If you thought the Party Barn / New Year's Ball Drop event would be the one and only set of New Years items that we'd see released in FarmVille, think again, as we have come across a slew of new New Year's Eve themed items that are currently unreleased, but we're expecting to be added to the game in the very near future (perhaps in an update this weekend, if things go as scheduled in the world of FarmVille updates).
The items are as pictured, from left to right at the top of this post: New Year Horse, New Year Foal, Confetti Tree, Disco Ball Tree, Disco Sheep, Cider Fountain, New Year's Eve Sign, New Year's Eve Band, Glitter Palm Fireworks, Dahlia Fireworks.
The names of these items are subject to change at any time, and remember that there is no guarantee as to whether or not we'll actually see these items officially released in the game, so keep in that mind (however, we would be surprised if they all didn't show up in one form or another).
Also, we've read on the official FarmVille forums that some users are receiving Discoball Trees already from Mystery Seedlings. We are working to confirm, and will let you know if they are indeed already available in the game. Keep checking back with us for more.
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
What do you think of the New Year's Eve Party in FarmVille so far?
Thứ Hai, 30 tháng 1, 2012
FarmVille Winter Sneak Peek: Hot Springs, Penguin Fishing Hole, Ice Cow & More
It looks as though Zynga will be looking to continue celebrating Winter in FarmVille through the entire winter season (that is, even after the holidays as passed), as we've come across some new unreleased images of four new items that we believe will be coming to the game in the near future.
The four items, listed from left to right in the image above are: Monkey Hot Springs, Penguin Fishing Hole, Ice Cow, and Ice Duck.
Remember, the final names of these items are still up in the air (these may just serve as placeholders), and there is no actual guarantee as to whether these items will officially be released in the game, so keep that in mind. Additionally, we're not sure how these items will make an appearance. Will they be part of an upcoming Mystery Game? Will they be free gifts, premium items in the store, or Mystery Gift prizes? Only time will tell, but we'll be sure to give you all of the details once we have them.
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
In what other ways would you like to see Zynga celebrate winter after the holidays have passed in FarmVille?
The four items, listed from left to right in the image above are: Monkey Hot Springs, Penguin Fishing Hole, Ice Cow, and Ice Duck.
Remember, the final names of these items are still up in the air (these may just serve as placeholders), and there is no actual guarantee as to whether these items will officially be released in the game, so keep that in mind. Additionally, we're not sure how these items will make an appearance. Will they be part of an upcoming Mystery Game? Will they be free gifts, premium items in the store, or Mystery Gift prizes? Only time will tell, but we'll be sure to give you all of the details once we have them.
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
In what other ways would you like to see Zynga celebrate winter after the holidays have passed in FarmVille?
FarmVille Animal Sneak Peek: Brown Gypsy Horse, Brown Gypsy Foal, Baby Penguin
If you're an animal collector in FarmVille, I've got some great new unreleased item images to share with you! These animals are, from left to right in the image above: Brown Gypsy Horse, Brown Gypsy Foal, and Baby Penguin.
Not to be confused with the black and white, regular Gypsy Horse released at the end of November as part of the Winter Holiday theme of items, this Brown Gypsy Horse will be an entirely different animal, able to be placed inside the Horse Stable and bred with a Stallion to produce the adorable Brown Gypsy Foal also seen above. We're guessing that if the Brown Gypsy Horse doesn't make an appearance in a Mystery Game soon, that it will be available in the store for Farm Cash.
Meanwhile, the Baby Penguin is equally interesting, if not even more so. Since Penguins have been available in the game since even last year, this begs the question - Could Zynga be looking to create a Penguin "home" of some kind, through which these Baby Penguins would be bred? Or will it simply be released as a regular animal release in the store? Only time will tell, but personally, I'm hoping for another animal storage building (especially if it means I get to have all of those cute, fluffy Baby Penguins running around on my farm!).
Remember, there is no guarantee that these items will be officially released within the game, so keep that in mind. Keep checking back with us though, as we'll make sure to give you guys all of the information about these new animals if and when they are released.
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
Not to be confused with the black and white, regular Gypsy Horse released at the end of November as part of the Winter Holiday theme of items, this Brown Gypsy Horse will be an entirely different animal, able to be placed inside the Horse Stable and bred with a Stallion to produce the adorable Brown Gypsy Foal also seen above. We're guessing that if the Brown Gypsy Horse doesn't make an appearance in a Mystery Game soon, that it will be available in the store for Farm Cash.
Meanwhile, the Baby Penguin is equally interesting, if not even more so. Since Penguins have been available in the game since even last year, this begs the question - Could Zynga be looking to create a Penguin "home" of some kind, through which these Baby Penguins would be bred? Or will it simply be released as a regular animal release in the store? Only time will tell, but personally, I'm hoping for another animal storage building (especially if it means I get to have all of those cute, fluffy Baby Penguins running around on my farm!).
Remember, there is no guarantee that these items will be officially released within the game, so keep that in mind. Keep checking back with us though, as we'll make sure to give you guys all of the information about these new animals if and when they are released.
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
FarmVille: The Case of the Missing Holiday Ducks
A new mystery has appeared in the land of FarmVille, concerning an item that was assumed to be released with last night's FarmVille update, but either wasn't, or jumped out of the store just as soon as it entered. The item is the Holiday Ducks decoration (a set of ducks standing underneath mistletoe that apparently kiss). As this entire ordeal has spawned user outrage and confusion, we thought we'd take a minute to shed some light on the current state of affairs concerning when and if this item will ever be coming back to the store.
As of last night's update, the Holiday Ducks are nowhere to be found in the game, which is especially odd, considering that a recently added FarmVille loading screen, and the in-game marketplace (pictured) both contain images of the item. So, at least we know that the Holiday Ducks are real.
Multiple threads have appeared on the official FarmVille forums concerning these missing animals, with some users reporting that the Ducks were available in the store for a very brief period yesterday evening, before mysteriously vanishing without a trace. Furthermore, Zynga even announced that the Holiday Ducks were available in the store for 15 Farm Cash. We've read user reports of finding the ducks for 15 or 20 Farm Cash, but we have no visual proof of their existence - they disappeared that quickly.
This becomes even more of an issue when we take a look at the time limit for the other Winter Holiday items that are currently available in the store. Even those items that were released last night will only be available for 9 days, and every day that the ducks remain MIA is apparently another day that users won't have to purchase them, if and when they reappear.
Where did they go? Honestly, we don't know at this point. As of this writing, they are nowhere to be found in the game's store, and they aren't on the free gifts page. We've contacted Zynga for comment, and will be sure to let you know if and when this situation changes. We're assuming that this the disappearance of the ducks was due to an in-game glitch of some kind, but we'll continue to keep digging for information in case something else is going on.
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
In the meantime, let us know if you've spotted these Holiday Ducks for yourself in the comments. Do you have the Ducks in your own store right now?
As of last night's update, the Holiday Ducks are nowhere to be found in the game, which is especially odd, considering that a recently added FarmVille loading screen, and the in-game marketplace (pictured) both contain images of the item. So, at least we know that the Holiday Ducks are real.
Multiple threads have appeared on the official FarmVille forums concerning these missing animals, with some users reporting that the Ducks were available in the store for a very brief period yesterday evening, before mysteriously vanishing without a trace. Furthermore, Zynga even announced that the Holiday Ducks were available in the store for 15 Farm Cash. We've read user reports of finding the ducks for 15 or 20 Farm Cash, but we have no visual proof of their existence - they disappeared that quickly.
This becomes even more of an issue when we take a look at the time limit for the other Winter Holiday items that are currently available in the store. Even those items that were released last night will only be available for 9 days, and every day that the ducks remain MIA is apparently another day that users won't have to purchase them, if and when they reappear.
Where did they go? Honestly, we don't know at this point. As of this writing, they are nowhere to be found in the game's store, and they aren't on the free gifts page. We've contacted Zynga for comment, and will be sure to let you know if and when this situation changes. We're assuming that this the disappearance of the ducks was due to an in-game glitch of some kind, but we'll continue to keep digging for information in case something else is going on.
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
In the meantime, let us know if you've spotted these Holiday Ducks for yourself in the comments. Do you have the Ducks in your own store right now?
It's Official: CityVille dethrones FarmVille as Zynga's top Facebook game
Alright, so it didn't exactly happen yesterday, but CityVille has soared high above FarmVille's 56.8 million players with a massive (for these days) 61.7 million monthly players. It did what many thought was the impossible in just 22 days, according to Inside Social, and it took good old FarmVille four months to reach that size back in the day. While we've already explored what might have contributed to the game's blindingly fast rise to Zynga supremacy, it's impossible to tell how long this will last.
It will take at least another month for CityVille's numbers to stabilize--or at least slow down, for Pete's sake. These numbers are purely an accumulation of the amount of players who have logged into the game at least once in the past three weeks. Whether the game can hold the interest of its nearly 62 million players for a lengthy period of time has yet to be seen. However, if the game keeps growing at this rate, it could easily meet FarmVille's former glory of 84 million monthly players by 2011. Until then, Mark Pincus and the CityVille team can enjoy their early Christmas gift Scrooge McDuck style.
Can CityVille meet and surpass FarmVille's all-time high of 84 million players? How long do you think CityVille will last as Zynga's top game?
It will take at least another month for CityVille's numbers to stabilize--or at least slow down, for Pete's sake. These numbers are purely an accumulation of the amount of players who have logged into the game at least once in the past three weeks. Whether the game can hold the interest of its nearly 62 million players for a lengthy period of time has yet to be seen. However, if the game keeps growing at this rate, it could easily meet FarmVille's former glory of 84 million monthly players by 2011. Until then, Mark Pincus and the CityVille team can enjoy their early Christmas gift Scrooge McDuck style.
Can CityVille meet and surpass FarmVille's all-time high of 84 million players? How long do you think CityVille will last as Zynga's top game?
Thứ Tư, 11 tháng 1, 2012
Lego Universe goes free-to-play this August, who needs plastic bricks?
Lego Universe
Honestly, have you seen how expensive those sets are? The Lego Group has announced that its flagship MMO (massively-multiplayer online game), Lego Universe, will become free to play this August. The game will then allow would-be Lego fanatics--like I was circa 1995--to get into the world-creation action at no cost indefinitely. Not to mention that the initial cost of the game will be slashed to zero as well, as Lego Universe will be a direct download as soon as it goes free-to-play.
"The LEGO Group remains committed to success in the digital space and to LEGO Universe," said Lego Group VP Jesper Vilstrup in a release. "We see LEGO Universe as a key element for our digital play division, and are adjusting the business model to make the game more accessible to players, without the immediate obligation to purchase or subscribe."
While the game becomes more and more like a Facebook game, the Lego Group will still offer paid subscriptions with added benefits. However, there are no micro-transactions planned at this time. (I have $10 on that stance changing in the next two months. Who's in?) And unfortunately, the free version of the game will offer limited content: "two adventure zones and one player property area for building their own virtual LEGO models," the Lego Group wrote in a statement.
Lego Universe joins a lot of MMOs going free to increase their player bases in a social game-like fashion such as Spiral Knights on Steam. Those who pay the $10 monthly subscription will enjoy everything the game has to offer and will be exclusively eligible for the game's first expansion, Ninjago. Either way, this sounds like a fine way to test the waters before committing to that monthly fee, so tell the youngin's to hang tight and play with that new plastic Lego set you picked up for them last week. (Your secret is safe with us.)
Honestly, have you seen how expensive those sets are? The Lego Group has announced that its flagship MMO (massively-multiplayer online game), Lego Universe, will become free to play this August. The game will then allow would-be Lego fanatics--like I was circa 1995--to get into the world-creation action at no cost indefinitely. Not to mention that the initial cost of the game will be slashed to zero as well, as Lego Universe will be a direct download as soon as it goes free-to-play.
"The LEGO Group remains committed to success in the digital space and to LEGO Universe," said Lego Group VP Jesper Vilstrup in a release. "We see LEGO Universe as a key element for our digital play division, and are adjusting the business model to make the game more accessible to players, without the immediate obligation to purchase or subscribe."
While the game becomes more and more like a Facebook game, the Lego Group will still offer paid subscriptions with added benefits. However, there are no micro-transactions planned at this time. (I have $10 on that stance changing in the next two months. Who's in?) And unfortunately, the free version of the game will offer limited content: "two adventure zones and one player property area for building their own virtual LEGO models," the Lego Group wrote in a statement.
Lego Universe joins a lot of MMOs going free to increase their player bases in a social game-like fashion such as Spiral Knights on Steam. Those who pay the $10 monthly subscription will enjoy everything the game has to offer and will be exclusively eligible for the game's first expansion, Ninjago. Either way, this sounds like a fine way to test the waters before committing to that monthly fee, so tell the youngin's to hang tight and play with that new plastic Lego set you picked up for them last week. (Your secret is safe with us.)
PopCap's Bejeweled 3 coming to Nintendo DS, go zen on the go
Soon, you'll be able to go zen while on the move (sounds relaxing, huh?). PopCap announced that it will release its critically-acclaimed Bejeweled 3 on the Nintendo DS this fall or winter, according to Pocket Gamer. More specifically, PopCap said that the game is coming to the DS in the fourth quarter, which spans October to December of this year. Though, we can't help but wonder why PopCap would pass up the allure of 3D(S)--perhaps to hit the largest amount of handheld Nintendo fans?
While PopCap hasn't revealed any details on what will be included in the portable version of last year's PC casual hit, we can't imagine it won't include Zen Mode. I mean, that's the whole hook of the new Bejeweled, no? (We just want to go zen wherever we go--is that too much to ask?) PopCap also announced that the game is headed to Xbox 360 and PS3 through Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network, according to PCMag. We've contacted PopCap for more information.
While PopCap hasn't revealed any details on what will be included in the portable version of last year's PC casual hit, we can't imagine it won't include Zen Mode. I mean, that's the whole hook of the new Bejeweled, no? (We just want to go zen wherever we go--is that too much to ask?) PopCap also announced that the game is headed to Xbox 360 and PS3 through Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network, according to PCMag. We've contacted PopCap for more information.
New social game pokes fun at corrupt Russian politics
Here's a new social game idea that's ripe for the picking. (Are you listening, Zynga?) A new game called Politics, has arrived on the Russian social network/Facebook clone VKontakte and was designed as both a parody of the Russian government and a way to get younger people more engaged in the political process.
"This is the election year for Russia and people's interest to politics, already blended with pop culture, will grow," Max Masin, Politics developer and producer, says in a statement. "The idea behind the game combines the interactivity of social gaming with relevant, newsworthy content."
To play Politics you must be invited by a current player. Once you're in, you start out as an average Joe and work your way up to running for President, working your way through the Russian political system, which includes dealing with corruption, including bribery and kickbacks. Right now, the game is available exclusively through VKontakte, but the creators plans to release versions to other popular Russian social networks as well.
As for an eventual release on Facebook -- there's no word on that just yet, though an English-language rendition of this game (or something in the same vein) might be what apathetic Americans need to get revved up for the upcoming 2012 election year.
"This is the election year for Russia and people's interest to politics, already blended with pop culture, will grow," Max Masin, Politics developer and producer, says in a statement. "The idea behind the game combines the interactivity of social gaming with relevant, newsworthy content."
To play Politics you must be invited by a current player. Once you're in, you start out as an average Joe and work your way up to running for President, working your way through the Russian political system, which includes dealing with corruption, including bribery and kickbacks. Right now, the game is available exclusively through VKontakte, but the creators plans to release versions to other popular Russian social networks as well.
As for an eventual release on Facebook -- there's no word on that just yet, though an English-language rendition of this game (or something in the same vein) might be what apathetic Americans need to get revved up for the upcoming 2012 election year.
BigPoint's RamaCity takes on Zynga's CityVille, but not on Facebook
RamaCity by BigPoint
We're not sure why companies are competing with Zynga directly, but alas here we are again. BigPoint, creator of hit free-to-play MMOs (massively multiplayer online games) like Battlestar Galactica Online and Lord of Ultima, has released RamaCity. And this free-to-play city building game looks a helluva lot like CityVille, Zynga's number one Facebook game. In fact, we're so inclined as to say that RamaCity is looking to compete directly with the 90 million-strong social game.
Honestly, RamaCity is nearly indistinguishable from its would-be opponent--it was even created in Flash, the primary tool developers use to make Facebook games. Players are given their own small town that they must erect a bustling city out of. The game limits players' actions with an Energy system like its counterpart, though it handles Goods production and stores differently. There are no farms in RamaCity.
We used the term "would-be" above because BigPoint's next big game isn't even on Facebook; the company is hosting RamaCity on its own dedicated website. And you can even add new friends to collaborate and play with through email, Facebook and Twitter. What you have here is essentially a social game without the Facebook integration, and one that seems to be trying very hard to repeat CityVille's runaway success. But whether BigPoint can accomplish that without true Facebook connectivity has obviously yet to be seen.
We're not sure why companies are competing with Zynga directly, but alas here we are again. BigPoint, creator of hit free-to-play MMOs (massively multiplayer online games) like Battlestar Galactica Online and Lord of Ultima, has released RamaCity. And this free-to-play city building game looks a helluva lot like CityVille, Zynga's number one Facebook game. In fact, we're so inclined as to say that RamaCity is looking to compete directly with the 90 million-strong social game.
Honestly, RamaCity is nearly indistinguishable from its would-be opponent--it was even created in Flash, the primary tool developers use to make Facebook games. Players are given their own small town that they must erect a bustling city out of. The game limits players' actions with an Energy system like its counterpart, though it handles Goods production and stores differently. There are no farms in RamaCity.
We used the term "would-be" above because BigPoint's next big game isn't even on Facebook; the company is hosting RamaCity on its own dedicated website. And you can even add new friends to collaborate and play with through email, Facebook and Twitter. What you have here is essentially a social game without the Facebook integration, and one that seems to be trying very hard to repeat CityVille's runaway success. But whether BigPoint can accomplish that without true Facebook connectivity has obviously yet to be seen.
Better Business Bureau processed 436 Zynga complaints in 36 months, study says
And several other, more happy-go-lucky statistics were included in a study conducted by Single Grain, an SEO firm. The study reveals interesting statistics like of the 20 percent of people in US that have played a social game, 35 percent of them have never played a video game before. Of course, the seven ways of telling us that more women play Facebook games than men are included. (It's just not a survey without them.)
However, as you scroll down the infographic, the findings become a bit darker (and weirder), like Single Grain's finding that, "The Better Business Bureau processed 436 complaints about Zynga in the last 36 months." And to think that 90 percent of the company's revenue is thanks to virtual goods purchases. Speaking of weirder, did you know that the FarmVille maker's employees, when chosen for quarterly awards, have a choice between "a car filled with vested stock" or "a weekend spree in a $200,000 Lamborghini?"
It's true, and they're even offered trips to Vegas with acupuncture and massage treatments. In addition to one in every five Facebook users having played FarmVille, digital farmers outnumber real farmers in the US 80 to one. Not to mention half of all Facebook log-ins are to play games. According to Single Grain's findings, Zynga is having a grand old time--except for those nasty BBB reports. Oh well, there's always Vegas to help wash those worries away.
Social Gaming infographic
However, as you scroll down the infographic, the findings become a bit darker (and weirder), like Single Grain's finding that, "The Better Business Bureau processed 436 complaints about Zynga in the last 36 months." And to think that 90 percent of the company's revenue is thanks to virtual goods purchases. Speaking of weirder, did you know that the FarmVille maker's employees, when chosen for quarterly awards, have a choice between "a car filled with vested stock" or "a weekend spree in a $200,000 Lamborghini?"
It's true, and they're even offered trips to Vegas with acupuncture and massage treatments. In addition to one in every five Facebook users having played FarmVille, digital farmers outnumber real farmers in the US 80 to one. Not to mention half of all Facebook log-ins are to play games. According to Single Grain's findings, Zynga is having a grand old time--except for those nasty BBB reports. Oh well, there's always Vegas to help wash those worries away.
Social Gaming infographic
Thứ Ba, 10 tháng 1, 2012
LEGO Universe goes free-to-play; remember to give the kids a try, too
We know your inner child can't resist, but try to remember your outer children, kay? The LEGO Group has finally made a nice chunk of LEGO Universe, the MMO (massively multiplayer online game) created by NetDevil, free to play. The game is going the way of Facebook games and the legion of MMOs before it to make bank a few extra bucks. However, fans who want to get in on the action for free will be relegated to the new Free to Play Zone, an area blocked off from the rest of the game.
But don't think this form of digital plastic segregation means you'll be lesser than those willing to put up 10 bucks a month (which The LEGO Group points out you can upgrade to at any time). Free players will be granted access to two adventure zones to romp through, a player property area to build new LEGO creations in and the chance to participate in mini games and face the ominous-sounding Spider Queen. Well, as ominous as plastic toys can get.
Just like in your favorite Facebook games, free players can visit their friends' property areas and see what they've created. The LEGO Group says in a statement, "If you haven't played LEGO Universe yet, now is the time!" Obvious marketing speak or not, it's pretty tough to disagree with free. LEGO Universe is available for free digital download only right here. If you can't sate your inner 12-year-old long enough for your real 12-year-old to play, you might want to install this baby on two machines.
But don't think this form of digital plastic segregation means you'll be lesser than those willing to put up 10 bucks a month (which The LEGO Group points out you can upgrade to at any time). Free players will be granted access to two adventure zones to romp through, a player property area to build new LEGO creations in and the chance to participate in mini games and face the ominous-sounding Spider Queen. Well, as ominous as plastic toys can get.
Just like in your favorite Facebook games, free players can visit their friends' property areas and see what they've created. The LEGO Group says in a statement, "If you haven't played LEGO Universe yet, now is the time!" Obvious marketing speak or not, it's pretty tough to disagree with free. LEGO Universe is available for free digital download only right here. If you can't sate your inner 12-year-old long enough for your real 12-year-old to play, you might want to install this baby on two machines.
Syfy Games set to launch on Facebook with new partner KlickNation
We first caught wind of Syfy getting into the social games biz back in March, and it has moved quickly, all things considered. A glance at KlickNation's top games is enough to tell you why Syfy chose this fledgling, Sacramento, CA-based game developer to make their Facebook games. KlickNation currently has about 1.2 million players spread out across four major games (in order of most popular to least) -- Six Gun Galaxy, Age of Champions, Superhero City, and Starship Command: Battle for Earth. These four fall right in line with the kinds of genres the Syfy Channel purports to service.
Under its undisclosed, multi-year, multi-million dollar contract with Syfy, KlickNation will be unleashing a combat game about the Olympian gods, called Age of Immortals, later this year. Syfy President David Howe also reports that "around six Facebook games" are in the works. KlickNation must be ecstatic, because partnering with Syfy (in conjunction with NBC Universal) means access to a newer, wider audience and bigger budgets. And, who knows, maybe one of these games will be turned into a new Syfy film or TV series.
Syfy Games logo
Truth be told, the Syfy Channel leaves many science fiction fans feeling lukewarm. Every now and then, the network champions a gem, such as Battlestar Galactica, but lately have taken to indulging in corny, B-movie fare, such as Megashark vs Giant Octopus. Or even worse, the network airs shows that have nothing to do with science fiction, such as WWE SmackDown. Then again, shows like Megashark vs Giant Octopus could be translated into one helluva Facebook game.
Under its undisclosed, multi-year, multi-million dollar contract with Syfy, KlickNation will be unleashing a combat game about the Olympian gods, called Age of Immortals, later this year. Syfy President David Howe also reports that "around six Facebook games" are in the works. KlickNation must be ecstatic, because partnering with Syfy (in conjunction with NBC Universal) means access to a newer, wider audience and bigger budgets. And, who knows, maybe one of these games will be turned into a new Syfy film or TV series.
Syfy Games logo
Truth be told, the Syfy Channel leaves many science fiction fans feeling lukewarm. Every now and then, the network champions a gem, such as Battlestar Galactica, but lately have taken to indulging in corny, B-movie fare, such as Megashark vs Giant Octopus. Or even worse, the network airs shows that have nothing to do with science fiction, such as WWE SmackDown. Then again, shows like Megashark vs Giant Octopus could be translated into one helluva Facebook game.
Angry Birds creator might be worth a happy $1.2 billion [Rumor]
The perma-frown on the Angry Birds' faces might finally turn upside down. Bloomberg reports, citing "two people with knowledge of the discussions," that Finnish creator Rovio could be valued at $1.2 billion if talks to receive extra funding go through. The creator of arguably the most popular mobile game, um, ever is in investment talks with a company in the entertainment business. That most vague of statements leaves the possibilities up to ... a couple hundred companies, but industry analyst Michael Pachter of Wedbush Securities has narrowed it down to a select few.
Of course, Zynga could be the big spender, especially considering recent rumors. But Pachter goes on to make educated guesses including EA, News Corp. and Disney. "I can see how Disney would take 'Angry Birds' and turn them into a theme-park ride and a movie," Pachter told Bloomberg. "Zynga could take 'Angry Birds' and make it into 'FarmVille.'"
We're going to just ignore that blanket statement regarding FarmVille. As for EA, though, we doubt it's in any position to invest right now considering it just spent an effective $1.3 billion alone on Bejeweled creator PopCap. But Pachter makes a whole lot of sense with his Disney guess, especially since Rovio has made its goals for the Angry Birds franchise crystal clear. And don't forget, Disney has been in the games biz for quite some time before even Facebook games with Playdom.
(A sidenote: Can I just say how surprised I am that Rovio is being valued at just $1.2 billion? When's the last time you mentioned the damned game and someone hadn't heard of it? Sure, Zynga is worth at least $11.5 billion thanks to virtual goods, but I've yet to hear of a FarmVille movie.)
On top of being found on every device out there (even Facebook someday), Rovio works diligently on turning Angry Birds into an internationally-recognized icon much like--dare I say--Mickey Mouse. And Old Big Ears has grown a bit ragged over the years, no? As with all rumors, this is all wild, but educated, speculation. Now all we can do is wait for Rovio to announce a "Steamboat Angry Birds" update somewhere down the line.
Of course, Zynga could be the big spender, especially considering recent rumors. But Pachter goes on to make educated guesses including EA, News Corp. and Disney. "I can see how Disney would take 'Angry Birds' and turn them into a theme-park ride and a movie," Pachter told Bloomberg. "Zynga could take 'Angry Birds' and make it into 'FarmVille.'"
We're going to just ignore that blanket statement regarding FarmVille. As for EA, though, we doubt it's in any position to invest right now considering it just spent an effective $1.3 billion alone on Bejeweled creator PopCap. But Pachter makes a whole lot of sense with his Disney guess, especially since Rovio has made its goals for the Angry Birds franchise crystal clear. And don't forget, Disney has been in the games biz for quite some time before even Facebook games with Playdom.
(A sidenote: Can I just say how surprised I am that Rovio is being valued at just $1.2 billion? When's the last time you mentioned the damned game and someone hadn't heard of it? Sure, Zynga is worth at least $11.5 billion thanks to virtual goods, but I've yet to hear of a FarmVille movie.)
On top of being found on every device out there (even Facebook someday), Rovio works diligently on turning Angry Birds into an internationally-recognized icon much like--dare I say--Mickey Mouse. And Old Big Ears has grown a bit ragged over the years, no? As with all rumors, this is all wild, but educated, speculation. Now all we can do is wait for Rovio to announce a "Steamboat Angry Birds" update somewhere down the line.
Digital Chocolate expands its reach with acquisition of Sandlot Games
Digital Chocolate, a social game developer for mobile and Facebook best known for the popular game Millionaire City, has just acquired Sandlot Games. Sandlot Games are a publisher that host a variety of games on their web portal, with favorites being Super Granny and Cake Mania. The company is headquartered in Bothell, Washington and was founded in 2002, making it a fairly experienced casual games development team.
Trip Hawkins, Founder and CEO of Digital Chocolate says that this acquisition will help them "now expand further in Seattle and Eastern Europe." He also mentions that they expect to be the leading game studio in 5 of the 7 cities where they have a development presence. The partnership is mutually beneficial, enabling both parties to reach larger audiences with their cross--platform titles.
Digital Chocolate has been doing well in their efforts to go cross-platform. The company has had over 100 million game installs of titles like Millionaire City and Zombie Lane on the web, and has released over 100 social and casual titles.
Trip Hawkins, Founder and CEO of Digital Chocolate says that this acquisition will help them "now expand further in Seattle and Eastern Europe." He also mentions that they expect to be the leading game studio in 5 of the 7 cities where they have a development presence. The partnership is mutually beneficial, enabling both parties to reach larger audiences with their cross--platform titles.
Digital Chocolate has been doing well in their efforts to go cross-platform. The company has had over 100 million game installs of titles like Millionaire City and Zombie Lane on the web, and has released over 100 social and casual titles.
EA sinks its teeth into Trade Nations developer Bight Games
Sometimes they're just way too easy to pass up. EA, veteran games publisher and now proud owner of PopCap Games, has purchased Charlottetown, Canada-based mobile game developer Bight Games for an undisclosed amount. (And just when you thought EA had little money left to throw around.)
Bight Games is best known for freemium iPhone games, or mobile games that take on the Facebook games payment model, like Trade Nations. In fact, the developer recently brought it's popular iPhone game published by Z2Live, Trade Nations, to Facebook.
Bight Games will join the existing EA Interactive (EAi) development division in Canada, though according to a blog post written by EAi lead Barry Cottle, EAi and Bight Games already go way back. The team has helped in the creation of several unnamed EAi mobile games, so I guess we can think of this as the two simply tying the knot after dating for so long--so cute!
"The freemium game model in mobile is here to stay, and it's growing fast," Cottle writes. And the guy has a point. Just look at games like Smurfs Village for iPhone by Capcom, which we all know probably did a little too well. But that's just one of likely hundreds of successful freemium games on smartphones. And EAi looks to dig deeper into that gold mine once the deal closes later this month.
Bight Games is best known for freemium iPhone games, or mobile games that take on the Facebook games payment model, like Trade Nations. In fact, the developer recently brought it's popular iPhone game published by Z2Live, Trade Nations, to Facebook.
Bight Games will join the existing EA Interactive (EAi) development division in Canada, though according to a blog post written by EAi lead Barry Cottle, EAi and Bight Games already go way back. The team has helped in the creation of several unnamed EAi mobile games, so I guess we can think of this as the two simply tying the knot after dating for so long--so cute!
"The freemium game model in mobile is here to stay, and it's growing fast," Cottle writes. And the guy has a point. Just look at games like Smurfs Village for iPhone by Capcom, which we all know probably did a little too well. But that's just one of likely hundreds of successful freemium games on smartphones. And EAi looks to dig deeper into that gold mine once the deal closes later this month.
Thứ Hai, 9 tháng 1, 2012
CityVille inventory limit raised to 2,000 - the sky's the limit!
As if the CityVille inventory cap hasn't been raised enough since the game's launch in late 2010, Zynga has announced that once again, the inventory cap has been raised. Up until this point, we've seen the inventory being raised (in multiple updates) from 100 items to the previous limit of 500 items. Now, though, since 500 items apparently doesn't allow players to store everything they could possibly need, you'll be able to store a whopping 2,000 items via the new inventory cap.
Seriously, Zynga? 2,000 items? Not that we're complaining about the extra space (which we've been given for free), but why even bother having an inventory limit at that point? Will the average player really ever have 2,000 items in their inventory at one time? Probably not, so why implement that seemingly arbitrary numerical limit on players at all?
Users don't have to deal with a tight inventory cap in FrontierVille, and in my opinion the game is better off for it. It'll be interesting to see just how far Zynga will increase the inventory cap before perhaps coming to the same conclusion that no inventory cap is better than having one, no matter how large.
What do you think of the 2,000 item limit in CityVille? Have you ever encountered a time where you ran out of room in your inventory?
Seriously, Zynga? 2,000 items? Not that we're complaining about the extra space (which we've been given for free), but why even bother having an inventory limit at that point? Will the average player really ever have 2,000 items in their inventory at one time? Probably not, so why implement that seemingly arbitrary numerical limit on players at all?
Users don't have to deal with a tight inventory cap in FrontierVille, and in my opinion the game is better off for it. It'll be interesting to see just how far Zynga will increase the inventory cap before perhaps coming to the same conclusion that no inventory cap is better than having one, no matter how large.
What do you think of the 2,000 item limit in CityVille? Have you ever encountered a time where you ran out of room in your inventory?
CityVille Winter Clothing Quest: Everything you need to know
Brrrrr. It's cold out there in CityVille! After the release of winter snow on the landscape, your virtual little citizens have got to be freezing, walking around without coats, gloves or hats! That being the case, Zynga has released a new mission called Winter Clothing that will see you collecting such items for your city's inhabitants, of course via the help of friends.
The Winter Clothing mission requires the following:
7 Mittens
7 Winter Coats
7 Winter Hats
You'll be able to unlock any of these tasks for 45 City Cash, if you'd like to not bug your friends to help you, but for everyone else, you can click on the "Ask your friends!" button to post a news item to your wall asking your friends to help you. While you'll likely be able to receive 7 items fairly quickly through these wall posts (if you're like us and have a lot of your friends playing), you can also earn these items in the old-fashioned way - head over to the Free Gifts page and send one of these winter clothing items to your friends in the hopes that they'll send one back.
One other aspect that makes the wall posts the preferred method here is the fact that this is a "Give one, get one" situation - if you answer your friends' calls for help, you'll receive the same item in return. Two birds with one stone - gotta love it.
Make sure to take part in this new quest before your townspeople freeze in the cold! Note: If you don't see the mission appear the next time you start the game (the mission icon is a red hat and pair of mittens), refreshing the game should do the trick of forcing it to appear.
The Winter Clothing mission requires the following:
7 Mittens
7 Winter Coats
7 Winter Hats
You'll be able to unlock any of these tasks for 45 City Cash, if you'd like to not bug your friends to help you, but for everyone else, you can click on the "Ask your friends!" button to post a news item to your wall asking your friends to help you. While you'll likely be able to receive 7 items fairly quickly through these wall posts (if you're like us and have a lot of your friends playing), you can also earn these items in the old-fashioned way - head over to the Free Gifts page and send one of these winter clothing items to your friends in the hopes that they'll send one back.
One other aspect that makes the wall posts the preferred method here is the fact that this is a "Give one, get one" situation - if you answer your friends' calls for help, you'll receive the same item in return. Two birds with one stone - gotta love it.
Make sure to take part in this new quest before your townspeople freeze in the cold! Note: If you don't see the mission appear the next time you start the game (the mission icon is a red hat and pair of mittens), refreshing the game should do the trick of forcing it to appear.
CityVille Game Updates: Holiday Tree event extended, new features are coming
A new batch of updates and bug fixes have been launched in CityVille this week, with Zynga announcing the lot of them via the game's official forums. There, we see that the game's Black Lab decorative item has been removed from the store, with the explanation being that it has been removed "in preparation for an upcoming feature."
While dogs in FarmVille is one thing, dogs in CityVille seem like they would always be decorative items, since you are playing from a true nameless, faceless perspective, and dogs are just downright tiny in the game. It will be interesting to see what this new feature Zynga speaks of turns out to be, and we'll be sure to let you know what it is, as soon as we can.
In other news, the 7th Franchise for higher level players has now been fixed, so that users can actually see, and therefore interact with, their 7th Franchise building from within the Franchise menu. Quest completion dialog boxes have been repaired, so that they will show up as expected after completing quests, rather than remaining invisible in some cases, and the overall Winter Wonderland quests have been made easier to allow those newer or lower level players (or just those players that don't have hours to dedicate to the game at once) a better chance of finishing them before they expire.
Speaking of expiration dates, the Holiday Tree event has been extended. If you've yet to reach the 80 present limit to finish the final quest, and the tree itself, you now have even more time to do so. You'll still need to hurry, however, as this extension definitely isn't permanent, and you won't want to waste any of this extra time that you've been given.
And there you have it! A complete rundown of updates and additions in the biggest game on Facebook. Enjoy!
While dogs in FarmVille is one thing, dogs in CityVille seem like they would always be decorative items, since you are playing from a true nameless, faceless perspective, and dogs are just downright tiny in the game. It will be interesting to see what this new feature Zynga speaks of turns out to be, and we'll be sure to let you know what it is, as soon as we can.
In other news, the 7th Franchise for higher level players has now been fixed, so that users can actually see, and therefore interact with, their 7th Franchise building from within the Franchise menu. Quest completion dialog boxes have been repaired, so that they will show up as expected after completing quests, rather than remaining invisible in some cases, and the overall Winter Wonderland quests have been made easier to allow those newer or lower level players (or just those players that don't have hours to dedicate to the game at once) a better chance of finishing them before they expire.
Speaking of expiration dates, the Holiday Tree event has been extended. If you've yet to reach the 80 present limit to finish the final quest, and the tree itself, you now have even more time to do so. You'll still need to hurry, however, as this extension definitely isn't permanent, and you won't want to waste any of this extra time that you've been given.
And there you have it! A complete rundown of updates and additions in the biggest game on Facebook. Enjoy!
FrontierVille Care Packages return, Special Deliveries for frontier folk
FrontierVille Care Packages
It was only a matter of time before FrontierVille got a hold of one of the most loved and hated features in Zynga games once again. They're called Care Packages and most of you will recognize them from when they were first introduced to FrontierVille almost two months ago. But for the uninformed, they're essentially FarmVille's Special Deliveries with a new name. These "smart" gifts, when received and opened, will contain one item that you need for either a Goal you're currently on or a building that's under construction.
Unlike Special Deliveries in FarmVille or Cafe World, Zynga claims Care Packages will only be around for a limited time in FrontierVille. Unfortunately, I've yet to see them appear in my Free Gifts page, which probably means they're slowly being rolled out to players. Regardless of whether you like them, expect a deluge of Care Packages in your Gift Box shortly.
It was only a matter of time before FrontierVille got a hold of one of the most loved and hated features in Zynga games once again. They're called Care Packages and most of you will recognize them from when they were first introduced to FrontierVille almost two months ago. But for the uninformed, they're essentially FarmVille's Special Deliveries with a new name. These "smart" gifts, when received and opened, will contain one item that you need for either a Goal you're currently on or a building that's under construction.
Unlike Special Deliveries in FarmVille or Cafe World, Zynga claims Care Packages will only be around for a limited time in FrontierVille. Unfortunately, I've yet to see them appear in my Free Gifts page, which probably means they're slowly being rolled out to players. Regardless of whether you like them, expect a deluge of Care Packages in your Gift Box shortly.
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Ski Resort, Fjord Horse, Blue Duck and more
Fjord Foal Prz Horse Fjord Horse
And just when we all thought FarmVille's Winter Wonderland Theme had ended with the most recent edition of FarmVille Showcase yesterday, FarmVille Freak has found a bunch more that's yet to grace the farm. There are plenty of animals including fan requests like the Fjord Horse and the interesting Komodo. (What's an Indonesian reptile doing on a farm anyway?) But what's most interesting is the Ski Resort, which was not featured in yesterday's showcase. While the Ski Shop was merely a decorative building, I still have hope that this one in particular will hold some sort of function. Keep your fingers crossed.
Andean Bear Komodo Blue Duck Dall Sheep
Rounding out the list of items that may be released are the adult Prz Horse, the Andean Bear (this must be the bear cub we noticed in the video posted yesterday), a Dall Sheep and a Blue Duck. Could that last addition be a reference to a classic 90s movie, perhaps? Stay tuned for when these items possibly release next week.
And just when we all thought FarmVille's Winter Wonderland Theme had ended with the most recent edition of FarmVille Showcase yesterday, FarmVille Freak has found a bunch more that's yet to grace the farm. There are plenty of animals including fan requests like the Fjord Horse and the interesting Komodo. (What's an Indonesian reptile doing on a farm anyway?) But what's most interesting is the Ski Resort, which was not featured in yesterday's showcase. While the Ski Shop was merely a decorative building, I still have hope that this one in particular will hold some sort of function. Keep your fingers crossed.
Andean Bear Komodo Blue Duck Dall Sheep
Rounding out the list of items that may be released are the adult Prz Horse, the Andean Bear (this must be the bear cub we noticed in the video posted yesterday), a Dall Sheep and a Blue Duck. Could that last addition be a reference to a classic 90s movie, perhaps? Stay tuned for when these items possibly release next week.
Thứ Bảy, 7 tháng 1, 2012
FarmVille Valentines Countdown: Everything you need to know
A Valentine's Day Countdown has started tonight in FarmVille, bringing one new special gift each day for lucky players who log in. We have the full guide so if you're not sure how to get all of these items or if you want to know what the prizes are, read ahead! Every day for the next 12 days there will be one special item that you can receive from your friends.
To access the Valentine's Day countdown, log into FarmVille and the game screen should automatically popup. If it doesn't, click on the heart with arrow icon along the right side of your screen. You will then see that day's particular gift, and a button that allows you to "Ask/Share" in order to get that gift. You'll notice that there are 12 days total, but days that haven't been released yet will have a pink question mark instead of the revealed gift. If you are too late, you'll have the option to buy the previous day's gift with Farm Cash.
FarmVille Valentines Countdown
Clicking on the green Ask/Share button will bring up a prompt to post on your wall asking for the gift. If a friend clicks on the post in time, not only will you receive that day's gift but your friend will also get one too. This means you have the option of receiving multiple gifts if you click on more than one friend's wall post.
FarmVille Valentines Countdown
If you manage to collect all 12 of the items, you will unlock a special grand prize. You can also pay 51 Farm Cash to automatically complete the collection and get the special prize - but that isn't much fun, is it? If you do that, one of each item that you don't already have will be delivered to your gift box along with the bonus prize.
The Prizes (Spoiler Warning)
Day 1: FarmVille I Love You Stand
Day 2: FarmVille I Love You Sign
Day 3: FarmVille XOXO Sign
Day 4: FarmVille Purple Hay Bale
Day 5: FarmVille Heart Bear
Day 6: FarmVille Caramel Bear
Day 7: FarmVille Fuchsia Greenery
Day 8: FarmVille Pink Greenery
Day 9: FarmVille Provencal Pot
Day 10: FarmVille Fancy Topiary
Day 11: FarmVille Flax Plant
Day 12: FarmVille Dogwood Tree
Bonus Prize: FarmVille Purple Valentine's Cow
FarmVille Purple Valentines Cow
Check out the rest of our Valentine's Day 2011 coverage right here.
To access the Valentine's Day countdown, log into FarmVille and the game screen should automatically popup. If it doesn't, click on the heart with arrow icon along the right side of your screen. You will then see that day's particular gift, and a button that allows you to "Ask/Share" in order to get that gift. You'll notice that there are 12 days total, but days that haven't been released yet will have a pink question mark instead of the revealed gift. If you are too late, you'll have the option to buy the previous day's gift with Farm Cash.
FarmVille Valentines Countdown
Clicking on the green Ask/Share button will bring up a prompt to post on your wall asking for the gift. If a friend clicks on the post in time, not only will you receive that day's gift but your friend will also get one too. This means you have the option of receiving multiple gifts if you click on more than one friend's wall post.
FarmVille Valentines Countdown
If you manage to collect all 12 of the items, you will unlock a special grand prize. You can also pay 51 Farm Cash to automatically complete the collection and get the special prize - but that isn't much fun, is it? If you do that, one of each item that you don't already have will be delivered to your gift box along with the bonus prize.
The Prizes (Spoiler Warning)
Day 1: FarmVille I Love You Stand
Day 2: FarmVille I Love You Sign
Day 3: FarmVille XOXO Sign
Day 4: FarmVille Purple Hay Bale
Day 5: FarmVille Heart Bear
Day 6: FarmVille Caramel Bear
Day 7: FarmVille Fuchsia Greenery
Day 8: FarmVille Pink Greenery
Day 9: FarmVille Provencal Pot
Day 10: FarmVille Fancy Topiary
Day 11: FarmVille Flax Plant
Day 12: FarmVille Dogwood Tree
Bonus Prize: FarmVille Purple Valentine's Cow
FarmVille Purple Valentines Cow
Check out the rest of our Valentine's Day 2011 coverage right here.
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Unreleased Willow Hearts Tree
Tonight's big FarmVille update has brought of slew of new unreleased items that we have the exclusive information on to share with you. As you can see, the image on the right is the Willow Hearts Tree, an obvious Valentine's Day addition to the game.
While animated, this tree 'sheds' hearts which slowly float to the ground. Otherwise, it is similar in art style to the Willow Tree that has already been in the game. FarmVille appears to be taking the purple color very seriously throughout this holiday. Despite being purple, we do not believe the Willow Hearts Tree is a reward in the 12-day Valentine's Countdown.
As usual, we do not know for sure if this tree will make it into the game for sure, but we have a pretty good idea that it will. The Willow Hearts tree could be a new reward from the Mystery Seedlings, or it might be something else entirely. Time will tell!
Check out the rest of our Valentine's Day 2011 coverage right here.
While animated, this tree 'sheds' hearts which slowly float to the ground. Otherwise, it is similar in art style to the Willow Tree that has already been in the game. FarmVille appears to be taking the purple color very seriously throughout this holiday. Despite being purple, we do not believe the Willow Hearts Tree is a reward in the 12-day Valentine's Countdown.
As usual, we do not know for sure if this tree will make it into the game for sure, but we have a pretty good idea that it will. The Willow Hearts tree could be a new reward from the Mystery Seedlings, or it might be something else entirely. Time will tell!
Check out the rest of our Valentine's Day 2011 coverage right here.
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Unreleased Grey Prz Horse and Foal
A new pair of precious prancing ponies have turned up under our watchful eye tonight, and we have the scoop on the new FarmVille Grey Prz Horse and Foal. These two adorable slightly spotted horses have wandered into our game clients a bit early, so we wanted to share them with you.
The Prz horse is actually short for the Przwalzki's Horse, a wild breed of horse from Asia. Interestingly enough, the Prz horse actually doesn't come in the grey color or with spots. It always dun (or light brown with black mane and tail) and often has zebra stripes on its legs. Last month, we actually saw a true looking Przwalski's Horse in the game so now we are wondering if this one is mislabeled. It could be that FarmVille doesn't care too much to be true to the breed, but generally Zynga is pretty good about making sure things line up correctly and don't seem inaccurate.
As usual, this doesn't mean that the Grey Prz Horse and Foal will be making it to the game for certain.
The Prz horse is actually short for the Przwalzki's Horse, a wild breed of horse from Asia. Interestingly enough, the Prz horse actually doesn't come in the grey color or with spots. It always dun (or light brown with black mane and tail) and often has zebra stripes on its legs. Last month, we actually saw a true looking Przwalski's Horse in the game so now we are wondering if this one is mislabeled. It could be that FarmVille doesn't care too much to be true to the breed, but generally Zynga is pretty good about making sure things line up correctly and don't seem inaccurate.
As usual, this doesn't mean that the Grey Prz Horse and Foal will be making it to the game for certain.
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Unreleased Red Gypsy Horse and Foal
In addition to the Grey Prz Horse and Foal that snuck out of their pasture earlier, we have also spotted this beautiful Red Gypsy Horse and Red Gypsy Foal in FarmVille this evening. This horse is identical in shape and model as the winter Gypsy Horse that was released over the holiday, except it has a unique coloring that we haven't seen before.
It's possible due to the firey mane and tail that this Red Gypsy Horse will be a Valentine's Day horse that we will see in yet another Valentines themed release. It's not actually based on a real breed of horse - though there is a Gypsy Horse breed, it doesn't come close in color to this exotic combination of black and red. We think this neat looking horse and foal will look pretty stunning on a Valentine's themed farm though!
What do you think of the Red Gypsy Horse? Pretty, or a little too far-fetched?
It's possible due to the firey mane and tail that this Red Gypsy Horse will be a Valentine's Day horse that we will see in yet another Valentines themed release. It's not actually based on a real breed of horse - though there is a Gypsy Horse breed, it doesn't come close in color to this exotic combination of black and red. We think this neat looking horse and foal will look pretty stunning on a Valentine's themed farm though!
What do you think of the Red Gypsy Horse? Pretty, or a little too far-fetched?
Game of the Day: Word Roundup Challenge
The game of the day asks you to get your spelling hat on. Word Roundup Challenge combines the challenge of a crossword with the quick-hit speed of a word search game. It packs an extra shot of word-finding fun that will sharpen your wits!
Click here to play Word Roundup Challenge.
Important side note: Just by playing The Game of the Day you will be entered into a monthly drawing to win a FlipCam HD. You don't need to do anything else, just play! The more you play, the more chances you have to win. For more information on the Game of Day check out the official Game of the Day hub.
Click here to play Word Roundup Challenge.
Important side note: Just by playing The Game of the Day you will be entered into a monthly drawing to win a FlipCam HD. You don't need to do anything else, just play! The more you play, the more chances you have to win. For more information on the Game of Day check out the official Game of the Day hub.
Thứ Sáu, 6 tháng 1, 2012
FrontierVille Sneak Peek: Fanny and Bess Mystery Crates
The war between Fanny and Bess continues regardless of whether you set them up during the Valentine's Day Goals (a little flirtatious rivalry, perhaps?). FrontierVille Info has found two new Mystery Crates that are on their way to FrontierVille revolving all around our two favorite ladies, Bess and Fanny. It's unknown when exactly these Crates will be released or whether they're slowly rolling out already, but according to FrontierV, they will cost between 30 and 35 Horseshoes.
Bess Collection
The Bess and Fanny Collections each have a chance of dropping one of four items, which are essentially mirrors of one another. The Bess Collection includes a White Rabbit, Bess' Horse, Bess' Wagon and Bess' Outhouse.
Fanny Collection
If you hadn't noticed already, each Collection takes on the general theme of its character pretty heavily. The Bess Collection is largely red and orange-colored, while the Fanny Collection takes on blue and black almost exclusively. Fanny's items include a Black Raven, Fanny's Horse, Fanny's Wagon and Fanny's Outhouse. According to FrontierV, these items will be available for purchase through March 28, so I'd say these Crates are en route as of this writing.
[Image Credit: FrontierV]
Do you plan on buying either of these Mystery Crates? Which do you prefer more, and why?
Bess Collection
The Bess and Fanny Collections each have a chance of dropping one of four items, which are essentially mirrors of one another. The Bess Collection includes a White Rabbit, Bess' Horse, Bess' Wagon and Bess' Outhouse.
Fanny Collection
If you hadn't noticed already, each Collection takes on the general theme of its character pretty heavily. The Bess Collection is largely red and orange-colored, while the Fanny Collection takes on blue and black almost exclusively. Fanny's items include a Black Raven, Fanny's Horse, Fanny's Wagon and Fanny's Outhouse. According to FrontierV, these items will be available for purchase through March 28, so I'd say these Crates are en route as of this writing.
[Image Credit: FrontierV]
Do you plan on buying either of these Mystery Crates? Which do you prefer more, and why?
FarmVille Model Farm goes green with St. Patrick's Day items
As useless as it may be, the Model Farm presses on in FarmVille, and has been updated in time for St. Patty's Day this Thursday. Items in this edition of the Model Farm include some new additions that were just introduced to the game last night like the Irish Hare, Irish Cob Horse, Leprechaun Girl Gnome and more. Of course, all of the items here are available for either Farm Cash or an exorbitant amount of coins, though you do receive that random bonus for visiting. Taking a peek won't hurt anybody, right?
[Via FarmVille Freak]
Find the rest of our St. Patrick's Day Coverage right here.
Do you visit the Model Farm daily for the bonus? Have you ever purchased anything from there?
[Via FarmVille Freak]
Find the rest of our St. Patrick's Day Coverage right here.
Do you visit the Model Farm daily for the bonus? Have you ever purchased anything from there?
Rumor: FrontierVille 37x37 Land Expansion is rolling out to pioneers
Land Grab!
Despite the Goals leaking early and our prediction of a March 1 release date, the 37x37 Land Expansion in FrontierVille has been MIA for six weeks now. However, according to FrontierVille Info, several players have reported that the expansion has arrived on their homesteads. If true, the expansion is coming in the midst of a Coyote invasion, but we have (almost) everything you need to know right here. So, don't come crying to us that you don't know what to do and get to expandin'.
Have you seen the 37x37 expansion on your homestead yet? When it finally launches, do you plan to take it head on or are you too busy fending off hungry Coyotes?
Despite the Goals leaking early and our prediction of a March 1 release date, the 37x37 Land Expansion in FrontierVille has been MIA for six weeks now. However, according to FrontierVille Info, several players have reported that the expansion has arrived on their homesteads. If true, the expansion is coming in the midst of a Coyote invasion, but we have (almost) everything you need to know right here. So, don't come crying to us that you don't know what to do and get to expandin'.
Have you seen the 37x37 expansion on your homestead yet? When it finally launches, do you plan to take it head on or are you too busy fending off hungry Coyotes?
Quote of the Moment: 'Zynga can't just throw FarmVille onto mobile'
Angry Birds Facebook
You can't take an experience that works in one environment and one ecosystem and force-feed it onto another. It's like Zynga. They can't just take Farmville and throw it on mobile and see what sticks. The titles that have been successful for them on mobile are the ones they've built from the ground up for the platform.
Peter Vesterbacka of Rovio said this in an interview with Inside Social Games regarding Angry Birds' big move to Facebook. The (filthy rich) Angry Birds' "Mighty Eagle" also revealed that the Facebook version has been in the works for an entire year. This goes to show how seriously the company is taking the move in comparison to most studios who crank out Facebook games in a fraction of that time. However, the prime reason behind Rovio's extended development for Angry Birds Facebook is adapting the same experience to a different platform. One can imagine this is a challenge from either end of the spectrum.
[Image Credit: Game N Train]
What do you think of Rovio's strategic approach to Facebook? Will they be successful on the platform?
You can't take an experience that works in one environment and one ecosystem and force-feed it onto another. It's like Zynga. They can't just take Farmville and throw it on mobile and see what sticks. The titles that have been successful for them on mobile are the ones they've built from the ground up for the platform.
Peter Vesterbacka of Rovio said this in an interview with Inside Social Games regarding Angry Birds' big move to Facebook. The (filthy rich) Angry Birds' "Mighty Eagle" also revealed that the Facebook version has been in the works for an entire year. This goes to show how seriously the company is taking the move in comparison to most studios who crank out Facebook games in a fraction of that time. However, the prime reason behind Rovio's extended development for Angry Birds Facebook is adapting the same experience to a different platform. One can imagine this is a challenge from either end of the spectrum.
[Image Credit: Game N Train]
What do you think of Rovio's strategic approach to Facebook? Will they be successful on the platform?
FrontierVille's same-sex marriages originally a 'bug'
Zynga's FrontierVille is the first Facebook game to include same sex marriages. In the Wild West themed game, you create an avatar and, soon after you start settling your piece of frontier property, you have the option to take on a virtual spouse -- which can be a man or a women.
While all this seems modern and open-minded (not to mention, follows a bigger trend in video games, such as The Sims and Dragon Age, that depict sex scenes with same-sex partners) -- turns out that the options for a same sex spouse was totally unintentional. Zynga Chief Game Designer and FrontierVille creator Brian Reynolds says the option to choose male or female was originally a 'bug.' Players seemed to like it, he says, so they just left it in. Since then, the number of same sex marriages in-game is triple that in the US. That piece of data might explain the Fanny n' Bess Valentine's Day mission that launched in February, where the goal was to form a love connection between two of the game's female characters.
Reynolds also says players respond well to the game's Facebook wall posts, which are filled with sexual innuendos like (which we've covered that in more detail here), "Justin visited neighbor homesteads and got wood!"
frontierville wall posts sexual innuendo
All of this sexy talk was part of Reynold's 'The New Frontier in Social Gaming' talk at this year's South By Southwest Interactive Conference in Austin, Texas, which was covered by Inside Social Games. Reynolds discussed the thinking behind the game, which -- while not the most popular Zynga game -- has set a new standard for social games. Big picture, that means people making games now face the challenge of adding tried-and-true game experiences, such as quests, story, characters, into the social experience of a Facebook game.
And, Reynolds says game makers should not to be afraid to push boundaries in order to elicit social interaction. "Friends don't want to know about what you've done in a game," he says, "they want to know something funny about you or something they can start a conversation with."
While all this seems modern and open-minded (not to mention, follows a bigger trend in video games, such as The Sims and Dragon Age, that depict sex scenes with same-sex partners) -- turns out that the options for a same sex spouse was totally unintentional. Zynga Chief Game Designer and FrontierVille creator Brian Reynolds says the option to choose male or female was originally a 'bug.' Players seemed to like it, he says, so they just left it in. Since then, the number of same sex marriages in-game is triple that in the US. That piece of data might explain the Fanny n' Bess Valentine's Day mission that launched in February, where the goal was to form a love connection between two of the game's female characters.
Reynolds also says players respond well to the game's Facebook wall posts, which are filled with sexual innuendos like (which we've covered that in more detail here), "Justin visited neighbor homesteads and got wood!"
frontierville wall posts sexual innuendo
All of this sexy talk was part of Reynold's 'The New Frontier in Social Gaming' talk at this year's South By Southwest Interactive Conference in Austin, Texas, which was covered by Inside Social Games. Reynolds discussed the thinking behind the game, which -- while not the most popular Zynga game -- has set a new standard for social games. Big picture, that means people making games now face the challenge of adding tried-and-true game experiences, such as quests, story, characters, into the social experience of a Facebook game.
And, Reynolds says game makers should not to be afraid to push boundaries in order to elicit social interaction. "Friends don't want to know about what you've done in a game," he says, "they want to know something funny about you or something they can start a conversation with."
Thứ Ba, 3 tháng 1, 2012
'Twas a very merry Angry Birds Christmas, with 6.5 million downloads
You could also say that a lot of folks scored some sweet gadgets this holiday season. Finnish game maker Rovio told AllThingsD that its ubiquitous Angry Birds game had been downloaded 6.5 million times on Christmas Day. (The website points out that this is nearly the estimated amount of smartphones activated over the holiday.) Yup, Angry Birds is still cool.
"We're really excited to have such a massive number of new people get acquainted with Angry Birds over the holidays--we have exciting new releases lined up for 2012, and can't wait to introduce them to the public," Rovio's Ville Heijari told AllThingsD. The 6.5 million mark combines all paid and free downloads of the three Angry Birds games, and across all platforms, we imagine.
According to AllThingsD, this more than triples Angry Birds' downloads for Christmas 2010. Surely, that's helped by an extra Angry Birds release, but we bet there are a number of reasons why the game's downloads skyrocketed this Christmas. Between air time on several commercials, their visages on every damned t-shirt in Hot Topic and appearances at major cultural events, Angry Birds exposure hit a fever pitch in 2011.
We're also wiling to bet that this is far from the end for the irate avian creatures. More, unique Angry Birds games are reportedly in the works for 2012, and we're still a ways off from that feature film. So, don't expect these furious, flightless (sort of) foul to go away anytime soon.
[Via VentureBeat]
Are you surprised at all by the amount of Angry Birds downloads on Christmas Day? What mobile games did you download on Christmas Day?
"We're really excited to have such a massive number of new people get acquainted with Angry Birds over the holidays--we have exciting new releases lined up for 2012, and can't wait to introduce them to the public," Rovio's Ville Heijari told AllThingsD. The 6.5 million mark combines all paid and free downloads of the three Angry Birds games, and across all platforms, we imagine.
According to AllThingsD, this more than triples Angry Birds' downloads for Christmas 2010. Surely, that's helped by an extra Angry Birds release, but we bet there are a number of reasons why the game's downloads skyrocketed this Christmas. Between air time on several commercials, their visages on every damned t-shirt in Hot Topic and appearances at major cultural events, Angry Birds exposure hit a fever pitch in 2011.
We're also wiling to bet that this is far from the end for the irate avian creatures. More, unique Angry Birds games are reportedly in the works for 2012, and we're still a ways off from that feature film. So, don't expect these furious, flightless (sort of) foul to go away anytime soon.
[Via VentureBeat]
Are you surprised at all by the amount of Angry Birds downloads on Christmas Day? What mobile games did you download on Christmas Day?
This family holds the world record for being Pokémon masters [Video]
And to think my unbridled, preteen love for all things Pokémon only made my parents regret buying me a Game Boy for Christmas. The Arnolds of Frankfort, Ill. have been included in the Guinness Book of World Records 2012 Gamer's Edition, earning the title "Largest Competitive Pokémon Videogame Family." The organization calls the Arnolds "the most prolific Pokémon playing family in the world."
They're not only the most prolific, but the Arnolds are the most successful family of Pokémon players, having competed globally in Pokémon tournaments. While Mother Arnold, Linda, often cheers from the sidelines, family patriarch Glenn battles with pocket monsters right alongside his three children. Glenn spurred the family tradition by helping his little ones get through the tougher parts of their games, ultimately fostering little Pokémon powerhouses.
In fact, Glenn says that he went head-to-head with his own son, David, in a tournament match before. But the Arnolds' other son, Ryan, admits that his sister Grace is probably the most skilled Pokémon player of them all. So what if this is a completely contrived category in order to fill the book with a unique set of record-holders. It makes for a fun story, right? Now, this (hopeful) future father has one goal: Foster the world's most deadly family of Halo players ... when they're of age, of course.
Do your kids still play Pokémon? Are you playing right along with them? If not, what games do you enjoy to play with the little ones?
They're not only the most prolific, but the Arnolds are the most successful family of Pokémon players, having competed globally in Pokémon tournaments. While Mother Arnold, Linda, often cheers from the sidelines, family patriarch Glenn battles with pocket monsters right alongside his three children. Glenn spurred the family tradition by helping his little ones get through the tougher parts of their games, ultimately fostering little Pokémon powerhouses.
In fact, Glenn says that he went head-to-head with his own son, David, in a tournament match before. But the Arnolds' other son, Ryan, admits that his sister Grace is probably the most skilled Pokémon player of them all. So what if this is a completely contrived category in order to fill the book with a unique set of record-holders. It makes for a fun story, right? Now, this (hopeful) future father has one goal: Foster the world's most deadly family of Halo players ... when they're of age, of course.
Do your kids still play Pokémon? Are you playing right along with them? If not, what games do you enjoy to play with the little ones?
Nintendo sold 4 million 3DS systems in 2011, or 12 million dimensions
That's a lot of glasses-free, stereoscopic dimensions of gaming entertainment. Nintendo announced today that it had sold over 4 million units of its 3DS handheld gaming console last year, VentureBeat reports. Despite a terribly rocky start, the system sold more units in its first nine months than the ubiquitous Wii in its first nine months on the market, according to Nintendo.
The impressive sales are largely thanks to its $80 price cut last summer and system-selling games like Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7 hitting in the winter. In fact, both Mario games have sold 1 million copies apiece since their late 2011 releases. (The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword also sold a million discs since its November release.) So much for suspicions of the handheld being dead in the water, huh?
While the 3DS has clearly proven that it can hang in the world of iPhones and Android tablets offering sometimes fully-featured games for a buck or less, the handheld needs to repeat these successes in order to maintain. This is especially so considering Sony is gearing up to release its PS Vita in Western world this February. However, Japanese sales of the $250 competitor haven't exactly been mind-blowing.
According to VentureBeat, Nintendo of America executive VP of sales and marketing Scott Moffitt said that the company has a plenty of first and third-party games coming in early 2012, including Mario Party and Pokemon games. And since the company firmly refuses to create games for smartphones or tablets, it's definitely going to need that type of momentum.
Do you own or do your kids own a 3DS? Do you see the handheld system doing well into 2012 as the new crop of Apple and Android devices are released?
The impressive sales are largely thanks to its $80 price cut last summer and system-selling games like Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7 hitting in the winter. In fact, both Mario games have sold 1 million copies apiece since their late 2011 releases. (The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword also sold a million discs since its November release.) So much for suspicions of the handheld being dead in the water, huh?
While the 3DS has clearly proven that it can hang in the world of iPhones and Android tablets offering sometimes fully-featured games for a buck or less, the handheld needs to repeat these successes in order to maintain. This is especially so considering Sony is gearing up to release its PS Vita in Western world this February. However, Japanese sales of the $250 competitor haven't exactly been mind-blowing.
According to VentureBeat, Nintendo of America executive VP of sales and marketing Scott Moffitt said that the company has a plenty of first and third-party games coming in early 2012, including Mario Party and Pokemon games. And since the company firmly refuses to create games for smartphones or tablets, it's definitely going to need that type of momentum.
Do you own or do your kids own a 3DS? Do you see the handheld system doing well into 2012 as the new crop of Apple and Android devices are released?
Nintendo's Wii U will have an app store (just like the iPad?) [Report]
If the early comparisons between Apple's tablet and the upcoming Nintendo console were unfounded before, the next rumor surrounding the Wii U might all but confirm them. That is, if it turns out to be true. The Daily reports, citing a nameless source, that Nintendo's successor to the wildly successful Wii console will have an app store. So, how is that different from now?
According to The Daily, the app store in the Wii U will be different from the online shops offered within its existing 3DS and Wii consoles--the eShop and Wii Shop, respectively--in that it will provide more than just "light" apps. This app store will tout similar software to what players can download on, say, their Xbox 360, like MLB.TV (which is name-dropped specifically).
Furthermore, The Daily's source said that apps will be offered for use exclusively with the Wii U's 6.2-inch tablet-like controller. The Daily's Matt Hickey paints a picture of players checking their email, browsing the web and later getting some games in on the controller. However, it's unknown whether this supposed app store will sell its software using a points system or otherwise.
What we do know for sure about the mysterious Wii U is that it will be social. Perhaps this means that players will be able to access services like Twitter, Facebook and Google+ using dedicated apps downloaded from this app store. We'll see at E3 2012.
[Via IndustryGamers]
Do you think it would be smart/cool if the Wii U had an app store similar to Apple's? If it does, what apps would you say are must-haves?
According to The Daily, the app store in the Wii U will be different from the online shops offered within its existing 3DS and Wii consoles--the eShop and Wii Shop, respectively--in that it will provide more than just "light" apps. This app store will tout similar software to what players can download on, say, their Xbox 360, like MLB.TV (which is name-dropped specifically).
Furthermore, The Daily's source said that apps will be offered for use exclusively with the Wii U's 6.2-inch tablet-like controller. The Daily's Matt Hickey paints a picture of players checking their email, browsing the web and later getting some games in on the controller. However, it's unknown whether this supposed app store will sell its software using a points system or otherwise.
What we do know for sure about the mysterious Wii U is that it will be social. Perhaps this means that players will be able to access services like Twitter, Facebook and Google+ using dedicated apps downloaded from this app store. We'll see at E3 2012.
[Via IndustryGamers]
Do you think it would be smart/cool if the Wii U had an app store similar to Apple's? If it does, what apps would you say are must-haves?
CastleVille passes FarmVille to become second biggest game on Facebook
Watch out CityVille, there's another contender coming for your title as top Facebook game! Luckily, this new kid on the block is in the same staple, as Zynga can lay claim to both CityVille and rising star CastleVille. According to the latest stats on AppData, CastleVille has rocketed to 37 million monthly active players, passing FarmVille with its almost 34 million players to become the second most played game (currently) on Facebook.
But wait - where's EA / Playfish's the Sims Social? The game still sits as the number five game on the service, but it has lost players (around 1.7 million) even since we threw out some advice that Playfish should try to help the game climb back up the ranks. And that was just a week ago!
Either way, does CastleVille have what it takes to finally topple CityVille as the number one game on Facebook? It still has 12.5 million more players to go (and that's if CityVille does nothing but lose between now and then). Still, it will be interesting to watch as the competition develops further (or doesn't) between these two games, and you can be sure that we'll let you know if Facebook finally receives a new king to the castle if and when that does happen.
Do you think CastleVille can take over the number one game spot on Facebook, or is CityVille still too mighty a beast to defeat?
But wait - where's EA / Playfish's the Sims Social? The game still sits as the number five game on the service, but it has lost players (around 1.7 million) even since we threw out some advice that Playfish should try to help the game climb back up the ranks. And that was just a week ago!
Either way, does CastleVille have what it takes to finally topple CityVille as the number one game on Facebook? It still has 12.5 million more players to go (and that's if CityVille does nothing but lose between now and then). Still, it will be interesting to watch as the competition develops further (or doesn't) between these two games, and you can be sure that we'll let you know if Facebook finally receives a new king to the castle if and when that does happen.
Do you think CastleVille can take over the number one game spot on Facebook, or is CityVille still too mighty a beast to defeat?
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