and by "drastic" we mean game-changing content.
If your Sim could work a job, drive a car to new places and own a vacation home, would that not get you excited to play The Sims Social again? Playfish's social life simulator brought new ideas to the table when it came to intimate, asynchronous interaction between friends. Perhaps some sort of public asynchronous interaction is in order. What if Sims could hit up the bar or club and somehow asynchronously interact with multiple friends at the same time?
The long and short of it is this: We're obviously no game designers, but we are players of social games, and we know what (at least some of) the players might want. While a lot of these issues are those of scale when compared to the mighty Zynga, The Sims Social made it this far. And if Playfish wants to continue to compete on that level, it needs to provide content and features of that scale.
What do you think The Sims Social needs to thrive in the high end of the top five again? Does Playfish's best game yet have a chance of challenging CityVille again?
The Sims Social Happy New Year Walkthrough: How to finish it fast
It's time to raise your glasses a tad early in The Sims Social. New Year's Eve approaches, and Playfish has, of course, chose to celebrate in no other way than with a themed quest series. Simply titled "Happy New Year," this series contains five smaller quests for players to complete within the next week.
However, this quest might be a bit more challenging than you're used to. You'll need at least four friends, 4 Social Points, 8 Goodwill, a PC, a Karate Mat and your Mail Box. Already, the requirements sound a bit ... weird. (What in the world could a Karate Mat have to do with this?) The carrot on the stick? A SupaHapiTime Disco Globe for your Sim.
The Sims Social Happy New Year 1
Happy New Year Part One
Email a Sim
Find 5 Sims' Lost Items
To email a Sim, use your Sim's PC and choose the option "Email About Lost Things." For the second requirement, visit five friends' houses and choose the "Find Lost Items" option when clicking on various objects.
The Sims Social Happy New Year 2
Happy New Year Part Two
Become Inspired
Mail a Resolution out to a Friend
Tell 2 Different Sims about Resolution
To become inspired, all you need to do is completely fulfill all of your Sim's basic needs. Then, send your Sim to its Mailbox and choose to pick a resolution and send out the News Feed. Finally, visit two of your friends' Sims and choose the option "Tell About Resolution" while talking to them.
The Sims Social Happy New Year 3
Happy New Year Part Three
Pick 5 Different Healthy Food Options
Use the Karate Mat 3 Times
Tell 4 Sims That You Work Out
To pick the five different Healthy Food Options, interact with any fridge or food item and choose the relevant option--these could be either yours or your friends'. The Karate Mat was available in a previous theme, but Bella has one at her house that you can use to complete this task. Telling four different Sims that you work out is as simple as visiting them and choosing the option. Save time by completing the first and third tasks while in the same Sims' houses.
The Sims Social Happy New Year 4
Happy New Year Part Four
Have 8 Goodwill
Send E-Cards
Do Friendly Things for 5 Sims
To get the Goodwill, all you need to do is perform friendly actions, such as repairing broken items or perform friendly interactions when talking to other Sims. Sending the e-Cards is as simple as choosing the option on your Sim's PC. That final goal ties in with the first rather nicely, so try to complete them both at once.
The Sims Social Happy New Year 5
Happy New Year Part Five
Play Prank on 4 Different Sims
Get 8 Greasy Food
Have or Equip Slob Trait
To prank four different Sims, you'll have to visit them and choose the negative options on their various items within their house. However, you may need to be in a neutral or negative relationship with these friends to make it happen. The eight Greasy Food comes from friend help requests.
The Slob Trait, if you don't already have it, requires 170 Lifetime Points. Access the Traits menu from the bottom right corner of your game screen. If you don't have room for it, spend 20 Lifetime Points to deactivate one and replace it. For your troubles, enjoy a nifty disco ball, which we're gonna guess is a dance item. Let your Sim dance into 2012, but remember to do some dancing yourself.
[Source: The Sims Social Fansite]
Have you started the Happy New Year quest in The Sims Social yet? What tips do you have to complete the series even faster?
However, this quest might be a bit more challenging than you're used to. You'll need at least four friends, 4 Social Points, 8 Goodwill, a PC, a Karate Mat and your Mail Box. Already, the requirements sound a bit ... weird. (What in the world could a Karate Mat have to do with this?) The carrot on the stick? A SupaHapiTime Disco Globe for your Sim.
The Sims Social Happy New Year 1
Happy New Year Part One
Email a Sim
Find 5 Sims' Lost Items
To email a Sim, use your Sim's PC and choose the option "Email About Lost Things." For the second requirement, visit five friends' houses and choose the "Find Lost Items" option when clicking on various objects.
The Sims Social Happy New Year 2
Happy New Year Part Two
Become Inspired
Mail a Resolution out to a Friend
Tell 2 Different Sims about Resolution
To become inspired, all you need to do is completely fulfill all of your Sim's basic needs. Then, send your Sim to its Mailbox and choose to pick a resolution and send out the News Feed. Finally, visit two of your friends' Sims and choose the option "Tell About Resolution" while talking to them.
The Sims Social Happy New Year 3
Happy New Year Part Three
Pick 5 Different Healthy Food Options
Use the Karate Mat 3 Times
Tell 4 Sims That You Work Out
To pick the five different Healthy Food Options, interact with any fridge or food item and choose the relevant option--these could be either yours or your friends'. The Karate Mat was available in a previous theme, but Bella has one at her house that you can use to complete this task. Telling four different Sims that you work out is as simple as visiting them and choosing the option. Save time by completing the first and third tasks while in the same Sims' houses.
The Sims Social Happy New Year 4
Happy New Year Part Four
Have 8 Goodwill
Send E-Cards
Do Friendly Things for 5 Sims
To get the Goodwill, all you need to do is perform friendly actions, such as repairing broken items or perform friendly interactions when talking to other Sims. Sending the e-Cards is as simple as choosing the option on your Sim's PC. That final goal ties in with the first rather nicely, so try to complete them both at once.
The Sims Social Happy New Year 5
Happy New Year Part Five
Play Prank on 4 Different Sims
Get 8 Greasy Food
Have or Equip Slob Trait
To prank four different Sims, you'll have to visit them and choose the negative options on their various items within their house. However, you may need to be in a neutral or negative relationship with these friends to make it happen. The eight Greasy Food comes from friend help requests.
The Slob Trait, if you don't already have it, requires 170 Lifetime Points. Access the Traits menu from the bottom right corner of your game screen. If you don't have room for it, spend 20 Lifetime Points to deactivate one and replace it. For your troubles, enjoy a nifty disco ball, which we're gonna guess is a dance item. Let your Sim dance into 2012, but remember to do some dancing yourself.
[Source: The Sims Social Fansite]
Have you started the Happy New Year quest in The Sims Social yet? What tips do you have to complete the series even faster?
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
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?
Saturday, December 10, 2011
The Sims Social: Bathe, drink and hit the head with new Dr Pepper decor
Now your Sim can take a refreshing dump using an official Dr Pepper toilet in The Sims Social (pictured right). We're not sure what poor soul was asked to write the copy for this item, but here's what he or she came up with: "Dr Pepper Toilet -- Proof that Dr Pepper really does make absolutely anything better." Maybe afterwards, you can flush that Dr Pepper toilet with some Coca-Cola for a quick clean-up.
Part of a 7-piece furniture set, the toilet and the other DLC goodies can be gotten by nabbing codes from specially marked Dr Pepper products and registering them on the promotions page of the Dr Pepper website. (Note: You don't need to register with the same email address as the one for your Facebook account for this to work.) The other six pieces are: Dr Pepper Bath, Dr Pepper Fridge, Dr Pepper Wheel Bench, Dr Pepper Clock, Dr Pepper Mirror, and Dr Pepper Sink.
Keep in mind, one code only gets you one item. Codes need to be gathered by the end of this year and redeemed by the end of next January. Each code should be twelve letters total and make sure there's no spaces between the letters when you submit or it might not enter. Once that goes through, head to My Account and click on the "Get Prize" link. If you don't like the Toilet, you can set it up to grab your 475 House Value Points, and then sell it for 62 Simoleons.
The Sims Social Dr Pepper items
This also isn't the first time Playfish and EA has partnered with the soda giant. Dr Pepper took center stage in Restaurant City last year for a 1950s nostalgia celebration, which is probably why they've been left out this time, even though Pet Society is in on it too. Also, whereas that promotion had items open to everyone, this one requires a bit more work and is only available to US players. Not that this has stopped overseas fans from paying US players for the codes. While that level of dedication is remarkable, caveat emptor!
Are these free items enough to make you buy Dr Pepper? Which Dr Pepper item in The Sims Social would you most like to own?
Part of a 7-piece furniture set, the toilet and the other DLC goodies can be gotten by nabbing codes from specially marked Dr Pepper products and registering them on the promotions page of the Dr Pepper website. (Note: You don't need to register with the same email address as the one for your Facebook account for this to work.) The other six pieces are: Dr Pepper Bath, Dr Pepper Fridge, Dr Pepper Wheel Bench, Dr Pepper Clock, Dr Pepper Mirror, and Dr Pepper Sink.
Keep in mind, one code only gets you one item. Codes need to be gathered by the end of this year and redeemed by the end of next January. Each code should be twelve letters total and make sure there's no spaces between the letters when you submit or it might not enter. Once that goes through, head to My Account and click on the "Get Prize" link. If you don't like the Toilet, you can set it up to grab your 475 House Value Points, and then sell it for 62 Simoleons.
The Sims Social Dr Pepper items
This also isn't the first time Playfish and EA has partnered with the soda giant. Dr Pepper took center stage in Restaurant City last year for a 1950s nostalgia celebration, which is probably why they've been left out this time, even though Pet Society is in on it too. Also, whereas that promotion had items open to everyone, this one requires a bit more work and is only available to US players. Not that this has stopped overseas fans from paying US players for the codes. While that level of dedication is remarkable, caveat emptor!
Are these free items enough to make you buy Dr Pepper? Which Dr Pepper item in The Sims Social would you most like to own?
Thursday, October 6, 2011
The Sims Social Summer Blowout Week decor shows its pearly whites
With a freebie frenzy of sorts and a new feature in Land Expansions, Playfish has been rather busy with The Sims Social. Just recently, the team released a number of new summer-themed items in its Summer Blowout Week to ring out the brightest season ... again.
At any rate, there are quite a few items to check out both for Simoleons and SimCash. But we're going to focus on the decorations, so moving right along:
LuxLite Wonder
* Costs: 8 SimCash
* House Value: 1,200
Sunflower
* Costs: 9 SimCash
* House Value: 1,500
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Lemonade For All
* Level 13 Required
* House Value: 350
Contempo Chair
* Costs: 14 SimCash
* House Value: 2,050
Basix Lounger
* Costs: 450 Simoleons
* House Value: 300
* Sleep: 11
* Bladder: -1
Twisted Topiary
* Costs: 15 SimCash
* House Value: 2,200
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Heart Topiary SolTrain Gazebo LuxLite Lamp
Contempo Table
* Costs: 19 SimCash
* House Value: 2,800
Stunning Palm
* Costs: 19 SimCash
* House Value: 2,800
* Fun: 3
* Social: 3
ArchPine Chair
* Level 12 Required
* House Value: 650
Star Parasol Rose/Pale
* Level 13 Required
* House Value: 650
Heart Topiary
* Costs: 25 SimCash
* House Value: 3,700
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Contempo Bench
* Costs: 25 SimCash
* House Value: 3,700
Lizard Lounger
* Costs: 800 Simoleons
* House Value: 700
* Sleep: 11
* Bladder: -1
SolTrain Lounger
* Costs: 29 SimCash
* House Value: 4,300
* Sleep: 11
* Bladder: -1
ArchPine Table
* Level 12 Required
* House Value: 1,100
Contempo Lux
* Costs: 35 SimCash
* House Value: 5,150
Sunflower Font of all Awesome Pale Star Parasol
ArchPine Bench
* Level 12 Required
* House Value: 1,300
Mini Palm
* Costs: 1,350 Simoleons
* House Value: 1,450
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Aquatix Thrill
* Costs: 55 SimCash
* House Value: 8,150
Atlas Fountain
* Costs: 1,750 Simoleons
* House Value: 1,650
Font of All Awesome
* Costs: 2,250 Simoleons
* House Value: 1,800
Spheres Topiary
* Level 23 Required
* House Value: 3,250
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Dolphin Topiary
* Costs: 4,500 Simoleons
* House Value: 3,400
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Elephant Topiary
* Costs: 6,500 Simoleons
* House Value: 4,650
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Air and Air Pool
* Level 12 Required
* House Value: 9,500
* Fun: 19
* Sleep: 11
While a majority of these item unfortunately cost SimCash, a good amount of them go for Simoleons. The best bang for your buck? I'd recommend going for any of the topiaries to give your House Value an instant boost. Also, keep in mind that a number of new wall and floor patterns were added, too, most of which cost Social Points. So, keep visiting your friends if you want to change the overall palette of your Sim's home.
[Image Credit: Playfish]
Have you snapped up any of these summer items? What type of decor are you hoping for next in The Sims Social? Share with us in the comments. 1 Comment
At any rate, there are quite a few items to check out both for Simoleons and SimCash. But we're going to focus on the decorations, so moving right along:
LuxLite Wonder
* Costs: 8 SimCash
* House Value: 1,200
Sunflower
* Costs: 9 SimCash
* House Value: 1,500
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Lemonade For All
* Level 13 Required
* House Value: 350
Contempo Chair
* Costs: 14 SimCash
* House Value: 2,050
Basix Lounger
* Costs: 450 Simoleons
* House Value: 300
* Sleep: 11
* Bladder: -1
Twisted Topiary
* Costs: 15 SimCash
* House Value: 2,200
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Heart Topiary SolTrain Gazebo LuxLite Lamp
Contempo Table
* Costs: 19 SimCash
* House Value: 2,800
Stunning Palm
* Costs: 19 SimCash
* House Value: 2,800
* Fun: 3
* Social: 3
ArchPine Chair
* Level 12 Required
* House Value: 650
Star Parasol Rose/Pale
* Level 13 Required
* House Value: 650
Heart Topiary
* Costs: 25 SimCash
* House Value: 3,700
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Contempo Bench
* Costs: 25 SimCash
* House Value: 3,700
Lizard Lounger
* Costs: 800 Simoleons
* House Value: 700
* Sleep: 11
* Bladder: -1
SolTrain Lounger
* Costs: 29 SimCash
* House Value: 4,300
* Sleep: 11
* Bladder: -1
ArchPine Table
* Level 12 Required
* House Value: 1,100
Contempo Lux
* Costs: 35 SimCash
* House Value: 5,150
Sunflower Font of all Awesome Pale Star Parasol
ArchPine Bench
* Level 12 Required
* House Value: 1,300
Mini Palm
* Costs: 1,350 Simoleons
* House Value: 1,450
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Aquatix Thrill
* Costs: 55 SimCash
* House Value: 8,150
Atlas Fountain
* Costs: 1,750 Simoleons
* House Value: 1,650
Font of All Awesome
* Costs: 2,250 Simoleons
* House Value: 1,800
Spheres Topiary
* Level 23 Required
* House Value: 3,250
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Dolphin Topiary
* Costs: 4,500 Simoleons
* House Value: 3,400
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Elephant Topiary
* Costs: 6,500 Simoleons
* House Value: 4,650
* Bladder: 9
* Fun: 3
Air and Air Pool
* Level 12 Required
* House Value: 9,500
* Fun: 19
* Sleep: 11
While a majority of these item unfortunately cost SimCash, a good amount of them go for Simoleons. The best bang for your buck? I'd recommend going for any of the topiaries to give your House Value an instant boost. Also, keep in mind that a number of new wall and floor patterns were added, too, most of which cost Social Points. So, keep visiting your friends if you want to change the overall palette of your Sim's home.
[Image Credit: Playfish]
Have you snapped up any of these summer items? What type of decor are you hoping for next in The Sims Social? Share with us in the comments. 1 Comment
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
The Sims Social celebrates fans with a week of free stuff
Free stuff? Yes, please, I'll take some of that! With almost 61 million players (and climbing), the folks at EA / Playfish have a lot to be thankful for when it comes to the Sims Social on Facebook. As a way to thank their ever-growing player base for their support (even when the game suffered from some nagging loading and gameplay issues), the developers have launched a week long celebration involving free stuff that will be given away, apparently on a daily basis.
To start, we're given a gift of Social Points - a whopping 400 Social Points at that. Since your other methods of earning Social Points normally come in small increments (of 10 or less per action) when visiting friends, this really is a substantial prize. Remember, these Social Points work as a form of third currency in the game, and can be used to purchase exclusive decorations or other home items that aren't available through any other method or currency.
We've also been told that we'll be able to increase our land size in the future, although that wasn't exactly announced in as many words. To be specific, we're asked if we "need more space to build your dream home" and that with that question comes a secret that the developers just couldn't hold in anymore. We're even asked "If you could expand your land, what is the first room you'd build on it?"
Put two and two together here, and you're left with the answer that land size will soon be increasing, although no particular release date was announced (unfortunately). If you're like me, your home has already filled most nooks and crannies of land in our admittedly small square, and is surrounded by outdoor goodies to boot. Being able to increase the size of our house plot is a huge deal, and we'll make sure to let you know when that feature / ability launches as soon as it does.
In the meantime, keep checking back with the game's Facebook fan page for additional links / announcements of free prizes, and click right here to claim your free 400 Social Points.
What sorts of prizes are you hoping to receive in this week-long event of free stuff? What will you purchase with your 400 free Social Points? Sound off in the comments.
To start, we're given a gift of Social Points - a whopping 400 Social Points at that. Since your other methods of earning Social Points normally come in small increments (of 10 or less per action) when visiting friends, this really is a substantial prize. Remember, these Social Points work as a form of third currency in the game, and can be used to purchase exclusive decorations or other home items that aren't available through any other method or currency.
We've also been told that we'll be able to increase our land size in the future, although that wasn't exactly announced in as many words. To be specific, we're asked if we "need more space to build your dream home" and that with that question comes a secret that the developers just couldn't hold in anymore. We're even asked "If you could expand your land, what is the first room you'd build on it?"
Put two and two together here, and you're left with the answer that land size will soon be increasing, although no particular release date was announced (unfortunately). If you're like me, your home has already filled most nooks and crannies of land in our admittedly small square, and is surrounded by outdoor goodies to boot. Being able to increase the size of our house plot is a huge deal, and we'll make sure to let you know when that feature / ability launches as soon as it does.
In the meantime, keep checking back with the game's Facebook fan page for additional links / announcements of free prizes, and click right here to claim your free 400 Social Points.
What sorts of prizes are you hoping to receive in this week-long event of free stuff? What will you purchase with your 400 free Social Points? Sound off in the comments.
Monday, October 3, 2011
The Sims Social: Celebrate the last days of summer with new Summer House theme
With the mass popularity of the Sims Social on Facebook, it's no surprise that Playfish / EA are continually adding new decorative items to the game's store, allowing you to personalize your home in new ways. Specifically, this week sees the launch of a "Summer House" theme of items, with items being available for your living room, bedroom and even outdoor areas. There are also plenty of decorative items here to take a look at, so we'll do our best to give you a complete guide to these new items. Check them out!
SolTrain Cubic (Shelving Unit)
* Costs: 35 SimCash
* Value: $5,150
SolTrain Chair (Buildable item)
* Costs: 2,250 coins
* Value: $1,800
SolTrain Kingsize (Bed)
* Costs: 79 SimCash
* Value: $11,700
* Sleep Stat: 11
SolTrain Rays (Lamp)
* Costs: 3 SimCash
* Value: $450
BasketCase Travel (Requires Level 30)
* Value: $350
SolTrain UV Lite
* Costs: 12 SimCash
* Value: $1,750
BasketCase XL (Requires Level 30)
* Value: $600
SolTrain UV XL (Lamp)
* Costs: 22 SimCash
* Value: $3,250
Summer Tones (Painting - requires level 30)
* Value: $750
Woody Divider (Requires Level 24)
* Value: $1,300
SolTrain BagelUp
* Costs: 5 SimCash
* Value: $750
Woody Boxout B (Kitchen cabinet - requires Level 26 - Buildable item)
* Value: $1,650
Woody Boxout L (Kitchen Cabinet - requires Level 26 - Buildable item)
* Value: $1,650
SolTrain Panama (Outdoor Bed)
* Costs: 49 Sim Cash
* Value: $7,250
SolTrain Snug (Buildable item - requires Level 30)
* Value: $2,200
Palm Tree
* Costs: 1,750 coins
* Value: $1,650
* Happiness Stat: 3
* Social Stat: 3
SolTrain Parasol
* Costs: 59 SimCash
* Value: $8,700
SolTrain Swing (Buildable item - requires Level 30)
* Value: $4,850
* Sleep Stat: 3
UltiMax Top Deck (Stereo)
* Costs: 59 SimCash
* Value: $8,700
* Fun Stat: 5
In addition to all of these items, there's a full set of windows available in the Build menu is a new "Alpine" theme, which consists of a dark tan, almost orange colored frame. Four flooring options are available for either Social Points or (at most) a single SimCash per tile, and the theme is rounded out with a "SolTrain Beach" wallpaper that costs 55 Social Points per square.
As with previously released themes, these Summer House items don't appear to be limited edition; rather, they should be available permanently in the game's store. That being the case, you should be able to save up coins, or Social Points, or have time to purchase SimCash long into the future to create this theme in your home as far into the future as you like. If we see this change, we'll make sure to let you know.
What do you think of these Summer House items in Sims Social? What kinds of items would you like to see released next in the game? Sound off in the comments.
SolTrain Cubic (Shelving Unit)
* Costs: 35 SimCash
* Value: $5,150
SolTrain Chair (Buildable item)
* Costs: 2,250 coins
* Value: $1,800
SolTrain Kingsize (Bed)
* Costs: 79 SimCash
* Value: $11,700
* Sleep Stat: 11
SolTrain Rays (Lamp)
* Costs: 3 SimCash
* Value: $450
BasketCase Travel (Requires Level 30)
* Value: $350
SolTrain UV Lite
* Costs: 12 SimCash
* Value: $1,750
BasketCase XL (Requires Level 30)
* Value: $600
SolTrain UV XL (Lamp)
* Costs: 22 SimCash
* Value: $3,250
Summer Tones (Painting - requires level 30)
* Value: $750
Woody Divider (Requires Level 24)
* Value: $1,300
SolTrain BagelUp
* Costs: 5 SimCash
* Value: $750
Woody Boxout B (Kitchen cabinet - requires Level 26 - Buildable item)
* Value: $1,650
Woody Boxout L (Kitchen Cabinet - requires Level 26 - Buildable item)
* Value: $1,650
SolTrain Panama (Outdoor Bed)
* Costs: 49 Sim Cash
* Value: $7,250
SolTrain Snug (Buildable item - requires Level 30)
* Value: $2,200
Palm Tree
* Costs: 1,750 coins
* Value: $1,650
* Happiness Stat: 3
* Social Stat: 3
SolTrain Parasol
* Costs: 59 SimCash
* Value: $8,700
SolTrain Swing (Buildable item - requires Level 30)
* Value: $4,850
* Sleep Stat: 3
UltiMax Top Deck (Stereo)
* Costs: 59 SimCash
* Value: $8,700
* Fun Stat: 5
In addition to all of these items, there's a full set of windows available in the Build menu is a new "Alpine" theme, which consists of a dark tan, almost orange colored frame. Four flooring options are available for either Social Points or (at most) a single SimCash per tile, and the theme is rounded out with a "SolTrain Beach" wallpaper that costs 55 Social Points per square.
As with previously released themes, these Summer House items don't appear to be limited edition; rather, they should be available permanently in the game's store. That being the case, you should be able to save up coins, or Social Points, or have time to purchase SimCash long into the future to create this theme in your home as far into the future as you like. If we see this change, we'll make sure to let you know.
What do you think of these Summer House items in Sims Social? What kinds of items would you like to see released next in the game? Sound off in the comments.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Playfish founder: We have redefined social games with The Sims Social
The Sims Social is just an arm's reach from being the number one game on Facebook, so this kind of logic is expected. In an interview with MCV, Playfish founder and co-GM Kristian Segerstrale said, "In bringing one of EA's most popular game franchises to Facebook, Playfish and The Sims team have redefined the meaning of social in video games."
While The Sims Social certainly treads some new ground in how Facebook gamers interact, it's important to remember to chalk up much of the game's runaway success to the brand it's attached to. In just over a month since its release, The Sims Social has skyrocketed to become the second most popular Facebook game to date in both daily and monthly players, AppData reports.
Just last week, EA's (which owns Playfish) proverbial secret weapon ousted Zynga's iconic and ubiquitous FarmVille in daily players, but now the game has even more monthly players than the household name farming simulator with over 43.8 million and counting. The Sims Social has dipped a bit in daily players, but is just about 2.9 million fans away from beating out the might CityVille as the most played Facebook game daily.
"By combining Playfish's expertise and passion for social play with the deep creative heritage of The Sims franchise and the insights of its creators, we feel we've brought something very special to life – and tens of millions of players around the world have responded with extraordinary enthusiasm over the last few weeks," Segerstrale said to MCV.
The founder went on to say that new features to The Sims Social will land in the coming months. And we're sure that if EA wants to host the top Facebook game overall, that those features will have to be even more groundbreaking than before. How's about in-game marriages, eh? (Because we all know how well that's worked elsewhere.)
Have you been a part of The Sims Social craze on Facebook? Do you think it's incredible growth is due to its reportedly groundbreaking social features, or is more thanks to its name (it could always be both)? Sound off in the comments. 1 Comment
While The Sims Social certainly treads some new ground in how Facebook gamers interact, it's important to remember to chalk up much of the game's runaway success to the brand it's attached to. In just over a month since its release, The Sims Social has skyrocketed to become the second most popular Facebook game to date in both daily and monthly players, AppData reports.
Just last week, EA's (which owns Playfish) proverbial secret weapon ousted Zynga's iconic and ubiquitous FarmVille in daily players, but now the game has even more monthly players than the household name farming simulator with over 43.8 million and counting. The Sims Social has dipped a bit in daily players, but is just about 2.9 million fans away from beating out the might CityVille as the most played Facebook game daily.
"By combining Playfish's expertise and passion for social play with the deep creative heritage of The Sims franchise and the insights of its creators, we feel we've brought something very special to life – and tens of millions of players around the world have responded with extraordinary enthusiasm over the last few weeks," Segerstrale said to MCV.
The founder went on to say that new features to The Sims Social will land in the coming months. And we're sure that if EA wants to host the top Facebook game overall, that those features will have to be even more groundbreaking than before. How's about in-game marriages, eh? (Because we all know how well that's worked elsewhere.)
Have you been a part of The Sims Social craze on Facebook? Do you think it's incredible growth is due to its reportedly groundbreaking social features, or is more thanks to its name (it could always be both)? Sound off in the comments. 1 Comment
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)