Ribbon Flower Tree Mastery
Zynga is getting sneaky with its item releases, huh? (Or it's just protecting its data better from leaks.) Without warning or leak, Giant Ribbon Flower Trees have begun to sprout up in FarmVille through Mystery Seedlings. The update comes as a surprise purely because these items normally leak days before they're released. At any rate, FarmVille Freak says that it is safe to assume that this is a Level 2 Tree, as it sprouted from Mystery Seedlings. The tree is one to throw in the fictional file: It resembles a bouquet of flowers with its trunk essentially a bunch of flower stems tied together. As it grows, it will sprout beautiful flowers of pink, purple and yellow, trimmed with shiny garland. You better throw on some makeup before playing, because FarmVille just got a whole lot prettier.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
Have you seen this tree crop up in Mystery Seedlings in your farm? What do you think of the fictional trees in FarmVille?
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
CityVille Zoo: Get a sneak peek at the new upcoming missions (plus a new crop!)
Our sleuthing pals over at CityVille Chat uncovered what seems to be a series of new goals surrounding a new City Zoo that will (most likely) be arriving soon. Keep in mind that these items are unreleased, so there is no guarantee when, if and in what form these will arrive in the game.
Oh yes, this series of goals also indicates that a new crop is on the way -- alfalfa.
GOAL: ANIMAL RESCUE!
-Build Jungle Habitat
-Place Jungle Animal
-Collect from 20 Businesses
GOAL: JUNGLE FRIENDS!
-Have Two Animals
-Place an Animal in their Habitat
GOAL: ANIMAL ATTRACTION!
-Collect from 20 Residences
-Place Jungle Zoo Gate
-Send 30 Tour Buses
GOAL: FEED THE TOURISTS!
-Build a Zoo Cafeteria
-Harvest 40 Crops of Corn
-Revive 25 Neighbor's Crops
GOAL:PICNIC AT THE ZOO!
-Place Picnic Area
-Ask friends for 10 Stuffed Animals
-Harvest 20 Alfalfa Crops (new crop!)
Check out the rest of our CityVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Oh yes, this series of goals also indicates that a new crop is on the way -- alfalfa.
GOAL: ANIMAL RESCUE!
-Build Jungle Habitat
-Place Jungle Animal
-Collect from 20 Businesses
GOAL: JUNGLE FRIENDS!
-Have Two Animals
-Place an Animal in their Habitat
GOAL: ANIMAL ATTRACTION!
-Collect from 20 Residences
-Place Jungle Zoo Gate
-Send 30 Tour Buses
GOAL: FEED THE TOURISTS!
-Build a Zoo Cafeteria
-Harvest 40 Crops of Corn
-Revive 25 Neighbor's Crops
GOAL:PICNIC AT THE ZOO!
-Place Picnic Area
-Ask friends for 10 Stuffed Animals
-Harvest 20 Alfalfa Crops (new crop!)
Check out the rest of our CityVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Ecotopia launches on Facebook: Raising environmental awareness one virtual tree at a time
For the past few weeks, we've been covering the development of Ecotopia, an environmentally-themed city building game on Facebook created by the folks at Talkie. Joining forces with Harrison Ford's Conservation International, Ecotopia looks to reward players for real-world "green acts," whether those be general recycling activities or changing the appliances or light bulbs in your house to eco-friendly models.
After launching in private beta at the beginning of April, Ecotopia is now available to play by the general public in an open beta that is still full of a few holes and bugs, but seems to achieve its overall purpose of increasing environmental awareness, and even helping to educate players as to ways they can be more environmentally conscious that they might not have thought of before. In its most basic form, Ecotopia is a city-building simulator that places you into an incredibly decrepit town that time and all manner of cleanliness forgot and abandoned long ago. To make the town's dreary atmosphere is your guide through the game, the ever-so-cheery (that's sarcasm) Mrs. Griswald. This woman hates the earth, calls anyone associated with environmental conservation a tree-hugging hippie and refuses to help you. Of course, by telling you things that she won't help you do, she actually plants dozens of ideas into our heads, so that's a clever little trick by the developers to create an in-game tutorial.
Gameplay itself, though, is incredibly light, seeing you simply reclaiming abandoned homes, and then putting those homes to work in "Green Acts." These acts are like jobs, that take varying amounts of Greenbacks, the virtual currency, to start, and varying amounts of time to complete. The longer a Green Act takes to finish, the more Greenbacks and experience points you'll earn, sending you to the next levels. Each of these Green Acts is themed to the idea of creating a better planet and conserving energy, so you might schedule the installation of a smart shower in one building, while you'll hang clothes out on a line to dry in another (rather than using the dryer).
Each home can be upgraded along the way by spending your profits, to make the homes entirely "green." This is done step by step, with small upgrades like LED light bulbs and new water pipes costing only a few hundred Greenbacks each, while the more major upgrades like installing geothermal heating or solar power can cost up to 4,000 Greenbacks a pop. Again, this isn't a system of upgrading the entire game - you're upgrading each individual home in your town to its most energy-conscious state, which will take you a ton of Greenbacks, and even more time to accomplish.
While you're waiting for Green Acts to complete, you can use your "Action" points, or energy, to pick up trash around town, reclaim construction debris and so on. You'll complete missions that see you competing certain Green Acts in specific types of homes, purchase new plants for the park, and so on. These are fairly basic, and help to always give you something to do when you could otherwise run out of actions very, very quickly in this starting state of the game.
As for the technical aspects of the game, there are a few issues that need to be addressed before Ecotopia can be a must-play game. For one, the timers on Green Acts can and often do randomize to negative numbers, so you'll have to refresh the game to set things back on track. Another issue is the lack of an action queue, forcing you to wait until each action in the game is complete before clicking on literally anything else, which causes your character to stop their current action (including walking) and move to that new spot.
Also, while Ecotopia does allow you to track your real-world Green Acts, by allowing you to choose from a list of tasks that you may have completed and receive in-game rewards for them (in the form of Greenbacks and XP), there's a limit to how much of a bonus you'll actually be able to earn, as you can only earn extra bonuses if you have an in-game friend that can "verify" that you actually completed them. Sure, this is a way to stop users from abusing the system, but what if you're like me, and are currently playing the game by yourself? I can't receive a bonus for using a reusable water bottle, since I don't have a friend to back me up. Since a few friends could still abuse this system, you are limited to how frequently you can claim these rewards, so I suppose there is somewhat of a balance there.
Gallery: Ecotopia on Facebook
All told, Ecotopia seems to conserve enough of the basic city-building game elements to attract a general Facebook gaming audience, but the game's focus on real-world efforts is currently lackluster at best (perhaps future updates will change this as, remember, the game is incredibly new). Helping clean up a virtual neighborhood is great, but if you're hoping to elicit real world change, it seems that you'll still be much better off joining a local volunteer group and getting clean the old fashioned way, all in the real world.
Play Ecotopia on Facebook --->
Have you tried Ecotopia on Facebook? Do you think this kind of game could actually change gamers' perspectives on how much energy they use in their daily lives?
After launching in private beta at the beginning of April, Ecotopia is now available to play by the general public in an open beta that is still full of a few holes and bugs, but seems to achieve its overall purpose of increasing environmental awareness, and even helping to educate players as to ways they can be more environmentally conscious that they might not have thought of before. In its most basic form, Ecotopia is a city-building simulator that places you into an incredibly decrepit town that time and all manner of cleanliness forgot and abandoned long ago. To make the town's dreary atmosphere is your guide through the game, the ever-so-cheery (that's sarcasm) Mrs. Griswald. This woman hates the earth, calls anyone associated with environmental conservation a tree-hugging hippie and refuses to help you. Of course, by telling you things that she won't help you do, she actually plants dozens of ideas into our heads, so that's a clever little trick by the developers to create an in-game tutorial.
Gameplay itself, though, is incredibly light, seeing you simply reclaiming abandoned homes, and then putting those homes to work in "Green Acts." These acts are like jobs, that take varying amounts of Greenbacks, the virtual currency, to start, and varying amounts of time to complete. The longer a Green Act takes to finish, the more Greenbacks and experience points you'll earn, sending you to the next levels. Each of these Green Acts is themed to the idea of creating a better planet and conserving energy, so you might schedule the installation of a smart shower in one building, while you'll hang clothes out on a line to dry in another (rather than using the dryer).
Each home can be upgraded along the way by spending your profits, to make the homes entirely "green." This is done step by step, with small upgrades like LED light bulbs and new water pipes costing only a few hundred Greenbacks each, while the more major upgrades like installing geothermal heating or solar power can cost up to 4,000 Greenbacks a pop. Again, this isn't a system of upgrading the entire game - you're upgrading each individual home in your town to its most energy-conscious state, which will take you a ton of Greenbacks, and even more time to accomplish.
While you're waiting for Green Acts to complete, you can use your "Action" points, or energy, to pick up trash around town, reclaim construction debris and so on. You'll complete missions that see you competing certain Green Acts in specific types of homes, purchase new plants for the park, and so on. These are fairly basic, and help to always give you something to do when you could otherwise run out of actions very, very quickly in this starting state of the game.
As for the technical aspects of the game, there are a few issues that need to be addressed before Ecotopia can be a must-play game. For one, the timers on Green Acts can and often do randomize to negative numbers, so you'll have to refresh the game to set things back on track. Another issue is the lack of an action queue, forcing you to wait until each action in the game is complete before clicking on literally anything else, which causes your character to stop their current action (including walking) and move to that new spot.
Also, while Ecotopia does allow you to track your real-world Green Acts, by allowing you to choose from a list of tasks that you may have completed and receive in-game rewards for them (in the form of Greenbacks and XP), there's a limit to how much of a bonus you'll actually be able to earn, as you can only earn extra bonuses if you have an in-game friend that can "verify" that you actually completed them. Sure, this is a way to stop users from abusing the system, but what if you're like me, and are currently playing the game by yourself? I can't receive a bonus for using a reusable water bottle, since I don't have a friend to back me up. Since a few friends could still abuse this system, you are limited to how frequently you can claim these rewards, so I suppose there is somewhat of a balance there.
Gallery: Ecotopia on Facebook
All told, Ecotopia seems to conserve enough of the basic city-building game elements to attract a general Facebook gaming audience, but the game's focus on real-world efforts is currently lackluster at best (perhaps future updates will change this as, remember, the game is incredibly new). Helping clean up a virtual neighborhood is great, but if you're hoping to elicit real world change, it seems that you'll still be much better off joining a local volunteer group and getting clean the old fashioned way, all in the real world.
Play Ecotopia on Facebook --->
Have you tried Ecotopia on Facebook? Do you think this kind of game could actually change gamers' perspectives on how much energy they use in their daily lives?
Earn 5 free FarmVille Farm Cash in SOCOM 4 PS3 promotion
Forget the two free FarmVille Farm Cash opportunities - a new promotion has launched in the game today offering five free Farm Cash for the same amount of work as you'd expect. This promotion is with SOCOM 4 (a military shooter) on the PS3, and it has you adding the SOCOM 4 Teammate Finder app to your profile on Facebook.
To activate this activity, simply click on the Sponsored Link image [pictured] and follow the instructions. The SOCOM 4 Teammate Finder app allows you to create a team or clan name for multiplayer gameplay in SOCOM 4 on the PS3, but you can create entirely random information if you're just out to get some free Farm Cash.
Remember, these promotions never last long (in fact, I'm the only one of my friends that I know has received the promotion thus far), so if you see it appear on your game, don't delay in completing it! It's not often that we see five Farm Cash being given out for so little effort, and you won't want to miss out!
Have you seen the SOCOM 4 promotion on your farm yet?
To activate this activity, simply click on the Sponsored Link image [pictured] and follow the instructions. The SOCOM 4 Teammate Finder app allows you to create a team or clan name for multiplayer gameplay in SOCOM 4 on the PS3, but you can create entirely random information if you're just out to get some free Farm Cash.
Remember, these promotions never last long (in fact, I'm the only one of my friends that I know has received the promotion thus far), so if you see it appear on your game, don't delay in completing it! It's not often that we see five Farm Cash being given out for so little effort, and you won't want to miss out!
Have you seen the SOCOM 4 promotion on your farm yet?
Monday, December 26, 2011
FarmVille GagaVille: Grab the Electric Rose Bed from 102.7 KIIS FM
The Gaga-fication of FarmVille continues with the second GagaVille prize from 102.7 KIIS FM and iHeart Radio, the Electric Rose Bed. Players can connect their Facebook account to this website, or through the 102.7 KIIS FM page found here, to unlock the item using the following code: "ELECTRIC."
After entering the code, click on the "Go Play FarmVille" link to redeem your item from the Zynga's FarmVille website. However, the code needs to be used between 3 a.m. and 9 p.m. PST, as that's when the code will be officially announced. In other words, you have until 11:59 p.m. EST to redeem your Electric Rose Bed, which I must say looks far cooler than the Chrome Flower Bed from before. And soon enough, we'll finally find out what that Monster Fuel is for. Come on, extra all-purpose fuel!
Have you received your Electric Rose Bed yet? What has been your favorite part of the GagaVille promotion thus far?
After entering the code, click on the "Go Play FarmVille" link to redeem your item from the Zynga's FarmVille website. However, the code needs to be used between 3 a.m. and 9 p.m. PST, as that's when the code will be officially announced. In other words, you have until 11:59 p.m. EST to redeem your Electric Rose Bed, which I must say looks far cooler than the Chrome Flower Bed from before. And soon enough, we'll finally find out what that Monster Fuel is for. Come on, extra all-purpose fuel!
Have you received your Electric Rose Bed yet? What has been your favorite part of the GagaVille promotion thus far?
Pocket God on Facebook is the 'Best Social/Casual Game' ... in Canada
Pocket God on Facebook
While we'd argue it was one of the best social games of 2010 period, Pocket God on Facebook was named the Best Social/Casual Game in the 2nd Annual Canadian Videogame Awards in Vancouver. Developer Frima Studios received the reward on the pygmies behalf. (Do you know how many miniature pygmies it would take to lift that thing?)
"We're ecstatic to have been granted this huge honor for our work in the casual and social gaming market with Pocket God," said Frima CEO Steve Couture in a press release. "Casual social games are clearly growing in popularity and the Canadian Videogame Awards are keen to recognize this trend early on. We will continue to strive to bring high quality games to our players while pushing the boundaries of the medium forward."
The Facebook adaptation of the 4-million-download strong runaway hit on iOS devices launched in 2010, and enjoys a small 270 thousand monthly players, according to AppData. However, the game brings a unique sense of control and interactivity to Facebook games that apparently caught the eyes of the Canadian video game industry as a step forward for the genre. And if Frima's next game is anything like Pocket God for Facebook, it deserves plenty more than 270 thousand fans--how about a few million?
Are you a fan of Pocket God on Facebook? If not, what Canadian Facebook game do you think is deserving of the title?
While we'd argue it was one of the best social games of 2010 period, Pocket God on Facebook was named the Best Social/Casual Game in the 2nd Annual Canadian Videogame Awards in Vancouver. Developer Frima Studios received the reward on the pygmies behalf. (Do you know how many miniature pygmies it would take to lift that thing?)
"We're ecstatic to have been granted this huge honor for our work in the casual and social gaming market with Pocket God," said Frima CEO Steve Couture in a press release. "Casual social games are clearly growing in popularity and the Canadian Videogame Awards are keen to recognize this trend early on. We will continue to strive to bring high quality games to our players while pushing the boundaries of the medium forward."
The Facebook adaptation of the 4-million-download strong runaway hit on iOS devices launched in 2010, and enjoys a small 270 thousand monthly players, according to AppData. However, the game brings a unique sense of control and interactivity to Facebook games that apparently caught the eyes of the Canadian video game industry as a step forward for the genre. And if Frima's next game is anything like Pocket God for Facebook, it deserves plenty more than 270 thousand fans--how about a few million?
Are you a fan of Pocket God on Facebook? If not, what Canadian Facebook game do you think is deserving of the title?
Can Disney's Playdom stay in the ring with Zynga and EA's Playfish?
Can Playdom still play Rock'Em Sock'Em?
Surprisingly, Playdom has had quite the rough time since it was bought out by Disney last summer for a huge $563 million. And according to the Los Angeles Times, financial and media analysts foresee the developer facing a steep uphill battle to play again in the big leagues. Playdom's monthly player base dropped from its 40 million peak to just 25 million today since the Mickey Mouse money machine took over, according to AppData. That was thanks to a five-month drought of new games in 2010 as the company evaluated quality and boosted technical capacity. Now, after Disney Interactive posted over $915 million in losses over the past four years, analysts are voicing concerns.
In fact, analysts don't expect Disney's game division to show profits until 2013, according to the LA Times. In the insanely rapid world of social games, in which Zynga sits at the top with EA and its Playfish at a distant second, that does not bode well. Regardless, Disney CEO Robert Iger remains optimistic.
"The opportunity for growth on the social games side - at least at this point of our entry - is probably greater than it had been when we entered the space on the console side," Iger told the LA Times. However, when Zynga has a stranglehold on nearly 250 million social gamers, is there truly room to grow? EA, one of the most massive game veterans in the world, can't even come close to the new kid on the block's numbers with just 33 million players total.
Gardens of Time
Though Playdom has arguably struck gold with Gardens of Time (pictured), an impressive hidden-object game that sits with the top 20 Facebook games, thanks to over 10 million monthly players and 2.4 million daily fans. Unfortunately, for Disney and Playdom to get out of this financial rut, they'll have to rise to investor expectations rather quickly.
In July, Facebook will begin to take a 30 percent cut of all virtual goods transactions made through games on the network, which will hurt even the mightiest of social game companies let alone the fifth place developer. Media analyst Doug Creutz told the LA Times that "Disney has a lot of work to do" if it wants to make up for its losses. But with July just over a month away, Disney might need Tinkerbell's help to make this comeback a reality. Or, the company could start making Facebook games using its immense properties already--was that not the point of this purchase in the first place?
[Image Credit: The Mudflats]
How do you think Disney and Playdom come rise from this decline? Is it even possible under the shadow of Zynga?
Surprisingly, Playdom has had quite the rough time since it was bought out by Disney last summer for a huge $563 million. And according to the Los Angeles Times, financial and media analysts foresee the developer facing a steep uphill battle to play again in the big leagues. Playdom's monthly player base dropped from its 40 million peak to just 25 million today since the Mickey Mouse money machine took over, according to AppData. That was thanks to a five-month drought of new games in 2010 as the company evaluated quality and boosted technical capacity. Now, after Disney Interactive posted over $915 million in losses over the past four years, analysts are voicing concerns.
In fact, analysts don't expect Disney's game division to show profits until 2013, according to the LA Times. In the insanely rapid world of social games, in which Zynga sits at the top with EA and its Playfish at a distant second, that does not bode well. Regardless, Disney CEO Robert Iger remains optimistic.
"The opportunity for growth on the social games side - at least at this point of our entry - is probably greater than it had been when we entered the space on the console side," Iger told the LA Times. However, when Zynga has a stranglehold on nearly 250 million social gamers, is there truly room to grow? EA, one of the most massive game veterans in the world, can't even come close to the new kid on the block's numbers with just 33 million players total.
Gardens of Time
Though Playdom has arguably struck gold with Gardens of Time (pictured), an impressive hidden-object game that sits with the top 20 Facebook games, thanks to over 10 million monthly players and 2.4 million daily fans. Unfortunately, for Disney and Playdom to get out of this financial rut, they'll have to rise to investor expectations rather quickly.
In July, Facebook will begin to take a 30 percent cut of all virtual goods transactions made through games on the network, which will hurt even the mightiest of social game companies let alone the fifth place developer. Media analyst Doug Creutz told the LA Times that "Disney has a lot of work to do" if it wants to make up for its losses. But with July just over a month away, Disney might need Tinkerbell's help to make this comeback a reality. Or, the company could start making Facebook games using its immense properties already--was that not the point of this purchase in the first place?
[Image Credit: The Mudflats]
How do you think Disney and Playdom come rise from this decline? Is it even possible under the shadow of Zynga?
Adventure Quest paved the way for GagaVille, Artix Entertainment says
Did this popular free-to-play browser massively multiplayer game (MMO) also blaze the trail for Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre and even Seth Rogen's involvement in Zynga's games as well? Artix Entertainment, creator of Adventure Quest Worlds, claims in a press release that its in-game celebrity promotions were the precursor to Zynga's immense Lady Gaga tie-in, GagaVille.
The company has held an annual Friday the 13th celebration within its flagship game since March 2009, which has featured apparent celebrities like "voice actor George Lowe, musical duo Paul & Storm with a cameo by singer/songwriter Jonathan Coulton, musician Voltaire, and musical band One Eyed Doll." Now, hopefully without sounding pompous, who the hell are any of these dudes?
The developer even cites SOE's Free Realms and KingIsle's Wizard 101 as followers to its tune with promotions involving Selena Gomez, The Dares and most recently Nick Jonas. If we really want to get technical, I'd say John Madden preemptively stopped this debate in its tracks with John Madden Football in 1988. So, eat that, Lady Gaga (don't forget Voltaire).
[Image Credit: MOPGD]
Do you think this counts as Artix having the first celebrity cameos in a social/online game? What's the point of this debate, again?
The company has held an annual Friday the 13th celebration within its flagship game since March 2009, which has featured apparent celebrities like "voice actor George Lowe, musical duo Paul & Storm with a cameo by singer/songwriter Jonathan Coulton, musician Voltaire, and musical band One Eyed Doll." Now, hopefully without sounding pompous, who the hell are any of these dudes?
The developer even cites SOE's Free Realms and KingIsle's Wizard 101 as followers to its tune with promotions involving Selena Gomez, The Dares and most recently Nick Jonas. If we really want to get technical, I'd say John Madden preemptively stopped this debate in its tracks with John Madden Football in 1988. So, eat that, Lady Gaga (don't forget Voltaire).
[Image Credit: MOPGD]
Do you think this counts as Artix having the first celebrity cameos in a social/online game? What's the point of this debate, again?
CityVille International Food Festival Goals
CityVille is celebrating food from around the world with the latest International Food Festival Goals. Here's an overview of all the goals:
GOAL: FOOD FESTIVAL!
-Harvest 25 Strawberries
-Harvest 30 Corn
-Gather 3 Eggplant Collection items.
GOAL: FESTIVAL RECIPES!
-Collect 5 times from any Bakery in your city
-Collect 3 times from any French Restaurant in your city
-Ask friends for 8 Skewers
GOAL: FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
-Visit 8 Friends
-Collect from any 4 neighbor's Modern Chateaus
-Collect from any French Restaurant 3 times
GOAL: PIGEONS FEST!
-Have 1 Greek restaurant in your city
-Collect from any 5 Greek Restaurants in your city
-Send Tour Busses to 4 Neighbor's Diners
GOAL: FESTIVAL TIME!
-Have 1 Thai Restaurant in your city
-Collect 4 times from any Thai Restaurant in your city
-Place 3 decorations in your city
What do you think about the newest restaurants to hit CityVille?
GOAL: FOOD FESTIVAL!
-Harvest 25 Strawberries
-Harvest 30 Corn
-Gather 3 Eggplant Collection items.
GOAL: FESTIVAL RECIPES!
-Collect 5 times from any Bakery in your city
-Collect 3 times from any French Restaurant in your city
-Ask friends for 8 Skewers
GOAL: FOOD FOR THOUGHT!
-Visit 8 Friends
-Collect from any 4 neighbor's Modern Chateaus
-Collect from any French Restaurant 3 times
GOAL: PIGEONS FEST!
-Have 1 Greek restaurant in your city
-Collect from any 5 Greek Restaurants in your city
-Send Tour Busses to 4 Neighbor's Diners
GOAL: FESTIVAL TIME!
-Have 1 Thai Restaurant in your city
-Collect 4 times from any Thai Restaurant in your city
-Place 3 decorations in your city
What do you think about the newest restaurants to hit CityVille?
FarmVille GagaVille Sneak Peek: Jewel Trees and Pink Gem Trees
If you're a fan of the Gem Trees released in FarmVille's GagaVille promotion, then hold onto your hats, as I've got some exciting news for you! There look to be two more pairs of GagaVille trees coming to the game in the near future. The first is the Jewel Tree and the Giant Jewel Tree. As you can see from the pictures, they're both masterable, and they look at bit like the Wedding Trees released a few weeks back.
For the other trees, we've seen a re-coloring of the regular Gem Tree to be bright pink. Again, we see a normal and giant version of the tree, as they are called the Pink Gem Tree and the Giant Gem Tree. Unfortunately, these trees will likely carry the higher Farm Cash prices as seen with other Lady Gaga-themed trees - 7 and 12 Farm Cash respectively, but we'll make sure to tell you otherwise if Zynga surprises us.
Check out the rest of our GagaVille coverage right here >
What do you think of these four new trees? Will you purchase the Jewel Trees, or are you just interested in the pink version of the Gem Tree?
For the other trees, we've seen a re-coloring of the regular Gem Tree to be bright pink. Again, we see a normal and giant version of the tree, as they are called the Pink Gem Tree and the Giant Gem Tree. Unfortunately, these trees will likely carry the higher Farm Cash prices as seen with other Lady Gaga-themed trees - 7 and 12 Farm Cash respectively, but we'll make sure to tell you otherwise if Zynga surprises us.
Check out the rest of our GagaVille coverage right here >
What do you think of these four new trees? Will you purchase the Jewel Trees, or are you just interested in the pink version of the Gem Tree?
FarmVille GagaVille Sneak Peek: Gaga Hologram, Enchanted Tree II, Crystal Fence and more
While we've seen two fairly large releases of Lady Gaga-themed items in FarmVille this week, the theme is far from over, as we've come across another large set of decorations that will soon be coming to the GagaVille limited edition item theme.The items range from decorative hedges to new pieces of fencing that will allow you to even further set your GagaVille item area apart form the rest of your farm.
From left to right in the image above, we have the Gaga Hologram, the Enchanted Tree II, a Crystal Fence, Lady Gaga sign, Lady Gaga Fan Gnome, Glittery Path, and Unicorn Topiary. For those that might be confused about what the Gaga Hologram actually entails, we've attached its animation beyond the break.
Sure enough, it's a hologram containing the Born This Way album art. Considering the work that probably went into creating this item and its animation, I wouldn't expect it to be any cheaper than 20 Farm Cash, but perhaps Zynga will surprise us. Either way, we'll make sure to let you know when these GagaVille items launch in the game, so keep checking back with us.
Check out the rest of our GagaVille coverage right here >
What do you think of these newest Lady Gaga decorations? How much would you be willing to pay for some of them? Should Zynga give some away for free?
From left to right in the image above, we have the Gaga Hologram, the Enchanted Tree II, a Crystal Fence, Lady Gaga sign, Lady Gaga Fan Gnome, Glittery Path, and Unicorn Topiary. For those that might be confused about what the Gaga Hologram actually entails, we've attached its animation beyond the break.
Sure enough, it's a hologram containing the Born This Way album art. Considering the work that probably went into creating this item and its animation, I wouldn't expect it to be any cheaper than 20 Farm Cash, but perhaps Zynga will surprise us. Either way, we'll make sure to let you know when these GagaVille items launch in the game, so keep checking back with us.
Check out the rest of our GagaVille coverage right here >
What do you think of these newest Lady Gaga decorations? How much would you be willing to pay for some of them? Should Zynga give some away for free?
FrontierVille Barfly Badge: Drink Concoctions at the Saloon for rewards
Want even more incentive to build and use the Saloon in FrontierVille? How about the chance to earn massive experience point and coin rewards for doing so? That's right - you can now simply use the Saloon to drink Concoctions, the drinks that you craft inside, to build up points towards the Bar Badge.
The first level of the Bar Badge is earned by simply drinking three Concoctions. Doing that will reward you with 100 XP and 500 coins (starting off slow, of course). From there, you'll need to drink more and more Concoctions for each badge - 15, 30, and finally 50 for the final badge. You'll earn 300, 1000, and 4,000 XP for each subsequent badge you earn, and will walk away with thousands of coins in the process.
Does this lessen the blow of having to build an entirely new building, and ask your friends for many (many) crafting items? That will be up to you, of course, but at least the rewards are there, if you choose to take the leap.
What do you think of the Saloon badges? Are the rewards good enough for you to keep drinking away?
The first level of the Bar Badge is earned by simply drinking three Concoctions. Doing that will reward you with 100 XP and 500 coins (starting off slow, of course). From there, you'll need to drink more and more Concoctions for each badge - 15, 30, and finally 50 for the final badge. You'll earn 300, 1000, and 4,000 XP for each subsequent badge you earn, and will walk away with thousands of coins in the process.
Does this lessen the blow of having to build an entirely new building, and ask your friends for many (many) crafting items? That will be up to you, of course, but at least the rewards are there, if you choose to take the leap.
What do you think of the Saloon badges? Are the rewards good enough for you to keep drinking away?
Saturday, December 24, 2011
FarmVille-maker Zynga might IPO as early as tomorrow
That was fast. CNBC reporter Kate Kelly tweeted today that Zynga will file for IPO as soon as tomorrow, and the company will raise an additional $1.5 to $2 billion. Not only that, but according to a CNBC broadcast regarding the news, Kelly put Zynga's valuation between $15 and $20 billion, which far exceeds any valuation to date. These are her words on that broadcast:
I'm hearing that Zynga is planning to file its IPO registration documents with the SEC as early as tomorrow. The game-maker, based in San Francisco, wants to raise between $1.5 billion and $2 billion dollars, I'm told, and has selected Morgan Stanley to lead its offering with Goldman Sachs in the secondary slot. [Bank of America], Barclays, and J.P. Morgan will also be involved from what I understand.
More importantly, that would make Zynga the most valuable games company on the globe after just four short years of existence. (EA is currently worth around $7.5 billion, while Activision Blizzard packs about $13.6 billion.) According to Kelly, Zynga has chosen Morgan Stanley, an investment firm, to lead the charge for at least a $1.5 billion-worth first outing.
We're sure the company is going to do just fine tomorrow, but it would be smart for CEO Mark Pincus to get his cross-platform games network off the ground A.S.A.P. if he wants to maximize this IPO. Especially if he wants to maintain the Zynga bulldog's lead on the pack of wild pups behind it. Grab your boards, because Zynga is about to make some serious waves in the videogames biz, brah.
I'm hearing that Zynga is planning to file its IPO registration documents with the SEC as early as tomorrow. The game-maker, based in San Francisco, wants to raise between $1.5 billion and $2 billion dollars, I'm told, and has selected Morgan Stanley to lead its offering with Goldman Sachs in the secondary slot. [Bank of America], Barclays, and J.P. Morgan will also be involved from what I understand.
More importantly, that would make Zynga the most valuable games company on the globe after just four short years of existence. (EA is currently worth around $7.5 billion, while Activision Blizzard packs about $13.6 billion.) According to Kelly, Zynga has chosen Morgan Stanley, an investment firm, to lead the charge for at least a $1.5 billion-worth first outing.
We're sure the company is going to do just fine tomorrow, but it would be smart for CEO Mark Pincus to get his cross-platform games network off the ground A.S.A.P. if he wants to maximize this IPO. Especially if he wants to maintain the Zynga bulldog's lead on the pack of wild pups behind it. Grab your boards, because Zynga is about to make some serious waves in the videogames biz, brah.
Hardcore games could battle social games on Facebook with OnLive
But let's not get ahead of ourselves. During an interview with MCV, OnLive founder and CEO Steve Perlman hinted that he's interested in bringing his videogame streaming service to Facebook. What the OnLive service does is bring hardcore, graphics (and hardware) intensive games to gamers with low-to-mid level machines over the Internet in HD resolution.
This is thanks to how far streaming technology has come, and the service is already coming to iPads soon. But now, "OnLive will," Perlman told MCV, "bring core gaming into a social space currently dominated by casual content."
Perlman went on to say: "The thing about FarmVille and Mafia Wars is that they work on every device for every user. So when you invite someone to help you or play with you, they're immediately there. With core games, you can't do that. With OnLive you can do that."
"So what's really exciting was actually buried in the initial press release, and that's the fact that all the Facebook interaction is exposed in the SDK, so developers can make games that are social games but are still high performance core games," Roberts told MCV. "You'll see the first of these round about the time of the UK launch."
OnLive Facebook
So, there you have it--hardcore games are coming to Facebook through OnLive. Not only that, but they'll be expected to have the common features of social games, competing with their own game. The way Roberts puts it, it's as if OnLive and Facebook game developers like Zynga will have to settle this rivalry on a green field with war paint and broadswords. But that's probably not going to happen, regardless of how awesome it sounds.
Today's Facebook games cater to a very specific audience, as do hardcore games. Just because more hardcore games become available on Facebook doesn't necessarily mean that social games will instantly get pushed to the side. In fact, it's going to take some time for OnLive to gain traction as is. Sure, OnLive lowers the barrier to entry to a piece of uneven pavement, but that does not mean social gamers will leap to a "richer experience" either. Believe or not, a lot of us like these games, and they're only becoming better, faster, stronger.
This is thanks to how far streaming technology has come, and the service is already coming to iPads soon. But now, "OnLive will," Perlman told MCV, "bring core gaming into a social space currently dominated by casual content."
Perlman went on to say: "The thing about FarmVille and Mafia Wars is that they work on every device for every user. So when you invite someone to help you or play with you, they're immediately there. With core games, you can't do that. With OnLive you can do that."
"So what's really exciting was actually buried in the initial press release, and that's the fact that all the Facebook interaction is exposed in the SDK, so developers can make games that are social games but are still high performance core games," Roberts told MCV. "You'll see the first of these round about the time of the UK launch."
OnLive Facebook
So, there you have it--hardcore games are coming to Facebook through OnLive. Not only that, but they'll be expected to have the common features of social games, competing with their own game. The way Roberts puts it, it's as if OnLive and Facebook game developers like Zynga will have to settle this rivalry on a green field with war paint and broadswords. But that's probably not going to happen, regardless of how awesome it sounds.
Today's Facebook games cater to a very specific audience, as do hardcore games. Just because more hardcore games become available on Facebook doesn't necessarily mean that social games will instantly get pushed to the side. In fact, it's going to take some time for OnLive to gain traction as is. Sure, OnLive lowers the barrier to entry to a piece of uneven pavement, but that does not mean social gamers will leap to a "richer experience" either. Believe or not, a lot of us like these games, and they're only becoming better, faster, stronger.
Bejeweled neon diamond lamp lights up PopCap's Week 3 charity auction
Easily recognizable from anywhere, the iconic Bejeweled diamond has been transformed into a neon lamp by Seattle artist Jeremy Bert. That glowy blue is just mesmerizing, isn't it?
Other eyecandy highlights for this week are canvas and sketches for Plants vs. Zombies, Zuma, and Peggle.
For the ceramic dishware fans (hey, that's me!) and the Facebook gamers out there, Erin Middendorf -- who's "PopCap's lead artist for Zuma Blitz by day, and master potter by night" -- has created a Zuma Blitz tea set. What an awesome follow-up to the Peggle sake set and the Plants vs. Zombies ceramic mug and bowl set!
Lastly, there's a Plants vs. Zombies outfit of the ubiquitous Zombie (see it in the video below) to complement last week's Peashooter costume. But it's not limited to Halloween, cause this is the same official costume that's been paraded around by PopCap's staff at major video games conventions, such as E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) and PAX (Penny Arcade Expo).
Zuma Blitz ceramic tea set
PopCap reports that nearly $2,000 USD were raised from Week 2. That money will be going to the Starlight Children's Foundation in America and SpecialEffect in the United Kingdom. To start placing your bids, visit: www.ebay.com/popcap.
Other eyecandy highlights for this week are canvas and sketches for Plants vs. Zombies, Zuma, and Peggle.
For the ceramic dishware fans (hey, that's me!) and the Facebook gamers out there, Erin Middendorf -- who's "PopCap's lead artist for Zuma Blitz by day, and master potter by night" -- has created a Zuma Blitz tea set. What an awesome follow-up to the Peggle sake set and the Plants vs. Zombies ceramic mug and bowl set!
Lastly, there's a Plants vs. Zombies outfit of the ubiquitous Zombie (see it in the video below) to complement last week's Peashooter costume. But it's not limited to Halloween, cause this is the same official costume that's been paraded around by PopCap's staff at major video games conventions, such as E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) and PAX (Penny Arcade Expo).
Zuma Blitz ceramic tea set
PopCap reports that nearly $2,000 USD were raised from Week 2. That money will be going to the Starlight Children's Foundation in America and SpecialEffect in the United Kingdom. To start placing your bids, visit: www.ebay.com/popcap.
Family Guy Online: Quahog's first family gets its very own online multiplayer game
If preaching from the Good Book in Holy Town isn't your idea of a superior social game, what about a new online game based on the Fox's semi-irreverent animated show, Family Guy?
Yup, it looks like Peter, Lois, Stewie and the rest of the Griffin family will be making their debut on a web browser near you in the new multiplayer game, Family Guy Online. Right now, there are no real details available on FGO, other than it's coming in Fall 2011. There's also its recently launched official site, which you can visit and sign up for a chance to play the closed beta version of the game, as well as an official Facebook fan page for the game which you can 'Like' to get more info on the fly.
Gallery: Family Guy Online
So, as you ponder what exactly a Family Guy Online game will be like (will you be able to tour of Peter's favorite watering hole, the Drunken Clam? Can you play as Stewie and finally take over the universe? Will the entire family spontaneously break into song?), we'll dig around to see what other scraps of information we can unearth in the meantime.
Yup, it looks like Peter, Lois, Stewie and the rest of the Griffin family will be making their debut on a web browser near you in the new multiplayer game, Family Guy Online. Right now, there are no real details available on FGO, other than it's coming in Fall 2011. There's also its recently launched official site, which you can visit and sign up for a chance to play the closed beta version of the game, as well as an official Facebook fan page for the game which you can 'Like' to get more info on the fly.
Gallery: Family Guy Online
So, as you ponder what exactly a Family Guy Online game will be like (will you be able to tour of Peter's favorite watering hole, the Drunken Clam? Can you play as Stewie and finally take over the universe? Will the entire family spontaneously break into song?), we'll dig around to see what other scraps of information we can unearth in the meantime.
World of Warcraft goes free to play (until Level 20)
The question is: Will you be able to stop after that? The only hardcore MMO (massively multi-player online game) to rival the numbers--but not the value--of Zynga's top social games, World of Warcraft (WoW), has gone free-to-play. Well, until you reach Level 20. Then, creator Blizzard will force you to cough up $15, if you want to keep exploring Azeroth.
Kotaku reports that Blizzard has made the game free for its first 20 levels as part of its Rage of the Firelands, or Patch 4.2, major content update. The billionaire company is calling this new feature World of Warcraft Starter Edition, which replaces the old seven-day and 14-day long free trials that players used before to rope their friends into the high-fantasy equivalent of crack cocaine. (Seriously, I've been on and off the stuff for six years ... WoW, I mean.)
Clearly the new feature is in response to free-to-play offerings from, oh, I don't know, every MMO and Facebook game to launch in the past year or two? The game recently dipped under its peak of 12 million players to 11.4 million in May, so this move could also be in hopes of restoring that magic number that Blizzard liked to tout so much. Hey, we would tout until the cows came home if we had a videogame with 12 million players, too.
Rage of the Firelands
WoW is also designed to run on computers with low-grade or entry-level hardware, something that Facebook games have become a master of. Besides, Blizzard's Mark Morehaime and Frank Pearce don't exactly hate FarmVille. So, perhaps Blizzard is trying to sap a bit of that attractive energy from Facebook games like Empires & Allies that we know commonly as "free." And what's better than free?
[Image Credit: Blizzard]
Do you think Blizzard has made a portion of its number one game free to keep up with the growing trend of "games as services?" Do you think Blizzard will continue down this route in future projects?
Kotaku reports that Blizzard has made the game free for its first 20 levels as part of its Rage of the Firelands, or Patch 4.2, major content update. The billionaire company is calling this new feature World of Warcraft Starter Edition, which replaces the old seven-day and 14-day long free trials that players used before to rope their friends into the high-fantasy equivalent of crack cocaine. (Seriously, I've been on and off the stuff for six years ... WoW, I mean.)
Clearly the new feature is in response to free-to-play offerings from, oh, I don't know, every MMO and Facebook game to launch in the past year or two? The game recently dipped under its peak of 12 million players to 11.4 million in May, so this move could also be in hopes of restoring that magic number that Blizzard liked to tout so much. Hey, we would tout until the cows came home if we had a videogame with 12 million players, too.
Rage of the Firelands
WoW is also designed to run on computers with low-grade or entry-level hardware, something that Facebook games have become a master of. Besides, Blizzard's Mark Morehaime and Frank Pearce don't exactly hate FarmVille. So, perhaps Blizzard is trying to sap a bit of that attractive energy from Facebook games like Empires & Allies that we know commonly as "free." And what's better than free?
[Image Credit: Blizzard]
Do you think Blizzard has made a portion of its number one game free to keep up with the growing trend of "games as services?" Do you think Blizzard will continue down this route in future projects?
FarmVille: 40% off Farm Cash sale happening now on iPhone / iPad
If you have FarmVille installed on either your iPhone or iPad, you've likely received an exciting notification today: Farm Cash is being offered for 40% off the normal purchase price, but only for a limited time. To be clear, this sale looks to only be taking place through the iOS versions of the game: iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch only.
To take advantage of this sale, you'd simply enter into the mobile game's market, and click on the "Add Coins & Cash" button to see your available options. Right now, you can pick up packages of Farm Cash ranging from 4 Farm Cash for $0.99 to 650 Farm Cash for $59.99. Of course, a more reasonable package might see you spending just $11.99 for 115 Farm Cash, which might even be enough to last you until the next sale takes place. Of course, as you access this sale through your iPhone or iPad (if you're currently signed into iTunes), all you'll have to do is click on a confirmation window and give your password to confirm the purchase.
Either way, this is an exciting opportunity for mobile farmers, so make sure to take advantage while you can!
To take advantage of this sale, you'd simply enter into the mobile game's market, and click on the "Add Coins & Cash" button to see your available options. Right now, you can pick up packages of Farm Cash ranging from 4 Farm Cash for $0.99 to 650 Farm Cash for $59.99. Of course, a more reasonable package might see you spending just $11.99 for 115 Farm Cash, which might even be enough to last you until the next sale takes place. Of course, as you access this sale through your iPhone or iPad (if you're currently signed into iTunes), all you'll have to do is click on a confirmation window and give your password to confirm the purchase.
Either way, this is an exciting opportunity for mobile farmers, so make sure to take advantage while you can!
Cafe World Go Full Screen Goals: Everything you need to know
Back in December, we brought you a Wishful Feature concerning the lack of full screen gameplay in Cafe World. Well chefs, it seems like after all of our adamant complain-- err, suggesting, Zynga has finally listened. While full screen gameplay in Cafe World will be unleashed to the masses in "a few weeks," if you don't want to wait, you can unlock the mode early by completing a set of Goals appropriately titled "Go Full Screen," that sees you helping Ziggy [pictured] "invent" the full screen gameplay mode.
Yes, it seems a bit odd that we should have to complete Goals to unlock a gameplay option that should have been available from the start, but alas. If you're like me, chomping at the proverbial bit for full screen play, then follow along with us as we take a look at this goal series.
Go Full Screen 1:
Serve Chips and Guacamole 10 times
Spice 5 Neighbor Dishes
Find one Type of Quantum Collection item
Our clue for finding the Quantum Collection item is to "Use Spices," so do just that and you'll eventually find one. I only had to spice a single stove to receive a Quantum Carrot, so they don't look to be too hard to find (note: you can spice your own stoves to receive them, so feel free to use those peppers and salts you might have on hand). Your reward for finishing this goal is the Biscuits of Tomorrow recipe. This new dish takes over most of the next few goals, which will eventually require you to master it entirely.
Go Full Screen 2:
Serve 20 Biscuits of Tomorrow
Find 3 types of Quantum Collection items
Ask for 3 Bubbling Beakers
The Beakers are earned from friends. Meanwhile, the Biscuits of Tomorrow recipe is available to cook for 3,000 coins. It takes four hours to prepare, serves 200, and returns 5,000 coins in total. Remember, you can use spices to speed up the cooking time here, which is appropriate, as you'll need to use spices to earn those additional Quantum Collection items.
Go Full Screen 3:
Spice 10 Neighbor Dishes
Master Biscuits of Tomorrow to Level 1
Find 4 Types of Quantum Collection items
The first level of Biscuits of Tomorrow mastery comes at 30 servings, so after finishing the last goal, you'll only need to serve the dish ten more times to meet that milestone.
Go Full Screen 4:
Trade in the Quantum Collection
Master Biscuits of Tomorrow to Level 2
Ask for 8 Jolting Generators
You guessed it - all of these Quantum Collection items will eventually need to be turned in, which you can do via the in-game collections cabinet. Meanwhile, your friends can send you the Jolting Generators. Just click on the "ask" button to ask them to help you out.
Go Full Screen 5:
Master Biscuits of Tomorrow to Level 3
Ask for 15 Stylish Smocks
Spice 15 Neighbor Dishes
Are you tired of cooking the Biscuits of Tomorrow? Good, because we're not done yet. By the end of this goal, you will need to have completely mastered the dish, so I hope you don't fall behind on your duties and let these biscuits spoil. Luckily, you have two other tasks to occupy your time while waiting for them to cook. After finishing this goal, you are technically allowed to play in full screen mode, but there's still a final, fairly useless Goal to complete afterward.
Go Full Screen 6:
Active Fullscreen!
Basically, this Goal works as a way to introduce you to the Full Screen button, which can be found in the very bottom right corner of the gameplay area, next to the settings menu (where you'd zoom your view in and out, change the visual quality and so on). For simply entering into full screen a single time, you'll complete this goal and will be the proud owner of a Super Big Screen TV decoration for your trouble.
While playing in full screen sounds like it will be fantastic, the real test will be whether or not the game can stand up to the pressure of our massive cafes while playing in full screen. After all of the time Zynga has spent implementing the option, we can only assume it will be great. You can believe they'll hear about it if it isn't.
Yes, it seems a bit odd that we should have to complete Goals to unlock a gameplay option that should have been available from the start, but alas. If you're like me, chomping at the proverbial bit for full screen play, then follow along with us as we take a look at this goal series.
Go Full Screen 1:
Serve Chips and Guacamole 10 times
Spice 5 Neighbor Dishes
Find one Type of Quantum Collection item
Our clue for finding the Quantum Collection item is to "Use Spices," so do just that and you'll eventually find one. I only had to spice a single stove to receive a Quantum Carrot, so they don't look to be too hard to find (note: you can spice your own stoves to receive them, so feel free to use those peppers and salts you might have on hand). Your reward for finishing this goal is the Biscuits of Tomorrow recipe. This new dish takes over most of the next few goals, which will eventually require you to master it entirely.
Go Full Screen 2:
Serve 20 Biscuits of Tomorrow
Find 3 types of Quantum Collection items
Ask for 3 Bubbling Beakers
The Beakers are earned from friends. Meanwhile, the Biscuits of Tomorrow recipe is available to cook for 3,000 coins. It takes four hours to prepare, serves 200, and returns 5,000 coins in total. Remember, you can use spices to speed up the cooking time here, which is appropriate, as you'll need to use spices to earn those additional Quantum Collection items.
Go Full Screen 3:
Spice 10 Neighbor Dishes
Master Biscuits of Tomorrow to Level 1
Find 4 Types of Quantum Collection items
The first level of Biscuits of Tomorrow mastery comes at 30 servings, so after finishing the last goal, you'll only need to serve the dish ten more times to meet that milestone.
Go Full Screen 4:
Trade in the Quantum Collection
Master Biscuits of Tomorrow to Level 2
Ask for 8 Jolting Generators
You guessed it - all of these Quantum Collection items will eventually need to be turned in, which you can do via the in-game collections cabinet. Meanwhile, your friends can send you the Jolting Generators. Just click on the "ask" button to ask them to help you out.
Go Full Screen 5:
Master Biscuits of Tomorrow to Level 3
Ask for 15 Stylish Smocks
Spice 15 Neighbor Dishes
Are you tired of cooking the Biscuits of Tomorrow? Good, because we're not done yet. By the end of this goal, you will need to have completely mastered the dish, so I hope you don't fall behind on your duties and let these biscuits spoil. Luckily, you have two other tasks to occupy your time while waiting for them to cook. After finishing this goal, you are technically allowed to play in full screen mode, but there's still a final, fairly useless Goal to complete afterward.
Go Full Screen 6:
Active Fullscreen!
Basically, this Goal works as a way to introduce you to the Full Screen button, which can be found in the very bottom right corner of the gameplay area, next to the settings menu (where you'd zoom your view in and out, change the visual quality and so on). For simply entering into full screen a single time, you'll complete this goal and will be the proud owner of a Super Big Screen TV decoration for your trouble.
While playing in full screen sounds like it will be fantastic, the real test will be whether or not the game can stand up to the pressure of our massive cafes while playing in full screen. After all of the time Zynga has spent implementing the option, we can only assume it will be great. You can believe they'll hear about it if it isn't.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Take-Two taking the 'wait-and-see' approach with social games
So, basically, don't expect Grand Theft Auto on Facebook anytime soon. In a recent earnings call, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick announced that the company would be taking a new approach to their future gaming lineup, to remove their "dependence" on Grand Theft Auto. As reported by Edge, Zelnick has announced that the company is "focused on building new franchises. For example, you can look at what Red Dead Redemption did for us in our last fiscal year." If that means that more Red Dead Redemption games are in the works, I'm definitely all for it - but wait! Does this diversification of Take-Two's approach mean we'll see the company branching into social games? I wouldn't count on it.
Zelnick commented on social gaming juggernaut Zynga, stating that their games were far too different, when compared to the titles produced by Take-Two. "The business Zynga's in has only been around for about four years," he said. "Playing Zynga titles doesn't scratch the same itch as playing Grand Theft Auto - that's a dynamic that doesn't change in the videogame business."
Does that mean Take-Two thinks their games are better, or simply different? With other hardcore game developers already jumping into the Facebook game pool (Ubisoft and EA, as examples), it would only make sense for Take-Two to dive in as well, but it doesn't look like the company has any interest in doing so. At most, they've only confirmed that they're "keeping an eye" on other platforms, like mobile. Either way, it leaves us to wonder: if Take-Two does eventually warm up to the Facebook gaming idea, will it be too little, too late? Only time will tell.
Zelnick commented on social gaming juggernaut Zynga, stating that their games were far too different, when compared to the titles produced by Take-Two. "The business Zynga's in has only been around for about four years," he said. "Playing Zynga titles doesn't scratch the same itch as playing Grand Theft Auto - that's a dynamic that doesn't change in the videogame business."
Does that mean Take-Two thinks their games are better, or simply different? With other hardcore game developers already jumping into the Facebook game pool (Ubisoft and EA, as examples), it would only make sense for Take-Two to dive in as well, but it doesn't look like the company has any interest in doing so. At most, they've only confirmed that they're "keeping an eye" on other platforms, like mobile. Either way, it leaves us to wonder: if Take-Two does eventually warm up to the Facebook gaming idea, will it be too little, too late? Only time will tell.
FrontierVille Dogless Shepherd Timed Goal Out Now: Everything you need to know
Shirley is a FrontierVille Sheep Herder, on her way west through the Pioneer Trail. Unfortunately, it seems that Shirley has lost her sheepdog, bringing us a new timed goal: the Dogless Shepherd. We brought you a sneak peek of this goal about a week ago, and now know the exact specifics of the required tasks and the rewards. As a refresher, you'll need to help Shirley by completing three tasks:
Clear 30 Grass on a Neighbor's Homestead
Collect 10 Doggy Toys
Collect 10 Doggy Treats
Luckily, 30 grass will likely be easy to find if you just visit the first six friends on your friends list (by scrolling to the far left and visiting neighbors that no longer play), as their land will be overgrown with debris. After you've collected the other 20 items, you'll be able to lay claim to the prizes for this time goal: Chunky Chow x10, 400XP, and 300 coins.
Remember, as this is a timed goal, it comes with some rules. You must start the goal manually by clicking on its icon on the left-hand side of the screen, and you must do so by August 31. From the time you start the goal, you'll have seven days to complete it, or else you'll lose all progress (and your chance at the prizes in the process). Luckily, this goal isn't very hard, and you should have no problems finishing it within seven days if you put even the slightest of effort into the process. Good luck!
What do you think of this newest timed goal? Are you becoming overwhelmed with timed and other goals in FrontierVille, or do you appreciate the constant flow of new content?
Clear 30 Grass on a Neighbor's Homestead
Collect 10 Doggy Toys
Collect 10 Doggy Treats
Luckily, 30 grass will likely be easy to find if you just visit the first six friends on your friends list (by scrolling to the far left and visiting neighbors that no longer play), as their land will be overgrown with debris. After you've collected the other 20 items, you'll be able to lay claim to the prizes for this time goal: Chunky Chow x10, 400XP, and 300 coins.
Remember, as this is a timed goal, it comes with some rules. You must start the goal manually by clicking on its icon on the left-hand side of the screen, and you must do so by August 31. From the time you start the goal, you'll have seven days to complete it, or else you'll lose all progress (and your chance at the prizes in the process). Luckily, this goal isn't very hard, and you should have no problems finishing it within seven days if you put even the slightest of effort into the process. Good luck!
What do you think of this newest timed goal? Are you becoming overwhelmed with timed and other goals in FrontierVille, or do you appreciate the constant flow of new content?
FarmVille Beehive now available in the English Countryside
If you've got a lot of Beehives in your FarmVille Gift Box, but don't have anywhere to put them, you'll be happy to know that you can finally put them to good use by placing a Beehive on your land in the English Countryside. It seems as though this ability is on a slow rollout to farmers, as I personally don't have access to this second Beehive, but many players on the game's forums have confirmed that they've purchased one (and an official moderator has all but confirmed its existence). It could also be that we're only allowed to have a single Beehive for both farms, but I simply don't see that being the case.
There's no word yet on how many bees it will take to fill this Beehive, but we can only imagine it will be the same as the original: a Queen Bee and enough worker bees to add up to 200. From then, you'll be able to have these bees pollinate your English Countryside crops, resulting in extra bushels coming your way. Use the bushels for crafting and voila! You'll be rolling in extra goodies before you know it.
If the stipulations change for the English Countryside version of the Beehive, we'll make sure to let you know.
Will you build a second Beehive if given the chance, or will you ignore the quest for 200 more Bees until you have more building materials at the ready?
There's no word yet on how many bees it will take to fill this Beehive, but we can only imagine it will be the same as the original: a Queen Bee and enough worker bees to add up to 200. From then, you'll be able to have these bees pollinate your English Countryside crops, resulting in extra bushels coming your way. Use the bushels for crafting and voila! You'll be rolling in extra goodies before you know it.
If the stipulations change for the English Countryside version of the Beehive, we'll make sure to let you know.
Will you build a second Beehive if given the chance, or will you ignore the quest for 200 more Bees until you have more building materials at the ready?
THQ reorganization places major focus on social games
With just 9,000 monthly active users across its entire catalog of Facebook games (according to AppData), it's easy to say that THQ has plenty of climbing left to do to make a stand in the social space. With its upcoming MargaritaVille Online game for Facebook, it's clear that THQ has seen the light, but that light might turn into a giant beacon after the company's recent reorganization.
In a recent press release, THQ announced that the company will place its focus into four major digital areas, one of which is social gaming. In fact, the social gaming space actually comes in at number two on the four-part list (number one being an increased focus on established IP like Saints Row). In terms of social games, the company wishes to "create a critical mass of users on social media platforms such as Facebook and mobile platforms, including iOS and Android(TM), using THQ-owned or branded content, such as the upcoming fall release of Margaritaville(R) Online, based on Jimmy Buffett's popular brand."
So what does this mean for the end-user? If I had to make an educated guess, I'd wager that we'll likely see a slew of side-games released on the service in the same way as EA's Dragon Age: Legends was released; that is, games that tie-in to the console versions of THQ's new titles, offering players incentive to play the Facebook game as well. Of course, if MargaritaVille takes off, we could see plenty of other branded or at least original titles released in the future as well. If anything, it almost seems as though THQ is dedicated enough to the social gaming space to throw tons of games at the wall and see which ones stick. Either way, we'll make sure to keep track of THQ's continued social gaming efforts, and will bring you all of the news on MargaritaVille as soon as we know more.
Which THQ franchises would you like to see given social games? Would you play social games on Facebook if you were given items back in the console games as rewards?
In a recent press release, THQ announced that the company will place its focus into four major digital areas, one of which is social gaming. In fact, the social gaming space actually comes in at number two on the four-part list (number one being an increased focus on established IP like Saints Row). In terms of social games, the company wishes to "create a critical mass of users on social media platforms such as Facebook and mobile platforms, including iOS and Android(TM), using THQ-owned or branded content, such as the upcoming fall release of Margaritaville(R) Online, based on Jimmy Buffett's popular brand."
So what does this mean for the end-user? If I had to make an educated guess, I'd wager that we'll likely see a slew of side-games released on the service in the same way as EA's Dragon Age: Legends was released; that is, games that tie-in to the console versions of THQ's new titles, offering players incentive to play the Facebook game as well. Of course, if MargaritaVille takes off, we could see plenty of other branded or at least original titles released in the future as well. If anything, it almost seems as though THQ is dedicated enough to the social gaming space to throw tons of games at the wall and see which ones stick. Either way, we'll make sure to keep track of THQ's continued social gaming efforts, and will bring you all of the news on MargaritaVille as soon as we know more.
Which THQ franchises would you like to see given social games? Would you play social games on Facebook if you were given items back in the console games as rewards?
Cafe World Baby Naming Party Catering Order: Everything you need to know
A new catering order has launched in Cafe World dealing with the exciting idea of picking out baby names. Appropriately enough, the order is called the Baby Naming Party Catering Order, but oddly, this baby already has a name: David. Either way, this isn't really about the story; it's about the cooking, so let's get right to it!
You'll need to serve Smoked Salmon Latkes (a two-hour dish) 275 times, Homestyle Pot Roast (a two-day dish) 70 times, and Jammin' Jelly Donuts (a 20-minute dish) 75 times. Altogether, these three tasks aren't overly complicated. If you've been stocking up on Pot Roasts, or have friends that have been, you'll be able to easily finish off the 70 required servings. Speaking of friends, you can bring 15 of them with you into the order to help you out.
In addition to the cooking tasks (which, again, aren't terrible), you'll need to collect just six items: two each of Baby Powders, Blue and White Balloons and Diapers. You can do this by clicking on the ask button next to each item and then asking your friends to help you out. You'll have just three days to accomplish all of the above, which will net you 15 Catering Points, 7,500 Cafe Points, 200,000 coins and the Sweet Potato Pancake recipe.
Of course, if you fail to finish the order within three days, you'll be able to finish it at any time after, but you won't receive the Sweet Potato Pancake recipe, and your other rewards will also be decreased. Still, the great three-star prizes seem to be pretty worth giving this one a shot either way. It's nice to see a less complicated Catering Order come around, so remember to take advantage of this one while you can; we'll likely find ourselves presented with other orders or even goals quicker than you can turn on your virtual stoves. Whether or not that's a good thing will ultimately be up to you.
[Image Credit: Zynga]
What do you think of this Baby Naming Catering Order? Are you happy to see an easier order released, or do you appreciate those that offer a true challenge?
You'll need to serve Smoked Salmon Latkes (a two-hour dish) 275 times, Homestyle Pot Roast (a two-day dish) 70 times, and Jammin' Jelly Donuts (a 20-minute dish) 75 times. Altogether, these three tasks aren't overly complicated. If you've been stocking up on Pot Roasts, or have friends that have been, you'll be able to easily finish off the 70 required servings. Speaking of friends, you can bring 15 of them with you into the order to help you out.
In addition to the cooking tasks (which, again, aren't terrible), you'll need to collect just six items: two each of Baby Powders, Blue and White Balloons and Diapers. You can do this by clicking on the ask button next to each item and then asking your friends to help you out. You'll have just three days to accomplish all of the above, which will net you 15 Catering Points, 7,500 Cafe Points, 200,000 coins and the Sweet Potato Pancake recipe.
Of course, if you fail to finish the order within three days, you'll be able to finish it at any time after, but you won't receive the Sweet Potato Pancake recipe, and your other rewards will also be decreased. Still, the great three-star prizes seem to be pretty worth giving this one a shot either way. It's nice to see a less complicated Catering Order come around, so remember to take advantage of this one while you can; we'll likely find ourselves presented with other orders or even goals quicker than you can turn on your virtual stoves. Whether or not that's a good thing will ultimately be up to you.
[Image Credit: Zynga]
What do you think of this Baby Naming Catering Order? Are you happy to see an easier order released, or do you appreciate those that offer a true challenge?
With Wall Street Game on Facebook, you can pretend everything's OK
What wonderful timing you have, Ender's Fund. (And yes, the game is simply titled Wall Street Game.) The developer, which has little to no web presence, recently released its free market trading game on Facebook, and it couldn't be more aptly titled. The game begins with a terribly dramatic intro about a man losing it all on the stock market, only for a legendary investor to swoop in and write him a $10 million check. That man is you, and it's time to make some money.
Wall Street Game, rather than simply present players with spreadsheets and mock Excel documents filled with numbers and foreign symbols, takes on the familiar isometric, avatar-driven play style of most Facebook games. (However, there are lots of numbers to translate if you've never invested in company stock before.)
There are a number of customization options for your wheelin' dealin' trader, but what's more important is the gameplay. The game uses real time data from the stock market to influence gameplay, which is basically gaming the market by buying and selling at the correct times.
Wall Street Game Facebook in action
However, it's made competitive through throw-downs, or challenges to your friends to see who can make the most market gains in a period of time. The developer says, "If you are winning in our game, you could be winning on the real Wall Street." Perhaps we just found the cure to the already-ailing stock market ... nah, but how about a nice alternate reality for the troubled trader to escape into? Wall Street Game has just 407 monthly players since its July release, so we hope would-be traders latch onto either motive, and fast.
Click here to play Wall Street Game on Facebook Now >
[Via Business Insider]
Would you ever play a game surrounding the stock market? Do you think there's a interest in Facebook gamers for true-to-life simulations in Facebook games?
Wall Street Game, rather than simply present players with spreadsheets and mock Excel documents filled with numbers and foreign symbols, takes on the familiar isometric, avatar-driven play style of most Facebook games. (However, there are lots of numbers to translate if you've never invested in company stock before.)
There are a number of customization options for your wheelin' dealin' trader, but what's more important is the gameplay. The game uses real time data from the stock market to influence gameplay, which is basically gaming the market by buying and selling at the correct times.
Wall Street Game Facebook in action
However, it's made competitive through throw-downs, or challenges to your friends to see who can make the most market gains in a period of time. The developer says, "If you are winning in our game, you could be winning on the real Wall Street." Perhaps we just found the cure to the already-ailing stock market ... nah, but how about a nice alternate reality for the troubled trader to escape into? Wall Street Game has just 407 monthly players since its July release, so we hope would-be traders latch onto either motive, and fast.
Click here to play Wall Street Game on Facebook Now >
[Via Business Insider]
Would you ever play a game surrounding the stock market? Do you think there's a interest in Facebook gamers for true-to-life simulations in Facebook games?
EA social games exec ditches for the top dog, Zynga [Rumor]
And, no, this would certainly not be the first. Develop reports that Jeff Karp, an executive heavily involved with EA's social games efforts, is leaving for number one competitor Zynga. More specifically, Karp was executive VP of EA Play, the company's family-friendly games division, as of six months ago.
The website cites an anonymous US source that "engages with EA at senior levels," and said that Karp has made his intention to leave known. Karp, after an 11-year stint with the veteran games publisher, joins former EA CCO John Schappert in his reported move to Zynga.
In fact, Karp would join a number of former high-level EA employees in his move to another social games company. Just recently, it's been rumored that creator of NBA Jam and former senior creative director at EA Sports Mark Turmell left for Zynga in July. And way back in June, we know that Ben Cousins, GM of EA casual game developer Easy Studios, left to head Ngmoco's Sweden studio. Of course, who could forget former EA CCO Bing Gordon, who is now an investor in the creator of CityVille? (And the list goes on, really.)
The news comes as EA shifts its leadership structure to include existing high-level EA employees Peter Moore, Andrew Wilson and Frank Gibeau in even more senior roles. Amidst losing several execs, EA just released The Sims Social to Facebook. While it suffered performance issues on its first day out of the gate, it's certainly an ambitious effort on the platform, and one that could help make EA a viable competitor in the social games space. We've contacted both EA and Zynga for comment.
Do you think Karp, if true, made a good decision in joining Zynga? How do you think EA is going to handle losing this many of its high-level employees, namely in its casual and social sectors?
The website cites an anonymous US source that "engages with EA at senior levels," and said that Karp has made his intention to leave known. Karp, after an 11-year stint with the veteran games publisher, joins former EA CCO John Schappert in his reported move to Zynga.
In fact, Karp would join a number of former high-level EA employees in his move to another social games company. Just recently, it's been rumored that creator of NBA Jam and former senior creative director at EA Sports Mark Turmell left for Zynga in July. And way back in June, we know that Ben Cousins, GM of EA casual game developer Easy Studios, left to head Ngmoco's Sweden studio. Of course, who could forget former EA CCO Bing Gordon, who is now an investor in the creator of CityVille? (And the list goes on, really.)
The news comes as EA shifts its leadership structure to include existing high-level EA employees Peter Moore, Andrew Wilson and Frank Gibeau in even more senior roles. Amidst losing several execs, EA just released The Sims Social to Facebook. While it suffered performance issues on its first day out of the gate, it's certainly an ambitious effort on the platform, and one that could help make EA a viable competitor in the social games space. We've contacted both EA and Zynga for comment.
Do you think Karp, if true, made a good decision in joining Zynga? How do you think EA is going to handle losing this many of its high-level employees, namely in its casual and social sectors?
Game of the Day: City Siege 2
city siege 2 game of the day
In City Siege 2, repel the invading forces from the beach resort. The resort is under siege and as a result, the beach is crawling with armed soldiers.It's up to you to save the civilians and VIPs, and kill all the baddies. But you won't be alone, with vehicles, special forces, and a host of powerful weapons, the invaders don't stand a chance. Get in there and save the resort!
Click here to play City Siege 2!
city siege 2 game of the day city siege 2 game of the day
Pro Tips:
Before engaging an enemy, survey the situation. Explosive barrels and vents can make your job a lot easier.
Walk over civilians and VIPs to evacuate them from the battlefield, that way there is no chance of them getting KIA.
Bullets curve slightly in City Siege. Aim slightly above what you're aiming at.
If you're under fire but behind cover, aim at the enemy, jump, and then shoot. You shouldn't take any damage this way.
Click here to play City Siege 2!
Have any other tips? What did you think of City Siege 2?
In City Siege 2, repel the invading forces from the beach resort. The resort is under siege and as a result, the beach is crawling with armed soldiers.It's up to you to save the civilians and VIPs, and kill all the baddies. But you won't be alone, with vehicles, special forces, and a host of powerful weapons, the invaders don't stand a chance. Get in there and save the resort!
Click here to play City Siege 2!
city siege 2 game of the day city siege 2 game of the day
Pro Tips:
Before engaging an enemy, survey the situation. Explosive barrels and vents can make your job a lot easier.
Walk over civilians and VIPs to evacuate them from the battlefield, that way there is no chance of them getting KIA.
Bullets curve slightly in City Siege. Aim slightly above what you're aiming at.
If you're under fire but behind cover, aim at the enemy, jump, and then shoot. You shouldn't take any damage this way.
Click here to play City Siege 2!
Have any other tips? What did you think of City Siege 2?
Have not one, but two Malls in CityVille, thanks to future update
We all know that no growing city can do with just one mall. (Seriously, how many malls do you have in your hometown? And those strip malls count, too.) So, of course, Zynga has released a second Mall for CityVille players to enjoy. However, the feature appears to be slowly rolling out to players, as many on the forums have received a promotional notification without the update actually appearing ... though it clearly reads, "Build a second Mall in your City today!"
However, we doubt this will add any sort of new functionality to the game. While it will likely play just like the existing Mall in the game, it sure helps to have room for more businesses to fit in the Mall--things were getting cramped in there. We'll have more details as soon as this feature goes live. Until then, just cross your fingers that at least a texture redesign is in the works.
[Image Credit: mislanders]
Do you think the game needed a second Mall? What other consolidating features do you think CityVille could benefit from?
However, we doubt this will add any sort of new functionality to the game. While it will likely play just like the existing Mall in the game, it sure helps to have room for more businesses to fit in the Mall--things were getting cramped in there. We'll have more details as soon as this feature goes live. Until then, just cross your fingers that at least a texture redesign is in the works.
[Image Credit: mislanders]
Do you think the game needed a second Mall? What other consolidating features do you think CityVille could benefit from?
Empires & Allies Quest Manager, new leaderboards spur competition
The Goal section on the left side of your game screen has its days numbered, my friends. Keeping track of your Goals has always been a pain in games like FrontierVille, FarmVille and even Empires & Allies, but no longer.
Zynga has released the brand new Quest Manager to Empires & Allies (E&A). This feature that consolidate all of your outstanding Goals, which I guess are called Quests from here on out (please, make up your mind, guys), and allows players to sort their Quests accordingly.
While that's essentially a convenience update, the developer also released two new leaderboards to the game that cover Honor and Infamy. You know, the red and black hearts you collect for helping and invading friends' empires, respectively? Now, players who collect the most of either resource will place on these two new weekly leaderboards.
Empires Allies Quest Manager
And it looks like you will have more than 12 days each time around to qualify for the three milestone prizes at 250, 750 and 1,000 red hearts as well as 500, 2,500 and 10,000 black hearts. Here are the rewards (for this period, at least):
Honor Dash Milestone Rewards:
250 Hearts:F-35 Lightning II (Air Force Unit)
750 Hearts: Rafale Fighter (Air Force Unit)
1,000 Hearts: Tactical Nuke
Infamy Dash Milestone Rewards:
500 Hearts: Air Strike III
2,500 Hearts: Accuracy III
10,000 Hearts: Tactical Nuke
Empires Allies Leaderboard in action
Better yet, players can choose to help or invade their friends right from the Honor Dash and Infamy Dash leaderboards. It's exciting to see Zynga embrace, albeit slightly, competitive play in social games. Hopefully, we see more content supporting this in E&A in the future, and perhaps in future Zynga games. (Oh, and now you can rename your empire. Woo hoo?)
[Source and Image Credit: Zynga]
Check out the rest of our Empires & Allies Cheats and Tips right here. -->
Are you enjoying the new competitive juice to Zynga's strategy game? Do you hope this will become a bigger trend in E&A and even future Zynga games?
Zynga has released the brand new Quest Manager to Empires & Allies (E&A). This feature that consolidate all of your outstanding Goals, which I guess are called Quests from here on out (please, make up your mind, guys), and allows players to sort their Quests accordingly.
While that's essentially a convenience update, the developer also released two new leaderboards to the game that cover Honor and Infamy. You know, the red and black hearts you collect for helping and invading friends' empires, respectively? Now, players who collect the most of either resource will place on these two new weekly leaderboards.
Empires Allies Quest Manager
And it looks like you will have more than 12 days each time around to qualify for the three milestone prizes at 250, 750 and 1,000 red hearts as well as 500, 2,500 and 10,000 black hearts. Here are the rewards (for this period, at least):
Honor Dash Milestone Rewards:
250 Hearts:F-35 Lightning II (Air Force Unit)
750 Hearts: Rafale Fighter (Air Force Unit)
1,000 Hearts: Tactical Nuke
Infamy Dash Milestone Rewards:
500 Hearts: Air Strike III
2,500 Hearts: Accuracy III
10,000 Hearts: Tactical Nuke
Empires Allies Leaderboard in action
Better yet, players can choose to help or invade their friends right from the Honor Dash and Infamy Dash leaderboards. It's exciting to see Zynga embrace, albeit slightly, competitive play in social games. Hopefully, we see more content supporting this in E&A in the future, and perhaps in future Zynga games. (Oh, and now you can rename your empire. Woo hoo?)
[Source and Image Credit: Zynga]
Check out the rest of our Empires & Allies Cheats and Tips right here. -->
Are you enjoying the new competitive juice to Zynga's strategy game? Do you hope this will become a bigger trend in E&A and even future Zynga games?
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Beekin looks to make social games that raise $1 million for nonprofits
Social game giants like Zynga and EA raise a good amount of money for disaster relief and other charities during events. But what if that in-game event never ended? That's what former lawyer and entrepreneur Michael Fox hopes to make possible with Beekin, his upcoming New York-based social games project. According to TriplePundit, Fox hopes to raise $1 million for nonprofits in the company's first year.
While no games were announced or detailed, the company hopes to bake an infrastructure for helping nonprofits meet their goals directly into each game. "They're the FarmVille of philanthropy," Beekin founder Micheal Fox told TriplePundit. While TriplePundit says that Fox's goal of $1 million raised for nonprofits within a year is reasonable, citing the $1.3 billion the social games industry made in 2010.
However, there is an issue of exposure. Even with changes to the Ticker and other enhancements to game discovery, it's more difficult than ever to gain traction on Facebook. Well, Fox and Beekin have a plan for that: Every social game created by Beekin will be supported by a four-pillar system: major brand support, celebrity endorsements, nonprofit interest and motivated players that become aware of the social ills each game is trying to correct.
We're not too keen on that last one, but Fox's primary company, Humanitainment, has access to immense celebrity resources. If hip hop icons Kanye West and Common showed their support for the company's New Life Project, then perhaps Fox can rally other celebrities and brands to get behind Beekin. The most daunting challenge facing Beekin is whether it can create social games that can spur players to pay up.
What was your favorite social game (or social game campaign) for social good so far? Do you think these types of social games have potential to make a difference?
While no games were announced or detailed, the company hopes to bake an infrastructure for helping nonprofits meet their goals directly into each game. "They're the FarmVille of philanthropy," Beekin founder Micheal Fox told TriplePundit. While TriplePundit says that Fox's goal of $1 million raised for nonprofits within a year is reasonable, citing the $1.3 billion the social games industry made in 2010.
However, there is an issue of exposure. Even with changes to the Ticker and other enhancements to game discovery, it's more difficult than ever to gain traction on Facebook. Well, Fox and Beekin have a plan for that: Every social game created by Beekin will be supported by a four-pillar system: major brand support, celebrity endorsements, nonprofit interest and motivated players that become aware of the social ills each game is trying to correct.
We're not too keen on that last one, but Fox's primary company, Humanitainment, has access to immense celebrity resources. If hip hop icons Kanye West and Common showed their support for the company's New Life Project, then perhaps Fox can rally other celebrities and brands to get behind Beekin. The most daunting challenge facing Beekin is whether it can create social games that can spur players to pay up.
What was your favorite social game (or social game campaign) for social good so far? Do you think these types of social games have potential to make a difference?
FarmVille can teach engineering skills, too, Missouri professor says
We've heard of Zynga's iconic game teaching valuable lessons in addiction, design and even copyright law, but engineering? That's what Missouri University of Science and Technology professor Ivan G. Guardiola thinks FarmVille is capable of. Guardiola's 28 students enrolled in the Introduction to Operations Research course must play the game for one week. Pretty sweet deal, huh?
"The unique attributes of this game make it ideal for presenting the students with a problem that evolves, aims to define the student's decision-making rationale and allows the student to address conflicting and competing objectives in an environment of continuous change," Guardiola said in a release.
This week-long portion of the course, titled the "FarmVille Challenge," used to eat up a month of the students' semester. Within this week, eager undergraduates compete to see who can come away with the most coins and experience points. Students make plans at the outset based on mathematical models, but those plans can quickly change with shifting game conditions.
"It is up to the player to determine how much land to plow, which seeds to plant, how many seeds to plant, and when to harvest the plants," Guardiola said. "Decisions are completely up to the player. In engineering, we use data to make decisions, but that approach has limitations because situations are constantly changing. So you have to assess your situation continuously and adjust accordingly."
According to Guardiola, a majority of his students agreed that playing FarmVille has improved their critical thinking ability. (Really? Because I thought players log in to turn their minds off for a bit.) However, more than one-third of students considered FarmVille to be too time-consuming. Then again, who ever said college wasn't altogether time-consuming?
Do you think FarmVille could make for an effective teaching tool? Would you enjoy a class that used FarmVille or another Facebook game as part of its curriculum?
"The unique attributes of this game make it ideal for presenting the students with a problem that evolves, aims to define the student's decision-making rationale and allows the student to address conflicting and competing objectives in an environment of continuous change," Guardiola said in a release.
This week-long portion of the course, titled the "FarmVille Challenge," used to eat up a month of the students' semester. Within this week, eager undergraduates compete to see who can come away with the most coins and experience points. Students make plans at the outset based on mathematical models, but those plans can quickly change with shifting game conditions.
"It is up to the player to determine how much land to plow, which seeds to plant, how many seeds to plant, and when to harvest the plants," Guardiola said. "Decisions are completely up to the player. In engineering, we use data to make decisions, but that approach has limitations because situations are constantly changing. So you have to assess your situation continuously and adjust accordingly."
According to Guardiola, a majority of his students agreed that playing FarmVille has improved their critical thinking ability. (Really? Because I thought players log in to turn their minds off for a bit.) However, more than one-third of students considered FarmVille to be too time-consuming. Then again, who ever said college wasn't altogether time-consuming?
Do you think FarmVille could make for an effective teaching tool? Would you enjoy a class that used FarmVille or another Facebook game as part of its curriculum?
Unreal-powered mobile games could go social with Facebook Connect
Soon, it won't just be our tiny, cutesy farms that get all the attention on Facebook. (It'll be our tiny, axe-wielding warriors.) Epic Games has released the next version of its Unreal Development Kit for iOS, and it includes new iOS Facebook Connect features along with various visual enhancements. In other words, beautiful 3D mobile games with looks of Infinity Blade could very well go social in the future.
More specifically, the new Unreal Engine for iOS will support Facebook wall posts, the ability to download friends lists and requests for additional Facebook permissions from a user. Yup, those sound like the classic trappings of a Facebook game, all right. This news marks just another move by Epic Games toward the mobile, social and casual games space.
Just recently, the developer/publisher/engine licensor brought a less visually intense version of the Unreal Engine 3 to Flash. In theory, this could result in Facebook games--most of which are created in Flash--taking on shiny new 3D graphics. Come to think of it, this news marks a shift for the industry in general. When a technology that has become nearly ubiquitous in the traditional games scene recognizes mobile, social and casual, so to will the creators. Are you ready for Facebook frag fests?
[Via GamesIndustry.biz]
Would you play a full 3D game on Facebook? Do you think there's room for more visually impressive experiences on mobile and social platforms?
More specifically, the new Unreal Engine for iOS will support Facebook wall posts, the ability to download friends lists and requests for additional Facebook permissions from a user. Yup, those sound like the classic trappings of a Facebook game, all right. This news marks just another move by Epic Games toward the mobile, social and casual games space.
Just recently, the developer/publisher/engine licensor brought a less visually intense version of the Unreal Engine 3 to Flash. In theory, this could result in Facebook games--most of which are created in Flash--taking on shiny new 3D graphics. Come to think of it, this news marks a shift for the industry in general. When a technology that has become nearly ubiquitous in the traditional games scene recognizes mobile, social and casual, so to will the creators. Are you ready for Facebook frag fests?
[Via GamesIndustry.biz]
Would you play a full 3D game on Facebook? Do you think there's room for more visually impressive experiences on mobile and social platforms?
Mystery Manor to puzzle iPad gamers, Resort World chills on Google+
Instead of excitedly prodding your laptop screen accidentally during that intense session of Mystery Manor, you'll soon be rewarded for that. (But you'll still have a smudgy screen.) Russian developer Game Insight has announced that Mystery Manor is coming to iPad later this month, Inside Social Games reports. Better yet, Resort World is available on Google+ Games, too.
While we'd expect the former to hit Google+ Games, considering the lack of hidden-object games on the platform, but Game Insight VP of Business Development Darya Trushkina told ISG that both Google+ and Android could be in the game's future. Resort World was chosen first for its Google+ Games expansion as a test of sorts. The developer will decide whether it will continue releasing games to Facebook's growing competitor within the next few weeks.
"From what I know, Google choose the games that will be the most complimentary to their platform," Trushkina told ISG. "We just pitched them with Resort World because there is no game like it there yet. It's actually perfect because we can test the social network and see how it actually performs."
Resort World marks the 21st game to launch on Google+ Games, which Trushkina hopes will grow in time. However, Trushkina's words are more revealing about Google's policy on how games arrive on its games platform. The company has been rather picky in which games its allows through Google+. Game Insight also revealed that a new game, Lords of Atlantis, may soon hit Facebook and other social networks.
Are you excited for Mystery Manor to hit the iPad? What do you think of Google+ Games so far?
While we'd expect the former to hit Google+ Games, considering the lack of hidden-object games on the platform, but Game Insight VP of Business Development Darya Trushkina told ISG that both Google+ and Android could be in the game's future. Resort World was chosen first for its Google+ Games expansion as a test of sorts. The developer will decide whether it will continue releasing games to Facebook's growing competitor within the next few weeks.
"From what I know, Google choose the games that will be the most complimentary to their platform," Trushkina told ISG. "We just pitched them with Resort World because there is no game like it there yet. It's actually perfect because we can test the social network and see how it actually performs."
Resort World marks the 21st game to launch on Google+ Games, which Trushkina hopes will grow in time. However, Trushkina's words are more revealing about Google's policy on how games arrive on its games platform. The company has been rather picky in which games its allows through Google+. Game Insight also revealed that a new game, Lords of Atlantis, may soon hit Facebook and other social networks.
Are you excited for Mystery Manor to hit the iPad? What do you think of Google+ Games so far?
PlayStation Home renovations make 'a true social game platform'
The idea of PlayStation Home was always an intriguing one: Rather than simply log into a service, go to a more literal destination to connect with your game friends. While Home has enjoyed 24 million users worldwide, Sony hasn't exactly capitalized on that healthy player base. Since its launch in 2008, the company has listened to feedback, and here we have the new Home, "a true social game platform," Sony says.
Now, wait a minute, we thought social games were reserved for social networks or at least connected to them. Well, consider this Sony ... redefining the term "social network." The new core of PlayStation Home is the aptly-named Hub, which serves as the main place for PS3 gamers to socialize in real time through their avatars.
This Hub also provides players with quests that span a number of new free-to-play games and community events through the Activity Board. The Hub, as its name implies, also connects players to the various districts of Home:
Action District: A gathering place for hardcore gamers, the Action District has a gritty, urban feel reminiscent of a first-person shooter level and provides a direct travel point to action and horror games.
Sportswalk: The Sportswalk has an exciting outside-the-stadium feel with instant major league sports scores, headlines and highlights and sports-themed games.
Adventure District: At the launch of the PlayStation Home redesign, the Adventure District will present the Uncharted 3: Fortune Hunter total game integration event, providing a third-person adventure experience including a partial recreation of the Yemen level from Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception multiplayer mode and a cover-based shooting system complete with weapons and gameplay inspired by the hit series. Players can unlock content that can be used in the Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception Blu-Ray Disc game as well as additional PlayStation Home rewards.
Pier Park: A waterfront boardwalk leads players to carnival, puzzle, outdoor and arcade games. Take a ride on the Pier Park Ferris wheel or visit the arcade for more games.
PlayStation Home Theater: The PlayStation Home Theater features an ultra-modern architectural design and hosts a wide range of videos programmed specifically for PlayStation gamers, including episodes of Pulse and Qore, trailers and interviews from the PlayStation Blog, and exclusive user-generated videos in the popular Community Theater.
PlayStation Home Mall: The PlayStation Home Mall is loaded with thousands of pieces of content from some of the most popular games and entertainment in the world. Shop for PlayStation Home games, extravagant personal spaces, costumes, clothing items and other avatar enhancements, and tons more in the redesigned Mall.
PlayStation Home Cogs
But what sounds most "social" to us are the several new free-to-play games strewn across the new Home. These new games are supported by microtransactions, much like the Facebook games you likely play daily. However, most of these games certainly cater more to the traditional gamer, and here's why:
Bootleggers '29: Set in the seedy underbelly of the Roaring Twenties, this PlayStation Home exclusive first-person shooter found in the Action District pits cops vs. criminals in a Prohibition-era game of Capture the Cask. Boasting real-time multiplayer action, a variety of vintage weapons and unlockable rewards, and the unique ability to play as your PlayStation Home avatar, Bootleggers '29 is a 100% free-to-play game that introduces a classic narrative to the modern shooter genre.
PlayStation Home Hold 'Em: A series of backroom poker tables hosted in the brand new Sportswalk district, PlayStation Home Hold 'Em squares players off in a no-holds-barred, winner-take-all battle of the bluffs. Only the best of the best will progress to the high stakes tables and collect all the prizes in this free version of the wildly-popular Texas Hold 'Em card game.
PlayStation Home Sports Trivia: Test your sports expertise against the PlayStation Home community and unlock a series of themed rewards in this massive sports trivia game, found in the Sportswalk. Packed with over 10,000 trivia questions, this game will challenge the memories of even the most die-hard sports fans.
RC Rally: Build and customize your own remote controlled car and race against friends over multiple courses, performing stunts and tricks and unlocking numerous upgrades along the way. This fast-paced PlayStation Home original game can be found in the new Pier Park.
Cogs: A 3D version of Lazy 8 Studios award-winning Steampunk puzzle game, Cogs can be found front-and-center in PlayStation Home's new Hub. Build a variety of machines from sliding tiles and unlock exclusive PlayStation Home rewards in this highly-addictive puzzler.
PlayStation Home RC Rally
The new focus for Sony's PlayStation Home is the games, according to PlayStation Home director Jack Buser. However, we're still hung up on this whole "social" thing. (And not only with Home, but with that PS Vita, too.) Whether Home will better connect players through its increased focus on games will be seen starting tomorrow. PlayStation Home launches on the PS3 on Nov. 3, but until then, tease yourself with this trailer.
What do you think of the new PlayStation Home? How about Sony's overall focus on social through both of its leading consoles?
Now, wait a minute, we thought social games were reserved for social networks or at least connected to them. Well, consider this Sony ... redefining the term "social network." The new core of PlayStation Home is the aptly-named Hub, which serves as the main place for PS3 gamers to socialize in real time through their avatars.
This Hub also provides players with quests that span a number of new free-to-play games and community events through the Activity Board. The Hub, as its name implies, also connects players to the various districts of Home:
Action District: A gathering place for hardcore gamers, the Action District has a gritty, urban feel reminiscent of a first-person shooter level and provides a direct travel point to action and horror games.
Sportswalk: The Sportswalk has an exciting outside-the-stadium feel with instant major league sports scores, headlines and highlights and sports-themed games.
Adventure District: At the launch of the PlayStation Home redesign, the Adventure District will present the Uncharted 3: Fortune Hunter total game integration event, providing a third-person adventure experience including a partial recreation of the Yemen level from Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception multiplayer mode and a cover-based shooting system complete with weapons and gameplay inspired by the hit series. Players can unlock content that can be used in the Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception Blu-Ray Disc game as well as additional PlayStation Home rewards.
Pier Park: A waterfront boardwalk leads players to carnival, puzzle, outdoor and arcade games. Take a ride on the Pier Park Ferris wheel or visit the arcade for more games.
PlayStation Home Theater: The PlayStation Home Theater features an ultra-modern architectural design and hosts a wide range of videos programmed specifically for PlayStation gamers, including episodes of Pulse and Qore, trailers and interviews from the PlayStation Blog, and exclusive user-generated videos in the popular Community Theater.
PlayStation Home Mall: The PlayStation Home Mall is loaded with thousands of pieces of content from some of the most popular games and entertainment in the world. Shop for PlayStation Home games, extravagant personal spaces, costumes, clothing items and other avatar enhancements, and tons more in the redesigned Mall.
PlayStation Home Cogs
But what sounds most "social" to us are the several new free-to-play games strewn across the new Home. These new games are supported by microtransactions, much like the Facebook games you likely play daily. However, most of these games certainly cater more to the traditional gamer, and here's why:
Bootleggers '29: Set in the seedy underbelly of the Roaring Twenties, this PlayStation Home exclusive first-person shooter found in the Action District pits cops vs. criminals in a Prohibition-era game of Capture the Cask. Boasting real-time multiplayer action, a variety of vintage weapons and unlockable rewards, and the unique ability to play as your PlayStation Home avatar, Bootleggers '29 is a 100% free-to-play game that introduces a classic narrative to the modern shooter genre.
PlayStation Home Hold 'Em: A series of backroom poker tables hosted in the brand new Sportswalk district, PlayStation Home Hold 'Em squares players off in a no-holds-barred, winner-take-all battle of the bluffs. Only the best of the best will progress to the high stakes tables and collect all the prizes in this free version of the wildly-popular Texas Hold 'Em card game.
PlayStation Home Sports Trivia: Test your sports expertise against the PlayStation Home community and unlock a series of themed rewards in this massive sports trivia game, found in the Sportswalk. Packed with over 10,000 trivia questions, this game will challenge the memories of even the most die-hard sports fans.
RC Rally: Build and customize your own remote controlled car and race against friends over multiple courses, performing stunts and tricks and unlocking numerous upgrades along the way. This fast-paced PlayStation Home original game can be found in the new Pier Park.
Cogs: A 3D version of Lazy 8 Studios award-winning Steampunk puzzle game, Cogs can be found front-and-center in PlayStation Home's new Hub. Build a variety of machines from sliding tiles and unlock exclusive PlayStation Home rewards in this highly-addictive puzzler.
PlayStation Home RC Rally
The new focus for Sony's PlayStation Home is the games, according to PlayStation Home director Jack Buser. However, we're still hung up on this whole "social" thing. (And not only with Home, but with that PS Vita, too.) Whether Home will better connect players through its increased focus on games will be seen starting tomorrow. PlayStation Home launches on the PS3 on Nov. 3, but until then, tease yourself with this trailer.
What do you think of the new PlayStation Home? How about Sony's overall focus on social through both of its leading consoles?
Gree vies for global takeover with mobile social game platform in 2012
Yeah, and so is everyone else. Gree announced its plans for a global mobile social game platform that is said to launch in mid-2012. The Japanese mobile social games giant plans to use OpenFeint to bridge the gap between Asian and Western gaming audiences in hopes of reaching 1 billion players. However, the company didn't say much of anything beyond that.
"This new platform allows our partners to focus on increasing engagement and revenue, while continuing to offer the most comprehensive free-to-play gaming experience," Gree International CEO Naoki Aoyagi said in a release. "The new platform will leverage OpenFeint and GREE assets and will bring together Western and Asian mobile social markets with a goal of reaching over one billion users."
Gree plans to release more details on the service this December, but said that its network in Japan grows at a rate of 3.8 new players per second. The company's main competitor is DeNA, the Japanese owner of ngmoco and the Mobage mobile social games network. Mobage is already available in the U.S. and other English-speaking countries on Android. However, both Zynga and EA--the largest social game makers in the nation--both already have a host of mobile games.
Let's not forget that the former has plans for a (somewhat) independent social games network, Project Z. We're almost certain that's going to extend to mobile devices, which would provide Gree and OpenFeint just one more competitor to worry about. We're not sure just what the duo is cooking up, but to come out on top of this healthy competition, it better be huge.
[Image Credit: Gree]
Do you think Gree has a shot at beating the competition in the mobile social games space? Which of the top companies are you most confident in when it comes to mobile games?
"This new platform allows our partners to focus on increasing engagement and revenue, while continuing to offer the most comprehensive free-to-play gaming experience," Gree International CEO Naoki Aoyagi said in a release. "The new platform will leverage OpenFeint and GREE assets and will bring together Western and Asian mobile social markets with a goal of reaching over one billion users."
Gree plans to release more details on the service this December, but said that its network in Japan grows at a rate of 3.8 new players per second. The company's main competitor is DeNA, the Japanese owner of ngmoco and the Mobage mobile social games network. Mobage is already available in the U.S. and other English-speaking countries on Android. However, both Zynga and EA--the largest social game makers in the nation--both already have a host of mobile games.
Let's not forget that the former has plans for a (somewhat) independent social games network, Project Z. We're almost certain that's going to extend to mobile devices, which would provide Gree and OpenFeint just one more competitor to worry about. We're not sure just what the duo is cooking up, but to come out on top of this healthy competition, it better be huge.
[Image Credit: Gree]
Do you think Gree has a shot at beating the competition in the mobile social games space? Which of the top companies are you most confident in when it comes to mobile games?
Ultima's Garriott: Zynga only exists because EA, Blizzard didn't step in
On the streets, we call that "finders keepers." Richard Garriott, creator of classic PC RPG (role-playing game) series Ultima and co-founder of social game maker Portalarium, said that Zynga merely beat the big time game creators to the punch. Speaking to IndustryGamers, Garriott said, "The only reason Zynga exists is because people like EA, people like Blizzard, failed to step in."
Well, we're sure the 200 million player-strong company sees this as a compliment to its industrial skills. Garriott believes that the creator of World of Warcraft--the most successful massively multiplayer game, um, ever--faces a greater threat from "the Zyngas of the world." And while Portalarium has since created casual casino games, Garriott says that its next game, Lord British's New Britannia (working title) will go straight for that audience.
"I think you'll see that the quality level that comes up through the casual games will rival the quality of traditional massively multiplayer games and then, because it's not something you have to subscribe to, because it's something that virally spreads, and especially because, as people churn out of a big MMO they've got to go somewhere," Garriott told IndustryGamers.
While that may turn out to be true, we've seen RPGs that target the core gamer flop again and again on Facebook. (Unless you're Kabam or Kixeye.) Garriott told IndustryGamers that he sees Blizzard as direct competition, which we imagine means he sees Zynga and EA in the same light. That said, it'll be interesting to see how Portalarium's first major game attracts an audience at such a scale.
[Via Massively]
Do you think the creator of WoW has anything to worry about from companies like Portalarium? Will Facebook games pose a greater threat to traditional game makers than other core game creators?
Well, we're sure the 200 million player-strong company sees this as a compliment to its industrial skills. Garriott believes that the creator of World of Warcraft--the most successful massively multiplayer game, um, ever--faces a greater threat from "the Zyngas of the world." And while Portalarium has since created casual casino games, Garriott says that its next game, Lord British's New Britannia (working title) will go straight for that audience.
"I think you'll see that the quality level that comes up through the casual games will rival the quality of traditional massively multiplayer games and then, because it's not something you have to subscribe to, because it's something that virally spreads, and especially because, as people churn out of a big MMO they've got to go somewhere," Garriott told IndustryGamers.
While that may turn out to be true, we've seen RPGs that target the core gamer flop again and again on Facebook. (Unless you're Kabam or Kixeye.) Garriott told IndustryGamers that he sees Blizzard as direct competition, which we imagine means he sees Zynga and EA in the same light. That said, it'll be interesting to see how Portalarium's first major game attracts an audience at such a scale.
[Via Massively]
Do you think the creator of WoW has anything to worry about from companies like Portalarium? Will Facebook games pose a greater threat to traditional game makers than other core game creators?
Monday, December 12, 2011
FarmVille: Coin Tree and Giant Coin Tree now available in the store
While you may already have a collection of Giant Coin Trees on your farm(s) in FarmVille, if you're like me, you were probably fairly disappointed in the "giant" size of that particular tree. Well, be disappointed no longer friends, as Zynga has finally fixed the size discrepancy with these trees, making them truly giant (at least when compared to other giant trees in the game), and has even released them for purchase in the store.
Not only that, but we see the Level 1 tree of this pairing - the regular Coin Tree - also available to buy in the game's marketplace. The pair goes for 5 and 10 Farm Cash each, which is exciting for those that were tried of the 7/8-14 Farm Cash prices we've seen take over the store in the past few months. Again, this Giant Coin Tree is the same one you likely already have on your land to begin with, and you don't have to do anything special (or purchase any additional Giant Coin Trees) to automatically convert all of your existing trees to the new "Giant" size.
For a look at the two different trees, you can check out our picture at right. Keep in mind that the Giant Coin Tree used to look like the version on the left, which is now just the standard Coin Tree. The larger tree on the right is the Giant Coin Tree as it functions today in the game, the way it should have been all along.
If you don't happen to have one of these Giant Coin Trees on your farm, or you just wish to purchase the smaller version to go along with it, make sure to do it fast as they'll only be available for five more days.
Will you purchase either of these Coin Trees from the store? Did you notice that your Giant Coin Trees had grown in size automatically over the past few days?
Not only that, but we see the Level 1 tree of this pairing - the regular Coin Tree - also available to buy in the game's marketplace. The pair goes for 5 and 10 Farm Cash each, which is exciting for those that were tried of the 7/8-14 Farm Cash prices we've seen take over the store in the past few months. Again, this Giant Coin Tree is the same one you likely already have on your land to begin with, and you don't have to do anything special (or purchase any additional Giant Coin Trees) to automatically convert all of your existing trees to the new "Giant" size.
For a look at the two different trees, you can check out our picture at right. Keep in mind that the Giant Coin Tree used to look like the version on the left, which is now just the standard Coin Tree. The larger tree on the right is the Giant Coin Tree as it functions today in the game, the way it should have been all along.
If you don't happen to have one of these Giant Coin Trees on your farm, or you just wish to purchase the smaller version to go along with it, make sure to do it fast as they'll only be available for five more days.
Will you purchase either of these Coin Trees from the store? Did you notice that your Giant Coin Trees had grown in size automatically over the past few days?
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Giant Jack-O'-Lantern collection event coming for Halloween?
My, my is Zynga ever predictable. It looks like a third Jack-O'-Lantern collection event will be coming to FarmVille to celebrate Halloween this year, asking users to collect pieces of candy or other themed items (called "Treats") in order to trade them in for collectible items inside a new "Giant Jack-O'-Lantern."
If the menu below is anything to go by, then FarmVilleFreak has discovered that the menu will allow us to not only collect Treats to fill a meter (as we're used to), but we might also be able to purchase the prizes themselves directly from the menu, if asking for Treats is too time-consuming for your liking (this could also just be a link to purchase Treats in bulk). Either way, keep in mind that some of the text in this window is a placeholder, as we'll of course be able to redeem our Treats for themed items, and not just six different "Purple Valentine Cows." Still, this gives us something to look forward to in the long run, as we know we'll be able to interact with friends to earn as many Treats possible within the few weeks that will likely be available to do so.
As for the Treats themselves, it looks like we'll be able to collect Candy Corn, wrapped pieces of Candy and perhaps even small Jack-O'-Lanterns to fill our Giant Jack-O'-Lantern to the brim. It would be great to see a return of the Haunted House as well, giving us free Candy daily, but a new item released for the same purpose also wouldn't be an entirely bad thing.
We'll make sure to keep an eye on all of the Halloween festivities in FarmVille, and will make sure you're the first to know when this Giant Jack-O'-Lantern (or Halloween collection event in general) kicks off in the game.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
Check out the rest of our Halloween coverage right here.
Are you looking forward to collecting pieces of candy to earn more prizes in FarmVille this Halloween?
If the menu below is anything to go by, then FarmVilleFreak has discovered that the menu will allow us to not only collect Treats to fill a meter (as we're used to), but we might also be able to purchase the prizes themselves directly from the menu, if asking for Treats is too time-consuming for your liking (this could also just be a link to purchase Treats in bulk). Either way, keep in mind that some of the text in this window is a placeholder, as we'll of course be able to redeem our Treats for themed items, and not just six different "Purple Valentine Cows." Still, this gives us something to look forward to in the long run, as we know we'll be able to interact with friends to earn as many Treats possible within the few weeks that will likely be available to do so.
As for the Treats themselves, it looks like we'll be able to collect Candy Corn, wrapped pieces of Candy and perhaps even small Jack-O'-Lanterns to fill our Giant Jack-O'-Lantern to the brim. It would be great to see a return of the Haunted House as well, giving us free Candy daily, but a new item released for the same purpose also wouldn't be an entirely bad thing.
We'll make sure to keep an eye on all of the Halloween festivities in FarmVille, and will make sure you're the first to know when this Giant Jack-O'-Lantern (or Halloween collection event in general) kicks off in the game.
[Image Credit: FarmVille Freak]
Check out the rest of our Halloween coverage right here.
Are you looking forward to collecting pieces of candy to earn more prizes in FarmVille this Halloween?
Pioneer Trail Ghost Town feature coming soon [Video]
Way back in January, Pioneer Trail players (then FrontierVille) were able to take a survey detailing potential new themes for the game. One of those themes just so happened to be "Ghost Town." While it may now be October, it looks like that theme is finally coming around, and will likely comprise the greatest portion of the game's Halloween event this month. While we haven't received much official news in text, Zynga has released a preview trailer for this Ghost Town theme, which it's calling a "Mega-Feature!"
The trailer [embedded below] shows us that the Ghost Town will be more than just an item theme in the game's store; it will apparently be a location we can visit and complete tasks in. The story of Ghost Town sees the evil Mayor Witherwood placing a curse on the town, which has apparently resulted in some... unusual animals and crops being developed. There looks to be some sort of zombie corn with glowing pink eyes, a broken clock tower, Frankenstein's Monster trees, tombstones a plenty (including what looks to be an Indian Burial Ground and ghost frogs) and even floating, zombie / ghost chickens!
We're told that we'll use "your Sharpshooter, Mad Scientist and Shaman" in tasks that resemble those out on the Pioneer Trail map proper. If I'm making an educated guess, it's likely that these positions will be filled by friends, with your Sharpshooter being able to go out and hunt undead bears and other monsters to earn Hides, the mad scientist can "tackle" man-eating plants for Potions, and the Shaman will seek out ghosts and bless them for Spirits. Your own character can also complete tasks, rewarding you with Charms (from rocks, shrubs and buildings). You'll be able to use the hides, potions and spirits to help the locals in Ghost Town, with the ultimate goal being to earn enough keys to open the Mayor's Mansion and bring him to justice.
As for the Charms, you'll use those to earn special, exclusive prizes like decorations along the way. The more Charms you collect, the more prizes you'll apparently wind up with, giving you incentive to play around in Ghost Town for days and even weeks after the feature launches. Unfortunately, we just don't know when that will be.
Either way, we'll make sure to keep track of all things Ghost Town in the Pioneer Trail, and will let you know when you can embark on this spooky adventure in your own game, so keep checking back!
Check out the rest of our Halloween coverage right here.
Are you excited to travel to Ghost Town in Pioneer Trail? What sorts of prizes are you hoping to earn along the way?
The trailer [embedded below] shows us that the Ghost Town will be more than just an item theme in the game's store; it will apparently be a location we can visit and complete tasks in. The story of Ghost Town sees the evil Mayor Witherwood placing a curse on the town, which has apparently resulted in some... unusual animals and crops being developed. There looks to be some sort of zombie corn with glowing pink eyes, a broken clock tower, Frankenstein's Monster trees, tombstones a plenty (including what looks to be an Indian Burial Ground and ghost frogs) and even floating, zombie / ghost chickens!
We're told that we'll use "your Sharpshooter, Mad Scientist and Shaman" in tasks that resemble those out on the Pioneer Trail map proper. If I'm making an educated guess, it's likely that these positions will be filled by friends, with your Sharpshooter being able to go out and hunt undead bears and other monsters to earn Hides, the mad scientist can "tackle" man-eating plants for Potions, and the Shaman will seek out ghosts and bless them for Spirits. Your own character can also complete tasks, rewarding you with Charms (from rocks, shrubs and buildings). You'll be able to use the hides, potions and spirits to help the locals in Ghost Town, with the ultimate goal being to earn enough keys to open the Mayor's Mansion and bring him to justice.
As for the Charms, you'll use those to earn special, exclusive prizes like decorations along the way. The more Charms you collect, the more prizes you'll apparently wind up with, giving you incentive to play around in Ghost Town for days and even weeks after the feature launches. Unfortunately, we just don't know when that will be.
Either way, we'll make sure to keep track of all things Ghost Town in the Pioneer Trail, and will let you know when you can embark on this spooky adventure in your own game, so keep checking back!
Check out the rest of our Halloween coverage right here.
Are you excited to travel to Ghost Town in Pioneer Trail? What sorts of prizes are you hoping to earn along the way?
Adventure World Danger Mine Expedition: Everything you need to know
After completing the three Indiana Jones-themed Expeditions in Adventure World, you'll have a chance to get back on track with the main game. The next Expedition on our list is Danger Mine, which asks you to recover a set of TNT crates before they can explode. This particular Expedition requires 1000 Supplies and five each of Fuel, Food and Water to begin, and you only have a single day to accomplish all of the quests therein. Here's a guide to help you out.
Crates of Boom
Get the First Crate of TNT
Get the Second Crate of TNT
Get the Third Crate of TNT
The crates are all sitting next to numbered rocks, so you know the order to go after them in. However, picking them up in the wrong order would be incredibly difficult, as this is one Expedition that has you navigating between open areas using mine carts. As you're underground and in a mine, after all, you'll only be able to walk long distances by pushing a mine cart in front of you. This wastes a lot of energy, but eventually you'll end up at an open area containing the TNT and other goodies that can be collected / cleared for extra energy or XP. Note that there are plenty of other TNT crates around the map, but only the ones standing next to numbered rocks really count.
Mush Rooms
Clear 15 Mushroom Colonies
Blocking your path(s) here in Danger Mine are Mushroom Colonies, along with spider webs and other traditional debris. These Mushroom Colonies are important, because apparently one of your adventure teammates wants mushroom soup tonight (leave it to you to be the errand boy/girl). You'll clear out Mushroom Colonies with your machete, so just clear out every colony you see to be sure.
Back on Track
Collect 5 Track Fragments
Repair 5 Broken Tracks
The Track Fragments are found scattered around the map, and a simple click on them will collect them. You'll be able to pick them out amongst the rest of the tracks as they tend to face the opposite direction and look like the picture below. Also highlighted there are the broken track areas that need to be repaired.
All in all, this particular Expedition is fairly straight-forward, and so long as you're diligent about coming back and playing more than once per day, you should have no problem completing the entirety of it within the one day time limit. Remember, you can also bring up to five friends in on this Expedition with you, for 15 free energy, making any spiders you encounter not such a great threat to your energy bar after all. Keep checking back with us as we'll bring you more coverage of all of the Expeditions in Adventure World!
Check out the rest of our Adventure World Cheats & Tips right here.
What do you think of this Danger Mine Expedition? Did you find it to be one of the easiest we've seen so far, or do the spiders over-complicate things?
Crates of Boom
Get the First Crate of TNT
Get the Second Crate of TNT
Get the Third Crate of TNT
The crates are all sitting next to numbered rocks, so you know the order to go after them in. However, picking them up in the wrong order would be incredibly difficult, as this is one Expedition that has you navigating between open areas using mine carts. As you're underground and in a mine, after all, you'll only be able to walk long distances by pushing a mine cart in front of you. This wastes a lot of energy, but eventually you'll end up at an open area containing the TNT and other goodies that can be collected / cleared for extra energy or XP. Note that there are plenty of other TNT crates around the map, but only the ones standing next to numbered rocks really count.
Mush Rooms
Clear 15 Mushroom Colonies
Blocking your path(s) here in Danger Mine are Mushroom Colonies, along with spider webs and other traditional debris. These Mushroom Colonies are important, because apparently one of your adventure teammates wants mushroom soup tonight (leave it to you to be the errand boy/girl). You'll clear out Mushroom Colonies with your machete, so just clear out every colony you see to be sure.
Back on Track
Collect 5 Track Fragments
Repair 5 Broken Tracks
The Track Fragments are found scattered around the map, and a simple click on them will collect them. You'll be able to pick them out amongst the rest of the tracks as they tend to face the opposite direction and look like the picture below. Also highlighted there are the broken track areas that need to be repaired.
All in all, this particular Expedition is fairly straight-forward, and so long as you're diligent about coming back and playing more than once per day, you should have no problem completing the entirety of it within the one day time limit. Remember, you can also bring up to five friends in on this Expedition with you, for 15 free energy, making any spiders you encounter not such a great threat to your energy bar after all. Keep checking back with us as we'll bring you more coverage of all of the Expeditions in Adventure World!
Check out the rest of our Adventure World Cheats & Tips right here.
What do you think of this Danger Mine Expedition? Did you find it to be one of the easiest we've seen so far, or do the spiders over-complicate things?
The Sims Social: Grab your free Plumbob Hoodies while you still can!
While we knew that the Sims Social would be celebrating fans this week with a series of freebies (including Simoleons, collectibles and the like), here's a gift that tops them all - a free Plumbob Hoodie for both girl and boy Sims! For those that don't know, the Plumbob is the name of the Gem that appears over each Sims' head, and lets the owner know of their status based on its color. This particular Hoodie displays a bright green Plumbob, and it's yours for the taking, but only for a limited time.
To be clear, there are two links available to claim this Hoodie, and therefore two Hoodies available for all users: one for male Sims and one for female Sims. Even if you are fairly certain you'll never change the gender of your Sim, why not grab both? They're both absolutely free, after all. Here are the links to claim both (found on the game's Facebook fan page):
Female Sim Plumbob Hoodie
Male Sim Plumbob Hoodie
While you're on the game's fan page, make sure to grab the extra Simoleons and Hope items that are also being given away. Now's a great time to be a fan of the game, with daily giveaways like these, but we'll make sure to let you know when the more noteworthy prizes come along if you don't want to fan the page yourself.
What do you think of these Sims Plumbob Hoodies? Did you claim both, or just the one for your Sim's current gender?
To be clear, there are two links available to claim this Hoodie, and therefore two Hoodies available for all users: one for male Sims and one for female Sims. Even if you are fairly certain you'll never change the gender of your Sim, why not grab both? They're both absolutely free, after all. Here are the links to claim both (found on the game's Facebook fan page):
Female Sim Plumbob Hoodie
Male Sim Plumbob Hoodie
While you're on the game's fan page, make sure to grab the extra Simoleons and Hope items that are also being given away. Now's a great time to be a fan of the game, with daily giveaways like these, but we'll make sure to let you know when the more noteworthy prizes come along if you don't want to fan the page yourself.
What do you think of these Sims Plumbob Hoodies? Did you claim both, or just the one for your Sim's current gender?
FarmVille Halloween Items: Nightmare Unicorn, Fire Peach Tree and more
With tonight's FarmVille update, we see a slew of new items launch in the current limited edition Halloween item theme. If you've yet to pull your Halloween items out of storage, now's the time, as you've got plenty of items to further flesh out your spooky graveyard or ghost town on your farm(s). As usual, we're here to give you a complete rundown of the items available this evening, so let's get started!
Trees
Fire Peach Tree - 8 Farm Cash
Giant Fire Peach Tree - 14 Farm Cash
Jack O Lantern Tree - 8 Farm Cash
Giant Jack O Lantern Tree - 14 Farm Cash
For tree collectors, tonight's update is a big one as it sees the release of four new trees, along with four corresponding mastery signs. As you'd expect, the two Peach Trees are a pair, with the giant version being available for free via Mystery Seedlings. Likewise, the Giant Jack O Lantern Tree is available as a Mystery Seedling as well, so feel free to skip purchasing it and only invest in the Jack O Lantern Tree. As for mastery, all of these trees come with the same stats, and will be mastered after 75, 150 and 225 harvests each.
Animals
Nightmare (Pony) - 26 Farm Cash
Nightmare Unicorn - 30 Farm Cash
Nightmare Sheep - 20 Farm Cash
Nightmare Cow - 24 Farm Cash
All of these animals have one thing in common, other than having "Nightmare" in their names: they are all a dark brown/black animal with some kind of flames for "hair." In the case of the Nightmare Unicorn, the flames are an awesome bright blue color, while the other three animals have orange flames. Keep in mind, farmers, that the Nightmare Pony (officially called just the "Nightmare") was originally released in last year's Halloween theme, and then again in the Birthday event last June. Make sure you don't already have one in your collection before spending anymore Farm Cash on the animal.
Buildings
Ghost Inn - 30 Farm Cash
Yet again, we're seeing a fairly awesome Halloween building being released for Farm Cash (unfortunately). This one is a few shades of purple and has glowing windows. Perhaps I'm just partial (my favorite color is purple, after all), but this one is definitely temping my wallet.
Decorations
Raven - 18 Farm Cash
Trick or Treat - 15 Farm Cash
Misty Waterfall - 18 Farm Cash
Skeleton Flamingo - 30,000 coins
Black Rose Planter - 8,000 coins
Dreadful Fence - 5,000 coins
If you already own a few of the Black Rose items from previous themes, know that this one is a different item that you can add to your collection. As for the Dreadful Fence, this is a re-released item that would make the perfect accompaniment to any Graveyard area you have setup on your farm with previously released tombstones.
Avatar Costumes
Ugly Duckling - 50 Farm Cash
Duck - 45 Farm Cash
Black Sheep - 40 Farm Cash
Sheep - 45 Farm Cash
Pink Cow - 35 Farm Cash
Unfortunately, if you want your avatar to be dressed up as any of the most basic animals from FarmVille, you're going to have to shell out a ton of Farm Cash to do so. Hopefully, we'll see additional costumes released in the future - even if they're re-released ones - that are a bit cheaper.
As usual, these new items come with a two week time limit, giving you plenty of time to purchase Farm Cash if you need to, and enough time to pull out your other Halloween items to see just which of these new items go best with those already in your collection. Just remember to go shopping sooner, rather than later, so you don't forget about these new items entirely (trust me, I've been guilty of that more than once).
Check out the rest of our Halloween coverage right here.
What do you think of these new FarmVille Halloween items? Have you already decided which costume to dress your avatar up in this year?
Trees
Fire Peach Tree - 8 Farm Cash
Giant Fire Peach Tree - 14 Farm Cash
Jack O Lantern Tree - 8 Farm Cash
Giant Jack O Lantern Tree - 14 Farm Cash
For tree collectors, tonight's update is a big one as it sees the release of four new trees, along with four corresponding mastery signs. As you'd expect, the two Peach Trees are a pair, with the giant version being available for free via Mystery Seedlings. Likewise, the Giant Jack O Lantern Tree is available as a Mystery Seedling as well, so feel free to skip purchasing it and only invest in the Jack O Lantern Tree. As for mastery, all of these trees come with the same stats, and will be mastered after 75, 150 and 225 harvests each.
Animals
Nightmare (Pony) - 26 Farm Cash
Nightmare Unicorn - 30 Farm Cash
Nightmare Sheep - 20 Farm Cash
Nightmare Cow - 24 Farm Cash
All of these animals have one thing in common, other than having "Nightmare" in their names: they are all a dark brown/black animal with some kind of flames for "hair." In the case of the Nightmare Unicorn, the flames are an awesome bright blue color, while the other three animals have orange flames. Keep in mind, farmers, that the Nightmare Pony (officially called just the "Nightmare") was originally released in last year's Halloween theme, and then again in the Birthday event last June. Make sure you don't already have one in your collection before spending anymore Farm Cash on the animal.
Buildings
Ghost Inn - 30 Farm Cash
Yet again, we're seeing a fairly awesome Halloween building being released for Farm Cash (unfortunately). This one is a few shades of purple and has glowing windows. Perhaps I'm just partial (my favorite color is purple, after all), but this one is definitely temping my wallet.
Decorations
Raven - 18 Farm Cash
Trick or Treat - 15 Farm Cash
Misty Waterfall - 18 Farm Cash
Skeleton Flamingo - 30,000 coins
Black Rose Planter - 8,000 coins
Dreadful Fence - 5,000 coins
If you already own a few of the Black Rose items from previous themes, know that this one is a different item that you can add to your collection. As for the Dreadful Fence, this is a re-released item that would make the perfect accompaniment to any Graveyard area you have setup on your farm with previously released tombstones.
Avatar Costumes
Ugly Duckling - 50 Farm Cash
Duck - 45 Farm Cash
Black Sheep - 40 Farm Cash
Sheep - 45 Farm Cash
Pink Cow - 35 Farm Cash
Unfortunately, if you want your avatar to be dressed up as any of the most basic animals from FarmVille, you're going to have to shell out a ton of Farm Cash to do so. Hopefully, we'll see additional costumes released in the future - even if they're re-released ones - that are a bit cheaper.
As usual, these new items come with a two week time limit, giving you plenty of time to purchase Farm Cash if you need to, and enough time to pull out your other Halloween items to see just which of these new items go best with those already in your collection. Just remember to go shopping sooner, rather than later, so you don't forget about these new items entirely (trust me, I've been guilty of that more than once).
Check out the rest of our Halloween coverage right here.
What do you think of these new FarmVille Halloween items? Have you already decided which costume to dress your avatar up in this year?
FarmVille Raffle Booth (10/02/11): Royal Steed and Flower Bridge up for grabs
The FarmVille Raffle Booth has been updated this evening with two new items, along with three which have clearly become the standard "filler" prizes for the feature. One of these new items was free in a previous release, while the other would have set you back quite a few Farm Cash. Here's a complete list of this week's prizes, along with your odds of winning them.
10 Special Delivery Boxes - 1:5
3 Farmhands - 1:20
5 Love Potions - 1:50
Flower Bridge - 1:200
Royal Steed - 1:500
All told, the 1:500 odds for the Royal Steed (horse) aren't the worst we've seen, but then again, this item isn't as limited as other top prizes either. It was originally given away for free to users that collected enough guests in the Royal Wedding event. Meanwhile, the Flower Bridge has even better odds, but is arguably more valuable. It was released back in July of last year in the New England event, but it cost a whopping 42 Farm Cash to purchase at the time. I don't know about you, but I'm hoping my tickets earn me that item, rather than another Royal Steed.
Either way, remember that while you can purchase additional Raffle Tickets for Farm Cash, the rest can be earned for free from friends. Just remember to ask for as many as you can between now and next Sunday, when the drawing will take place. Good luck!
Which of these prizes are you hoping to win in this week's Raffle Booth?
10 Special Delivery Boxes - 1:5
3 Farmhands - 1:20
5 Love Potions - 1:50
Flower Bridge - 1:200
Royal Steed - 1:500
All told, the 1:500 odds for the Royal Steed (horse) aren't the worst we've seen, but then again, this item isn't as limited as other top prizes either. It was originally given away for free to users that collected enough guests in the Royal Wedding event. Meanwhile, the Flower Bridge has even better odds, but is arguably more valuable. It was released back in July of last year in the New England event, but it cost a whopping 42 Farm Cash to purchase at the time. I don't know about you, but I'm hoping my tickets earn me that item, rather than another Royal Steed.
Either way, remember that while you can purchase additional Raffle Tickets for Farm Cash, the rest can be earned for free from friends. Just remember to ask for as many as you can between now and next Sunday, when the drawing will take place. Good luck!
Which of these prizes are you hoping to win in this week's Raffle Booth?
FarmVille Mystery Game (10/02/11): Horse theme leads to a free Halloween Tower
If you're a FarmVille Horse collector that still hasn't had your fill of adding Horses to your collection with the release of Mystery Boxes and return of plenty of past Horses to the store, why not take a look at this week's Mystery Game? That's right, this week's theme is primarily Horses, while this week's bonus prize is a bit... odd.
First things first, this week's game costs 20 Farm Cash to play per dart. While you don't have a guarantee of receiving a different animal with every dart you throw, if you do win, you'll walk away with one of the following:
Black Arabian
Brumby Horse
Peruvian Horse
Tennessee Horse
Trakehner Horse
Trotter Stallion
If you win all six (again, this might not happen on your first six darts, and can turn into a very expensive prospect depending on your luck), you'll walk away with a bonus prize, this time in the new Halloween limited edition item theme. The item specifically is the Halloween Tower, as seen at right in TritonHelper's picture from the FarmVille forums.
Interestingly, it looks like these Horses are scaled down a bit, as looking at the Foal in the background shows that they aren't as big as other Horses you may already have in your collection. Not that this is the first time animals have been oddly scaled in the game, but I digress.
Whether you're going for the full set, or just one or two of these Horses, make sure to throw those darts within the next week, while they're still available. Good luck!
Check out the rest of our Halloween coverage right here.
Will you play this week's Mystery Game? Which Horses did you want to win? Which ones did you actually end up with?
First things first, this week's game costs 20 Farm Cash to play per dart. While you don't have a guarantee of receiving a different animal with every dart you throw, if you do win, you'll walk away with one of the following:
Black Arabian
Brumby Horse
Peruvian Horse
Tennessee Horse
Trakehner Horse
Trotter Stallion
If you win all six (again, this might not happen on your first six darts, and can turn into a very expensive prospect depending on your luck), you'll walk away with a bonus prize, this time in the new Halloween limited edition item theme. The item specifically is the Halloween Tower, as seen at right in TritonHelper's picture from the FarmVille forums.
Interestingly, it looks like these Horses are scaled down a bit, as looking at the Foal in the background shows that they aren't as big as other Horses you may already have in your collection. Not that this is the first time animals have been oddly scaled in the game, but I digress.
Whether you're going for the full set, or just one or two of these Horses, make sure to throw those darts within the next week, while they're still available. Good luck!
Check out the rest of our Halloween coverage right here.
Will you play this week's Mystery Game? Which Horses did you want to win? Which ones did you actually end up with?
FarmVille Gamestop promotion offers rewards with Game Card purchase
Zynga has launched a new cross-promotional event in FarmVille this evening, teaming the game up with video game retailer GameStop to offer "exclusive mystery goods" to users that purchase and redeem Zynga Game Cards from GameStop. That is, in addition to simply earning the appropriate amount of Farm Cash based on the card value you redeemed (whether that be $10, $25 or $50), you'll also receive a free gift.
So far, it looks like you'll receive one of four items all wrapped up in a red and white box. All of these items are themed for Halloween, with three being re-releases. Specifically, there's a Wizard Gnome and Spooky Bush from last year's Halloween theme, while a Plant Monster from both Halloween 2009 and 2010 is also available. In terms of new goodies, you have a chance to earn the Candy Corn Chicken, although the loading screen above doesn't detail whether or not we'll be able to choose our prize, or if we'll just need to get lucky. For someone that already has the three previously released items, that's definitely something to keep in mind. On the other hand, there's also the slight possibility that a single card will guarantee you all four items, but again, that wasn't detailed either.
We'll be able to learn more about this promotion by visiting GameStop's website, but as of this writing, the promotion link doesn't work (it instead redirects to GameStop's downloads page). We'll make sure to keep checking on things and will let you know when the link goes live, along with exactly what you'll find there (hopefully answers to our questions). Either way, we do know one thing: this promotion will end November 6.
Update: We now know the specific details of this feature, as Gamestop's page is now live. Depending on the dollar amount you spend on a Zynga Game Card, you'll be eligible for different amounts of items. For $10, you'll receive one mystery item. For $25 you'll receive three and for $50 you'll receive six. However, as there are only four listed items, it looks like if you purchase a $50 card for FarmVille, you'll receive two mystery boxes (containing truly mystery items) along with the four listed above.
Check out the rest of our Halloween coverage right here.
Will you purchase a Zynga Game Card for a chance at these Halloween-themed items in FarmVille?
So far, it looks like you'll receive one of four items all wrapped up in a red and white box. All of these items are themed for Halloween, with three being re-releases. Specifically, there's a Wizard Gnome and Spooky Bush from last year's Halloween theme, while a Plant Monster from both Halloween 2009 and 2010 is also available. In terms of new goodies, you have a chance to earn the Candy Corn Chicken, although the loading screen above doesn't detail whether or not we'll be able to choose our prize, or if we'll just need to get lucky. For someone that already has the three previously released items, that's definitely something to keep in mind. On the other hand, there's also the slight possibility that a single card will guarantee you all four items, but again, that wasn't detailed either.
We'll be able to learn more about this promotion by visiting GameStop's website, but as of this writing, the promotion link doesn't work (it instead redirects to GameStop's downloads page). We'll make sure to keep checking on things and will let you know when the link goes live, along with exactly what you'll find there (hopefully answers to our questions). Either way, we do know one thing: this promotion will end November 6.
Update: We now know the specific details of this feature, as Gamestop's page is now live. Depending on the dollar amount you spend on a Zynga Game Card, you'll be eligible for different amounts of items. For $10, you'll receive one mystery item. For $25 you'll receive three and for $50 you'll receive six. However, as there are only four listed items, it looks like if you purchase a $50 card for FarmVille, you'll receive two mystery boxes (containing truly mystery items) along with the four listed above.
Check out the rest of our Halloween coverage right here.
Will you purchase a Zynga Game Card for a chance at these Halloween-themed items in FarmVille?
Is there more to PS Vita's 'Near' social feature than we thought?
Catchphrases like "Social Gaming Revolution," have clouded what the device actually accomplishes with its social features somewhat. But now Sony has unveiled more than just cursory glances, and has detailed the PS Vita's Near feature in full.
Sure, we already knew that Near would allow players to gift one another based on location, but, according to the PlayStation Blog, it goes deeper than that. When PS Vita players press the "Update" button, it will send a ping in an outward radius to other potential Vita players with current, location-based information about you. From there, players can challenge those around them to competitive games or join forces in a co-op romp.
Of course, this is all assuming the games support said features, which we're sure at least some will. But how Sony is going to get you hooked on playing in public more often is the fact that players may have to share through Near in order unlock new content. Want that new multiplayer map for your Vita shooter of choice? Better head to the nearest library or airport to get it. You'll also be able to compare player stats like trophies through Near.
Wait a tick--that sounds a lot like how FarmVille players compare farms or Mastery achievements. Regardless of whether you're on board with Sony's PlayStation Vita handheld gaming console, it's undeniable that the device is a response to the social and mobile gaming scenes. We'll whether that response is strong enough in 2012.
[Via Kotaku]
What do you think of the PS Vita's social features? Do you think they're robust or slick enough to compete with what Facebook or mobile games are capable of already?
Sure, we already knew that Near would allow players to gift one another based on location, but, according to the PlayStation Blog, it goes deeper than that. When PS Vita players press the "Update" button, it will send a ping in an outward radius to other potential Vita players with current, location-based information about you. From there, players can challenge those around them to competitive games or join forces in a co-op romp.
Of course, this is all assuming the games support said features, which we're sure at least some will. But how Sony is going to get you hooked on playing in public more often is the fact that players may have to share through Near in order unlock new content. Want that new multiplayer map for your Vita shooter of choice? Better head to the nearest library or airport to get it. You'll also be able to compare player stats like trophies through Near.
Wait a tick--that sounds a lot like how FarmVille players compare farms or Mastery achievements. Regardless of whether you're on board with Sony's PlayStation Vita handheld gaming console, it's undeniable that the device is a response to the social and mobile gaming scenes. We'll whether that response is strong enough in 2012.
[Via Kotaku]
What do you think of the PS Vita's social features? Do you think they're robust or slick enough to compete with what Facebook or mobile games are capable of already?
Lunchtime Poll: Your thoughts on Pioneer Trail's Fort Courage finale?
Now that Zynga has finally released the Pioneer Trail finale to everyone with Fort Courage, it seems that many players are less than enthused about the release. While it appears that the developer made the area into a permanent zone on the World Map, pioneers everywhere sound bummed with, frankly, the lack of content available.
For one, capturing the Gratchet Gang in Fort Courage is nothing more than approaching the trio and clicking on them to receive a pop-up window and cute illustration. And once players arrive to the actual fort, they're simply given the opportunity to purchase items with Trail Points and start all over again from Beaver Valley with the opportunity for more rewards.
Pioneer Trail player free1indeed seems to capture the general sentiment of this 54-page forum thread: "Yeah, it's out and what a disappointment it is! All the hype and all you can do it collect from and talk to soldiers and water prickly cactus ... wow ... What a disappointment." Though, players like NiniD come to Zynga's defense regarding Fort Courage early on.
Forum moderator MizzFaith reminds players that more may be on the way for Fort Courage to hopefully make up for the lack of content. However, I wouldn't expect those updates to come until after this shiny new Ghost Town feature is released. But we want to know what you think of Fort Courage right now, so ...
What do you think of Fort Courage?
It serves its purpose quite nicely.What a bummer!Bummed, but excited for future updates!I haven't made it to Fort Courage yet.
VoteView ResultsShare ThisPolldaddy.com
Have something unique to add to this discussion? Have any particular ideas for enhancing Fort Courage?
For one, capturing the Gratchet Gang in Fort Courage is nothing more than approaching the trio and clicking on them to receive a pop-up window and cute illustration. And once players arrive to the actual fort, they're simply given the opportunity to purchase items with Trail Points and start all over again from Beaver Valley with the opportunity for more rewards.
Pioneer Trail player free1indeed seems to capture the general sentiment of this 54-page forum thread: "Yeah, it's out and what a disappointment it is! All the hype and all you can do it collect from and talk to soldiers and water prickly cactus ... wow ... What a disappointment." Though, players like NiniD come to Zynga's defense regarding Fort Courage early on.
Forum moderator MizzFaith reminds players that more may be on the way for Fort Courage to hopefully make up for the lack of content. However, I wouldn't expect those updates to come until after this shiny new Ghost Town feature is released. But we want to know what you think of Fort Courage right now, so ...
What do you think of Fort Courage?
It serves its purpose quite nicely.What a bummer!Bummed, but excited for future updates!I haven't made it to Fort Courage yet.
VoteView ResultsShare ThisPolldaddy.com
Have something unique to add to this discussion? Have any particular ideas for enhancing Fort Courage?
Dexter Slice of Life chops up Facebook after Season 6 debut
It's time to see the darker side of Facebook games ... much darker. Like, "a social game about serial killers" dark. Ecko|Code announced that Dexter Slice of Life is now available for play on Facebook, and just in time for the show's Season 6 debut last night. The game enlists players as Dexter, tasking them with the daunting mission of investigating big-time criminals and giving them the axe--literally.
It appears to be the first social game of its kind to employ real-time stealth gameplay that has players stalking Dexter's prey and lunging for the good old shot of tranquilizer. (We're sure you all know what happens afterward.) Of course, there's no escape yet from common Facebook game tropes like maintaining property--in this case, Dexter's apartment complex--but it's the Dark Passenger multiplayer system that Ecko|Code appeared most excited about when they told us all about the game last month.
Dexter Slice of Life kill room
Well, that and the fact that the game features full voiceover work from the show's star, Michael C. Hall. Not to mention that the Dexter screen writers worked with the developer to craft relevant missions that will explore the Season 6 plot in more detail every Monday, after the latest episode airs on Showtime. Slice of Life looks like it might tread new ground in the ever-growing branded games scene on Facebook, but don't take our word for it. See it for yourself, but beware: Spoiler Warning!
Click here to play Dexter Slice of Life on Facebook Now >
Are you psyched to see Dexter get his very own Facebook game? What do you think of branded games thus far on Facebook?
It appears to be the first social game of its kind to employ real-time stealth gameplay that has players stalking Dexter's prey and lunging for the good old shot of tranquilizer. (We're sure you all know what happens afterward.) Of course, there's no escape yet from common Facebook game tropes like maintaining property--in this case, Dexter's apartment complex--but it's the Dark Passenger multiplayer system that Ecko|Code appeared most excited about when they told us all about the game last month.
Dexter Slice of Life kill room
Well, that and the fact that the game features full voiceover work from the show's star, Michael C. Hall. Not to mention that the Dexter screen writers worked with the developer to craft relevant missions that will explore the Season 6 plot in more detail every Monday, after the latest episode airs on Showtime. Slice of Life looks like it might tread new ground in the ever-growing branded games scene on Facebook, but don't take our word for it. See it for yourself, but beware: Spoiler Warning!
Click here to play Dexter Slice of Life on Facebook Now >
Are you psyched to see Dexter get his very own Facebook game? What do you think of branded games thus far on Facebook?
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Adventure World Temple of the Mask Expedition: Everything you need to know
As we told you yesterday, Zoey has come to Adventure World via the suggestion of Indiana Jones, triggering a set of new Expeditions to be launched in the game, starting with Temple of the Mask. This Expedition requires 450 Supplies to start, along with two each of Food, Fuel and Water, and you'll have a whopping six days to complete it. You'll be able to bring up to five friends in on this Expedition with you, so let's get started with our guide.
Exit Temple Right!
Recover the Headdress of the Mask of the Hunter
Use the First Spider Bait to distract the Spiders
Use three more Spider Bait from your Gadget Inventory
Exit the Temple
Your overall goal with these "mask-themed" Expeditions will be to collect pieces of the Mask of the Hunter. Here, you can collect the Headdress. But just because this map looks quiet and peaceful right now, doesn't mean that it will always stay that way. You're conveniently lowered into this area right next to the Headdress, so go ahead and collect it. Just keep in mind that once you do, you'll open up a series of traps, and release tons of spiders that want to stop you from escaping with it.
To use the Spider Bait, you'll need to keep running towards the entrance of the temple until you've reached a prompt to place some. This will attract the Spiders (well, most of them) to the bait, rather than to come after you. A single application of Spider Bait has 25 hit points, and as you continue to move (and the spiders continue to devour it) the points will quickly decrease. You'll want to move as quickly as you can to the other end of the temple!
The Story of the Mask
Ask for 10 Decoder Rings
Collect four Scrolls to Learn the Origin
Use three Pillars to Lean the Origin
Use three Murals to Learn the Origin
As you place Spider Bait and continue to run for the exit, you'll pass by pillars, wall murals and scrolls, along with a few Decoder Rings scattered around on the ground. The Decoder Rings can also be earned by asking your friends to send them to you via a general wall post on your news feed. The major problem with this quest, as you might imagine, is that gathering these items sends you off of the straight and narrow path towards the exit. Every move that you make allows the spider bait to be more used, eventually requiring you to place more, or become overwhelmed with spiders! You can craft more Spider Bait in Zoey's Tent back on Base Camp, so make sure you have a full supply at the ready!
While I'm Here...
Collect five Jade Vases
Collect two Ruby Vases
Collect an Azure Skull
The Azure Skull is located right at the beginning of the Expedition, with the Jade and Ruby Vases are scattered throughout the rest of the map as you proceed. You'll come across them by default when collecting items for the Story of the Mask quest above, so it shouldn't be too difficult to complete this one. Just keep in mind, as with the quest above, as you collect these things, spiders will be moving in ever-closer to your location...
Depending on how thoroughly you explore this temple, or how long it takes you to find the right spots for pushable blocks (see the screenshot above), you could easily use anywhere from 5-10 Spider Baits in completing all three of these Quests. Luckily, you can technically craft a never-ending supply of them back on Base Camp, but this definitely explains why we've been given six days to complete this particular Expedition on its own. You'll likely need that amount of time just in waiting for your friends to send you the materials to craft those Spider Baits! Good luck!
Check out the rest of our Adventure World Cheats & Tips right here.
What do you think of this first Mask of the Hunter Expedition? Do you like the idea of spider baits and distractions, that add more action to the game?
Exit Temple Right!
Recover the Headdress of the Mask of the Hunter
Use the First Spider Bait to distract the Spiders
Use three more Spider Bait from your Gadget Inventory
Exit the Temple
Your overall goal with these "mask-themed" Expeditions will be to collect pieces of the Mask of the Hunter. Here, you can collect the Headdress. But just because this map looks quiet and peaceful right now, doesn't mean that it will always stay that way. You're conveniently lowered into this area right next to the Headdress, so go ahead and collect it. Just keep in mind that once you do, you'll open up a series of traps, and release tons of spiders that want to stop you from escaping with it.
To use the Spider Bait, you'll need to keep running towards the entrance of the temple until you've reached a prompt to place some. This will attract the Spiders (well, most of them) to the bait, rather than to come after you. A single application of Spider Bait has 25 hit points, and as you continue to move (and the spiders continue to devour it) the points will quickly decrease. You'll want to move as quickly as you can to the other end of the temple!
The Story of the Mask
Ask for 10 Decoder Rings
Collect four Scrolls to Learn the Origin
Use three Pillars to Lean the Origin
Use three Murals to Learn the Origin
As you place Spider Bait and continue to run for the exit, you'll pass by pillars, wall murals and scrolls, along with a few Decoder Rings scattered around on the ground. The Decoder Rings can also be earned by asking your friends to send them to you via a general wall post on your news feed. The major problem with this quest, as you might imagine, is that gathering these items sends you off of the straight and narrow path towards the exit. Every move that you make allows the spider bait to be more used, eventually requiring you to place more, or become overwhelmed with spiders! You can craft more Spider Bait in Zoey's Tent back on Base Camp, so make sure you have a full supply at the ready!
While I'm Here...
Collect five Jade Vases
Collect two Ruby Vases
Collect an Azure Skull
The Azure Skull is located right at the beginning of the Expedition, with the Jade and Ruby Vases are scattered throughout the rest of the map as you proceed. You'll come across them by default when collecting items for the Story of the Mask quest above, so it shouldn't be too difficult to complete this one. Just keep in mind, as with the quest above, as you collect these things, spiders will be moving in ever-closer to your location...
Depending on how thoroughly you explore this temple, or how long it takes you to find the right spots for pushable blocks (see the screenshot above), you could easily use anywhere from 5-10 Spider Baits in completing all three of these Quests. Luckily, you can technically craft a never-ending supply of them back on Base Camp, but this definitely explains why we've been given six days to complete this particular Expedition on its own. You'll likely need that amount of time just in waiting for your friends to send you the materials to craft those Spider Baits! Good luck!
Check out the rest of our Adventure World Cheats & Tips right here.
What do you think of this first Mask of the Hunter Expedition? Do you like the idea of spider baits and distractions, that add more action to the game?
Adventure World the Great Stampede Expedition: Everything you need to know
As a second part of the Mask of the Hunter side-story in Adventure World (see the first part: Temple of the Mask), you're asked to head up into the mountains to find the Eyes of the Mask. This particular Expedition is called The Great Stampede, and it requires 450 Goods to start. You'll also need two each of Food, Fuel and Water, and can bring up to five of your friends in on this one with you for extra energy. As it stands, you'll have six full days to complete this Expedition once you start it, but don't think that makes it easy... Let's get started.
Eyes of the Mask
Use two Sirens to Wake Sleeping Tapirs
Recover the Eyes of the Mask from the Faceless Statue
Unlike the last Mask of the Hunter Expedition, this one doesn't place you so conveniently next to your end goal. Instead, you're on the far opposite end of the map, and must choose your path through Mountain Pass, while avoiding Rams, traps and other obstacles. The Sirens are crafted back in Zoey's Tent, the new building that you've been able to construct on Base Camp. You'll need to ask your friends to send you parts not only to construct the Tent, but then to make these Sirens afterwards. Once you have them, you'll find the Sleeping Tapirs - what else - sleeping on the map.
The Heroes of the Mask
Use the four Hero Statues to Read Descriptions
Collect 10 Hero Trophies
Disarm the Gray Spear Trap
The Hero Trophies are sets of bones with spears sticking out of the top of them. You'll find them scattered throughout the map, many times blocked by spear traps (the ones that must be deactivated by interacting with nearby rocks) or areas that are marked with skulls and cross bones. Standing on these squares causes rocks to fall on your head, so try to avoid them if you can.
Bird on a Wire
Ask friends for 18 Helium Balloons
Use Six Flightless Birds to Launch them to Safety
Disarm the Red Spear Trap
While you can ask your friends for these Balloons via individual item requests, you can also find some scattered throughout the map. Just keep in mind that many (but not all, as seen below) are blocked by those skull and cross bone squares I mentioned earlier. That means that the Balloons will actually cost you more than just a single energy to pick up. With energy already being a rarity in the game, perhaps it's best to wait on your friends' help instead.
To find the birds, you'll need to grapple up to the rocks on the far right side of the map. The grapple point can actually be accessed fairly early on in the Expedition, but you'll need the Balloons before you can "launch" these birds to safety. While you're up here, the rock at the bottom of this cliff deactivates the Red Spear Trap.
Once you finish this Expedition, you'll have gathered both the headdress and the eyes to the Mask of the Hunter. What comes next? Make sure to keep checking back with us and we'll make sure to let you know!
Check out the rest of our Adventure World Cheats & Tips right here.
Is this Mask of the Hunter Expedition more difficult than Temple of the Mask? What do you think of the more action-packed Expeditions we've seen launch recently?
Eyes of the Mask
Use two Sirens to Wake Sleeping Tapirs
Recover the Eyes of the Mask from the Faceless Statue
Unlike the last Mask of the Hunter Expedition, this one doesn't place you so conveniently next to your end goal. Instead, you're on the far opposite end of the map, and must choose your path through Mountain Pass, while avoiding Rams, traps and other obstacles. The Sirens are crafted back in Zoey's Tent, the new building that you've been able to construct on Base Camp. You'll need to ask your friends to send you parts not only to construct the Tent, but then to make these Sirens afterwards. Once you have them, you'll find the Sleeping Tapirs - what else - sleeping on the map.
The Heroes of the Mask
Use the four Hero Statues to Read Descriptions
Collect 10 Hero Trophies
Disarm the Gray Spear Trap
The Hero Trophies are sets of bones with spears sticking out of the top of them. You'll find them scattered throughout the map, many times blocked by spear traps (the ones that must be deactivated by interacting with nearby rocks) or areas that are marked with skulls and cross bones. Standing on these squares causes rocks to fall on your head, so try to avoid them if you can.
Bird on a Wire
Ask friends for 18 Helium Balloons
Use Six Flightless Birds to Launch them to Safety
Disarm the Red Spear Trap
While you can ask your friends for these Balloons via individual item requests, you can also find some scattered throughout the map. Just keep in mind that many (but not all, as seen below) are blocked by those skull and cross bone squares I mentioned earlier. That means that the Balloons will actually cost you more than just a single energy to pick up. With energy already being a rarity in the game, perhaps it's best to wait on your friends' help instead.
To find the birds, you'll need to grapple up to the rocks on the far right side of the map. The grapple point can actually be accessed fairly early on in the Expedition, but you'll need the Balloons before you can "launch" these birds to safety. While you're up here, the rock at the bottom of this cliff deactivates the Red Spear Trap.
Once you finish this Expedition, you'll have gathered both the headdress and the eyes to the Mask of the Hunter. What comes next? Make sure to keep checking back with us and we'll make sure to let you know!
Check out the rest of our Adventure World Cheats & Tips right here.
Is this Mask of the Hunter Expedition more difficult than Temple of the Mask? What do you think of the more action-packed Expeditions we've seen launch recently?
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