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?
Showing posts with label ea. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ea. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
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?
Thursday, December 15, 2011
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?
Monday, December 12, 2011
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!
Saturday, December 10, 2011
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?
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
PopCap feels the power of 'free,' more freemium games incoming
Perhaps "PopCap feels the power of Facebook" is more like it. During an interview with PocketGamer.biz, PopCap senior director of mobile product and business strategy Giordano Contestabile revealed that the Bejeweled Blitz creator has plenty more plans for freemium mobile games. That's especially since its recent Plants vs Zombies freemium-inspired update.
"While we typically don't disclose much about our future plans, I can say that you're in for a lot of surprises for us in the coming months, and that in-app transactions and the freemium model are going to feature prominently," Contestabile told PocketGamer.biz. The PopCap exec believes that the play first, (maybe) pay later model of mobile games will likely take over.
"I think that, one year from now, 95 percent or more of iOS game downloads might come from freemium games, and 80 percent or more of the revenue could be associated with them," Contestabile told the website. "The freemium model is extremely powerful because it allows developers to reach the biggest possible audience, and it allows players to choose if and how to pay for content, after having tried it out."
While Contestabile did say that there's still a place for premium game experiences, or pay-to-play games, that approach is losing its luster for most games. It wouldn't be terribly inaccurate to call this "The Facebook Effect." The fact that companies like Zynga and EA (which now owns PopCap) have made serious dough with free-to-play Facebook games has certainly had a visible impact on mobile gaming, which has a distribution model fairly similar to social networks. Almost Free is here to stay, and it looks like PopCap wants to lead the charge.
Are you excited to hear that more free-to-play games are coming from PopCap? Which property do you hope gets the free treatment next, or are you hoping for more original games? Sound off in the comments. Add Comment
"While we typically don't disclose much about our future plans, I can say that you're in for a lot of surprises for us in the coming months, and that in-app transactions and the freemium model are going to feature prominently," Contestabile told PocketGamer.biz. The PopCap exec believes that the play first, (maybe) pay later model of mobile games will likely take over.
"I think that, one year from now, 95 percent or more of iOS game downloads might come from freemium games, and 80 percent or more of the revenue could be associated with them," Contestabile told the website. "The freemium model is extremely powerful because it allows developers to reach the biggest possible audience, and it allows players to choose if and how to pay for content, after having tried it out."
While Contestabile did say that there's still a place for premium game experiences, or pay-to-play games, that approach is losing its luster for most games. It wouldn't be terribly inaccurate to call this "The Facebook Effect." The fact that companies like Zynga and EA (which now owns PopCap) have made serious dough with free-to-play Facebook games has certainly had a visible impact on mobile gaming, which has a distribution model fairly similar to social networks. Almost Free is here to stay, and it looks like PopCap wants to lead the charge.
Are you excited to hear that more free-to-play games are coming from PopCap? Which property do you hope gets the free treatment next, or are you hoping for more original games? Sound off in the comments. Add Comment
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.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Zynga, Playdom, EA and Bioware vets cause a Rumble with new freemium studio
While many a story has come to light recently, detailing high-level game designers jumping ship to Zynga, here's one where a fairly big gun under the big Z's umbrella has left for new pastures. To be specific, John Yoo, lead designer on CityVille, is one of a few industry veterans that have joined with Greg Richardson [pictured], of former BioWare/Pandemic fame, in the creation of a new freemium (free-to-play) game studio by the name of Rumble.
After speaking with Rick Thompson, the founder of another major social games company - Playdom - the two partnered to form Rumble. Rounding out this new package are former EA employees Mark Spenner and David O'Connor. With these big names in their camp, Richardson's goal with Rumble is to create games that are free to play (supported with paid add-ons), but lie somewhere in between the expensive world of high-end PC games and the extremely casual games represented by many Facebook titles.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Richardson has faith that this middle ground holds a lot of merit. "We saw this third hill, and we think it's the biggest of the three hills," he says. This isn't to say, though, that Facebook games are out of the picture, as Richardson confirmed that they will use the social service, but will also focus on mobile devices and PCs through the browser.
In addition to developing its own games, Rumble will publish other developer's titles. While no specific details were announced about any of Rumble's specific games (we can expect the first sometime early next year), Richardson did list many of the company's areas of inspiration, which lie anywhere from Zelda and Super Smash Bros. to Diablo and Civilization. Regardless of the game in question, he says that Rumble looks to avoid overly complex gameplay. With this many areas of inspiration, we're definitely interested in seeing what Rumble comes up with, but for now - the possibilities are endless.
Are you excited in trying out this apparent middle-ground of freemium games that aren't too challenging, but aren't too basic either? Sound off in the comments.
After speaking with Rick Thompson, the founder of another major social games company - Playdom - the two partnered to form Rumble. Rounding out this new package are former EA employees Mark Spenner and David O'Connor. With these big names in their camp, Richardson's goal with Rumble is to create games that are free to play (supported with paid add-ons), but lie somewhere in between the expensive world of high-end PC games and the extremely casual games represented by many Facebook titles.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Richardson has faith that this middle ground holds a lot of merit. "We saw this third hill, and we think it's the biggest of the three hills," he says. This isn't to say, though, that Facebook games are out of the picture, as Richardson confirmed that they will use the social service, but will also focus on mobile devices and PCs through the browser.
In addition to developing its own games, Rumble will publish other developer's titles. While no specific details were announced about any of Rumble's specific games (we can expect the first sometime early next year), Richardson did list many of the company's areas of inspiration, which lie anywhere from Zelda and Super Smash Bros. to Diablo and Civilization. Regardless of the game in question, he says that Rumble looks to avoid overly complex gameplay. With this many areas of inspiration, we're definitely interested in seeing what Rumble comes up with, but for now - the possibilities are endless.
Are you excited in trying out this apparent middle-ground of freemium games that aren't too challenging, but aren't too basic either? Sound off in the comments.
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