Welcome to YoVille Jobs
Platinum Ninja has posted on YoVille.com announcing that New Jobs to earn more coins and have more fun will be in operation very soon. There are different jobs, you can be a Party Entertainer, Pet Rescuer, Ghost Hunter, and many more! Read Platinum Ninja's Official Blog post below:
Hey Everyone,
For a long time we've received tons of feedback from all of you about a few major things.
1. You want to earn more coins.
2. You want more job options and choices surrounding how you earn coins.
3. You want earning coins to be fun.
We want you to know that we've listened to this feedback and we'll be introducing new jobs to everyone in YoVille very soon! These jobs will provide new fun things to do in YoVille, give you an option to choose how you want to earn your coins, and give you a chance to find rare items in game! The more you play jobs the more you will level up, unlock new jobs, earn more money, and earn rare items!
Overall this feature is going to bring you more items, more coins and more fun! We're adding tons of different jobs in YoVille. Come play and discover your dream job in YoVille! Become a Party Entertainer, Pet Rescuer, Ghost Hunter and many more. Try out the new Jobs Game and discover your favorite!
Let's check out how this feature is going to work. First, let's go over a few changes to your screen and icons:) You'll now have a Job Briefcase, Energy Backpack and an Energy Bar. The Briefcase will be found at the bottom, left hand side of the screen and will be your starting point for all the jobs you want to complete! Click here when you are ready to start collecting all your coins, YP and awesome rare items!
YoVille Do Jobs icon
The Energy Bar and Backpack are located at the top of the screen. The Energy Bar will keep track of your current level of energy. The Energy Backpack icon will allow you to access energy that you have collected and give you the option to use this energy or buy more.
YoVille Energy Pack
It takes Energy to complete Jobs and or work at the Widget Factory. This means that you will get to choose how you want to earn your coins. You can either complete exciting new Jobs, or if you're short on time you can still clock in at the Widget Factory.
You will need 100% energy to be able to work at the factory. Your Energy automatically replenishes to 100% every 5 hours. If you choose to work at the Widget Factory you will be able to do so every 5 hours. This is a recent change from the 6 hour wait period that you used to have at the Widget Factory.
How do I do a Job?
Click on the Briefcase icon at the bottom of the screen. You will then be given a choice of several different and exciting jobs to try. You can have fun being a Party Entertainer, Animal Rescuer, and Ghost Hunter. Give them all a try and discover you favorite! By completing Jobs and mastering Job Categories you will unlock move jobs, earn lots of coins and pick up rare items along the way!
Some days you may want to mix and match these options. If you're rushed in the morning and you just want to make sure you get some coins, head over to the Widget Factory and collect your standard pay. If you have a little time for fun, make sure you try out a new Job! On average the new Jobs will allow you to earn a lot more coins than the factory. You'll also pick up rare items that are only available in jobs, and unlock new jobs as you complete them and level up. Higher level jobs earn higher amounts of coins.
Let's check out some of the basics of the Jobs Game!
YoVille Choose Job Category
When you choose a Job you will be taken to the Job Locations. This may be in an alleyway, a YoVille Party or even a Haunted House! There will be a key mission in your job that you must complete. For example let's check out the Ghost Hunter Job – Creepy Keepsake.
YoVille Creepy Keepsake
In this job, your mission is to find all 9 statues. Once you choose to do this job, you'll be taken to a Haunted House full of ghosts! You will then need to click on all of the ghosts to bust them. Busting the ghosts will give you awesome prizes, coins and YP while you search for the statues. After you are done clicking on all of the ghosts in a room you will see footsteps that lead you to the next room full of ghosts. Once you find all 9 statues your job will be completed and you will be rewarded!
*Hint* You'll see hints along the way to help you find the statues faster. Also when you collect them all you will get an extra coin reward, so be sure to complete your jobs.
YoVille Job Finished
Tips for completing Jobs:
Clicking on ghosts is fun, but it also takes your Energy. You use 6 Energy for every ghost you bust.
YoVille Ghosts
Remember to pick up all the coins, YP and prizes that the ghosts leave behind. You'll find lots of rewards to pick up so make sure to not forget anything!
YoVille Job PrizesYoVille Prize Really Close!
You'll see hints along the way to help you find the statues. Follow the hints to complete the job faster.
How do I receive Energy?
YoVille ExpressoThere are multiple ways to receive energy. Your Energy Bar automatically replenishes to 100% every 5 hours. Check the timer below your Energy Bar if you want to know when to expect more.
You'll also collect Energy Drinks while completing jobs. It will be a large Energy Drink that will appear after clicking on the ghost, so make sure to click on it. Each Energy Drink will give you some extra energy so try to collect as many as you can!
If you need energy fast you can purchase 100% energy by clicking on the Energy Backpack and then Energy Refill. This will be an extra way to get that energy refill fast if you are itching to get to that next job! If you're not in a hurry, you can always wait for you energy to replenish for free.
Soon you will be able to collect Energy Drinks from your friends through Special Energy Feeds! We're also working on adding Energy Drinks as Free Gifts to send to your friends and ask your friends to send to you.
Well that's about all folks! We'll be testing this with some players before releasing it to everyone, so if you don't have it yet you will be getting it very soon. Congrats to all of the Party House Contest Winners again! Many of you will be seeing your homes showcased in the Jobs Game under the Party Entertainer. =)
We also want to say a huge thank you to the small team of players who have already helped test the new Jobs. They've spent a lot of time testing, sending feedback, and reporting bugs so that our team could make fixes before we release this. You guys have been awesome and we appreciate your help!
Thanks,
Platinum Ninja
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
Thứ Tư, 15 tháng 2, 2012
FarmVille: Unreleased Tiki Hot Pink Flamingo, Orange Azelea, Pink Azelea, & Floral Container
Perhaps, these could be some future Island themed FarmVille decorations. What do you think?
Thank you to FarmVille Freak Martijn for finding these unreleased FarmVille Orange Azelea & Pink Azelea.
Sources:
FarmVille Unreleased Tiki Hot Pink Flamingo – Zynga FarmVille
FarmVille Unreleased Orange Azelea – Zynga FarmVille
FarmVille Unreleased Pink Azelea – Zynga FarmVille
FarmVille Unreleased Floral Container – Zynga FarmVille
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Thank you to FarmVille Freak Martijn for finding these unreleased FarmVille Orange Azelea & Pink Azelea.
Sources:
FarmVille Unreleased Tiki Hot Pink Flamingo – Zynga FarmVille
FarmVille Unreleased Orange Azelea – Zynga FarmVille
FarmVille Unreleased Pink Azelea – Zynga FarmVille
FarmVille Unreleased Floral Container – Zynga FarmVille
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Oh noes! FrontierVille riddled with stability problems post-launch
FrontierVille is, arguably, one of the most ambitious Zynga games to date and after the Wild West-themed game's launch yesterday, it's been suffering some serious setbacks. For the past 12 hours, we've essentially been locked out of the game -- either it won't load at all or we get stuck on the loading screen.
We've contacted Zynga to get an update on when the pioneering game will be back in action, and in the meantime, we'll just have to kick back in the chuck wagon with a jug of moonshine.
Have you had problems playing FrontierVille since launch?
We've contacted Zynga to get an update on when the pioneering game will be back in action, and in the meantime, we'll just have to kick back in the chuck wagon with a jug of moonshine.
Have you had problems playing FrontierVille since launch?
FarmVille Rotatable Buildings Coming Soon?
FarmVille Tuscany Villa rotated
FarmVille Freak Martijn shared with us some exciting news concerning the ability to rotate buildings in FarmVille. One of the most common complaints about decorations and buildings is that they are "as is" and you cannot rotate them to fit your farm's design.
The good news is that Zynga already announced via an official Podcast that more rotations would be "coming soon". We all know that "coming soon" could mean days, weeks, or months in FarmVille, but FarmVille Freak Martijn may have found some proof of upcoming rotation improvements supporting that it may be very soon indeed.
FarmVille Freak Martijn has been a long-time FarmVille Freak and started his own FaceBook fan page that is dedicated to finding unreleased FarmVille items and features. You can check him out on FaceBook here: FarmVille Code Hunters aka The Men Who Stare at Codes
FarmVille Tuscany Castle and Tiki Giant Hut rotated
"One of the most anticipated features still to come in Farmville is on it's way! Just recently Lexilicious mentioned in a podcast that we will soon have the ability to rotate our buildings.
Today we found proof that the artistic development team made some progress towards this feature. Recent additions to the long list of buildings have all been now equipped with a left and a right side view. A Little disappointment here, they're not really rotated, but rather mirrored.
We've taken the liberty to extract these images from the server files to show you some proof. So far, the first release of Tiki buildings and the last release of Tuscany buildings were found to have a left and right side view. No animated buildings that have this ability have been found yet.
Look closely to the shadows on most of the buildings to see that these are really all seperate images. (The Tuscany church is the only one that shows no difference at all but there are indeed two images hidden in the gamefiles and the Tikibar still only has one viewing angle)
There is no telling at this point when this feature will be available in the game. The artistic team has a long way ahead of itself, seeing that there are a lot of buildings already available in the game." – FarmVille Freak Martijn
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
FarmVille Freak Martijn shared with us some exciting news concerning the ability to rotate buildings in FarmVille. One of the most common complaints about decorations and buildings is that they are "as is" and you cannot rotate them to fit your farm's design.
The good news is that Zynga already announced via an official Podcast that more rotations would be "coming soon". We all know that "coming soon" could mean days, weeks, or months in FarmVille, but FarmVille Freak Martijn may have found some proof of upcoming rotation improvements supporting that it may be very soon indeed.
FarmVille Freak Martijn has been a long-time FarmVille Freak and started his own FaceBook fan page that is dedicated to finding unreleased FarmVille items and features. You can check him out on FaceBook here: FarmVille Code Hunters aka The Men Who Stare at Codes
FarmVille Tuscany Castle and Tiki Giant Hut rotated
"One of the most anticipated features still to come in Farmville is on it's way! Just recently Lexilicious mentioned in a podcast that we will soon have the ability to rotate our buildings.
Today we found proof that the artistic development team made some progress towards this feature. Recent additions to the long list of buildings have all been now equipped with a left and a right side view. A Little disappointment here, they're not really rotated, but rather mirrored.
We've taken the liberty to extract these images from the server files to show you some proof. So far, the first release of Tiki buildings and the last release of Tuscany buildings were found to have a left and right side view. No animated buildings that have this ability have been found yet.
Look closely to the shadows on most of the buildings to see that these are really all seperate images. (The Tuscany church is the only one that shows no difference at all but there are indeed two images hidden in the gamefiles and the Tikibar still only has one viewing angle)
There is no telling at this point when this feature will be available in the game. The artistic team has a long way ahead of itself, seeing that there are a lot of buildings already available in the game." – FarmVille Freak Martijn
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Playdom localizing games for four European languages
In my limited experience traveling around Europe, I've found most everyone knew at least some English. Then again, I've mostly stuck to the tourist areas of Barcelona and Paris thus far, so the preference for English as an international lingua franca is perhaps not that surprising.
Anyway, social gaming mega-publisher Playdom is no longer content shutting out the billions of potential non-English-speaking players that I assume exist outside the touristy parts of Europe. Today, the company behind Social City, Tiki Resort and Wild Ones announced they'll be translating their "top social games" into French, Italian, German and Spanish.
The first game to get the translation treatment will be soccer management sim Bola, which is already finding some success in its English-only Facebook beta test. This seems like a no-brainer with interest in the World Cup reaching a fever pitch around the world -- even the parts that don't speak English... wherever they are.
Anyway, social gaming mega-publisher Playdom is no longer content shutting out the billions of potential non-English-speaking players that I assume exist outside the touristy parts of Europe. Today, the company behind Social City, Tiki Resort and Wild Ones announced they'll be translating their "top social games" into French, Italian, German and Spanish.
The first game to get the translation treatment will be soccer management sim Bola, which is already finding some success in its English-only Facebook beta test. This seems like a no-brainer with interest in the World Cup reaching a fever pitch around the world -- even the parts that don't speak English... wherever they are.
Thứ Bảy, 11 tháng 2, 2012
YoVille pool party kitchen appliances are now available!
Head on to the YoVille Furniture Store and brighten up your house with the NEW Pool Party Kitchen Appliances in Summery Raspberry, Orange, White, and Lime. Items include Islands, Counter Tops, Stoves, Cabinets, Refrigerators, and much more. Get your kitchen ready for Fun under the Sun Summer Parties! View the complete assortment with prices after the jump.
yoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliances
yoville pool party kitchen appliances
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
yoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliancesyoville pool party kitchen appliances
yoville pool party kitchen appliances
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
YoVille Room Contests Icon replaces Events Icon!
Platinum Ninja has posted on YoVille.com explaining the new Room Contest Game Feature. With this new feature you will be able to show off your YoVille room designs, compete, and win prizes!
Read her Official Blog after the jump.
Hey Guys,
Wanted to prepare you all for Room Contests that will be coming soon to YoVille! Let's go over how to be a part of this awesome feature before it goes live in game so you can get started on your rooms entries today! Just a heads up the theme of the next Room Contest is going to be "Best Pool Party". With this new feature you will be able to show off your coolest rooms, compete and win prizes, browse and vote for the Best Rooms in YoVille!
New Icon Changes
yoville room contest
yoville room contestBefore we dive into how to enter and browse other entries let's first go over the adjustments that have been made to our in game icons.You'll notice a brand new Room Contests Icon, that will replace the Events Icon, which will take you to the main Room Contest Page. Also, now that the Events Icon has been replaced we have moved the Events Icon to the right side of the page in between the Buddy List Icon and the Chat Icon.
To access the YoVille Contests Page click on theRibbon Room Contest Icon and the following YoVille Contests Page will appear. From here you will be able to see past winners, check out the current and upcoming contests, enter and browse entries. This icon will be your lifeline to YoVille Contests!! So make sure to check it out and investigate it when it is in game.
yoville room contest
*Please note these dates are subject to change and are for screenshot purposes only. We will usually give around a week per contest to collect entries*
How to Submit an Entry
Ready to be YoFamous and show off your rooms or win some prizes?? Of course!! That's what I thought!! Get working on your "Best Pool Party Room" today to get prepared for our first in game YoVille Room Contest.
Now that we have covered how to navigate let's check out how to submit an entry. Once you have designed your room to perfection go to the room that you want to enter then click on the Room Contests Ribbon Icon *You must be in the room that you want to enter while submitting* You will then be prompted with the main YoVille Contests page. Click "Enter" and you will be taken to the Rules and Prizes Page Please review the rules to make sure that your entry does not break any of the rules listed below. Once you have reviewed the rules and are ready to enter click "Submit Room"
yoville room contest
You'll then be shown a preview of your room to have you verify and confirm this is the correct room you want to enter. If so, go ahead and click "Yes"
yoville room contest
Yay!! Your submission was successful!! Make sure to check back daily to check out the success of your entry.
How to Check on Your Entry
After you have entered your room when you click on the Room Contest Ribbon Icon you will be presented with the main YoVille Contests Page.
yoville room contest
Click on the "Check Votes Button" and the following will appear and show you all of your comments, # of votes on your entry, and your next goal!
yoville room contest
How to Vote and Browse Entries
Want to get inspired or rate the best of YoVille? To browse entries click on the Room Contests Icon and you will be taken to the YoVille Contests Page and then click Browse Entries. From here you will be able to scroll through as many entries as you like and even vote for your favorites! Check out what is possible and you be the judge! While browsing you will also be able to vote for your favorites, comment on other entries,and report abuse.
yoville room contest
To vote for an entry simply click "Cast Vote" button on the entry. You will also be able to vote for your friends by keeping an eye out of "Vote for Me" Feeds. After you see a friend asking for more votes you can click "Check it Out" and you will be taken you to your friend's room. Remember that you only have 20 Votes per Day so make sure to make them count!! So use them sparingly and vote for the ones that best match the theme and catch your eye! *Please note that there be an option to gain some bonus votes the longer you play in game. We'll be rewarding you more votes the more time you stick around in YoVille*
Also, to check out the rooms that you have voted for click "Review Your Favorites" Tab while browsing other entries.
yoville room contest
How to Share Entry with Friends
After you submit an entry you can click "Check Your Room". From here you will receive the option and button to "Ask for Votes" which will allow you to post a Feed to your Friends that will direct them to vote for your specific room. Make sure to share to get your friends to come and vote for you!! Posting these feeds will be very helpful in getting more votes and showing off your room!
yoville room contest
Prizes
Now the part everyone has been waiting for! Here is a breakdown of the prizes the top winners will receive: 1st Place will receive 50 YoCash, 2nd Place will receive 40 YoCash and 3rd Place will receive 25 YoCash. Those top 3 players will also receive trophies for being a winner! We will be implementing Ribbons for players that reach certain Vote Goal as well in the near future. For instance if a player reaches X # Of Votes they will receive a X Ribbon. *However the first contest will not include these ribbons as we want to gauge the average votes for contests before releasing this part of the feature in game:)*
Well that's about all folks, make sure to get your rooms ready for entry as this feature will be kicking off very soon! Show off how cool your pool is and get your room in tip top shape.
Good Luck!
- Platinum Ninja
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
Read her Official Blog after the jump.
Hey Guys,
Wanted to prepare you all for Room Contests that will be coming soon to YoVille! Let's go over how to be a part of this awesome feature before it goes live in game so you can get started on your rooms entries today! Just a heads up the theme of the next Room Contest is going to be "Best Pool Party". With this new feature you will be able to show off your coolest rooms, compete and win prizes, browse and vote for the Best Rooms in YoVille!
New Icon Changes
yoville room contest
yoville room contestBefore we dive into how to enter and browse other entries let's first go over the adjustments that have been made to our in game icons.You'll notice a brand new Room Contests Icon, that will replace the Events Icon, which will take you to the main Room Contest Page. Also, now that the Events Icon has been replaced we have moved the Events Icon to the right side of the page in between the Buddy List Icon and the Chat Icon.
To access the YoVille Contests Page click on theRibbon Room Contest Icon and the following YoVille Contests Page will appear. From here you will be able to see past winners, check out the current and upcoming contests, enter and browse entries. This icon will be your lifeline to YoVille Contests!! So make sure to check it out and investigate it when it is in game.
yoville room contest
*Please note these dates are subject to change and are for screenshot purposes only. We will usually give around a week per contest to collect entries*
How to Submit an Entry
Ready to be YoFamous and show off your rooms or win some prizes?? Of course!! That's what I thought!! Get working on your "Best Pool Party Room" today to get prepared for our first in game YoVille Room Contest.
Now that we have covered how to navigate let's check out how to submit an entry. Once you have designed your room to perfection go to the room that you want to enter then click on the Room Contests Ribbon Icon *You must be in the room that you want to enter while submitting* You will then be prompted with the main YoVille Contests page. Click "Enter" and you will be taken to the Rules and Prizes Page Please review the rules to make sure that your entry does not break any of the rules listed below. Once you have reviewed the rules and are ready to enter click "Submit Room"
yoville room contest
You'll then be shown a preview of your room to have you verify and confirm this is the correct room you want to enter. If so, go ahead and click "Yes"
yoville room contest
Yay!! Your submission was successful!! Make sure to check back daily to check out the success of your entry.
How to Check on Your Entry
After you have entered your room when you click on the Room Contest Ribbon Icon you will be presented with the main YoVille Contests Page.
yoville room contest
Click on the "Check Votes Button" and the following will appear and show you all of your comments, # of votes on your entry, and your next goal!
yoville room contest
How to Vote and Browse Entries
Want to get inspired or rate the best of YoVille? To browse entries click on the Room Contests Icon and you will be taken to the YoVille Contests Page and then click Browse Entries. From here you will be able to scroll through as many entries as you like and even vote for your favorites! Check out what is possible and you be the judge! While browsing you will also be able to vote for your favorites, comment on other entries,and report abuse.
yoville room contest
To vote for an entry simply click "Cast Vote" button on the entry. You will also be able to vote for your friends by keeping an eye out of "Vote for Me" Feeds. After you see a friend asking for more votes you can click "Check it Out" and you will be taken you to your friend's room. Remember that you only have 20 Votes per Day so make sure to make them count!! So use them sparingly and vote for the ones that best match the theme and catch your eye! *Please note that there be an option to gain some bonus votes the longer you play in game. We'll be rewarding you more votes the more time you stick around in YoVille*
Also, to check out the rooms that you have voted for click "Review Your Favorites" Tab while browsing other entries.
yoville room contest
How to Share Entry with Friends
After you submit an entry you can click "Check Your Room". From here you will receive the option and button to "Ask for Votes" which will allow you to post a Feed to your Friends that will direct them to vote for your specific room. Make sure to share to get your friends to come and vote for you!! Posting these feeds will be very helpful in getting more votes and showing off your room!
yoville room contest
Prizes
Now the part everyone has been waiting for! Here is a breakdown of the prizes the top winners will receive: 1st Place will receive 50 YoCash, 2nd Place will receive 40 YoCash and 3rd Place will receive 25 YoCash. Those top 3 players will also receive trophies for being a winner! We will be implementing Ribbons for players that reach certain Vote Goal as well in the near future. For instance if a player reaches X # Of Votes they will receive a X Ribbon. *However the first contest will not include these ribbons as we want to gauge the average votes for contests before releasing this part of the feature in game:)*
Well that's about all folks, make sure to get your rooms ready for entry as this feature will be kicking off very soon! Show off how cool your pool is and get your room in tip top shape.
Good Luck!
- Platinum Ninja
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
YoVille: More summer clothes coming soon
An official YoVille update announced that new summer fashion is arriving soon to the Clothing Boutique. The update was accompanied with a couple of pictures that can be viewed after the jump.
The new pictures show that the update has more than clothes and apparently it will include headwear and accessories.
We'll keep you updated!
yoville summer clothesyoville summer clothes
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
Bookmark this site!
The new pictures show that the update has more than clothes and apparently it will include headwear and accessories.
We'll keep you updated!
yoville summer clothesyoville summer clothes
This article originally appeared on YoVille Lounge.
Bookmark this site!
Is FarmVille Coming Soon to Android?
After feeling left out and forgotten with the recent FarmVille iPhone collaboration that birthed exclusive virtual FarmVille items (see Snow Leopard) for iPhone's FarmVille application users, Android supporters finally have something to be happy about. FarmVille may be "coming soon" to Android!
Lots of naysayers said it couldn't be done with iPhone, Android, or any smart phone for that matter, yet the FarmVille application for iPhone was successfully released at the end of June.
So could FarmVille be coming soon to Android? Possibly! The URL www.farmvilleandroid.com was just recently registered by DNStination, which is the same registrant as FarmVille.com. As of yet there has been no official release made by Zynga or FarmVille, but this could be a good indicator of a future FarmVille and Android partnership. Worst case scenario, securing the FarmVilleAndroid.com domain name demonstrates FarmVille's interest in Android, even if it is just a placeholder for now.
It seems like a wise decision as there are many farmers who are non-iPhone users who would also love to have other options to satisfy their farming needs.
Would you like to see FarmVille available for Android?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Lots of naysayers said it couldn't be done with iPhone, Android, or any smart phone for that matter, yet the FarmVille application for iPhone was successfully released at the end of June.
So could FarmVille be coming soon to Android? Possibly! The URL www.farmvilleandroid.com was just recently registered by DNStination, which is the same registrant as FarmVille.com. As of yet there has been no official release made by Zynga or FarmVille, but this could be a good indicator of a future FarmVille and Android partnership. Worst case scenario, securing the FarmVilleAndroid.com domain name demonstrates FarmVille's interest in Android, even if it is just a placeholder for now.
It seems like a wise decision as there are many farmers who are non-iPhone users who would also love to have other options to satisfy their farming needs.
Would you like to see FarmVille available for Android?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
FarmVille's Formula for Land Expansion
Ever wonder how FarmVille calculates the cost of land expansion?
Well, with the latest 26x26 land expansion being rolled out and currently available as a limited release, lots of farmers are wondering how the 2 million coins price tag for 26x26 land expansion is validated . Please note, not all farmers have access to the 26x26 expansion at this point. More users will gain access over the next few days and eventually everyone will have the 26x26 available in their FarmVille Market.
A FarmVille Freak came up with the following equation that FarmVille seems to have used for past, current, and future land expansions. He shared his equation via the official FarmVille Forum.
"I've done the math, and the current price formula for expansions is ridiculous. I have determined this:
14x14 -- 52 New Plots = 10,000 coins | ~192 coins per new plot
16x16 -- 60 New Plots = 25,000 coins | ~417 coins per new plot
18x18 -- 68 New Plots = 50,000 coins | ~735 coins per new plot
20x20 -- 76 New Plots = 75,000 coins | ~987 coins per new plot
22x22 -- 84 New Plots = 250,000 coins | ~2,976 coins per new plot
24x24 -- 92 New Plots = 500,000 coins | ~5,435 coins per new plot
26x26 -- 100 New Plots = 2,000,000 coins | 20,000 coins per new plot" (Ben MKM)
More details on the 26x26 Land Expansion:
Can be purchased with 2 Million coins OR farm cash for 80 FV$.
The coin option will require you to add 5 new FarmVille neighbors, unless you already have the maximum of 300 neighbors allowed.
You must have a minimum of at least 35 FarmVille neighbors to purchase the expansion.
Land Expansion is currently in a limited release, meaning only a certain percentage of farmers have access. FarmVille will be "slowly rolling out" the expansion to all players over the next few days.
How do you feel about the latest FarmVille Expansion? Is it too much? Does it matter? Will you purchase as soon as possible?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Check out the rest of our FarmVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Well, with the latest 26x26 land expansion being rolled out and currently available as a limited release, lots of farmers are wondering how the 2 million coins price tag for 26x26 land expansion is validated . Please note, not all farmers have access to the 26x26 expansion at this point. More users will gain access over the next few days and eventually everyone will have the 26x26 available in their FarmVille Market.
A FarmVille Freak came up with the following equation that FarmVille seems to have used for past, current, and future land expansions. He shared his equation via the official FarmVille Forum.
"I've done the math, and the current price formula for expansions is ridiculous. I have determined this:
14x14 -- 52 New Plots = 10,000 coins | ~192 coins per new plot
16x16 -- 60 New Plots = 25,000 coins | ~417 coins per new plot
18x18 -- 68 New Plots = 50,000 coins | ~735 coins per new plot
20x20 -- 76 New Plots = 75,000 coins | ~987 coins per new plot
22x22 -- 84 New Plots = 250,000 coins | ~2,976 coins per new plot
24x24 -- 92 New Plots = 500,000 coins | ~5,435 coins per new plot
26x26 -- 100 New Plots = 2,000,000 coins | 20,000 coins per new plot" (Ben MKM)
More details on the 26x26 Land Expansion:
Can be purchased with 2 Million coins OR farm cash for 80 FV$.
The coin option will require you to add 5 new FarmVille neighbors, unless you already have the maximum of 300 neighbors allowed.
You must have a minimum of at least 35 FarmVille neighbors to purchase the expansion.
Land Expansion is currently in a limited release, meaning only a certain percentage of farmers have access. FarmVille will be "slowly rolling out" the expansion to all players over the next few days.
How do you feel about the latest FarmVille Expansion? Is it too much? Does it matter? Will you purchase as soon as possible?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Check out the rest of our FarmVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Cafe World: Latest free Cafe Cash links
Two links to free Cafe Cash showed up on Cafe World's official Facebook fanpage yesterday. You can log into Facebook and head over there to grab 'em, or click this link twice. Each click will get you 2 free Cafe Cash, for a total of 4, and that's the limit.
Cafe World: Earn 7 Free Cafe Cash in 3 New Promo Surveys
Cafe World free Cafe Cash promos: Coca-Cola, Bing, and Rizzoli & Isles
Did you hit Cafe World's links to 4 free Cafe Cash yet? If you want more, log into Facebook and head over to the Earn Café Cash tab for the 3 new deals under "Free activities" that can net you 7 free Cafe Cash.
These offers are being sponsored by Coca-Cola, Bing, and TNT's new crime drama, "Rizzoli & Isles".
All these surveys come with polls at the end, so you get to see how everyone else voted. Aside from the free Cafe Cash, seeing the votes is probably the most interesting part. Keep reading if you want previews of the surveys and voting results.
First up, is the Coca-Cola deal "Live Positively" campaign. It grants 3 Cafe Cash, so you'll want to get this out of the way the quickest.
This survey asks you five questions about whether you take steps to ensure that you and your child(ren) eat healthy and lead an active lifestyle. Of course, this assumes you have kids, which I certainly don't have, but I try to stay honest in these surveys, so I just substituted the choice with my younger brother.
Coca-Cola Drink Positively Cafe World results
It'd be great if somewhere in these questions, they allowed the choice of the Wii or a Dance Dance Revolution machine. Great indoor workouts minus the gym! Maybe we'll get a Kinect survey boasting itself as an option someday.
The Bing offer is basically a carbon copy of the one they used in Treasure Isle a month ago. Instead of vacation spots, they're going to have you choose to dine in or dine out. Then they want you to choose your dinner, and watch a short video demonstration showing how their search engine works. It's pretty blah stuff, but that's all you have to do to grab the cash. You don't have to join their Facebook page or anything else.
Cafe World Bing Survey: Dining In or Dining Out
Last, but not least, we've got TNT's Rizzoli & Isles. Participation in this one requires watching a TV promo trailer while answering 4 questions about how you feel about the show. Easy stuff with some interesting results.
Rizzoli and Isles Cafe World Question 1 Results
Vulcans can be great team members if they loosen their spine. Half-Vulcans are preferable. Helllloooo, Spock!
Rizzoli and Isles Cafe World Question 2 Results
I'd like to express my disapproval with 14% of the voters here. Also, I went with Biographies cause it was the only non-fiction option available.
Rizzoli and Isles Cafe World Question 3 Results
This is the closest these things will get to a trick question.
Rizzoli and Isles Cafe World Question 4 Results
I swear, lesbian slash fans will have a field day with this show! (And no, if you don't already know what that is, you probably don't want to learn now.)
Rizzoli & Isles Cafe World survey
And that's it! Hope you enjoyed the walkthrough.
Did you hit Cafe World's links to 4 free Cafe Cash yet? If you want more, log into Facebook and head over to the Earn Café Cash tab for the 3 new deals under "Free activities" that can net you 7 free Cafe Cash.
These offers are being sponsored by Coca-Cola, Bing, and TNT's new crime drama, "Rizzoli & Isles".
All these surveys come with polls at the end, so you get to see how everyone else voted. Aside from the free Cafe Cash, seeing the votes is probably the most interesting part. Keep reading if you want previews of the surveys and voting results.
First up, is the Coca-Cola deal "Live Positively" campaign. It grants 3 Cafe Cash, so you'll want to get this out of the way the quickest.
This survey asks you five questions about whether you take steps to ensure that you and your child(ren) eat healthy and lead an active lifestyle. Of course, this assumes you have kids, which I certainly don't have, but I try to stay honest in these surveys, so I just substituted the choice with my younger brother.
Coca-Cola Drink Positively Cafe World results
It'd be great if somewhere in these questions, they allowed the choice of the Wii or a Dance Dance Revolution machine. Great indoor workouts minus the gym! Maybe we'll get a Kinect survey boasting itself as an option someday.
The Bing offer is basically a carbon copy of the one they used in Treasure Isle a month ago. Instead of vacation spots, they're going to have you choose to dine in or dine out. Then they want you to choose your dinner, and watch a short video demonstration showing how their search engine works. It's pretty blah stuff, but that's all you have to do to grab the cash. You don't have to join their Facebook page or anything else.
Cafe World Bing Survey: Dining In or Dining Out
Last, but not least, we've got TNT's Rizzoli & Isles. Participation in this one requires watching a TV promo trailer while answering 4 questions about how you feel about the show. Easy stuff with some interesting results.
Rizzoli and Isles Cafe World Question 1 Results
Vulcans can be great team members if they loosen their spine. Half-Vulcans are preferable. Helllloooo, Spock!
Rizzoli and Isles Cafe World Question 2 Results
I'd like to express my disapproval with 14% of the voters here. Also, I went with Biographies cause it was the only non-fiction option available.
Rizzoli and Isles Cafe World Question 3 Results
This is the closest these things will get to a trick question.
Rizzoli and Isles Cafe World Question 4 Results
I swear, lesbian slash fans will have a field day with this show! (And no, if you don't already know what that is, you probably don't want to learn now.)
Rizzoli & Isles Cafe World survey
And that's it! Hope you enjoyed the walkthrough.
Mafia Wars South Africa Chapter 2 unlocked
Mafia Wars South Africa Challenge Mission: Chapter 2 has officially unlocked, meaning you'll need to collect more counterfeit tickets and keep the heat off your back long enough to get these done before Chapter 3 opens on Sunday, July 19.
A list of jobs is below:
mafia wars south africa chapter 2
I suspect this Chapter will be more difficult than the first, since the Double Mastery weekend is over. Now it's back to plain ole' mastery. Once all of these jobs are completed, the reward is a Tiebreaker (weapon) that packs a punch with 76 A, 42 D.
What do you think of this Challenge -- too easy, too hard?
A list of jobs is below:
mafia wars south africa chapter 2
I suspect this Chapter will be more difficult than the first, since the Double Mastery weekend is over. Now it's back to plain ole' mastery. Once all of these jobs are completed, the reward is a Tiebreaker (weapon) that packs a punch with 76 A, 42 D.
What do you think of this Challenge -- too easy, too hard?
FarmVille Unreleased Euro Bison
Thank you to FarmVille Freak UserUser3 for finding this unreleased FarmVille Euro Bison!
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Happy Island Limited Edition Bundles: Get Tropical, To the Greek, Be Zen or Go for the Gold
Happy Island Limited Edition Bundles
If you love Happy Island and have yet to spend those 5 free Facebook Credits that were being given away by Crowdstar's Hello City, a new Happy Island Limited Edition Bundle would be the perfect purchase.
There's four bundles, each with different themes -- Tropical Island, Greek Get Away, Zen Vacation, or just "Give me the Gold!" which is a 50,000 Coins package. Each bundle contains both regular and premium goods, and costs exactly 5 FB Credits.
Here's what's in 'em:
Island Paradise Bundle!
Includes: Mini Del, Java Revolution, Bird of Paradise, Bird of Paradise, Pineapple Plant, Pineapple Plant
Aegean Get-Away Bundle!
Includes: Aqua Virgo, Nero's Inn, Greek Theater, Cyprus Tree, Cyprus Tree
Zen Vacation Bundle!
Includes: Qin's General, 88 Market, Shangri-La Hotel, Arched Bridge, Bamboo Grove, Bamboo Grove
If you love Happy Island and have yet to spend those 5 free Facebook Credits that were being given away by Crowdstar's Hello City, a new Happy Island Limited Edition Bundle would be the perfect purchase.
There's four bundles, each with different themes -- Tropical Island, Greek Get Away, Zen Vacation, or just "Give me the Gold!" which is a 50,000 Coins package. Each bundle contains both regular and premium goods, and costs exactly 5 FB Credits.
Here's what's in 'em:
Island Paradise Bundle!
Includes: Mini Del, Java Revolution, Bird of Paradise, Bird of Paradise, Pineapple Plant, Pineapple Plant
Aegean Get-Away Bundle!
Includes: Aqua Virgo, Nero's Inn, Greek Theater, Cyprus Tree, Cyprus Tree
Zen Vacation Bundle!
Includes: Qin's General, 88 Market, Shangri-La Hotel, Arched Bridge, Bamboo Grove, Bamboo Grove
Thứ Năm, 9 tháng 2, 2012
Happy Pets brings on the cuddly with bear cubs debut
Happy Pets - cutest bears ever
These must be the cutest pets to ever tumble into the Happy Pets store -- just look at them! Alright, so what if Brown Bear looks like its checking out Polar Bear's tushy?
Happy Pets bears in store
Most folks do think feel that the bears' faces look somewhat ape-like, but they're adorably animated, and the Psychedelic Bear is a definite an eye-catcher without being an eye sore. That one's also the most expensive, going for 60 Facebook Credits ($6 USD), while the rest are for 48 FB Credits each ($4.80 USD). Let's hope the game comes out with some Coins-only ones. It always does, but it just takes time. Meanwhile, these aren't Limited Edition, so you can save up FB Credits for them.
These must be the cutest pets to ever tumble into the Happy Pets store -- just look at them! Alright, so what if Brown Bear looks like its checking out Polar Bear's tushy?
Happy Pets bears in store
Most folks do think feel that the bears' faces look somewhat ape-like, but they're adorably animated, and the Psychedelic Bear is a definite an eye-catcher without being an eye sore. That one's also the most expensive, going for 60 Facebook Credits ($6 USD), while the rest are for 48 FB Credits each ($4.80 USD). Let's hope the game comes out with some Coins-only ones. It always does, but it just takes time. Meanwhile, these aren't Limited Edition, so you can save up FB Credits for them.
FrontierVille Big Homestand land expansion finally arrives
Your wilderness is about to grow and multiply with the first-ever expansion in FrontierVille. Unlike land expansions in FarmVille, where you simply spend coins to gain more land, virtual pioneers will have to complete a series of five quests and pay 5,000 coins to extend their property lines (and make room for all of those buildings you need to complete your budding pioneer township).
To get started with the new expansion, head to the Market to buy the Expansion Quest (you can find it under the *Specials* tab in the Market). Buy it for 5,000 coins, which will activate the quests you'll need to complete to earn the expansion.
frontierville big homestead
To give you an idea of what's ahead, see all five missions below and what exactly you'll need to do to complete the missions.
frontierville staking claims
GOAL: Homestead Expansion Part 1
Time to Start Staking Claims
It's gettin' to be time to expand your land, but there's lots that needs to be done first. For starters, we'll be needin' wood and other supplies. Go out and get them all
1. Have 200 Wood (Fulfilling this mission will consume 200 Wood)
2. Purchase One Lumber Cart
3. Collect One Axe (Fulfilling this mission will consume the Axe too)
Tips :
Gather wood chopping trees.
Lumber Cart can be found in the market.
Axe is part of the Oak Tree collection.
ProTip: If you've previously collected 200 wood and an axe (and if you've been playing a while, it's likely you've already done this), you will only need to buy the lumbert cart in the market for 3,500 coins and 25 wood. Goal finito.
farmville expansion level 2
GOAL: Homestead Expansion Part 2
- Visit Ten Neighbors
- Collect Ten Survey Authorizations (Fulfilling this mission will consume the Authorizations)
- Clear Ten Neighbor Debris
Tips :
- Debris are items such as Grass, thorns, rocks, and wildflowers
- Ask your friends to send Survey Authorizations by clicking the "Ask" button.
ProTip:
You can get Survey Authorizations by posting on your Facebook Wall. Only three friends can reply each time you post a Survey request, but you can also collect them from your friend feed.
GOAL: Homestead Expansion Part 3
- Get 10 Map Coordinates (Fulfilling this mission will consume the Map Coordinates)
- Chop 20 Neighbor Trees
- Craft Four Planks
Tips :
Click on "Ask" button to request Map Coordinates from neighbors
Construct Planks in Covered Wagons.
(The coordinates and planks will be deducted once you've completed this mission.)
GOAL: Homestead Expansion Part 4
- Lay Ten Stone Borders (giftable)
- Lay Six Flowerbeds (giftable)
- Place Four Log Benches
Reward : Unlocked Land Office
GOAL: Homestead Expansion Part 5
- Finish the Land Office (requires 19 whacks - 5 wood each- + 8 of each building material)
- Craft One Cartographers Tool (requires 25 wood and 3 tools)
- Craft One Land Grant (requires 100,000 gold and 15 cloth)
Once you complete the fifth goal, you'll be the proud owner of a new Big Homestead. Treat your pioneer family to a picnic to celebrate.
To get started with the new expansion, head to the Market to buy the Expansion Quest (you can find it under the *Specials* tab in the Market). Buy it for 5,000 coins, which will activate the quests you'll need to complete to earn the expansion.
frontierville big homestead
To give you an idea of what's ahead, see all five missions below and what exactly you'll need to do to complete the missions.
frontierville staking claims
GOAL: Homestead Expansion Part 1
Time to Start Staking Claims
It's gettin' to be time to expand your land, but there's lots that needs to be done first. For starters, we'll be needin' wood and other supplies. Go out and get them all
1. Have 200 Wood (Fulfilling this mission will consume 200 Wood)
2. Purchase One Lumber Cart
3. Collect One Axe (Fulfilling this mission will consume the Axe too)
Tips :
Gather wood chopping trees.
Lumber Cart can be found in the market.
Axe is part of the Oak Tree collection.
ProTip: If you've previously collected 200 wood and an axe (and if you've been playing a while, it's likely you've already done this), you will only need to buy the lumbert cart in the market for 3,500 coins and 25 wood. Goal finito.
farmville expansion level 2
GOAL: Homestead Expansion Part 2
- Visit Ten Neighbors
- Collect Ten Survey Authorizations (Fulfilling this mission will consume the Authorizations)
- Clear Ten Neighbor Debris
Tips :
- Debris are items such as Grass, thorns, rocks, and wildflowers
- Ask your friends to send Survey Authorizations by clicking the "Ask" button.
ProTip:
You can get Survey Authorizations by posting on your Facebook Wall. Only three friends can reply each time you post a Survey request, but you can also collect them from your friend feed.
GOAL: Homestead Expansion Part 3
- Get 10 Map Coordinates (Fulfilling this mission will consume the Map Coordinates)
- Chop 20 Neighbor Trees
- Craft Four Planks
Tips :
Click on "Ask" button to request Map Coordinates from neighbors
Construct Planks in Covered Wagons.
(The coordinates and planks will be deducted once you've completed this mission.)
GOAL: Homestead Expansion Part 4
- Lay Ten Stone Borders (giftable)
- Lay Six Flowerbeds (giftable)
- Place Four Log Benches
Reward : Unlocked Land Office
GOAL: Homestead Expansion Part 5
- Finish the Land Office (requires 19 whacks - 5 wood each- + 8 of each building material)
- Craft One Cartographers Tool (requires 25 wood and 3 tools)
- Craft One Land Grant (requires 100,000 gold and 15 cloth)
Once you complete the fifth goal, you'll be the proud owner of a new Big Homestead. Treat your pioneer family to a picnic to celebrate.
FarmVille new permanent crops: Zucchini and Rhubarb
FarmVille Zucchini and Rhubard
You may purchase these seeds at any time in the FarmVille Market. Crop Mastery is available for both.
Rhubarb costs 65 Coins to purchase, takes 16 hours to grow, and yields 150 Coins and 1 XP.
Zucchini seeds are only available to Level 27 farmers and above who have also mastered Pattypan Squash. Zucchini seeds will cost 120 Coins to purchase, take 16 hours to grow, and yield 220 Coins and 2 XP. Will you grown Zucchini or Rhubarb on your farm?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
You may purchase these seeds at any time in the FarmVille Market. Crop Mastery is available for both.
Rhubarb costs 65 Coins to purchase, takes 16 hours to grow, and yields 150 Coins and 1 XP.
Zucchini seeds are only available to Level 27 farmers and above who have also mastered Pattypan Squash. Zucchini seeds will cost 120 Coins to purchase, take 16 hours to grow, and yield 220 Coins and 2 XP. Will you grown Zucchini or Rhubarb on your farm?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
FarmVille Bakery Delivery Co-op mission: Grow wheat, win a sweet red truck
FarmVille has -- at last -- released a new social mission, called the Bakery Delivery Co-Op Mission. You and your Co-Op buddies can band together to plant 1,450 plots of wheat and harvest it within a certain amount of time to earn gold, silver or bronze and subsequent rewards, including the Cherry Red Seeder Truck, which is a must-have for any farm vehicle junkie.
farmville bakery delivery coop
Here are the requirements for each of the rewards:
Gold: Complete in 1 day, 7 hours
Reward: 610 coins, 700 XP
Silver: Complete in 1 day, 23 hours
Reward: 535 coins, 620 XP
Bronze: Complete in 3 days, 5 hours
Reward: 425 coins, 520 XP
What do you think of the new red Seeder Truck?
farmville bakery delivery coop
Here are the requirements for each of the rewards:
Gold: Complete in 1 day, 7 hours
Reward: 610 coins, 700 XP
Silver: Complete in 1 day, 23 hours
Reward: 535 coins, 620 XP
Bronze: Complete in 3 days, 5 hours
Reward: 425 coins, 520 XP
What do you think of the new red Seeder Truck?
FarmVille Mystery Gift Prizes Updated - August 12th
The FarmVille free Mystery Gift prizes have been updated with a new set of prizes as of August 12, 2010.
Please note, this is for the free giftable Mystery Gifts (not farm cash Mystery Box or Mystery Game). You may send free Mystery Gifts to your FarmVille neighbors via the FarmVille Gifting Page.
In addition to the previous Mystery Gift prizes, the following are newly confirmed prizes for this Mystery Gift as of today.
Long Tailed Duck
White Lawn Chair
Flower Bucket
What prize did you receive in the August 12th Mystery Gift?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Please note, this is for the free giftable Mystery Gifts (not farm cash Mystery Box or Mystery Game). You may send free Mystery Gifts to your FarmVille neighbors via the FarmVille Gifting Page.
In addition to the previous Mystery Gift prizes, the following are newly confirmed prizes for this Mystery Gift as of today.
Long Tailed Duck
White Lawn Chair
Flower Bucket
What prize did you receive in the August 12th Mystery Gift?
This article originally appeared on FarmVille Freak.
Thứ Hai, 6 tháng 2, 2012
Social game maker Mind Candy named Top 10 British tech media company
The London-based firm behind 15-million-member strong social game Moshi Monsters has been named one of Great Britain's top tech media companies by The Guardian.
The newspaper's Tech Media Invest 100 recognized Mind Candy as one of the best of the 100 companies they "picked for their innovation and creativity over the past year."
Moshi Monsters presents a brightly colored virtual world where children can adopt and interact with cute pet monsters, as well as other players. While the Moshi Monsters network has been referred to as "Facebook for children," the game deserves note for finding a network of players outside of Facebook's seemingly all-encompassing grip on social gaming.
Separately, The Guardian also recognized Playfish as a "trailblazer" company that others in the market should emulate. "You have to be comfortable with failure and celebrate the initiative of trying new things," Playfish CEO Kristian Segerstrale said by way of advice for companies trying to make their mark. "The heroes are the folks who take risks that worked out, but we still celebrate the risks that don't. We're a richer company as a result."
Also on the list: nDreams, which is known for publishing social and alternate reality gaming experiences on alternative platforms such as PlayStation Home.
The newspaper's Tech Media Invest 100 recognized Mind Candy as one of the best of the 100 companies they "picked for their innovation and creativity over the past year."
Moshi Monsters presents a brightly colored virtual world where children can adopt and interact with cute pet monsters, as well as other players. While the Moshi Monsters network has been referred to as "Facebook for children," the game deserves note for finding a network of players outside of Facebook's seemingly all-encompassing grip on social gaming.
Separately, The Guardian also recognized Playfish as a "trailblazer" company that others in the market should emulate. "You have to be comfortable with failure and celebrate the initiative of trying new things," Playfish CEO Kristian Segerstrale said by way of advice for companies trying to make their mark. "The heroes are the folks who take risks that worked out, but we still celebrate the risks that don't. We're a richer company as a result."
Also on the list: nDreams, which is known for publishing social and alternate reality gaming experiences on alternative platforms such as PlayStation Home.
'PopCap World' social game service brings Bejeweled, et al to Korea
popcap world
Casual game maker PopCap and major online game publisher NCSoft today announced a partnership that would bring multiplayer versions of many PopCap games to Korea later this year.
PopCap World, as the service is called, will include free-to-play Korean versions of 13 PopCap titles, including Bejeweled, Plants vs. Zombies, Zuma and an all-new Korean exclusive multiplayer game dubbed Super Zuma. Premium paid elements for these games will be added later.
It's unclear whether these multiplayer versions will be tailored to simultaneous play, as portions of PopCap's recent XBLA release of Plants vs. Zombies, or asynchronous score competitions, as PopCap's Facebook releases like Bejeweled Blitz.
Calling today's announcement "just the beginning," PopCap VP for Asia/Pacific James Gwertzman was expansive in describing the impact of the new service. "When Disneyland first opened, it revolutionized the amusement park industry and ushered in the era of the modern theme park," he said. "In the same way, we believe PopCap World has the potential to redefine casual games in Korea and beyond by offering players the most immersive PopCap experience yet."
This is the first product from Popcap's Shanghai Games Studio, which was opened in 2008 to cater to the "significant differences in the playing habits and expectations of Asian consumers." A company rep says that PopCap World was designed with overseas audiences in mind and will not necessarily be arriving Stateside anytime soon. Then again, if this proves to be a runaway hit overseas, that plan might change.
Casual game maker PopCap and major online game publisher NCSoft today announced a partnership that would bring multiplayer versions of many PopCap games to Korea later this year.
PopCap World, as the service is called, will include free-to-play Korean versions of 13 PopCap titles, including Bejeweled, Plants vs. Zombies, Zuma and an all-new Korean exclusive multiplayer game dubbed Super Zuma. Premium paid elements for these games will be added later.
It's unclear whether these multiplayer versions will be tailored to simultaneous play, as portions of PopCap's recent XBLA release of Plants vs. Zombies, or asynchronous score competitions, as PopCap's Facebook releases like Bejeweled Blitz.
Calling today's announcement "just the beginning," PopCap VP for Asia/Pacific James Gwertzman was expansive in describing the impact of the new service. "When Disneyland first opened, it revolutionized the amusement park industry and ushered in the era of the modern theme park," he said. "In the same way, we believe PopCap World has the potential to redefine casual games in Korea and beyond by offering players the most immersive PopCap experience yet."
This is the first product from Popcap's Shanghai Games Studio, which was opened in 2008 to cater to the "significant differences in the playing habits and expectations of Asian consumers." A company rep says that PopCap World was designed with overseas audiences in mind and will not necessarily be arriving Stateside anytime soon. Then again, if this proves to be a runaway hit overseas, that plan might change.
armVille Add Comment Zynga's Platinum Purchase Program does high-profile, underground transactions
Zynga conducts underground direct money transfers
While we know Zynga has made some pretty inflammatory comments before in reference to its game design, we've seldom heard the company behind social game giant FarmVille say much of anything about addiction. Maybe this is because they'd rather not be seen as hypocritical when the company was recently discovered running a hushed transaction program known as the Platinum Purchase Program.
The program is only dealt with via e-mail and the minimum purchase price is $500 via wire-transfer only. Buying directly nets purchasers more bonus points to buy items in their games. Since Zynga doesn't mention this secret program on its website or in any Zynga game, these high-profile purchasers are rewarded extra points for referring friends to the program. This spreads the word among the those who are hooked on the program with less chance of this underground program being exposed.
Information on the program is seldom online, except a few blog posts from a writer known as Loot Lady, who mentions the trouble she had finding the program. She also includes an e-mail she sent referring to program with an official response from Zynga customer service. It makes sense: why would Zynga admit to enabling addicts with surprisingly shallow pockets like the unemployed disabled man that the New York Times recently spoke with?
The program lends itself to those who are addicted to their games by allowing them to purchase points in mass quantities without the purchases showing up on their credit history. Knowing the destructively addictive effect that other social games can have on players, we cannot imagine how much revenue Zynga is bringing in behind the scenes (until now).
[Via Gawker]
UPDATE: A reader, Sarah, got in touch with Zynga about the Platinum Program and received the following email back:
zynga platinum program
What do you think of this Platinum Purchase Program? Is this a way to encourage non-US players to spend money or is this more sinister -- fueling social game addiction?
While we know Zynga has made some pretty inflammatory comments before in reference to its game design, we've seldom heard the company behind social game giant FarmVille say much of anything about addiction. Maybe this is because they'd rather not be seen as hypocritical when the company was recently discovered running a hushed transaction program known as the Platinum Purchase Program.
The program is only dealt with via e-mail and the minimum purchase price is $500 via wire-transfer only. Buying directly nets purchasers more bonus points to buy items in their games. Since Zynga doesn't mention this secret program on its website or in any Zynga game, these high-profile purchasers are rewarded extra points for referring friends to the program. This spreads the word among the those who are hooked on the program with less chance of this underground program being exposed.
Information on the program is seldom online, except a few blog posts from a writer known as Loot Lady, who mentions the trouble she had finding the program. She also includes an e-mail she sent referring to program with an official response from Zynga customer service. It makes sense: why would Zynga admit to enabling addicts with surprisingly shallow pockets like the unemployed disabled man that the New York Times recently spoke with?
The program lends itself to those who are addicted to their games by allowing them to purchase points in mass quantities without the purchases showing up on their credit history. Knowing the destructively addictive effect that other social games can have on players, we cannot imagine how much revenue Zynga is bringing in behind the scenes (until now).
[Via Gawker]
UPDATE: A reader, Sarah, got in touch with Zynga about the Platinum Program and received the following email back:
zynga platinum program
What do you think of this Platinum Purchase Program? Is this a way to encourage non-US players to spend money or is this more sinister -- fueling social game addiction?
FarmVille Truffles: Everything you need to know
FarmVille Pig Truffle Hunting
Zynga recently released a new way of getting Truffles from your pigs in FarmVille: the Pigpen. While we already know how to build our pigpens and send our pigs truffle hunting, the wild world of truffles has been somewhat of a mystery. Specifically, the many varieties of truffles and what you'll be rewarded with for trading them in (hint: rare pigs and coins aplenty). Until now.
Join us behind the cut for a detailed guide on what these weird (and apparently delicious) fungi can have in store for you.
FarmVille Pig Found a Truffle
Since the world of truffles can get pretty confusing, we're going to break it down by the four truffle varieties: brown, black, white and golden. Then, check below for which pig will be able to find each truffle and what that truffle will get you after trading it in. You'll notice a bit of overlap in the rewards versus what pig is required to find each truffle.
This is because once you get that particular pig, the game is trying to tell you to use that pig to find the next variety of truffle. Trust us, it'll make sense to you after reading our detailed list:
FarmVille Brown TruffleBrown Truffles:
Pigs Able to Find Them
Pig
Black Pig
Ossabaw Pig
Party Pig
Trade-in Rewards
1/5 Fuel Refill
Strawberry Pig
Black Pig
Ossabaw Pig
FarmVille Black TruffleBlack Truffles:
Pigs Able to Find Them
Saddleback Pig
Piglet
Strawberry Pig *This pig is a reward from finding Brown Truffles, use it to find the next tier of truffles.
Trade-in Rewards
1 Fuel Refill
Strawberry Pig
White Pig
300 coins
FarmVille White TruffleWhite Truffles:
Pigs Able to Find Them
Hot Pink Pig
Hula Pig
Island Pig
White Pig *Notice the pattern going on here.
Trade-in Rewards
5 Fuel Refills
White Pig
Pink Potbelly Pig
1,000 coins
FarmVille Gold TruffleGold Truffles:
Pigs Able to Find Them
Javelina
Miniature Pig
Pot Belly Pig
Pink Pot Belly Pig
Trade-in Rewards
10 Fuel Refills
Pink Pot Belly Pig (Wait, what?*)
5,000 coins
So, there you have it. That's everything you'll need to find each and every variety of truffle, but more importantly what's in it for you. There's a pattern in the rewards that will guide you into the next tier of truffles without forcing you to pay up for new pigs.
*Unfortunately, the Gold Truffles don't reward a new pig. Though, I guess more Pink Potbellies will eventually be more beneficial in the long run. Imagine all of the fuel and coins you could net with a pigpen filled with Pink Potbellies! So, now with an even better reason to find those truffles, happy hunting!
Check out the rest of our FarmVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Zynga recently released a new way of getting Truffles from your pigs in FarmVille: the Pigpen. While we already know how to build our pigpens and send our pigs truffle hunting, the wild world of truffles has been somewhat of a mystery. Specifically, the many varieties of truffles and what you'll be rewarded with for trading them in (hint: rare pigs and coins aplenty). Until now.
Join us behind the cut for a detailed guide on what these weird (and apparently delicious) fungi can have in store for you.
FarmVille Pig Found a Truffle
Since the world of truffles can get pretty confusing, we're going to break it down by the four truffle varieties: brown, black, white and golden. Then, check below for which pig will be able to find each truffle and what that truffle will get you after trading it in. You'll notice a bit of overlap in the rewards versus what pig is required to find each truffle.
This is because once you get that particular pig, the game is trying to tell you to use that pig to find the next variety of truffle. Trust us, it'll make sense to you after reading our detailed list:
FarmVille Brown TruffleBrown Truffles:
Pigs Able to Find Them
Pig
Black Pig
Ossabaw Pig
Party Pig
Trade-in Rewards
1/5 Fuel Refill
Strawberry Pig
Black Pig
Ossabaw Pig
FarmVille Black TruffleBlack Truffles:
Pigs Able to Find Them
Saddleback Pig
Piglet
Strawberry Pig *This pig is a reward from finding Brown Truffles, use it to find the next tier of truffles.
Trade-in Rewards
1 Fuel Refill
Strawberry Pig
White Pig
300 coins
FarmVille White TruffleWhite Truffles:
Pigs Able to Find Them
Hot Pink Pig
Hula Pig
Island Pig
White Pig *Notice the pattern going on here.
Trade-in Rewards
5 Fuel Refills
White Pig
Pink Potbelly Pig
1,000 coins
FarmVille Gold TruffleGold Truffles:
Pigs Able to Find Them
Javelina
Miniature Pig
Pot Belly Pig
Pink Pot Belly Pig
Trade-in Rewards
10 Fuel Refills
Pink Pot Belly Pig (Wait, what?*)
5,000 coins
So, there you have it. That's everything you'll need to find each and every variety of truffle, but more importantly what's in it for you. There's a pattern in the rewards that will guide you into the next tier of truffles without forcing you to pay up for new pigs.
*Unfortunately, the Gold Truffles don't reward a new pig. Though, I guess more Pink Potbellies will eventually be more beneficial in the long run. Imagine all of the fuel and coins you could net with a pigpen filled with Pink Potbellies! So, now with an even better reason to find those truffles, happy hunting!
Check out the rest of our FarmVille Cheats & Tips right here.
FarmVille Pig Truffle Rewards: A sneak peak at these truffle-sniffing squealers
FarmVille Pigpen
Earlier, we let you in on how exactly you could get your hands on the four new truffles in FarmVille and what you could win for trading them in, but we figured you would like a peek at the stars of the show: the pigs. Here's all of the little piggies that you could bring "Weee, all the way home," from the Truffle Hunt:
Black Pig
(Reward from Brown Truffles)
Ossabaw Pig
(Reward from Brown Truffles)
Continue reading for a look at the three rarest pigs you can win from trading in Black, White and Gold Truffles.
FarmVille Strawberry Pig
Strawberry Pig
(Reward from Brown and Black Truffles)
White Pig
(Reward from Black and White Truffles)
Pink Potbelly Pig
(Reward from White and Gold Truffles)
So, there are all of the pigs you'll find during your hunt for those savory shrooms we call truffles. Be sure to get your pigpen filled with Pink Potbellies as soon as possible to reap an almost endless supply of coins and fuel--the real bonuses from Gold Truffles--for your farm.
Earlier, we let you in on how exactly you could get your hands on the four new truffles in FarmVille and what you could win for trading them in, but we figured you would like a peek at the stars of the show: the pigs. Here's all of the little piggies that you could bring "Weee, all the way home," from the Truffle Hunt:
Black Pig
(Reward from Brown Truffles)
Ossabaw Pig
(Reward from Brown Truffles)
Continue reading for a look at the three rarest pigs you can win from trading in Black, White and Gold Truffles.
FarmVille Strawberry Pig
Strawberry Pig
(Reward from Brown and Black Truffles)
White Pig
(Reward from Black and White Truffles)
Pink Potbelly Pig
(Reward from White and Gold Truffles)
So, there are all of the pigs you'll find during your hunt for those savory shrooms we call truffles. Be sure to get your pigpen filled with Pink Potbellies as soon as possible to reap an almost endless supply of coins and fuel--the real bonuses from Gold Truffles--for your farm.
Thứ Sáu, 3 tháng 2, 2012
FarmVille Halloween Sneak Peak: Ghost Gnome, Mummy Gnome, and Vampire Gnome
FarmVille Halloween: Ghost Gnome, Mummy Gnome, and Vampire Gnome
Because you can never have too many gnomes, there's three new gnomes in the works for Halloween in FarmVille. These are Ghost Gnome, Mummy Gnome, and Vampire Gnome.
Most of the time, gnomes just stand around, but not the Ghost Gnome. His non-corporeal nature allows for animated air-hovering action! Go check it out below:
[Via FarmVille Latest]
Find more stories on our 2010 Halloween Guide for FarmVille, Mafia Wars & more.
Because you can never have too many gnomes, there's three new gnomes in the works for Halloween in FarmVille. These are Ghost Gnome, Mummy Gnome, and Vampire Gnome.
Most of the time, gnomes just stand around, but not the Ghost Gnome. His non-corporeal nature allows for animated air-hovering action! Go check it out below:
[Via FarmVille Latest]
Find more stories on our 2010 Halloween Guide for FarmVille, Mafia Wars & more.
Mafia Wars' new Account Settings cut email spam and get to the game
In what seems to be a response to the recent changes to Facebook's Application Privacy Settings, Zynga has updated Mafia Wars with a way to change your email settings within the game. Changing these settings will only affect Mafia Wars and no other Zynga game, unfortunately, but chances are this feature will find its way into the gaming titan's other games.
You can now change what Mafia Wars will update you with via email down to every last change. However, the game can only update you through email once daily when you're robbed, attacked (once each for wins and losses) and put on a Hitlist. Unfortunately, the feature is currently bugged and will hopefully be fixed shortly as it was just recently introduced. It looks like signing away your email for bonuses is about to get a tad more appealing.
You can now change what Mafia Wars will update you with via email down to every last change. However, the game can only update you through email once daily when you're robbed, attacked (once each for wins and losses) and put on a Hitlist. Unfortunately, the feature is currently bugged and will hopefully be fixed shortly as it was just recently introduced. It looks like signing away your email for bonuses is about to get a tad more appealing.
Mafia Wars Silence Don Romo Job Event: Prelude to Europe's boot
Silence Don Romo
That's "Lo Stivale" for you Italian folks out there. Zynga is fueling the excitement for Italy, Mafia Wars' sixth city, with the "Silence Don Romo" event going through Oct. 16. This unique job event also brings with it a new collection, mastery item and an achievement for mastering the job by this Saturday, "Boss of Bosses."
Check behind the break for more information on this limited time event.
Silence Don Romo job guide
You can attack this job in three ways, each requiring you to collect your bonuses in varying times from five minutes to 24 hours. Only one job option can be taken at a time and have varying chances to drop an item from the Silence Don Romo collection. In other words, completing this event in time for Oct. 16 is going to take some serious planning.
Silence Don Romo Collection
The Silence Don Romo Collection contains seven items that can drop from various places within Mafia Wars in addition to when working on the job of the same name. You'll have to fight, complete jobs both in and outside of the event and send Don Romo's Pridegifts to your friends to complete this collection, which will reward you with a delicious Home-cooked Meal (18 Attack, 68 Defense). How that's going to come in handy in a mob war is beyond me, but it's a cool limited edition item nonetheless.
Lastly, completely mastering the job and the collection will net you an exclusive (well, aside from everyone else who did it) achievement, "Boss of Bosses." Also, mastering this preview event will reward you with Don Romo's Pride, a vehicle with 35 Attack and 72 Defense. All in all, not too shabby for a prelude mission. Hopefully we'll have this many options for completing jobs when Italy finally arrives some time this month.
That's "Lo Stivale" for you Italian folks out there. Zynga is fueling the excitement for Italy, Mafia Wars' sixth city, with the "Silence Don Romo" event going through Oct. 16. This unique job event also brings with it a new collection, mastery item and an achievement for mastering the job by this Saturday, "Boss of Bosses."
Check behind the break for more information on this limited time event.
Silence Don Romo job guide
You can attack this job in three ways, each requiring you to collect your bonuses in varying times from five minutes to 24 hours. Only one job option can be taken at a time and have varying chances to drop an item from the Silence Don Romo collection. In other words, completing this event in time for Oct. 16 is going to take some serious planning.
Silence Don Romo Collection
The Silence Don Romo Collection contains seven items that can drop from various places within Mafia Wars in addition to when working on the job of the same name. You'll have to fight, complete jobs both in and outside of the event and send Don Romo's Pridegifts to your friends to complete this collection, which will reward you with a delicious Home-cooked Meal (18 Attack, 68 Defense). How that's going to come in handy in a mob war is beyond me, but it's a cool limited edition item nonetheless.
Lastly, completely mastering the job and the collection will net you an exclusive (well, aside from everyone else who did it) achievement, "Boss of Bosses." Also, mastering this preview event will reward you with Don Romo's Pride, a vehicle with 35 Attack and 72 Defense. All in all, not too shabby for a prelude mission. Hopefully we'll have this many options for completing jobs when Italy finally arrives some time this month.
Diner Dash on Facebook: Oh yes, it's coming
If you're not familiar with the Diner Dash game series starring the uber-waitress Flo -- well, you're probably missing out on one of the most fun and addicting games outside of PopCap's Bejeweled. The goal of this game is to seat, serve and clean up after as many diner customers as possible in a limited amount of time. And while this might sound like work to some, it has hooked enough people to warrant nine Diner Dash games (on PC, iOS and Xbox Live), as well as several spin-offs (i.e. Wedding Dash, Avenue Flo).
diner dash on FacebookNow, it looks like Flo and Co. will soon make the leap to Facebook, based on recent news about Diner Dash maker PlayFirst, who just closed $9.2 million in financing "to continue put into social and mobile games."
"With this capital, we will continue to aggressively optimize the PlayFirst brands that consumers love, like Diner Dash, to social and mobile platforms and look for growth through partnerships and potential acquisitions," says Playfirst President Mari Baker.
Playfirst also hired former EA marketing executive Eric Hartness to "drive PlayFirst brands into the social game market."
"In fact, our recent research shows that Diner Dash is already better known among Facebook game players than many of the top Facebook games today," says Mike Vorhaus, president of Magid Advisors.
There's no additional information on the game, though in a recent Games.com Blog interview, Baker also confirmed that PlayFirst is, indeed, looking into bringing the time management game to Facebook. First, she says, they're trying to learn how to make the best game possible through trial in error in Playfirst's first Facebook game -- Chocolatier. Full interview coming soon.
It's also worth pointing out that Diner Dash 5: Boom! included a small Facebook component, but we're still waiting for Flo to get a fully realized debut on everyone's favorite social network.
diner dash on FacebookNow, it looks like Flo and Co. will soon make the leap to Facebook, based on recent news about Diner Dash maker PlayFirst, who just closed $9.2 million in financing "to continue put into social and mobile games."
"With this capital, we will continue to aggressively optimize the PlayFirst brands that consumers love, like Diner Dash, to social and mobile platforms and look for growth through partnerships and potential acquisitions," says Playfirst President Mari Baker.
Playfirst also hired former EA marketing executive Eric Hartness to "drive PlayFirst brands into the social game market."
"In fact, our recent research shows that Diner Dash is already better known among Facebook game players than many of the top Facebook games today," says Mike Vorhaus, president of Magid Advisors.
There's no additional information on the game, though in a recent Games.com Blog interview, Baker also confirmed that PlayFirst is, indeed, looking into bringing the time management game to Facebook. First, she says, they're trying to learn how to make the best game possible through trial in error in Playfirst's first Facebook game -- Chocolatier. Full interview coming soon.
It's also worth pointing out that Diner Dash 5: Boom! included a small Facebook component, but we're still waiting for Flo to get a fully realized debut on everyone's favorite social network.
Social game development could become the next big college degree
Club Superstar
Don't you wish you had this opportunity at your school? Students enrolled in Tribeca Flashpoint Academy, a Chicago-based two-year college focusing on digital arts, have teamed up with social gaming start up KBoom games to create their first game, Club Superstar. The game was finished with the help of Tribeca students and will obviously count towards their exposure as developers as well as their portfolio. Game design degree programs have become pretty common, but not ones focused on social gaming.
Club Superstar launched last month and takes players into their own night club and tasks them with running the business. Taking inspiration from games like Cafe World and Nightclub City, Club Superstar allows players to mix drinks, schedule events and customize their clubs to perfection. Better yet, the game features club music from real, local DJs and bands to play in your personal club.
With super cool programs like this, it looks like social games might be one of the next big industries to look toward as a career choice for you aspiring developers and designers out there. With the way things are headed today, social gaming could become the next big degree to have since information technology and computer science. But maybe that's just wishful thinking.
Play Club Superstar on Facebook Now >
Don't you wish you had this opportunity at your school? Students enrolled in Tribeca Flashpoint Academy, a Chicago-based two-year college focusing on digital arts, have teamed up with social gaming start up KBoom games to create their first game, Club Superstar. The game was finished with the help of Tribeca students and will obviously count towards their exposure as developers as well as their portfolio. Game design degree programs have become pretty common, but not ones focused on social gaming.
Club Superstar launched last month and takes players into their own night club and tasks them with running the business. Taking inspiration from games like Cafe World and Nightclub City, Club Superstar allows players to mix drinks, schedule events and customize their clubs to perfection. Better yet, the game features club music from real, local DJs and bands to play in your personal club.
With super cool programs like this, it looks like social games might be one of the next big industries to look toward as a career choice for you aspiring developers and designers out there. With the way things are headed today, social gaming could become the next big degree to have since information technology and computer science. But maybe that's just wishful thinking.
Play Club Superstar on Facebook Now >
Thứ Năm, 2 tháng 2, 2012
Mafia Wars Atlantic City is live, a brand new city inside your phone
Atlantic City
For those who have suffered the inexplicable (albeit much flashier) horrors of Zynga's Mafia Wars app for iPhone, the wait for a true Mafia Wars experience on mobile is over. Atlantic City is live and ready to be pillaged for all players above Level 18. All you need to do is type this address, m.mafiawars.com, in your phone's native mobile browser (this hasn't been tested on Opera mobile yet, sorry folks) and log in using Facebook Connect.
Find out what the first real Mafia Wars game for mobile is like after the break.
Mafia Wars Fight
After logging in, you'll be surprised at how similar the experience is to its big brother on the full web Facebook. Not to mention how much faster it is (I was connected via WiFi). You have the choice of either hopping in fights--that is, with all Mafia Wars players--or taking on Atlantic City's unique jobs.
Mafia WarsJobs
Jobs operate just like normal ones with one key difference: since this is a casino town, the exclusive currency for Atlantic City is Vegas Chips. Though, for veterans of Sin City, these jobs should be cake with the amount of leftover Chips they should have. While the jobs don't contain the pretty artwork like they do on Facebook, at least completing these contributes to your actual character and not one made up for a poorly executed social app. You can even used your saved Energy packs if you run low.
Mafia Wars Level Up
Leveling up in Atlantic City is just like normal, but again, much faster. So this is what it feels like to be free of Flash, huh? Better yet, you can collect from your properties in all cities (even Italy!), though this city unfortunately doesn't have properties of its own. All in all, Mafia Wars Atlantic City is more than the ultimate companion app; it's nearly an entire city on your phone. With how smoothly the game runs on mobile, we hope this is just the beginning.
For those who have suffered the inexplicable (albeit much flashier) horrors of Zynga's Mafia Wars app for iPhone, the wait for a true Mafia Wars experience on mobile is over. Atlantic City is live and ready to be pillaged for all players above Level 18. All you need to do is type this address, m.mafiawars.com, in your phone's native mobile browser (this hasn't been tested on Opera mobile yet, sorry folks) and log in using Facebook Connect.
Find out what the first real Mafia Wars game for mobile is like after the break.
Mafia Wars Fight
After logging in, you'll be surprised at how similar the experience is to its big brother on the full web Facebook. Not to mention how much faster it is (I was connected via WiFi). You have the choice of either hopping in fights--that is, with all Mafia Wars players--or taking on Atlantic City's unique jobs.
Mafia WarsJobs
Jobs operate just like normal ones with one key difference: since this is a casino town, the exclusive currency for Atlantic City is Vegas Chips. Though, for veterans of Sin City, these jobs should be cake with the amount of leftover Chips they should have. While the jobs don't contain the pretty artwork like they do on Facebook, at least completing these contributes to your actual character and not one made up for a poorly executed social app. You can even used your saved Energy packs if you run low.
Mafia Wars Level Up
Leveling up in Atlantic City is just like normal, but again, much faster. So this is what it feels like to be free of Flash, huh? Better yet, you can collect from your properties in all cities (even Italy!), though this city unfortunately doesn't have properties of its own. All in all, Mafia Wars Atlantic City is more than the ultimate companion app; it's nearly an entire city on your phone. With how smoothly the game runs on mobile, we hope this is just the beginning.
Mafia Wars' Super Pignatas return with the same old loot
Just in time for the weekend (though you'll likely be spending much more time here), Super Pignatas have returned to Mafia Wars. Unfortunately, the loot has yet to be updated. So, enjoy the same old items that have been around since these paper mache porkers first hit the scene.
On the upside, at least this gives us another chance at the super powerful Gray Wolf with 127 Attack and 94 Defense. Regardless of how impressive the item is, we wish Zynga would update these items before they're put out again as I'm sure I'm not the only one who's losing interest. It's unsure how long the Super Pignatas will be around for, so act quick if you've yet to score the Gray Wolf. If you've already been so lucky, we hear this new Atlantic City is a hoot.
On the upside, at least this gives us another chance at the super powerful Gray Wolf with 127 Attack and 94 Defense. Regardless of how impressive the item is, we wish Zynga would update these items before they're put out again as I'm sure I'm not the only one who's losing interest. It's unsure how long the Super Pignatas will be around for, so act quick if you've yet to score the Gray Wolf. If you've already been so lucky, we hear this new Atlantic City is a hoot.
Treasure Isle: 10,000 Island Cash Giveaway for finishing Halloween quests
Treasure Isle Halloween Sweepstakes
Halloween might be over, but Zynga are really holding on to the holiday by pushing players to complete all of the Treasure Isle spooky mayhem before it's gone. Announced today, any player who finishes all of the Halloween festivities will be automatically entered in to win 10,000 Island Cash. Could you imagine having that much Island Cash? I'm not even sure what I'd spend on it, but you can bet I'd be extremely happy if I won!
So what does it take? Well, it's not easy. First of all, you have to finish all 5 of the Halloween party quests. Next, you have to master all three of the Ghostship Voyages, which we covered here. Finally, you have to grow your Halloween pumpkin until it reaches full size. Whew, that's a lot of work. It's worth it though for a chance at 10,000 Island Cash. Besides, this will be your last chance to experience all of the Halloween festivities, which were actually a lot of fun in Treasure Isle. You only have until 11/10/2010 to complete everything, and 23 hours if you want to get a guaranteed gold prize of 2,500 coins and 100xp.
Halloween might be over, but Zynga are really holding on to the holiday by pushing players to complete all of the Treasure Isle spooky mayhem before it's gone. Announced today, any player who finishes all of the Halloween festivities will be automatically entered in to win 10,000 Island Cash. Could you imagine having that much Island Cash? I'm not even sure what I'd spend on it, but you can bet I'd be extremely happy if I won!
So what does it take? Well, it's not easy. First of all, you have to finish all 5 of the Halloween party quests. Next, you have to master all three of the Ghostship Voyages, which we covered here. Finally, you have to grow your Halloween pumpkin until it reaches full size. Whew, that's a lot of work. It's worth it though for a chance at 10,000 Island Cash. Besides, this will be your last chance to experience all of the Halloween festivities, which were actually a lot of fun in Treasure Isle. You only have until 11/10/2010 to complete everything, and 23 hours if you want to get a guaranteed gold prize of 2,500 coins and 100xp.
Cafe Life: New Daily Quests offer sweet tasting rewards
Players sure do love their cooking and baking games! Cafe Life has over 2 million players to keep entertained, and if the game's adorable graphics don't do it - these new daily quests might! Today, Cafe Life has released one new special baking quest every day that gives out rewards.
My first quest is called "Hungry Customers", and I have 23 hours to bake 130 servings of Lemon Surprise and brew 132 servings of Cappuccino. This is a pretty easy quest, because each of these recipes give out the required number of servings in only one bake/brew. In addition, the Lemon Surprise takes only 15 minutes, and the Cappuccino takes 5. The quest gives out a sweet 300 coins and 40 xp, so you bet I'll be logging in to complete these quests on a regular basis.
Cafe Life was started to become a bit monotonous for me, as I got into a routine of just logging in to switch whatever I was baking and then logged out. I'm sure I'm not the only one who will be thankful for a new goal to complete each day!
My first quest is called "Hungry Customers", and I have 23 hours to bake 130 servings of Lemon Surprise and brew 132 servings of Cappuccino. This is a pretty easy quest, because each of these recipes give out the required number of servings in only one bake/brew. In addition, the Lemon Surprise takes only 15 minutes, and the Cappuccino takes 5. The quest gives out a sweet 300 coins and 40 xp, so you bet I'll be logging in to complete these quests on a regular basis.
Cafe Life was started to become a bit monotonous for me, as I got into a routine of just logging in to switch whatever I was baking and then logged out. I'm sure I'm not the only one who will be thankful for a new goal to complete each day!
Mall World takes a walk on the wild side with new store
Mall World has just released a new exciting store, especially for those of you who love animal print accessories. In fact, only if you love animal print accessories. The new Wild Things store is two levels of everything safari. Leopard print, jungle accessories, zebra clutch purses, you name it. These items are hot right now for the Fall, so you'll want to deck your avatar and your store out with these fancy animal inspired goodies. Here's what you can find:
Long Sleeve Leopard Mini - 3 Credit
Giraffe Print Sundress - $1,200
Cheetah Fur Coat - $1,200
Zambezi Scarf - $600
Tiger Stripe Boots - 2 Credit
Jungle Cat Pumps - 1 Credit
Namibia Clutch - 1 Credit
Zebra Print Slingbacks - $600
Safari Shades - 2 Credit
Jungle Stripe Necklace - 1 Credit
Safari Bangle - $1,200
Basket Weave Bracelet - 1 Credit
Zebra Tank - $720
Samburu Zebra Dress - 2 Credit
African Beauty Jersey Dress - 1 Credit
Camouflage Tote - $1,200
Wild Herd Heel - 1 Credit
Black Panther Stiletto - $600
Love Cheetah Sandals - $1,200
Ivory Clutch - $600
Wild Wedge - $1,200
Cape Town Jacket - $1,200
Cougar Strapless Dress - 3 Credit
Love Cheetah Cardigan - $6,000
Love Cheetah Clutch - 1 Credit
Tribal Twist Necklace - 1 Credit
There you have it, an entire two floors of animal print goodness for you to buy and enjoy. There is a nice mix of credit and dollar items, so most everyone will be happy by what they find.
Long Sleeve Leopard Mini - 3 Credit
Giraffe Print Sundress - $1,200
Cheetah Fur Coat - $1,200
Zambezi Scarf - $600
Tiger Stripe Boots - 2 Credit
Jungle Cat Pumps - 1 Credit
Namibia Clutch - 1 Credit
Zebra Print Slingbacks - $600
Safari Shades - 2 Credit
Jungle Stripe Necklace - 1 Credit
Safari Bangle - $1,200
Basket Weave Bracelet - 1 Credit
Zebra Tank - $720
Samburu Zebra Dress - 2 Credit
African Beauty Jersey Dress - 1 Credit
Camouflage Tote - $1,200
Wild Herd Heel - 1 Credit
Black Panther Stiletto - $600
Love Cheetah Sandals - $1,200
Ivory Clutch - $600
Wild Wedge - $1,200
Cape Town Jacket - $1,200
Cougar Strapless Dress - 3 Credit
Love Cheetah Cardigan - $6,000
Love Cheetah Clutch - 1 Credit
Tribal Twist Necklace - 1 Credit
There you have it, an entire two floors of animal print goodness for you to buy and enjoy. There is a nice mix of credit and dollar items, so most everyone will be happy by what they find.
Thứ Tư, 1 tháng 2, 2012
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Train Station & Santa's Post Office
In anticipation of the upcoming Winter Holiday season, we've come across new leaked images of some unreleased Winter Holiday items in FarmVille, allowing us to bring you a sneak peek of these items, that may or may not be coming to FarmVille in the near future.
This time around, we have images of a holiday-themed Train Station, and a Santa's Post Office building. The Train Station will go fabulously with the also (as-of-now) unreleased Winter Holiday Train that we told you about a few days ago. We're guessing it will be available for Farm Cash, although there's no official confirmation of that as-of-now.
The other building, the Santa's Post Office is a lovely, colorful building with shipping boxes piled up to one side, showing just how much mail the big man receives every year.
As usual, there is no guarantee that these items will actually be launched in the game, so keep that in mind.
This time around, we have images of a holiday-themed Train Station, and a Santa's Post Office building. The Train Station will go fabulously with the also (as-of-now) unreleased Winter Holiday Train that we told you about a few days ago. We're guessing it will be available for Farm Cash, although there's no official confirmation of that as-of-now.
The other building, the Santa's Post Office is a lovely, colorful building with shipping boxes piled up to one side, showing just how much mail the big man receives every year.
As usual, there is no guarantee that these items will actually be launched in the game, so keep that in mind.
FrontierVille Sneak Peek: Yellow Snow, Train Set, Tangled Lights, Snow Jack & More
If you're looking forward to Winter and Christmas in FrontierVille as much as we are, you'll love looking at these new leaked images of unreleased Winter Holiday items in FrontierVille, which may or may not be launching in the game in the near future.
There are an absolute treasure trove of items available to look at here. Listed from left to right (in the image above), we believe the items are called: Yellow Snow (or Yellow Snow Sign), Train Set, Tangled Lights, Snow Jack, Snow Fox, Santa's Chair, Santa's Sleigh, Pile O' Snowballs, Mistletoe, and Mini Snowman.
These items show off just a portion of what we believe Zynga will be offering in the game this Winter Holiday season, although it is still unknown as to whether or not these items will be those that are available to purchase in the store, whether they are collection items, mission rewards, or even free gifts.
We'll be sure to bring you all of those details as they become available, but remember that there is no guarantee we'll see all or even any of these items in the game.
There are an absolute treasure trove of items available to look at here. Listed from left to right (in the image above), we believe the items are called: Yellow Snow (or Yellow Snow Sign), Train Set, Tangled Lights, Snow Jack, Snow Fox, Santa's Chair, Santa's Sleigh, Pile O' Snowballs, Mistletoe, and Mini Snowman.
These items show off just a portion of what we believe Zynga will be offering in the game this Winter Holiday season, although it is still unknown as to whether or not these items will be those that are available to purchase in the store, whether they are collection items, mission rewards, or even free gifts.
We'll be sure to bring you all of those details as they become available, but remember that there is no guarantee we'll see all or even any of these items in the game.
FrontierVille Sneak Peek: Sack O' Gifts, Luminaires, Nutcrackers, Lighted Fence & More
It's already time for another FrontierVille Sneak Peek of Winter Holiday items, as this new set of unreleased items simply can't be contained! There are tons of new images left to share with you guys, of these items that may or may not be coming to the game this Winter / Holiday season. For a look at the other items we've found, check out this post.
Listed from left to right in the image above, we believe these new items are called: Sack O' Gifts, Red Nutcracker, Green Nutcracker, Blue Nutcracker, Red Luminaire, Luminaire, Green Luminaire, Mini Gingerbread House, Lighted Sleigh, Lighted Sign, Lighted Fence, Lawn Rudolph, Lawn Reindeer, Lawn Buck, Holiday Bells, Festive Sleigh, Holiday Stocking, Candy Stocking, Candy Cane Fence, Ball Ornament.
With simply so many icons to look at, it should be noted that we don't know, as of yet, which of these items will be available to purchase in the store as regular decorations, or whether any of them will be collection items, mission rewards, or even free gifts. Additionally, there is no guarantee that we'll actually see these items released in the game, so keep that in mind.
Listed from left to right in the image above, we believe these new items are called: Sack O' Gifts, Red Nutcracker, Green Nutcracker, Blue Nutcracker, Red Luminaire, Luminaire, Green Luminaire, Mini Gingerbread House, Lighted Sleigh, Lighted Sign, Lighted Fence, Lawn Rudolph, Lawn Reindeer, Lawn Buck, Holiday Bells, Festive Sleigh, Holiday Stocking, Candy Stocking, Candy Cane Fence, Ball Ornament.
With simply so many icons to look at, it should be noted that we don't know, as of yet, which of these items will be available to purchase in the store as regular decorations, or whether any of them will be collection items, mission rewards, or even free gifts. Additionally, there is no guarantee that we'll actually see these items released in the game, so keep that in mind.
FrontierVille Sneak Peek: Winter / Christmas Avatar Costumes
In addition to the loads of decorative, collection, and mission based items we've spotted so far this morning, we've also come across three images of unreleased Winter Holiday costumes in FrontierVille.
Similar to the Halloween costumes, these costumes are for your avatar, and we're assuming they will be available either to purchase from the Tailor Shop, or as rewards for finishing what is sure to be a large line-up of Winter Holiday themed missions.
The three costumes are (from left to right in the image above): Santa Claus Costume, Mrs. Claus Costume, and an Elf Costume.
Again, there is no guarantee that any of these items will officially be released in the game, and any information about their pricing and function is as-of-yet unknown, so keep that in mind.
Similar to the Halloween costumes, these costumes are for your avatar, and we're assuming they will be available either to purchase from the Tailor Shop, or as rewards for finishing what is sure to be a large line-up of Winter Holiday themed missions.
The three costumes are (from left to right in the image above): Santa Claus Costume, Mrs. Claus Costume, and an Elf Costume.
Again, there is no guarantee that any of these items will officially be released in the game, and any information about their pricing and function is as-of-yet unknown, so keep that in mind.
FrontierVille Gift Missions arrive with quests, loot and good cheer
Three new Gift Missions
So, this is what they meant by repeatable. Zynga just released three new sets of Gift Missions in FrontierVille. All of which we already covered here in previews, these missions each come with a bonus item for each purchase and are available for coins.Check out each package and what you'll get below:
Home Heating (500 coins): Heating Your Homestead mission and one of five decorations
Holiday Ready (1,000 coins): Holiday Decoratin' and Holiday Celebratin' missions plus one of four decorations
Winter's a Comin' (2,000 coins): Winter's Journey, Winter's a Comin' and Creature Comforts missions with one of three special holiday animals
Thankfully, all these mission packs cost mere coins and can be bought over and over. Better yet, they don't seem to have an expiration date like the Timed Missions nor do they look like they're going away anytime soon. My guess is that people are going to be scrounging for coins within the next few weeks. Just don't spend too much as a lot of awesome items are incoming too.
So, this is what they meant by repeatable. Zynga just released three new sets of Gift Missions in FrontierVille. All of which we already covered here in previews, these missions each come with a bonus item for each purchase and are available for coins.Check out each package and what you'll get below:
Home Heating (500 coins): Heating Your Homestead mission and one of five decorations
Holiday Ready (1,000 coins): Holiday Decoratin' and Holiday Celebratin' missions plus one of four decorations
Winter's a Comin' (2,000 coins): Winter's Journey, Winter's a Comin' and Creature Comforts missions with one of three special holiday animals
Thankfully, all these mission packs cost mere coins and can be bought over and over. Better yet, they don't seem to have an expiration date like the Timed Missions nor do they look like they're going away anytime soon. My guess is that people are going to be scrounging for coins within the next few weeks. Just don't spend too much as a lot of awesome items are incoming too.
Thứ Hai, 30 tháng 1, 2012
FarmVille: Free Gifts page updated with six new Holiday items, including trees
If you're in the giving mood this holiday season, why not send your FarmVille neighbors some interesting new themed items from the game's free gifts page? There are six holiday items now available to send, with four of them being new to the game, and two being a return from last year's Holiday celebration.
One of the returning items is the Snowflake Pole, and it is the only item of the six that is available to send through traditional means, meaning that you can stay right on Facebook and send it to your friends. The other item, the Giant Lollipop I, is a FarmVille.com exclusive, meaning that you'll have to head over to FarmVille.com and gift them to your Facebook friends from there (the process is the exact same, but you'll just need to be on FarmVille.com to do it).
As for the other, new items, there is a Gold Nutcracker (a redesigned version from last year's Gold Nutcracker, so it technically is a new item), a Red Hanging Bell, and a Holiday Tree that all must also be sent from FarmVille.com, and a White Xmas Tree that is only available to send from the FarmVille app on iPhone/iPad.
The Holiday Tree is especially interesting as it is a real, growing tree, that grows silver and gold ornaments and garland, can be harvested, and can presumably be mastered (as we saw with the then unreleased Mastery Sign in a recent FarmVille Sneak Peek). You'll only be able to send the tree to your friends by logging into FarmVille on your iPhone/iPad and heading to the free gifts menu within the app.
Keep in mind though, that no matter where you are sending your gifts from, you'll still only be able to send one gift to a particular friend everyday, so plan your gifting ahead of time if you want to outfit your friends with all of these items before they're gone.
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
One of the returning items is the Snowflake Pole, and it is the only item of the six that is available to send through traditional means, meaning that you can stay right on Facebook and send it to your friends. The other item, the Giant Lollipop I, is a FarmVille.com exclusive, meaning that you'll have to head over to FarmVille.com and gift them to your Facebook friends from there (the process is the exact same, but you'll just need to be on FarmVille.com to do it).
As for the other, new items, there is a Gold Nutcracker (a redesigned version from last year's Gold Nutcracker, so it technically is a new item), a Red Hanging Bell, and a Holiday Tree that all must also be sent from FarmVille.com, and a White Xmas Tree that is only available to send from the FarmVille app on iPhone/iPad.
The Holiday Tree is especially interesting as it is a real, growing tree, that grows silver and gold ornaments and garland, can be harvested, and can presumably be mastered (as we saw with the then unreleased Mastery Sign in a recent FarmVille Sneak Peek). You'll only be able to send the tree to your friends by logging into FarmVille on your iPhone/iPad and heading to the free gifts menu within the app.
Keep in mind though, that no matter where you are sending your gifts from, you'll still only be able to send one gift to a particular friend everyday, so plan your gifting ahead of time if you want to outfit your friends with all of these items before they're gone.
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
FarmVille Balloon Crop now in store, but unavailable to grow [UPDATE: Now available]
UPDATE: The Balloons Crop has been officially "released" as part of the New Year's Ball Drop / Party Barn event. You'll need to unlock access to planting the crop after having 10 of your friends accept your invitation to your party. Find out all of the details about this new event by clicking on this link.
If you've been looking forward to planting some of the cheerful and colorful Balloon crop seeds in FarmVille as much as we have, you'll be happy to hear that the Balloon Crop has now been spotted in the wild, via an in-game store listing that is now available for players to look at. However, that's all you can do with the crop at the moment, as it is "Locked."
The reasoning for the locked status is that a "License is needed." We'll be sure to let you know how to obtain said license as soon as we can, but in the meantime, let's take a look at the announced stats for this new crop. First, it's cheap, available to grow for just 15 coins per square. It grows for 16 hours, and you'll be able to harvest each square of ready balloons for a return of 126 coins per square.
This looks to be a fairly good crop for lower level players to jump into planting, not only due to its low price, but due to the fact that you'll gain 2 experience points for each and every square of the Balloons that you plant, which might allow some players to level up before all is said and done. Finally, the Balloons Crop can be mastered, with the first star or mastery coming after harvesting just 80 balloons.
When will the Balloons Crop be available to grow? That much is still up in the air, but we'll be sure to let you know when it unlocks, or what you'll need to do in order to unlock it, as more information becomes available.
If you've been looking forward to planting some of the cheerful and colorful Balloon crop seeds in FarmVille as much as we have, you'll be happy to hear that the Balloon Crop has now been spotted in the wild, via an in-game store listing that is now available for players to look at. However, that's all you can do with the crop at the moment, as it is "Locked."
The reasoning for the locked status is that a "License is needed." We'll be sure to let you know how to obtain said license as soon as we can, but in the meantime, let's take a look at the announced stats for this new crop. First, it's cheap, available to grow for just 15 coins per square. It grows for 16 hours, and you'll be able to harvest each square of ready balloons for a return of 126 coins per square.
This looks to be a fairly good crop for lower level players to jump into planting, not only due to its low price, but due to the fact that you'll gain 2 experience points for each and every square of the Balloons that you plant, which might allow some players to level up before all is said and done. Finally, the Balloons Crop can be mastered, with the first star or mastery coming after harvesting just 80 balloons.
When will the Balloons Crop be available to grow? That much is still up in the air, but we'll be sure to let you know when it unlocks, or what you'll need to do in order to unlock it, as more information becomes available.
FarmVille Party Barn / New Year's Ball Drop Event: Everything you need to know
We've known about the upcoming New Year's Party in FarmVille for a few weeks now, but users everywhere have now started to see the New Year's Ball event kick off in the game, with the launch of the Party Barn in the store. While some users have been given the base of the Party Barn for free, others (even after refreshing) have had to resort to purchasing the base for 5,000 coins. Regardless of how you get it onto your farm, it can be upgraded with ingredients to turn into something truly spectacular.
This is another collection event, that is sure to end the year on a high-note with users, thanks to the prizes available via this event, and we have all of the information you need about this year-ending party behind the break.
First things first, if you're like me, and have an overwhelming number of Winter Holiday decorations flooding your farm, leaving you with little free space, you'll need to do some serious reorganization in order to even fit the Party Barn on your land, as it is simply massive.
Once placed, you'll be shown a menu that details all of the aspects of this new event. First and foremost, while this is a collection event in the most basic sense of the word, you'll be collecting friend RSVPs, rather than any actual item. You'll need to invite your friends to your in-game New Year's Ball Drop party, and the more friends that accept your invite, the bigger your party becomes, and the better the rewards that you'll unlock.
As of right now, there are four prizes to unlock for both girl and boy players, but the avatar clothing item therein is different depending on the gender of your in-game avatar. For both genders, three of the prizes are the Fireworks Finale (presumably a one time fireworks show that you can put on, on your farm), an unlock of the Balloons Crop, and a Disco Pony. However, for girl avatars, you'll also be able to unlock a fancy black Party Dress for your avatar, while boys will unlock the black Party Tuxedo for the same amount of "Guests."
You'll earn the Fireworks Finale after 5 guests have been added to your party. 10 Guests unlocks the Balloons Crop, which we told you about earlier this evening (16 hour crop that rewards 2 XP when planted for 15 coins per square; harvestable for 126 coins per square), 20 guests unlocks the avatar clothing item for your specific gender, and reaching the full 40 guest capacity unlocks the Disco Pony, an animal that we told you about recently in a FarmVille Sneak Peek.
To invite guests to your party, you'll need to click on the "Invite" button within the Party Barn menu. This will take you to a menu like the one seen below, where you'll be shown a list of all of your Facebook friends, with each friend having a "Share" button underneath their profile picture. Clicking on the Share button for a particular friend allows you to post an individual invite to that user's wall. If you haven't turned on automatic wall posting within the game (Zynga suggests that you do, but this is entirely voluntary for this event), you'll need to approve each wall post as it goes onto your friends' walls, but automatic posting will speed this process up considerably.
While you're waiting for your "guests to arrive" - their avatars will appear next to your barn, but can be removed by simply clicking on them to clear space, and they will then show up inside your barn on the dance floor - you can take a few moments to upgrade your Party Barn using the standard three ingredients: 8 Wooden Boards, 8 Nails, and 8 Bricks. You can either buy them for 1 Farm Cash each from the store, or you can ask your friends to send them to you via individual gift requests.
Of course, once the barn has been completed, it will be transformed from a simple red barn to a neon, flashing 2011 Party Barn, complete with large crystal ball perched atop a pole from the top of the barn, as seen at the top of this post. Once the party ends at the beginning of the new year, you won't be able to invite anymore of your friends to the party (meaning you won't be able to add more guests to redeem more items), but you will be able to re-watch the ball drop, or purchase prizes you already have enough guests for. In addition, the Party Barn will thankfully be storable.
And there you have it! A complete run-down on FarmVille's last big blowout of 2010. Remember to head into your own game to get the party started!
This is another collection event, that is sure to end the year on a high-note with users, thanks to the prizes available via this event, and we have all of the information you need about this year-ending party behind the break.
First things first, if you're like me, and have an overwhelming number of Winter Holiday decorations flooding your farm, leaving you with little free space, you'll need to do some serious reorganization in order to even fit the Party Barn on your land, as it is simply massive.
Once placed, you'll be shown a menu that details all of the aspects of this new event. First and foremost, while this is a collection event in the most basic sense of the word, you'll be collecting friend RSVPs, rather than any actual item. You'll need to invite your friends to your in-game New Year's Ball Drop party, and the more friends that accept your invite, the bigger your party becomes, and the better the rewards that you'll unlock.
As of right now, there are four prizes to unlock for both girl and boy players, but the avatar clothing item therein is different depending on the gender of your in-game avatar. For both genders, three of the prizes are the Fireworks Finale (presumably a one time fireworks show that you can put on, on your farm), an unlock of the Balloons Crop, and a Disco Pony. However, for girl avatars, you'll also be able to unlock a fancy black Party Dress for your avatar, while boys will unlock the black Party Tuxedo for the same amount of "Guests."
You'll earn the Fireworks Finale after 5 guests have been added to your party. 10 Guests unlocks the Balloons Crop, which we told you about earlier this evening (16 hour crop that rewards 2 XP when planted for 15 coins per square; harvestable for 126 coins per square), 20 guests unlocks the avatar clothing item for your specific gender, and reaching the full 40 guest capacity unlocks the Disco Pony, an animal that we told you about recently in a FarmVille Sneak Peek.
To invite guests to your party, you'll need to click on the "Invite" button within the Party Barn menu. This will take you to a menu like the one seen below, where you'll be shown a list of all of your Facebook friends, with each friend having a "Share" button underneath their profile picture. Clicking on the Share button for a particular friend allows you to post an individual invite to that user's wall. If you haven't turned on automatic wall posting within the game (Zynga suggests that you do, but this is entirely voluntary for this event), you'll need to approve each wall post as it goes onto your friends' walls, but automatic posting will speed this process up considerably.
While you're waiting for your "guests to arrive" - their avatars will appear next to your barn, but can be removed by simply clicking on them to clear space, and they will then show up inside your barn on the dance floor - you can take a few moments to upgrade your Party Barn using the standard three ingredients: 8 Wooden Boards, 8 Nails, and 8 Bricks. You can either buy them for 1 Farm Cash each from the store, or you can ask your friends to send them to you via individual gift requests.
Of course, once the barn has been completed, it will be transformed from a simple red barn to a neon, flashing 2011 Party Barn, complete with large crystal ball perched atop a pole from the top of the barn, as seen at the top of this post. Once the party ends at the beginning of the new year, you won't be able to invite anymore of your friends to the party (meaning you won't be able to add more guests to redeem more items), but you will be able to re-watch the ball drop, or purchase prizes you already have enough guests for. In addition, the Party Barn will thankfully be storable.
And there you have it! A complete run-down on FarmVille's last big blowout of 2010. Remember to head into your own game to get the party started!
New FarmVille Limited Edition Crop: White Poinsettia (requires seed packets)
As part of tonight's FarmVille update, we see the release of a new limited edition crop in the game that flower-lovers will definitely appreciate. The crop is the White Poinsettia, and just like the regular Poinsettia before it, it is a limited time offering that you'll need to be fast to plant and harvest if you want a chance at full mastery.
The White Poinsettias are a crop just like the Black Roses from Halloween, that must be collected in seed packets before they can be planted. You can click on the "Get" button next to the White Poinsettia crop in the store in order to "Ask for more" seed packets, with this allowing you to post a general request to your wall for your friends to see. Since this might be looked over by many players, you might try asking some of your closest neighbors personally to send you some (they are available to send in packets of 20 from the game's free gifts page).
Once you have packets of seeds, you'll be able to plant them and harvest them 16 hours later. You'll get 200 coins for each harvest, and you'll earn 2 experience points for each seed that you plant. As with other crops, the White Poinsettia can be mastered, with the first star of mastery coming at 250 harvests.
The White Poinsettias are a crop just like the Black Roses from Halloween, that must be collected in seed packets before they can be planted. You can click on the "Get" button next to the White Poinsettia crop in the store in order to "Ask for more" seed packets, with this allowing you to post a general request to your wall for your friends to see. Since this might be looked over by many players, you might try asking some of your closest neighbors personally to send you some (they are available to send in packets of 20 from the game's free gifts page).
Once you have packets of seeds, you'll be able to plant them and harvest them 16 hours later. You'll get 200 coins for each harvest, and you'll earn 2 experience points for each seed that you plant. As with other crops, the White Poinsettia can be mastered, with the first star of mastery coming at 250 harvests.
FarmVille Winter Holiday items: Candy Cane Chicken, Winter Castle, Reindeer Balloon & More
If you check out the "Specials" tab of the FarmVille marketplace, you'll see that the middle image has now been transformed to say "Last Chance!" on "Winter Holiday Items!" However, the fact that the Christmas holiday is now just days away hasn't stopped Zynga from adding even more items to this quickly expiring theme.
Tonight's FarmVille update sees the release of a new animal, a new (and very large) building, along with five new decorative items in the game's store. Luckily, the majority of the decorative items are available for coins, so if you've got any extra space on your farm to hold them, be sure to check out all of the details about these new items with us behind the break.
First, the new animal is one that we gave you a Sneak Peek of a few days ago. It is the Candy Cane Chicken, and it is available to purchase for 25 Farm Cash. Candy Cane Chickens, when placed into a Chicken Coop, have a chance of laying a treasured Candy Cane Mystery Egg, which can then be shared with your friends via a generic wall post. As for your own farm, the chicken can be harvested from once per day and will give you 64 coins in the process. The chicken will be available for the next 9 days.
Moving on, the new building is the Winter Castle, another item that we gave you a Sneak Peek of earlier this week. It is available for 42 Farm Cash. You'll receive 4200 experience points as a reward for purchasing it, and if you'd like to sell it once the holiday season is over, you'll receive 21,000 coins in return. That's not very much, so maybe you'd try storing it instead? I know I would.
As for the decorations, four out of the five new items go for coins. The one premium item is the Reindeer Gnome. Gnome collectors better have their in-game wallets ready, as the Gnome will cost 12 Farm Cash to add to your collection. However, if you're willing to make the splurge, you'll receive 1200 experience points as a reward for doing so.
The other four items are the Chilipepper Lights, the Lighted Saguaro cactus, the Reindeer Balloon, and the Stocking Planter, which cost 10,000, 30,000, 50,000, and 5,000 coins, respectively. You'll receive 10% of the purchase price as a reward in experience points (100 for the Lights, 300 for the cactus, 500 for the balloon, and 50 for the planter). It should be noted that the Reindeer Balloon is yet another large item to be released in this theme. The base itself isn't large, but the balloon portion is, so it will probably block your view of whatever sits near it / behind it.
And there you have it! Presumably the final addition of Winter Holiday items in FarmVille for the year, which will be available for the next nine days. We'll be sure to let you know if Zynga adds any other decorative items to the game, but until then, happy holidays!
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
Tonight's FarmVille update sees the release of a new animal, a new (and very large) building, along with five new decorative items in the game's store. Luckily, the majority of the decorative items are available for coins, so if you've got any extra space on your farm to hold them, be sure to check out all of the details about these new items with us behind the break.
First, the new animal is one that we gave you a Sneak Peek of a few days ago. It is the Candy Cane Chicken, and it is available to purchase for 25 Farm Cash. Candy Cane Chickens, when placed into a Chicken Coop, have a chance of laying a treasured Candy Cane Mystery Egg, which can then be shared with your friends via a generic wall post. As for your own farm, the chicken can be harvested from once per day and will give you 64 coins in the process. The chicken will be available for the next 9 days.
Moving on, the new building is the Winter Castle, another item that we gave you a Sneak Peek of earlier this week. It is available for 42 Farm Cash. You'll receive 4200 experience points as a reward for purchasing it, and if you'd like to sell it once the holiday season is over, you'll receive 21,000 coins in return. That's not very much, so maybe you'd try storing it instead? I know I would.
As for the decorations, four out of the five new items go for coins. The one premium item is the Reindeer Gnome. Gnome collectors better have their in-game wallets ready, as the Gnome will cost 12 Farm Cash to add to your collection. However, if you're willing to make the splurge, you'll receive 1200 experience points as a reward for doing so.
The other four items are the Chilipepper Lights, the Lighted Saguaro cactus, the Reindeer Balloon, and the Stocking Planter, which cost 10,000, 30,000, 50,000, and 5,000 coins, respectively. You'll receive 10% of the purchase price as a reward in experience points (100 for the Lights, 300 for the cactus, 500 for the balloon, and 50 for the planter). It should be noted that the Reindeer Balloon is yet another large item to be released in this theme. The base itself isn't large, but the balloon portion is, so it will probably block your view of whatever sits near it / behind it.
And there you have it! Presumably the final addition of Winter Holiday items in FarmVille for the year, which will be available for the next nine days. We'll be sure to let you know if Zynga adds any other decorative items to the game, but until then, happy holidays!
Check out the rest of our Holiday 2010 coverage right here.
Thứ Tư, 11 tháng 1, 2012
Report: Pottermore will be Harry Potter's online gaming hub [Updated]
Soon enough, you'll become a wizard of the worldwide web in Pottermore, which The London Times (subscription required) reports will be an online gaming hub for all things Harry Potter. The website was revealed last week, which of course sent Potter fans into a whirlwind of wizardly guesswork as to what Pottermore would be.
And while author J.K. Rowling promises to officially reveal more details this June 23, this leak found by the London Times confirms what many a fan might have hoped for.
Pottermore will reportedly be an online game website that will grant players clues to the locations of hidden prizes in the real world, most notably of which are magic wands in the U.K. and US.
We also know that the project is being handled by Adam & Eve, a UK-based PR firm. Since everything is still up in the air, my (hopeful) guess is that this is a Harry Potter social game. Until we find out more information, fuel your hype with this special YouTube countdown timer until the official reveal in 16 long hours.
Update: Author J.K. Rowling has revealed that Pottermore will not be a social game, but an interactive reading experience for Harry Potter fans. It will offer audio books, and, for the first time e-books for all of the Harry Potter series. However, there will be virtual rewards for tasks completed on the site, Mashable reports. Check out Rowling's message to you, the loyal Potter-heads, below:
And while author J.K. Rowling promises to officially reveal more details this June 23, this leak found by the London Times confirms what many a fan might have hoped for.
Pottermore will reportedly be an online game website that will grant players clues to the locations of hidden prizes in the real world, most notably of which are magic wands in the U.K. and US.
We also know that the project is being handled by Adam & Eve, a UK-based PR firm. Since everything is still up in the air, my (hopeful) guess is that this is a Harry Potter social game. Until we find out more information, fuel your hype with this special YouTube countdown timer until the official reveal in 16 long hours.
Update: Author J.K. Rowling has revealed that Pottermore will not be a social game, but an interactive reading experience for Harry Potter fans. It will offer audio books, and, for the first time e-books for all of the Harry Potter series. However, there will be virtual rewards for tasks completed on the site, Mashable reports. Check out Rowling's message to you, the loyal Potter-heads, below:
Infinity Blade slashes into Mobage, DeNA's mobile social game network
Infinity Blade
Oh, and it'll be 100 percent free. It appears that Japanese social network provider DeNA has devised a way to combat Zynga in the mobile space: hardcore games at a casual price. VentureBeat reports that Infinity Blade developer Chair and publisher Epic Games have agreed to bring the iPhone hit to Mobage, re-marketed as Infinity Blade X. The game will play the same as if you downloaded it from the Apple App Store, but the game will be completely free. (Of course, the game will be supported by micro-transactions.)
Infinity Blade is an intense mobile game with hardcore-looking graphics, but a casual play style and replay value. Players must slay increasingly tough monsters, slashing them and blasting them with spells through touch gestures. You can block and parry enemy attacks with touch as well to defend yourself, but reaching and defeating the evil God-King (which will take several attempts) is only the beginning.
The global Mobage network has been announced for both iOS and Android devices. But whether Infinity Blade X will be made available for Android phones--it was created to the specific strengths of the iPhone 4 and later the iPad 2--is currently unknown. This is especially considering Epic Games ruled the game out for Android phones in April. This is second game announced for DeNA's Mobage (made by Ngmoco), as the company revealed that a Professor Layton game is in the works as well.
If this is how DeNA plans to oust Zynga in the mobile games arena, then Zynga just might want to step out of its casual shell and deliver. It's just recently that the company has started to release more mobile games like Hanging with Friends and CityVille Hometown, which is on the way. With DeNA hot on its tail--and its hands dipped into multiple genres--it's time to get a move on.
Oh, and it'll be 100 percent free. It appears that Japanese social network provider DeNA has devised a way to combat Zynga in the mobile space: hardcore games at a casual price. VentureBeat reports that Infinity Blade developer Chair and publisher Epic Games have agreed to bring the iPhone hit to Mobage, re-marketed as Infinity Blade X. The game will play the same as if you downloaded it from the Apple App Store, but the game will be completely free. (Of course, the game will be supported by micro-transactions.)
Infinity Blade is an intense mobile game with hardcore-looking graphics, but a casual play style and replay value. Players must slay increasingly tough monsters, slashing them and blasting them with spells through touch gestures. You can block and parry enemy attacks with touch as well to defend yourself, but reaching and defeating the evil God-King (which will take several attempts) is only the beginning.
The global Mobage network has been announced for both iOS and Android devices. But whether Infinity Blade X will be made available for Android phones--it was created to the specific strengths of the iPhone 4 and later the iPad 2--is currently unknown. This is especially considering Epic Games ruled the game out for Android phones in April. This is second game announced for DeNA's Mobage (made by Ngmoco), as the company revealed that a Professor Layton game is in the works as well.
If this is how DeNA plans to oust Zynga in the mobile games arena, then Zynga just might want to step out of its casual shell and deliver. It's just recently that the company has started to release more mobile games like Hanging with Friends and CityVille Hometown, which is on the way. With DeNA hot on its tail--and its hands dipped into multiple genres--it's time to get a move on.
Rumor: Bejeweled-maker PopCap to sell for over $1 billion
You know, the more rumors about PopCap there are, the more chances we have to bug the company about bringing Peggle to Facebook. The freshest from the mill is that PopCap is preparing for another acquisition ... this time of itself to another company. TechCrunch reports that, according to anonymous sources, the company will soon sell for over $1 billion, though no buyers have been officially mentioned yet.
Of course, this leaves the table wide open for wild speculation. TechCrunch says, according to anonymous sources, that Zynga approached PopCap with the intention to purchase, but backed down after PopCap named its price. The website has also heard that EA could be the lucky shopper, but $1 billion is a far cry from the $400 million it paid for Playfish in 2009. That all being said, a source close to the matter tells us there's currently no internal information on the sale.
But let's play devil's advocated for a moment. Why would PopCap suddenly sell when it has openly stated its intent on filing for initial public offering (IPO) by the end of this year? I'd imagine that since this is, in fact, the case, PopCap would ask for far more than $1 billion, and any more than that would just be ridiculous. An IPO that low these days just sounds silly, especially for a company that has been around for over 10 years. (For reference, the Pandora Internet radio service just filed for a $2.4 billion IPO, and it's only been around since about 2005.)
Furthermore, the company just purchased ZipZapPlay with the goal of increasing its presence on Facebook--that doesn't sound like a move a company that's ready to sell would make. Simply put, PopCap just doesn't seem like the type to sell, but we could easily be proven otherwise. Rumors or not, this summer will prove mighty interesting for PopCap--even if there's no Peggle for Facebook.
Of course, this leaves the table wide open for wild speculation. TechCrunch says, according to anonymous sources, that Zynga approached PopCap with the intention to purchase, but backed down after PopCap named its price. The website has also heard that EA could be the lucky shopper, but $1 billion is a far cry from the $400 million it paid for Playfish in 2009. That all being said, a source close to the matter tells us there's currently no internal information on the sale.
But let's play devil's advocated for a moment. Why would PopCap suddenly sell when it has openly stated its intent on filing for initial public offering (IPO) by the end of this year? I'd imagine that since this is, in fact, the case, PopCap would ask for far more than $1 billion, and any more than that would just be ridiculous. An IPO that low these days just sounds silly, especially for a company that has been around for over 10 years. (For reference, the Pandora Internet radio service just filed for a $2.4 billion IPO, and it's only been around since about 2005.)
Furthermore, the company just purchased ZipZapPlay with the goal of increasing its presence on Facebook--that doesn't sound like a move a company that's ready to sell would make. Simply put, PopCap just doesn't seem like the type to sell, but we could easily be proven otherwise. Rumors or not, this summer will prove mighty interesting for PopCap--even if there's no Peggle for Facebook.
Rumor: EA to buy PopCap for over $1 billion
Bejeweled
Now, this is a last ditch effort if we've ever seen one. TechCrunch reports that, following up with yesterday's news that PopCap may sell for over $1 billion, EA may very well be the company at the checkout counter. The website cites two anonymous sources that point to the nearly 30-year-old games company as the buyer. And no, the asking price has not changed--it's still insane.
But EA, which has enjoyed a distant second to Zynga in the social space, just might be crazy enough to bid what TechCrunch reports is 13 percent of their $7 billion plus market cap. This could truly be the company's Hail Mary Pass to win the social and mobile race once and for all, especially considering how long it could take EA to make all that money back.
We thought it was crazy when EA bought Playfish in 2009 for a whopping $400 million, but this clearly blows that out of the water. Unfortunately, neither company has enjoyed the runaway success both likely had hoped for. (You don't spend $400 million, much less $1 billion for second place.) So we can only hope that, if this buyout goes down, EA doesn't repeat history with PopCap.
If this purchase happens, the Bejeweled creator will obviously put its imminent IPO (initial public offering) on hold. As of this writing, a source close to the matter tells us there's currently no internal information on the sale.
Now, this is a last ditch effort if we've ever seen one. TechCrunch reports that, following up with yesterday's news that PopCap may sell for over $1 billion, EA may very well be the company at the checkout counter. The website cites two anonymous sources that point to the nearly 30-year-old games company as the buyer. And no, the asking price has not changed--it's still insane.
But EA, which has enjoyed a distant second to Zynga in the social space, just might be crazy enough to bid what TechCrunch reports is 13 percent of their $7 billion plus market cap. This could truly be the company's Hail Mary Pass to win the social and mobile race once and for all, especially considering how long it could take EA to make all that money back.
We thought it was crazy when EA bought Playfish in 2009 for a whopping $400 million, but this clearly blows that out of the water. Unfortunately, neither company has enjoyed the runaway success both likely had hoped for. (You don't spend $400 million, much less $1 billion for second place.) So we can only hope that, if this buyout goes down, EA doesn't repeat history with PopCap.
If this purchase happens, the Bejeweled creator will obviously put its imminent IPO (initial public offering) on hold. As of this writing, a source close to the matter tells us there's currently no internal information on the sale.
Scrubs will live on in iPhone, Android game this summer
So what if the hit medical sitcom was canceled last year. Scrubs ain't goin' nowhere, thanks to a mobile game that developer Herocraft plans to release this summer. Pocket Gamer reports that the game will be available for iPhone, Android, Symbian and Windows Phone devices.
Scrubs mobile game 2
In this pocket edition of Scrubs, players will assume the role of a new intern at Sacred Hearts in a brand new storyline that will feature the show's lovable and laughable characters like Dr. Cox and The Janitor. Judging from the screen shots provided by Pocket Gamer, it looks like Herocraft is making a hidden object game like the wildly popular Gardens of Time on Facebook. Since the show's major characters will appear in the game, you can (hopefully) expect some one-liners dashed amongst the puzzles.
Scrubs mobile game 2
In this pocket edition of Scrubs, players will assume the role of a new intern at Sacred Hearts in a brand new storyline that will feature the show's lovable and laughable characters like Dr. Cox and The Janitor. Judging from the screen shots provided by Pocket Gamer, it looks like Herocraft is making a hidden object game like the wildly popular Gardens of Time on Facebook. Since the show's major characters will appear in the game, you can (hopefully) expect some one-liners dashed amongst the puzzles.
Thứ Ba, 10 tháng 1, 2012
Order & Chaos Online's Gameloft hits the bayou in New Orleans studio
The land of Mardi Gras and jambalaya will soon be known for another, more international pastime: video games. Gameloft, creator of mobile and Facebook games like Order & Chaos Online and N.O.V.A. Elite, has announced that it will open a studio in New Orleans, La. beginning Oct. 1 of this year. The Paris-based worldwide mobile games publisher is moving to the unofficial French capital of the states early with the promise that it will move into a more permanent location in 2012.
According to The Advertiser, Gameloft plans to hire 20 employees with the goal of creating its first locally-developed game within its first year. So, expect the first game to come from Gameloft New Orleans by October of 2012, and by then the company expects the studio to house at least 53 employees. Later, the studio is expected to grow to over 100 more employees to join Gameloft's 4,000-strong global talent force.
"As we seek to expand our presence in the U.S. we are looking for the most talented gaming professionals to help us maintain our position as an industry leader in digital and social games," said Gameloft studio GM Samir El Agili. We sure hope that these future developers have a better time than some reportedly did in Gameloft New Zealand. Then again, there's no way that could possibly happen in one of the party capitals of the U.S, right?
According to The Advertiser, Gameloft plans to hire 20 employees with the goal of creating its first locally-developed game within its first year. So, expect the first game to come from Gameloft New Orleans by October of 2012, and by then the company expects the studio to house at least 53 employees. Later, the studio is expected to grow to over 100 more employees to join Gameloft's 4,000-strong global talent force.
"As we seek to expand our presence in the U.S. we are looking for the most talented gaming professionals to help us maintain our position as an industry leader in digital and social games," said Gameloft studio GM Samir El Agili. We sure hope that these future developers have a better time than some reportedly did in Gameloft New Zealand. Then again, there's no way that could possibly happen in one of the party capitals of the U.S, right?
Facebook: Google charges '5% because they don't have any users'
In my alley, them's fightin' words. The words came from the mouth of Facebook Director of Games Partnerships Sean Ryan during an event last week, Fortune reports. More specifically, Ryan is referring to the fact that Google takes just a 5 percent cut in revenues from developers with games hosted on its fresh Google+ social platform. Compare that to Facebook's whopping 30 percent through its Facebook Credits payment system, and you can see why Ryan would have such strong words for Google.
According to Fortune, Ryan likened Google's entry into the social games space to when McDonald's entered the premium coffee biz, where Starbucks has reigned supreme. (Fortune also cleverly points out that coffee has been huge for Mickey D's.) Google launched Google+ Games just last week with support from several major developers including Zynga, EA (and PopCap) and Wooga--three of the largest Facebook game developers today.
And Fortune reports that Google+ already has 25 million registered users, so it's growing rather quickly. Regardless, Google still has a ways to go in the face of Facebook's gargantuan 750 million-strong user base, not to mention a whopping 270 million monthly social gamers. If anything, it's simply amusing to see Facebook squirm ... at least just a little bit. Let's just wait and see if Google+ Games can turn those squirms into shivers.
According to Fortune, Ryan likened Google's entry into the social games space to when McDonald's entered the premium coffee biz, where Starbucks has reigned supreme. (Fortune also cleverly points out that coffee has been huge for Mickey D's.) Google launched Google+ Games just last week with support from several major developers including Zynga, EA (and PopCap) and Wooga--three of the largest Facebook game developers today.
And Fortune reports that Google+ already has 25 million registered users, so it's growing rather quickly. Regardless, Google still has a ways to go in the face of Facebook's gargantuan 750 million-strong user base, not to mention a whopping 270 million monthly social gamers. If anything, it's simply amusing to see Facebook squirm ... at least just a little bit. Let's just wait and see if Google+ Games can turn those squirms into shivers.
Sony PS Vita adds standard social features to its 'revolutionary' arsenal
When it's the nauseating buzz word of the decade, who can blame 'em? Sony's Jim Ryan revealed today during the company's keynote at Gamescom in Cologne, Germany that its upcoming PSP successor, the PS Vita, will have support for a number of social networks, Kotaku reports. Ryan touted that the Vita will allow players to access Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare and even call their friends using Skype.
I can think of, well, hundreds of devices you can access all four of those services on, play games and (drum roll, please) ... make phone calls with. They're called smartphones, and they are exactly what Sony is looking at every time it utters the words "social gaming revolution." Honestly, I'd be more wowed if the Vita didn't include these features considering its aggressive approach to social gaming thus far. Not to mention existing PSPs can already make Skype calls and access Facebook.
Now, if game developers make liberal use of these social networks as gameplay mechanics, then I'd almost certainly be impressed. (And no, I'm not implying that FarmVille belongs on the PS Vita.) Pokes and prods almost aside, these features look to be supplemental to what Sony calls "revolutionary" social features like Near, Live and Party. But honestly, at this point, couldn't Sony have just made this the PlayStation Phone? Hey, I'm just sayin'. Check out video of the announcement below:
I can think of, well, hundreds of devices you can access all four of those services on, play games and (drum roll, please) ... make phone calls with. They're called smartphones, and they are exactly what Sony is looking at every time it utters the words "social gaming revolution." Honestly, I'd be more wowed if the Vita didn't include these features considering its aggressive approach to social gaming thus far. Not to mention existing PSPs can already make Skype calls and access Facebook.
Now, if game developers make liberal use of these social networks as gameplay mechanics, then I'd almost certainly be impressed. (And no, I'm not implying that FarmVille belongs on the PS Vita.) Pokes and prods almost aside, these features look to be supplemental to what Sony calls "revolutionary" social features like Near, Live and Party. But honestly, at this point, couldn't Sony have just made this the PlayStation Phone? Hey, I'm just sayin'. Check out video of the announcement below:
Turkish bank earns 500k fans by offering Facebook games
These days, many companies are turning to Facebook games as a way of connecting with and building their audience (e.g. Channel 4's Beauty Town). But one pioneering company, a Turkish bank called Akbank, is really throwing themselves into their official Facebook page.
As of this writing, Akbank's Facebook page has 508,397 fans. The bank itself has 913 branches serving 8 million customers, and they've been managing a total of 15 social media accounts between Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. They've also created 5 Facebook applications, some of which, are games promoting their brand.
One of these games, Kur Yönet, which translates into "Manage the Exchange Rate", allows users to build a virtual factory that involves everything from production to marketing to R&D. All banking, of course, is handled by the Akbank branch within the game.
Akbank Kur Yönet Facebook game
Another game, Kırmızı'nın Peşinde or "The Pursuit of the Red", is based on Pac-Man and comes with a super dramatic game trailer (shown below). Your characters run around each level collecting personal needs (e.g. education, vacation, home renovations). Ads are shown in-between level changes.
Aside from these two, there's also been a music trivia page offering free concert tickets that was targeted at the youth, a gift cards giveaway page on applying for personal loans, and another trivia game involving current events in Turkish history that later tells players how much money they could've made if only they opened a Cumulative Mutual Fund account on a certain date. These are all a bit of a stretch, but Akbank seems completely devoted to pushing their brand, wherever, whenever, and however possible. Moreover, it appears that all their efforts have paid off.
As of this writing, Akbank's Facebook page has 508,397 fans. The bank itself has 913 branches serving 8 million customers, and they've been managing a total of 15 social media accounts between Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. They've also created 5 Facebook applications, some of which, are games promoting their brand.
One of these games, Kur Yönet, which translates into "Manage the Exchange Rate", allows users to build a virtual factory that involves everything from production to marketing to R&D. All banking, of course, is handled by the Akbank branch within the game.
Akbank Kur Yönet Facebook game
Another game, Kırmızı'nın Peşinde or "The Pursuit of the Red", is based on Pac-Man and comes with a super dramatic game trailer (shown below). Your characters run around each level collecting personal needs (e.g. education, vacation, home renovations). Ads are shown in-between level changes.
Aside from these two, there's also been a music trivia page offering free concert tickets that was targeted at the youth, a gift cards giveaway page on applying for personal loans, and another trivia game involving current events in Turkish history that later tells players how much money they could've made if only they opened a Cumulative Mutual Fund account on a certain date. These are all a bit of a stretch, but Akbank seems completely devoted to pushing their brand, wherever, whenever, and however possible. Moreover, it appears that all their efforts have paid off.
Market Street becomes the seventh Playdom game to shut down
Players who attempt to log into Playdom's game Market Street right now will be greeted with a message stating that the game has been removed for good. This colorful and lively simulation game puts the player in charge of running their own virtual store. While the game was polished and relatively fun, it didn't bring anything new to the crowded world of Facebook sim games. Players could decorate their isometric shop and send away for shipments so that they could please the customers that come inside to purchase wares. Market Street launched approximately one year ago.
At its peak, Market Street hit over 9 million monthly active users and over 1 million daily players, however that was in 2010 and the Facebook game landscape has grown much more crowded since its heyday. Playdom has a history of closing down games that aren't faring so well, such as Treetopia, Tiki Farm, Tiki Resort, Verdonia, Fanglies, and Lil' Farm Life. In fact, Playdom have closed more games than most developers will ever launch. With the release of Gnome Town, it is clear that Playdom are now focusing on richer and more innovative titles to set them apart from the competition.
The sad thing about games closing down is that the players not only lose any progress, coins, or hard currency that they purchased, but they also lose all their hard work decorating their space. Many players become quite attached to these spaces and it is quite sad to have to say goodbye to something you worked so hard on. It's too bad that Playdom and other developers cannot keep the games up but cease to update them. Unfortunately, the operating costs are too high to keep a game running that isn't showing much traction.
At its peak, Market Street hit over 9 million monthly active users and over 1 million daily players, however that was in 2010 and the Facebook game landscape has grown much more crowded since its heyday. Playdom has a history of closing down games that aren't faring so well, such as Treetopia, Tiki Farm, Tiki Resort, Verdonia, Fanglies, and Lil' Farm Life. In fact, Playdom have closed more games than most developers will ever launch. With the release of Gnome Town, it is clear that Playdom are now focusing on richer and more innovative titles to set them apart from the competition.
The sad thing about games closing down is that the players not only lose any progress, coins, or hard currency that they purchased, but they also lose all their hard work decorating their space. Many players become quite attached to these spaces and it is quite sad to have to say goodbye to something you worked so hard on. It's too bad that Playdom and other developers cannot keep the games up but cease to update them. Unfortunately, the operating costs are too high to keep a game running that isn't showing much traction.
Thứ Hai, 9 tháng 1, 2012
FrontierVille: Bess has arrived, but what brings her to the frontier?
Bess has arrived
As part of the recent New Year's Party Goals, we were briefly introduced to a new character in FrontierVille named Bess. Reportedly Frontier Jack's niece, Bess will be the next major character in FrontierVille, but as to what she's up to or why she even came out west we haven't an idea in the slightest. Though, that hasn't stopped Zynga from fueling the flames of wild speculation. The company posted a three-page long forum thread on the FrontierVille fan page that has players discussing the possibilities for this new character.
During the New Year's Party Goals and building the Dance Floor, some hints were made at a potential love triangle between Miss Fanny Wildcat, the mysterious Bess and Hank, that lecherous General Store manager. The most logical guess is that this will be the basis for an upcoming Valentine's Day holiday event series. But the teaser message that many are seeing in-game mentions that Bess will be heavily involved in the events for 2011, so it's doubtful that this homestead drama will be settled on Feb. 14. Could one of our lovestruck ladies receive some good news in time for Mother's Day? We'll have to keep playing to find out.
As part of the recent New Year's Party Goals, we were briefly introduced to a new character in FrontierVille named Bess. Reportedly Frontier Jack's niece, Bess will be the next major character in FrontierVille, but as to what she's up to or why she even came out west we haven't an idea in the slightest. Though, that hasn't stopped Zynga from fueling the flames of wild speculation. The company posted a three-page long forum thread on the FrontierVille fan page that has players discussing the possibilities for this new character.
During the New Year's Party Goals and building the Dance Floor, some hints were made at a potential love triangle between Miss Fanny Wildcat, the mysterious Bess and Hank, that lecherous General Store manager. The most logical guess is that this will be the basis for an upcoming Valentine's Day holiday event series. But the teaser message that many are seeing in-game mentions that Bess will be heavily involved in the events for 2011, so it's doubtful that this homestead drama will be settled on Feb. 14. Could one of our lovestruck ladies receive some good news in time for Mother's Day? We'll have to keep playing to find out.
FarmVille Sneak Peek: Duck Pond images revealed, launching soon?
FarmVille Duck Pond
Yeah, yeah. So, you already know that the Duck Pond is coming to FarmVille. But have you seen these brand new images of the incoming item yet? Thanks again to FarmVille Freak, we've found several snap shots of both the Duck Pond in progress and the finished product. And it looks... more natural than what I was expecting. The thing doesn't even look man-made.
Stage One Stage Two Stage Three
The Duck Pond will be built in three stages, if these images turn out to be correct. Like most constructed and functional buildings, this will most likely take items from gifting requests to complete. And if our original coverage of the Duck Pond proves to be the case, then there will be four different items to collect and 10 of each item. What isn't known yet is what purpose the Duck Pond will serve beyond a pretty place for our Ducks to play in. Hopefully, Zynga thinks something up for Ducks to be useful like it did with the Pigpen and Truffle Hunting. Stay tuned for details when this item finally makes its way onto the farm, which we guess will be fairly soon considering how many details we have.
Yeah, yeah. So, you already know that the Duck Pond is coming to FarmVille. But have you seen these brand new images of the incoming item yet? Thanks again to FarmVille Freak, we've found several snap shots of both the Duck Pond in progress and the finished product. And it looks... more natural than what I was expecting. The thing doesn't even look man-made.
Stage One Stage Two Stage Three
The Duck Pond will be built in three stages, if these images turn out to be correct. Like most constructed and functional buildings, this will most likely take items from gifting requests to complete. And if our original coverage of the Duck Pond proves to be the case, then there will be four different items to collect and 10 of each item. What isn't known yet is what purpose the Duck Pond will serve beyond a pretty place for our Ducks to play in. Hopefully, Zynga thinks something up for Ducks to be useful like it did with the Pigpen and Truffle Hunting. Stay tuned for details when this item finally makes its way onto the farm, which we guess will be fairly soon considering how many details we have.
CityVille Lost Puppy Goal: A ploy to attract more players
Lost Puppy Needs a Home
A new Goal--if you would call it that--has arrived in CityVille. Titled, "Lost Puppy Needs a Home," this new task requires players to ask their friends to adopt a brown puppy that they happened to find walking down the street. However, both neighbors and general Facebook friends can be requested. Furthermore, this technically isn't even a Goal. It appears to be just another way to attract new players to the game through you, the player. (I guess over 90 million players isn't enough.)
Puppy request
After sending out the requests, no Goal icon appears on the left side of the screen and no XP, coins or Goods are rewarded. Nada. In other words, this is a fine waste of your daily requests. So, do try to avoid it if you have no friends that are willing to join CityVille. If you think this would be a cute way to get your friends who have yet to try CityVille into the game, then by all means throw a couple puppies out there. Regardless, it begs the question: If there is no benefit to sending this request to fellow neighbors, then why include the option? Very sneaky, Zynga.
Did you fall for this trick yet? What do you think of Zynga using your daily requests as a means to net more players?
A new Goal--if you would call it that--has arrived in CityVille. Titled, "Lost Puppy Needs a Home," this new task requires players to ask their friends to adopt a brown puppy that they happened to find walking down the street. However, both neighbors and general Facebook friends can be requested. Furthermore, this technically isn't even a Goal. It appears to be just another way to attract new players to the game through you, the player. (I guess over 90 million players isn't enough.)
Puppy request
After sending out the requests, no Goal icon appears on the left side of the screen and no XP, coins or Goods are rewarded. Nada. In other words, this is a fine waste of your daily requests. So, do try to avoid it if you have no friends that are willing to join CityVille. If you think this would be a cute way to get your friends who have yet to try CityVille into the game, then by all means throw a couple puppies out there. Regardless, it begs the question: If there is no benefit to sending this request to fellow neighbors, then why include the option? Very sneaky, Zynga.
Did you fall for this trick yet? What do you think of Zynga using your daily requests as a means to net more players?
FarmVille Special Delivery Boxes get 'Open All' feature, save headaches
With the amount of Special Delivery Boxes that some FarmVille players have to open daily, unpacking them individually was becoming a lengthy chore. Thankfully, Zynga introduced a small update to the game recently that allows players to open every Special Delivery Box in their inventory at once, FarmVille Freak reports. With this new 'Open All' feature precious minutes have been restored to many players' short farming sessions.
However, this doesn't remedy the other problem with Special Delivery Boxes: high level players simply don't need them. A few months ago, there were players who expressed their disdain for the smart items because they simply were on top of their game and didn't need 500 extra Bricks, so to speak. Until that improvement comes, just be smart about who you're sending Special Delivery Boxes. If a player is over Level 100, you might help more by leaving them be or sending some Fertilize All.
However, this doesn't remedy the other problem with Special Delivery Boxes: high level players simply don't need them. A few months ago, there were players who expressed their disdain for the smart items because they simply were on top of their game and didn't need 500 extra Bricks, so to speak. Until that improvement comes, just be smart about who you're sending Special Delivery Boxes. If a player is over Level 100, you might help more by leaving them be or sending some Fertilize All.
CityVille Cheats and Tips: Expansion costs and limits
Expansions in CityVille
While we've touched on Expansions a few times in CityVille, we still have yet to get to the bottom of how much they cost in both coins and permits as you progress. Not to mention how many Expansions are open to us. But first, a brief recap: Expansions are 12x12 spaces of land that players can attach to any of the four edges of their cities... for a price. And a hefty one at that. On top of an increasingly hefty coin fee, players will also need to collect Zoning Permits that match the total number of Expansions they're about to obtain.
For instance, the first Expansion will cost you the standard 20,000 coins and one Zoning Permit, but your second Expansion will not only cost much more, but will now require two Zoning Permits. If you make it to say, your fifteenth Expansion, you'll spend a massive amount of coins plus need 15 Zoning Permits. As you can imagine, expanding will become much more difficult as you progress regardless of whether you're swimming in coins. In fact, many players are currently disappointed in the Expansion system, claiming that it costs too much for too little. As for how far we can go, it's currently unknown if there is even a limit to how far we can expand our cities. At the moment, it is assumed that we can expand as far as the map extends. In other words, there should be plenty of room.
While we've touched on Expansions a few times in CityVille, we still have yet to get to the bottom of how much they cost in both coins and permits as you progress. Not to mention how many Expansions are open to us. But first, a brief recap: Expansions are 12x12 spaces of land that players can attach to any of the four edges of their cities... for a price. And a hefty one at that. On top of an increasingly hefty coin fee, players will also need to collect Zoning Permits that match the total number of Expansions they're about to obtain.
For instance, the first Expansion will cost you the standard 20,000 coins and one Zoning Permit, but your second Expansion will not only cost much more, but will now require two Zoning Permits. If you make it to say, your fifteenth Expansion, you'll spend a massive amount of coins plus need 15 Zoning Permits. As you can imagine, expanding will become much more difficult as you progress regardless of whether you're swimming in coins. In fact, many players are currently disappointed in the Expansion system, claiming that it costs too much for too little. As for how far we can go, it's currently unknown if there is even a limit to how far we can expand our cities. At the moment, it is assumed that we can expand as far as the map extends. In other words, there should be plenty of room.
Thứ Bảy, 7 tháng 1, 2012
FrontierVille Cheats and Tips: A Characters Guide
Some would say that FrontierVille was and still is Zynga's great experiment. It was the first time the company brought in a traditional game designer to work on a project, and among several new features the primary result was characters. Seasoned gamers know them simply as NPCs, or non-player characters, meaning they are characters in the game world controlled by the game itself. Normally, their main focus is to provide flavor and life to a game world, but characters in FrontierVille has a two-fold purpose: provide that life and flavor in addition to guide the player along in Goals or give these Goals purpose. Here's a rundown of nearly every important character to grace the homestead.
Frontier Jack
Frontier Jack:
How could we start this guide any other way? He's the first fellow you meet in the game. Generally, this bearded pioneer guides you through your first tasks in FrontierVille and comes back every once in a while when a new feature crops up. However, he has become more involved in the game's storyline as time has passed. In fact, his own niece has arrived in the game, but more on that later. More importantly, he's your first neighbor. (He also has a thing for inundating you with pop ups.)
Humble Bob
Humble Bob:
Now, this one is a strange character. While Bob does offer a few quests like the recent New Years Resolution Goals, he's also the game's resident salesman. It's Humble Bob that attempts to sell you Horseshoes incessantly at 20, 30 and 40 percent discounts. Bob likes to get in on the fun too, as many of you saw after completing the New Years Party Goals.
Ms Fanny Wildcat
Miss Fanny Wildcat:
Likely the toughest-looking teacher you've ever seen, Fanny Wildcat runs the Schoolhouse and all of its Goals. There are several Goals in preparation for her arrival and thereafter. However, there seems to be love triangle rising between Hank, Bess and herself. Perhaps this year's Valentine's Day Goals will see the result of that.
Hank
Hank:
This simple-minded guy runs the General Store after a few Goals are completed to hire him. After that, Hank was nothing more than a source for terrible jokes. But now that Bess has come around, he's decided it's time to get his life in order. This leads to an arduous makeover series of Goals that leaves Hank looking like a new (and creepy) man. More importantly, Hank was the first interactive NPC--clicking his avatar on homestead allowed him to tell jokes. Too bad his jokes didn't get a makeover.
Bess
Bess:
A recent addition to FrontierVille, Bess is Frontier Jack's niece from the East. Arriving on the homestead after dumping her boyfriend, Bess asks if she can crash at your place ... indefinitely. After a series of Goals solidifies her position as "the help," Bess becomes another interactive NPC. Much like your visiting Neighbors, Bess can help out every once in a while without effecting your Energy reserves.
Jacques
Jacques:
This foreign fellow is the newest character to hit the frontier. Jacques appears as part of the Trading Post Goals, and once they're complete decides to run the business himself. A world explorer and expert trapper and trader, Jacques will accept your defunct Holiday items and the like for coins. He's yet to be involved in the story too heavily, but we can wait.
[Source: FrontierVille Wiki]
Check out the rest of our FrontierVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Which character is your favorite in FrontierVille? How would you like to see these characters' stories be fleshed out in the future?
Frontier Jack
Frontier Jack:
How could we start this guide any other way? He's the first fellow you meet in the game. Generally, this bearded pioneer guides you through your first tasks in FrontierVille and comes back every once in a while when a new feature crops up. However, he has become more involved in the game's storyline as time has passed. In fact, his own niece has arrived in the game, but more on that later. More importantly, he's your first neighbor. (He also has a thing for inundating you with pop ups.)
Humble Bob
Humble Bob:
Now, this one is a strange character. While Bob does offer a few quests like the recent New Years Resolution Goals, he's also the game's resident salesman. It's Humble Bob that attempts to sell you Horseshoes incessantly at 20, 30 and 40 percent discounts. Bob likes to get in on the fun too, as many of you saw after completing the New Years Party Goals.
Ms Fanny Wildcat
Miss Fanny Wildcat:
Likely the toughest-looking teacher you've ever seen, Fanny Wildcat runs the Schoolhouse and all of its Goals. There are several Goals in preparation for her arrival and thereafter. However, there seems to be love triangle rising between Hank, Bess and herself. Perhaps this year's Valentine's Day Goals will see the result of that.
Hank
Hank:
This simple-minded guy runs the General Store after a few Goals are completed to hire him. After that, Hank was nothing more than a source for terrible jokes. But now that Bess has come around, he's decided it's time to get his life in order. This leads to an arduous makeover series of Goals that leaves Hank looking like a new (and creepy) man. More importantly, Hank was the first interactive NPC--clicking his avatar on homestead allowed him to tell jokes. Too bad his jokes didn't get a makeover.
Bess
Bess:
A recent addition to FrontierVille, Bess is Frontier Jack's niece from the East. Arriving on the homestead after dumping her boyfriend, Bess asks if she can crash at your place ... indefinitely. After a series of Goals solidifies her position as "the help," Bess becomes another interactive NPC. Much like your visiting Neighbors, Bess can help out every once in a while without effecting your Energy reserves.
Jacques
Jacques:
This foreign fellow is the newest character to hit the frontier. Jacques appears as part of the Trading Post Goals, and once they're complete decides to run the business himself. A world explorer and expert trapper and trader, Jacques will accept your defunct Holiday items and the like for coins. He's yet to be involved in the story too heavily, but we can wait.
[Source: FrontierVille Wiki]
Check out the rest of our FrontierVille Cheats & Tips right here.
Which character is your favorite in FrontierVille? How would you like to see these characters' stories be fleshed out in the future?
Test out social games discovery service TeePee Games to win an iPad
Well, at least you'll have a chance at an Apple iPad. TeePee Games, the upcoming London, UK-based games discovery service is offering every beta applicant an entry to win a coveted iPad just for signing up. TeePee Games is looking for at least 20 thousand beta testers by the end of Feb. to try out the service, which hopes to revive the spirit of discovery Facebook once had for its games.
The service recommends social, casual and mobile games based off the games you're already playing. Think of it as Apple's Genius feature for iTunes, but for your social games. TeePee Games aims to become "the only destination for finding and playing a huge range of games across the most modern of gaming channels; social networks, smart phones and the web," according to the company. Tony Pearce, co-founder and CEO of TeePee Games, had this to say of the beta program:
It's highly encouraging to see so many people signing up, especially given that we only launched the registration at the beginning of February and have yet to kick-start our marketing campaign for the full launch in March. This confirms the market need for the unique service we've designed, but even so, the extraordinary level of interest we've generated has been a real surprise.
With rumors abound that Facebook is looking to enhance the gaming experience on the platform, TeePee Games will likely have to fight with the very reason it started in the first place. Either way, we'll see soon enough whether this interest was in the TeePee Games service or the Apple iPad.
Would you be interested in playing your social games through another service if it meant an easier way to discover new games? How do you think Facebook should handle the problem?
The service recommends social, casual and mobile games based off the games you're already playing. Think of it as Apple's Genius feature for iTunes, but for your social games. TeePee Games aims to become "the only destination for finding and playing a huge range of games across the most modern of gaming channels; social networks, smart phones and the web," according to the company. Tony Pearce, co-founder and CEO of TeePee Games, had this to say of the beta program:
It's highly encouraging to see so many people signing up, especially given that we only launched the registration at the beginning of February and have yet to kick-start our marketing campaign for the full launch in March. This confirms the market need for the unique service we've designed, but even so, the extraordinary level of interest we've generated has been a real surprise.
With rumors abound that Facebook is looking to enhance the gaming experience on the platform, TeePee Games will likely have to fight with the very reason it started in the first place. Either way, we'll see soon enough whether this interest was in the TeePee Games service or the Apple iPad.
Would you be interested in playing your social games through another service if it meant an easier way to discover new games? How do you think Facebook should handle the problem?
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